Zahra Lafayette fulfilled her obligations during the Civil War by spying for General Grant. Retired and frustrated by his unfulfilled promises to her family, Zahra wants to refuse his latest request. However, on the slim chance that he'll give her family farmland, Zahra agrees to masquerade as a brothel madam in New Orleans. She'll ferret out information on political factions and determine who's stirring the unrest. Discovering Archer Le Veq, a man she rescued in the war, stirs a passion within her.

Archer, a Creole of color and the owner of New Orleans' finest hotel, attempts to keep track of the turmoil and quickly changing political climate. His wealth and education aided him in the post-reconstruction. However, he could lose everything in the current hostile environment. As a rogue who once sported three mistresses, Archer contends with only one as he keeps track of the turmoil. The first black Lieutenant Governor dies under mysterious circumstances, raising tensions among the Black Republicans. Southern groups like the White Camelia and the Ku Klux Klan terrorize the countryside, pitting white against black.

The arrival of a beautiful and mysterious woman diverts Archer's attention, especially when she reminds him of someone. Zahra hopes he doesn't remember her as the person who rescued him from certain death. Their encounter had been brief and in the dead of night. But, Zahra can't afford to be recognized. The chemistry between them flairs and as danger stalks Zahra, Archer is drawn further into the intrigue.

WINDS OF THE STORM, a sequel to the popular THROUGH THE STORM, will please old and new fans of this author. Ms. Jenkins gives a fascinating glimpse into reconstruction history filled with facts and tidbits known only to serious scholars. Paired with the romance between two larger-than- life figures, this story will haunt readers as the lovers battle injustices knowing they'll meet limited success.