Defying the Dark Code

by J.W. Jones

When two people dare to fall in love, it is happening when cultures collide, and the nation is torn apart. Complications, turmoil… just looming ahead.

In the center of this saga is ex-Captain John Wilson—a textile magnate, doing well for himself. But John's life unexpectedly intertwines with Thomas Cane, an astute tobacco baron. The tension escalates when John becomes drawn to Minnie, a slave girl, personal housekeeper to Marci, Cane's wife. Their love story unfurls against a perilous backdrop. They confront the harsh Black Code. That code defined an era, slavery, and oppression. It is fascinating how this romance and drama unfurls in a dystopian thriller, where the civil war never happened, and what it meant for their world as two countries emerge, co-dependent enemies.

377 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 3, 2025

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Reviews

[Kathryn Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely The Dark Code is an engaging and emotional read that pulls you in from the very first chapter. The writing is dynamic and immersive, adding powerful depth to key moments without slowing the pace. The characters are richly developed, and the relationships — especially the romantic connections and tense rivalries — are so vividly described, it feels as though you’re standing in the middle of the scene.
This story takes unexpected turns that keep you on the edge of your seat, and each twist adds meaning and complexity with full circle moment from seeds that were planted at the very beginning. It blends historical fiction, drama, and romance in a way that feels cinematic — like nothing I’ve read before. The author does an excellent job of building emotional tension while grounding it in richly detailed settings and realistic character motivations.
The emotional weight of each scene lingers long after the chapter ends. It is the kind of story that stays with you, pondering what may come next. I highly recommend for fans of historical fiction with heart and edge!