SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — In Love is a Journey. Not a Destination, author Darryl E. Moss crafts a vivid, heartfelt portrait of Black love, family, and the complex interplay between vulnerability and strength. The novel follows the life of Jabari Ali Washington, a legislative consultant whose journey is as textured as the communities he serves.
Set against the backdrop of Black History Month, the story navigates themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. At 53, Jabari is a father to six children, a steadfast community leader, and a man grappling with the shadows of two failed relationships. His professional life thrives, yet his heart remains guarded—until he meets Imani, a spoken-word artist and historian who challenges him to confront his fears and redefine love.
“Love is not a destination,” Jabari reflects in one of the book’s many introspective moments. “It is the journey we take with others and within ourselves.”
Moss weaves a narrative that is at once intimate and universal, offering readers a window into Jabari’s world, where poetry and prose intermingle seamlessly. The novel is punctuated by spoken-word verses that capture pivotal moments, enriching the emotional depth and resonance of Jabari’s story.
A Celebration of Black Love and Legacy
At its core, Love is a Journey. Not a Destination is a celebration of Black love in all its forms—romantic, familial, and communal. Moss delves into the intricacies of Jabari’s relationships, from his amicable co-parenting arrangement with Vanessa, his high-powered ex-wife, to his evolving connection with Imani, who awakens a part of Jabari he thought was lost.
The Washington children—Latonya, Treshawn, Chaerys, Zuri, Zai, and Nile—add further dimension to the story. Each child brings a unique perspective and energy, reflecting the kaleidoscope of experiences that shape a modern Black family.
A Rich Tapestry of Themes
Moss’s narrative explores more than just relationships; it delves into legacy, community, and the power of storytelling. Jabari’s journey is intertwined with the memory of his father, who passed away from cancer before Jabari’s birth, and the resilience of his mother, who instilled in him the value of purpose and perseverance.
Moss’s prose is lyrical and evocative, with moments of poetry that serve as both a narrative device and an emotional anchor. Lines such as “Love rebuilds what the world has broken, and makes the shattered whole once more” reflect the profound truths that resonate throughout the novel.
About the Author
Darryl E. Moss is an accomplished author and storyteller whose work captures the richness and complexities of Black culture and identity. Based in Springfield, Massachusetts, Moss draws from his experiences as a community leader and advocate, infusing his stories with authenticity and heart. Love is a Journey. Not a Destination is a testament to Moss’s ability to illuminate universal truths through deeply personal narratives.
Availability
The book will be available for purchase through major retailers, local bookstores, and online platforms.
