Hate & Love In the Context

After a messy and cunning break up, Hope Sawyer transfers to Howard University in search of a fresh start. To find her blackness and to be seen for who she truly is. No more hiding behind a facade. Went she settles in to her new school, she quickly reconnects with her childhood best friend, Zola Vasquez, and is introduced to a tight-knit circle that includes Zola's loyal boyfriend, Chase, and a dynamic pair of twins, Zoe and Chloe. In their African American History class, Hope meets Dru Baylee-an overconfident but closed off individual.
When Hope and Dru are paired for a class project, a violent attack turns their world upside down. What was supposed to be a simple assignment becomes a life-threatening encounter that leaves them both traumatized and forever bonded. As they navigate the aftermath-battling depression, PTSD, and paranoia-they lean on each other while trying to piece together the mystery of who targeted them... and why.
Though moments of humor, friendship, and love shine through, this story tackles weighty and often painful realities-including sexual assault, child abuse, gun violence, racism, homophobia, addiction, self identity, and the complexities of modern politics. It's a raw, emotional journey of healing, survival, and uncovering dark truths in unexpected places.