Black Cherokee tells the story of a girl caught between multiple communities, only to face rejection from them all. Ophelia grapples with understanding why her family faces such widespread dislike—even from their own relatives. As she grows, she strives to meet others’ expectations but repeatedly hears she isn’t enough. Finally, she sheds these imposed standards and charts her own path. Ophelia’s journey weaves through moments of heartbreak and triumph.

The history of the Cherokee Freedmen was entirely new to me, and this novel was an eye-opening experience. I deeply appreciate how Mr. Downing portrays the experience of Freedmen descendants through such beautiful prose.

Black Cherokee is set to release on August 19, 2025 and is available for preorder.