May Interview with Michelle Buckley

GB: Hello, Michelle! Welcome to my blog! Thanks so much for stopping by and chatting with me. I appreciate you taking the time to stop by. You manage writing and running your own business. How do you do it all? What does your time management plan look like?

MB: How I do it all is a question I often ask myself. I usually write my fiction novels in the evenings and on weekends – that writing time is my way of winding down, unless my characters get revved up and then I get all wired! I live for those moments (to be honest). Then during the day I focus on doing the day-to-day work that’s gonna keep the lights on!

GB: Your first novel, BULLETPROOF SOUL came out in 2005 and the second novel, TRIPPIN’ came out in 2006. So, tell us, what has it been like? What has your journey to becoming a multi-published author been like?


MB: It took me about a year to finish my first book, BULLETPROOF SOUL. I hooked up with an agent who sent it to Carl Weber at Urban Books. I was informed around Christmas that he liked it (that was the best Christmas present ever!) and then 1-1/2 years later, I was published. The most fun times for me during my journey are meeting with the public. I really like interacting with readers who are passionate (sometimes too passionate) about my work. LOL. Along the way, every day I learn something new about the publishing business or the craft of writing. There are so many hats an author has to wear besides just being a writer. I’m my own publicist, marketer, sales person, graphic designer, accountant . . . the list goes on! LOL. I thought I went into the publishing biz with my eyes open and that I knew what to expect. But you can only read so much and have people tell you so much . . . then when you live it on your own it’s like Whoa . . . there is so much to do and still so much to learn. The journey has been wonderful though. Having mentors like Carl Weber, Donna Hill, Monica Jackson and Roy Glenn, veterans in the biz, has truly helped.

GB: I love the titles of your first two novels and the fact that they work on so many levels to give insight to what the novels are about. BULLETPROOF SOUL references the strength that Lacy needed to deal with all that life had thrown/was still throwing at her. And it also referenced the theme of gun violence and how it impacts the lives of those left to heal afterwards. And TRIPPIN’ references the actual traveling the characters do as well as the fact that you have some crazy folk in the novel who are really trippin’. LOL. So, you know I have to ask what goes into your thought process as you come up with titles for your novels? Do you need to have the perfect title in mind first before writing? How important is the title of the novel for you?

MB: I think titles are very important. The right title combined with good cover art can really inspire a reader to pick you up off the shelf, especially if they’ve never heard of you. I like to have my titles before I start the books and for my second book, TRIPPIN’ the title came to me pretty immediately. The same can’t be said about BULLETPROOF SOUL. That book started off with a different title: A Little Dab Won’t Do. My publisher, Carl Weber didn’t like it and he told me to go back and just reflect on what the book was truly about. Once I did that . . . once I got still and quiet and became non-obsessed about the title . . . then and only then did it come to me. I’m so glad Carl had the foresight that he did, because I can’t imagine my first novel with any other title!

GB: I really enjoyed BULLETPROOF SOUL. Girl, you had me talking back to the book and everything. I was reading it on my Jet Blue flight to NYC. And I was all, ‘Nooooo, Lacy! Don’t do it! Don’t do that, guuuurl!’ and ‘Well if you do it don’t tell him! Awwwww! Dang! I told you not to do it!’ It was a really interactive reading experience to say the least. And I’m sure the other passengers on the plane wondered if I was crazy. But Lacy was something else. How did you come up with her? What was your inspiration?


MB: Okay, Gwyn, give Lacy a break. I know you can remember back to when you were that young! LOL. To be honest, every black woman I know was my inspiration for her! I wrote BULLETPROOF SOUL as a way of celebrating the resiliency of black women. Somehow no matter what life throws at us we manage to take a licking and keep on ticking – we’re indestructible, bulletproof – and I wanted to write a character that reflected that! Through Lacy, I also wanted to offer a little inspiration. I wanted people, particularly young black women, to finish the book feeling hopeful and empowered. Lacy was young and a tad bit confused . . . she needed guidance. So, another reason for creating her and writing this book was so that I could underscore the importance of the relationship between older and younger generations. There’s something to be learned from one another. Grandmothers are the backbone of our community and the collective black family and the grandmother in this book is the backbone of the book and she’s part of Lacy’s backbone as well.

GB: The issue of what we need to do to better help and impact the lives of black youth was prominent in BULLETPROOF SOUL. I loved that! You offered a variety of sides to the story. But at the end of the day it’s clear that we all need to be doing something. It’s a very important and timely topic. What made you decide to include it in your novel? Do you see yourself dealing with such important topics in the future in other novels?

MB: I once worked for a youth center and I think the work those organizations do is very impactful. I’m dedicated to writing good books about life journeys featuring realistic characters who are dealing with important, real-life issues. My hope is that my characters and their story lines are remembered long after my books are closed and put away. When people read my books, I want them to be able to relate to the characters and struggles I write about and I’d like them to take away something that may help them through their own struggles. I’m going to always write about timely real topics and flawed human beings who experience growth while attempting to navigate and triumph over life’s tricky lessons.

GB: You know I have to get you to talk about TRIPPIN’. A serial killer, girl, hmm… Umm… Do you have something you’d like to share with us? LOL. I haven’t read this one yet. But the description sounds like it will be another one to love. Can you tell us a little bit about the book and what made you want to write about a serial killer?


MB: Writing TRIPPIN’ was so much fun. I wondered if I could write from a serial killer’s perspective but from the feedback and reviews I’ve received I guess I’ve done my job! I don’t know what it is, but I’ve had killers in both of my books. Must be some aggression I need to get out. LOL. I got the idea for my book based on the fact that in one month as I was trying to come up with a book idea, I met two people that belonged to travel clubs and they were on opposite ends of the age spectrum. Also, I’ve been on group-sponsored trips and I’ve seen for myself when people go on vacation and throw caution to the wind. They act out in ways they normally wouldn’t, not expecting their dirt to come back home to haunt them. That’s what happens to the characters in my book and the result is an explosive literary ride from which the characters never recover.

GB: I’ve read that you also write screenplays? Can you talk a little about moving between these two forms of writing? Does your screenwriting experience influence your fiction writing and vice versa?

MB: I love writing screenplays. The writing styles are so very different. You have to be able to get to the heart of a scene quickly with a script, whereas with fiction writing sometimes you can meander a little bit. Also, screenwriting influences my novel writing because with screenplays the dialogue has to sound realistic and it has to be strong. Also, when there are multiple characters you have to make sure every character’s “voice” is distinct. All of this only helps strengthen my fiction novel writing.

GB: What are you working on now? Can you share a bit about some of the things you have coming up in the future?

MB: Right now I’m working on book number three which will be released in fall 2008. The small paperback version of TRIPPIN’ will be released in summer 2008. Also, I’m revising a Christmas-themed screenplay based on an interested producer’s notes. And I wrote an essay about a friend that died of cancer that was included in the 2000 SOULS OF MY SISTERS anthology – a collection of real stories written by black women for black women. The book touches on ageism, racism, sexism, body image, money management, love and a variety of other issues. It’s a great self-help type book that will be re-released soon and if folks missed out on it the first time, I suggest they check out the updated, revised version.

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?

