What do you think?
Rate this book
Runner
In this gripping, emotionally-layered novel set in Prohibition-era Martha’s Vineyard, a young woman from a Black seafaring family plunges into the dangerous world of rum-running to save her home and uncover the truth about her father’s death.
Martha’s Vineyard, 1923. The sea is a gift that keeps on giving to Lena Jameson’s father, Earl, a fisherman turned successful rumrunner who’s built up a small fortune smuggling liquor from offshore ships to thirsty customers back on the island. But when Earl and his entire crew are lost in a mysterious shipwreck that some whisper was no accident, his loved ones are left reeling and penniless—and Lena, who’d been on the cusp of heading off to college in Boston, sees her future slipping away.
Desperate to save her family and her own hopes of escaping their small town, Lena decides to take over Earl’s rum-running business. For a crew, she ropes in Walter, her roguish big brother who leans too hard on the bottle, Sam, her steadfast local boyfriend who wants to keep her tethered to shore, and Dee, a glamorous young woman summering in the Vineyard from Boston, who offers Lena a glimpse of the future she still wants for herself—and who’s keeping an explosive secret.
The foursome takes off on a journey from the quaint, colorful streets of Oak Bluffs through gangland Boston and down to the jazz-filled clubs of Harlem in its early Renaissance, all in search of quick money—and the truth about the shipwreck. But as buried secrets rise to the surface and the temptations of the glittering underworld pull Lena in deeper, soon everything she’s fought to protect hangs in the her heart, her family, and her place in a world quick to condemn women who dare to want more.
Martha’s Vineyard, 1923. The sea is a gift that keeps on giving to Lena Jameson’s father, Earl, a fisherman turned successful rumrunner who’s built up a small fortune smuggling liquor from offshore ships to thirsty customers back on the island. But when Earl and his entire crew are lost in a mysterious shipwreck that some whisper was no accident, his loved ones are left reeling and penniless—and Lena, who’d been on the cusp of heading off to college in Boston, sees her future slipping away.
Desperate to save her family and her own hopes of escaping their small town, Lena decides to take over Earl’s rum-running business. For a crew, she ropes in Walter, her roguish big brother who leans too hard on the bottle, Sam, her steadfast local boyfriend who wants to keep her tethered to shore, and Dee, a glamorous young woman summering in the Vineyard from Boston, who offers Lena a glimpse of the future she still wants for herself—and who’s keeping an explosive secret.
The foursome takes off on a journey from the quaint, colorful streets of Oak Bluffs through gangland Boston and down to the jazz-filled clubs of Harlem in its early Renaissance, all in search of quick money—and the truth about the shipwreck. But as buried secrets rise to the surface and the temptations of the glittering underworld pull Lena in deeper, soon everything she’s fought to protect hangs in the her heart, her family, and her place in a world quick to condemn women who dare to want more.
384 pages, Hardcover
Published July 28, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 14, 2026
Women’s self determination, class, race relations, and alcohol smuggling? Yeah. 5 stars.
August 26, 2026
Such a good hisfic!!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Ashton really blew me away with this. Learning more about the rum running trade in the northeast during prohibition was so cool to me. I had no idea Black folks were that involved, but it makes sense. And I loved our 2 MCs Lena and Dee. The ending also broke my heart in a million piece, but I get it 😮💨 you really gots to pay the costs to be the boss smh. But def looking forward to reading my from Ashton in the future 🙂↕️🙌🏾
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
If you love a blend of historical fiction, mystery, and suspense, then you absolutely read this book!
Lena Jameson did what she needed to do by taking over her father’s rum-running business after his untimely death in order to provide for her family and build a future for herself.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way the plot unfolds. Lattimore’s vivid, descriptive writing had me completely engrossed in the story, making it easy to see and feel Lena’s experiences during the Prohibition era through all of its highs, lows, and everything (and I mean everything) in between.
“Prohibition didn’t change a thing but the location of the liquor stores.”
Layered family dynamics makes things that much more interesting to add depth to the story.
The way the truth gradually came to light throughout Lena’s determined journey had me eagerly anticipating what would happen next because there were so many questions that needed answers.
What a thrilling, intricate historical ride!
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy.
Lena Jameson did what she needed to do by taking over her father’s rum-running business after his untimely death in order to provide for her family and build a future for herself.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way the plot unfolds. Lattimore’s vivid, descriptive writing had me completely engrossed in the story, making it easy to see and feel Lena’s experiences during the Prohibition era through all of its highs, lows, and everything (and I mean everything) in between.
“Prohibition didn’t change a thing but the location of the liquor stores.”
Layered family dynamics makes things that much more interesting to add depth to the story.
The way the truth gradually came to light throughout Lena’s determined journey had me eagerly anticipating what would happen next because there were so many questions that needed answers.
What a thrilling, intricate historical ride!
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy.
July 31, 2026
WOW. What a time! I read very little historical fiction largely because I always assume it will be a bit slow. This book was the opposite of slow! It truly had everything: mystery, romance, suspense, adventure, deeply emotional stories of friendship and family, and so much beautifully described history of Martha’s Vineyard and black culture on the east coast. I LOVED IT.
August 20, 2026
Runner by Ashton Lattimore is an atmospheric historical fiction story filled with family, ambition, secrets, danger, and the determination to create a life on your own terms.
Set in Martha’s Vineyard in 1923, the story follows Lena Jameson after the unexpected loss of her father leaves her family struggling and the future she had planned for herself suddenly uncertain. Rather than accepting that her dreams are over, Lena makes the bold decision to step into her father’s rum-running business.
Lena was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. I appreciated her determination and the way she refused to allow circumstances to completely dictate her future. She is ambitious, complicated, and willing to take risks, and I enjoyed watching her navigate the consequences of those choices.
The historical setting was another highlight for me. I really enjoyed the journey from Oak Bluffs to Boston and Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. The different settings added so much character to the story and created a strong sense of time and place. The descriptions of the jazz-filled clubs, the underground world of Prohibition, and the contrast between island life and the city made the story feel immersive.
The characters also kept me invested. Lena’s relationships with Walter, Sam, and Dee each brought something different to the story, and I liked that everyone had their own motivations and secrets. There was always a sense that there was more happening beneath the surface, which kept me curious about where the story was headed.
