A Harlem Wedding

by Tiffany L. Warren

From The Unexpected Diva author Tiffany Warren—a dishy and dramatic novel of the Harlem Renaissance and its most famous Black debutante, Yolande Du Bois, daughter of W.E.B. Du Bois, whose spectacular wedding to poet Countee Cullen was the society event of the year...even though the bride and groom were not-so-secretly in love with other people.

A century ago, Harlem’s glittering social scene had a single Yolande Du Bois, the only child of N.A.A.C.P. icon W.E.B. Du Bois. Yolande was bold, vivacious, and beloved of every gossip columnist. A true daddy’s girl, Yolande followed her father’s advice on from where she went to college (Fisk—Papa’s alma mater) to which sorority she joined (Delta Sigma Theta). But in matters of the heart, Yolande and her father did not agree. Dr. Du Bois himself curated a string of handsome suitors from the “Talented Tenth” for her, but Yolande’s true love was jazz musician Jimmie Lunceford, son of a working-class family from far-off Denver, Colorado. Their romance was an open secret, and more than a little scandalous.

Despite it all, Yolande wound up marrying her father’s famed poet Countee Cullen. Their lavish uptown wedding was the hottest social ticket of 1928. With three thousand attendees, sixteen bridesmaids, and Langston Hughes as a groomsman, it was truly a sight to behold.

But, immediately after the wedding, Yolande’s carefully constructed fairy tale begins to crumble. Torn between the expectations of her father and society and her heart’s true desire, Yolande is forced to decide whether she must leave Harlem to create a more authentic life on her own terms.

A Harlem Wedding is a heady read about love, notoriety, Black excellence, deception, and the très chic lifestyles of the Black elite, from speakeasies of Harlem and the green fields of Fisk University, all the way to Le Grand Duc in Paris.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Historical, African American, Fiction

416 pages, Paperback

Expected publication May 12, 2026

About the author

Tiffany L. Warren began her writing career in 2003 when she signed with Walk Worthy Press to publish her debut, What a Sista Should Do. She has gone on to publish over thirty full-length novels (eleven under pen name Nikki Carter) with Hachette Book Group and Kensington Books (Dafina). Tiffany has also independently published seven novellas.

In addition to writing books, Tiffany has a love for theatre, especially musicals. She has used her songwriting talent to write and produce several stage plays: What a Sista Should Do, The Replacement Wife and Just Like Yo’ Daddy, which featured many familiar faces like the late Tommy Ford (Martin), Grammy winning Shirley Murdock, Terri J. Vaughn (The Steve Harvey Show) and Christian Keyes to name a few.

Tiffany’s latest venture has been in the film realm with book to film projects. Her 2015 release, The Favorite Son, is now a movie produced by Swirl Films streaming on BET+ and airing on BET, starring Rotimi and Grammy winning gospel superstar Jonathan McReynolds. Her second film project is a holiday adaptation of The Replacement Wife called Sound of Christmas starring R&B stars Ne-Yo and Serayah. Both her films ranked number one on the BET+ streaming platform at the time of their release being produced by MegaMind Media. Currently in production is a holiday sequel to Favorite Son called A Favorite Son Christmas.

Tiffany’s latest project is a historical fiction novel, about the first black prima donna Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield. Published by William Morrow, the novel entitled A Swan’s Song hits shelves in Spring 2024. You can reach Tiffany on Facebook (@AuthorTiffanyLWarren), Twitter, Instagram, and Clubhouse (@tiffanylwarren), and online at www.tiffanylwarren.com.

Reviews

[KaylaTRBG · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Harlem Wedding details the love life of Yolande DuBois, daughter of civil rights icon WEB DuBois. Warren does a great job humanizing and detailing Yolande’s life from teenage years to adulthood, making her relatable. I feel like the book would’ve benefited for multiple POVs or substantially more detail around her engagement and marriage to Countee Cullen. The wedding felt rushed, as the book is entitled after that life altering event. I ultimately enjoyed her story, as it’s largely unknown, but the title should definitely reflect the totality of the book.

[Malika Lester · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Harlem Wedding by Tiffany L. Warren – A Rich, Messy, and Unforgettable Story

Historical fiction has truly become one of my favorite genres, and A Harlem Wedding has only deepened my love for it. This was my first book by Tiffany L. Warren, and it definitely will not be my last!

This novel follows Yolande Du Bois, the daughter of the legendary W.E.B. Du Bois, and what unfolds is a story that is equal parts glamorous, complicated, messy, and absolutely juicy. Warren does an incredible job bringing the Harlem Renaissance to life the culture, the politics, the tension within the Black elite, and the weight of expectations placed on a young woman growing up in the shadow of greatness.

Yolande’s story felt intimate and layered. Being the daughter of such a towering historical figure comes with privilege, but also immense pressure. The exploration of love, marriage, social status, family expectations, and personal identity was handled with depth and emotional honesty. The drama was real, the stakes felt high, and I found myself completely invested in every decision she made even when I wanted to shake her!

What I loved most was how the book blended historical detail with compelling storytelling. The setting of 1920s Harlem felt vibrant and alive, making the world of the novel immersive and authentic. It wasn’t just a romance it was a powerful look at class, reputation, and the sacrifices people make to protect their legacy.

So good. So messy. So rich in history and emotion.