MB: I helped out with publicity late last month at the Romantic Times conference in Houston and I think as a result of that, I’m going through an erotic reading phase right now. (Must have been something in the air at the conference.) Right now and in the near future, I’ll be reading Black Door by Velvet and Midnight Confessions by Bonnie Edwards. I also have on my list to read Ishmael Beah’s touching memoir, A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier. Some of my FAVORITE AUTHORS include Bebe Moore Campbell, Eric Jerome Dickey, Carl Weber, Donna Hill, Terry McMillan, and Bernice McFadden. Additionally, I like period piece writing and I love Edith Wharton who creates strong, moral, duty-bound female characters. House of Mirth and The Age of Innocence are two of my favorites. Finally, I like reading business biographies and memoirs, because I believe nothing is more fascinating than the drama that happens in real life. Two of my all–time favorite memoirs are Willow Weep for Me, a heart-wrenching memoir about Meri Nana-Ama Danquah’s battle with depression (this was the first book that I read that actually made me cry). Plus, I liked Pulitzer Prize winning NY Times journalist Rick Bragg’s beautiful tribute to his mother, All Over But the Shouting (another tear jerker).

GB: Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

MB: First off, I suggest they write, write, write, write! Talking about writing and wanting to write is not going to get you published. I suggest they stay positive and watch who they share their desire to write with, because not everyone will be happy for them. To have a lofty dream of being published, it helps to have a healthy belief that all things are possible, so the last thing you need is someone telling you that you can’t do it. I firmly believe any aspiring writer should do as much reading about the craft as they can. Plus, they should really learn the business side of things and develop all the contacts they can. Finally, I think in order to be a successful writer, you have to read – all types of genres. That way you learn in a practical way what does and doesn’t work when it comes to creating a good story.

GB: How can readers best contact you?

MB: Readers can reach me by emailing me at prgalkc@hotmail.com. They can also check out my blog: www.michellebuckleyblog.blogspot.com and they can visit my website www.michellebuckley.com. Additionally, they can visit me at Myspace at www.myspace.com/michelle_buckley and they can even check out my online store and purchase great Bulletproof Soul and Trippin’ merchandise at www.cafepress.com/michellebuckley. (Okay, I’m done . . . commercial over! J)

GB: Thanks so much for stopping by, Michelle. It’s been a pleasure!

MB: Gwen, you asked some great questions. Thanks for the interview and continued success to you with your writing! See ya on bookstore shelves.

I don't know why...

But the Two A-holes crack me up... And, at the end of the semester with a stack of papers to grade, I need to laugh.








You look like a rabbit... :-)

Gwyneth

On the road again...

Hi all,

I'm heading off to Madison, Wisconsin. My alter ego is giving a lecture. It should be interesting. I had to give an interview for pre-publicity and every thing. And even though he mis-quotes me when I talk about hip-hop being the culture that rap music come out of, it's still a pretty cool interview. He even asked me about my romance writing and if I I felt conflicted about writing romance as a feminist. Check out the interview and what I said in response to that here. So any way, of course I still need to pack and print out my paper and check my power point.... If any of you are in the area, check it out the lecture. Here's the information:

Sankofa: Hip-Hop Culture, Literacy, and Youth Empowerment Project
English PhD student Eric Pritchard uses a study of hip-hop culture to help young people of color develop skills of critical and creative writing so as to become more expressive about cultural and ethnic complexity in Madison.

Sankofa: Hip Hop, Gender and Youth Empowerment Project Symposium

Saturday, April 28, 2007
11:30 AM - 3:30 PM
6191 HC White Hall, UW-Madison
600 N. Park Street

Keynote: Gwendolyn Pough, Professor of Women's Studies and Writing at Syracuse University

Women, Rap and Hip Hop Feminism
2:00 PM

See you when I get back!

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Attention! Attention?

I'm Blogging in Black today. Here's a snippet of what I said....

Attention! Attention?

My alter ego had the opportunity on Tuesday to be on MSNBC. With all the hoopla surrounding the Don Imus situation and Russell Simmons’s recent request that the n-word, b-word and h-words all be bleeped out consistently by the music industry, it seems that the media wants to talk to the Women’s Studies professor who wrote a book on women, hip-hop, feminism and the public sphere. I’ll be doing a radio interview later on today. And although it was set up far in advance of all the hoopla, I’ll be giving a lecture at a Wisconsin university later this week. For the most part, I’m used to giving lectures. I’m also pretty used to giving interviews to newspapers, magazines and even radio shows. The television spot however, had me nervous the entire morning and it made me think about how much I really hate attention.

I’m pretty certain that I’m not the only writer who would much rather let her words speak for her and could do without being in front of the camera. Even though people give me the serious side-eye when I say I’m shy, I am. I’m not painfully shy by any means. I can talk in front of people. And I can even be funny and witty and… well you get the idea… But if given a choice to either be the center of attention or play the background and coast the sidelines, I would more than likely choose the sidelines. I just don’t like attention...

You can read the rest over at Blogging in Black. Please stop by and check it out. Also check out all the other wonderful posts. Lots of excellent writers are offering wonderful pearls of wisdom over there.

Blogging in Black

See ya over there...

Gwyneth

Black Butterfly Review for Sweet Sensation!

The Black Butterfly Review for SWEET SENSATION is in. They give it 5 Stars! Here's some of what they said:

"Ms. Bolton's debut novel I'M GONNA MAKE YOU LOVE ME is the launch pad for her most incredible love story in SWEET SENSATION...

SWEET SENSATION is a mesmerizing story that seems to develop and take on a life of its own right before your eyes...

I could go all day telling you about this story. It is highly recommended for oodles of reasons. It is a sensational love story, the sex is off the hook HOT and the layout of the story is just awesome. On a side note, I must state that I did not necessary agree with Sweet Dee's decision to keep her daughter from her father, but I understand that fear will have you do many things. In the context of this story, it served as a wonderful foundation to bringing this family and this love story full circle allowing something that we all need at one time or another: Closure. " ~ Eleanor Shields for Black Butterfly Review

"Where Have All the Deejays Gone?"

Hi All,

Thanks for all the love and feedback on my poetry as I celebrated National Poetry month by sharing a little. I really appreciate it! You would think a writer would be used to sharing and putting herself out there. But I guess I'll never really get used to it. Anyway, my alter-ego is off to give a lecture in NYC and I'll be away for a minute. But I thought I'd share one last poem before I headed off to the airport. This is one that Deidre, the heroine from SWEET SENSATION actually performs in the novel. It's titled, "Where Have All the Deejays Gone?" And it's a sort of funny scene in the book because the hero, Flex, used to be a deejay and now he's a big time producer and label owner. Anyway, he's in the audience when she performs the poem and she has no idea that he's there... I guess you'd have to read the book to realize why this is funny... So, before I go into detail and give away spoilers, I'll just leave you with this poem. :-)

"Where Have All the Deejays Gone?"
with a special shout out to those not mentioned by name
(RIP Jam Master Jay)



Not to be on some ole nostalgic tip
but where have all the deejays gone?
Back in the day you couldn't be a fly emcee unless your deejay was a nice as you
Nowadays you can't be a platinum selling artist
without a track from a super producer
And I'm not making a value statement
it is what it is
all I wanna know is where have all the deejays gone?
because back in the day
the right deejay could break an emcee off
something proper
like slowing down the beat
or bringing in a dope scratch
just when the emcee is about to
break it down
switching records like only a
true mix master
a real beat blaster
could
where have all the deejays gone?
I'm not longing for some yesterday long forgotten
though sometimes I do get a little misty eyed
for the days when you knew what deejay went with what crew
you know like
Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five
Run DMC and Jam Master Jay
Sweet Tee and Jazzy Joyce
Gangstar and Premier
Pete Rock and CL Smooth
Salt-N-Pepa and Spinderella
Marley Marl and Dimples Dee
and then Roxanne Shante
and then MC Shan
Tribe Called Quest and Ali Shaheed Muhammad
DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince
Scott La Rock and KRS-One
and I won't even get started on the commercialization of the mix tape
because I know by now you have got to be feeling me
I'm just asking
where have all the deejays gone?
because you know wherever they are
there has got to be a fly ass party going on

Thanks for reading my poetry y'all.

