Dickie is an African American historical fiction author, born in Detroit, Michigan and now living in California. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, Dickie began a law career devoted to representing the elderly and disadvantaged.
The hypocrisy and incomprehensible system of slavery, and the plantations that benefitted, became something of an obsession and a story that needed to be told.
"ANTEBELLUM STRUGGLES" is the first in a three-part series that details the intertwined relationships of a myriad of characters in the 1850's Deep South. After toiling in the Colonel's sugar cane fields, Amana’s brought into his mansion as a house servant for the Colonel and his wife, Collette. Collette's suspicions and jealousies arise, but are tempered from the guilt of her own infidelity. The field slave, Tabari, finally escapes but is hunted by two saddle tramps and the law. Throughout it all, the scalawag Doctor disrupts everyone's lives, managing to line his own pockets all the while. Set in and around New Orleans, this deeply moving tale of scandal, sex, and suspense follows the voyages of these very different characters in the 1850s.
"KEEPER OF SLAVES" (Book Two of the Antebellum Series) continues the story of these rich and diverse characters, with compelling and moving tales of the Underground Railroad, the Fugitive Slave Act, escape, freedom, lust and love. The lives of the plantation owner, Colonel Trent Winters, his wife, Collette, the slaves, Tabari and Amana, and the myriad of other characters continue in this moving tale of slavery, lust and freedom. Their impacts on the lives of citizens come to life in the 1850s era, set in New Orleans and the Deep South.
"SLAVES OF FOOLS" (Book Three of the Antebellum Series) A surprising and suspenseful conclusion to the Antebellum Series, to be sure! The saga of the plantation owners, their slaves, and a myriad of other characters is revealed in meticulous detail. Their individual, and sometimes collective, trials and tribulations are brought to life in this moving tale of riches, betrayal, and suspense.
A SPY'S EYES: Rachael's Story" is a deeply moving tale of Rachael, the interracial daughter of a wealthy cotton plantation owner. The Nation's in turmoil as the great Civil War rages, and Rachael is determined to enter the fray as a spy in the Confederacy's secret service. She moves to Washington D.C., where she infiltrates the inner circles of the Union army, beguiling its officers into divulging military secrets she can use to aid the South in its crusade to maintain slavery and its way of life. Plot twists abound, and her journey leads her to a deeper understanding of the war and the men and women who are willing to die for their competing causes.
"VENUS' STORY: A Story of One Slave's Survival" is an African American historical novel set in Virginia 1858. Venus’ trials and tribulations are both entertaining and frightening, as she’s sold from one plantation owner to the next, some kind and some cruel. The lives of two other slaves, separate but intertwined, unfold through the Underground Railroad, and the Christian abolitionists who risk their own lives to help others to freedom. Both educational and enlightening, Venus’ Story captures the stark realities of slavery and the relentless pursuit to end this atrocious chapter in our Nation’s history.
"THE ADVENTURES OF SUNNY WASHINGTON - Book One" Five Star Reviews - READERS' FAVORITE by K.C. Finn:
Author Dickie Erman holds nothing back in this rich historical novel which will educate readers not only on the brutal facts of American history but also deliver a deep lesson in empathy as a result of its extensive emotional development. I found the descriptive quality of the novel to be cinematic in its commitment to creating scenery, but it also goes beyond just the visual to give a real visceral sense of what it must have been like to feel your heart pounding in your ears as you fear for your life in every tense moment. Overall, The Adventures of Sunny Washington is an intelligently crafted work of historical fiction deeply rooted in cold hard facts, with innovative uses of description and narrative to bring a heartfelt tale to life. A highly recommended read indeed.
"THE ADVENTURES OF SUNNY WASHINGTON - Book Two" Five Star Reviews - READERS' FAVORITE by Alija Turkovic:
The Adventures of Sunny Washington is an engaging, dramatic tale filled with realistic and well-developed characters. This novel is an exceptional work of historical fiction, deeply grounded in facts, vivid imagery, and evocative dialogue. Dickie Erman skillfully combines these elements to bring Sunny's profound story to life. I appreciate that Erman did not hold back from portraying slavery as accurately as possible. Fans of historical fiction, especially readers who prefer a blend of drama and romance in their novels, will enjoy this intriguing read. Overall, I found this a captivating story!