If you love historical fiction with drama, complex characters, and a deep dive into the Harlem Renaissance era, A Harlem Wedding is a must-read. Five stars without hesitation!

[LaCricia A'ngelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have not found a book by Tiffany L. Warren that I didn’t love. A Harlem Wedding keeps the tradition alive.

Prior to reading this story I had no real knowledge of Yolande Du Bois. With expert storytelling the author made me feel as though I knew her personally. I felt sad for Yolande and the burden placed on her by her father to marry a man that was suitable for him despite her heart’s desire to marry another man. This story kept me locked in from start to finish. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction or not, this book is a must read.

Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow for the opportunity to read this ARC.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC & ALC Review
📚 Book Title: A Harlem Wedding
✍🏽Author: Tiffany L. Warren
🎙️Narrator: Karen Chilton
📕 Format: 📱& 🎧
⭐️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🕑Quick Take:
A Harlem Wedding is a dramatic and perfectly messy novel that follows the coming-of-age princess of the Harlem Renaissance, Yolande Du Bois, daughter of W.E.B. Du Bois, president of the N.A.A.C.P. Yolande was often the center of gossip and scandal from her college years at Fisk to her travels and studies abroad. People wanted to know who she was dating and what she was doing, up until her marriage to renowned poet Countee Cullen. Their spectacular wedding became the social event of the year!

✨ Themes:
- Black Debutant
- Harlem Renaissance
- N.A.A.C.P. Icon’s Daughter
- Society Wedding of the Year

🎭 Narration:
Karen Chilton did a phenomenal job narrating this novel. I felt like I was listening to Yolande’s innermost thoughts and feelings. Her delivery for the other characters was also amazing, bringing them to life. Overall, her performance was outstanding.

💭Final Thoughts:
I enjoyed this novel and audiobook; it was engaging from start to finish. The story was messy and full of drama, but I felt deeply empathetic towards Yolande. I was particularly moved by her unrequited love for Jimmy, which made it a gut-wrenching and heartbreaking tale. It also tells of a daughter yearning to be worthy of her father’s love and grappling with the social pressure and legacy of public figures.

Thanks to Harper Collins Publishers for the ARC and Harper Audio for the ALC!

[Rochelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a lover of historical fiction, I’m always impressed when a novel sends me down a research rabbit hole and A Harlem Wedding did exactly that.

Centered on Yolande Du Bois, daughter of the legendary W.E.B. Du Bois, the story offers a fascinating look at the pressures, privilege, and expectations placed on Black women of the elite during the Harlem Renaissance.

Yolande is an interesting but often frustrating character. She is intelligent, educated, and occasionally rebellious, yet she struggles to act on her own convictions. Her deep desire for her father’s approval and her sheltered upbringing made her come across as emotionally naive, which added to my frustration with her. That said, it’s easy for me in judge her by 2026 standards, but her flaws highlighted how restrictive and damaging the expectations placed on women, especially women of her status, were during this time.

While the title infers that this novel is about “the wedding”; the wedding itself only appears in the last quarter of the book. More than the title suggests, the journey leading up to and what happens after, provides historical context and insight into Yolande’s inner conflicts. The wedding was the least fascinating thing about the book.

Overall, this is a compelling read that brings a lesser known historical figure to life and offers a nuanced portrayal of a young woman constrained by, societal pressures, her father’s machinations and those who loved him.

Thanks to William Morrow & Harper Audio and NetGalley for the advanced listener copy in return for my honest review.

[Bryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Releases 05.12.2026 💍 Thanks NetGalley & William Morrow for the eARC.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
What an amazing story. That just transport you back in time. I literally have no notes.

Amazing story telling.
Beautiful complex characters.
Forbidden love.

For lovers of RaShonda Tate’ “With Love from Harlem” and of historical fiction/romance.

I honestly went into this story blind but boy did it knock me off my feet. I was gripped to this story from the start. The characters were rich and fully developed complicated beings.

The history and times in which the story took place are tough but they help shape the empathy for all the parties involved. To me it felt like a Shakespearean tragedy. I laughed, I was swept off my feet, I cried. Just an amazingly well researched fictional narrative.

[Jessica Lamb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Yolande’s story. I found myself googling some things while reading to try to see what was fact or fiction. A very fascinating story that I would love to see a movie or series about if done right. Tiffany’s writing really helped capture the feel and spirit of Harlem during that time. Definitely need to check out more of her works. I will say that the other reviews are correct about the wedding being towards the end of the book. But I enjoyed the storytelling throughout.

[Love BookReviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I took my time reading this book because I wanted to savor every detail about Yolande Du Bois who I previously had no knowledge of. After reading, I immediately went to the internet to search a lot of the characters mentioned in the book. There’s just something about the Harlem Renaissance era that pulls me in as it is rich with so much profound history, but also enough mess to let us know how human these individuals were.

Yolande walked in the shadow of her father and needed his approval in everything because he was such an authoritarian father, which had an impact on all of her decisions even into adulthood. It was as if she was living for him and not for herself, which ultimately shaped the direction of her life. I just wanted her to get a happy ending!

The book is slow paced and has some repetition that may make readers feel like the story is being dragged; however, it gave me depth and connection to these characters.

The wedding does take place around 80% in, so that is possibly the only con (along with the slow pacing).