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

"Side Step"

Side Step

I remember being eleven and doing steps in front
of the four-story tenement we called home
twist
sophisticated lady—you know that’s me
spelling Mississippi
and saying ooo-chie-wally-wally
long before nas and the bravehearts made it a hook
I remember older black women looking at us
and shaking their heads as we battled the girls around the corner
to see who could pop that coochie and twist like this
I remember pumping with all my might
and not really knowing what I was pumping
but most of all
I remember what it felt like to be with my girls
as we each took our turn in the circle
giving off more attitude than anyone under fifteen had a right to
and knowing that we were the baddest girls out there
because we deemed it so
we said things little girls shouldn’t even know
but when I remember how we were when outside
playing
and what it was like to be one with them
and how later we’d jump double-dutch
or skate around the block
I think of how innocent we all were even as we chanted
“my man made me do it, he really, really, really . . . got on down”
slapping our hands and stomping our feet in unison
we must have felt invincible
and all of our steps occurred in the dawn
before we learned that black women’s sexuality
should be concealed
lest it be used against her in the court of public opinion
itself steeped in legacies and histories of lies
when I remember what it felt like to be so free
from cloaked and hidden sexualities
it amazes me that girlhood games gave it to me
and I hold on to it now as I smile at kim, foxy, trina, and khai
maybe they took the side step and remembered what we all forgot
I wonder if I can reclaim some of that innocent
yet brazen and brave little black girl back

"Not Another Stereotype"

I don't want it all
but you just can't take some
you have to take the good and the bad
So, you can't be a strong black woman without
being an emasculating, castrating, domineering,
matriarch, man-hating bitch
No matter how you choose, you lose
you can't claim the rhythm or the funk or the
basketball dunk
without being the coon, fool, better off in
slavery, yes sir, no mam, i'se don't know sir, low
end of the bell curve n-----
one stereotype feeds another
and there's no such thing as a positive without
a negative to balance it out
So, what is this all about?
I was simply saying...
I don't want it all...

"Word"

Since April is National Poetry Month and the heroine of my latest novel, SWEET SENSATION, is a poet, I thought I'd share some of Deidre "Sweet Dee" James's poetry with you for the rest of this month. ;-) If you hate it, that's okay. She's not real. (I might go somewhere and cry though... But don't worry about that...) The first poem, I'd like to share is titled "Word." And she actually performs it in the novel.

“Word”

When I first heard
brothers on the block saying word
I got excited
I sensed we would be getting our power back again
There is power in the word
the strength of NOMMO
was going to take us home

But when I tell you of this new coming strength
all you can say is
Word!

I try to get you excited
I tell you about the Griots
the storytellers of the motherland
telling history in ceremonial detail
I told you about the power of slaves and ex-colored men
using the word to tell their narratives
to illustrate incidents in their lives
to punch holes in that peculiar institution

And all you can say is word?

In the 70s the word was spoken and Black was beautiful again
We’d lost the knowledge
of our beauty for so long
And all it needed was to be spoken into existence
We spoke it and there was power
Black Power

I tell you this and you, awed by history I suppose, simply say, word. . .

I mean the word is supposed to be more powerful than that
The word is supposed to take us back
The word and the drum they are with us again
We have the word in rap
and the drum in the boom-bap
But no one seems to be using them in the way they were meant
to be used
They don’t uplift, inspire, or even engage

And I complain to you and all you can mutter is word.
WORD

I know that you know that word is bond
Word is life
In the beginning was the word
God spoke it and created day and night
“In the Beginning was the word
the word was with God
and the word was God
He was with God in the beginning”
There is power in the word

And don’t look at me or even fix your mouth to say word, but
Be word enact word
Be word enact word
Be word enact. . .

Easter Weekend

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone! If you're celebrating Easter, don't load up on too much of that good food on Easter Sunday. And don't steal all the good chocolate from the kiddies' Easter baskets. Even if you aren't celebrating Easter, I want everyone to have a great weekend. I'll catch you on Monday!

much love and peace

Gwyneth

RAWSISTAZ Give SWEET SENSATION 4.5 Stars!

Hi all,

The RAWSISTAZ review is in for SWEET SENSATION. They gave it 4.5 Stars! So that means I have my second RAWSISTAZ Favorite. I'm so geeked. Here's a blurb from the review:

"I highly commend Gwyneth Bolton for creating a wonderful tale that shatters the stereotypes surrounding the hip hop generation.  Despite the fact that SWEET SENSATION follows the general rules for romance, it is a unique story that offers a few surprises.  The hero and heroine are multi-dimensional, quirky, and imaginative and the supporting characters add depth and texture to the story.  I enjoyed that there were numerous positive male characters, the social commentary, and the fact that the story highlighted the human side of hip hop artists.  SWEET SENSATION is likely to appeal to a broad audience of readers.  Fans of traditional romance will enjoy it." ~ Reviewed by Stacey Seay of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

But you can read the entire review here:

RAWSISTAZ Review of SWEET SENSATION

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

April Interview with Shelia Goss

GB: Hi Shelia! Thanks so much for visiting my blog and doing an interview. What drew you to the romance genre? Were you a reader of romance novels before you started to write them?

SG: I've been reading romance novels since high school. My aunt was an avid reader of the Harlequin romances and she was the person who introduced me to my first romance novels written by AA authors. Between the both of us, we have a nice romance book collection.

GB: Hmmm... I'd like to see that collection... So, I noticed that you have some experience with self-publishing. What was that like? What are the significant differences between taking the self-publishing route and going with a publisher? Would you consider self-publishing again in the future?

SG: I learned a lot about publishing during the time I was self-published. Publishing is definitely a business no matter if you're self-published or with a major. There are several differences between the two. As a self-publisher, you're responsible for everything and I do mean everything. As an author with a publisher, you primarily concentrate on writing and marketing your book and your publisher takes care of the rest. To answer your last question, I really can't answer it; but for right now, being with a publisher works for me.

GB: You are an Essence Magazine and Black Expressions Book Club Bestselling author. Congratulations on those amazing achievements. You know that me and just about everyone else who reads this blog want to know how you did it. Any secrets of bestselling success you want to share?

SG: I wish there was a magic formula, but there isn't. I look at those achievements as blessings from God. I can't help but give God the praise, because I've had a limited marketing budget. Fortunately for me, the word about my books spread because of the readers.

GB: There is nothing like good old word of mouth! If you can start a buzz about your work you are on your way. Kudos to you for writing a book that folks couldn't stop talking about! Anyway, I noticed that you have a journalism background and have interviewed some pretty high-profile folk in the entertainment industry. Besides hoping that you won't laugh too hard at my little amateur interview techniques… I'd like to hear more about how you feel your training as a journalist enhanced your fiction writing?

