Seventeen-year-old Ruby arrives home to find that her father has fallen down a flight of stairs. After he dies, Ruby tries to hold the pieces of her life together, while her mother Cristina recalls her marriage and compares it to her mother Lina’s. 

J. Bella  M. explores the impact of intergenerational trauma on this family, revealing a web of disfunction and violence. Shadows Fade is a bittersweet tale which gives voice to three women and their life choices as defined by cultural demands, family obligations, and economic challenges.

About the Author

The author lives in Queens, New York with her husband. She has two grown children and two grandchildren. A former teacher, she currently spends her time writing, and pursuing various forms of art. 

J. Bella M. published Symphonic Ritual, a poetry chapbook in 2023. Shadows Fade is her debut novel.