I loved some characters, couldn’t stand some others, but overall this was a great read and kept my attention!

Thanks Netgalley for this ARC!

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Harlem Wedding was an overall decent read; however, the title is somewhat misleading, as the wedding itself does not occur until nearly 80% of the book has passed. While the novel is centered on Yolande Du Bois, the daughter of W. E. B. Du Bois, much of the narrative focuses on her relationship with Jimmy Lunceford, which occupies the majority of the story. As a result, the book places greater emphasis on this romantic relationship than on the anticipated wedding suggested by the title.

[AshleeInPages · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. As difficult as it is to say this, I am not a fan of this book. It’s my first read by this author so I am not sure if this is her usual writing style. The lack of character growth for the characters overshadows the beauty that could have been the portrayal of the Harlem Renaissance. In thinking of all the characters, they are all the same from beginning to end. While I know a lot of research went into the writing of the story, it almost reads as a salacious story of a few well known names during the time. Also, the wedding is such a small part of the overall story that the title feels a little misleading.

The main character, Yolande, comes off as a spoiled brat that has been sheltered for far too long. I understood her behavior at the start of the book but as time went on, I was hoping there would be a shift of some kind but nothing happened. Even into adulthood, she remained spoiled, naive and searching for her Father’s approval by allowing him to control her life. It was a little disappointing that it wasn’t until the end of the story when we started to see a little character growth for Yolande.

This book starts off great but I feel like it falls flat and went on for too long. This story could have been condensed considerably.

[Maliika Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciated the chance to dive into Yolande Du Bois’s world in A Harlem Wedding. It’s an interesting look at a young woman trying to navigate life under the massive shadow of Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois. However, I observed that Yolande often comes across as quite spoiled, appearing to play the victim and blaming her parents for her own refusal to choose the love of her life.

The book could have been significantly shorter since the middle sections tend to drag. I would have preferred if that space was used to provide more vivid details of 1920s Harlem life rather than focusing so much on Yolande’s passivity. The pacing felt uneven, especially with the ending and the actual wedding feeling rushed after such a long buildup.

Overall, it’s a revealing portrait of someone who struggled to claim her own autonomy despite her elite status. It offers a unique perspective on the era, even if the protagonist’s lack of growth was frustrating at times. Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for the early copy

[Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story pulled me ALL the way in.

A Harlem Wedding had me completely invested. The storytelling was so immersive, I found myself doing my own research, looking up the real people behind the characters just to connect even deeper.

Yolande stood out as such a powerful and talented woman during the Harlem Renaissance. I really felt her struggle trying to live up to the expectations of her father, W. E. B. Du Bois, while also navigating her own desires and identity. The pressure he placed on her was heavy, especially coming from a man who had his own flaws and contradictions.

The tension between duty, love, and independence was written so well, and it made her story feel real and emotional.

I highly recommend this book. Tiffany L. Warren clearly did her research and brought Yolande’s story to life in a way that stays with you!

[Bossmanaries Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone knows that a wedding ceremony only lasts about 20 minutes, the story always is bigger than the festivities yet it’s in getting to the altar and the aftermath. Here we have a Harlem Renaissance period piece where the only child of WEB DuBois, his daughter Yolanda has to live within the world of her overachieving, overbearing and overly pompous father. Can she become her own woman or will she consistently follow the path that her father lays for her?

Yolanda is a byproduct of black excellence and upper black society. She has to handle the misogynistic life for a black woman as well as the infamous WEB DuBois’ daughter. It is smothering to see a woman live for others and not follow her own passions and the main character yet comes off as a spoiled rotten child instead of a college educated woman. You will consistently waiver between her love for two men, her lover and her father. There is some spice in this book.

This was a good historical fiction and I am graciously thankful to for allowing me to read this beautiful story in advanced of being published. Thank you William Morrow #williammorrow for providing this book for review consideration via #netgalley.

In the future, I would love to attend an author event by Tiffany L. Warren. I’m recommending this book to other historical fiction lovers and Harlem Renaissance fans.

Rating: 4.25 stars

#AHarlemWedding #NetGalley.

[India Jones-Tanner · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of A Harlem Wedding in exchange for an honest review.

A Harlem Wedding follows Yolande Du Bois, the cherished “rainbow baby” of civil rights intellectual W. E. B. Du Bois and Nina Du Bois. From the beginning, Yolande’s life is shaped by the expectations that come with her famous father’s name. The story opens with a relatable moment—Yolande worrying about not having a date to the Promenade—but quickly pivots when she meets the charming and talented Jimmie Lunceford after sneaking out with friends. Yolande is immediately convinced he will be her Jimmie.

The problem? Her father will never approve.

As Yolande continues her studies at Fisk University, fate places Jimmie back in her orbit. Their relationship deepens, but it doesn’t come without complications. Social pressures, family expectations, and romantic rivalry—particularly from Yolande’s nemesis Chrystal Tulli—create tension that follows Yolande throughout her college years. Determined to prove her love is worthy, Yolande struggles to balance honoring her father’s legacy while carving out a life of her own.

Along the way, Yolande develops a meaningful friendship with rising poet Countee Cullen, whose presence introduces another layer of emotional complexity and sparks friction between Yolande and Jimmie. The novel explores the emotional cost of living under the shadow of greatness while longing for independence and love.