The mystery surrounding Lena’s father’s death added another layer to the story without taking away from the larger themes of family, survival, ambition, and independence. I found myself questioning what certain characters knew and how everything would eventually come together.
What I appreciated most about Runner was that Lena’s journey felt bigger than the rum-running business itself. At its core, this is a story about a woman trying to hold onto her family while also fighting for the right to have dreams of her own. Considering the time period, Lena’s desire for independence makes her journey especially compelling.
Overall, Runner was an engaging historical fiction read with a strong female protagonist, an intriguing mystery, complicated relationships, and a fascinating historical backdrop. I especially enjoyed the combination of Martha’s Vineyard, Prohibition-era Boston, and Harlem during the Renaissance.
If you enjoy historical fiction with strong women, family drama, mystery, romance, crime, and characters with plenty of secrets, Runner is worth adding to your TBR.
Set in Martha’s Vineyard in 1923, the story follows Lena Jameson after the unexpected loss of her father leaves her family struggling and the future she had planned for herself suddenly uncertain. Rather than accepting that her dreams are over, Lena makes the bold decision to step into her father’s rum-running business.
Lena was easily one of my favorite parts of this book. I appreciated her determination and the way she refused to allow circumstances to completely dictate her future. She is ambitious, complicated, and willing to take risks, and I enjoyed watching her navigate the consequences of those choices.
The historical setting was another highlight for me. I really enjoyed the journey from Oak Bluffs to Boston and Harlem during the Harlem Renaissance. The different settings added so much character to the story and created a strong sense of time and place. The descriptions of the jazz-filled clubs, the underground world of Prohibition, and the contrast between island life and the city made the story feel immersive.
The characters also kept me invested. Lena’s relationships with Walter, Sam, and Dee each brought something different to the story, and I liked that everyone had their own motivations and secrets. There was always a sense that there was more happening beneath the surface, which kept me curious about where the story was headed.
The mystery surrounding Lena’s father’s death added another layer to the story without taking away from the larger themes of family, survival, ambition, and independence. I found myself questioning what certain characters knew and how everything would eventually come together.
What I appreciated most about Runner was that Lena’s journey felt bigger than the rum-running business itself. At its core, this is a story about a woman trying to hold onto her family while also fighting for the right to have dreams of her own. Considering the time period, Lena’s desire for independence makes her journey especially compelling.
Overall, Runner was an engaging historical fiction read with a strong female protagonist, an intriguing mystery, complicated relationships, and a fascinating historical backdrop. I especially enjoyed the combination of Martha’s Vineyard, Prohibition-era Boston, and Harlem during the Renaissance.
If you enjoy historical fiction with strong women, family drama, mystery, romance, crime, and characters with plenty of secrets, Runner is worth adding to your TBR.
September 11, 2026
3.75 stars! wow. men was trifling then and they still trifling now.
September 24, 2026
This book was a really slow read for me. In the beginning, I was really engaged and wanted to know what was going to happen. I was interested in the suspense, the romance, and the mystery, and I thought the story was going to keep me hooked. However, as I got further into the book, the pace started to slow down, and it became harder for me to stay as engaged.
The FMC, Lena, was naïve and hotheaded, and she made some bad decisions throughout the story. Some of her choices were frustrating, and I found myself questioning her decisions more than once. Even with that, there were still parts of the story that kept me interested enough to see how everything would play out.
Overall, this was a decent read. It just wasn’t as engaging for me as I thought it would be based on the beginning.
The FMC, Lena, was naïve and hotheaded, and she made some bad decisions throughout the story. Some of her choices were frustrating, and I found myself questioning her decisions more than once. Even with that, there were still parts of the story that kept me interested enough to see how everything would play out.
Overall, this was a decent read. It just wasn’t as engaging for me as I thought it would be based on the beginning.
August 17, 2026
4.5
As a big fan of historical fiction, this one definitely hit the mark for me, and the mystery and adventure were the icing on the cake.
Lena dreams of leaving the island where she feels stifled and burdened by taking care of everyone but herself. After being accepted to Boston University, she finally sees a path toward the future she wants. But when her father and his crew are killed during a rum-running trip, her plans are put on hold. With her family suddenly broke and at risk of losing their home, Lena takes over her father's business. What begins as journey to quickly make money, quickly turns into a dangerous, life-threatening adventure that will change her life forever.
Lena frustrated me. She is obviously smart and quickly catches on to the rum-running business, but her know-it-all attitude, refusal to accept help, and hot temper often made her a difficult character to root for. Still, I appreciated that her flaws felt rooted in the pressure she was under as she tried to save her family and secure her own future.
One of my favorite aspects of the novel was learning about the lives of Black communities on Martha's Vineyard, in Boston, and in Harlem. We hear so much about the wealthy elites who vacation and summer there, but this story shines a light on the everyday people who lived and worked in these places year-round.
I didn't see the twist coming at all, and it made the ending even more satisfying. Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read that blends rich historical detail, an engaging mystery.
As a big fan of historical fiction, this one definitely hit the mark for me, and the mystery and adventure were the icing on the cake.
Lena dreams of leaving the island where she feels stifled and burdened by taking care of everyone but herself. After being accepted to Boston University, she finally sees a path toward the future she wants. But when her father and his crew are killed during a rum-running trip, her plans are put on hold. With her family suddenly broke and at risk of losing their home, Lena takes over her father's business. What begins as journey to quickly make money, quickly turns into a dangerous, life-threatening adventure that will change her life forever.
Lena frustrated me. She is obviously smart and quickly catches on to the rum-running business, but her know-it-all attitude, refusal to accept help, and hot temper often made her a difficult character to root for. Still, I appreciated that her flaws felt rooted in the pressure she was under as she tried to save her family and secure her own future.
One of my favorite aspects of the novel was learning about the lives of Black communities on Martha's Vineyard, in Boston, and in Harlem. We hear so much about the wealthy elites who vacation and summer there, but this story shines a light on the everyday people who lived and worked in these places year-round.
I didn't see the twist coming at all, and it made the ending even more satisfying. Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable read that blends rich historical detail, an engaging mystery.
