Acknowledgments

Nina Simone once said, “An artist’s duty, as far as I’m concerned, is to reflect the times.” Maybe it’s about time that I start to do the same. But when writing commercial lit, I’m always wary of being too heavy-handed with the allegories and messaging. This is supposed to be escapism, isn’t it? People have a lot to deal with in their everyday lives and may just want to have a good time laughing, sighing, and rolling their eyes at all the drama on a novel’s pages. But, when I really thought about it, I realized I’ve tried to do a little of it in the past. In Can’t Stand the Heat, I talked about physical abuse in romantic relationships. In Another Woman’s Man, I explored a character finding out that her father was dying of cancer, and the feelings of loss and frustration she experienced soon after his death. In Bed of Lies, I talked about depression and plan to explore it even more in this book, the follow-up, Lust & Loyalty. Also, considering the times and current events, from the current political environment to #BlackLivesMatter protests, it’s hard not to put any of that in your work. Police brutality, especially within the black community, is always a concern. How black people, particularly how black men, are viewed and subsequently treated by cops regardless of their socioeconomic status can be alarming. In the real world, the Murdoch brothers, even with all their money, influence, and status wouldn’t be immune. I chose to reflect that in this entry of the Chesterton Scandal saga. I tried not to be heavy-handed with it, but hopefully I still get my point across.

I wouldn’t have the ability to write, to take any chances with my work, if it wasn’t for those around me who help me to get words on page. The person I always acknowledge first is my husband, Andrew, who was there before the books made it from my laptop to the bookshelf. He pep-talked me through each rejection letter and helped me keep the faith even when my belief in myself faltered.

I also want to thank my former editor, Mercedes Fernandez, for seeing the talent in me, and my new editor, Esi Sogah, for seeing it, too, and believing in the stories that I write. Having a champion for your work in a publishing house is immeasurable, and I’m grateful for every time you ladies go before the editorial board and say, “I really like this. We should acquire it.” I’m even more grateful for the doors you have opened for other writers of color. We really appreciate you!

I also want to thank my agent, Barbara Poelle. You can make as many martinis and goofy jokes as you want . . . I know you definitely have your stuff together. You’re an agent who I know has my back and will make sure I’m taken care of. I come to you with ideas and you always say, “I love it! Now let’s make that idea reality.” Thank you so much for all that you do.