Two More Reviews for Cuffed!

4.5 Stars from APOOO BookClub
"Cuffed by Candlelight by Beverly Jenkins, Gwyneth Bolton and Katherine D. Jones is a compilation of three romantically, erotic short stories with the connecting theme being an involvement in law enforcement. Otherwise the stories could not be more diverse... Handcuffs Means Never Having to Say You're Sorry by Gwyneth Bolton is a hip-hop influenced wild ride of a story. Police Officer Tamara Downing is working undercover to bring down Murder Row music's Tommy Coles. Coles' music business is a front for drug activity and prostitution. Just when she is about to close the case, DEA Officer Lance King intervenes. Lance and Tamara's lives have been linked since childhood and he feels a need to protect her. Tamara is not interested because what she wants from Lance has nothing to do with protection. What she is going to find out is Lance has his own plans where she is concerned... I recommend this anthology to anyone interested in romantic heat and diversity in stories. Prisoner is a historical, romantic adventure. Gunns and Roses boasts contemporary flavor, while Handcuffs is cutting-edge and hip-hop influenced. What they all have in common is unbridled heat." Angelia Menchan for APOOO BookClub

3 stars, VERY GOOD from Shades of Romance Magazine
"Cuffed by Candlelight is the opening act in Parker Publishing Noire Passion line. I found that all of the heroines in the three novellas were strong women and it gave the anthology an edge that most do not have - tasteful erotica... Gwyneth Bolton's novella, Handcuffs Means Never Having to Say You're Sorry, was a perfect end to this anthology. This novella has characters that are true to life and easy to relate to... Ms. Bolton's novella was entertaining and the characters were interesting. The history of the main characters gave a deeper understanding to the passion between them and the use of the handcuffs were a classy end to this anthology." ~ Renee Motley for Shades of Romance Magazine

Sweet Sensation: The Mix Tape

For those of you who don't know, my latest novel Sweet Sensation is the second in the Hip-Hop Debutantes Trilogy. I plan to do a blog entry in the near future about what I think it means to "write hip-hop" let alone "write a hip-hop romance." But for now--since I haven't done a mix tape on the blog in a minute--I thought I'd post an entry about the music behind Sweet Sensation. First, the title Sweet Sensation comes from a old Stephanie Mills song. “Sweet Sensation… so sweet… a fantasy… love vibration… And I just want to let you know… That I'll never let you go…" At first I toyed around with the idea of using the title of one of my all time favorite R&B songs, "Sweet Thing" (both the Chaka Khan version and the Mary J. Blige version are good to me). But one of my critique buddies was working on a novel titled Sweet Things. What's up Susan St. Thomas ? Anyway, the novel has a soundtrack of hip-hop love songs that I kept in mind as I wrote it. And, each chapter has a song title for its subtitle. So, without giving away any spoilers, I thought it would be cool to share the titles of the songs and some of the lyrics in order to help folks get a feel for the novel. Also note that when I say hip-hop love song, I mean it in a variety of ways. It can be a rap song, an R&B/Hip-Hop Soul song, or even a Neo-Soul song. It can also be a love song about any form of love, from romantic love to love of family to love of hip-hop culture to love of self. So with out further ado, I'm going to let the hero of the novel, Flex, spin a fly mix tape of music to read Sweet Sensation to.


Introducing deejay turned super producer Fredrick "Flex" Towns III and the Sweet Sensation Mixtape Volume One...

~ Prologue "Superwoman," Lil' Mo featuring Fabolous
All I can say is "dadadada dadadada damn…" This song is the perfect intro song for when we meet the heroine, Deidre "Sweet Dee" James. She's been holding it down as a single, working mother and doing a great job at it. Too bad her whole world is about to get rocked…
~ Chapter 1 "Who Can I Run To?" Xscape
The Jones Girls did the first version of this song. Since it is a hip-hop love story I went with the Xscape version. But either version is fine. I love the lyrics and the conflict the lyrics show. The excerpt that I posted on my website comes from this chapter. And I think given the fact that Deidre's life is spinning out of control at this moment, it fits. Here are some of the lyrics: "As I stand here contemplating on the right thing to decide... Will I take the wrong direction all my life? … I have strong determination and I’m not afraid of change…"
~ Chapter 2 "Left Me Lonely," MC Shan
Flex finds out some news about his past love that has some huge implications for his future... And... well... he can't help but wonder…"Girl why'd you have to leave me that way I love you till this day and it hurts to think of the words you used to say. Girl, why did you have to leave for so long? I'd never did you wrong..."
~ Chapter 3 "Just the 2 of Us," Will Smith
"From the first time the doctor placed you in my arms, I knew I'd met death before I let you met harm…" I love this song because it represents hip-hop heads growing up, becoming parents and maturing. And that's a big theme in the novel also. What happens when hip-hoppers grow up and have to raise children of their own?
~ Chapter 4 "A Teenage Love," Slick Rick
Angst, drama, emotions… Why did teenage love always seem so life or death... all or nothing? Flex and Sweet Dee know a little something about Slick Rick's lyrics… "Don't hurt me again… don't… don't… don't hurt me again…"
~ Chapter 5 "Dear Mama," 2Pac
Misunderstandings and conflict have plagued the cross-generational dialogues about hip-hop in black communities. Sweet Sensation examines several generations in a family and it gets pretty interesting once they start talking to one another…
~ Chapter 6 "Always on Time," Ja Rule featuring Ashanti
What would you do if your ex showed up at your door thirteen years later talking about do the right thing and marry me, girl? "Baby, I'm not always there when you call. But I'm always on time. And I gave you my all now baby be mine."
~ Chapter 7 "Ex-Factor," Lauryn Hill
And what would you do if your hard headed ex wouldn't try and see reason and just accept your proposal so that you can protect her? "It could all be so simple. But you'd rather make it hard. Loving you is like a battle and we've both been dealt the scars… No one loves you more than me and no one ever will…" This is one of my all time favorite songs! Come back Lauryn, come back! Please!
~ Chapter 8 "Daddy's Little Girl," Nikki D
"Daddy never had a clue of what his little girl would do…" I miss Nikki D. Where are you Nikki D? Sweet Sensation is for you and all the other great femcees to ever bless the microphone.
~ Chapter 9 "Keep Ya Head Up," 2Pac
Just got to go with some of Pac's lyrics here. "Some so the blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice. They say the darker the flesh then the deeper the roots. I give a holla to my sistas on welfare. 2Pac cares if don't nobody else care… And since we all came from a woman. Got our name from a woman and our game from a woman. I wonder why we hate our women…"
~ Chapter 10 "I'll Do For You," Father MC featuring Mary J. Blige
"If you do for me, I'll do for you…" What ever happened to Father MC? I miss you Father MC... This is the song that first brought the wonderful Mary J Blige to our ears. Thank God for that!
~ Chapter 11 "Destroy and Rebuild," Nas
I love this song because Nas is showing love for his 'hood at the same time that he is calling for overhaul and change. “‘Cause gangsta do gangsta shit. Real recognize real. Still laughing to the bank and shit…” Stillmatic is my favorite Nas album.
~ Chapter 12 "Hush," LL Cool J
This is the perfect song for when Flex is trying to convince Deidre to marry him... “Everything will be okay if you do it my way, my way, my way…” (See video below)
~ Chapter 13 "Old Times Sake," Sweet Sable
"Long time no see. What ya been doing? Is everything all right? I know you know. That I been cooling. Even though, I been out of sight. This time don't leave me, hanging around. I just want to love you down…" This is one of my favorite songs. I like the version of this song with Nikki Nicole rapping. She ends her verse with "A hip-hop love song, a song, a song you can sing along..."
~ Chapter 14 "I'll Be There For You/You're All I Need to Get By," Method Man featuring Mary J Blige
I love this song because it blends that old school R&B flava with hip-hop in order to create the quintessential hip-hop love song. And in the video, Method Man goes to the store and purchases feminine products for his girlfriend. Now that's how a man shows his love. LOL.
~ Chapter 15 "Lost Ones," Lauryn Hill
"Funny how money changes situations. My emancipation don’t fit your equation…" The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is the best hip-hop album ever. Come back Lauryn, come back!
~ Chapter 16 "It's Bigger than Hip-Hop," Dead Prez
"One thing 'bout music when it hits you feel no pain. White folks say it controls your brain. But I know better than that. That's game… All these fake thugs and R&B on the radio…monotonous material… y'all don't hear me though..."
~ Chapter 17 "Bonita Applebum," Tribe Called Quest
This is a classic hip-hop wooing love song and it is the perfect song for the chapter when our hero decides it time to stop playing and really put his mack game down hard. LOL. "Bonita Applebum… You gotta put me on…" One part smooth, one part begging, two parts irresistible..." One of my favorite songs (Okay... really I had a big crush on Q-Tip from A Tribe Called Quest...)
~ Chapter 18 "My Place," Nelly featuring Jaheim
With Jaheim singing those Teddy Pendergrass lyrics, "Won't you come on and go with me, come on over to my place…" And Nelly getting his sing/rap croon on with these lyrics, "Shorty, where ya been? Feels like a long time, a long long time since I seen ya…. Yes it has girl... And I know I said some messed up things to you before, but girl you know I didn't mean it…. When we laugh and we cry it's together, through the rain and the stormiest weather, we gonna still be as one, it's forever…"
~ Chapter 19 "Kissing You," Total
I don't have to give any hints about what might happen in this chapter... So, I'll just give you some lyrics, "I don't care who knows. It doesn't matter who sees. Me thinking about you makes my life complete. And what I mean by that. Is you're my best-kept secret. You're my pride and joy boy, that's why I'm dreaming of you. I wanna kiss you…"
~ Chapter 20 "Mind Sex," Dead Prez
Perfect for keeping the sexual tension going in a romance novel, I’d say… :-) "We can have mind sex. We ain't gotta take our clothes of yet…"
~ Chapter 21 "Sweetest Thing," Lauryn Hill
I love this song. Love it! It is probably one of my favorites. "The sweetest thing I've ever known was like a kiss on the collarbone. The soft caress of happiness…The way you walk, your style of dress… Intoxicating… Oh… So, intoxicating…"
~ Chapter 22 "I'm So Into You," SWV
"I'm so into you… Don't know what I'm gonna do… Got me so confused…." SWV needs to get back together. I miss them! Hey, SWV, where are you? Come back…
~ Chapter 23 "All I See," A+
A+ was a little kid rapping before Lil' Bow Wow and Romeo. He had a nice flow too. I wonder what ever happened to him… "Girl all I see is you and me and all I do is think of you. Give me the chance to know your name and I'll never leave and walk away…"
~ Chapter 24 "If Headz Only Knew," Heather B
Remember Heather B from the first MTV The Real World? She was a bad femcee! Where is Heather B? Sweet Sensation is for you, girl! "If headz only knew how I felt about the rap game, they’d know I ain’t going out…"
~ Chapter 25 "I Need Love," LL Cool J
This was one of the first hip-hop love songs, one of the first times you had a guy getting on the microphone and rapping about love and vulnerability. [Stops to wipe a tear from her eye] The lyrics weren't all that hot. But the meaning behind the lyrics... priceless…LOL.
~ Chapter 26 "Bag Lady," Erykah Badu
This is neo-soul classic about self-love and letting go of all the things that stop you from experiencing a fuller and happier life. It is also one of my personal favorites. "Bag lady you gonna hurt your back, dragging all those bags like that. I guess nobody ever told you… all you must hold on to is you, is you, is you…"
~ Chapter 27, "Real Love," Mary J. Blige
This is another favorite and my introduction to Mary J. Blige. This song came out my senior year of college and I was err… umm… going through some things at the time… Needless to say, I became a Mary J. Blige fan for life because that What's the 411 album spoke to a sista on so many levels. "Real love…. I'm searching for a real love… Someone to make my heart sing… Real love… I'm searching for a real love… Got to have a real love… Love so true… Oh, baby, I thought that love was you…"
~ Chapter 28 "I Can," Nas
"I know I can… be what I want to be… If I work hard at it… I'll be where I want to be…" A positive rap for the kiddies to give them hope for the bright futures they can have, this song shows a love of community in hip-hop.
~ Chapter 29 "Down 4 U," Ja Rule featuring Ashanti, Charlie Baltimore and Vita
"Every thug need a lady…." Usually I don't condone the 'down-ass chick" mentality. But at this point in the novel, Flex and Deidre really needed to be down for one another...
~ Chapter 30 "Song Cry," Jay Z
"Can't see them coming down my eyes. So I have to make the song cry… You know you love me like cooked food, even though a brother got moves like a crook moves." I love this song!
~ Chapter 31 "Wifey," Next
"Will you be my wifey? … Yes, I'll be your wifey…" And they lived happily ever after…

