Sanctified Blues: A Novel [Paperback]

Albertina Merci, a talented R&B singer, toured with Ray Charles, James Brown, and Wilson Pickett—until the fateful night her voice gave out in front of a sold-out crowd. Encouraged by her fans, she offered a little speech in praise of Jesus instead of a song. Her spontaneous words became the seed of “Sanctified Blues,” a song that soon captured the hearts of millions and gave Albertina the financial security to follow her true calling as an evangelist—sharing the Gospel with those in need of spiritual comfort.

Sanctified Blues is the story of Albertina’s encounter with Maggie Clay, the biracial beauty who is TV’s reigning diva. A sudden mystery surrounding Maggie has the entire country wondering: Is Maggie having a nervous breakdown, and if so, why? What caused it? And who can save the star from self-destruction?

Sanctified Blues kicks off a series about a former R&B singer turned full-time minister who’s full of spice and advice. When the Lord works in mysterious ways, it’s up to Pastor Albertina Merci to find out why…MABLE JOHN was the first female recording artist for Motown, the lead “Raelette” for Ray Charles from 1968–1976, and a successful solo artist for Stax/Volt. She’s now an ordained minister with a doctorate in counseling. DAVID RITZ is coauthor of Howling at the Moon and the author of biographies of Marvin Gaye and jazz singer Jimmy Scott. He has also coauthored autobiographies of Ray Charles, B.B. King, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson, and other musicians. He lives in Los Angeles, California.

1. What are some of Albertina’s favorite scriptures? How do they provide guidance for Albertina and others during the course of the narrative?

2. How does Cindy’s illness affect th