Citi of Books Highlights “Priscilla: Engaging in the Game of Politics” by M.J. Simms-Maddox, Ph.D. at LIBER Feria Internacional del Libro 2026

M.J. Simms-Maddox, Ph.D., is both the author and publisher of the novel, bringing a unique perspective to her storytelling through her background as a political science professor and legislative aide. Her academic expertise and firsthand experience in legislative environments allow her to portray the realities of political life with remarkable authenticity. Drawing inspiration from her own professional journey and insights into the political landscape, Simms-Maddox crafts a narrative that blends personal growth with the intricacies of political power.

Politics is rarely just a theory—it is a game of ambition, identity, and power played in the real world. That idea lies at the heart of “Priscilla: Engaging in the Game of Politics” by M. J. Simms-Maddox, an engaging political drama now being introduced to the global publishing community at the London Book Fair. Among the many books on display, this story stands out for its thoughtful blend of political realism, personal reflection, and social insight. For readers exploring the fair’s collection of fiction, the novel offers an intriguing look at the intersection of ambition, identity, and power.

The story introduces readers to Priscilla J. “PJ” Austin, a bright and ambitious young assistant professor of political science who finds her life taking an unexpected turn. When her father—a Methodist minister and experienced politician—encourages her to move closer to home, Priscilla reconnects with a state senator she once interned for. Accepting his offer to become his legislative aide leads her into the bustling and often unforgiving world of Ohio state politics.

As Priscilla steps into the legislative arena, she quickly realizes that academic knowledge alone cannot prepare her for the complexities of political life. Working in an environment largely dominated by men, she must navigate subtle and overt challenges tied to gender and race while learning how influence, alliances, and personal relationships shape the decisions made behind the scenes of government.

At the same time, the novel delves into Priscilla’s personal history, exploring the experiences that shaped her outlook—from her family roots in the segregated South to the racial and social tensions she encountered growing up in upstate New York. These experiences continue to influence her inner world as she confronts political scandal, personal uncertainty, and the pressure of proving her worth in a system not designed with her success in mind.

At its heart, “Priscilla: Engaging in the Game of Politics” is more than a political novel — it’s a coming-of-age story about strength, identity, and navigating systems that are historically resistant to change. Through Priscilla’s eyes, readers experience not only the challenges of politics but the nuanced journey of becoming a leader who refuses to be defined by others’ expectations.

With its focus on international business, professional networking, and the expansion of Spanish-language publishing into European and Latin American markets, LIBER provides a setting where these connections can take shape.

Citi of Books at LIBER Feria Internacional del Libro 2026 — bringing every book into an international publishing community where stories can find new connections, new possibilities, and new readers.