Press release A sweeping saga begins in A String of Silver Beads from Melissa Addey August 4, 2025

One empire rising. One woman’s journey to freedom. One story you won’t forget.

London, August 2025 – dp books is proud to announce the signing of historical fiction author Melissa Addey and the upcoming release of A String of Silver Beads, the captivating first novel in her new  Moroccan Empire series, now available for pre-order.

Set in 11th-century North Africa, A String of Silver Beads follows a young Berber woman hungry for freedom, purpose and a life beyond the limits of tradition. Forbidden from racing camels or traveling the trade routes, she marries a rising warrior, Yusuf bin Tashfin, who dreams of uniting an empire across Morocco and Spain. But when she finds herself at odds with his powerful queen consort, her dreams of adventure turn into a bitter rivalry that will shape the future of a dynasty.

Inspired by Addey’s travels to Morocco and the intricate symbolism of Berber jewellery, each chapter of A String of Silver Beads reflects a stage in the heroine’s journey – an intimate, layered portrait of identity and choice. Through this series Addey shares she wishes people “to have courage – when you know who you are and what you want, stick to it, don’t let other people change your direction.”

A richly textured blend of historical accuracy and emotional depth, Addey’s writing has earned praise from both readers and critics. Discovering Diamonds called the novel “an exquisite book,” while the Historical Novel Society hailed it as “evocative and intriguing.”

A String of Silver Beads is now available for pre-order on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited. Official release is set for 14th August – we can’t wait for you to explore the origins of the Moroccan Empire through the eyes of unforgettable women.

Want to learn more about Melissa Addey and the series? Click here to discover the Moroccan Empire Series and meet the latest voice in the dp family.