While the historical setting and real-life figures add richness to the story, the pacing felt uneven. A significant portion of the novel lingers on the early development of Yolande and Jimmie’s relationship, which at times feels overly drawn out. Ironically, when the story reaches the dramatic events surrounding the infamous Harlem wedding, the aftermath is handled too quickly. The emotional fallout and consequences deserved more space and closure.

Still, the novel offers an intriguing glimpse into the personal life of a woman often remembered only through the lens of her father’s legacy. Yolande emerges as a young woman caught between love, reputation, and the desire to live life on her own terms.

Overall, A Harlem Wedding is an interesting historical portrait that highlights the tension between family legacy and personal freedom, though a more balanced pacing—especially around the climactic events—would have made the story even more satisfying.

[K · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

A Harlem Wedding follows Yolande Du Bois, daughter of the legendary W.E.B Du Bois, as she navigates the transition from senior year of high school to adulthood. The heart of the story is her forbidden romance with Jimmie Lunceford, a love that is constantly overshadowed by her desperate need for her father’s approval.

This story painted W.E.B Du Bois in such a bad light. He was extremely critical of Yolande, constantly preaching about ’The Talented Tenth,’ rather than allowing his family to simply exists and enjoy their accomplishments and milestones.

“My father is Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois. I should have known better. He cannot be in front of a crowd without somehow reminding them of the struggles of every colored person. Even when I’m supposed to feel joyful, the oppression of my people must be at the front of my mind when Papa is nearby.”

The reveal of her father’s extramarital affairs, specifically with Jessie Redmon Fauset, made his rigid expectations for Yolande feel even more infuriating. It was fascinating and frustrating to see how Yolande leaned toward Jessie, who often seemed to have a closer ear than Yolande’s own mother.

“Well, I am not entirely sure Miss Fauset wants a husband of her own.”

The most infuriating moment comes when Yolande finally gives in to her fathers pressure and marries Countee Cullen, only to discover he is gay. After years of him chasing her and interfering with her relationship with Jimmie, this felt like the ultimate betrayal.

“I’ve spent my entire life trying to please him. Everything I’ve done, every choice I’ve made has been with the goal of somehow trying to get his approval. And still, it hasn’t been enough! Why did I even try? I could have had the man I love — the man who loved me back — if I hadn’t been so desperate for Papa’s approval.”

For a book titled A Harlem Wedding, the ceremony doesn’t take place until the 80% mark, making the buildup feel long and the payoff disappointing.

I felt so much empathy for Yolande, she deserved so much better. She lived her life trying to please everyone but herself. Her final realization is a gut punch:

“Maybe if you hadn’t made greatness a condition of your love,” I say quietly, “I would have chosen to love myself sooner.”

Received courtesy of NetGalley.

[RedCupBookClub · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Harlem Wedding is a novel about little known historical figure, Yolande DuBois; the daughter of the great thinker, philosopher, activist and intellectual, Dr. W.E.B. DuBois. I went into this book thinking that I was going to get the salacious story of Yolande DuBois being forced to marry famous poet Countee Cullen; and that story was explored, but the story that Tiffany L. Warren played out was so much more than that.

Warren has written a deeply researched and historically accurate novel that provides an intimate look into the life of a famous woman on the periphery of the Harlem Renaissance, but one that we know very little about. Warren did a phenomenal job of making the Yolande’s story, when it would have been so easy to center it around the more well known figures. I imagine that it would have been easy enough to lean into the drama and gossip surrounding the marriage of Yolande DuBois and Countee Cullen, but instead, Warren allows Yolande to tell her story in all of its fullness. Well known figures do show up in the story; and how could they not when talking about Harlem in the 1920’s, but we see them through Yolande’s lens. Even Dr. W.E.B. DuBois’ infamy only really comes up in the context of him being Yolande’s famous, overbearing and (possibly) narcissistic father. His exploits are mentioned simply to frame Yolande’s experience. Harlem is its own character in this story, but again we see it through the eyes of a sheltered teenager and young adult who comes from money and access.

This book is ultimately a story about the coming of age of Yolande DuBois, but it is also the tragic love story. It is a tale as old as time, where you have a young woman, the man she loves and the myriad social, economic and familial barriers to them finding the magic of forever. For Yolande, that man was Jimmy “Piggy” Lunceford. While following the ups and downs of Yolande and Jimmy’s romance, we also have the opportunity to explore the societal pressures that women faced during that time. We find out that even money and access could not save Yolande from almost being crushed by the weight of expectations.

This book is fantastic. It was also heartbreaking and eye opening. Anyone interested in lesser known historical figures, the Harlem Renaissance, or simply enjoy stories about ill fated romance, I would encourage them to pick this one up.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

[Chalon J · Rating 4 out of 5]

An advance copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher.

Thought-provoking and full of historical tea, A Harlem Wedding by Tiffany L. Warren sheds light on the challenges of living up to impossible standards. Centering on the life and loves of Yolande Du Bois, daughter of W.E.B. Du Bois, you are thrust into her world as she finishes high school, goes to college, and is expected to marry well and help increase the population of the Black elite by having children, without any consideration to her dreams and wishes.

