Urban Vine Media

What happens when an abused and codependent man becomes entangled with an independent woman? And more profoundly—what happens when a woman chooses a partner whom God did not choose for her?

Maria McKenzie explores these difficult questions in her debut novel Gunshot Wedding, a gripping and emotionally layered story centred on Bahamian protagonist Elise Sturrup and her complex relationship with Bahamian Sandrington Richardson.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of The Bahamas, the novel is a fictionalised retelling inspired by the life of the author’s parents. Through this deeply personal narrative, McKenzie unpacks the psychological and spiritual consequences of abuse—not only on the victim but also on those forced to live within its realms.

Deeply rooted in Christian values, Gunshot Wedding examines what can happen when emotions override discernment and when divine guidance is ignored in matters of love and marriage. The story reflects on the dangers of entering relationships outside of God’s will and the generational impact such decisions can create.

While the novel addresses heavy themes such as trauma, codependency, post-traumatic stress disorder, and generational cycles of abuse, it is intentionally written to resonate with teenagers and young adults. It serves as both a cautionary tale and a guide—helping young readers navigate complex relationships while recognising how unhealed trauma can shape behaviour and perpetuate harm.

At its core, the book is a testament to survival, spiritual reflection, recovery, and hope. It stands as a beacon for abuse survivors and a thoughtful resource for those seeking wisdom before making life-altering relational choices.

The novel also honours McKenzie’s mother, whose last name she used in her pseudonym as well—adding another layer of emotional tribute and personal significance to the work.

Currently pursuing an Associate Degree in Computer Coding at The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), McKenzie draws richly from her Caribbean heritage, with a Jamaican mother and Bahamian father shaping her cultural perspective. A committed Christian, she views her creative gifts as tools not only for artistic expression but also for Christ-like service.

If you’d like to own a copy of Mckenzie’s book, they’re available both in the Kindle and Paperback format on Amazon.

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Written by K L Williams

Kerece Lilanie Williams is a poet and educator, and the author of three poetry collections published under the name Lilanie: Kisses and Lies, Above Water, and Faith and Favour: Odes of Gratitude for Unmerited Grace. She contributes her writing to Urban Vine Media, a creative initiative that fosters intellectual conversations around arts, culture, and entertainment in Jamaica and the diaspora.

She is also the founder of Write Ah Yaad, a vibrant writing community for Caribbean poets and storytellers, and the Chief “Copy Cat” behind MeowMedia Services, a platform helping creative entrepreneurs create and build their brands—because kats roar with MeowMedia.