I've decided to give up my personal blog. This will be my last post. I've joined forces with fellow authors Pamela Samuels-Young, and Gammy Singer to form a joint blog called The Crime Sistahs. So come on over and join us! It should be fun.

I love Halloween! I loved trick or treating as a child and I love handing out candy to little trick or treaters now that I'm way too old to be trick or treating. I love the scary movie marathons that many channels offer during the month of October and the haunted houses.  I love it all.  Here's a list of some of my favorite scary movies.

Fright Night- For young Charlie Brewster, nothing could be better than an old horror movie late at night. Two men move in next door, and for Charlie with his horror movie experience, there can be no doubt that their strange behavior is explained by the fact that they are a vampire and his undead day guardian. The only one who can help him hunt them down is a washed-up actor, Peter Vincent, who hosts Charlie's favorite TV show, Fright Night. Vincent doesn't really believe that vampires exist, but does it for the money...


Let's Scare Jessica To Death-Jessica has just been released from a mental hospital. Wanting to "start over", she moves into an old New England farmhouse with her husband and a friend. Before they even arrive Jess starts having strange encounters, and after they find a young transient in their new home, things start getting rather nasty. Seems this redheaded hippie chick is in fact a vampire, a onetime resident of the house who drowned on her wedding day, and all the old guys in town are her harpies (they all have scarred necks and arms). Or is Jess really having another breakdown? Who knows...


The Exorcist-Based on the 1971 novel by William Peter Blatty, The Exorcist marries three different scenarios into one extraordinary plot. A visiting actress in Washington, D.C., notices dramatic and dangerous changes in the behavior and physical make-up of her 12-year-old daughter. Meanwhile, a young priest at nearby Georgetown University begins to doubt his faith while dealing with his mother's terminal sickness. And, book-ending the story, a frail, elderly priest recognizes the necessity for a show-down with an old demonic enemy.


The Amityville Horror-Based on a true story that was claimed by writer Jay Anson, The Amityville Horror is about a large house on the coast of Long Island where newly weds George and Kathy Lutz and their three children move into the house that they hope will be their dream house but it ends up in terror. Not aware that a murder took place in the house several years back, George and Kathy turn to their family priest Father Delaney who believes the house is haunted and performs an exorcism on the house. But the evil spirit in the house causes him to become blind and makes him very ill. George and Kathy with the help of another priest Father Bolen and a police detective they face the fears of the house, but not knowing the spirit is planning to possess George and then the children...


The Other-In the summer of 1935, 9-year-old twins Niles and Holland Perry live with their family on a Connecticut farm. Their loving grandmother Ada has taught them something called "the game." A number of accidents begin happening, and it seems to Niles that Holland is responsible. It is Ada who begins to see the truth, and she is the only one who can stop this macabre game of murder.


The Sixth Sense-Malcom Crowe is a child psychologist who receives an award on the same night that he is visited by a very unhappy ex-patient. After this encounter, Crowe takes on the task of curing a young boy with the same ills as the ex-patient. This boy "sees dead people". Crowe spends a lot of time with the boy (Cole) much to the dismay of his wife. Cole's mom is at her wit's end with what to do about her son's increasing problems. Crowe is the boy's only hope.


Audrey Rose-A New York couple experience bizarre, stalker-like behavior from an English stranger. While they attempt to bar him from their lives, he slides his way in anyway and tries to convince them that their 11-year-old girl is the reincarnation of his 11-years-departed daughter, Audrey Rose.


Carrie-Carrie White is a shy young girl who doesn't make friends easily. After her class mates taunt her about her horrified reaction to her totally unexpected first period one of them takes pity on her and gets Tommy Ross, her boyfriend and class hunk to invite Carrie to the senior prom. Meanwhile another girl who has been banned from the prom for her continued aggressive behaviour is not as forgiving and plans a trick to embarrass Carrie in front of the whole school. What she doesn't realise is that Carrie is ... gifted, and you really don't want to get her angry.


Dressed To Kill- Psychotic transsexual Bobbi murders the patient of a prominent doctor and then pursues the high-priced prostitute who caught a glimpse of Bobbi in the elevator.  Liz  comes under suspicion of the crime and teams up with the patient's son to catch the killer.