Warren explores the tension between Yolande's desires and the expectations placed on her by her father and society with care, and you can't help but feel for Yolande and the difficult choices she is forced to make. I loved how there are messy moments of her just trying to figure out her place in the world and charting her own path. Warren adds depth and humor to her story, showcasing her as an imperfect, slightly boy-crazy young woman, and I loved following along on her exploits as she tries to be seen as worthy outside of her father's shadow.

Woven through Yolande's story is the vibrant environment of the Harlem Renaissance and 1920s college life, which will keep you turning the pages. Notable members of Black society make appearances, and you will feel pulled back to that era's music, fashion, and sensibilities as Yolande falls in and out of love. The chapters of her life at Fisk University were especially delightful and will keep you captivated as Yolande navigates newfound independence and an unexpected rivalry that continues into adulthood. Before reading this book, I didn't know much about Yolande, and her journey to creating the life she wants resonated deeply with me.

🎧 Audiobook Commentary:
Narrated by Karen Chilton, the audiobook fully immerses you into Yolande's world, and you will not want to pause. Chilton's performance underscores the varying emotions and actions presented in Warren's prose, and you will feel like you are walking alongside Yolande as she grows over the course of the novel. You can grasp that she was just a woman looking for acceptance for who she was outside of her father, and gain a deeper appreciation for her choices.

✨ If you are looking to unpack the messy and complex life of a hidden figure, A Harlem Wedding should be on your reading list!

[Vonetta Evans · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC Review

I didn't know much about Yolande or W.E.B. DuBois life prior to reading this book but what I did learn I didn't like, especially about W.E.B. DuBois. He was very controlling as a father and his ideology of what a woman was supposed to be was ridiculous. He just wanted to marry her off so that she could have children and keep his legacy going. Granted, this may still be the thought of some people in today's society but I still don't like it.

When it came to Yolande, although she wanted to stand out on her own and get her career going before she even thought about marriage she still very much wanted to please her father. When she met Jimmie she knew that he was the "one" for her and they really did love each other but he just wasn't good enough for her father. even as they got older and graduated from college she tried to show W.E.B. DuBois all of Jimmie's success but he wasn't trying to hear it. He kept throwing other men in her path who he felt were better suited to "care" for her than Jimmie which I didn't appreciate because I liked Yolande and Jimmie together; that being said, there were times where I felt Yolande was toying with his emotions.

The wedding itself was more for W.E.B. than it was for Yolande and I was annoyed that she didn't stick to what she wanted to do and was going along with her father's plans for her. I was also upset with her mother for not sharing the information she did with her sooner because it could have been a different outcome. At the end of the day, with the wedding and everything that transpired afterwards and revelations that came about I found myself asking was it all worth it in the end for Yolande.

After reading the Author's Note I was sad to learn that most of what was written in the book was true based on the research that was done but there were some happier times with W.E.B. DuBois and Yolande mentioned where I wondered why the author chose not to include that side of him in the book to kind of even out his character. Also, I understand this is a historical fiction book but I was hoping there would have been a different outcome for Yolande. Overall, I thought the book was okay but I was annoyed with almost all the characters and their actions in the story. Thank you to William Morrow for the ARC for me to provide my honest review.

[Roslyn Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of A Harlem Wedding by Tiffany Warren from NetGalley, and I adored every page. I recently read Queen of Sugar Hill by ReShonda Tate, her Hattie McDaniel inspired novel and loved it, so diving into another glamorous, character rich story set around iconic Black history made this book hit even harder. It felt like the perfect companion read, and it made me appreciate A Harlem Wedding even more. Tiffany Warren brings the Harlem Renaissance to life with so much sparkle and emotional depth. At the center is Yolande Du Bois, daughter of the legendary W.E.B. Du Bois, and the author paints her as bold, charming, complicated, and very much the princess of Harlem’s social scene. Yolande is used to being adored and talked about, but she’s also a young woman trying to carve out her own identity under the weight of her father’s expectations. And those expectations are intense. W.E.B. Du Bois has a very specific vision for his daughter’s future, including hand‑selecting suitors from the “Talented Tenth.” But Yolande’s heart belongs to Jimmie Lunceford, a jazz musician whose working‑class background makes him completely unacceptable in her father’s eyes. Their romance is tender, messy, and more than a little scandalous. Which brings us to the wedding. Her marriage to poet Countee Cullen becomes the society event of the year, glamorous, extravagant, and dripping with prestige. But Warren never lets you forget the truth simmering underneath: both Yolande and Countee are in love with other people. The tension, the heartbreak, the spectacle it’s all so deliciously dramatic. What I loved most is how Warren balances the glittering world of the Harlem Renaissance with the emotional realities of these characters. The book explores duty, desire, family pressure, and the cost of choosing (or not choosing) your own path. It’s dramatic in the best way, but also deeply human.
The writing is warm, immersive, and full of life. I devoured this one. If you love historical fiction with romance, scandal, and unforgettable characters and especially if you enjoyed Queen of Sugar Hill A Harlem Wedding is a must‑read. Tiffany Warren absolutely delivers. #NETGALLEY #AHARLEMWEDDING

[Felicia Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I don’t want to be labeled as Dr. Du Bois’s spinster daughter, nor do I want a life of struggle."

Sometimes the very things we try hardest to avoid have a way of finding us anyway.

