tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276511032024-03-13T00:00:02.246-04:00Gwyneth's BlogReading and Writing African American RomanceGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.comBlogger281125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-57533520947008222482008-06-26T18:31:00.000-04:002008-06-26T18:35:11.027-04:00Moved to Word PressIt's official. I'll no longer be posting here. <br /><br />I've moved. You can now find Gwyneth's Blog on Word Press. <br /><br />It's been real, Blogger!<br /><br />You can find my new blog here:<br /><br /><li><a href="http://gwynethbolton.com/blog">http://gwynethbolton.com/blog</li></a><br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com74tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-75568920513869960462008-06-20T13:46:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:11.713-05:00Back with more reviews...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFvtRLUJnHI/AAAAAAAAAsw/_q3M3KedaWE/s1600-h/ProtectandServe.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFvtRLUJnHI/AAAAAAAAAsw/_q3M3KedaWE/s200/ProtectandServe.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214021872962346098" /></a><br /><br />I made it back from lovely Urbana, IL this afternoon. I'm so tired I need at least a three hour nap. Traveling can be so taxing... :-) Anyway, I found out about two more great reviews for <i> Protect and Serve </i>. APOOO gave it 4 Stars. Here's a snippet of the review:<br /><br /><i> Protect and Serve </i> was a real life story that answered the question of whether home is really where the heart is. Bolton addressed many issues that suddenly pop up while preparing for a funeral and some issues that families simply try to hide and not discuss. The story was funny, a bit of a mystery and romantic. Once you meet the Hightower family, I am sure you will look forward to reading the other books in the series. ~ Priscilla C. Johnson, APOOO Book Club 4 Stars<br /><br />And The Real Page Turners gave it 5 Stars! Here's a snippet of the review: <br /><br />Bolton proves why she is an award-winning author in this captivating story. She stirs in dangers of the hood, mixes in a little dysfunctional family spice, and peppers the story with the breakdown of friendships which cooks up a sensual love story. The characters add to the recipe by using strong emotions that will unveil family secrets that will either tear them apart or bring them together. As in most African American families, Big Mama's spirit helps them - to forgive each other, overcome prideful spirits and love as families should. <i> Protect and Serve </i> is the first part in the Hightower Honors series and if this is any indication of future installments…they are must haves for any romance lover. ~ Deltareviewer, The Real Page Turners Reviewers, 5 Stars<br /><br />Check out the wonderful review here and leave a comment if you get a chance:<br /><br /><li><a href="http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=88790481&blogID=407188107">The Real Page Turners Review of PROTECT AND SERVE</li></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFvuTdmp7LI/AAAAAAAAAs4/A-EJ2XGFtZE/s1600-h/thelawofdesire.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFvuTdmp7LI/AAAAAAAAAs4/A-EJ2XGFtZE/s200/thelawofdesire.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5214023011743165618" /></a><br />And the third Hightower book is available for pre-order on Amazon.com. Just in case you can't stand to wait. LOL. You can pre-order your copy here:<br /><br /><li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Law-Desire-Kimani-Romance/dp/0373860943/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213984411&sr=1-8">Pre-Order The Law of Desire</li></a><br /><br />Now it's time for a little nap...<br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-74626006643255685772008-06-17T08:14:00.000-04:002008-06-17T08:16:02.576-04:00TravelingI'll be gone for a minute. I'm headed to Urbana, IL for work-related travel. I'll check in when I'm back later this weekend. Have fun while I'm gone...<br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-57235013251994380222008-06-16T01:18:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:11.849-05:00Three new reviews for PROTECT AND SERVE!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFX4tmIQo6I/AAAAAAAAAso/apvLDH7hZm8/s1600-h/ProtectandServe.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFX4tmIQo6I/AAAAAAAAAso/apvLDH7hZm8/s320/ProtectandServe.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212345605964211106" /></a><br /><br /><i> Protect and Serve </i> is a powerful story about truth and drama in the 'hood.' Ms. Bolton captures the primal essence of the hopelessness prevailing in the inner city while showing the strengths of family, spirituality and love that is essential in overcoming that hopelessness. A truly beautiful love story that will keep you captivated until the end. ~ Lani Roberts, Affaire de Coeur Magazine<br /><br />A well written book with thwarted love and a little mystery thrown into the mix, <i> Protect and Serve </i> is a sensual romance with which to while away a pleasant afternoon. The romantic tension and sizzle when Penny and Jason are in the same room make this a book a romance that readers won’t want to miss. ~ Marilyn Heyman, Romance Reviews Today<br /><br />Gwyneth Bolton masterfully handles some serious social issues in <i> Protect and Serve </i> without allowing them to overpower the romance.<br />~ Debbie R. Sims, Romantic Times Book ReviewGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-69109751685746078272008-06-15T01:14:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:12.235-05:00Happy Father's Day<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFSmHdB_G_I/AAAAAAAAAsg/WqzqgY2eOXo/s1600-h/Father%26Child.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFSmHdB_G_I/AAAAAAAAAsg/WqzqgY2eOXo/s400/Father%26Child.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211973315756760050" /></a><br /><br /><br /><b> John Pough </b><br />August 17, 1946 - May 4, 2003<br /><i> I always loved you more than you knew. Rest in peace, Daddy. </i><br /><br /><object width="325" height="244"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/UjKRuX4YBQQ&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/UjKRuX4YBQQ&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="325" height="244"></embed></object><br /><br /><b> Luther Vandross, "Dance With My Father Again" </b><br /><br />Happy Father's Day, everyone. If you are blessed enough to have your father still here, give him a hug and appreciate the time.<br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-81022825167530691342008-06-12T00:03:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:12.439-05:00Throwback Thursdays<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFCgYb-U9EI/AAAAAAAAArA/gckrCSqyPb8/s1600-h/36466.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SFCgYb-U9EI/AAAAAAAAArA/gckrCSqyPb8/s320/36466.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210841110554145858" /></a><br /><br />Deniece Williams has one of those voices that calls to mind all that is sweet and good and pure. I swear it sounds like the clearest of chimes and bells. I've been a fan of her music ever since I was a kid. "Silly" got me through many a grammar school crush... In high school, "Free" seemed like the perfect thing to be when a relationship I thought was going to last forever came to that parting fork in the road. "Let's Hear it for the Boy"... "Black Butterfly"... "It's Gonna Take a Miracle"... I could go on and on listing songs of hers that I love. I wish I could hit those high notes like her. Here's a live performance of "Free."<br /><br /><object width="325" height="244"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Zu0tt20UJag&hl=en"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Zu0tt20UJag&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="325" height="244"></embed></object><br /><br /><b> Free </b><br /><br />Do you remember Deniece Williams? What songtress from the 80s did you love? I could probably add folks like Stacy Lattisaw, Gwen Gunthrie, Shirley Murdock and many more. But Deniece Williams will always be high on my list of female vocalists with voices that just take you there. Who's on your list?<br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com314tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-68025736189083367342008-06-10T15:52:00.000-04:002008-06-10T15:59:28.273-04:00Links: Big Girls Need Love TooCheck out K. D. King's hilarious post on Big Girls in romance. I have to say I feel challenged to write more big girl heroines after reading it. It's laugh out loud funny and thought provoking to boot. Check it out and join the conversation over on her blog, No Sex in the Metro.