What do you think?
Rate this book
Private Agenda
Their chemistry is undeniable.
Their timing... might be inevitable.
The Heights is on the brink of change, but not everyone’s ready for it—not without grabbing their piece of the pie first.
Camille Monroe knows the Heights deserves more than the scraps it’s been given. She’s here to fight, to make sure its people finally get what they’re owed.
Duke has spent years protecting the Heights, carving out a space where its community can survive and thrive. Outsiders? He doesn’t trust them—especially not ones with polished smiles and political connections.
But Camille isn’t just anyone. Her fire, her drive, the way she doesn’t back down… she’s different.
Their connection burns fast and hot, but with so much on the line, they’ll have to figure out if they’re building something together—or if desire will only complicate the fight ahead.
Their timing... might be inevitable.
The Heights is on the brink of change, but not everyone’s ready for it—not without grabbing their piece of the pie first.
Camille Monroe knows the Heights deserves more than the scraps it’s been given. She’s here to fight, to make sure its people finally get what they’re owed.
Duke has spent years protecting the Heights, carving out a space where its community can survive and thrive. Outsiders? He doesn’t trust them—especially not ones with polished smiles and political connections.
But Camille isn’t just anyone. Her fire, her drive, the way she doesn’t back down… she’s different.
Their connection burns fast and hot, but with so much on the line, they’ll have to figure out if they’re building something together—or if desire will only complicate the fight ahead.
ebook
First published November 1, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
November 26, 2024
3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Not they tryin’ to gentrify The Heights! Chiiiiiiile, the palm colored buzzards are circling our favorite fictitious suburb. They’re buyin’ up all the property and, openin’ businesses that will put them in direct competition with black owned companies that have been in The Heights for decades. Because these new businesses are offering cheaper prices, this will force some owners to shutter their companies and close their doors. But, Councilman Duke Holland said not today and not on his watch. Mahogany Heights is on the verge of annexing from Blackwood to become its own city. The referendum just has to pass a unanimous vote which, it will. But, the palm colored vultures are doing everything they can to make sure that doesn’t happen. Duke is not your typical politician. If you can even call him that. He really is for the people. He goes above and beyond to protect his constituents, and if he makes a promise, best believe he’s keeping it. Duke stays ready to stand ten toes down for his constituents and, if that means going to war with the Housing Director then so be it.
As the Director of Housing and Community Development, Camille is doing everything she can to make The Heights’ transition from suburb to city as smooth as possible. But, for Duke her, best isn’t good enough. Camille is startin’ to look real oppish and he doesn’t quite trust her. Especially when he finds out she was, inadvertently, responsible for what happened with Fabrications. The line has been drawn and, as far as Duke is concerned, Camille is on the wrong side. He’s deemed her team Stan and Olivia and, until she proves otherwise, she’s public enemy number one.
I loved Camille and Duke as a couple. The attraction between them was intense and their chemistry was off the charts but, I have to agree with some of the other reviews. The gentrification storyline overshadowed the romance. Yes there was plenty of sex but, there was zero romance on page between these characters. Also, this wasn’t the “politics” storyline I thought we were getting. When CCJ first started promoting this book, I was really excited about it because, we don’t see a lot of books written about politics from black Indie authors. But, Private Agenda gave me softball politics. I was expecting cutthroat DC type politics centered around a governor or even a congressman full of scandal but, in The Heights. What we got was watered down city politics centered around a councilman. The so called dirty politics were much cleaner than I liked. I’m sad to say, I didn’t enjoy Private Agenda as much as I thought I would. I liked it well enough but, I didn’t love it. However, CCJ still gave us a great storyline about the love of community that really stood out. While this book didn’t necessarily resonated with me, I’m still looking forward to the next installment in this series. I’m curious to see how Arya and Gavin’s story will play out.
Not they tryin’ to gentrify The Heights! Chiiiiiiile, the palm colored buzzards are circling our favorite fictitious suburb. They’re buyin’ up all the property and, openin’ businesses that will put them in direct competition with black owned companies that have been in The Heights for decades. Because these new businesses are offering cheaper prices, this will force some owners to shutter their companies and close their doors. But, Councilman Duke Holland said not today and not on his watch. Mahogany Heights is on the verge of annexing from Blackwood to become its own city. The referendum just has to pass a unanimous vote which, it will. But, the palm colored vultures are doing everything they can to make sure that doesn’t happen. Duke is not your typical politician. If you can even call him that. He really is for the people. He goes above and beyond to protect his constituents, and if he makes a promise, best believe he’s keeping it. Duke stays ready to stand ten toes down for his constituents and, if that means going to war with the Housing Director then so be it.
