Jerry Reece

I grew up in Barbados during the 1970s. At the time, the island was the only world I truly knew beyond what I saw on television and in the movies. My life there was both complicated and joyful, filled with family, friends, and the simple happiness of childhood.

When I was eleven years old, my family immigrated to the United States. The transition was both exciting and overwhelming, as I adjusted to a new country, a different culture, and a completely new way of life. It wasn't always easy, but over time I found my place and embraced the opportunities that America had to offer. I remain deeply grateful for the life I've built in the United States.

Yet, no matter where life took me, Barbados never stopped feeling like home. Throughout my teenage years, I returned every summer to reconnect with my family, lifelong friends, and the rich culture that helped shape who I am. Even at a young age, I understood the importance of preserving that bond with the island that would always hold a special place in my heart.

Now, at 57, I live in the New York–Connecticut region of the United States. I spent most of my life in New York, yet my ties to Barbados remain as strong as ever.

The Widower is a psychological thriller born from an overactive imagination and inspired by the many journeys I've made back to Barbados over the years. Woven throughout the story are the places, landscapes, and experiences that have become deeply familiar to me through countless visits to the island I cherish. While the novel is, at its heart, a love story between two fictional characters, it is also a heartfelt tribute to the island nation that has always held a special place in my heart.

I hope you enjoy, The Widower.