So, I'll leave you with a video from Uncle "Ladies Love" "Licking Lips" LL Cool J, one of the first to cut a hip-hop love song with his hit "I Need Love." Still looking good Uncle L. Holla! This is the perfect video representation of Flex and Deidre's love story because the couple in the video has a history from their teenage years to their adult years. And since Flex is trying to get Deidre to do things his way it can almost be their theme song. So check out LL’s video "Hush." And then let me know what you think about the combination of romantic love and hip-hop. Do you see the two going together? Or, do you think it is a bit of an oxymoron? Do you have a favorite hip-hop love song? What is it?

Contest: Who's Your Favorite?

Hi All,

Well, I've decided to run my first contest and I hope that you all will enter. I've decided to share some of my author copies of Cuffed By Candlelight as the prizes. And I will be giving away one a week for the entire month of March. All you have to do to be entered in the drawing is go to my website and tell me who your favorite Gwyneth Bolton character is and why. Entering the contest will add you to my e-mail and print mailing list. But I'm not that much of a pest and I won't bombard you with stuff. I promise. You only enter once and then your name is added to the drawing bag. Four lucky people will get copies of Cuffed by Candlelight signed by me. It's that simple. So stop by my website and enter today!

My Website

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

APOOO Gives Divine Destiny 5 Stars!

The review from APOOO Book Club is in and they gave it five stars. Here's an excerpt from the review: "As a fan of science fiction and fantasy, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. Ms. Bolton's ability to weave a story with just the right amount of conflict and romance is nothing short of remarkable. In addition, her characters were unforgettable. Long after the last page was turned, I found myself thinking about Kara and Darwu. If you are a fan of romance, with a little mix of science fiction and enough steamy romance scenes to keep your eyes glued to the pages, Divine Destiny is a definite must read." ~ T. RHYTHM KNIGHT of APOOOBookClub

Rats! Tagged Yet Again!

The wonderful Bella tagged me. And this time I have to give six to ten weird things about me. So, here are some quirky little idiosyncrasies that I bet you’re just dying to know about me.

1. I refuse to drink or eat after other people, not even my husband. He thinks this is funny, by the way, since I will kiss him and share all the other intimacies that spouses share, but won’t let him have a sip of my soda or take a sip of his after he’s taken a drink from it. I’ve been this way ever since I was a kid, for as long as I can remember. So, I probably won’t be changing any time soon. In fact, once when I was five I had a fit because my grandmother took a sip of my soda. Five-year-old me decided to turn the straw around. And dear grandma said, "You ain't doing nothing but putting the germs on the inside." Horrified five-year-old me didn't finish the soda. Grandma did however. LOL.

2. I have a very low tolerance for pain. So low that I don’t like hearing about it. If someone is around me and they start talking about anything remotely painful, bloody, etc. I make them stop. I think it's because I have a pretty vivid imagination.

3. From the time I was eleven until the time I was sixteen, I wanted to be an emcee. I had skills too. LOL.

4. My family nickname is Kitten. My father gave me the nickname because of the way I used to ball up under my mother and sleep when I was a baby. There are still members of my family who don’t know my real name. In fact, when I was in high school I was at an uncle’s house after a funeral and I’d given my boyfriend at the time the number there so that he could call me. He kept calling and asking for Gwen and they kept telling him he had the wrong number. Finally he wised up and asked for Kitten and they gave me the phone.

5. Oh, and even though I still have to ball up in bed to get to sleep at night, when I wake up in the morning I’m all over the bed and I have wrapped all the cover around me, much to my husband’s delight. LOL. So I guess I’m a wild sleeper and a cover hog. LOL.

