With Love From Harlem by ReShonda Tate

Rating: 5 of 5 stars 

Duration: 13:48:00
Published: January 2026

Sometimes the best books come from trusted reader recommendations. A fellow reading buddy suggested I read With Love From Harlem by Reshonda Tate because she knew how much I enjoyed Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray and my overall love of historical fiction. I listened to this expertly produced audiobook (thanks Fort Worth Public Library!) and was completely engrossed for the nearly 14 hours. 

With Love From Harlem is a fictionalized account inspired by the life of Hazel Scott, a groundbreaking pianist, entertainer, and one of the most successful Black performers of her era. As a member of Harlem’s creative elite, Hazel brushed shoulders and knew the likes of James Baldwin, Billie Holliday, and Quincy Jones, just to name a few. She built an impressive career at a time when opportunities for Black women were severely limited. Through Hazel’s journey, ReShonda Tate brings readers into the vibrant world of Harlem’s cultural renaissance while also exposing racism, sexism, and societal expectations that threatened to diminish even the brightest stars. 

Early in the novel, Hazel meets the charismatic Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., the influential minister, politician, and civil rights leader. Despite the fact that he is married when their relationship begins, Powell quickly sweeps Hazel off her feet. Their courtship eventually leads to marriage, but it soon becomes clear that their ambitions are not equally valued. As was often expected during that time, Hazel is encouraged to make herself smaller to support her husband’s career and public image. Much of the novel’s tension stems from Hazel’s refusal to do so. She believes she is destined for greatness, while her husband, threatened by her success, continually tries to quiet her. Their relationship frustrated me to no end. And to top it off, Adam continued to be unfaithful to the women he pledged himself to. 

One of the aspects I truly appreciated in this novel was the glimpse into the lives of Black artists who found refuge in Europe, particularly Paris. Tate explores why so many talented Black creatives left the United States in search of opportunities and freedoms unavailable to them back home. These sections added valuable historical context and reminded me of the painful realities of segregation and discrimination in the U.S. My favorite part of the novel was the friendship between Hazel and Billie “Lady Day” Holiday. Both women faced extraordinary pressures and personal struggles. Their relationship added depth, and their scenes together were very touching and memorable. 

While Tate takes some creative liberties with the historical record, she does address them in her ending author’s note, which I appreciated. Even knowing that, this creativity helped bring Hazel Scott’s life much light. Shamefully, I didn’t know very much about her until my reading of this book, which appropriately sent me down a research rabbit hole to learn more. To me, that’s indicative of a great historical fiction novel – its ability to inspire reader to discover the real people behind the fiction. I am thankful for this novel that made Hazel Scott a hidden figure to me no more! 

Recommendation: I highly recommend this novel, especially as an audiobook. The narration was excellent and made an already compelling story even more engaging. Historical fiction has the power to illuminate our shared history, and this novel fits the bill perfectly. I couldn’t put it down, and I think you’ll be hard-pressed to as well. 

Until next time ... Read on!

Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or receive a book in exchange for review, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.