**3-Star Review: *Forty Acres* by Dwayne Smith**

*Forty Acres* by Dwayne Smith is a provocative and daring thriller that explores race, power, and history in a unique and unsettling way. The story follows Martin Grey, a successful Black attorney who is invited to join an exclusive group of powerful Black men. What begins as an opportunity to network and learn quickly turns into something far more dangerous when Martin discovers the group’s shocking secret: they run a hidden society where Black men own white slaves, turning the tables on America’s historical racial dynamics.

The novel’s premise is undeniably bold and intriguing, and Smith raises important questions about justice, vengeance, and the legacy of slavery. The tension builds nicely in the first half of the book, as Martin navigates the moral and ethical dilemmas presented by the group. The pacing is fast, and the plot keeps you turning the pages, eager to see how far the story will go.

However, while the concept is powerful, the execution falters. Some of the characters feel one-dimensional, and the story's second half becomes increasingly implausible, stretching believability. The psychological and moral depth that could have made this a truly impactful story is missing.

Overall, *Forty Acres* is an entertaining thriller with an original premise, but it lacks the nuance and character development needed to fully explore its complex themes.