SG: A little about my history. Although I originally wanted to be a journalist, I went to college and got my engineering degree. I worked in corporate America for the majority of my adult life. Up until my dad's death, writing was a past-time. After he died, I decided that life was too short not to do what I wanted to do, so I decided to pursue it as a career. Between the workshops and courses, I stepped out on faith and pursued a career in writing. To me, non-fiction and fiction writing, although different are the same. With each, you are required to write a story. The only difference is one is true and the other is a figment of your imagination.

GB: See... if I wasn't an amateur interviewer, I would have known that you had a background in Engineering and not Journalism. LOL. So... anyway... I really enjoyed MY INVISIBLE HUSBAND. I think the concept was original. And I really have to give you kudos for the way you worked it, girl. One thing I noticed is that, while it was definitely a romance novel, you played with the plot and upped the drama in a way that made it stand out from the typical romance novel. Without giving too much away, can you talk a little bit about why you wrote the novel the way you did?



SG: I'm an avid reader so I wrote the type of book that I like to read. I wanted to place a comical spin on a somewhat annoying question asked to singles, "So when are you getting married?" Once I came up with the theme for the novel, I knew the number one question would be, how does the main character (Nicolette Montana) pull off a fake marriage? That's when the fun began. The characters made it easy to come up with the twists and turns because each had their own personality and had something to contribute to the story.

GB: I haven't had a chance to read your latest release, ROSES ARE THORNS, VIOLETS ARE TRUE. But it's definitely on my to-be-read pile. Can you tell us a little bit about it? Just enough to tease us and make those of us who haven't purchased it yet run out and buy it.



SG: Its sibling rivalry at its best. Rose Purdue is a movie star and feels the world is at her anchor. Her fans adore her, but her twin sister Violet knows that thorns are beneath all the glamour. Rose puts on her best performance as she attempts to redeem her reputation with the public after Violet gives a tell-all interview to the media. There's plenty of drama between the pages.

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.

SG: My next book is about an event planner, Paige C. Webb, who is an expert at organizing her clients events, but when it comes to the affairs of the heart--that's another story. At this point I don't know what the title will be, but it should either be out in the fall of this year or the beginning of next year. Paige also has an issue with commitment. I wanted to show that men aren't the only ones afraid of committing. The story is a romance and has comical scenes. I can't wait for it to be released. As soon as I get a confirmation on the title, I'll be sending out more information about it.

Besides writing romance, I'm also writing in another genre and have a few things in the works; however right now I'm not able to go into details. I've contributed to a few anthologies, so just waiting to hear back about those. If any of your readers are looking for other contributors, feel free to contact me (smile).

GB: What are you reading right now?

SG: I just finished reading THE PERFECT SHOE by Kimberly Matthews and PERFECT FOR YOU by Sylvia Lett. Up next is POSTCARDS FROM LAST SUMMER by Roz Bailey and IRRESISTIBLE YOU by Francis Ray.

GB: Do you have any advice for aspiring writers about the publishing business?

SG: Develop a thick skin. Let rejection fuel your desire to succeed and last but not least, write. Write when you feel like it; write when you don't.

GB: How can readers best contact you?

SG: Readers can contact me via my website www.sheliagoss.com or www.myspace.com/sheliagoss.

Thanks Gwyneth. I appreciate you interviewing me for your blog.

Anytime, Shelia! Thanks for stopping by!

Well, that's all folks! Be sure to check out the authors coming in the following months:

May – Michelle Buckley

June – Delilah Dawson

July - Patricia Sargeant

August – Acvernon Menchan

2006 Romance in Color Reviewer's Choice Nominees Announced

THE BEST OF 2006

The Romance in Color reviewers are pleased to announce the nominees for its annual Reviewers' Choice Awards.  The winners will be announced on 15th April 2007.  At that time the winner of the BOOK OF THE YEAR and BEST COVER ART will be announced.

The staff of RIC congratulate you on your nomination.

KIMANI ROMANCE OF THE YEAR
AN INNOCENT MAN - Deirdre Savoy (Aug)
NIGHT HEAT - Brenda Jackson (Sep)
SHE'S MY BABY - Adrianne Byrd (Sep)
FINALLY, YOU AND ME – Lisa Harrison Jackson (Oct)

  ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

BEST KIMANI ARABESQUE OF THE YEAR
A TIME TO KEEP - Rochelle Alers (June)
LONG DISTANCE LOVER - Donna Hill (June)
ALWAYS A CHANCE – Angela Weaver (Nov)

 ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

DAFINA ROMANCE OF THE YEAR
GOODBYE HEARTACHE - Doris Johnson (Feb)
DEPTHS OF DESIRE - Sophia Shaw (May)
TROUBLE - Ann Christopher (July)
BITTER SWEET – Candice Poarch (July)

  ~   ~   ~   ~   ~ 

GENESIS PRESS BOOK OF THE YEAR
THROUGH THE FIRE - Seressia Glass (March)
ROCK STAR - Roslyn Holcomb (Sep)
NO ORDINARY LOVE - Angela Weaver (July)
CAUGHT UP - Deatri King-Bey (Feb)

 ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

INSPIRATIONAL FICTION/ROMANCE OF THE YEAR
A SIN AND A SHAME - Victoria Christopher Murray – Simon & Schuster/Touchstone (May)
SHADES OF GRAY - Jacqueline Thomas – Harlequin/Steeple Hill (Jan)

  ~   ~   ~   ~   ~ 

ANTHOLOGY OF THE YEAR
VEGAS BITES – L.A. Banks, Natalie Dunbar & J.M. Jeffries, & Seressia Glass – Parker Publishing (Nov)
YOU NEVER KNOW – Niobia Bryant, Melanie Shuster & Kimberley White – Harlequin Kimani/Arabesque (Jan)
BACK IN YOUR ARMS - Sandra Kitt, Deirdre Savoy & Celeste O. Norfleet – Harlequin Kimani/Arabesque (Jan)
CHOCOLATE KISSES – Renee Luke, Francis Ray & Marianne Reid (Jan)

 ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

MAINSTREAM FICTION OF THE YEAR
THE DAMNED - L. A. Banks – St. Martin’s Press (Jan)
DIARY OF A MISTRESS – Meisha – Simon & Schuster/Touchstone (Aug)
A DEAD MAN SPEAKS - Lisa Jones Johnson - Genesis/Vibe (July)

~   ~   ~   ~   ~

WOMAN'S FICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR
BRASS ANKLE BLUES – Rachel Harper – Simon & Schuster/Touchstone (Feb)
BEST-KEPT SECRETS - Rochelle Alers – Harlequin Kimani/Sepia (Jan)
WHEN YOU DANCE WITH THE DEVIL – Gwynne Forster – Kensington Dafina/Fiction (Aug)

  ~   ~   ~   ~   ~ 

NOVELLA OF THE YEAR
“Heat” in VEGAS BITES – L.A. Banks – Parker Publishing (Nov)
“Double Down” in VEGAS BITES – Seressia Glass – Parker Publishing (Nov)

 ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

NEW AUTHOR OF THE YEAR
Ann Christopher
Roslyn Halcomb
Deatri King-Bey
Gwyneth Bolton

  ~   ~   ~   ~   ~

AUTHOR OF THE YEAR
Brenda Jackson
Rochelle Alers
Ann Christopher
Seressia Glass
L.A. Banks


 

Kimber An does SWEET SENSATION

Kimber An has a new blog that she is devoting to reviewing romance novels and industry issues. The blog is called Enduring Romance. And she has posted her review of SWEET SENSATION there. Stop by and check it out and be sure to support this wonderful new endeavor.

