Within academic and literary marketplaces that rarely mention bisexual, non-binary, polyamorous, or working-class experiences and perspectives, Palmetto Rose offers to a chance to take a walk with members of each of these groups in the context of Atlanta in the early 2000's.

J. E. Sumerau is an assistant professor of sociology at the University of Tampa. Their writing focuses on sexualities, gender, religion, and health in relation to societal patterns of violence and inequalities. They are also the author of five previous novels - Cigarettes & Wine, Essence, Homecoming Queens, That Year, and Other People's Oysters (with Alexandra C.H. Nowakowski).