October 21, 2026
Much of the historical fiction centered on African Americans takes place in the South, so I appreciated Ashton Lattimore’s decision to explore the beauty, complexity, and richness of the North—particularly Martha’s Vineyard.
We meet a grieving, financially struggling family whose recently deceased patriarch, Earl, was a rum runner. Following his death, his children, Lena and Walter, must find a way to save their family from financial ruin by taking over the rum-running business. Along for the ride are friends and former lovers, Dee and Sam, adding another layer of drama to an already complicated family dynamic.
This story takes us on a journey through mystery, buried family secrets, racism, misogyny, economic hardship, and self-discovery. At its heart, it’s about what happens when survival demands that you confront the past while fighting for your future.
The nerd in me especially enjoyed learning about the profit margins of rum running in Boston versus Martha’s Vineyard. The historical setting does more than establish a time and place; it highlights the differences between life in smaller communities and larger cities during the 1920s. Migration from the South to the North offered Black Americans access to certain liberties, but those freedoms often came at a cost.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is its portrayal of Black entrepreneurship and self-determination. From pharmacists and nightclub owners to those operating outside the law, Black characters are actively shaping their own destinies. This isn’t Black trauma put on display for consumption. It’s a story about Black ambition, ingenuity, ownership, and success—even when the odds are stacked against you.
I loved the historical atmosphere, family drama, mystery, and pacing. A’Rese Emokpae’s narration was wonderfully articulated and kept the story moving, making this an engaging listening experience.
Thank you, Ashton Lattimore, for exploring another facet of Black life and beauty through a compelling, grounded family story. This was a refreshing reminder that our history is as expansive as the places we’ve called home.
#HistoricalFiction #Mystery #BlackHistory
Review Date: October 20, 2026
Publication Date: July 28, 2026
Rating: 4.5 stars
We meet a grieving, financially struggling family whose recently deceased patriarch, Earl, was a rum runner. Following his death, his children, Lena and Walter, must find a way to save their family from financial ruin by taking over the rum-running business. Along for the ride are friends and former lovers, Dee and Sam, adding another layer of drama to an already complicated family dynamic.
This story takes us on a journey through mystery, buried family secrets, racism, misogyny, economic hardship, and self-discovery. At its heart, it’s about what happens when survival demands that you confront the past while fighting for your future.
The nerd in me especially enjoyed learning about the profit margins of rum running in Boston versus Martha’s Vineyard. The historical setting does more than establish a time and place; it highlights the differences between life in smaller communities and larger cities during the 1920s. Migration from the South to the North offered Black Americans access to certain liberties, but those freedoms often came at a cost.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is its portrayal of Black entrepreneurship and self-determination. From pharmacists and nightclub owners to those operating outside the law, Black characters are actively shaping their own destinies. This isn’t Black trauma put on display for consumption. It’s a story about Black ambition, ingenuity, ownership, and success—even when the odds are stacked against you.
I loved the historical atmosphere, family drama, mystery, and pacing. A’Rese Emokpae’s narration was wonderfully articulated and kept the story moving, making this an engaging listening experience.
Thank you, Ashton Lattimore, for exploring another facet of Black life and beauty through a compelling, grounded family story. This was a refreshing reminder that our history is as expansive as the places we’ve called home.
#HistoricalFiction #Mystery #BlackHistory
Review Date: October 20, 2026
Publication Date: July 28, 2026
Rating: 4.5 stars
September 14, 2026
This was an interesting historical fiction read. I’ve never read one set in 1923 during the Prohibition era on Martha’s Vineyard, so the setting immediately caught my attention.
In this book, we follow Lena, who has just lost her father, Earl, under suspicious circumstances. Her father ran a successful business smuggling liquor, but he also kept plenty of secrets.
Now Lena has to figure out how to keep her family out of debt while pursuing her own dreams and trying to uncover the truth about what happened to her father. Of course, none of this is going to be easy.
The author did a great job bringing Martha’s Vineyard to life. It was a beautiful setting that just so happened to have plenty of rumrunners operating throughout it. The story has everything from lies and betrayal to murder and the mob. We even travel north to Boston and Harlem for some additional action.
I’m new to this author, but this book definitely convinced me to pick up her previous novel, All We Were Promised.
In this book, we follow Lena, who has just lost her father, Earl, under suspicious circumstances. Her father ran a successful business smuggling liquor, but he also kept plenty of secrets.
Now Lena has to figure out how to keep her family out of debt while pursuing her own dreams and trying to uncover the truth about what happened to her father. Of course, none of this is going to be easy.
The author did a great job bringing Martha’s Vineyard to life. It was a beautiful setting that just so happened to have plenty of rumrunners operating throughout it. The story has everything from lies and betrayal to murder and the mob. We even travel north to Boston and Harlem for some additional action.
I’m new to this author, but this book definitely convinced me to pick up her previous novel, All We Were Promised.
September 11, 2026
3.5⭐️
Runner takes us to Martha’s Vineyard during the Prohibition era in the 1920s, and we follow Lena, her brother Wallace, her “friend” Dee, and her ex Sam after the unexpected death of her father, Earl.
Lena decides she’s going to step up and take care of her family by taking over her father’s rum-running business. And of course, taking over a business dominated by men comes with its own set of challenges.
We get twists, turns, family secrets, complicated relationships, and plenty of danger along the way. I enjoyed getting to see this side of Martha’s Vineyard and watching Lena try to hold her own.
Now, I will say this book was a little too long for me. The pacing was slower than I expected, especially in parts where I was ready for the story to pick up. But once things started moving, I was invested in seeing how everything would play out.
Runner takes us to Martha’s Vineyard during the Prohibition era in the 1920s, and we follow Lena, her brother Wallace, her “friend” Dee, and her ex Sam after the unexpected death of her father, Earl.
Lena decides she’s going to step up and take care of her family by taking over her father’s rum-running business. And of course, taking over a business dominated by men comes with its own set of challenges.
We get twists, turns, family secrets, complicated relationships, and plenty of danger along the way. I enjoyed getting to see this side of Martha’s Vineyard and watching Lena try to hold her own.
Now, I will say this book was a little too long for me. The pacing was slower than I expected, especially in parts where I was ready for the story to pick up. But once things started moving, I was invested in seeing how everything would play out.