6. I’m very, very shy. People always act so shocked when I say it. But it’s true. Honest.

That’s it. That’s all you get today. A girl has to keep some secrets. And I’m doing my blog buddies a favor and I won’t tag anyone this time. But if I’m tagged again, I will get you my pretties. *evil laugh*

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

I Learned Everything I Ever Needed to Know About Supporting Characters from Watching Dream Girls

Okay... not really... But... It makes an interesting title; so, I'll keep it. With Jennifer Hudson up for the Best Supporting Actress Academy Award for the role of Effie White in Dream Girls, which Jennifer Holliday won the Tony Award for Best Leading Actress in a Musical for in 1982, it seems only fitting that there be some kind of writing lesson here. So here's the lesson as far as I can piece it together.

You see, I read the article in Jet Magazine where Jennifer Holliday reflects on that moment. And while scholar/professor me would cringe at the thought of using Jet Magazine as a citation source, cultural critic me knows that the old saying "if you didn’t read it in Jet Magazine, it didn't happen in the black community" exists for a reason. And romance writer me, could care less about citation source blah, blah, blah. So, anyway... As the story goes, the character of Effie White may very well indeed have started out a "supporting role," a "side character" so to speak. But by the time Jennifer Holliday got done fighting for her character, the character had extra songs in the musical, more space to shine and most important, the character did not die.

When you add to this the fact that the original play is said to have been created for Nell Carter, and you know she wasn't going to play no Deena Jones... and you know she would have been the star not a supporting character... then the fact that the role of Effie has somehow become a supporting role seems all the more strange… but I digress… Because anyone who has seen the film knows that Jennifer Hudson's performance in this role, like Jennifer Holliday's before it, was not a "supporting character." She was the star of the film. The script and writing dictated it. If you take away the character Effie then you have no story. Adding the song "Listen" does not make Beyonce Knowles's portrayal of Deena Jones become the "lead" in the story. They needed to rewrite the script for that. And since I promised there would be a writing lesson here, I'll add that there is a certain finesse to writing truly supporting characters that Dream Girls, the film becomes the perfect "how not to" template for. In fact, the film breaks key supporting character rules that writers should be mindful of when they create side plots and side characters. First, your supporting characters are there for support. The main action should happen to the leads, your heros and heroines. In the beginning of the play and film, the action happens to the girl group and that is fine. But as we watch the film, where does the drama really unfold? Who do we find ourselves on the edge of our seats caring about, wondering what will happen next to her, damn near crying (okay, I really did cry, but I'll never admit it) for when life dealt her another blow? If you say anyone but Effie White, you're a liar and the truth ain't in ya! This leads me to the second supporting character rule, readers should like the support cast and be interested in them yes. But if the reader starts to like the supporting cast more than the lead… if we become more interested in what happens to the side characters and could care less if the so-called lead is there or not… we have a writing problem. I'm sure we've all read books where we've experienced this. We could care less about the hero or heroine but that spunky friend, that witty comrade, now that's someone we'd like to get to know. As writers, I'm sure we've all had side characters that are just begging for their own books. And most of us know how to give just enough of these characters so that they don't outshine the lead. Which leads me finally back to Dream Girls and the character Effie. She wasn't a supporting character in the play's debut in 1981. And no matter what they billing the film role today--or why they billed it that way--she is not a supporting character now. The play just wasn't written for her to be sidelined. The writing dictates that she's the star. The fighting that Jennifer Holliday did for the role back in the eighties demanded that the she be a star. The performance that both Jennifer's contributed to the role demands that they be awarded "Best Actress," not "Best Supporting Actress." But nevertheless, there are writing lessons to be learned by watching the film. I found one. Now, I can call watching the film writing research. ;-) What do you all think? Do you have any thoughts about supporting characters and side stories? Do you think Jennifer Hudson is being cheated of the rightful nomination of Best Actress? Do tell...

Excerpt from Sweet Sensation

Hi All,

I've posted an excerpt from my forthcoming release, Sweet Sensation, on my website. Check it out if you'd like and let me know what you think.

Sweet Sensation Excerpt

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! I'm sending you all virtual flowers, cyber hugs, and lots of yummy Internet chocolates. If you close your eyes you can almost smell the roses. For those of you dealing with this big snowstorm that hit us here in Central New York, I sent some webilicious hot cocoa with marshmallows. Enjoy yourselves!

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Eddie, Eddie, Eddie...

Just when I thought I might have to take you seriously... Just when I thought you might be on the verge of making a comeback...


You come out with this...


I'll be honest, I haven't seen the film yet. I probably won't go see the film. From what I've seen of the previews, I can't imagine who would want to see the film. But if there is an audience for "Flava of Love, "I Love New York," and "Soul Plane" I guess there must be an audience for "Norbit"... I have no words. What do you all think?

Romance Slam Jam and Emma Awards

It's almost that time of year again! The Romance Slam Jam will be held in Miami Florida this year! I'll be there with a lot of other very talented authors. I can't wait! Going to Miami from Syracuse in the middle of March is going to be such an inconvenience for me... But, I'm going to try my best not to think about all the cold and snow I'll be leaving behind for Miami sunshine... ;-)

Check out the website for more information. And who knows, maybe I'll see you there...

Romance Slam Jam 2007

Also, the nominations are open for this year's Emma Awards. So be sure to get your nominations in! There were lots of wonderful award-worthy books written this year by some stunning writers. (And I wouldn't be mad at you if you nominated a certain newcomer named Gwyneth Bolton for your favorite new author). :-) But honestly, there were so many wonderful new authors in 2006 that I'd truly be happy to see any of them win, Ann Christopher, Deatri King-Bey, Patricia Sargeant, Sheila Goss and Phyllis Bourne Williams, just to name a few. So anyway, here are the categories:

Emma Award Nominations for 2007

Award Guidelines

The Emma Awards for Romance Slam Jam 2007 will be decided on by the attendees of the conference. Each conference attendee will submit their choice for the individual categories and the books. Books eligible for the awards must have been copyrighted/published between Janaury 1, 2006 through December 31, 2006.

The voting categories are:

Book of the Year
Favorite Anthology
Favortie New Author
Favortie Hero
Favorite Heroine
Favortie Book Cover
Favorite Sequel in a Romance Series
Favorite Steamy Romance
Favorite Romance Suspense
Favorite Inspirational Romance
Favorite Novella
Favorite Author

We will start accepting nominations the first week of February 2007 through February 27, 2007. Please send your nominations in attachement form to cclymorrison@yahoo.com

You can download the form from their website.

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

February Interview with Katherine D. Jones

GB: Welcome, Katherine! I'm so glad that you were able to spare a moment to visit my blog and do an interview. I know that you are really busy with work, writing, being a wife and mom. So, let's start with that. How do you manage it all? How do you juggle a busy life with your writing and publishing?

KDJ: For the most part, I just let things fall through the cracks and then go crazy! LOL. Actually, my new position allows me much more freedom. I was working as an investigator for child abuse and neglect, but it was overwhelming, so I only lasted nine months. Now, I'm home by 5:30 and I find that I'm able to be the wife, mother, and writer that I need to be. I write every night and when things are slow at work, I'll write or read during lunch. It's a schedule that works well for me.

GB: You have written for several publishers, with books published by Arabesque, Dafina and now Parker Publishing, LLC. What has your road to becoming a published author been like? Tell us a little bit about your journey.

KDJ: I started with a two book contract with BET Books, which was smooth, but then, just when I thought I'd made it, my road took a decidedly crooked turn. My third book was rejected by BET, but thankfully after a few revisions, I was able to sell to Dafina. I love working with Kensington and will have two more releases coming out next year with them. Now, the Parker Publishing contract was just pure luck! My name was recommended by one of my good writer friends, Angie Daniels, and after a wonderful conversation with the acquisitions editor, Angelique, I signed with them.

GB: You have really made a name for yourself in the area of romantic suspense. Your Special Corruption Unit series and your other works to date all share that unique and thrilling blend of romance, suspense and mystery. Have you always been interested in writing these kinds of stories? Is this something we can expect more of in the future?