As the Director of Housing and Community Development, Camille is doing everything she can to make The Heights’ transition from suburb to city as smooth as possible. But, for Duke her, best isn’t good enough. Camille is startin’ to look real oppish and he doesn’t quite trust her. Especially when he finds out she was, inadvertently, responsible for what happened with Fabrications. The line has been drawn and, as far as Duke is concerned, Camille is on the wrong side. He’s deemed her team Stan and Olivia and, until she proves otherwise, she’s public enemy number one.
I loved Camille and Duke as a couple. The attraction between them was intense and their chemistry was off the charts but, I have to agree with some of the other reviews. The gentrification storyline overshadowed the romance. Yes there was plenty of sex but, there was zero romance on page between these characters. Also, this wasn’t the “politics” storyline I thought we were getting. When CCJ first started promoting this book, I was really excited about it because, we don’t see a lot of books written about politics from black Indie authors. But, Private Agenda gave me softball politics. I was expecting cutthroat DC type politics centered around a governor or even a congressman full of scandal but, in The Heights. What we got was watered down city politics centered around a councilman. The so called dirty politics were much cleaner than I liked. I’m sad to say, I didn’t enjoy Private Agenda as much as I thought I would. I liked it well enough but, I didn’t love it. However, CCJ still gave us a great storyline about the love of community that really stood out. While this book didn’t necessarily resonated with me, I’m still looking forward to the next installment in this series. I’m curious to see how Arya and Gavin’s story will play out.
November 21, 2024
If you thought you knew about Mahogany Heights, you would be almost right. This story had so many nuances that kept me coming back for more. Duke and Camille had some steamy and doggone, I see you moments. And trust and believe, this one will help you to remember why this author is the one to remember.
Read
January 25, 2025Political Chaos
There was a lot going on between Blackwood & Mahogany Heights….it took some street skill and some old favorite characters to sort this chaos out. However, to me it still feels like something was missing
There was a lot going on between Blackwood & Mahogany Heights….it took some street skill and some old favorite characters to sort this chaos out. However, to me it still feels like something was missing
December 21, 2024
OMG!! This book was soooo worth the hype! I feel this is the absolute best CCJ work ever. It educated me big time. It spoke about my favorite series bringing everyone together from THE Heights!! It was amazing. There is so much that CCJ has done that I love, but this was a masterpiece! The details, political language and practices, and the descriptive words that made me feel as though this was a movie gave me Jax & Morris Chestnut! 😂🤣 I learned so much reading this work of art! I felt the research, knowledge, wisdom, and awareness it brought to the readers! Bravo CCJ!! I am so impressed with book from beginning to end! My CCJ book Bae was in here too... Sean! 😝 A highly recommended 5-Star for certain! 193 pages of remarkable work! 🎊🎉🍾🥂
December 3, 2024
Duke and Camille find themselves on opposite sides of the fence. Duke is a councilman fighting for the incorporation of The Heights, while Camille is in charge of the housing development office involved in the incorporation process. Initially viewing each other as the enemy, these two realize they have common interests, and I don’t just mean in the bedroom.
This ended up being more about neighborhood politics than the romance between Duke and Camille. The chemistry as a couple was on fire, but unfortunately I didn’t think it was well-developed. Most of the book followed the journey to the incorporation vote along with some shady politics behind the scene. We got a few scenes with Duke and Camille but again, not much.
This probably would’ve been better as a full-length novel. I will say I enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from The Heights universe, as well as appreciating the Easter egg that is Duke’s past.
This ended up being more about neighborhood politics than the romance between Duke and Camille. The chemistry as a couple was on fire, but unfortunately I didn’t think it was well-developed. Most of the book followed the journey to the incorporation vote along with some shady politics behind the scene. We got a few scenes with Duke and Camille but again, not much.