September 5, 2026
Ok let's talk about how Lena got on my nerves and i feel she is the reason that happened to o boy at the end her and that temper
August 16, 2026
3.25/5. I loved the idea of this but it ultimately threw in so many plot lines and social issues that it all fell a little flat. The twists and turns were all just doing too much. I really enjoy this author and loved her first book - All We Were Promised. Her writing and ideas are great. About a black woman in Martha’s Vineyard who takes over her father’s successful rum-running business in the Prohibition Era after he and his crew mysteriously wreck at sea….and that’s truly just the beginning. I enjoyed so much of this, but would have loved more depth and fewer main issues.
July 29, 2026
Everybody in this book was irritating, and I loved every second!
I love a book with complicated women, and every woman in this story has a secret. Add a little romance, a lot of crime, and a murder mystery and put it all on the seaside of the Prohibition era and you got a gripping tale that I could not put down.
Lena’s hot-headed self will stress you OUT! But she is what makes the books exciting as she navigates grief and independence, but she has me screaming at her multiple times. But I loved how dynamic and imperfect she was, it made her feel so human.
Lattimore did a fantastic job at world-building, and showcasing this cinematic old world experience on the east coast. The history felt rich and authentic, and love that she gave us details in the author’s note. Definitely a book you want to read cover to cover.
I love a book with complicated women, and every woman in this story has a secret. Add a little romance, a lot of crime, and a murder mystery and put it all on the seaside of the Prohibition era and you got a gripping tale that I could not put down.
Lena’s hot-headed self will stress you OUT! But she is what makes the books exciting as she navigates grief and independence, but she has me screaming at her multiple times. But I loved how dynamic and imperfect she was, it made her feel so human.
Lattimore did a fantastic job at world-building, and showcasing this cinematic old world experience on the east coast. The history felt rich and authentic, and love that she gave us details in the author’s note. Definitely a book you want to read cover to cover.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📚 On Casey’s Bookshelf
Book: 46
Dates read: 03.06.2026 – 03.10.2026
Title: Runner
Author: Ashton Lattimore
Format: digital ARC
#caseysbookshelf
Let me start here. It does not normally take me this long to read a book. I was hella busy at the beginning of the month, so don’t let the timeline fool you. This was not the book… it was work.
Because once I was locked in, I was locked in.
There’s something really special about a historical novel that doesn’t just take you back in time, but makes you realize how much of that time you were never taught in the first place.
Runner pulls us into Martha’s Vineyard during Prohibition, but not the version most people think they know. This is a story rooted in Black life on the island. Community, survival, ambition, and the quiet ways people built lives for themselves in the middle of systems that weren’t built for them.
Lena is trying to hold everything together after her father’s death, making decisions that feel bigger than her age. Dee arrives carrying her own questions, and watching their lives begin to orbit each other adds a tension that kept me fully engaged.
And what I wasn’t expecting? A subtle suspense thread running through the story.
There are questions sitting just under the surface that you’re not quite sure will be answered, but they stay with you. And when the author decides to pull that thread? My mouth literally dropped. I did not see it coming. At all.
It’s written with a level of control that feels very intentional. Like someone who understands how to build tension without disrupting the emotional core of the story. The thriller girlie in me was very satisfied.
What also stood out is how the book engages with the Prohibition era. We all learned about it in school, but let’s be real… where were the Black people? We know we existed, but the stories of how we lived, worked, and navigated that time are rarely centered.
This book fills in some of those gaps and raises even more questions. Especially around Black life and the Black middle class during that period. I would love to sit down with Ashton and talk through her research because you can feel it on the page.
It reads with intention. Not rushed, not overly heavy, just immersive in a way that lets the world build around you.
If you love historical fiction that centers Black experiences, or you’ve been wanting to get into the genre, this is a strong place to start.
This one will be in stores July 28.
Thank you Ballantine Books for the #giftedcopy in exchange for an honest review.
Another book off the shelf. We keep reading with intention. 📚
Book: 46
Dates read: 03.06.2026 – 03.10.2026
Title: Runner
Author: Ashton Lattimore
Format: digital ARC
#caseysbookshelf
Let me start here. It does not normally take me this long to read a book. I was hella busy at the beginning of the month, so don’t let the timeline fool you. This was not the book… it was work.
Because once I was locked in, I was locked in.
There’s something really special about a historical novel that doesn’t just take you back in time, but makes you realize how much of that time you were never taught in the first place.
Runner pulls us into Martha’s Vineyard during Prohibition, but not the version most people think they know. This is a story rooted in Black life on the island. Community, survival, ambition, and the quiet ways people built lives for themselves in the middle of systems that weren’t built for them.
Lena is trying to hold everything together after her father’s death, making decisions that feel bigger than her age. Dee arrives carrying her own questions, and watching their lives begin to orbit each other adds a tension that kept me fully engaged.
And what I wasn’t expecting? A subtle suspense thread running through the story.
There are questions sitting just under the surface that you’re not quite sure will be answered, but they stay with you. And when the author decides to pull that thread? My mouth literally dropped. I did not see it coming. At all.
It’s written with a level of control that feels very intentional. Like someone who understands how to build tension without disrupting the emotional core of the story. The thriller girlie in me was very satisfied.
What also stood out is how the book engages with the Prohibition era. We all learned about it in school, but let’s be real… where were the Black people? We know we existed, but the stories of how we lived, worked, and navigated that time are rarely centered.
This book fills in some of those gaps and raises even more questions. Especially around Black life and the Black middle class during that period. I would love to sit down with Ashton and talk through her research because you can feel it on the page.
It reads with intention. Not rushed, not overly heavy, just immersive in a way that lets the world build around you.
If you love historical fiction that centers Black experiences, or you’ve been wanting to get into the genre, this is a strong place to start.
This one will be in stores July 28.
Thank you Ballantine Books for the #giftedcopy in exchange for an honest review.