KDJ: Aw shucks, thank you.
I didn't start to read romance until 1997. My first romance was "Through the Storm" by Beverly Jenkins. The first Arabesque book I read was a Robyn Amos book…"Private Lies." After reading them, I was hooked. Prior to that I'd only read mystery, espionage, or thriller books. It was what my parents read and the only books in the house. To this day, my favorite authors are Robert Ludlum, John Grisham, Tom Clancy, and Sidney Sheldon. My next Kensington release, "Make Me Do For Love" will continue to combine romantic and suspenseful elements.

GB: I love that title! "Make Me Do For Love" it brings all kinds of images to mind...
But, back to the Special Corruption Unit... what was your inspiration for these novels? I have to say, as someone who occasionally watches shows like "CSI," "Law and Order" and "Criminal Minds," I can see the automatic appeal of these kinds of novels. They blend life's drama and relationships with the excitement of whodunit and catching the bad guy. Is that what you were aiming for with the Special Corruption Unit?

KDJ: Yes, I wanted to do something a little different with my books. I love to write romance, but I need to have a little twist in what I read. I love male authors such as Ludlum, Grisham, and Clancy because they just give it to you straight--no chaser. That appeals to me, but I want women to enjoy the stories as well, so I soften the edges a little bit.

GB: Can you tell us a little something about each book in the series and how they connect? Also, I know you've said that "Deep Down" was the last book in the series, but… is it really? Can we expect more from the Special Corruption Unit in the future?

KDJ: Book one is "Love Worth Fighting For," which is about Tangie Taylor and SCU agent, Eric Duvernay. Their story has the back drop of the Chilean Cartel, from which Tangie has to be rescued. In this story the agents involved in the case must find out who is killing members of a basketball team from Chile. The killings come to a head with the death of a Virginia born player, Bubba Fraser. Soon the FBI learns that Kevin is targeted and he is placed in protective custody…too late. He and Tangie are kidnapped and the SCU must launch a rescue. Tangie has been through the loss of her relationship and has trust issues that prevent her from fully giving her heart to Eric. The scenes after the rescue show her that they have a love that is worth fighting for…and they do.

The rescue at the end of the book involves agent Maria Thomas. Book two is the story of Maria and Kevin. Kevin becomes Alex Milbon in his new life as a club owner in Memphis, TN. The unit decides to use him once they realize that Kevin/Alex unwittingly comes in contact with her during her undercover operation with the Russian mafia.

Book three involves the couple who serve as Maria's back up, Rod and Helene. They have their own story in "Undercover Lover," which was released in December 2005. The story is set in San Antonio and involves Internet fraud, hacking and home invasions.


The final story in the series involves senior agents Beatrice McCoy and Michael Spates. Their story is "Deep Down" and it involves the Jamaican mafia system or posses as they are called. The story takes place in West Virginia…with a couple of my favorite places and things highlighted such as The Greenbrier resort in White Sulphur Springs, WV. I had the occasion to spend time there when I was a teen and loved it! I enjoyed being to talk about it in the book.

"Make Me Do For Love" takes place in North Carolina in the 1960's but that's all I'll say about it now. Stay tuned!

GB: I feel so honored to be a part of an anthology that features novellas by yourself and Beverly Jenkins. You have certainly made a name for yourself in the area of romantic suspense and Beverly's contemporary novels are showing that she can bring the mystery, drama and action to the present day as well. So tell us a little something about your novella in Cuffed by Candlelight: An Erotic Romance Anthology, "Gunn and Roses." I read it and it is full of suspense and HEAT. Great job!

KDJ: It was more than a treat to do the anthology with Beverly and you. It was a great learning experience one which greatly enhanced my writing…Deatri is a wonderful editor. She put up with a lot from me, and I'm sooo glad she did.
I'm really looking forward to writing more emotional characters…but with heat and action.
And thanks for the compliment! It was a lot of fun to write Stephanie Gunn's story. I enjoyed the heat between Stephanie and Bryant--and hopefully readers will too.

GB: Deatri was my editor for "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me" and "Cuffed by Candlelight." She rocks!
So, speaking of heat, a little birdie told me to expect a little more heat from you in future releases. How have you found writing the spicier novels? The covers look hot and I can't wait to read them. But tell us a little more about these H-O-T new novels.


KDJ: I'm very excited…hee hee, no pun intended, to be writing novels with a little more steam for Parker Publishing. My goal for my future books is to kick it up a notch with action, romance and steam. Readers will have to let me know if I accomplish the goal. The first novel is "Cuffed by Candlelight," which is a February release. My next novel is "Dangerous Dilemmas" which will be released in March. I have two more scheduled for 2008 release, but I'll save that information for later. Readers, you'll just have to keep watching my website for more information: Katherine's Website

GB: Did you always know you wanted to be a romance writer? Did you read a lot of romance before you decided to become a published author?

KDJ: I never dreamed of being a writer. I thought I would work for the government…make a career out of that and become a mother. I never imagined the exciting turn my life would take back in January 2003. That call from Chandra Taylor has forever changed my outlook, my relationships, and apparently, my employment destiny. (Smile)

GB: Who are some of your favorite writers? And, what are you reading right now?

KDJ: I always try to read books in the genre that I am writing. Some of my favorites in the romance world are Beverly Jenkins, Rochelle Alers, Maureen Smith, Angie Daniels, Shelia Goss, Karen White-Owens, Nathasha Brooks Harris, Mary Balogh and of course, you!
I finished "If Only You Knew" and "Heated" by Niobia Bryant last month. This month, is Parker Publishing month and I'm reading "A Delight Before Christmas," "Divine Destiny," "Taming the Wolf," and "Beauty and the Beast."

GB: Awwww... Girl, now you're making me blush! Stop that! That's my job. LOL. Anyway... Do you have any words of wisdom to share with aspiring writers?

KDJ: Yes, just continue to write! Too often new writers will start a project, but not have enough self confidence to finish. You'll never succeed if you don't have a completed book--so finish and submit!

GB: How can readers get in touch with you?

KDJ: My email address is writeme@katherinedjones.com and my website is Katherine's Website

GB: Thanks so much for sparing the time for an interview!

Interviews!

I've been interviewed! You can check it out over on Ann Christopher's Blog. Stop by and ask a question or two or three. ;-) I just finished Ann's novel Risk. And I'll be blogging about it later this week. Pick it up if you want a good read. Also, she has agreed to be my March author. Yay!

And if you still want to know more about all my deep and dirty secrets and haven't checked out my interview on Delilah Dawson's Blog, be sure to check that out too!

Now, I'm off for a day of teaching... :-)

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

I Got My Author Copies of Sweet Sensation!

So, speaking of Sweet Sensation... I just got my author copies in the mail! Yay! (You don't realize what a big deal this is for me. Usually folks are calling me saying 'I saw your book in the store' before I hold my author copies.) Anyway, they changed the cover a little. They made my name smaller so that you can actually read it. Yay! I'm very glad about that. I know most people say the bigger your name is on the book, the better. But what does it matter if it is not readable. Anyway, I'm doing the happy dance right now because I'm holding my fourth novel in my hands. And I wanted to give you guys some music so you can join me. So here's Erykah Badu's "Love of My Life" to jam to. It is perhaps the best hip-hop love song ever. And it was on the soundtrack for what is probably the best hip-hop romantic comedy movie ever, Brown Sugar. And, I hope one day people are saying that Sweet Sensation is the best hip-hop romance novel ever... Oh wait, DeltaReviewer already said that about Sweet Sensation. :-)

So, here's Erykah Badu:


Happy dance with me! :-)

Romance Junkies and Romantic Times Reviews for Sweet Sensation! And an interview!

Sweet Sensation-my March release-got two great reviews from Romance Junkies and Romantic Times Book Review! Romance Junkies gave it 5 stars and Romantic Times gave it 4 stars. I'm really excited about the reviews that Sweet Sensation and my novella in Cuffed have gotten, because I really think that I finally found my voice in these pieces. Anyway, here are some excerpts from the reviews.

