American-born author releases two new works based on true Dominican events

Kristine Simelda, an American-born author who has resided in Dominica for the past three decades, is set to launch two new novels that shed light on true-life kidnappings that took place on the island in 2011 and 2022. The novels, titled “Rainforest Redemption” and “Blessings on Blessings,” are both part of the Maxine Alexander Mystery series.

The gala launch event for these captivating novels is scheduled for this Saturday, June 1, starting at 4 pm at Tropical Blendz Café, located on the upper floor of Prevo Cinemall at the corner of Old St. and Kennedy Ave. The event promises an opportunity to meet the author, enjoy refreshments, listen to live music by Jussi Paavola, and engage in discussions about child abuse prevention.

In “Rainforest Redemption: A Maxine Alexander Mystery, Book I,” readers follow the journey of Maxine Alexander, a determined junior reporter, as she investigates the disappearance of her classmate Flora Durand in the village of Plaisance. With the help of a Rasta man named Jacko, Maxine delves into a world where good and evil collide, leading to a gripping showdown.

“Blessings on Blessings: A Maxine Alexander Mystery, Book II,” continues the story with Maxine returning to Plaisance after a decade abroad. When a young girl named Blessings goes missing, Maxine is determined to uncover the truth behind the abduction. Through her radio program “Bring Blessings Home,” she seeks to bring the missing girl back to safety.

According to her bio, Kristine Simelda’s writing focuses on cross-cultural experiences with “empathy, engagement, and respectful appropriation.” With numerous short fiction pieces published in regional and international journals, she has also authored three adult novels and three young adult novels under her imprint, River Ridge Press, Dominica. Her latest novel, “Rise Up, Sista,” a tale of enduring female friendship spanning 50 years, was released in November 2021 by TouchPoint Press in the U.S.

For those interested in exploring Simelda’s works, her books are available at Jays in Dominica, the Roseau Public Library, and on Amazon in both eBook and paperback formats following the Dominica launch. More information about the author and her works can be found on her website at www.kristinesimelda.com.