Another book off the shelf. We keep reading with intention. 📚
August 3, 2026
Following her 2024 debut, ALL WE WERE PROMISED, Ashton Lattimore introduces Lena Jameson. Youthful Lena had earned her sea legs when her dad, Earl, let her steer the Honeysuckle on fishing trips. At age 23, Lena takes on the responsibilities of managing a household and the family-owned Clam Shack in the gender and race inequity of segregated Martha’s Vineyard during 1923’s Prohibition era.
Lena poignantly realizes that her rum-running father was more sinner than saint after he and his crew die in a suspicious shipwreck. Her brother, Walter, is a gadabout who sails his ship in a contraband bottle of bootlegged booze. As for her mom, “Sarah was all strength and focus, right up to the moment she wasn’t.” Delinquent mortgage payments and property taxes force chameleon Lena to become a rumrunner. “Ain’t no shame in trying to take care of family.”
Due to the sea claiming Earl, there’s only a memorial service, after which Dee Brooks from Boston snags a printed eulogy and obit that omits key factors of his life. Dee is challenged by locating accommodations since “rooming houses that took in colored guests in Oak Bluffs could be counted on one hand with fingers to spare.”
Lena assembles a motley crew consisting of Walt, sometimes-boyfriend Sam, and Dee. After a near-profitless haul of hooch for local guesthouses, Lena and crew branch out to gangland Boston and the Jazz Age of Harlem. They encounter trouble at each turn: gangster ambushes, a competitor rumrunner ramming their vessel, and authorities invoking the 1919 Volstead Act to ransack the Clam Shack.
When Lena and Dee are about to accept defeat, powerful women guide them to success. “But as ever, a woman had stepped into the gap where a man had failed.”
An unapologetic feminist current courses through RUNNER like the Gulf Stream. Thriller, suspense and surprise mystery aspects are embedded in this laudable work of historical fiction.
Reviewed by L. Dean Murphy
Lena poignantly realizes that her rum-running father was more sinner than saint after he and his crew die in a suspicious shipwreck. Her brother, Walter, is a gadabout who sails his ship in a contraband bottle of bootlegged booze. As for her mom, “Sarah was all strength and focus, right up to the moment she wasn’t.” Delinquent mortgage payments and property taxes force chameleon Lena to become a rumrunner. “Ain’t no shame in trying to take care of family.”
Due to the sea claiming Earl, there’s only a memorial service, after which Dee Brooks from Boston snags a printed eulogy and obit that omits key factors of his life. Dee is challenged by locating accommodations since “rooming houses that took in colored guests in Oak Bluffs could be counted on one hand with fingers to spare.”
Lena assembles a motley crew consisting of Walt, sometimes-boyfriend Sam, and Dee. After a near-profitless haul of hooch for local guesthouses, Lena and crew branch out to gangland Boston and the Jazz Age of Harlem. They encounter trouble at each turn: gangster ambushes, a competitor rumrunner ramming their vessel, and authorities invoking the 1919 Volstead Act to ransack the Clam Shack.
When Lena and Dee are about to accept defeat, powerful women guide them to success. “But as ever, a woman had stepped into the gap where a man had failed.”
An unapologetic feminist current courses through RUNNER like the Gulf Stream. Thriller, suspense and surprise mystery aspects are embedded in this laudable work of historical fiction.
Reviewed by L. Dean Murphy
October 28, 2026
Enjoy historical, women’s fiction? … Pick up Runner a recent release by Ashton Lattimore, a new to me author. Thank you for the gifted copy! 🫶🏽
Set in 1923 during Prohibition, when alcohol was illegal in the US, Runner follows after her father, Earl, dies in a mysterious shipwreck. A fisherman turned rumrunner, Earl leaves his family broke …. and Lena decides to take over his liquor-smuggling business to save their home and hold on to her future.
And our girl Lena really said, “Well, somebody has to keep this family afloat.” 😅 Sis, you can’t just inherit your father’s rum-running operation and turn yourself into a queenpin! But she was about that life, and I was along for the ride.
Because Earl? Whew! That man had secrets that walked and talked. 🫢 The revelations connecting Lena and Dee added an emotional layer to the story. Both women were dealing with money problems and trying to move forward while carrying the weight of everything Earl left unresolved. Add in our side characters Walter and Jesse … they were on a mission despite the twists and turns they faced 😅 … some of which gave them a run for their money (very much pun intended) as the clock was ticking … literally!
I especially loved the pieces of Auntie Marian. She gave Lena words of wisdom exactly when I felt she needed them. Lena kept hitting walls because the come-up wasn’t coming quickly enough, and Auntie Marian’s reminder to trust what she knew in her bones was a message that extended beyond the story. The moment with Dee warmed my heart! “Good, strong Jameson women” and was! #iykyk
There were tense moments, bloodshed, twist & turns, betrayal, sisterhood, and enough family secrets to make me wonder what else Earl managed to hide. The historical details created a vivid backdrop, while the family drama kept right on coming. And the tears? I was not prepared.
I enjoyed this historical-fiction ride! #Runner #AshtonLattimore #MarthasVineyard #BookRecommendation
Set in 1923 during Prohibition, when alcohol was illegal in the US, Runner follows after her father, Earl, dies in a mysterious shipwreck. A fisherman turned rumrunner, Earl leaves his family broke …. and Lena decides to take over his liquor-smuggling business to save their home and hold on to her future.
And our girl Lena really said, “Well, somebody has to keep this family afloat.” 😅 Sis, you can’t just inherit your father’s rum-running operation and turn yourself into a queenpin! But she was about that life, and I was along for the ride.
Because Earl? Whew! That man had secrets that walked and talked. 🫢 The revelations connecting Lena and Dee added an emotional layer to the story. Both women were dealing with money problems and trying to move forward while carrying the weight of everything Earl left unresolved. Add in our side characters Walter and Jesse … they were on a mission despite the twists and turns they faced 😅 … some of which gave them a run for their money (very much pun intended) as the clock was ticking … literally!
I especially loved the pieces of Auntie Marian. She gave Lena words of wisdom exactly when I felt she needed them. Lena kept hitting walls because the come-up wasn’t coming quickly enough, and Auntie Marian’s reminder to trust what she knew in her bones was a message that extended beyond the story. The moment with Dee warmed my heart! “Good, strong Jameson women” and was! #iykyk
There were tense moments, bloodshed, twist & turns, betrayal, sisterhood, and enough family secrets to make me wonder what else Earl managed to hide. The historical details created a vivid backdrop, while the family drama kept right on coming. And the tears? I was not prepared.