Also, check out my interview on Delilah Dawson's Blog! And if you haven't read Delilah Dawson's newest novel, Something Naughty, what are you waiting for? :-)


Romance Junkies 5 Stars!
"Ex hip-hop artist Sweet Dee was living a nice simple existence until a 'Whatever Happened to . . . ?' show exposed the fact that she'd had producer and record label owner Flex's love child. Her life is turned upside down when Flex reenters her life and insists that they marry. It doesn't matter that Kayla is no longer a baby. He wants both 'his' women living with him as soon as possible... Gwyneth Bolton brings readers into the exciting and sometimes dangerous world of hip-hop with her newest book SWEET SENSATION. We were first introduced to Flex and Sweet Dee in Ms. Bolton's first book I'M GONNA MAKE YOU LOVE ME and I've been anxiously awaiting their story ever since. I've gotta tell you I loved the attitude and spirit that are apparent throughout this storyline. It's full of all the culture and enthusiasm I remember from when hip-hop first became so popular...Deidre and Kayla are so very much alike I just adored the scenes where they expressed their differing views on Deidre marrying Flex and Kayla's plan to become a rapper. The scene where they indulge in a free-style battle is just hilarious. Flex and Deidre may not have been together over the past decade but it's obvious the feelings are still there. They have issues - both past and present - that need to be addressed and there's no shortage of heated moments between them. Congratulations Ms. Bolton on yet another fabulous story!" -- Chrissy Dionne

Romantic Times Book Review 4 Stars!
"Instead of another 'hip-hop' book filled with violence, sex and drugs, Bolton's latest surprises with the sweet story of Flex, a scrawny, preppy high school boy who becomes a sexy music mogul. Readers will root for him to reclaim his former love." - Robin R. Pendleton

Rats! Tagged Again!

So, it appears as if Ms. Chicki took it upon herself to tag me on Friday. Just my luck I went over to her blog today and noticed that I'd been tagged. Rats!

So, here are the rules:

1. Grab the book closest to you.
2. Open to page 123, look down to the 5th sentence.
3. Post the text of the next 3 sentences on your blog.
4. Include the title and the author's name.
5. Tag 3 people

Well, I just went to the bookstore last night in hopes that the February books would hit the shelves early. I went looking for L.A. Banks' The Wicked and Ann Christopher's Risk. L. A. Banks' newest wasn't on the shelves. But I got a hold of Ann Christopher's Risk. I loved her first novel, Trouble. And I can't wait to read her newest release. So I put it on top of my toppling over to-be-read pile. So, guess which book is closest to me right now. That's right, Risk! Give yourselves a round of applause.


"Her mind veered off onto the times she'd asked Ronnie if they could vacation somewhere else besides Martha's Vineyard, only to be shot down. And the times she'd wanted to try a new restaurant or play or DVD, only to have Ronnie talk her out of it. And the times—way to numerous to count—she'd tried to talk with him about her day or her clients of her pressures, only to have him roll his eyes and say she didn't know anything about pressures because she didn't have people's lives in her hands like he did." ~ Ann Christopher, Risk

Dang… Now I really want to read this book. Can't wait! If it is anywhere near as good as her first release, Trouble, then I am in for a treat. Ann will be visiting my blog for an interview in March. SO be sure to check that out.

Now, I have to tag three people huh… well… since Elle is always tagging folks, I'll tag her. And I do believe Kari has tagged me before. And, how about Michelle to round it out...

Have fun ladies ;-)

Hooray for Hollywood...On the Real!

Well, Dream Girls didn't get the Screen Actor's Guild Award for Best Ensemble Cast in a Film... But they did show the sistas some love this evening. The cast of Grey's Anatomy won for Best Ensemble Cast on a TV Drama. So, yay for Shonda Rhimes! I love that show!

My girl, Chandra Wilson won an award for her portrayal of Dr. Miranda Bailey on Grey's Anatomy. And her speech was a hoot. She even gave a shout out to the brotha in rehab. LOL. And she even made mention of the fact that she was going home to show her award to her daughters so that they can see what is possible even with her skin, nose, height and weight. Really positive!

And Jennifer Hudson won Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Effie in Dream Girls. In my opinion, she should have been in the running for best actress. There wasn't anything supporting about that role. There wouldn't be a movie without Effie and Jennifer Hudson steals the show from everyone. Heck, she's the star. They're supporting her... but that's another post. Anyway, it looks like Hollywood is finally showing thicker sista some love. And they didn't have to play maids or prostitutes to get the statue. We'll see what happens at the Oscars... But, dare I start to feel a little hopeful... Probably not wise... I'll just bask in the fact that tonight three thicker sistas got some well-deserved props and hope that it continues. In any case, congratulations to Chandra Wilson and Jennifer Hudson! Well done ladies! Well done!

Divine Destiny Gets Five Fallen Angels!

Click here to read the entire review:

Fallen Angels Review for Divine Destiny

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Real Page Turners Gave Cuffed Five Stars!

Check out the review here:

Real Page Turners

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Excerpt from my Cuffed By Candlelight Novella

Cuffed by Candlelight: An Erotic Romance Anthology
With Novellas by: Beverly Jenkins, Gwyneth Bolton, and Katherine D. Jones
Parker Publishing, LLC
February 2007

Blurb for my novella "Handcuffs Mean Never Having To Say You're Sorry"

Why try to reason...

DEA Agent Lance King has been watching over Tamara Downing ever since she was a kid and he will continue to look out for her, whether she likes it or not. In fact, he thinks it's high time she comes to term with the fact that they are meant to be together. If only he could figure out a way to get her to stay still long enough to listen to him. Steamy, sultry, lovemaking might just do the trick... She has to be able to see reason eventually. Doesn't she?

When you've got handcuffs...

Newly minted Police Detective Tamara Downing has made it her business to stay away from the man she gave her virginity to, especially since in the process he stole her heart and handed it back to her permanently broken. There is nothing Lance can tell her to get her to understand why he took it upon himself to meddle in her most recent case. But then she never has found another lover quite like him... She could stick around long enough to get some sexual maintenance and make Lance see exactly what he walked away from ten-years ago. He can't be serious about all this love and marriage stuff anyway. Can he?

Their journey to love becomes a test of wills laced with passion and desire. Will they get to a space where their love can prevail?

Excerpt from "Handcuffs Mean Never Having to Say You're Sorry"

"Pull out ya nine, while I cock on mine--" Tamara Downing left the four-story brick building that housed Murder Row records rapping Lil' Kim lyrics and aiming her imaginary gun. Her real Newark PD issued piece was in the car. Yes, things were going her way. Tommy Coles had finally noticed she was alive, and it would only be a matter of time before she could put his behind up under the jail. NPD believed that he ran a prostitution ring out of Murder Row, luring girls in with dreams of stardom. Several of his former "video models" had gone missing, and one was badly beaten but wouldn't talk.

The ringing of her cell phone snapped her out of her momentary reverie, and she quickly answered it as she made her way from the building to her car. She'd just turned the dang thing on again since she always turned it off when she was working.

Giving the dark parking lot a quick once over, she mentally prepared herself for any trouble. Murder Row Records was known for unsavory characters, and she had no desire to get caught out there by someone who saw her as an easy mark. And, even though she'd been born in Newark and raised in East Orange, New Jersey, she knew that dark parking lots in Brick City--Newark's unofficial nickname--didn't mix with petite young women in super-tight lycra mini dresses. She could more than handle herself if pressed to do so, but it wouldn't exactly bode well with her undercover assignment if she started going all Alias and Xena-Warrior Princess in the parking lot.

Letting her feet move a little faster when she spotted two strange looking men in the shadows, Kara answered her phone softly. "Yeah." She tried to answer it as quickly as possible. The Lil' Kim ring tone she’d downloaded that played "Shut Up, Bitch" just might have given the jerks in the parking lot the wrong idea.

"It's about time you answered the phone, baby. I've been so worried about you. You didn't stop by the past two Saturdays like you normally do."

Mama Paula. Tamara loved the woman who'd saved her life by taking her in after her mother died. But Mama Paula brought worrying to new height.

"I'm fine, Mama Paula. Honest. But I can't talk now." Holding her cell phone to her ear with her shoulder, she started to unlock the door to her red poor-girl's version of a sports car.