I'll get back to posting soon. Playing catch up after traveling and then getting sick means I don't have time right now to tell you all how stupid I think the people giving Oprah a hard time about the rules at her school are. And I realize I haven't called Puffy an idiot in a while or ragged on Essence Magazine in a minute. And you don't even want to hear what I think about that disgrace to Black womanhood New York... Maybe in the near future... For now, check out Kimber An's review here:

Enduring Romance

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Back from NYC but sick as all get out...

I tried to fight it... But the sick bug has caught me. I knew that all the traveling and not getting the proper rest would catch up to me sooner or later. I hate being sick. And I especially hate being sick when I still have to go to work. BLAH!

Gwyneth

The Fourth and Final Winner is....

Hi All,

The fourth and final winner of my first contest is Denise Anderson. She writes of Latonya Stevens-Harrington the heroine in my second novel, If Only You Knew: "I really don't want to choose because all of your books have touched me. But here goes. Latonya really loved Carlton. She could never express this feeling because of her mother and father. And she always put other people before herself. She love her son, grandmother and sister. That is why she took the grandfather's threat to heart. Because she knew he was a powerful man. Latonya was a very sensitive loyal and caring person to go through what Carlton did to her. And his problem was how his mother was toward his father. I read this story so much my pages are tearing. Is there going to be a sequel?"

I'd say my first contest went well. I learned some things about my characters and what readers like. I think I may blog about it soon.

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

On the road again and MySpace...

Well I'm off to attend the Conference on College Composition and Communication. This is a very busy and crazy hectic conference for me. So, I probably won't be able to check in with my blog buddies. The good thing is the conference is in New York City. YAY! I hope I have a spare moment to sight see and get some good food. :-)

Also, the last MySpace hold out in the universe has finally caved. I have a MySpace page now. And I only have one friend... Tom. If you're on MySpace please be my friend... please... I'm still working on the page. But I have most of the things up that I want there. I'll more than likely use the same blog entries...

Gwyneth's MySpace Page

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

After spending the past day and a half at the airport...

I am finally back home. My flight from Miami was delayed for about three and a half hours on Sunday. This of course made me miss my connecting flight. And then I had to fly stand-by on a much later flight, the last flight of the evening as a matter of fact. And after sitting there all day, I found out that I wasn't going to make that flight. So after making a big fuss, I got sent to a hotel for the night and booked on another flight. But instead of a direct flight, I had to fly to another city and then connect to another flight to get home. I'm home now and I couldn't be happier.

It's nice to get away, but the ups and downs with travel these days, makes the "getting there" part of it too aggravating for words.


Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

And the third winner is...

Tonie Schoolfield has won the third copy of Cuffed by Candlelight. She writes that her favorite character is "Darren Whitman from your book I'm Gonna Make You Love Me, and that is because he has loved her since they were kids and even though she got on his nerves there was always something about her that kept him coming back and then as they got older his love grew stronger. It reminded me of a guy I know that is very sweet and does things a little off the cuff but for the right reasons."

There is one more copy left to be won! But you have to be in it to win it.


much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Making It Hot and the Emma Awards

Saturday was a busy day at the Romance Slam Jam! I did a workshop with A. C. Arthur on the love scene in romance novels and it was wonderful! You all might remember I interviewed A. C. a little while back on the blog. It was fun to get the chance to work with her on this workshop.

Here's the description for our workshop:

"Making It Hot: The Love Scene in Romance"
This workshop will examine those scenes in the romance novels that keep readers turning the pages: the first time, the hook-up, doing the deed... The love scene often has a prominent place in the romance novel, and we will explore why. In romance the best scenes are not only hot and steamy, but also deeply emotional. To be blunt, it's more than a little bump and grind. This workshop will explore what makes these scenes hot. What keeps us coming back for more? What makes us stop reading so that we can pause to fan ourselves with the book? And most important, what touches us in that special place in our hearts? We will get the discussion going by reading some of our favorites as well as some of our own work.

The workshop went well and we had a pretty packed room by the end. Some of the other workshop ran a little over and the room filled up as they got out of the other sessions. The interaction was great and I think it was useful for readers and writers. It's clear that the love scene is important for a reason... I read from Sweet Sensation and Cuffed by Candlelight. And I have to say that I need to read those love scenes a little more often. I couldn't get through the scene from Cuffed by Candlelight with out giggling. My friend Eleanor said it was because I was getting hot. LOL. But I think it because I'm just so innocent that reading the scene made me blush… Anyway A. C. read some pretty heated scenes from her work that had me fanning myself…

The rest of the conference was wonderful. You'll notice that I missed posting on Friday. But it was a pretty full day. I attended a session on "Reading and Reviewing African American Romance" by Eleanor Shields of Black Butterfly Review. The discussion in that session was lively and it was very clear that readers know what they want in their romance novels. I then went to Evelyn Palfrey's session, "It's not about you. It's about the book." That session was very informative and all about how writers can go about building their careers. Then I had to go and have a mojito for K. D. King since she couldn't be here. And then there was a bus trip to the Hard Rock casino. I lost $26.00… :-(

Saturday I heard two amazing writers speak. The lunch keynote speaker was Deirdre Savoy and then I heard Terry McMillan speak. I was in awe of Terry McMillan. The woman was amazing. There are really no words to express how it felt to see her in person… None.

Finally, Saturday evening was the Emma Awards and I'm so excited to share with you all that I won! I'm still in shock. But I'll recap all the winners for this evening.

Brenda Jackson won the Career Achievement Award. And although she couldn't make it this year, she sent a lovely speech that was read by Slam Jam founder Emma Rodgers. And Terry McMillan presented the award.

I won the Emma Award for Favorite New Author.

Vegas Bites won the Emma Award for Favorite Anthology. Congratulations to L. A. Banks, J. M Jeffries, Seressia Glass, and Natalie Dunbar.

I'm Gonna Make You Love Me won for Book of the Year. (I am still in shock.)

Darren Whitman from I'm Gonna Make You Love Me won for Favorite Hero. (Shocked.)

Alicia Taylor from I'm Gonna Make You Love Me won for Favorite Heroine. (Pinch me am I dreaming?)

Love Me Carefully by A. C. Arthur won for Favorite Romantic Suspense. Congrats A. C. !

The Closer I Get to You by Melanie Schuster won for Favorite Sequel in a Romance Series. Congrats, Melanie!

Delight Before Christmas by Angie Daniels won for Favorite Steamy Romance. Congrats, Angie!

Defining Moments by Jacqueline Thomas won Favorite Inspirational. Congrats, Jaqueline!

"Chocolate Kisses," by Renee Luke won for Favorite Novella. It was in the anthology by the same title which also had novellas by Francis Ray and Mary Ann Reid. Congrats, Renee Luke!

Francis Ray won Favorite Author! Congrats, Francis!

Dyanne Davis's Misty Blue won the award for Favorite Cover. Congrats, Dyanne!