I enjoyed this historical-fiction ride! #Runner #AshtonLattimore #MarthasVineyard #BookRecommendation
September 2, 2026
I just got back from a week in Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard, and I wanted a novel that could keep me in that world a little longer. Runners was my first read by Ashton Lattimore, and it delivered exactly the kind of atmosphere, tension, and character-driven storytelling I was hoping for. Runners is built around a compelling cast: Lena, Dee, Walter, Sam, Earl and Sarah amongst other supporting characters, each carrying their own secrets, loyalties, and wounds. Lena, in particular, is a force. Her business acumen running an illegal alcohol-buying operation during Prohibition makes her a standout; she’s sharp, strategic, and absolutely a boss. The way she navigates danger, community ties, and the constant threat of exposure gives the book its heartbeat. However, sometimes, I would have not like to see her do those immediate confrontations, but more plotting which can be more sinister. Dee’s surprising familiar relationship with the other, especially the layers of connection and conflict she shares with Lena, Walter, and Sarah adds emotional depth and tension. The author reveals those bonds slowly, letting them unfold in ways that feel earned and human. I love how the author allowed them to reconcile without being too cheesy. The plot moves with purpose, weaving together bootlegging, betrayal, and the risks of living on the margins. The twist involving Sam and his betrayal lands hard because I did not see that coming, it’s the kind of reveal that reframes earlier moments and raises the stakes for everyone involved. By the time the story reaches its ending, the author ties the threads together with clarity and intention, giving the characters closure without losing the grit that defines their world.
I loved the book and look forward to reading more by this author.
I loved the book and look forward to reading more by this author.
July 26, 2026
32215 0f 45K pages
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, Ashton Lattimore and Ballantine Books for the advanced copy in return for my honest feedback.
Lena Jameson, born into a Black seafaring family, has her life upended when her father Earl—once a fisherman turned successful rumrunner—dies in a mysterious shipwreck along with his entire crew. Rumors swirl that it wasn’t an accident. With her family suddenly penniless and her dreams of college slipping away, Lena decides to take over her father’s illicit business to keep her home afloat and to investigate what really happened.
This novel had everything in it! Suspense, mystery and twists. 1920s prohibition, racism, misogyny, feminism, elicit and secret affairs all centered around Lena determined to save her family from financial ruin.
I loved the depth of Lena's character and her strength even when the odds were against her. She is a very strong main character while the men (brother, uncle etc.) are not. In fact, all the women in this book were much more evolved and knowing then their men counterparts.
This was a fun and entertaining novel that I did enjoy! I would recommend!
Thank you again to NetGalley, Ballantine Books and the author!
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, Ashton Lattimore and Ballantine Books for the advanced copy in return for my honest feedback.
Lena Jameson, born into a Black seafaring family, has her life upended when her father Earl—once a fisherman turned successful rumrunner—dies in a mysterious shipwreck along with his entire crew. Rumors swirl that it wasn’t an accident. With her family suddenly penniless and her dreams of college slipping away, Lena decides to take over her father’s illicit business to keep her home afloat and to investigate what really happened.
This novel had everything in it! Suspense, mystery and twists. 1920s prohibition, racism, misogyny, feminism, elicit and secret affairs all centered around Lena determined to save her family from financial ruin.
I loved the depth of Lena's character and her strength even when the odds were against her. She is a very strong main character while the men (brother, uncle etc.) are not. In fact, all the women in this book were much more evolved and knowing then their men counterparts.
This was a fun and entertaining novel that I did enjoy! I would recommend!
Thank you again to NetGalley, Ballantine Books and the author!
September 3, 2026
Great read!!
A young lady running the prohibition game whilst trying to uncover what really happened to her father and his boat crew. I enjoyed the 2 big twists in the storyline supershocked at the love interest twist.
I absolutley love a good historical fiction.
This story highlights the Prohibition Era setting in Oak Bluff, historical black community in Martha's Vineyard, and the main character being a black woman Lena, trying to save her family home after the death of her father. She finds herself being pulled into deep underworld of the illegal activities that her father was part of and then also has to deal with a betrayal she she never saw coming.
Lena is determined to go to college, live her dream but with the suddend death of her father she is thrown into taking care of the family. Her journey gives mystery, suspense, family secrets (its messy) and heartbreak. The determination and resilience that Lena has throughout this story is definitaion "takes it on the chin"
Throughout this we learn more of her brother Walter, Sam and Dee. Each one adds a necessary detail to the plot and drama of this amazing story.
I look forward to reading more from Lattimore.
A young lady running the prohibition game whilst trying to uncover what really happened to her father and his boat crew. I enjoyed the 2 big twists in the storyline supershocked at the love interest twist.
I absolutley love a good historical fiction.
This story highlights the Prohibition Era setting in Oak Bluff, historical black community in Martha's Vineyard, and the main character being a black woman Lena, trying to save her family home after the death of her father. She finds herself being pulled into deep underworld of the illegal activities that her father was part of and then also has to deal with a betrayal she she never saw coming.
Lena is determined to go to college, live her dream but with the suddend death of her father she is thrown into taking care of the family. Her journey gives mystery, suspense, family secrets (its messy) and heartbreak. The determination and resilience that Lena has throughout this story is definitaion "takes it on the chin"
Throughout this we learn more of her brother Walter, Sam and Dee. Each one adds a necessary detail to the plot and drama of this amazing story.
I look forward to reading more from Lattimore.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really felt for the main character in Ashton Lattimore's Runner. Leah is a young Black woman in 1923 living on Martha's Vineyard, she has just been accepted into college on the mainland and can't wait to start the next chapter of her life. But, of course, tragedy strikes when her father's rum runner boat is destroyed and the crew all died. Leah sees the need for money not only to go off to college but to save her family's home.
This begins a whole escapade to follow in her father's footsteps running liquor during Prohibition and also learning long the way that her father may not have been as a great a man as she thought. There is an interesting cast of characters including her older brother, her on again, off again boyfriend, and a new friend who is summering on the island.