Mama Paula hesitated slightly, and Tamara knew instinctively that couldn't be good. Mama Paula only went silent when she felt a little bit guilty or ill at ease about something she'd done. When it came to Tamara's life or business that could only mean one thing. "Oh. Okay. I was just worried. That's why I asked Lance to--"

Several curse words ran through her head, but she had way too much respect for Mama Paula to utter any of them. "Oh, Mama Paula, tell me you didn't ask Lance to check up on me. You know I don’t like the way he steps in and tries to--"

Before Tamara could finish her sentence, a gun and a badge were in her face. The shadowed men that she'd thought were thugs turned out to be something worse.

"Unh, Mama Paula, I have to go now." Tamara hung up the phone without waiting for a response. One of the men had already started cuffing her, and he clearly needed her other hand free to finish the job.

Romance Junkies Gives Cuffed Five Blue Ribbons!

Here's an excerpt from the review:
"Break out the handcuffs, light some candles and indulge yourself in these three passionate tales written by Beverly Jenkins, Gwyneth Bolton and Katherine D. Jones...
Gwyneth Bolton finals out this thrilling anthology with a fantastic storyline and kick butt heroine whom readers are going to love. Tamara is brave, daring, and not about to sit back and let Lance play the 'knight in shining armor' for her. I had to laugh at the dialogue between Tamara and Lance. It's so obvious that they have unresolved issues and neither of them is willing to back down or admit to needing each other. This story is feisty and filled with all the emotional turmoil that I've come to expect when picking up one of Ms. Bolton's tales...
All of the stories contained within the CUFFED BY CANDLELIGHT anthology are simply delightful. The one thing I did notice that all three stories have in common is brave women who are not afraid to stand up for what they believe or the men they love. Each of these authors brought daring characters, thrilling plots, and super hot sex into this one dynamic anthology. Handcuffs have never been so sexy." -- Chrissy Dionne for Romance Junkies

Two birds with one stone... (Because Elle tagged me again and I have something to say about Isaiah)

He opened his mouth and hate spilled.



So, Elle tagged me to tell a story in six words. And I wanted to say something about the Isaiah Washington situation. So, I'm killing two birds with one stone in this post. Above is my attempt at the story in six words. And although the tag didn't say I could use visuals, I found this image and it seemed to fit. At first, I thought 'this brother really needs to think before he starts spewing.' But then I thought no, that's not the problem. The problem is his homophobia. The problem is he has issues that he needs to deal with. The problem is not that he should think before he speaks, but that he should deal with his hatred. There is enough hate in the world. He should take a hint from this image of himself and shut up. And then he should do some soul searching and get some help.

That's my two cents. What do you all think?

(Oh and for those who don't know he is one of the stars of the show Grey's Anatomy and he used a homophobic slur to refer to one of his co-stars. It's been all over the news.)

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Deadlines: My Enemy... My Friend...

I need them. I hate them. They motivate me. They rule my life. They keep me focused. They… Well you get the point. You see, for the most part, a person with a tendency to be distracted by things that seem far more interesting than sitting in front of the computer needs deadlines. Before the days of contracts and deadlines, a sister wrote when she was inspired, when the mood struck. Structure? Timelines? Whatever! I was an artist. Punching the clock was for the day job. You couldn't force the muse. And, hey, I was no hack. That was then… Now, inspiration takes her sweet time showing up, especially when work is busy and life is hectic and all my favorite shows are finally back to airing all new episodes. And truth be told if inspiration does try and strike during these times it would be so easy and oh so tempting to put her on hold. It would be that is, if it weren't for those deadlines…

I'm Blogging in Black today. Read the rest of this post here:

Blogging in Black

How about some funny to go with all that sexy?

Well folks, I am about to go back to land of writing, deadlines and no more pleasure reading… At least until I rebel again and say "To hell with deadlines! I'm reading [insert favorite author's or new exciting author's name here] new book!" Honestly, since the semester started Tuesday and I'm back in the classroom, I won't have time to read for fun. Well, not if I want to meet my deadlines… But, anyway, I wanted to share my thoughts on two hot, funny and sexy books that I had the pleasure of reading this past weekend. These books blended some of my favorite things perfectly. They were funny and sexy. And they had the right amount of emotional pull that made me care about the characters and fall in love with them. Oh, and did I mention they were really sexy books? :-)


Delilah Dawson's Something Naughty is an erotic romance that is at the same time HOT and hilarious. I love the 'when opposites attract' storyline at play in the novel. Damon Becker is a straight-laced businessman who is about to head up his family's longstanding business wear company. The company makes fine tailored suits for men and women. So, imagine his surprise when he finds out that his ailing grandmother has struck up a business partnership with a Naughty Devil, a company that sells things like edible underwear, velvet handcuffs and the like. And imagine his surprise when he meets one of the company's owners, the lovely and very sexy Tanika Davis. She pushes him past his comfort zones and he pushes back. She inspires him to delve into his naughty side and when brother man is unleashed… Well, all I can say is get your fan ready! I love the way that Delilah Dawson works the fantasies in ways that are both playful and sexy. And I also love the way she is able to emotionally pull the reader in to the story even with all the fun and sex. That to me is the mark of a wonderfully written erotic romance. I cared deeply about all the characters. If you like a book that will have you laughing out loud one minute and reaching for a fan or a glass of ice water the next, then do yourself a favor and try Something Naughty.


I have been a fan of Adrianne Byrd's writing for a while now. And her February release, When Valentines Collide, will not disappoint longtime readers. It didn't disappoint me at all. In this novel we have Dr. Chante Valentine and Dr. Matthew Valentine, both "love doctors" so to speak. They make their living as relationship experts. They are trained and degreed counselors. They help people stay together for a living. So, imagine the shock and horror that would occur if the world found out that America's top relationship gurus are having a little trouble in their own marriage. This book had so many laugh-out-loud moments that I found myself chuckling just about the entire time I read it. The antics that these two pull on one another had me rolling! But when they connected… when they started to work it out and get it together… Have. Mercy. Hot! I loved the way Adrianne Byrd was able to make their chemistry leap of the page. When they had their knockdown drag outs, it popped. When they were scheming and conniving to one-up one another, it sizzled. When they decided to try and save their marriage with a little sexual healing, it exploded. This book was really good. If you like movies like War of the Roses and Mr. and Mrs. Smith or if you ever wondered what would happen if Oprah hooked up with Dr. Phil, then this book might just make your day.

Happy Reading!

Gwyneth

Haven't I seen you somewhere before?

That's me talking to the covers of my upcoming February and March releases… They have me remixing Mary J. Blige and singing, "You know that you remind me of a cover I once saw… Yes you do, awwww!" Take a look at these and tell me if you see anything familiar...

Cute couple, huh...


Well, here they are again...


Just when I found myself trying to like her a little bit...


I find out she's a cover slut... :-) And here I thought my cover was her one and only love...


Thanks, Deatri for showing me the Troublemaker cover.

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Another Review for Divine Destiny!

Black Butterfly Review gave it 5 Stars!

Here's an excerpt:

"Ms. Bolton has really outdone herself in her transition from the genre of romance to that of erotica. The characters exude strength, determination, and sexual sensuality. The sexual scenes in this book are very believable. In most cases, Ms. Bolton's words will leave you wanting, panting, and eagerly anticipating your next encounter. This is not just a book for your to be read pile, it is definitely a MUST read." -- Eleanor S. Shields for Black Butterfly Review

Check out the Black Butterfly Review site! The full review may be posted some time this week but meanwhile check out all their other reviews here:

Black Butterfly Review

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

First Review for Sweet Sensation!

The first review for my March release, Sweet Sensation, is in. Monique Bruner from the Real Page Turner Reviewers gave it 5 Stars and called it the best hip-hop romance ever! Here's an excerpt from the review:

"Sweet Sensation is one of the BEST hip-hop romances ever written. It has all the elements of hip-hop – love, sex, violence, revenge, lyrical flow and money. Bolton has penned an eloquent all encompassing love story that highlights the importance of family. Sweet Sensation is embedded in the world of hip-hop music and will touch your heart, develop a love of rap music, and rise to bestsellers list in no time." -- Monique Bruner for Real Page Turners

But you can find the full review here:

Real Page Turners

Sing, Celebrate... Sing, Sing Celebrate...

For a King, celebrate...