I want to thank Adrienne McSweeney, Tisha Hill and the other members of Inner Elevation from the Written Word book club for planning and hosting such a wonderful event. I hope these ladies take a much need rest after this. They deserve it! Next year the Romance Slam Jam will be in Chicago. I can't wait. I really look forward to it each year.

Well, I have to fly back to home in the morning. I'll be leaving this wonderful Miami sunshine for the lovely snow… So, I better get some sleep.

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth (Who is still very much in shock)

Finished My Workshop!

Today is the first day of the Romance Slam Jam and I did my workshop this morning. It's great to go first and get it over and done with. Because now I can relax until I do a panel on Saturday with A. C. Arthur. I'm supposed to be having lunch right now. But I thought I'd post first because I'm trying to be nice and make you all feel like you are here with me. :-)

Anyway, my workshop was geared toward readers but I think it was useful for writers and aspiring writers as well. The workshop was titled, "Couldn't Put It Down: What Makes a Compelling Romance Read?"

Here's the blurb:

This workshop will explore the question, what makes a romance novel good. We have all had the experience of finishing a book and smiling, sufficiently satisfied with money and time well spent. We have also had the experience of finishing a book (or not finishing a book) and wanting to throw the book against the wall. The reasons for these experiences are as varied as the personalities of the readers. But I believe that there are certain elements that we can point to in a particularly great book and pretty much all agree on. Things that say to us all, this was a good read! In this workshop we will share some of these using examples from contemporary romance and encourage lots of interaction from the audience as we all try and figure out: what makes a compelling read?

I had them think and free write for a few moments at the start of the workshop just to get us all thinking about our likes and dislikes. Here are the three things I had them free write on:

First, list five traits that any good romance novel should have, in your opinion.
Second, come up with your own short definition of what makes a page turning read, what makes a book one that is hard to put down.
Third, give us the names of five romance novels that you have read that fit your qualifications.

The workshop had about ten women in it and we really had a great discussion and it felt like a really good book club discussion. I had a great time. And I feel like we had a nice exchange.

I talked about the things that I feel make for a compelling read and most of them agreed with me and had wonderful things to add.

I came up with a brief list of must-haves for the compelling read.
~ The "You had me at hello" factor: Have you ever noticed that most books that you can't put down usually grab you from page one. You start reading it at the characters, the language and the plot, all come together on that first page in such a powerful way that you are immediately captured in the prose. This doesn't always happen from page one. But when it does... wow...
~ Characters, Characters, Characters: When a writer gets me emotionally invested in their characters in anyway, I'm there until the last page and sometimes even after. All of the women noted the importance of characters and they had a variety of qualifications. But characters were high on the list. I talked about the fact that for me, I don't have to like or love the characters immediately. But I have to feel something, even if it is dislike and I'm reading and waiting for said character to get what's coming to them or the wake-up call. If I feel something for the characters then I will keep turning those pages.
~ Plotting and pacing: The whole point of "I couldn't put it down" is based on the fact that you don't want the reader to put the book down. If the plot starts to drag or it get off track and veers off then the read may put the book down and not pick it back up. For me plotting and pacing is important. You want to keep upping the ante adding to the drama, emotion and tension so that the reader is constantly feeling as if she can't wait to see what will happen next.
~ The "When the Stuff Hits the Fan" or "When All Hell Breaks Loose" Factor: This is important and goes along with pacing and plot. Usually books that keep us turning the page keep us hooked because we are in on a big secret that the character has yet to find out and when they find out, oh boy. And we keep reading because we know that when it unfolds, oh boy. Or writers who are really good will have the big secret hinted at, giving the reader clues and just enough information to keep the reader guessing. And then when everything comes out, wow! These are all things that have to be navigated carefully, because you don't want to have the reader continue to turn the pages thinking something huge is going to happen and then it fizzles or the reader says, is that it?! The pay off has to pack a punch.
~ The "Don't be a Spike Lee Flick" factor - The final part of creating the compelling read for me is knowing that perfect place to end it. Have you ever noticed that no matter how excellent a Spike Lee film is he always seems to drag them out just a tad too long? I find myself watching his films and thinking, he could have ended that movie right there and it would have been perfect. And then there is usually a half hour or so left on the film. Writers don't want readers thinking, dang when is she going to end this. You don't want readers thinking, okay, she's just adding stuff to be adding stuff now. Or the dreaded, dang, are we there yet. We want readers to close the book and say "ahhh, perfect."

So that was my workshop. There are more workshops at 2:00 and then a 70s party! I will try and check in on Friday. But I can't promise. I might have too much fun at the 70s party.

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

I made it! I'm in Miami!

After being on airplanes and sitting in airports since around 6:00 am, I'm in Miami, y'all. The Romance Slam Jam officially starts on Thursday morning. YAY! I'm going to try and be good and give updates while I'm here. But I am in Miami, y'all! LOL. And I'm with my romance reading and writing folks. So, there is no telling how much time I'll have to post. :-)

Anyway, I thought I'd leave you all with the Will Smith cut that has been playing in my head since last week--Miami.



much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Things that make you ask why... Crazy People

Why do crazy people always seem to latch on to me? Seriously. Do I have a sign on my head that says, "Come here crazy person. I want to be your friend." And why is it that I never realize that the person has issues until I'm knee-deep in the friendship or relationship. I just look up one day and realize, "Hey this person is a nut." Or, to quote an old saying from the south that my mom used to say, "This fool is fool!" Anyway, I'm only bringing it up because I do think that sometimes we can look at patterns in our lives and maybe, just maybe, I'm attracting all these lunatics for a reason. But you guys would let me know if I was crazy right? You wouldn't let your girl walk around here thinking she's sane and she's really got a few screws loose, right? And what about you all? Do you find yourself attracting the same kind of people and not realizing until too late how nuts they are? And how do you get rid of a crazy person? And I realize this post is not PC and it's not cool to make fun of the crazy people. But if they would just leave me alone, I really wouldn't be writing this post. So, I'll have to be un-PC today...

Much love and peace,

Gwyneth

And the second winner is...

The second winner of my first contest is Betty Dowdell. She wins a signed copy of Cuffed by Candlelight. She writes, "Why can I have only one favorite especially since my two favorites are connected by the Divine. But, if I must choose then it is definitely Prince Darwu (Divine Destiny). Fiercely loyal, tall, sexy, strong, handsome, intelligent, determined, a born leader, did I mention sexy?? ... One of the things I loved most about Darwu is his faithfulness to those he loved. He loved his parents and was faithful to the throne, he loved Ourlane and was faithful to the people, and most of all he loved his Divine Mate who he thought was lost to him forever and he was faithful to avenge her death against those he held responsible for it. Even when he found out his mate Kara was a part of The Resistance and he knew her feelings were torn he was still faithful to the Divine's union...Yes, Darwu is worthy of 'super hero' status and I can't wait to see what will happen with our beloved couple in the future."

That means there are only two more copies of Cuffed By Candlelight left to be won. Don't you want to be one of the winners? You can be if you enter today! (Okay, now I really feel like a game show announcer... Come on down! You're the next contestant... LOL.)