There was a lot that I enjoyed about A Harlem Wedding. The setting during the Harlem Renaissance created a rich backdrop, and I appreciated the nods to literary greats like Jessie Redmon Fauset, Zora Neale Hurston, and Langston Hughes. After recently reading other books set in this era, it was refreshing to experience a different perspective on the time period and the people who shaped it.

Yolande grows up in a life of privilege and visibility as the daughter of W. E. B. Du Bois. Throughout the novel, she wrestles with a question many women face: what kind of life will she choose for herself? She must decide between embracing the freedom her education and upbringing have afforded her or settling into a more traditional role that aligns with her father’s expectations and legacy. The tension between honoring her father’s ideals and protecting her own identity is one of the most compelling threads in the story.

At times, I found myself a little impatient with Yolande as she tried to balance her love for Jimmie with her father’s wishes. She held Jimmie to very high expectations, yet often struggled to extend the same grace and understanding that she wanted from him.

Her friendship with Countee was another interesting dynamic. It was clear that their connection ran deep and that his feelings for her went beyond friendship. I initially wondered why he remained so present in her life despite her lack of romantic interest, but as the story unfolded, the reasons became clearer.I knew that the marriage to Countee was doomed, but I wasn't expecting it to go down like that.

That said, I did wish the story had explored a bit more. I wanted greater insight into the breakdown of the relationship and more detail about what happened after the wedding.

Overall, I enjoyed how the author brought this piece of history to life and centered a story around a woman navigating love, identity, and expectation in such a fascinating cultural moment.

Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book.

[Lena · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I will only be concerned with the advancement of one colored person. Me."

If you are looking for a historical fiction novel that is as educational as it is emotionally gripping, A Harlem Wedding is a masterpiece. I have long been intrigued by the life of W.E.B. DuBois, and Tiffany L. Warren has crafted a timely, vivid exploration of his inner circle that I couldn't put down.

While the title suggests a singular event, the story is actually a profound coming-of-age journey for his only daughter, Yolande Nina DuBois. In many ways, the "wedding" is the shadow that hangs over her entire life. We see how W.E.B. DuBois meticulously groomed her to be the face of the "Talented Tenth," treating her future marriage as the ultimate vessel to secure his legacy.

The heart of the story lies in: 1) The father-daughter dynamic: The book brilliantly juxtaposes DuBois' domineering expectations for his daughter against his own personal hypocrisies. His "philandering ways" make him hyper-critical of the men Yolande is attracted to, creating a strained, difficult, and fascinating relationship; 2) Yolande's fight for autonomy: The real tension lies in Yolande’s evolution. We watch her struggle to advocate for her own desires while trying to gain her father's approval in the midst of his psychological control; and 3) a "who’s who" of the Harlem Renaissance: The historical immersion is top-tier. I loved seeing key figures like Countee Cullen and Langston Hughes walk across the pages, making the era feel alive and urgent.

The narrative keeps you gripped because you aren't just wondering who she will marry; you’re wondering if she will choose a man her father accepts, or if she will finally stop caring about his approval altogether.

This book deepened my love for historical fiction and offered a unique window into the pressures of Black excellence during the Harlem Renaissance. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to see the human side of history’s icons.

Thank you for the eARC, NetGalley!

[INW · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks, Netgalley for the advanced readers copy. Unfortunately it's wasn't a great read for me.
While the Harlem Renaissance is a period ripe with drama and complexity, Tiffany L. Warren’s A Harlem Wedding unfortunately fails to capture the spark. Despite its title, the book is less about a wedding and more a long, drawn out exploration of a "spoiled" young woman struggling under the shadow of her famous father. The book was ultimately disappointing, feeling both overly fictionalized and strangely hollow.
The most glaring issue with the novel is its structure. The story spends nearly 50 chapters on a romance with Jimmy "Piggy" Lunceford that eventually fizzles out, leaving the reader feeling like their time was wasted. The main event, the relationship with Countee Cullen, could have been condensed into a fraction of the book. In fact, the story would have been far more effective if it had been streamlined into a few tight chapters.
While the novel attempts to humanize Yolande DuBois, she often comes across as an uninteresting protagonist, a "rich girl" of the Renaissance whose search for purpose feels stagnant. The depiction of W.E.B. DuBois as a cold, distant figure focused solely on the "Talented Tenth" adds some tension, but it isn't enough to save the narrative. By the time the wedding finally arrives at the very end of the book, it feels rushed and detached. Because the details were negotiated between her father and her hubby to be, Yolande is a bystander in her own story. This passivity, combined with an overly fictionalized approach that strips the era of its organic excitement, makes the book feel flat and uninteresting.
A Harlem Wedding did not live up to the hype for me. It is a 67 chapter book that could have easily been a 5 chapter novella. If you are looking for a deep dive into the historical nuances of the DuBois family you may find this version too surface level and plodding to be truly engaging.

[Robin Pendleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Living life as the sole surviving offspring of the infamous W.E.B. Du Bois was an abundant blessing materially, while resonating as a tumultuous existence for Yolande Du Bois. In “A Harlem Wedding,” author Tiffany L. Warren regales with the antics of a rebellious daughter, while exploring the costs of being in the spotlight, even when trying to escape it. What Yolande lacked in the stereotypical belle of the ball category was overcome by her father’s clout. This book afforded an intimate diary of a young woman in early 20th century Harlem whose rite of passage included a longing to find favor with her own father. Average wouldn’t do in the eyes of the man who fathered the Talented Tenth ideology; focusing social activism on the top ten percent of intellectual Blacks.

