Books like Rhode Island red by Charlotte Carter

Nanette Carter keeps her saxophone close as she plays for passers‑by in the bustling streets of New York. Her life takes a sharp turn when an undercover cop is found dead in her apartment, sparking a baffling investigation. A stranger approaches Nanette, asking her to unravel a mystery tied to the legendary Charlie Parker, adding layers of intrigue to her already complex world. As Nanette tries to prevent her music career from being eclipsed by danger, her boyfriend Walter insists on taking their relationship to the next level. The tension between personal ambition and romantic expectations leads Nanette into a suspenseful quest that tests her skills as a musician, a confidante, and an unassuming sleuth. Set against the backdrop of New York’s vibrant streets and rich jazz heritage, the novel blends mystery, cultural identity, and the everyday challenges faced by African‑American women in contemporary urban life.

First publish date: 1999