Since Monday is the day we celebrate a man of vision and strength who worked with others so that this country might live up to its promise of freedom and justice for all, I thought it would be cool to see this old video celebrating the man and his legacy. Let's all take some time on Monday to think about how we can continue to make "The Dream" a reality.



Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Happy Founders' Day!!!

To all my sorors of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated




On January 13, 1913 twenty-two dynamic women founded what is today one of the largest historically Black sororities and for that I am grateful. I became a Delta woman on April 24, 1990 at William Paterson College in New Jersey. So to all my sands and sorors of William Paterson's Theta Upsilon chapter, to Elle and Rageyone, and all my blogging sorors, to Ann Christopher, Ann Clay, Wendy Coakley-Thompson and all my fiction writing sorors, to Monique Bruner and Gwendolyn Osborne and all my writing and reviewing sorors, and to all the Deltas... Happy Founders' Day Sorors!

Romance. Suspense. Intrigue. Drama...

Confession number one: I used to be one of those genre purists. Way back in the day, I would cringe at the thought of a paranormal romance or romantic suspense. I certainly wouldn't deign to read one of those "mixed books." I read widely across genres. But I was like one of those kids who didn't like their food to touch on the plate. So I wouldn't even have picked up a book that proclaimed itself a romantic suspense novel. (And I certainly couldn't have imagined writing a paranormal erotic romance.) Thank goodness my quirky reading habits have changed! I recently went on romantic suspense reading spree and read three really great novels that I want to tell you all about. So, take a minute and go on a little journey with me.


The first novel on my trip was Deatri King-Bey's Beauty and the Beast. Some of you might remember that Deatri stopped by my blog in December for an author interview. Check it out in the archives if you’d like to find out a little more about her. Anyway, I enjoyed Beauty and the Beast immensely. At its heart the novel is a retelling of the wonderful fairy-tale. But it is also action-packed and has enough suspense and intrigue to keep you turning the pages. I loved both the hero and the heroine in this novel. But the hero really made me fall in love. He was a different kind of hero in that he suffered from bipolar disorder. However, Deatri does an excellent job showing how the relationship between Bruce Maxwell and Nefertiti Townes grows, how they learn to heal themselves and each other. And on top of that we get some bad guys and mystery thrown into the mix. The novel has several twists and turns and a few surprises. I would definitely recommend this book!


Then I read Patricia Sargeant's new novel You Belong to Me. This is Patricia's first novel and it was really good! It was the perfect mix of romance and suspense. I loved several things about this novel. First, it had one of my favorite romance plots at its core, the lovers reunited plot. I love it when folks give love a second chance. (I guess that's why two of favorite love songs are Shalimar's "Second Time Around" and Peaches and Herb's "Reunited.") Anyway, Nicole Collins is a science fiction writer who finds that her ex-husband Malcolm Bryant owns a film company and he wants to buy the rights to her series. Add a crazed fan to the mix that doesn't want to see the "family" that he/she loves destroyed by Hollywood and you get a novel jam packed with intrigue and drama. I loved trying to figure out who the crazed fan and possible murderer was. And I loved all the twists and turns Patricia put in along the way. The love story and the mystery are equally strong in this one. Pick this one up today!


Finally, I read Beverly Jenkin's Sexy/Dangerous. This book was great! So far I have really enjoyed all of her romantic suspense novels. She normally writes historical romances. And I don't usually read a lot of historical romances. So, when she started writing these contemporary romantic suspense novels I automatically picked them up. Sexy/Dangerous is my favorite of her romantic suspense novels so far because the heroine, Maxine "Max" Blake is a bad girl! And I'm talking bad like Shaft--I'll kick your butt kind of bad! She's an ex-marine, an ex-cop and secret agent. And she is in charge of protecting the hero, Dr. Adam Gary. He's discovered a product that can revolutionize the world and some people want it and are willing to kill him to get it. But they have to go through Max first, and that ain't easy! Did I already say that I loved this book? I really did love it. Funny how just that simple switch, having the woman protect the man, can make for such a thrilling and page-turning read! If you want to read a book with a super-bad sister kicking butt and taking names, this one is a must!

So what about you? Have you read any good books lately? Are you a genre purist or do you like to mix it up? Have you read any of these books and have a different take? Also, I should let you all know that next month's author on Gwyneth’s Blog, Katherine D. Jones is making a name for herself as the queen of African-American romantic suspense. She has written a series of books that perfectly marry romance and suspense. So be sure to check out her interview next month. Until next time…

Happy reading,

Gwyneth

Stupid Stuff in the News and My Two Cents

The Donald vs. Rosie with Barbara in the Middle

With everything going on in the world, you would think that the media wouldn't be taking so much time to focus on this so-called feud. But they are. It's on every channel. So now they have forced me to add my two cents. I didn't want to. They made me do it. I swear... But anyway, the funniest thing to me about this feud and the most newsworthy part of it is Barbara Walters and her serious blunder. (Because I don't care what she is saying, I have a gut feeling that she said exactly what the Donald said she said about Rosie) See, here's what I think happened... Barbara tried to clear up the beef by doing the old two-faced shuffle (some people might see it as being diplomatic or politically savvy. I think it's just classic school-yard two-facedness) I think Barbara called up her boy and was all commiserating with him in hopes that he would just calm down and forget about his public beef. But he pulled the ultimate no-no and repeated everything she said to him in the media. And if she wasn't such a proper white lady, you know she would have been like, 'you motherf*&%@#!' But she just went on air and denied, denied, denied. I just don't understand how the Donald can call his girl out like that. And I know Star is somewhere laughing the rest of her butt off at this mess. As for my two cents, the fact that the Donald let the little drunk/high girl keep her crown is not the only wrong thing he did. His playing Barbara Walters and telling what she probably told him in confidence is just wrong! But it is funny as all get out too. I bet she'll watch who she talks about and to whom now. I'm telling you Barbara you should not talk about people behind their backs unless you are prepared to back it up. That's the first thing us little girls in the hood learn. Doing so is the quickest way to get caught up in some he-said/she-said mess…Umm…

Oprah Winfrey and the School in South Africa

So it seems that some people are mad at Oprah because she didn't build a school in an inner city in the United States instead of building one in South Africa. I have to say first and foremost, Oprah can build a school wherever she wants to build a school with her money. Would it be nice if she built a school in the inner-city here? Yes. Would it have been nice if she hadn't had a Bill Cosby moment and started mouthing off in the media about how inner-city (read black) kids in the United States don't want to learn and only want expensive stuff? Hell yeah! (You wrong for that O. Keep it up and you're gonna have more than ignorant behind 50 after ya) But none of that changes the fact that it is her cash and she can spend it how she wants. The girl children in South Africa need that school. It will provide a safe haven and a way out for so many young women. In a country where some men are still raping virgins and girl babies in misguided hope of 'curing' themselves from HIV/AIDS, are we really begrudging these young women a school? I don't understand how people can fix their mouths to complain about this. Truth be told, the United States is a rich country that could do more to help the kids in the inner cities than Oprah could even with all her money. Like Pac said, "they got money for wars, but can't feed the poor." How we can see our way clear to spend billions every day to bomb and kill when little Tyrone, Johnny, Dick, Jane, and Shaqueeta can't read is beyond my comprehension. But I'll tell you what… I won't be calling Oprah out on this one, not when she's trying to do good work in the world.

But hey, I could be wrong. What do you all think about these two divas of talk and interview and the recent media attention they've been getting? Until next time...

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

January Interview with A. C. Arthur

Happy New Year, everyone! We're starting off 2007 with a wonderful and talented author, A. C. Arthur. She writes for Kimani Press, Genesis Press and Parker Publishing, LLC. She has some interesting things to say about writing so check it out!

GB: Hello, A.C. Welcome to my blog! Thanks so much for stopping by and chatting with me. I can look at your forthcoming publication schedule and see that you're a very busy woman. I appreciate you taking the time to stop by. So, that will be my first question, how do you manage your time and maintain productivity. Being a mother, a wife, a party planner, a writer… What does your time management plan look like and can we clone it?

ACA: Thanks for the invite, Gwyneth. You can clone my time management plan, but it rarely works! LOL Everyday my goal is to get up as early as possible and write, then get the hubby and kids out the door as swiftly as possible. Usually, I will write all morning except when I'm nearing an event. Now just because I write in the morning doesn't necessarily mean I'm producing much, but practice makes perfect.

