The Knowing

In The Knowing, Flora navigates love and betrayal in 19th-century New York, where her gift of summoning the dead complicates her survival.

Set against the gritty backdrop of 19th-century New York, The Knowing tells the story of Flora, a tattooed mystic who struggles for survival in a harsh and unforgiving world. Working as a living canvas for a violent tattoo artist, Flora encounters Minnie, a captivating circus performer who offers her a glimpse of love and safety. Their connection, however, is complicated by the presence of Chester Merton, a menacing figure who controls their fates. As Flora navigates this treacherous love triangle, she must also confront her unique ability known as 'the Knowing'—a gift that allows her to summon the dead. This power becomes both a curse and a potential salvation as she unravels the dark secrets within Merton's opulent, yet sinister, home.

The novel explores themes of love, obsession, betrayal, and the ways in which women can weaponize their trauma. Flora’s journey is not just about survival; it’s about reclaiming her agency in a world that seeks to oppress her. As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into a rich tapestry of historical detail, including references to real-life figures such as Maud Wagner, one of the first known female tattoo artists, and the notorious Dead Rabbits gang.

The Knowing is a vivid and immersive tale that blends gothic elements with a compelling narrative. It invites readers to experience the visceral emotions of its characters while reflecting on the darker aspects of human nature and the resilience of the spirit. This debut novel promises to captivate those who enjoy dark historical fiction with a touch of the supernatural.