The Ring-A mysterious video tape is killing off anyone who watches it. Whenever the victim watches it, the phone rings, telling them they have only one week to live. A young reporter named Rachel is investigating these events, but after she and her small son watch the tape, it becomes a race against time to find out why the tape is killing everyone and how it could be stopped.

Saturday I went shopping for some new clothes. For the record, I'm not big on shopping. In my opinion there are only two good reasons to take your clothes off. One of them is bathing and the other is NOT to try on clothes. Anyway, I found some really cute stuff AND on sale no less. The only thing that depressed me was having to get the clothes a size bigger than the last time I went shopping, which was this past spring. I wasn't happy about that at all and consoled myself with a large ice cream cone from Dairy Queen.  I have a lot of moments like that hence the whole having to by bigger clothes thing. I don't quite know what happened to me.  I didn't always used to be a slug. There was a time when I did an hour of non-stop high impact aerobics, or kickboxing every day. What happened to that chick? Where did she go? Now the only exercise I get these days is lifting a fork to my face! I don't eat to live. I live to eat.  With the holidays rapidly approaching, bringing with it a multitude of food, I've decided to take some kind of action before I have to start wearing car covers. I'm not and I repeat NOT going on a diet. But I have decided to cut back and start moving. Today I used part of my lunch hour to go walking on the fitness trail in back of the campus. It actually felt good. I felt like I accomplished something. I'm going to try and do this everyday. Really I am!

I want to thank the Nive to Five Diva's for featuring The Company You Keep in their Fall Literary Spotlight! Thanks, Divas!

Promotion. Yikes! That dreaded word. Years ago, when I first decided I wanted to write, the word promotion never even crossed my mind. It never occurred to me that I'd have to do more than write books, which is hard enough. Now writers are expected to be glorified publicists too. That's crazy.  I thought promotion was solely the publishers job.  Once you've signed on the dotted line you quickly find out that unless you're being buzzed as the next big thing, you can count on your publisher to do very little for your book. Most authors just get a review copies mailed to reviewers or maybe, if they're lucky, some promotional postcards.  Publishers just kind of throw new authors at the wall to see if they stick.  Usually authors have to earn their way to more promo from their publishers by selling well. But how does a book sell well if no one knows about it?

Here I am with a book that's been out for five months and I'm already thinking about promo for book two. It will be interesting to see what my new publisher, Harlequin, will do differently than BET. I've decided to do a small tour that I'm going to call the Tangled Book Tour. Basically, I plan to do signings in major Ohio cities: Columbus, Dayton, Cleveland, Cincinnati. I'm also hoping to attend some book conventions: ALA, Book Expo, NBCC etc, whatever my meager budget will allow. I've hooked up with publicist Susan Schwartzman again.  I've also hired a professional web designer to design a much needed new author website for me.  How will this affect my sales? Who knows! But at least a the end of the day I can say I did all I could.

Here's some more info on the purchase of BET Books by Harlequin.  Author Monica Jackson, who is much more in the loop about this whole thing than me, has posted some info and a Q & A on her blog.

Click here for Publishers Weekly.com's announcement of the sale that also includes news about BET Books' soon-to-be former distributor, Kensington Books.


Target Market News

BET Books being sold to leading romance novel publisher Harlequin
Linda Gill joins company as general manager

(October 6, 2005) BET Books, the publishing arm of Black Entertainment Television, has announced the sale of its book publishing assets to Harlequin Enterprises Ltd. The new ownership deal, expected to close November 30, 2005, positions the imprints Arabesque, Sepia and New Spirit to take full advantage of the world’s largest publisher of women’s fiction; and strategically position itself for growth within the U.S. and around the world. 

Company officials say the acquisition will realize a positive gain for all parties, particularly the authors. “This acquisition will fast track a key strategic initiative for Harlequin by offering greater breadth in publishing niches which have the opportunity of creating future growth for the overall Harlequin franchise,” said Donna Hayes, Harlequin Publisher and CEO. “The BET editorial strategy dovetails perfectly with that of Harlequin – romance, women’s fiction and inspirational publishing.” 

Harlequin Enterprises Limited is the global leader in series romance and one of the world's leading publishers of women's fiction, with titles issued worldwide in 25 languages and sold in 94 international markets. The company produces over 115 titles monthly and publishes more than 1,300 authors from around the world.

