Writer and librarian Jadesola James is offering readers a sweet treat with her latest release. I recently spoke with her about The Sweetest Charade.
Tell me about your latest book.
My next release, The Sweetest Charade, is out in just a few weeks, on June 22! It features a staged affair set during a luxurious train journey between a social media influencer and history professor—both of whom need the exposure to raise their profiles! their attraction to each other definitely edges into their comfort zones, and their journey to love is slow-burning and deeply intense.
What inspired you to write it?
I wrote The Sweetest Charade while on maternity leave. I had a hard pregnancy and recovery afterwards, and writing was one of the things that kept my mood elevated, helped me to escape. I’d seen an editor from Carina Press put a story set on a luxurious train ride as a “wish,” and that caught my attention. I work in academia, so Alexander’s character came quite naturally—and Delysia was the perfect foil for his stuffiness.
When did you fall in love with the written word?
I’ve been in love with stories since I could remember. I’m Nigerian and also grew up in the South, where Black American culture has a great tradition of storytelling and the written word. I probably first fell in love as a little kid in Sunday School—I’d tell my mates new endings to Bible stories. They were absolutely fascinated, but my teachers weren’t as thrilled.
What’s the best part of being an author?
Getting to create worlds that look exactly as I dream them, and characters that I absolutely love. I also enjoy being able to explore themes that interest me and that I can relate to.
What’s the hardest part of being an author?
TIME MANAGEMENT! I have two little ones, and it’s oh so hard! I also struggle with self-doubt—I am convinced my work is terrible at least ten times a week. Both are perfectly normal!
What books have you read lately and loved?
I recently read a fascinating history of the Barbizon Hotel in New York City. I also just finished re-reading Chimamanda Adiche’s Half of a Yellow Sun. I always take the deepest breath when I’ve read the last lines of that book—it’s perfection.
What book(s) are you most excited to read next?
Oh, so many! I’ll limit it to three: Helen Hoang has a romance coming out, The Heart Principle, that I’m eager to read. Adriana Herrera is working on a series called Las Leonas featuring three Afro-Latinx heiresses who find love in Paris at the 1889 World’s Fair. I’m trying hard to keep my dignity and not beg her for galleys. And I’ve got a copy of Ms. Beverly Jenkins’ Wild Rain that has been eyeing me all week.
Who would you cast in a movie to play your main characters?
Oh, this is so hard! Delysia is Eritrean, and an influencer, and there’s a model/influencer, Mical Bockru, that I used as her inspiration. Alexander, I think, was a little less certain in my head; he was more of a type than an actual person. Handsome, but in a very old-fashioned sort of way. Honestly, I had a young Smokey Robinson or Harry Belafonte in my head when I was creating him, but they’re both definitely out of commission for that role! I have to think on this a little more, lol.
What’s next for you?
My debut with Harlequin Presents, Redeemed by His New York Cinderella, is out in September! I’ve just seen the cover, and it’s a dream. I can’t wait to hold the book in my hands. I’m working on another book for Harlequin Presents, and it’s set in Abuja, Nigeria as well as Seychelles! I’m looking forward to exploring the continent with my characters.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Just that I’m so very grateful for this opportunity and for all the kind words and encouragement I’ve received from authors, bloggers and other members of Romancelandia along the way. All of you are wonderful, and I hold you dear to my heart. Romance is everything!
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of The Sweetest Charade.
To learn more about writer and librarian Jadesola James, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Website: jadesolajames.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/jadesolajames
Twitter: twitter.com/JJ_Nicola