<br /><br /><li><a href="http://nosexinthemetro.blogspot.com/2008/06/big-girls-need-love-too-rub-my-damn.html">Big Girls Need Love Too, K. D. King</li></a>Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-50521797287251431562008-06-09T01:53:00.002-04:002008-12-10T18:32:12.669-05:00Are You Listening To...<b> Algebra Blessett </b><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEzFusC1nCI/AAAAAAAAAp8/dO2lAaaUUlc/s1600-h/41hVd8hsl5L._SS500_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEzFusC1nCI/AAAAAAAAAp8/dO2lAaaUUlc/s320/41hVd8hsl5L._SS500_.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5209756274848537634" /></a><br /><br />If not... you really should be. Her voice is amazing. Her lyrics meaningful and soul-stirring... I could go on and on about how much I'm feeling her debut. I knew I would love her when I heard the single "U Do It For Me" last year. So I anxiously awaited the CD.<br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AJ1MNF4SdMk&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/AJ1MNF4SdMk&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="255"></embed></object><br /><br /><b> U Do It For Me </b><br /><br />Then I got the CD and realized I pretty much loved every song on it. It is the kind of CD you can play track after track without skipping. And I love that! But my favorite song on the CD is "Run and Hide." Yep, I have a new favorite singer to add to my list. <br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Euonfly2jZA&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Euonfly2jZA&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="255"></embed></object><br /><br /><b> Run and Hide </b><br /><br />So what's getting heavy rotation in your CD players and IPods right now?Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-64785841277160961402008-06-05T00:01:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:13.461-05:00Throwback Thursdays<b> <i> Things that Make You Go Hmm… </b> </i><br /><br />That was an old Arsenio Hall line for those of you old enough to remember the show… Anyway, ever since Mariah Carey married Nick Cannon folks have been wondering what in the heck she could have been thinking. And I have to say, at first I raised my eyebrow because he’s so much younger than her. Then I figured she got a little “Tender Roni.” Good for her! But then I started thinking and I thought Mariah might be on to something... I came up with the a little theory. So bear with me…<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdlznPJeyI/AAAAAAAAApU/p7dwB4C78oo/s1600-h/200px-Can%27t_Buy_Me_Love_Movie_Poster.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdlznPJeyI/AAAAAAAAApU/p7dwB4C78oo/s320/200px-Can%27t_Buy_Me_Love_Movie_Poster.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208243431457520418" /></a><br />In 1987, Patrick Dempsey was a dorky looking guy who played in the film <i> Can’t Buy Me Love </i>. It was all about a, well dorky guy who paid this rich beautiful girl to pretend to date him so that he could be popular. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmBQFtBKI/AAAAAAAAApc/W65mGmWkZpQ/s1600-h/2003_Love_Don%27t_Cost_A_Thing.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmBQFtBKI/AAAAAAAAApc/W65mGmWkZpQ/s320/2003_Love_Don%27t_Cost_A_Thing.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208243665762059426" /></a><br />In 2003, Nick Cannon was a dorky looking guy who played in the black remake of <i> Can’t Buy Me Love </i>, <i> Love Don’t Cost a Thing </i>. Now before you start saying so what, Gwyneth… Let me say… Patrick Dempsey went from skinny dork to McDreamy. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmT9MGOxI/AAAAAAAAApk/5VPmGAOJHQI/s1600-h/DorkyDempsey.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmT9MGOxI/AAAAAAAAApk/5VPmGAOJHQI/s320/DorkyDempsey.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208243987106118418" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmgTI1HKI/AAAAAAAAAps/lNXP_s7Bc1A/s1600-h/patrick-dempsey-sexier-with-age.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmgTI1HKI/AAAAAAAAAps/lNXP_s7Bc1A/s320/patrick-dempsey-sexier-with-age.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208244199156423842" /></a><br /><br />And I’m not saying Nick Cannon is going to all of the sudden morph into a stud muffin in about ten years… although brother is getting cuter and buffer as the years go by…<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmtKJwtxI/AAAAAAAAAp0/FH4r99-8d6Y/s1600-h/ManlyNick.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SEdmtKJwtxI/AAAAAAAAAp0/FH4r99-8d6Y/s320/ManlyNick.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208244420082710290" /></a><br /><br />But I’m just saying Mariah might be on to something and she might have picked her future McDreamy a little early so that she can watch him blossom… I’m just saying… What do y’all think?Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-21165377035824429002008-06-02T22:43:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:13.651-05:00I have a new website...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SESxBSwxP7I/AAAAAAAAApM/A-ZtME-NBEo/s1600-h/gbbanner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SESxBSwxP7I/AAAAAAAAApM/A-ZtME-NBEo/s320/gbbanner.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207481704921513906" /></a><br /><br />I'm still waiting for my new blog to match my new website. She still has to upload all of my pictures and move my blog to Word Press. But the website is pretty much done. So go on over check it out and let me know what you think. I also changed my blogger blog to somewhat match the new site while I wait patiently for my new improved--with smiley faces I hope--Word Press blog. Check out my new website here:<br /><br /><li><a href="http://www.gwynethbolton.com">www.gwynethbolton.com</li></a><br /><br />What do you think of the new site?<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-10766475981894405022008-05-29T20:40:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:13.830-05:00Enduring Romance Does PROTECT AND SERVE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SD9OF8f-8pI/AAAAAAAAAm8/jqCep5JSd6U/s1600-h/ProtectandServe.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SD9OF8f-8pI/AAAAAAAAAm8/jqCep5JSd6U/s320/ProtectandServe.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205965558310171282" /></a><br /><br />Hi All,<br /><br />I know I've been ghost... I've had grades to do and then revisions and life in general. But I promise to get back on track soon. Meanwhile, check out Kimber An's review of my July release, <i> Protect and Serve </i> over on Enduring Romance. You can check the review out here:<br /><br /><li><a href="http://enduringromance.blogspot.com">http://enduringromance.blogspot.com</li></a><br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-80541008743123051502008-05-10T23:38:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:14.033-05:00A Mother's Love<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SCZqtbiGM3I/AAAAAAAAAm0/byi1cQtZVCo/s1600-h/Tezeno_Evita_A_MOTHER_S_LOVE.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SCZqtbiGM3I/AAAAAAAAAm0/byi1cQtZVCo/s320/Tezeno_Evita_A_MOTHER_S_LOVE.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5198960148563243890" /></a><br /><br />Okay, I’ll let you all in on a little secret. Every time I hear “I’ll Always Love My Mama,” by The Intruders it brings tears to my eyes. <i> <b> Every single time </i> </b>. When I was a kid it used to make me cry because I would always feel sad for my own mother. She lost her mom when she was fourteen-years-old and her dad when she was nine-years-old. As I got older the words started to take on a more personal meaning. Growing up and watching your single mom struggle to make ends meet and knowing in your heart that you didn’t always make that easy for her gives the words of that song power, especially on Mother’s Day. I’m old enough--and somewhat wise enough--to know now that the love of a good mother is not something that is automatic or that should <i> <b> ever </i> </b> be taken for granted. My mother didn’t have to make the sacrifices she made for us. I know lots of women who have made other choices. And I’m not passing judgment. People do what they have to do. But I am saying that if you’ve had the privilege of having a mother love you, put you first and raise you with care, devotion and guidance, you should celebrate her every chance you get, not just on Mother’s Day. She deserves all that and more. So, happy Mother’s Day to all of you moms out there! I’m sending lots of cyber hugs, candy and flowers your way. Enjoy this day and everyday because mothers make the world go round. Enjoy this classic by The Intruders!