“We are excited about the opportunities ahead,” said Linda Gill (above), BET Books Vice President and Publisher who will join Harlequin and retain the position of General Manager. “Merging the publishing programs of our highly acclaimed three imprints with the nascent African-American program at Harlequin is a wonderful challenge which I welcome along with the unparalleled contributions of our authors, outstanding editors and staff.” 

Publishing 86 titles in 2005, an increase of 25% since its first full production year in 1999, BET Books has garnered literary praise as the leading publisher of African-American romances with the strong brand Arabesque; and forays into new genres with Sepia, particularly the African-American inspirational fiction imprint New Spirit. 

BET Books was formed in 1998 with the acquisition of Arabesque, and the BET cable network developed 13 made-for-television movies based on Arabesque novels which are now available on DVD and VHS. “BET Books has consistently grown during its tenure at BET, and we’re proud of the new authors who have launched their literary careers with us, as well as the best-selling authors who were able to see their characters come to life on the small screen,” said Scott Mills, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of BET.  “We wish everyone well in this new opportunity with one of the publishing industry’s most strategic companies.”

Kensington Publishing, which has previously provided sales, distribution and management services will continue to solicit orders for BET Books through November 30, 2005.

 As many of you may have already heard, my publisher, BET Books, has been purchased by Harlequin.


TORONTO (CP) - Harlequin Enterprises Ltd. has purchased the assets of BET Books, the publishing arm of the U.S.-based Black Entertainment Television, the company announced Thursday.

The new ownership deal is expected to close Nov. 30. Financial details were not released. The addition of BET Books, a leading publisher of African American women's fiction and the imprints Arabesque, Sepia and New Spirit to the Harlequin portfolio will enhance the position of Harlequin within a strong growth segment in the American book market.

"This acquisition supports a key strategic initiative for Harlequin of offering greater breadth in publishing niches that can create future growth for the overall Harlequin franchise," said Donna Hayes, publisher and CEO.


I didn't know anything about this until I read it in the news this morning.  My agent doesn't seem to think that the sale is anything for me to be concerned about. I've yet to talk to my editor, that is, if she's still my editor. I'm about as business savvy as a snail so I haven't even begun to think about all the  implications of this. It's too early in the morning for me to think properly.  I'll keep you posted.

When I write I find it kind of distracting to read books by other people. It's hard because there are so many books piling up in the corner of my bedroom that I'm itching to crack the cover on.  So, I thought I'd share what's on my To Be Read Pile. If any of you have read some of these book and have any feedback, or suggestions on other books, please let me know.

The Untelling By Tayari Jones-I was fortunate enough to receive an autographed copy of this book from the author herself, who also writes one of my favorite blogs. I've only heard good things about this book. I loved her first book, Leaving Atlanta, so I know this one will be excellent as well.

Cinnamon Kiss By Walter Mosley-Can't wait to find out what Easy Rawlins is up to. I was lucky enough to get to sit at Mr. Mosley's table during the Bouchercon Convention in Denver back in 2000 . But I was way to shy to actually talk to the man. I'm still kicking myself over that one because he was very nice and personable to everyone who approached him.

Voodoo Season By Jewell Parker Rhodes-I read and enjoyed Parker-Rhodes' Voodoo Dreams and am curious to see how she handles this subject matter in the form of a mystery.

Eleven On Top By Janet Evanovich-Even though the character of Lula is stereotypical and annoying, you can't deny that Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels are good for a laugh.

Joplin's Ghost By Tananarive Due-I've loved all of Ms. Due's books, especially The Good House, I'm looking forward to this new book.

Fledgling By Octavia Butler-I love anything to do with vampires and am interested to see what kind of spin Butler puts on the whole vampire lore.

The Historian By Elizabeth Kostova-See above.

Goodnight Nobody By Jennifer Weiner-I read the first chapter on her website and am anxious to read the rest of the book. Weiner is another funny favorite author of mine with a blog I love.

Yesterday I listened patiently as my mother read me an article about Oprah's book club in our local Sunday paper. As many of you have probably heard, Oprah has decided to open her book club to ALL books. It will be interesting to see what exactly this means. My take on this is that Oprah means all books by authors both living and dead. My mother seems to think it means all books period. I have a hard time imagining Oprah picking genre fiction. She seems to lean more towards serious literary fiction, which my book ain't. Though in her announcement she did say the book club would broaden the field in its selections. But I think she means more non-fiction books. I personally think I have a better chance of being struck by lightning while holding a winning powerball ticket than getting my book picked by Oprah.  But I'm glad her announcement made my mother happy. Though now she's going to bug me until I send a copy.