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Giving New Authors a Try…

This is a topic that has come up often on the web, but I thought it might be interesting to discuss here. Let's face it, some of us don't like to try new things. Or... we find something we like and we just stick to that. Some of us tried something new once and it disappointed us. So, we vowed never to try anything new again. It's a nice safe way to live... And a somewhat sure way to avoid disappointment (until the tried-and-true disappoints us… but that's another post…)

Anyway, when it comes to books, I can see how this method can come in handy. Books are expensive. And--unless you are a true bookaholic and have a book buying habit that defies all reason--it stands to reason that you would stick to what you know. And I do realize that as a bookaholic and a new author my views on this topic are so biased I can't claim anything but biased. However, I am going to try my best to present an unbiased… Aww… forget it…

Let's just change the whole flow of this post… Here's the thing, in my humble opinion, even my favorite authors were new authors to me at one point in time. There was a moment in the bookstore where I picked up a book because the cover looked interesting or I had heard something about this author, whatever... And I took the book home on the slight chance that I might like it. And lo-and-behold I did like it! And I gloomed on to the author, read her back list if she had one, or waited for her next release if it was a first novel. That's how relationships between authors and readers are made. Isn't it beautiful? Ahhh...

So, it's always funny to me when I hear people say they only read author "X" because author "X" never disappoints and they seldom try anyone new. I have my automatic buy authors for sure. But even the most prolific of them can't write fast enough to keep me in book buying and book reading heaven forever. I need to try new authors because my toppling over to-be-read pile demands that I keep it toppling over. It's like that monster plant in Little Shop of Horrors, "Feed me, Gwyneth…"

Anyway, I thought I'd put the question out there to you all. I love trying new authors and it's not just because I am one or I play one on TV. I like feeling like I am discovering new talent and I am one of the first to be in the know about how wonderful this new author is. What about you all? Do you try new authors regularly? Are you more conservative and stick to your tried-and-true? Have you discovered any new or new to you authors that you want to tell us about? What are your thoughts on the topic?

Happy Reading,

Gwyneth

Party over there...

Hi All,

Don't forget to drop by Kimber An's blog and check out the Cyber-Launch Party she's having for my latest release, Sweet Sensation. They party has already started and folks are having a blast! There are all kinds of food and drinks. I just barely managed to slip away from the festivities to come and leave a note for you all. There will be an autographed copy of Sweet Sensation for one lucky party guest. But you have to go to the party and leave a comment to be entered.

I'll be hanging over there today.

See you all there!

Star Captains' Daughter, Kimber An

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Kimber An Does If Only You Knew

Hi All,

Kimber An picked If Only You Knew as one of her famous Tuesday Speed Reads. Stop by her site and check it out. Also she's hosting a Cyber-Launch party for me on Thursday. And there will be an autographed copy of Sweet Sensation to win....

Check out her Tuesday Speed Read here:

Star Captains' Daughter, Kimber An

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

RAWSISTAZ Chat Tonight!

Hi all,

If you're looking for something cool to do at 9:00 pm est, come on and chat with Beverly Jenkins, Katherine D. Jones and myself. We'll be doing a book discussion of Cuffed by Candlelight. So stop by and chat awhile. :-)

RAWSISTAZ Chat

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

And the first winner is....

Kristin Felton is the first winner in my first contest! Yay! She won an autographed copy of Cuffed by Candlelight. She wrote, "My favorite is Carlton Harrington III. The reason that I love his character so much is because he was very complex (like myself). Something about his character has made me reread this book over and over. It is definitely one of my favorites."

It's not too late to enter the contest! You might be the next winner. There are three more copies of Cuffed by Candlelight waiting to be won! (I feel like a game show announcer. LOL.)

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

Tagged once more...

So, the lovely Michelle Buckley has seen fit to get me back for tagging her a few weeks ago. And since I don't want anyone else to feel like they need to return the favor, I'm not tagging anyone this time. But this was a fun one. So, if anyone wants to tag themselves and do it, feel free.

What main lesson have you learned in the month of February?

I learned two things this month. The first thing is that at the end of the day, the things you don't have control over--like what people think about you or say about you--don't really matter in the large scheme of things. And the second thing is that haters will always be haters. They can't help it. It's what they do. To paraphrase Kanye West, hater men marry hater women and have hater kids…

What bad habit do you want to rid yourself of this month?

This month I am going to work on letting go of baggage in the form of negative people--baggage that is crazy, baggage that is negative, baggage that is backstabbing... I'm not saying heads will roll or anything like that. I'm just going to calmly and carefully weed out the people that I now realize don't mean me any good and never did.

What are your favorite muses?

Music is probably my all-time favorite muse. I love all kinds of music. It makes me happy and sparks my creativity. It also means that my CD rack is just as overflowing as my bookshelf and it is hard to tell where I spend the most money, the record store or the book store.

Name one thing UNIQUELY DIFFERENT that you recently discovered about yourself?

Hmmm… I don't think I have anything that is uniquely different about me. I'm a pretty regular girl… I think the one thing that I have that might make my patience snap a little quicker than most people is an incredibly low tolerance for bullshit or fake people...

What is your definition of passion vs intimacy?

Passion is that carefree, indulgent, no-holds barred feeling. It's how you feel when you know that nothing and no one is going to stand in the way of your enjoyment. So it doesn't matter what you learn or find out about the person or thing you're passionate about you're going to have it anyway. And intimacy is when you know all there is to know, warts and all and you're as open with all your own flaws and short-comings, and you are still able to connect and build something real with that other person. Intimacy is what happens when the passion quiets down a little but the love is still there.

What are you vibing too?

I haven't purchased his CD yet, but I am feeling Robin Thicke's "Lost Without U." That song makes me feel all kinds of sexy! And I can listen to it over and over again, because I like feeling sexy. ;-)

What are your favorite gadgets?

I don't have any favorite gadgets. I've never really been a gadget person. That would be the hubby... My favorite gadget of his would be his Rocket Chef. Watching him get all excited to cook and chop stuff up in his Rocket Chef is a treat. I like seeing the hubby happy and excited.

What would be a perfect date with the person you're thinking of right now...A night of spoken words, comedy club, quiet restaurant with dim lights, walk on the beach at dusk, an evening at home?

I think it's a tie between a quiet restaurant with dim lights and an evening at home. I'm a simple girl. It doesn't take much to make me happy.

Last book read?

Just About Sex, Ann Christopher.

What would you re-name it based upon your perception of the storyline?

I actually think the title worked perfectly for the storyline. And I highly recommend it to folks looking for a funny and emotional read.

How many times a day do you look at your blog or the blogs of others?

Too many! I need an intervention for real, y'all. I spend way too much time cruising blogs and checking back to see if anyone commented and what they said… Too. Much. Time. LOL.

Who's your favorite blogger or spot you find lurking around most often?

Most of my favorite bloggers can be found over on my sidebar. These are the ones I try to visit and comment on regularly. If I read the blog and make comments then chances are they are a favorite. If I added them to my links, then they are a favorite. And I love to read, so I'm always looking for more favorites.

If you were to live the opposite sex for the day what name would you give yourself?
John was my father's name. So I guess I'd name myself that for a day.

Describe yourself in 3 adjectives?
Nice and Bitchy and Sincere

One goal you set for yourself for the month of March?
By the end of the month, I want to come to some conclusions about my career in romance writing. It has been a year since the first book came out and I need to decide if I still want to pursue it.

March Interview with Ann Christopher

This month I have the pleasure of interviewing my soror, Ann Christopher. She has some interesting things to say about her work and writing. So check it out!