<br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AeEmsps_Xys&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/AeEmsps_Xys&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="255"></embed></object><br /><br /><b> I’ll Always Love My Mama, The Intruders </b><br /><br /><br />Much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-68232072049921177462008-05-06T09:50:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:14.320-05:00Back from Romance Slam Jam...I'm back! Well... sort of... I have a bunch of grading and other stuff to do so I'll still be visiting the blogesphere a little less frequently. But I made it back from Chicago on Sunday evening. I had a wonderful time at the Slam Jam. I met up with lots of author and reader friends that I only see once a year at the Slam. And I met lots of friends from the blogesphere for the very first time. My workshop on setting the scene went over well. My intimate session with readers was really nice. I only had one weird experience during the reader session. But it wasn't enough to put a damper on an otherwise excellent conference. The highlight for me was doing "Rapper's Delight" during Karaoke at the Ole School Jam. I'll have pictures soon. But if you can't wait for my pictures check out the following blog posts. I have also listed the Emma Award winners below. Congrats to all the winners! I'm happy to announce that the anthology I am a part of, <i> Cuffed by Candlelight </i> won the Emma for Favorite Anthology. Yay! :-) Okay, I need to go grade papers. See y'all soon.<br /><br /><li><a href="http://writeblack.com">Write Black</a></li><br /><br /><li><a href="http://urbanreviews.blogspot.com/2008/05/pics-from-day-two-jam-romance-slam-jam.html">Urban Reviews Day Two</a></li><br /><br /><li><a href="http://urbanreviews.blogspot.com/2008/05/pics-from-day-three-of-romance-slam-jam.html">Urban Reviews Day Three</a></li><br /><br /><li><a href="http://urbanreviews.blogspot.com/2008/05/emma-awards-banquet-romance-slam-jam.html">Urban Reviews Emma Awards</a></li><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SCBiPgMmeeI/AAAAAAAAAms/ZyKtPzRLS14/s1600-h/CuffByCandleFINALFrontCover.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SCBiPgMmeeI/AAAAAAAAAms/ZyKtPzRLS14/s320/CuffByCandleFINALFrontCover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197261988465900002" /></a><br /><br />Favorite Anthology:<br /><i> Cuffed By Candlelight </i> by Beverly Jenkins, Gwyneth Bolton, Katherine D. Jones<br /><br />Favorite Hero:<br />Reese Anthony <i> Deadly Sexy </i> by Beverly Jenkins<br /><br />Favorite Heroine:<br />Teresa July <i> Wild Sweet Love </i> by Beverly Jenkins<br /><br />Favorite Novel<br /><i> Deadly Sexy </i> by Beverly Jenkins<br /><br />Favorite Novella<br />"Prisoner" by Beverly Jenkins<br /><br />Favorite Sequel<br /><i> Only You </i>by Francis Ray<br /><br />Favorite Steamy<br /><i> Whisper Something Sweet </i> by Deatri King-Bey<br /><br />Favorite Suspense<br /><i> Deadly Sexy </i> by Beverly Jenkins<br /><br />Cover of the Year<br /><i> Deadly Sexy </i> by Beverly Jenkins<br /><br />Debut Author of the Year<br />LaConnie Taylor Jones <i> When I’m With You </i><br /><br />Author of the Year<br />Beverly JenkinsGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-24491845981335938172008-04-30T09:02:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:14.482-05:00Off to Chi-town!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SBhufAMmedI/AAAAAAAAAmk/3vJC1e6Epu4/s1600-h/romance_slamjam.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SBhufAMmedI/AAAAAAAAAmk/3vJC1e6Epu4/s320/romance_slamjam.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5195023649079720402" /></a><br /><br />Well I'm on the road again. I'm heading to Chicago for the Romance Slam Jam! I love this conference and can't wait to get there and start chatting about my favorite thing in the world... Black Romance! YAY!<br /><br />If you're in Chicago stop by the conference and check me out. I'll be participating in the following reader session and workshops:<br /> <br />May 1, 2008<br />Intimate Session, 1:00-1:50 pm<br /><br />May 2, 2008<br />Workshop, "A Little More than Location, Location, Location: Setting the Scene in Your Novel," 11:00-12:00 pm<br /><br />May 2, 2008<br />Reader Session with Gwyneth Bolton and Deatri King-Bey, 3:30-4:20 pm<br /><br />May 3, 2008<br />Book Signing, 2:00-5:00 pm<br /><br />See you when I get back!<br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-76690703927943852008-04-22T08:08:00.002-04:002008-12-10T18:32:15.089-05:00Busy as all get out! (Updated with Pictures)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA3ZewMmeYI/AAAAAAAAAmA/xalSz6mdRhE/s1600-h/gonecrazybacksoon.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA3ZewMmeYI/AAAAAAAAAmA/xalSz6mdRhE/s320/gonecrazybacksoon.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192045067785107842" /></a><br /><br />Traveling at the end of the semester is always crazy hectic. And with three conferences happening so late this year I'm feeling the crunch. I have so much stuff to do in order to wrap up the semester and get ready for Slam Jam next week, I feel like I'm running to catch up with myself. Running around like a chicken with its head cut off as my mom used to say... Anyway, RT was fun. I was bad. I didn't take any pictures of my own. Sorry, guys. I was too busy being a fan girl... Hopefully my friends will share. Shameless plea for folks to send me the pictures they promised... Please... :-) Because I certainly posed for enough, grinning like a fool the entire time. I did the fan girl squee as usual, just like I always do when I see Brenda Jackson and L. A. Banks. I'm surprised I was able to form a sentence to talk to these ladies. I love their novels so much. And they are such nice down to earth sistas. I just took notes on how to treat readers when you meet them. Not that I have any readers that will fan girl squee and gush like me when I meet my favs. Anyway, I also got to hang out with some of my new favorite authors who I also consider friends. I got to hang with A. C. Arthur, Kimberly Kaye Terry, Maureen Smith and Ann Christopher. I finally met Ann Aguirre and Vivi Anna. And yes, they both rock. I got to hang out with my Central New York Romance Writers chapter members, authors Susan St. Thomas and Nancy Henderson. Susan and I were roomies and danced our behinds off. Well, maybe not our entire behinds, but you get the idea... I went to a panel with J. R. Ward on it and got to see her talk about the Black Dagger Brothers. I also met two sista-authors who I have just recently discovered but so far have enjoyed everything I've read by them, Bridget Midway and Eve Vaughn. The highlight of the conference was meeting my new Kimani editor, Kelli Martin. She was just as cool in person as she has been to work with. She rocks! <br /><br />I had a blast even though I didn't dress up for the Fairy Ball or the Vampire Ball. I might dress up if I go next year, because some of those fairy wings looked so-oo cute. I have to say, I wanted me some sparkling fairy wings... Anyway, I now have to finish up the semester, make one possibly life-changing decision, and get ready for Slam Jam... Why did I say I would do a workshop on this topic? Why didn't I pick a topic that I've done lots of times before? Because I'm crazy that's why! I'll be back soon guys. And I'm working on a few changes that might give Gwyneth's Blog a little face lift.<br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />Gwyneth<br /><br /><b> PICTURES ADDED </b><br /><br />See what begging for pictures on the blog will get you? Pictures to share. ;-) The awesome Kimberly Kaye Terry sent me some pictures and I snatched a picture from the wonderful <a href="http://annchristopher.com/blog">Ann Christopher's blog</a>. She has a bunch of great picture from the conference over there so you should all go and check them out. <br /><br />Here's a picture from the African American Romance Panel.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA4ocQMmeZI/AAAAAAAAAmI/siBkyeA4MFk/s1600-h/AfricanAmericanRomancePanelatRT.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA4ocQMmeZI/AAAAAAAAAmI/siBkyeA4MFk/s320/AfricanAmericanRomancePanelatRT.