Review: Great Black Hope by Rob Franklin (Washington Post)

“Great Black Hope,” a promising debut novel by Rob Franklin, opens with its leading man being arrested for cocaine possession. It’s Labor Day weekend in the Hamptons, and Smith wears, “in his mug shot, a vintage Marni gingham shirt, loose-fit linen trousers, and a gently startled expression.” “Bark brown and quietly handsome,” he’s a young gay Black man from a respected Atlanta family with a job at an art-world start-up and a hyperactive New York City social life. A felony arrest, however, is not his only concern. Just weeks before, his friend and roommate Elle, the daughter of a ’90s neo-soul singer, was found dead in the Bronx under mysterious circumstances. Haunted by Elle’s death and worried about his upcoming arraignment, Smith reexamines his relationships with his race, sexuality, privilege, career and purpose.

For the review in full, visit The Washington Post.