The literary world is celebrating a significant milestone as Elissa Gabrielle, founder of Peace In The Storm Publishing, commemorates two decades of literary excellence with a trifecta of achievements: the release of her new romance novel “Deja Vu,” a major audiobook deal with Recorded Books, and recognition at the prestigious African American Literary Awards.
Gabrielle’s forthcoming novel “Deja Vu,” scheduled for release in August 2025, tells the story of Deja Mitchell, described as Manhattan’s queen of communications, whose world is upended when she reconnects with DeVante Michaels, a man from her past. Set against a backdrop of jazz, power struggles, and passion, the novel explores themes of second chances and rediscovered love.
Award-winning playwright Rory D. Sheriff has praised the work, calling Gabrielle “an unparalleled master of storytelling” who “delivers a narrative as lyrical as jazz and as intoxicating as first love.” Author Lacha J. Barnes describes the novel as “vibrant, sensual, and utterly intoxicating—a love story that plays like your favorite song.”
The novel will be available in paperback, hardcover, and digital editions, with Carol Mackey of Recorded Books securing the audiobook rights, expanding the reach of Gabrielle’s storytelling to new audiences.
In a fitting tribute to her contributions to literature, Gabrielle will be honored at the 21st Annual African American Literary Awards Show on October 4th. “I am deeply humbled to be named an honoree,” Gabrielle shares. “This moment is more than a personal honor. It is a celebration of the legacy and divine purpose of Peace In The Storm Publishing. What began as a spark has become a sanctuary. A home for voices long overlooked. A movement rooted in faith, resilience, and the unshakable belief that our stories matter.”
For two decades, Elissa Gabrielle’s publishing house has been a beacon for authentic narratives that uplift and inspire. Her impact extends beyond her own writing, as she has nurtured countless writers and shaped a movement prioritizing faith, resilience, and purposeful storytelling.
Reflecting on her journey and upcoming recognition, Gabrielle states, “We’ve told the hard truths. We’ve poured beauty from brokenness. We’ve stood in storms—and still, we rise with peace in our pens and power in our purpose. To every author, reader, and believer who has walked this journey with me, with us, this honor belongs to you, too. Thank you for trusting the vision. Thank you for being part of the light.”
Gabrielle’s influence in the literary world is substantial. As a multi-award-winning author and publisher, she has published over 200 books and launched more than 25 literary careers. Beyond her publishing work, she serves as a college professor at a Historically Black College and University, sharing her wisdom with the next generation of writers and leaders.
Her creative output includes the “You Are Enough Series” written under the pen name Dr. Elissa Peterson, which affirms the worth and beauty of Black women, and “The Power Series,” which challenges readers to embrace personal transformation. Her novel “Eye of the Beholder” was recommended by USA TODAY, and she has been crowned Female Author of the Year by the African American Literary Awards.
In 2020, Gabrielle expanded her vision by launching Elissa Gabrielle Naturals, a brand focused on healing and holistic wellness, further demonstrating her commitment to nurturing not just the mind through literature, but the body and spirit as well.
As the acclaimed literary trailblazer celebrates this milestone year, her legacy of empowerment, enlightenment, and elevation continues to grow, touching countless lives through the power of authentic storytelling.