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192131886254029202" /></a><br /><br />Here's the panel again, Maureen Smith, me, Brenda Jackson, Kimberly Kaye Terry, A. C. Arthur and editor Kelli Martin.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA4oxQMmeaI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/DMalgg5HpaE/s1600-h/MaureenSmithGwynethBrendaJacksonKimberlyKayeTerryKelliMartinACArthur.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA4oxQMmeaI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/DMalgg5HpaE/s320/MaureenSmithGwynethBrendaJacksonKimberlyKayeTerryKelliMartinACArthur.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192132247031282082" /></a><br /><br />I stole this picture of me L. A. Banks and Kimberly Kaye Terry from Ann's blog. I couldn't help it. It's L. A. Banks... And Ann has lots of pictures over there. ;-)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA4pJAMmebI/AAAAAAAAAmY/EF0kogc46CE/s1600-h/Gwyneth+Bolton,+L.A.+Banks+and+Kimberly+Kaye+Terry.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SA4pJAMmebI/AAAAAAAAAmY/EF0kogc46CE/s320/Gwyneth+Bolton,+L.A.+Banks+and+Kimberly+Kaye+Terry.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5192132655053175218" /></a>Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-65003646656312327762008-04-16T00:10:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:15.293-05:00Off to Pittsburgh<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SAV_NkEiMLI/AAAAAAAAAl4/MMvrP3QLRjg/s1600-h/RTLogo.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SAV_NkEiMLI/AAAAAAAAAl4/MMvrP3QLRjg/s320/RTLogo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189694016612085938" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br />I'm off to attend my first ever <a href="http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?e=9048bd41-a548-4c7a-8d9f-2704d2161681">Romantic Times Book Lovers Convention in Pittsburgh</a>. And I'm really looking forward to it. I've always looked at the pictures from the conventions in the past when they print them in the magazine with awe and wonder. They look like they really know how to have a good time. And then there's the fact that I get to spend the <b> entire </b> weekend talking about romance with readers and writers. Those of you who read this blog know how happy that makes me. I'm so geeked I can hardly stand it! See you all on Monday. <br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-6241805306287325612008-04-14T00:04:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:15.869-05:00About A Book Mondays: Introducing Niambi Brown Davis<b>Debut Author Niambi Brown Davis </b><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SALYV0EiMII/AAAAAAAAAlg/VWv5x9ZBM8s/s1600-h/niambibrowndavisphoto.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SALYV0EiMII/AAAAAAAAAlg/VWv5x9ZBM8s/s400/niambibrowndavisphoto.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188947589950746754" /></a><br /><br />GB: So, Niambi, tell us a little bit about yourself. In addition to the standard biography, what’s one thing about you that most people would be surprised by?<br /><br /><b> NBD: My kids encouraged me to enter the “Dancing with the Moms” competition on Good Morning America! I did not, but I do plan to train with a former Latin champion to become a student instructor. At one time, I considered Pro-Am competition (an amateur paired with a professional dancer). But in order to reach that level, everything else in life would come to a very expensive and complete stop. And as much as I love dancing, I love writing even more. </b><br /><br />GB: Tell us little about your road to publication. What was it like getting the call? Holding your novel in your hands for the first time?<br /><br /><b> NBD: The first words that come to mind are “long and winding.” What I did not know would fill an entire set of encyclopedias. After I won third place in 2003 for the Aspiring Writers Contest at Romance Slam Jam, I was certain it was only a matter of time before my book would be out there. Not! My manuscript was rejected and revised, rejected and revised again, until I came up with the version that was accepted by Parker Publishing. The call was actually an email, and talk about an out-of-body experience - I was speechless; anybody looking would swear I was having a seizure! I have not received the book yet, but when I do get it in my hands, I will be doing some of that dancing I told you about. </b><br /><br />GB: Tell us a little bit about your novel <i> From Dusk to Dawn </i> . What was your inspiration for writing it?<br /><br /><b> NBD: It is the story of a man and a woman who are opposites in every way – in faith, in age, in goals for their life. In spite of all their differences, they fall deeply in love. There are obstacles, each of which they overcome, until their love is tested by the greatest challenge of their relationship. In the end, will love or fear conquer all? The inspiration for the story was an African-American woman expatriate I met many years ago in Trinidad. When I had to come up with an introductory paragraph in a writing class, she popped into my mind. Afterwards, I applied the “what-if” test, until I came up with the story of Ayo and Bilal. </b> <br /><br />GB: What’s next on the horizon for you? Do you have any other novels scheduled for publication? What’s in the works?<br /><br /><b> NBD: Next up is a historical that has been percolating for at least two years. It is the story of a young black woman in 18th century England who finds love halfway around the world. In her words, she has had a taste of love and of freedom, and she will risk everything to get it back. Then there is the story of a woman accused of burning down her home. She seeks refuge in the British Virgin Islands where she owns a boat. She becomes a luxury charter captain while trying to find out who framed her and why. A character from Dusk to Dawn plays a major role in this one. </b><br /><br />GB: What are you reading right now? What kind of books do you like to read?<br /><br /><b> NBD: Right now, I cannot wait to get into Pearl Cleage’s new release. Of course, I am the number one fan of a great romance. I love historical fiction and books with magical, supernatural storylines, suspense and mysteries, and those with heroines over 40. </b><br /><br />GB: Do you have any advice for other writers dreaming of their own debut?<br /><br /><b> NBD: Be patient, persevere and be prepared. Keep yourself open to opportunity. It can drop into your lap when you least expect it, and may be the stepping-stone that will take you to the next level. </b><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SALY30EiMJI/AAAAAAAAAlo/lLcQr2xF9FY/s1600-h/fdtd.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/SALY30EiMJI/AAAAAAAAAlo/lLcQr2xF9FY/s320/fdtd.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188948174066299026" /></a><br /><br /><b> Book Blurb: </b><br /><br />By the time she was 22, Ayo Montgomery had been an expatriate, a wife, a mother and a widow. Twenty years later, she’s finally at a place of peace in her life. Her son is away at school in Florida. Her soap and body products business is flourishing. She doesn’t know what she’s missing until Bilal Abdul Salaam walks into her life. Bilal has been looking for a woman to love, cherish, have children and grow old with. On the hottest day of the year, he finds her, and she’s everything he didn’t expect. He’s Muslim and she most definitely is not. Ayo is 42 and has already raised a son. He’s 32 and ready to start a family of his own. But both are overwhelmed by a smoldering attraction that refuses to acknowledge their differences. As they work their way through each obstacle, they discover their love is strong enough, passionate enough and deep enough to make every sacrifice worthwhile.<br /><br /><b> Check out Niambi’s wonderful book trailer here: </b><br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hMrXTWgrsv4&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hMrXTWgrsv4&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="255"></embed></object><br /><br /><b> Find out more about Niambi and her books here: </b><br /><br /><li><a href="http://www.niambibrowndavis.com"> http://www.niambibrowndavis.com</li></a><br /><br /><li><a href="http://www.niambibrowndavis.blogspot.com">http://www.niambibrowndavis.blogspot.com</li></a><br /><br /><li><a href="http://www.myspace.com/niambibrowndavis">http://www.myspace.com/niambibrowndavis</li></a>Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-24199350958198967592008-04-10T00:14:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:16.334-05:00Throwback Thursdays<b> This is how we do the old to the new… </b><br /><br /><i> Because there’s something about Mary… </i><br /><br /><b> “Real Love” </b><br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/XlaJbokP6ns&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/XlaJbokP6ns&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="255"></embed></object><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_2UlMXgDQI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/xX0hPqKPyaY/s1600-h/whatsthe411.