When a copper deposit is discovered on the land of the Makenda tribe in eastern Kenya, a young king, Ule Samanga, is told to relocate his people to a refugee camp in Nairobi or risk imprisonment. When all appears lost, the young king discovers the existence of Curtis Jackson, a mysterious half brother presently living in New York. Believing this unexpected news to be an omen from the spirit of his ancestors, he eagerly seeks Curtis's help to save their sacred tribal homeland. A struggling mortgage broker and former jazz prodigy, Curtis initially has no interest in developing a relationship with his newly found African family. But when he's presented with an intriguing business offer, he embarks on a journey to Africa that becomes a spiritual odyssey, changing him in ways he never imagined. In this assured debut, Richard Crystal weaves a complex story of contemporary moral imperatives conceived during Obama's victorious election as America's first black president. Themes of corporate malfeasance and exploitation will resonate with readers of The Constant Gardener and Blood Diamond. But beyond the various political machinations, readers will find a heartwarming story infused with the strains of Coltrane, the history of jazz, and the enduring power of family.
"Mr. Crystal has fashioned a tale of virtue and vice in the modern world. It deals with corporate greed, the politics of today's African economic scene and how they test the people who have to make their living in that environment. And it's all backed by the mellow sounds of modern jazz. I'm sure it will intrigue all."
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, legendary basketball star, author, and jazz aficionado
"From the streets of New York to a remote tribal village in Kenya, A Reign Supreme is a moody, intriguing and emotional story. Our hero's journey from teenage jazz prodigy, to a man haunted by his past, to accepting his surprising fate of heritage, is a terrific read. I'm not just Richard Crystal's brother, I'm his fan."
Billy Crystal
"As you read A Reign Supreme you will wonder if the author is a jazz musician from the streets of New York or was raised in a village in Kenya. The language of the characters is perfect and real. The descriptions of locations are both factual and extremely visual. Richard Crystal takes you on an adventure involving family loyalty, greed, life changing decisions and much, much more. Something for e
