Fletcher Dukes and Altovise Benson reunite after decades apart, confronting a mountain of secrets in this debut that delves into the impact of a single choice and the power of a family talisman. During a routine visit to the Piggly Wiggly in Albany, Georgia, widower Fletcher is struck by the scent of a familiar perfume and recognizes Altovise, his lost love, marked by a strawberry birthmark. Their once-promising bond, forged through shared experiences like county fairs and peaceful protests, was shattered when a demonstration turned violent, forcing Altovise to flee the South. Before her departure, Fletcher gifted Altovise a peach seed monkey with diamond eyes, a significant break from tradition. This talisman, first carved by an enslaved ancestor in South Carolina, has been passed down through generations of Dukeses on their thirteenth birthdays. Fletcher's decision to give one to Altovise altered the course of their lives and the family legacy. Now, living on his seven acres with his daughter Florida’s support and his loyal dog, Fletcher grapples with his past choices. As he confronts unspoken truths, he realizes he is not alone in carrying the weight of their shared history. This poignant narrative captures the essence of family, illustrating how legacies of sorrow, joy, and resilience are passed down, and how even the smallest glimmer of hope can resonate through generations.
