Lilies Bloom Lies Fester

by Elle Celyse Ferranna

All families are dysfunctional. In consequence, the distance between truth and fiction is marked and marred by habits of discretion, and birth order. But what happens when secrets coveted and shared by and between family, the persons worthy of trust, begin to weigh down perceptions and distort the space between truth and the context of the damage caused? The youngest of four, Adeena McGoine, is fiercely independent, resilient, and anxious as she travels cross country to visit her ailing oldest sister. What will she learn about family? Can Adeena truly go home again? When do collective efforts to protect the innocent become overshadowed by pretense? Will this trip forever change Adeena’s perception of the truth?

Paperback

Published December 10, 2022

About the author

It is said everyone has a voice. But not every voice is appreciated, and others are inoculated even when encouraged to lean in. My work derives from ancient parts of my being, the pieces that existed before corporate America and its many illusive dreams conformed my consciousness into a mass of recycled fallacies.

My work acknowledges the existence of the African Pantheon, specifically the Goddesses, and how each one embodies contemporary aspects of femineity. My work references ancestor veneration, and its popularity, despite being misunderstood.

My creative influences include Gordon Parks because of his ability to magnify pride in the face of dehumanizing circumstances; John-Michael Basquiat and his ability to weave and coalesce dichotomies; and Edwidge Danticat for her ability to advocate for the plight of immigrant women and the impact of family separations on immigrants.

I am inspired by the artistic synchronization of the Orishas, including cosmograms and vévé’s, Mardi Gras Indians, the natural world especially plants, flowers, and crystals, and tactile cultural expression, including clothing, and carved masks.

Reviews

[Elle Ferranna · Rating 5 out of 5]

All families are dysfunctional.

Consequently, the distance between truth and fiction is marked and marred by habits of discretion and birth order.

But what happens when secrets coveted and shared by and between family, the people worthy of trust, begin to weigh down perceptions and distort the space between truth and the context of the damage caused?

The youngest of four, Adeena McGoine, is fiercely independent, resilient, and anxious as she travels cross country to visit her ailing oldest sister.

What will she learn about family? Can Adeena truly go home again? When do collective efforts to protect the innocent become overshadowed by pretense? Will this trip forever change Adeena’s perception of the truth?

Lilies Bloom, Lies Fester is a contemporary novella about habits of discretion, birth order, and the damage caused by the secrets coveted and shared between family members.

Believe me, you want in on this secret!

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who knows and loves C. Elyse’s writing, I thought I was prepared for the lush, layered storytelling she’s known for, but Lilies Bloom, Lies Fester transcended even my expectations. I could not put this page-turner down. Her urban novella doesn’t just invite you into a story—it pulls you into an emotional citadel where family secrets, loyalty, and the messy truths of life unfold in gripping detail. Adeena, Taliah, and Celene are characters that feel achingly real, and their dialogue is sharp, raw, and unforgettable. C. Elyse has put it all out there for you in this story. No spoilers, but the emotional depth and tension will stay with you long after you turn the last page. This is more than just a narrative; it’s an experience of vulnerability and truth that you won’t want to miss.

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this novella. The characters and the secrets exposed were very relatable as every family has its drama. The drama definitely propelled the story. Amidst it all, the sisters maintained a tight, loving bond that proved to be stronger than the hardships they faced. This story is a definite must-read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.