Sundays in Suwanee series continues with author whose book is set to become Netflix show

Deanna Allen

3 years ago

Gwinnett County Public Library’s Sundays in Suwanee series is welcoming an award-winning Atlanta author whose novel “Island Queen” is set to become a Netflix series.

Vanessa Riley will discuss her book beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 20, at the Suwanee library branch at 361 Main St.

“Island Queen” is a historical fiction novel based on the life story of Dorothy “Doll” Kirwan Thomas, a Caribbean woman who was born into slavery in 1756 and later bought her freedom from her Irish planter father. She went on to become one of the wealthiest and most powerful landowners in the Caribbean in the early 1800s, owning a luxury hotel and managing a sugar plantation.

The director of the hit Netflix series “Bridgerton,” Julie Anne Robinson, an Emmy nominee, is set to helm “Island Queen” alongside “Bridgerton” actress Adjoa Andoh, who will serve as executive producer. Andoh narrates the “Island Queen” audiobook.

In an interview with entertainment new site Deadline, Robinson said, “Vanessa has crafted a groundbreaking and inspiring story that vividly depicts the remarkable life of Dorothy Thomas. We are so excited to be bringing it to the screen, and I could not be happier to have this opportunity to continue the collaboration with Adjoa that began on ‘Bridgerton.’”

According to her website, “Vanessa Riley is an award-winning author of historical fiction showcasing the hidden histories of women of color and emphasizing strong sisterhoods and dazzling multicultural communities. Her works encompass biographical and historical women’s fiction, historical romance, and historical mystery.”

Riley has authored more than 20 novels, including several book series. Learn more about Riley here.

Books will be available for sale and signing at the Sundays in Suwanee event.