The Wergild

Set in Verlin Bluffs, Nebraska, "The Wergild" explores a century-old Black funeral home's unique register, where each entry holds more than just a name—delving into themes of death, debt, and justice. Spanning from 1919 to 2026, the story connects historical and mythical elements rooted in old laws of retribution and payment for killing, inspired by the ancient epic Beowulf. The novel examines the weight of bearing a name and the enduring consequences of secrets kept and debts owed.