The complexity of the father-daughter dynamics was matched only by the intensity of the revolt to expectations Yolande found in the arms of young jazz and church musician, Jimmie Lunceford. Regrettably, consummation of their love wasn’t enough to quelch the fear of her father’s rejection. Their passionate and desperate attempts to prove that love could conquer all elevated the pacing of this novel. It was easy to root for them, even when truth said otherwise.

Yolande’s marriage to Countee Cullen, a poet extraordinaire, and one of the Harlem Renaissance’s “Talented Tenth,” was more of a coup than an authentic friends to lovers romance. “A Harlem Wedding” resonates across time. Yolande and Countee learned that sacrificing being in love with someone else to fulfill legacy only leads to further deceit. Tiffany L. Warren rescued Yolande Du Bois from the shadows, gave her voice, and introduced her in an exciting, refreshing and memorable way.

Thank you, William Morrow, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Jazisunray Skillern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Harlem’s glittering social scene, in the 20s and 30s, had many stars, but only one princess: Yolande Du Bois. This captivating book brings Yolande’s remarkable story to vivid life, immersing readers in the glamour, ambition, and complications of the Harlem Renaissance.

The author paints Yolande as a dazzling figure—witty, bold, and fiercely devoted to her legendary father, W.E.B. Du Bois. Yet, beneath the surface, we see a young woman caught between the weighty expectations of family and society and the yearnings of her own heart. The tension between Yolande’s duty and desire is rendered with nuance and empathy, making her journey feel as urgent and relatable today as it was a century ago.

The book excels at conjuring the era’s electric atmosphere, from the hush of elite parlors to the exuberance of jazz-filled nights. The depiction of Yolande’s relationships—especially her secret romance with Jimmie Lunceford and her headline-making marriage to Countee Cullen—provides both high drama and genuine emotional depth. The wedding scene, with its parade of Harlem’s luminaries and the shadow of unspoken secrets, is especially unforgettable.

But what elevates this narrative is its exploration of identity, autonomy, and the courage to defy convention. As Yolande faces the unraveling of her fairy-tale life, readers are left breathless, rooting for her to claim her own destiny. This is biography at its best: intimate, illuminating, and impossible to put down. It’s a tribute to a woman who lived—and loved—on her own terms, and to the vibrant world that shaped her. It took me through all of the emotions, ultimately ending in sadness. Her dream of real love was cut short by her insecurities and her need to please her father. I highly recommend this book.

Thank you, Tiffany L. Warren, William Morrow Paperbacks, and NetGalley for this wonderful ARC.

[Quaterria Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Harlem Wedding by Tiffany L. Warren is a messy good time about the princess of Harlem, Yolande Du Bois. Her and her father could come to agreements on most things, but they were not on one accord when it came to her love life.

I could not imagine being in the daughter of W.E.B. Du Bois! Yolande was more focused on experiencing life and making and impact as a teacher instead of being in a rush to settled in marriage and having babies. Of course, Du Bois wanted his daughter to marry someone within Harlem’s elite, so Yolande reluctantly agrees to marry a Countee Cullen, man of her father’s choosing, despite being caught in a star-crossed romance with Jimmie Lunceford.

Ooohwheeee! Things really were scandalous and juicy as Warren crafts this story to be very entertaining, heartfelt, salacious, and filled with heartbreak while depicting the complications of love.

"Love is strange and messy."

Having read Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray, my experience with enjoying this novel was heightened. (IYKYK but you do not have to read Harlem Rhapsody first to have good time with this book.)

Karen Chilton narrates this novel flawlessly. I had a great time doing an immersive read and definitely suggest you doing the same.

As stated in the novel, the premise of this grand story begs these important questions: "Wouldn't you do whatever it took to be with your love? Or would you try to escape it?"


Well done Tiffany L. Warren!

Thank you to the publisher for the gifted finished copy and to Netgalley for the advanced listening copy.

4.5 stars rounded up

[Judith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had never read one of Tiffany Warren’s books before reading “A Harlem Wedding,” but since I have a fascination for the 1920’s in general and the Harlem Renaissance in particular, I decided to give this book a try. I’m so glad that I did.

The novel’s first person protagonist is Yolande Du Bois, the only child of W.E.B. Du Bois. It focuses on her coming of age as the daughter of a prominent Black leader during the cultural flourishing of the Harlem Renaissance and includes cameo appearances by such luminaries of the time as Langston Hughes, Nella Larson, Zora Neale Hurston and Jessie Fauset.

The book starts with Yolande’s graduation from high school in Brooklyn, her time as an undergraduate at Fisk University and her post graduate work at Columbia. It also focuses on both her love life and her social achievements, including her relationship with her long time love, jazz musician Jimmie Lunceford; her brief marriage to Countee Cullen; her leadership roles in multiple collegiate organizations, and her years as a teacher at a school in Baltimore. The characterizations are nuanced and multi-faceted, while the sparkling dialog creates an additional dimension to the vivid characterizations. The author has the gift of bringing both the characters and the time and place to life in such a way that the reader lives Yolande’s life alongside her.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the Harlem Renaissance and loves well-researched and well-crafted historical fiction. Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me an ARC of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[Dominique · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listen… A Harlem Wedding by Tiffany L. Warren was MESSY. And y’all already know I love a book that’s a little chaotic.

