What happens when the drive to succeed professionally collides with ambitions of the heart? In The Lurking Place, James Eric Lowell, a young Black poet, strives to advance his career and extend his whirlwind romance with his white lover, Sophia. Set in New York City and Mexico during 1968-a time of political upheaval and social change-this cinematic page-turner captivates the reader with its richly drawn settings and unforgettable characters. Will James finish his manuscript and have his book published? Will Sophia stay with James or allow her family to reign in her passions?

An engaging new novel by African-American literary icon Clarence Major reveals personal and political parallels between the past and present.

"Major writes with great tenderness... crisp and lucid, the author offers a bracing and clear-eyed perspective on race."—Times Literary Supplement

"One of America's most gifted and versatile writers."—Library Journal
“Clarence Major has a remarkable mind and the talent to match.”—Toni Morrison
“…There is a cinematic quality to Major’s prose is consistently transporting…”—Mary Oliver
"Clarence Major is a consummate artist."—Ana Castillo