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_2UlMXgDQI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/xX0hPqKPyaY/s200/whatsthe411.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187465712496545026" /></a><br />Just so you know, I will be a Mary J. Blige fan for life! She had me ever since she came out looking for a “Real Love” in 1992. Hell, I was feeling her when she was singing back up hooks for Father MC in “I’ll Do For You.” There’s just something about a Mary J. Blige fan. We will buy her CDs no matter what. Even those fans grumbling that they don’t like her music now that she’s happy and in love will fork down their cash and purchase each new release. We can’t help it. I’m so happy that her last two CDs have been ones that I can rock track after track after track without skipping. Honestly, I haven’t done that with a Mary CD since <i> My Life </i>. I don’t really know what it is about Mary that inspires such diehard loyalty in us fans. It could be because she’s so real. Or it might be because she makes us <i> feel </i>. It might be because she gave a generation of young women a voice when no one was speaking our pain. And now that some of us have grown up with her, found love, feel content and know that real love and happiness comes from within, we’re all feeling “Just Fine.” Do you think that there’s something about Mary? Has an artist ever touched you the way Mary touches her fans? <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_2Uw8XgDRI/AAAAAAAAAlY/dxO7MNB1WbU/s1600-h/mjb_cover.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_2Uw8XgDRI/AAAAAAAAAlY/dxO7MNB1WbU/s200/mjb_cover.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5187465914360007954" /></a><br /><br /><b> “Just Fine” </b><br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mEM1RuiyUGA&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mEM1RuiyUGA&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="255"></embed></object>Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-50887867362217963952008-04-07T00:07:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:16.484-05:00About a Book Mondays<b> <I> No One But You </I> by Michelle Monkou </b><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_mfiLneIvI/AAAAAAAAAlI/eWYPOvInhO0/s1600-h/noonebutyou.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_mfiLneIvI/AAAAAAAAAlI/eWYPOvInhO0/s320/noonebutyou.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186351855476548338" /></a><br /><br />Michelle Monkou is starting a hot new series this month! <i> No One But You </i> is the first novel in the Ladies of Distinction Series. After reading the novels in her Masterson Series, I’m really excited about her new series. And after reading <i> No One But You </i> all I can say is run to the bookstore and pick up your copy today! I really enjoyed this novel and I know others will enjoy it as well. It takes one of my favorite romance themes, friends to lovers, and kicks it up a notch. I’m so excited to have the chance to chat with Michelle about her new book and this new series!<br /><br />GB: So, Michelle, can you tell folks who haven’t read your amazing new book a little bit about your latest release?<br /><br /><b> MM: <i> No One But You </i> is a romantic fiction published by Harlequin Kimani that introduces the first in the Ladies of Distinction series about sorority sisters who pledged together and now face life after university. After college, Jackson Thomas chose his family business over Sarafina Lovell. Now Jackson is back, and Sara plans to give him one sultry goodbye kiss to prove she’s moved on. His sizzling kiss awakens memories of passion too hot to ignore.…I’ll let you uncover the roller coaster ride to the romantic end. </b><br /><br />GB: Roller coaster ride is right. LOL. It was like one of those looping, twisting roller coasters, too! <br /><br />Okay, you’re a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated. Did you base your new series on your on experiences being a member of a predominantly Black Greek organization? Do you think having that experience helped you to craft the novels in this series?<br /><br /><b> MM: I’ve been a member of Sigma Gamma Rho since 1987 with Zeta Tau Sigma Chapter in Maryland. The new series does not portray Sigma Gamma Rho’s pledge process because the organization banned pledging as a direct result of the hazing lawsuits that all fraternal organizations face. Instead, I used the positive aspects of the pledging experience that I witnessed among the original four black sororities over several years: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Theta Sigma, and Sigma Gamma Rho. </b><br /><br /><b> But true, deep friendships occur with schoolmates, book club members, knitting club, etc., making this bonding universal regardless of race, class, or any other differences. I don’t think you have to be a part of a sorority to write about the experience. However, since my experience was a positive one, I chose to give the African American fraternal institutions and their missions the respect and platform as the founders intended. </b><br /><br />GB: You did a wonderful job. The closeness of the sorors in the novel made me want to run and call each of my line sisters after I read the novel. Anyway, <i> No One But You </i> takes on the wonderfully classic “lovers reunited” romance theme. What made you decide to use this theme in your latest release? <br /><br /><b> MM: Lovers reunited is a theme that people can relate to because many of us may have experiences from past relationships that still hold a special place in our hearts. With everything else in place, sometimes timing plays that crucial role that acts as a divider between a couple. And if we had a second chance, we vow not to make the mistake again. </b><br /><br /><b> In <i> No One But You </i>, Jackson has been helped by Sara’s sorority sisters who intervene without her knowledge to get the couple back together. They know that Sara still loves this man, and they take the chance that Jackson will step up and take on the quest to reclaim his college sweetheart. I’m a romantic at heart and could possibly see some of my old college friends reconnecting given the right time and place for the magical moment. </b><br /><br />GB: What else do you have in store for readers with this hot new series? Can you give us some hints and sneak peeks of what we can expect in the forthcoming novels? What else will those sorors of Xi Sigma Theta be getting into? What are the up coming titles and release dates for the rest of the series?<br /><br /><b> MM: Each story will focus on the life of a particular sorority sister. There will be secrets to uncover, confessions of past sins to disclose, but also, a deeper understanding and humility that she will learn about herself as she faces life long love with her soul mate. </b><br /><br /><b> <i> Gamble On Love </i> – October 2008 – Denise Dixon is everything self-made millionaire Jaden Bond has come to hate in a woman. The “Black American Princess” is spoiled rotten and a gambler. But with the looks to rival a genuine beauty queen and a sassy attitude to back them up, Denise is a blow torch to Jaden’s cold-hearted cynicism and his legendary self-control. </b><br /><br /><b> <i> Only In Paradise </i> – April 2009 – Athena, a twin, leaves her job and home to work in a school on a small Caribbean island where she gets a daily dose of her elegantly handsome boss, Collin Wadsworth. </b><br /><br /><b> Title To Be Decided – October 2009 – Naomi, the ex-basketball player must re-enter life after a horrendous injury only to be challenged by a no-nonsense plastic surgeon, Sergio Lopez. </b><br /><br /><b> Last Title in Series – In 2010 – This will be Asia’s story, the other twin. At this moment, Asia’s story is not crafted, but she might end up in England. </b><br /><br />GB: What the best way for readers to get in contact with you?<br /><br /><b> MM: I’m more accessible by email than snail mail. My email is michellemonkou@comcast.net. Another way to keep updated on goings on is my shared reader loop with Gwyneth Bolton, Shelia Goss and Celeste Norfleet at LiveLoveLaughandBook@yahoogroups.com. Send an email if you’d like to join this fantastic loop where we have contests, chats and lively discussions. </b>Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-17616530210242836082008-04-02T00:04:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:17.463-05:00Off to New Orleans...