Leah also travels to Boston and Harlem so we are introduced to what life was like in those places during Prohibition. The descriptions of the Vineyard along with the mainland transport the reader. The author's notes at the end were very informative about the real rum runners of the day.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
This begins a whole escapade to follow in her father's footsteps running liquor during Prohibition and also learning long the way that her father may not have been as a great a man as she thought. There is an interesting cast of characters including her older brother, her on again, off again boyfriend, and a new friend who is summering on the island.
Leah also travels to Boston and Harlem so we are introduced to what life was like in those places during Prohibition. The descriptions of the Vineyard along with the mainland transport the reader. The author's notes at the end were very informative about the real rum runners of the day.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Interesting, but a bit lengthy, Runner is the story of Lena, brother Walter, and new "friend" Dee who set out to revive their recently murdered father's rum running business in Prohibition Boston area. Lena's longtime boyfriend, pharmacist Sam, takes part in the "business" as well. As the story progresses we learn about the criminal element involved in the business, as well as how relationships develop and disintegrate when money is tight and the law is against all that brings in such income.
This story has some twists and turns that are interesting, but ultimately, it was just too long, and could have been edited down a lot. I started getting frustrated with the progress and skimmed the chapters from time to time. The end of the book presented several surprises, and I'm glad I finished, as the ending was quite satisfying. I think this book would appeal to readers of historical fiction, especially those who love the culture of the Prohibition in New England.
Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review Runner.
This story has some twists and turns that are interesting, but ultimately, it was just too long, and could have been edited down a lot. I started getting frustrated with the progress and skimmed the chapters from time to time. The end of the book presented several surprises, and I'm glad I finished, as the ending was quite satisfying. I think this book would appeal to readers of historical fiction, especially those who love the culture of the Prohibition in New England.
Thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review Runner.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Runner was a great read, loosely based on the Black rum running history of Martha’s Vineyard. Lena Jameson is the feisty protagonist. After Lena’s rum runner father dies at sea, she is determined to take his place to save her family from losing their home. Lena drags in a small posse to support the difficult and dangerous work, but is clearly the ringleader.
While a lot of the story takes place on Martha’s Vineyard, there are storylines in Boston and Manhattan that provide a peek into the music, art, and queer scene for Black Americans at the time.
Lena is an easy character to root for: her spunk and fire make her very likable. The supporting cast doesn’t offer as much, but it comes together nicely. There is a hint of mystery, but it’s mostly a fun drama that gives a slice of history I knew nothing about. The end got a little wild for me, but it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the novel.
Recommended. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
While a lot of the story takes place on Martha’s Vineyard, there are storylines in Boston and Manhattan that provide a peek into the music, art, and queer scene for Black Americans at the time.
Lena is an easy character to root for: her spunk and fire make her very likable. The supporting cast doesn’t offer as much, but it comes together nicely. There is a hint of mystery, but it’s mostly a fun drama that gives a slice of history I knew nothing about. The end got a little wild for me, but it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the novel.
Recommended. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Historical fiction is always better when it exposes a reader to the unknown past of Prohibition. In Lattimore’s title meet the fractured family of Lena Jameson, a young Black woman with college aspirations. Father is a rumrunner plying his trade in the waters surrounding Martha’s Vineyard. Secrets regarding his trade and his family begin to surface after his death at sea, which may be suspicious. Lena, his feisty daughter, did not realize the state of his finances until his death. She sees the only way out to protect her mother and young siblings is to become a rumrunner herself…using her and her brother’s limited seafaring knowledge and establishing connections with suppliers and buyers who are not trusting or trustworthy. There is also the matter of her father’s philandering ways and that effect. This is a title with mystery, romance, queer scene, feminism, jazz, art, money and danger – something for everyone. Recommended. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this title.
September 2, 2026
Runner
Ashton Lattimore
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 3/5
"The house had space enough to hide things. Whether that was the cottage's finest quality or its most scandalous flaw was a question for another season."
ONE SENTENCE SUMMARY: After her father's untimely death, Lena is determined to keep her family in their home, which means she is going to have to quickly learn how to take over her father's ruthless rum running business.
What this book does really well is tell a historical story that isn't often told. While most of us can name the mobsters who became prominent in the 20s through bootlegging, we don't actually know anything about where, how, and who they got their supply from. And, while the Italian mob became the most famous, plenty of other crime syndicates were in on the action, including black ones. This book was at its best when Lena was on Martha's Vineyard, telling her family history and telling the story of the resort town's haves and have nots. This is a story that persists to modern day, one of a place that gets "discovered" and the double edge sword of tourism that brings profits but also makes locals second class citizens. Lattimore paints a portrait where Lena and her family cannot have a profitable life on the vineyard, not anymore, from just the honest professions available to black full-time residents. While her aunts are resentful of the bootlegging, no one can argue with the results. Lena's slow fall into more and more dangerous runs is born from a place of wanting to provide, of hoping the next big score will be enough to be the last, and it is easy to see how someone could accidentally fall into something so illegal.
Despite the great historical context and depiction of place and time, I struggled getting to know all of these characters deeply, which is why I think I never totally fell in the love with this book. The emotional heart of the book is supposed to come from the relationship between Lena and Dee. Dee is hiding a significant secret from Lena, one that once discovered will permanently impact their relationship. Despite this, I never felt that I truly got to know these two characters. They felt too one-dimensional for me, and that did not change over time. As a result of their flatness, they did not change much, conflicts were quickly resolved, and no true work on the relationship was done despite there being so much fertile ground for something profound to occur. I wanted both Lena and Dee to be more well-rounded people so their actions and internal thoughts would be less predictable but that never happened. Lattimore remains an incredible historical fiction writer and I look forward to her next offering, this just did not live up to her stellar debut effort for me.
Ashton Lattimore
Genre: Historical Fiction
Rating: 3/5
"The house had space enough to hide things. Whether that was the cottage's finest quality or its most scandalous flaw was a question for another season."
ONE SENTENCE SUMMARY: After her father's untimely death, Lena is determined to keep her family in their home, which means she is going to have to quickly learn how to take over her father's ruthless rum running business.