First of all, getting to see W. E. B. Du Bois in his father era?? Yeah… that was a lot. Sir was very much in his “I know what’s best for you” bag, and the way he was orchestrating Yolande’s life, including her love life, had me side eyeing him heavy. Like I get legacy and all that, but whew.

Now Yolande… girl. She worked my nerves a bit, I’m not even gonna lie. She was giving brat at times, BUT I also understood her. She wanted the man she actually loved and the life her father approved of. Basically trying to have her cake and eat it too....and we all know how that goes. Watching her try to juggle both had me stressed and entertained at the same time.

And the relationship drama?? Top tier mess. Because why are we getting married and both of y’all in love with other people?? Be serious. The tension, the secrets, the pressure of being that girl in Harlem society, it was all just building and building.

I will say, the setting really did it for me. The Harlem Renaissance backdrop, the Black elite, the glam, the expectations, it all felt rich and immersive. You could feel how much appearances and reputation mattered, which made every messy decision hit even harder.

Overall, this was a drama filled, character-driven read that kept me locked in. Even when Yolande was getting on my nerves, I couldn’t stop reading. If you love historical fiction with complicated characters, family pressure, and a whole lot of “girl why would you do that”… this is for you.

[Lindsay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yolande Du Bois is the only child of W.E.B. Du Bois, and she feels this in every single aspect of her life. Yolande goes along with every thing her father decides for her such as who she spends time with, where she goes to university, and what organizations she joins. The one time they clash: is when Yolande tries to follow her heart. Yolande met Jimmie Lunceford one day while attending church with her friend Maragaret. Jimmie, a jazz musician, does not fit the bill W.E.B. wants for his daughter, so throughout the years he tries to keep them apart.

This was such an excellent historical fiction novel and I think it pairs well if you read it before or after reading Harlem Rhapsody (by a different author). This story was so interesting because history is so heavily focused on W.E.B. For Yolande, a lot of award comes with having a famous father, but the pressure is just as hard. It was such a good novel exploring love, family expectations, black excellence, and self identity. It's a heart breaking tale and I really felt for Yolande at the end of the novel. Yolande was defintely frustrating at times though because while she was this wild, rebellious girl, she broke her own heart in order to get the approval and love of her father. It's funny the book is called Harlem Wedding because that was the least interesting part of the book. I loved the vivid imagery of Harlem in the 1920s.

Thanks Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review

Why did I read? i lived in harlem and love reading historical fiction about it. would i read again? for sure excellent historical fiction novel

[Shannaka · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book! Here are my thoughts and opinions…

Yolande rubbed me the wrong way at times because she seemed to be spoiled and entitled and oblivious to her poor decisions and how they led her to her current situation.

Yolande‘s father, W.E.B. DuBois, definitely gave controlling and “I’m going to live through my child“. It was totally unfair how he felt he had to manage Yolande’s life yet let his go off the rails. In a twisted thought process you could view it as him making sure Yolande’s life was blemish and error free because it was too late for him. It could’ve also been that he only had one living child so his contribution towards the Talented Tenth was fully on Yolande’s shoulders.

Yolande’s mom definitely should have spoken up more and picked a side. She gave me lukewarm and I don’t know how to feel about that.

Where was Jimmy’s parents?? I wish we knew more of his back story. I believe he had pure intentions with Yolande but once he settled (in my opinion) with Chrystal he should have stood on that decision and not toyed with the heartstrings of both her and Yolande.

Margaret was a real one.

Harold and Countee plotted on my girl from jump lol but Yolandae wasn’t easily swayed by the niceties and cute words. She stood on business about Jimmy and keeping Countee in the friend zone until she didn’t. 🙄

Miss Fauset knew better but she learned her lesson and moved accordingly. Sometimes cutting ties is the best decision no matter how it may hurt others.

Lastly, Brooklyn School for Girls can GTH!

Thank you Netgalley & William Morrow Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

[Shawberry Likes To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an ARC from Netgalley. I wasn't familiar with the story of Yolande although I know most are well aware of W.E.B. Du Bois. The title was a little confusing as I continued to read as I kept wondering about the Harlem Wedding. I must say that this novel showed Dr. Du Bois in a much different manner than I expected. Overly concerned with his daughter one day marrying and his career, not much love seemed present for his wife and his daughter's wishes. I did not expect him to be so controlling. In addition, Yolande was a little frustrating at times. Although most of the novel, centers around Yolande, the actual wedding happens much later in the book. The book includes mention of civil rights struggles, jazz, Harlem and black society and a whole lot of gossip. It shows just how much emphasis was placed on excelling and achievement for African Americans. In addition, the importance society placed on women in to ensure they maintained an elevated social image and status secured via marriage. Those around Yolande repeatedly vocalized and pushed their personal input on her life. Only to find out that many were liars, cheaters and very unhappy with the outcomes of their decisions. I hated how Jimmie was treated by Du Bois and the fact Yolande never truly stood up for their relationship out of fear. Despite much success in her academic life, she continued to seek the approval of her father. Unfortunately, things don't pan out well for Yolande in terms of love but she does still have a happiness in the form of little DuBois.