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_MHcLneItI/AAAAAAAAAk4/YbHPloZUruY/s1600-h/4CHeader_Web.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_MHcLneItI/AAAAAAAAAk4/YbHPloZUruY/s320/4CHeader_Web.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184495776769647314" /></a><br /><br />I'm off to attend the <a href="http://www.ncte.org/cccc/conv">Conference on College Composition and Communication Convention</a> in New Orleans. My flight leaves bright and early in the morning. I'll be away from the blogosphere. See you all when I get back on Monday!<br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-51988081793270078392008-04-01T00:04:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:19.287-05:00April Interview with Celeste O. Norfleet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G29LneIpI/AAAAAAAAAkY/QbBocPSaSh4/s1600-h/Celeste.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G29LneIpI/AAAAAAAAAkY/QbBocPSaSh4/s400/Celeste.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184125808286769810" /></a><br /><br />GB: Hi Celeste! Thanks so much for visiting my blog and doing an interview. I’m a huge fan of your work and I appreciate you taking the time to chat! So, first I have to ask my standard time management question. How do you find the time to do it all and do it all so well?<br /><br /><b> CN: Hi Gwyneth. Thanks for inviting me to visit your blog and thanks for the great intro although I don’t know about the “do so well” part. Okay, to answer your question, I consider writing a full time job, so when it comes to time management I stay pretty close to a set work schedule. I start right after my teens leave for school and continue until they come home. That’s about seven about hours a day. When I’m unable to get seven hours in, I try to make up lost time by working in the evenings. When I’m on deadline I usually schedule myself to write between 10,000 and 15,000 words a week. Doing the math, I can usually complete a book in 2 months or less. </b><br /><br />GB: What drew you to the romance genre? Were you a reader of romance novels before you started to write them?<br /> <br /><b> CN: I’m a late bloomer when it comes to romance. I’m often amazed by the stories of authors reading romance at young ages. While they were reading romance I was drawing and painting. What drew me to romance is easy, I read one romance novel and was instantly smitten. That was in 1995. I decided to write romance a few years later. </b><br /><br />GB: Since your first novel, <i> Priceless Gift </i> in 2002, you have published 14 novels and a novella. Congratulations on being so prolific and getting so many wonderful novels published. Has your writing changed over the years? How do you keep it fresh for yourself? <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G0krneIkI/AAAAAAAAAjw/l-JJWNaUyss/s1600-h/pricelessgift.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G0krneIkI/AAAAAAAAAjw/l-JJWNaUyss/s320/pricelessgift.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184123188356719170" /></a><br /><br /><b> CN: Thanks Gwyneth. I’d like to think and hope that my writing has changed for the better over the years, but I guess that’s a matter of opinion. I constantly study the mechanics of the craft. There’s always something more for me to learn. Keeping fresh for me means keeping an eye on what’s going on in the world and in the business. I read a lot, and try to stay open to new and unusual ideas. I come up with dozens of story plots for books every week. Some are good and some are absolutely horrible. I’ll get an idea and go, “what if…” My March 2007 release, <i> Love After All </i>, is a perfect example of that. I read a newspaper article about someone getting conned and the ball just started rolling. </b> <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G0zbneIlI/AAAAAAAAAj4/OyIu4CxRTes/s1600-h/loveafterall.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G0zbneIlI/AAAAAAAAAj4/OyIu4CxRTes/s320/loveafterall.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184123441759789650" /></a><br /><br />GB: With so many wonderful novels under your belt, do you find that there are any common themes in your work, themes that resurface or topics that you revisit?<br /><br /><b> CN: There’s always the enduring love theme. I’m secretly a hopeless romantic, so writing the happily ever after ending is so natural for me. As for topics, I like doing research so my books have dozens of different themes and topics. I like changing up and keeping the books fresh and exciting. </b><br /><br />GB: What has your journey to publication been like? How did you get in print and remain in print? Are there any secrets to your success that you are willing to share?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G3QLneIqI/AAAAAAAAAkg/AYFOrpz5K6s/s1600-h/reflectionsofyou.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G3QLneIqI/AAAAAAAAAkg/AYFOrpz5K6s/s320/reflectionsofyou.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184126134704284322" /></a><br /><br /><b> CN: Sorry, there are no secrets. Getting published was more a test of patience and perseverance then anything else. I learned very fast that getting published was a Catch 22. You needed an agent to get a publishing contract and you needed a publishing contract to get an agent. I also learned that persistence pays off. After deciding to become a writer I went to the local library and learned everything I could about the publishing business. Afterwards I wrote my first manuscript and sent it in. I immediately wrote my second manuscript and send that in as well. Midway through my third manuscript I received the “call.” In 2001 Chandra Taylor Sparks, editor at BET Books, wanted to buy both manuscripts and also wanted me to write a Christmas romance. She gave me three months to write it. It was my first deadline. I received a three book contract. I wasn’t agented at the time but I did use the legal services of Elaine English, who is currently my agent. </b><br /><br />GB: You’re the author of a widely successful and popular series, The Matchmaker Series which features the always wonderful and sometimes meddlesome, Mamma Lou. I had the pleasure of chatting with Mamma Lou here on “Gwyneth’s Blog” a couple of weeks ago and she was just delightful! She had some really insightful things to say about the series and her mission to help folks find love. As the author of this marvelous series, can you tell us a little bit about what went into creating it? Did you know it was going to be such a long running series when you started it? Any advise to writers about developing and sustaining a successful series?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G3rbneIrI/AAAAAAAAAko/TW1gYJ0-lhQ/s1600-h/followinglove.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G3rbneIrI/AAAAAAAAAko/TW1gYJ0-lhQ/s320/followinglove.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184126602855719602" /></a><br /><br /><b> CN: The Matchmaker Series came about completely by accident as did all of my series books. Initially, when I typed the words, “the end” after I finished writing <i> Priceless Gift </i>, I expected that to be the end. To my total surprise, it wasn’t. I’m delighted to say that readers adored Mamma Lou and wanted more. I was asked by my editor to start and continue a series featuring her. It was easy enough because Louise Gates is such a great character. I had no idea at the time that the series would continue for eight books (and counting). I think that the key to developing and sustaining a successful series is to writing a great story and creating memorable character. </b><br /><br />GB: I just finished your latest Matchmaker Series release, <i> When Love Calls </i> and loved it. Can you tell folks a little bit about it? Just enough to tease them and make them run out and buy it. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G1N7neImI/AAAAAAAAAkA/-cJb1GxmJ6w/s1600-h/whenlovecalls.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G1N7neImI/AAAAAAAAAkA/-cJb1GxmJ6w/s320/whenlovecalls.