Tiffany L. Warren, a Maryland storyteller, highlights Black joy in her upcoming historical fiction novel, “Unexpected Diva.”

“This novel follows the rise to fame of the first Black primadonna, Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, better known by her stage name ‘Black Swan.’ “This period covers the first tours of North America and Great Britain between 1850 and 1854,” Warren said.

Taylor Greenfield was a real historical figure who was born on a plantation in Mississippi, freed in childhood, and later raised by the widow of his former enslaver in an abolitionist community in Philadelphia. According to Warren, Greenfield took music lessons and discovered her three-octave voice, which evolved from a deep baritone to a deafening soprano.

He added: “When Eliza’s inheritance left by her executor was challenged, she was left penniless with few options. At a time when the Fugitive Slave Act allowed slave traders to kidnap both free and fugitives, she did the unthinkable and pursued her vocal talent. A chance encounter with a socialite on a steamboat en route to Buffalo set things in motion, and Eliza sang all the way to Queen Victoria’s salon at Buckingham Palace. The story is so rich with intrigue, danger, romance, and of course the courage Eliza needs for this adventure. “I had the time of my life writing this story.”

Warren explained that the idea for her first historical biographical fiction novel came about while she was doing research for a future novel set to be released in 2026. In the process, he discovered WEB Du Bois’ record label, Black Swan Records. It is named after Taylor Greenfield.

“When I learned that it was named in honor of Elizabeth Taylor Greenfield, I consciously chose this story because it is lighthearted and non-traumatic. We have experienced enough trauma and assault on Black bodies and Black souls. This is the story of a Black girl pursuing Black art, experiencing Black love, finding Black joy, and existing in a world with many white people (true allies) who love and support her. He still finds strength in the black community. He’ll have it all, and everything’s good about it,” Warren said confidently.

A working mother of five grown children, a grandmother, and the wife of Brent Warren, a great supporter of his endeavors, Warren has written a variety of fiction, screenplays, and stage plays.

He added: “I even dabbled in poetry and rapped a bit when I was younger. All ways to tell a story. Executive producing films is another aspect of storytelling. It ensures you have the resources to tell your story on screen. Actors, locations and more. “They all work together.”

Writing is something Warren has loved since childhood. He has written more than thirty published books to date.

“According to my mother, I started reading at the age of four. As soon as I learned to write, I started creating my own stories. “I don’t remember not being a writer,” he said.

The novelist shared a tip for those looking to land a traditional publishing deal. He advised them to pursue their gifts and the story, not what’s trendy, what’s sold, or what they believe publishers want.

“Write the story your heart tells you to write,” Warren agreed.

During the promotion of her novel, and perhaps from this point forward, Warren decided to shed light on today’s unlikely divas standing on the shoulders of Taylor Greenfield. After posting a call to action on social media for young black opera singers, Warren said the response was overwhelming. Participants submitted videos of themselves singing and essays describing how Taylor Greenfield’s legacy impacted their lives. Warren will attend a performance of Scott Joplin’s “Treemonisha” at Morgan State University https://events.morgan.edu/event/scott-joplins-treemonisha To give flowers to some unexpected divas later this month.

“There are so many triumphant stories of Black joy that have yet to be told,” Warren said. “’Black Swan’ (Greenfield) was the ‘Beyonce of Antebellum.’ “He lived his life bravely and determinedly, and I am sure he did it in fear, but he emerged victorious!”

The official release date of “Unexpected Diva” is January 7, 2025. Warren noted that pre-order sales are continuing. A book with high pre-order quantities makes publishers and distributors realize that there is more demand for the book than they expected. Visit Ordering “Unexpected Diva” and www.tiffanylwarren.com To learn more about Warren.