American Spy

What if you had to betray the man you love because it was your duty? This captivating espionage story, which deftly switches between New York and West Africa, centers on a woman who must decide between her honor and her heart.

In 1986, during the height of the Cold War, Marie Mitchell works for the FBI as an intelligence officer. She works in an old guys' club and is intelligent, but she is also a young Black lady. Her career has stagnated, she is passed over for every elite team, and her days are spent on tedious paperwork. She thus replies "yes" when offered the chance to work with a covert task force that seeks to destroy Burkina Faso's charismatic and revolutionary president, Thomas Sankara, whose Communist ideology has made him a target for US involvement. Sure, even though she's got a secret admiration for what Thomas is doing for his nation. Yes, even if Marie is still in mourning for her sister's untimely loss. Marie was initially inspired to pursue this career route by her sister. Yes, despite her indignant inner voice that tells her that her looks, not her skills, are the reason she's getting the job offer.

Marie will watch Thomas in the ensuing year, woo him, and eventually play a part in the coup that would remove him from office. However, if she does this, it will fundamentally alter her perception of what it is to be a decent American, a lover, a sister, and a spy.

Inspired by real-life events, this book interweaves a riveting spy thriller, a tragic family drama, and an intense romance. Thomas Sankara is referred to as "Africa's Che Guevara." This portrayal of the Cold War presents a fresh and potent literary voice that you have never seen before.