SAMBA ROOTS & FAVELA TIES
SAMBA RISE
USA-BRAZIL PROJECT
THE DIVINE VOICE OF THE FAVELA
AUTHOR’S NOTE
This book is based on a true story that took place
in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in the 2020s. While the emotional core,
relationships, spiritual struggles, and key turning points reflect real
events, certain details—particularly those tied to sealed court records, private family matters, and protective orders—have been
fictionalized, altered, or dramatized to protect identities, comply
with legal privacy protections, and serve the narrative.
The mythic and spiritual elements (São Jorge, Oshun, curses, deliverance) are inspired by living Afro-Brazilian and Christian traditions
present in South Florida’s diverse communities. The courtroom
scenes capture the real atmosphere of Broward County justice,
even if specific proceedings remain confidential.
This is ultimately a story of love, betrayal, forgiveness, and the
breaking of cycles—drawn from life, shaped by art.
Paul Calvenzani
