"Forty Acres is an absolutely enthralling thriller, one that also has the capacity to challenge the readers' perceptions of right and wrong. With supreme confidence and a mastery of storytelling, the author asks hard questions, provides no easy answers… But delivers maximum suspense. It’s an unforgettable work by an amazing new voice. Easily my favorite of the year."

– John Ridley, Academy Award-winning screenwriter of Twelve Years a Slave

"A thought-provoking novel that, like a wave, builds strength and intensity as it moves forward. Smith has done something special here using as his primary tools earnest, straightforward language and an eye and ear that probes bone-deep. This story will resonate long after the last page has fallen."

– David Baldacci, #1 New York Times bestselling author of King and Maxwell

"Wow! FORTY ACRES is a thriller in a class all by itself—brilliant and scary. The characters are masterfully well-drawn—Martin was so vulnerable and his confusion grew on me so that I ultimately cared and worried about him. I was on the edge of my seat!"

– Terry McMillan, New York Times bestselling author of Waiting to Exhale and Who Asked You?

"Top-grade suspense... [A] disturbingly powerful, well-wrought story."

– Booklist

“Bold… Entertaining… Intriguing.”

– Publishers Weekly

“On the surface this is a skillful re-imagining of John Grisham's "The Firm," but because Smith has made race an integral part of his narrative and its themes, he's elevated the book to a more layered read."

– Milwaukee Journal Sentinel