What this book does really well is tell a historical story that isn't often told. While most of us can name the mobsters who became prominent in the 20s through bootlegging, we don't actually know anything about where, how, and who they got their supply from. And, while the Italian mob became the most famous, plenty of other crime syndicates were in on the action, including black ones. This book was at its best when Lena was on Martha's Vineyard, telling her family history and telling the story of the resort town's haves and have nots. This is a story that persists to modern day, one of a place that gets "discovered" and the double edge sword of tourism that brings profits but also makes locals second class citizens. Lattimore paints a portrait where Lena and her family cannot have a profitable life on the vineyard, not anymore, from just the honest professions available to black full-time residents. While her aunts are resentful of the bootlegging, no one can argue with the results. Lena's slow fall into more and more dangerous runs is born from a place of wanting to provide, of hoping the next big score will be enough to be the last, and it is easy to see how someone could accidentally fall into something so illegal.
Despite the great historical context and depiction of place and time, I struggled getting to know all of these characters deeply, which is why I think I never totally fell in the love with this book. The emotional heart of the book is supposed to come from the relationship between Lena and Dee. Dee is hiding a significant secret from Lena, one that once discovered will permanently impact their relationship. Despite this, I never felt that I truly got to know these two characters. They felt too one-dimensional for me, and that did not change over time. As a result of their flatness, they did not change much, conflicts were quickly resolved, and no true work on the relationship was done despite there being so much fertile ground for something profound to occur. I wanted both Lena and Dee to be more well-rounded people so their actions and internal thoughts would be less predictable but that never happened. Lattimore remains an incredible historical fiction writer and I look forward to her next offering, this just did not live up to her stellar debut effort for me.
September 27, 2026
I initially didn't plan to finish this book. I DNF-ed the first time around but decided to pick it up again and I'm glad I did. The premise was interesting, even though the book got off to a slow start. I started to get intrigued for real when I finally got to Dee's first big secret and was hooked afterwards. Overall, the story did feel a little long and redundant, especially in the third act but it kept my attention the second time around.
I will say... I really grew to dislike Lena. I empathized with her at first, but her sanctimonious, self-righteous, and self-centered behavior started to grate on me. As did her temper and how her temper put others in danger. I agreed with Dee that Lena was two timing (just like her duplicitous Daddy) and she was super hypocritical in judging her mom and Sam for not living the way she would want but expecting the freedom and consideration they wouldn't give to her. Honestly, I'm glad she didn't really get a happy ever after since she didn't deserve one and needed to face the consequences of her hotheaded actions.
I will say... I really grew to dislike Lena. I empathized with her at first, but her sanctimonious, self-righteous, and self-centered behavior started to grate on me. As did her temper and how her temper put others in danger. I agreed with Dee that Lena was two timing (just like her duplicitous Daddy) and she was super hypocritical in judging her mom and Sam for not living the way she would want but expecting the freedom and consideration they wouldn't give to her. Honestly, I'm glad she didn't really get a happy ever after since she didn't deserve one and needed to face the consequences of her hotheaded actions.
July 28, 2026
In 1923 Martha’s Vineyard Lena and Walter just lost their father Earl in a boating accident. Needing money to support their family they decide to get into his dangerous rum running business with the help of Lena’s new friend Dee. Dee came to the island to see Earl, because she is also his daughter because Earl had a second family unbeknownst to Lena. The three risk their lives in order to rum run, bringing them to NYC and Boston. They also learn that people who they trusted were not who they seem to be.
I really enjoyed the author’s last book and I thought the story behind this one was fascinating, rum running Black women during prohibition. However the story was just a little too slow for me for much of the book and I found it hard to want to sit down to read. The topic is great but the book needed something. The audiobook was good, but I think this is better as an eyeball read (or at least to start as an eyeball read) because there is so much going in and a lot of characters to keep track of.
3.5
I really enjoyed the author’s last book and I thought the story behind this one was fascinating, rum running Black women during prohibition. However the story was just a little too slow for me for much of the book and I found it hard to want to sit down to read. The topic is great but the book needed something. The audiobook was good, but I think this is better as an eyeball read (or at least to start as an eyeball read) because there is so much going in and a lot of characters to keep track of.
3.5
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for an advanced reader copy of Runner. FIVE STAR READ!
Runner is a warm blend of historical fiction, high adventure, and just the right touch of suspense. The book opens with the death of rum-runner, Earl Jameson. His daughter, Lena, convinces her brother, Walter, to take over the family business to keep the Oak Bluffs family home. Meanwhile, Dee arrives on the island, meets, and befriends Lena. The trio pulls in Lena's sometimes boyfriend, Sam, into the fold, and they set off to Rum Row.
From there, the story pulled me in, and it was a page-turner. I finished this book in two sittings. Runner is full of historical tidbits as the four characters face higher and higher stakes. Illegal activities, vibrant descriptions of life in Oak Bluffs, rife with familial tensions, this was a great book, definitely one of my favorite books of 2026.
Runner is a warm blend of historical fiction, high adventure, and just the right touch of suspense. The book opens with the death of rum-runner, Earl Jameson. His daughter, Lena, convinces her brother, Walter, to take over the family business to keep the Oak Bluffs family home. Meanwhile, Dee arrives on the island, meets, and befriends Lena. The trio pulls in Lena's sometimes boyfriend, Sam, into the fold, and they set off to Rum Row.
From there, the story pulled me in, and it was a page-turner. I finished this book in two sittings. Runner is full of historical tidbits as the four characters face higher and higher stakes. Illegal activities, vibrant descriptions of life in Oak Bluffs, rife with familial tensions, this was a great book, definitely one of my favorite books of 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was given an advance reading copy (arc) of this book from the publisher and NetGalley.com in exchange for a fair review. I had high hopes for this book. Rumrunning in the 1920s is a fascinating topic and the fact that this book takes place on Martha's Vineyard made it all the more appealing. When Earl Jameson, a fisherman who became a successful rumrunner, and his crew are murdered at sea, his daughter, Lena takes over. In the process, Lena discovers that her father led a double life with another family in Boston. All very intriguing, but to me, the problem with this book was the writing style. It just seemed to fall flat and the characters seemed very one-dimensional. The story itself was interesting and the historical research involved was well done. The book itself, however, didn't come across for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews