Memphis

A woman on the run. A family with secrets. A past that refuses to let go.

Memphis Monroe has spent ten years surviving her marriage.

Trapped with a violent husband in 1970s Nashville, she's learned to stay quiet, keep the peace, and endure—for the sake of her young son. But when her husband's rage crosses a line she can't ignore, Memphis is forced to make an impossible choice:

Stay and risk losing everything… or run and risk it all.

With nothing but her son and a stolen moment of courage, Memphis flees in her husband's prized Mustang—heading for Los Angeles and a chance at a life she's never been allowed to imagine.

But freedom isn't simple.

As Memphis begins to find her voice—and even the possibility of love—her past refuses to stay buried. The secrets that shaped her childhood begin to surface, and the two people she fears most are closing in.

Because her husband isn't done with her.

And neither is the truth.

Memphis is a gripping domestic thriller about survival, generational trauma, and the cost of breaking free—set against the backdrop of 1970s America and the fight for control over one's own life.

Memphis is the first book in a gripping crime family trilogy series exploring the dark legacy of the Freedman family, with future installments diving deeper into Johnny and Doris's stories.

"An aspiring singer struggles to leave her narcissistic, abusive husband in this folksy, enthralling thriller. Kirkus praises Cormier's flawless use of multiple perspectives, complex characters, and the nuanced portrayal of Johnny's toxicity. Full of twists, turns, and desperation, this is an enthralling and sensitive work of crime fiction."
— Kirkus Reviews

"A gripping and evocative domestic thriller, Memphis is a must-read. Told through raw and intimate prose, it explores the deep complexities of domestic violence, control, family dysfunction, generational trauma, motherhood, deception, betrayal, and resilience. Holly May Cormier delivers a poignant and unforgettable tale of survival and strength."
— Readers' Favorite Review

"The character development is exceptional. Memphis's transformation from a life of control and fear to one of strength and autonomy is beautifully crafted. Cormier skillfully explores the roots of abuse, generational trauma, and redemption. Memphis is a powerful and worthwhile read for anyone drawn to stories of women's resilience and renewal."
— Reedsy Discovery Review