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184123897026323042" /></a><br /><br /><b> CN: <i> When Love Calls </i> is part of the Matchmaker Series. It features Senator Randolph Kingsley and Alyssa Wingate. Alyssa is a hopeful DC lobbyist on a mission to sneak into a private reception and get Senator Kingsley to support her cause. They end the evening in a police station with Randolph realizing that there’s something special about her. Alyssa and Randolph are attracted to each other but family secrets and political maneuvering vie to keep them apart. Unlike Mamma Lou’s other targets; Randolph actually enlists her help to win the heart of the woman he loves. But as we all know politics make strange bedfellows. In <i> When Love Calls </i> there are secrets, betrayals, lies, backstabbing, tender romance and hot, steamy, tantalizing sex (after all we are talking politics). Yes, there’s also a bit of humor. </b><br /><br />GB: With all the political sex scandals going on these days, it seems like a very timely topic! You also have a Young Adult novel coming out this month that you co-authored with your daughter. Can you tell us a little bit about the novel and what it was like co-writing with your teenaged daughter? I’ll bet it was a blast! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G1trneInI/AAAAAAAAAkI/oDwxkErlccE/s1600-h/shesaidshesaid.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G1trneInI/AAAAAAAAAkI/oDwxkErlccE/s320/shesaidshesaid.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184124442487169650" /></a><br /><br /><b> CN: Yes, it really was a blast! Hard to believe but it’s true. My daughter, Jennifer collaborated and wrote, <i> She Said, She Said </i> with me. We had such a great time. The actually logistics were simple. I wrote the mother’s character and Jennifer wrote the daughter’s character. We basically took turns, exchanged copy daily and stayed on a very tight schedule and a tight chapter outline and synopsis. <i> She Said, She Said </i> is a Kimani TRU and is the story of a mother and daughter characters that are at odds with each other. Each character talks, but neither listens and when they do they only hear what they want to hear. After a long road trip to the mother’s home town the main characters seem to change places. The teenage daughter begins to act like a mom and the mother begins to act like a teenager. It’s a warm and funny story, a definite keeper. </b><br /><br />GB: It sounds delightful. I could see it as a movie already and I haven’t even read it. LOL. Somebody call Disney… (smile) So, how has your life changed since becoming published? Would you change anything if you had it to do all over again? What changes, if any, do you anticipate in the future?<br /><br /><b> CN: I love being a published author but actually my life hasn’t really changed that much. I was a stay at home mom and I’m still a stay at home mom. Only know I write between dusting and laundry. I don’t know that I’d change anything. It’s been a wonderful journey. One definite future change will be writing from more lines, so stay tuned. </b><br /><br />GB: What’s next on the horizon for you? Tell us a little bit about your upcoming projects and give us a sneak peek at some of the things you have in the works.<br /> <br /><b> CN: I can’t keep a secret. My first Kimani TRU, <i> Pushing Pause </i>, did very well so I’ve been asked to write a sequel to the story. <i> Fast Forward </i> will be out the end of this year with more sequels to come. Also, there’s more in the works for the Matchmaker Series and I’ll be revisiting the characters from <i> Only You </i> and <i> Love After All </i>. </b><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G2GrneIoI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/-hp8PhFHHxk/s1600-h/pushingpause.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R_G2GrneIoI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/-hp8PhFHHxk/s320/pushingpause.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184124871983899266" /></a><br /><br />GB: All right! Congratulations, lady! You are certainly doing your thing. Keep those books coming… So, what are you reading right now?<br /><br /><b> CN: Right now, truthfully, it’s the <i> Washington Post </i> newspaper. I just got finished judging two different contests, so my eyes are triple crossed from reading romance. But the top three books in my “to-be-read” pile are – <i> No One But You </i> by Michelle Monkou, <i> Then Comes Love </i> by Candice Poarch, <i> Double Platinum </i> by Shelia Goss. Girl, I read your novella in <i> Cuffed by Candlelight </i>. “Handcuffs Mean Never Having to Say You’re Sorry” was too HOT! </b><br /><br />GB: I just finished Michelle Monkou's <i> No One But You </i>. It was a great read. I am about to start Shelia Goss's <i> Double Platinum </i>. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers about the publishing business?<br /> <br /><b> CN: Don’t give up on yourself or your talent. </b><br /><br />GB: How can readers best contact you?<br /><br /><b> CN: Sure, readers can e-mail me at conorfleet@aol.com or write me snail mail at Celeste O. Norfleet, P. O. Box 7346, Woodbridge, VA 22195-7346. Don’t forget to check out my website at, <br /><a href="http://www.celesteonorfleet.com">http://www.celesteonorfleet.com</a> . </b>Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-21439395651042368392008-03-27T00:50:00.000-04:002008-03-27T01:03:54.305-04:00Throwback ThursdaysWhere are they now?<br /><br /><b> TOTAL </B><br /><br />I liked the girl group from the 90s, Total. They were a part of Puffy's Bad Boy label when Bad Boy was hot. And speaking of Puffy, or Diddy, or Sean "Diddy" Combs, or what ever the hell name he's going by at this second... Why do they keep letting this fool make bands? Seriously, if MTV airs one more season of Puffy making one more band... But I digress... <br /><br />As much as Puffy works my nerves--and trust and believe me he makes me sick to just look at him--he was the hit maker in the 90s. Bad Boy had it going on and Total was one of those rough and rugged girl groups that sisters could vibe to. Sort of like ole school <i> What's the 411? </i> Mary J. Blige ... Anyway, instead of Puffy making new bands, why doesn't he do something with one of the old bands that we actually liked at one point? I think I'll dedicate the next few Throwbacks to girl groups of the 90s that are no longer with us. I want Total to do a tour with SWV, Xscape and 702. That would make my nostalgic self very happy. Until then... I'll just have to check out Total's "Kissing You." <br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WtPnLTg1G-s&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WtPnLTg1G-s&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="255"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />much love and peace,<br /><br />GwynethGwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-364470357625497702008-03-24T00:13:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:19.683-05:00About a Book Mondays: Chatting with Mamma Lou<b> About A Book Mondays: An Interview the Matchmaker Louise “Mamma Lou” Gates </b><br /><br />Today I have the great pleasure to chat with Louise “Mamma Lou” Gates, the matchmaking dynamo from Celeste O. Norfleet’s wonderful Matchmaker Series. She has been hooking folks up since she hit the scene in <I> Priceless Gift </I> and she is at it again in Celeste Norfleet’s latest novel <I> When Love Calls </I>. I’ll tell you after following this series and enjoying reading about the passionate love that she guides folks into finding, all I want to know is where was she when I was in the dating game. LOL. I’m really happy to have the chance to talk to her today and find out what makes this wonderful woman tick. So, welcome Mrs. Gates! And I hope that I am not being to forward by acting like family and calling you Mamma Lou. After reading about so many of your matchmaking missions, I feel like know you! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R-cqurneIjI/AAAAAAAAAjo/n2GjKSY9Kx8/s1600-h/whenlovecalls.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R-cqurneIjI/AAAAAAAAAjo/n2GjKSY9Kx8/s400/whenlovecalls.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5181156877783671346" /></a><br /><br />So my first question is what made you decide to try and help folks find love? Is it a calling you’ve always had?