Yesterday I watched Crooklyn on TV One's Throwback Theater.  Crooklyn is one of my favorite movies. I'm a child of the seventies and Spike Lee really nailed the time period. Plus, I'll watch anything that fine ass  Delroy Lindo is in.

And speaking of fine, it seems actor Blair Underwood is jumping on the mystery writing bandwagon.  I can't wait to read his erotic mystery series which is being co-authored by Tananarive Due. Has anyone heard anything more about Blair Underwood's movie adaptation of Due's novel The Living Blood? I wonder if it's still in the works.

Recently I read an essay that Elaine Meryl Brown, author of the humorous mystery LEMON CITY,  wrote for the Sept/Oct. issue of Black Issues Book Review, about how she created the fictional town of Lemon City. It got me to thinking about the fictional town of Willow, Ohio, that I created for my own mystery series.

One of the main reasons why I decided to set my series in a fictional city was to distance Kendra from myself.  Many people think that I'm Kendra Clayton, which is completely untrue. Kendra and I do have some similarities but the main difference is: If one of my family members or friends is accused of murder, all I can do is help them find a good lawyer. I'm no detective LOL! Having said that, I felt if I set the series in my actual hometown of Springfield, OH people would not only think my series was autobiographical but they'd start looking for themselves in my writing. Already many of my friends and family have picked out characters that they think are based on them, which is baffling to me since some of my characters don't have too many good qualities.

Another reason why I decided on a fictional city was control. I could make up what ever I wanted in creating my fictional town.  I could make it as large or small as I wanted. I could populate it with whomever I wanted. I could locate it wherever I wanted. In short, I didn't have to do any research. But, that's not to say that Willow isn't patterned after some real cities. I actually made Willow a composite of two cities: My hometown of Springfield, Ohio and Athens, Ohio where I lived when I attended Ohio University.

I've completed book two in my series and am hard at work on book three. With each book Willow is becoming more and more fleshed out, more and more real to me.  Each time I work on my book I feel like I'm actually in Willow hanging out at Estelle's restaurant, walking the grounds of Kingford College,  interacting with Willow's colorful residents and loving every minute of it.  But, I guess that's as it should be since I plan to be spending quite a lot of time there.

Last Saturday I spent all day at Kings Island or Paramount's Kings Island as its now called. I confess I haven't been to King's Island in about 15 years. My aunt's company picnic was being held there and the tickets were free, as was a picnic lunch, so I figured what the hell.  I don't know how many of you have been to Kings Island lately but all the rides are now labeled by their "thrill" level. The Effel Tower has a "mild" thrill level while the Sling Shot, a contraption that flings crazy people who have a death wish AND an extra twenty bucks to spend, 260 feet into the air, has an "extreme" thrill level.  When we arrived my uncle told me about a ride that he liked called the Adventure Express. He said it wasn't scary at all and wasn't a roller coaster of any kind. So all of us, Me, Mom, Aunt, Uncle, Cousin, and Nieces hoped on the Adventure Express. True to his word the Adventure Express was not a roller coaster but nor did it have a "mild" thrill level, which I forgot to check before hopping blindly into the car.  Once we'd been securely fastened inside, the Adventure Express took off like a shot, or more accurately a runaway train. We were whipped this way and that and while there weren't any steep drop offs or high hills, I felt like I'd been put inside a blender. I spent the entire time, which was only a few minutes, hunched down low in my seat with my eyes closed holding on for dear life. I was sure if I let go I'd be flung out of the car out into the park someplace or possibly even outer space. Once the ride came to a blissful stop, I got off looking like I'd stuck my finger in a light socket. My hair looked like I'd combed it with an egg beater and my eyes were glazed.  Needless to say I didn't get on any more rides that day. I spent the rest of the day moving from bench to bench and watching everybody else's stuff while they rode.  As for the Adventure Express's "thrill" level, I'm embarrassed to say it was labled an "intermediate" thrill one step above "mild", which isn't good when my own personal thrill level is 'Low". Oh well, I guess I remember now why I haven't been to Kings Island in fifteen years.

Hey, you can get a special hardcover edition of The Company You Keep from Black Expressions Books Club. I've seen it and it looks really good.