GB: Hello, soror! Welcome to my blog. I'm so excited to have you here and to have a chance to chat and find out more about you. So, I'll start with the basics--what I do know--and then ask for more, more. I know that you are a lawyer and you left your practice after the birth of your second child in order to raise your children. And I know that this is when--luckily for us romance readers--you started writing your own romance novels. But what I don't know is how you manage to find time to write with little ones at home. Your third novel is being published this month. What's your secret to being so productive?

AC: Hey, Gwyneth! Thanks for having me! I like to get out and visit a little!

Productive? I dunno … I've been spending a lot of time on marketing lately, but it's all good. The kids are both in school full time now (Praise God!) so in theory I'm writing during the day. And then I also write after dinner.

And, BTW, you've got some nerve asking anyone else about productivity when YOU'RE a full time college instructor AND writer, LOL!

GB: I read that you've always read romance novels. And anyone that visits your website, knows that you read lots of books and let readers know what you are reading. You read widely and it shows through your own amazing prose. Can you talk a little bit about why you think it is important to take time to read and remain engaged with the written word, even as you are trying to busily put your own words out there?

AC: Well, Stephen King, in his wonderful book, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, says that if you don't read, you don't have the chops to write. I agree. I read for fun and to learn. I can discover how to write--and how NOT to write--by reading other people's books. Sometimes I learn more from the bad books than the good ones, LOL. Every now and then I'll hear about an author who says, "I don't read other people's stuff," or, "I don't have time to read," and I just scratch my head.

GB: So, your third novel, Just About Sex, will be out this month. (I have my copy and I can't wait to be done with my contest judging so that I can read it. Why, did I agree to judge! I want to read Ann's book, now! Whew. That felt good. I needed to vent. Anyway…) Your third novel is coming out in March 2007 and your first novel Trouble--which I loved by the way--was released this past summer in July 2007. What has your life been like so far as a multi-published author? Has the journey to publication held up to your expectations? Is it everything you thought it would be?

AC: It's been great--a true blessing. I LOVE hearing from readers--one nice little note in my inbox or comment on my blog makes my whole day.

Before I was published, I heard authors say that you never really "make it," and you never really stop worrying, but I didn't believe that then because I thought getting published was like getting to the Promised Land. Now I do believe those authors. I still worry, only instead of worrying about getting an agent or an editor, I worry about print runs and sell-thrus.


GB: As I said, I adored Trouble. I also loved your second novel Risk. And I know I'm going to love Just About Sex. One thing I noticed about your writing is the wonderful details and descriptions. You really tap into all of the reader's senses and get them to really be in that moment with your characters. I sat in on your workshop on the five senses and writing at the Romance Writers of America Conference in Atlanta this past summer and it was excellent. But even that didn't prepare me for all of the sudden craving some homemade spaghetti after reading a scene in Risk where the hero Justus proves that he can make it hot in the kitchen as well. I thought, no this woman does not have me sitting here wishing I could get me some of that spaghetti. LOL. Can you talk a little bit about the importance of details, description and delighting the senses? And let us know how you became so great at it?

AC: Oh, I'm glad you like the detail, including the spaghetti scene! Here's the thing: I love to eat, and to cook. Food is one of life's great pleasures. So I like to write about it whenever I can. That's safer than eating it all the time, LOL!

As for the other senses, I think sensorial detail is an important part of a romance novel because it helps keep the sensuality level high. The readers want to know: what kind of sheets are on that bed? Satin? Flannel? What does the hero's hair feel like? Coarse? Silky? Even better--what does the hero SMELL like? Those sorts of details really make a book come alive, IMHO.

GB: So, like said, I've read the first two books and I’ve read the blurb on the back of the third and I'm noticing a theme. Lawyers. I know you're one. And looking at your website and seeing the tag, "Provocative Lawyers… Overwhelming Problems… Undeniable Passions…" I think it's pretty safe to say that we'll be seeing lots of lawyers in the future from you. So, can you say a little bit about why you are so intrigued by lawyers as leads? Might it have a little something to do with the fact that you met your own leading man in Law School? Or, is it just the fact that lawyers and love makes for all kinds of juicy stories?

AC: They say "write about what you know," and I know lawyers. But also--as you know--more conflict makes for a more exciting book, and I think lawyers, by the nature of their jobs, are surrounded by more conflict, and may be a little less likely to back down from a conflict. Many of them are also very driven, and that makes for interesting characters.

GB: So in Trouble, we have a younger heroine who is a law student and an older hero who has his own law practice. In Risk we have a younger hero and a slightly older heroine who's a lawyer working hard to make partner. Can you say a little more about why you decided to play with age differences in your first two novels?


AC: Hmmm … I'm not sure it was a conscious decision to play with age. But with Risk, the heroine was uptight, and I wanted to push her waaaay outside her comfort zone. And I think/hope Justus did that. J

GB: You've created some rather hot, sexy and brooding heroes so far. I adored me some Mike Baldwin in Trouble and loved me some Justus Robinson in Risk. So, how do I make this into a question when all I really want to say is 'have mercy, those where some hotties'…. Hmm… Well… Can you talk a little bit about what goes into your hero making process? Yeah… Characterization… How do you manage to create those lovable, realistic, characters? And just so folks don't think I'm stuck on the hot guys, I really loved the character Maya and think you did an excellent job at creating such an adorable little girl. So fill us in on some of your great characterization secrets.

AC: Oh, I'm so happy! Can you hear me clapping with joy? I'm really glad you like the characters, ESPECIALLY the heroes. I put lots of love into them!

Creating interesting characters--it's a lot of fun. I like to watch people and see what they say … and what they don't say. What about their body language? Does it match what's coming out of their mouths?

Also, people have many sides. No one is all good or all bad. Everyone has strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots. I like to explore them.

GB: Okay, I know that this is an annoying question for an avid reader like you… But enquiring minds want to know what writers read. For real… I asked a bunch of people… LOL. Anyway, what are you reading right now? Who are some of your favorites?

AC: I just discovered romantic adventure writer Cherry Adair, and am reading Hide and Seek, which I really like. I just picked up an early copy of J.R. Ward's Lover Revealed (yay!!), so I'll probably start that later (I read several books at a time--I have a short attention span.). My TBR pile is teetering and threatening to take over the whole house. I have several Beverly Jenkins books I haven't read yet (hanging head in shame) and I--like you--am making my way through a stack of RITA contest books.

GB: What's next in the pipeline for Ann Christopher? Can you give us a sneak peak at the March release, Just About Sex, and what we can expect in the future?


AC: JAS--I had lots of fun writing it, and lots of giggling at the keyboard. It's the story of Dr. Simone, a sex-therapist who writes an advice column. She runs afoul of attorney Alex Greene when she prints a letter from his disgruntled ex, so he sets out to teach Simone a little lesson. And that's all I’m going to say about it! ;)

Look for my next Harlequin/Kimani Press novel, Sweeter Than Revenge, in January.

GB: How can readers best contact you?

AC: I love to hear from readers through my site at www.annchristopher.com

GB: Thanks for stopping by the blog, soror!

AC: Thank you so much for having me! This was fun!

That's all folks! Be sure to check out the authors scheduled for the coming months:

April~Sheila Goss
May~Michelle Buckley
June~Delilah Dawson
July~Patricia Sargeant

much love and peace,

Gwyneth

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