<br /><br /><b> LG “Mamma Lou”: First of all thank you so much Gwyneth for giving me the opportunity to spread the word about my matchmaking. And yes, please call me Mamma Lou, everyone else does. Now, your first question was very interesting. The answer is yes indeed, matchmaking is definitely a calling, one I’ve listened to and acted on for years. Not to sound too full of myself, but I’ve always had the talent to see the spark of love. And before you ask what it is, the spark of love is the innate glow of passion between two people. When you see it, that’s when you know a match is perfect. I know some of my matchmaking schemes aren’t too popular at first, but folks eventually come around to see that I always know what’s best when it comes to matchmaking. </b><br /> <br />GB: Out of all of the couples that the talented author Celeste Norfleet has chronicled for you in her telling of your matchmaking tales, do you have any favorites? Which couple gave you the hardest time trying to resist your matchmaking efforts? <br /><br /><b> LG “Mamma Lou”: Oh heavens no, I don’t have favorites. I love all my children and all my matches. Each one is special and unique. I’ve joined so many wonderful couples over the years including Celeste and her husband, Charles. What a sweet couple they are. They just celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary last year. Oh, they fought me at first, most of my matches do, but in the end I knew they were the perfect match. As for the hardest and most resistant couple, I can’t think of a single one. They all come around in time. </b><br /><br />GB: Wow! I had no idea you’d hooked up Celeste and her husband! That’s wonderful. The latest installment in the Matchmaker Series, <I> When Love Calls </I> sounds like another wonderful love story as well. I hear that the hero might have even sought out your help this time. Can you give us some information about this new installment in the series?<br /><br /><b> LG “Mamma Lou”: Oh yes, Senator Randolph Kingsley from California is a wonderful man. I met the honorable senator when my grandson’s brother-in-law, JT Evans, got married to the Senator’s sister, Juliet Bridges. Randolph is a brilliant intellect with astute insight. He didn’t really need me to help him. All I did was move a few old memories out of the way and gave love a bit of breathing room. It’s like my garden on Crescent Island, some memories are like tangled weeds and prickly nettles, you need to cut them away to keep the richness of life blooming. Sometimes we hold on when we should let go. A dear old friend of mine learned that just recently. I’m so delighted to say that Randolph and Alyssa are just as happy as can be. </b> <br /><br />GB: I noticed that you’ve branched out of late and have moved on from helping just family member, spreading love to friends as well. Do you think you’ll ever branch out even further? Maybe set up a Mamma Lou dating service and help people all over the world find love? Or do you prefer the personal connections that you have with friends and family? <br /><br /><b> LG “Mamma Lou”: (laughter) Oh my, wouldn’t that be the limit, me running a dating service. No baby, I think my matchmaking days will be better spent right here in my backyard. I have so many wonderful new and old friends that need my help. At over eighty years old, I don’t think I have the energy to circle the world but, wouldn’t that be a joy to see. </b><br /><br />GB: As I think about the series and how much I have enjoyed it over the years, I can’t help but imagine it as a cool television series. Can you imagine it? A woman going around hooking up couple each week? It would be like <I> Murder She Wrote </I> but instead of helping to find out whodunit you’d be helping people find love. And instead of a little old white woman we’d have a sassy African American grandmother such as yourself. If you had to pick a movie star to play you in a great television show about your life as a matchmaker who would you pick and why?<br /><br /><b> LG “Mamma Lou”: (laughter) Sweet child you are too kind to an old lady. I’ve heard this mentioned before and I’ll tell you what I told them, it would be an honor to inspire such a television show. Now as to who might play me, I’d have to say my dear friend Ruby Ann Wallace. We met years ago when she attended Hunter College. She’s so talented and as an Oscar nominated actress, I can think of no one more perfect to play me. You all know her as Ruby Dee. </b><br /><br />GB: I could totally see Ruby Dee bringing your wonderful persona to the screen! What is in the future for Mamma Lou and Celeste Norfleet’s wonderful series and how might readers find out more about the books?<br /><br /><b> LG “Mamma Lou”: Well Gwyneth, I don’t know what the good Lord has in store for me, but for right now and the foreseeable future, I’ll be matchmaking. There are still so many in need of my services. Since our first book together (Priceless Gift), Celeste and I have gone on a wonderful journey celebrating my matchmaking in eight delightful novels. I can’t imagine stopping now when there’s so much more to do. So as long as Celeste continues to write, I’ll continue to be right there with her. As a matter of fact, I just told Celeste about a good friend, Trey Evans. Heaven knows it took a while. Trying to catch up with Trey was like trying to catch the wind, impossible. But, he came around. I just wish I was the one he went to for help. He called my dear friend Colonel Wheeler. Imagine that. I believe Celeste calls that novel, And Then There Was You. It’ll be out the end of this year so watch for it. Now, since I don’t know any of that fancy computer stuff you young people talk about, I’m gonna let Celeste take it from here. If folks want to chat with me more about my matchmaking, have them contact Celeste. </b><br /><br /><b> Celeste O. Norfleet: Thanks Mamma Lou and thanks Gwyneth for inviting us to stop by, About a Book Mondays. I love listening to Mamma Lou chat about love and matchmaking. Her insights are truly awe-inspiring. That’s why I enjoy writing her stories. So, to chat more with Mamma Lou send an email to conorfleet@aol.com. Put “Mamma Lou” in the subject space and I’ll get it to her. Or check out my website at <a href="http://www.celesteonorfleet.com">www.celesteonorfleet.com</a>. </b><br /><br />GB: Thanks for taking the time to do the interview, Mamma Lou. I appreciate it!Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-18888125883692851962008-03-22T09:46:00.001-04:002008-12-10T18:32:19.878-05:00Holiday Greetings...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R-UNt7neIiI/AAAAAAAAAjg/vOmz0mwm1X8/s1600-h/RE0109~Black-Last-Supper-Triptych-Posters.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R-UNt7neIiI/AAAAAAAAAjg/vOmz0mwm1X8/s400/RE0109~Black-Last-Supper-Triptych-Posters.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5180562029108142626" /></a><br /><br />Have a wonderful and blessed Easter weekend everyone!Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27651103.post-22298336095056813552008-03-20T00:43:00.000-04:002008-12-10T18:32:20.044-05:00Throwback Thursdays<b> Old School Movie Memories: <i> Mahogany </i> </b><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R-HrsrneIhI/AAAAAAAAAjY/Bh7mUwYKEO4/s1600-h/Mahogany.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GzJApxUemIo/R-HrsrneIhI/AAAAAAAAAjY/Bh7mUwYKEO4/s400/Mahogany.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179680199307829778" /></a><br /><br />Okay since I was probably all of six years old when this movie was released in 1976, I didn’t exactly catch it in the theaters. I must have seen it for the first time on television. Probably a Saturday or Sunday afternoon… You know back when they used to show those back to back Karate flicks and every now and then you’d catch a movie like <i> Mahogany </i> , <i> Claudine </i> or <i> Let’s Do It Again </i> …. I will say that while I liked <i> Lady Sings the Blues </i> I <i> <b> LOVE </i> </b> <i> Mahogany </i>. After <i> Claudine </i>, it is probably one of my all time favorite old movies. The chemistry between Diana Ross and Billy Dee Williams is amazing. And it’s even worth enduring that weird relationship she develops with the character played by Anthony Perkins. Because in the end she “gets her ole man back!” I also loved that even though she becomes this big time model in the film, for a large chunk of it she’s just a <i> regular </i> Chi-town girl. We don’t have nearly enough black love movies. But this one is a classic and it will always be in my top ten. What older romantic movies make your top ten list? And while you ponder that question think about these… “Do you know where you’re going to? Do you like the things that life is showing you? Where are you going to? Do you know?” LOL. Have a great weekend!<br /><br /><object width="325" height="255"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/P92fGeYS_Mw&hl=en"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/P92fGeYS_Mw&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="325" height="355"></embed></object>Gwyneth Boltonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01241149490843015170noreply@blogger.com14