Ernestine

by Talita Gordon

True love is anything but black and white.In 1930s Mississippi, colorlines are drawn in every facet of life.Ernestine, a black maid on the white Miles’ family farm, works hard at her job.And she lives a simple life of reading and spending time with her mother and younger sister.But the colorlines are crossed when she begins a steamy romance with the white, handsome and married Liam John Miles.Feeling an intense connection, their secret, sexual trysts eventually become a deep, honest love that feels like it could last forever.Until their secret relationship is exposed.When dangerous members of the Miles family threaten to destroy Ernestine and her family, what choice will she have to make?Will she and her family flee and start over?Or will she find a way to declare her love and stay with the man she loves?Fans of Queen by Alex Haley and The Color Purple by Alice Walker won’t be able to put down Ernestine by Talita Gordon.Read it today.

176 pages, Paperback

Published November 11, 2016

About the author

I am a storyteller of truth, tenderness, and unapologetic Black love. As a proud dark-skinned Black woman, I write from lived experience, centering heroines who reflect my beauty, complexity, and emotional power. Through characters like Teagan, Michelle, Hollynn, and Yolanda, I uplift the dark-skinned Black woman as muse, protagonist, and legacy bearer. My male characters don’t just love these women; they see them, protect them, and cherish them.

My creative range spans novels, affirmation journals, and healing rituals—all designed to affirm Black womanhood as a powerful privilege.

My mission is to amplify Black women’s stories and build a literary home for voices like mine.

Follow me on Instagram @iamtalitagordon