GB: Your first novel, Object of His Desire, came out in September of 2003 and this month marks the release of your sixth novel, Corporate Seduction. Congrats! You're certainly doing your thing! So, tell us, what has it been like? What has your journey to becoming a multi-published author been like?

ACA: Thanks. The journey has been educational if nothing else. When you first write a book and try to sell it you have no idea what's really in store for you. Learning how to deal with deadlines and editors and the pressure of producing another book has been a task for me but I wouldn't trade the experience.

GB: You write such wonderful, passionate romances. Have you always wanted to be a romance novelist? Have you always read them? When did you first enter the world of romance?

ACA: Thanks, Gwyneth. If you keep complimenting me I'm never going to stop smiling. When I was in middle school my mother let me read one of her Danielle Steele novels, I believe it was titled Star. I was instantly hooked. Every book my mother had I read and re-read until I would daydream stories of my own. But I didn't actually write a story until my senior year in high school. I wrote essays and reports and entered the school competitions but I hadn't actually written a full-length story and I didn't really foresee writing as my future career. I did finally begin to write my own stories but I put them all in the closet and never let people read them. In 2000, when one of my daughter's became sick and I had to quit my job to stay home with her I began researching African American romances and possible publishers.

GB: Your third novel, Unconditional, deals with the topic of breast cancer. That's a very important and timely topic. What made you decide to include this in your romance? Do you see yourself dealing with such important topics in the future in other novels?

ACA: I wrote Unconditional in 1997. Breast cancer wasn't as openly discussed then but I happened to be on the Internet and saw an article about a woman who had just gone into remission. I thought her story was so touching and triumphant. I wanted a heroine to experience the same thing. I like to talk about important topics in a way that people will be more open to them. I don't want to preach or lecture, just create an awareness. So far, in addition to breast cancer, I've touched on sexual harassment in the workplace and with an upcoming novel the effects of low self-esteem and the world's expectations of women.

GB: Your first novel, Object of His Desire, is billed as an interracial romance. The hero is Italian and African-American. Do you think you will write other interracial/multicultural romances in the future?

ACA: Definitely, I want a fine, passionate Latino man that will sweep the readers and the heroine off their feet!

GB: You write for three publishers, Parker Publishing, Genesis Press and Kimani Press. Do you find that your style of writing changes depending on which press you are writing for? For example, can a reader expect to get the same kind of story when she picks up one of your Genesis Press books as when she picks up your Kimani Press books? I personally think that you have a strong voice and that is the same no matter what. But you do flip your style a little differently… at least in the Genesis and Kimani books I've read. (I haven't read a Parker book from you yet…) But that's just my opinion… what do you think?

ACA: I think you're right. Each publisher has different guidelines for their stories and I try to be obedient and adhere to them…you see I said try. LOL I write series romance for Kimani, which is a shorter story focused primarily on the developing relationship between the hero and heroine. Whereas, for Genesis I have a little more room to explore the suspense plots I love so much. With Parker I’ve been allowed to build bigger characters with intense plots, oh and with hotter sex! In the end I believe that a reader can still expect lively characters with real issues from any of my books.

GB: You will be writing steamier erotic romances for Parker Publishing. Those of us who have read your previous novels know that you will have no problem bringing the heat! You already write hot and steamy very well. But, just for those who don't know, how did you find making that move from romance to erotic romance?

ACA: You know I love to keep it hot! It really wasn't a big move for me since I always wrote hot love scenes, the editors just toned it down. LOL I like for sex scenes to be realistic and realistically sex should make you hot, if not you might want to get in a little more practice. But I did notice that when I first told someone that I was going to write an erotic romance they instantly thought of straight erotica. There's a difference and I had to do a lot of reading to be able to see it for myself.

GB: Your latest release, Corporate Seduction, is a connecting story to your much acclaimed, Office Policy. I see you like bringing the sex and drama right on up in the workplace! But, I also know that you have a professional background as a paralegal. Did that history inform or influence the writing of these two novels?

ACA: Working in numerous law firms has given me so many story ideas I could spend the rest of my life writing about them. Lawyers, their staff and their clients have more drama going on then on the daytime soap operas. Office Policy was influenced by two firms in particular that I worked for and Corporate Seduction came from a few staff members that I've worked with along with one of my favorite chick flicks, You've Got Mail.

GB: I love You've Got Mail. It's one of my favorites too. Well, actually, I love Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks together in just about anything... But anyway... Your novels to date seem to be a delightful mix of romantic suspense and steamy emotion. Is the suspense element one that you enjoy writing? Can you talk a little about why this appeals to you so much? And can you let us know if we can expect more suspense from you in the future?

ACA: I think that suspense is one of those subplots that caters to heavy emotion which ultimately delivers passion in romances. I do enjoy giving readers some sort of mystery to figure out. I like the investigation, the uncovering of facts and all the many suspects. I think it's my nosey nature.

GB: I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed your December Kimani Romance release, Love Me Like No Other. I know that this book is a part of a series--The Triple Threat. Details. Details. Let those of us who will be waiting anxiously know when to expect the next installment. And also, if you can give us any advance information, that would be much appreciated. (Smile)

ACA: A Cinderella Affair will be released in September 2007. This is Adam Donovan's, the youngest Donovan brother, story. Adam is the compassionate brother, the one with sex appeal to spare but a huge loving heart that defies his playboy persona. I wanted Adam to have a woman that played into his best quality and so Camille Davis was born. Camille is a fashion designer so she works among tall, thin, pretty woman all the time. However, Camille is neither tall nor thin and has a step-mother that constantly reminds of this fact. I am finishing up Trent Donovan's story now and am hoping for an early 2008 release date since it has a Valentine's Day theme, but we shall see. The Triple Threat Donovans were only meant to be a three-part series but I’m already getting requests for some of the other family members' stories.

GB: That's right! Go find them some more fi-ne cousins or something. LOL Speaking of upcoming releases, looking at your website, I see you have lots of goodies forthcoming. Can you share a bit about some of the things you have in store?

ACA: I am very excited about my 2007 schedule. My first Parker Publishing release, Within The Shadows, is one of my very favorites. It has everything, suspense, passion, and oodles of romance. I am also trying the waters with my first paranormal from Genesis, Heart of the Phoenix, which boasts a succulent hero who is part Greek God and part phoenix. And of course, my first erotic romances begin with a story in Parker's Love For All Seasons anthology that also features Angie Daniels, Maureen Smith and Barbara Keaton. My story is titled A Snowflake Seduction and for lack of anything better to say I'll just leave you with a mental thought…an erotic snowball fight.

GB: Do you have any suggestions for good books to read? I already know you have the good stuff. So, I'd like to know what you read? Who are some of your favorite authors? And what are you reading right now?

ACA: I am actually reading two books right now, Brenda Jackson's Beyond Temptation and Sins and Secrets by Sharon Page. I also have my copy of Gwyneth Bolton's Divine Destiny with its gorgeous cover and great reviews which is next on my to-read list. I enjoy reading just about anything romantic, especially by Nora Roberts or a new favorite Dara Girard. I've ventured into mainstream and really liked V. Anthony Rivers' My Life Is All I Have and Zane's Afterburn. I like Kendra Norman Bellamy's books as well.

GB: I've read Brenda Jackson's Beyond Temptation. It was really good! It is my favorite in the Forged in Steele Series so far. Although I'm sure I'll be saying the same with the next release. (Smile) And I heard that new Gwyneth Bolton release was pretty good too. You’ll have to let me know what you think about that one. ;-) Anyway… do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

ACA: Don't give up. Keep it moving. That's my mantra. If one story doesn't work, write another one. If one publisher doesn't buy, solicit another one. If you can't find an agent, sell it yourself. Just don't give up. Study the craft and the industry because knowledge is definitely power.

GB: How can readers best contact you?

ACA: Via email, acarthur22@yahoo.com . I check email daily and I answer all my emails because they make me feel important. LOL

GB: Thanks so much for stopping by AC. It's been a pleasure!

ACA: Thank you, Gwyneth. I've read a few of your interviews and you definitely have knack for this.

GB: Awwww... Thanks, AC!