This probably would’ve been better as a full-length novel. I will say I enjoyed seeing some familiar faces from The Heights universe, as well as appreciating the Easter egg that is Duke’s past.
Read
November 24, 2024I hesitate to shelve this as romance because there wasn’t a lot of romance going on. HOWEVER, this was a heartwarming story about community. And I felt that it was especially poignant as we’re currently in the middle of “is reading political?” debate. This book is political, through and through and I appreciated the perspectives it gave from both Duke and Camille
October 9, 2025
Camille and Duke love story
As always I love catching up with past characters from CCJ books.
But not them trying to gentrify the Heights!! The audacity!
Am I missing something or do we need a background on Duke’s previous organization???
I need to go read more of her catalog about the assassins I think to learn more.
As always I love catching up with past characters from CCJ books.
But not them trying to gentrify the Heights!! The audacity!
Am I missing something or do we need a background on Duke’s previous organization???
I need to go read more of her catalog about the assassins I think to learn more.
November 22, 2024
I absolutely LOVE being back in Mahogany Heights and I am thrilled that the community is poised to LEVEL UP! We all know that leveling up comes with major responsibilities, and not everyone has the community’s best interests at heart. However, Councilman Duke Holland is not one of them!! He isn’t afraid to go to war for his town, and he makes that known to housing Director Camille Monroe—but not in the best way. The chemistry and interest between them are evident, but coming from different sides of the fence may pause their exploration of that chemistry. Or will it? I wasn’t exactly expecting the politics surrounding gentrification when I started reading, but I’m not mad that CCJ explored it. Sometimes, the plot gets lost when corporate greed takes a seat at the table, and people need to be held accountable. The pacing isn’t bad; however, the first 35% of the book is quite slow and filled with information dumping. The beginning left me a bit confused, but in true CCJ fashion, she pulled it together, and I found myself thinking, “Ohhhhhh, okay.” That said, this book didn’t resonate with me as much as I expected. I struggled to connect with the couple, as their relationship wasn’t developed or present on the page enough. To keep it a buck, the entire secondary storyline about gentrification overshadowed the couple’s romance. Additionally, many important details were told rather than shown, making it difficult for me to connect and resulting in an anticlimactic resolution because I felt left out of the experience. Overall, it’s Mahogany Heights, and it’s CCJ, so my support won’t waver. I am excited to see what’s next for the new city, and I really hope it’s Gavin and Arya!
November 25, 2024
ARC Review
One thing about CCJ she knows how to make you fall in love with a community and the people in it. Duke and Camille's chemistry was so tense 🔥 in this story. I enjoyed every scene with them and wanted more. This was such an all-around good story that gave suspense, spice, and politics. I'm excited to see more of Mahogany Heights and the people there!
One thing about CCJ she knows how to make you fall in love with a community and the people in it. Duke and Camille's chemistry was so tense 🔥 in this story. I enjoyed every scene with them and wanted more. This was such an all-around good story that gave suspense, spice, and politics. I'm excited to see more of Mahogany Heights and the people there!
August 20, 2025
Political Love
Well this was different. I haven't read many political love stories, but I enjoyed this one.
Camille was from a powerful family, being the daughter of the Mayor and a reformed gangsta of sorts. She was doing her part in continuing the legacy as the Director of Housing in Blackwood doing her best to keep the community thriving.
Duke was the City Councilman pledging to protect the Heights. As the Heights work to gain independence Duke and Camille cross paths as they realize they need each other to fight the corporations from phasing out the small businesses.
Duke and Camille had an intense connection. One minute they were mad and disliking one another and the next minute it was bend it over a desk, spread it wide cuz I'm ready to eat type ish 🤭🤭 These two were on my type of time. I loved Duke's mysteriously moody yet sexy and fine AF self.
I felt like the storyline was slightly predictable, but it was still pleasing. I felt like the ending was lacking, I would have liked a little more meat in regards to their relationship.
Well this was different. I haven't read many political love stories, but I enjoyed this one.
Camille was from a powerful family, being the daughter of the Mayor and a reformed gangsta of sorts. She was doing her part in continuing the legacy as the Director of Housing in Blackwood doing her best to keep the community thriving.
Duke was the City Councilman pledging to protect the Heights. As the Heights work to gain independence Duke and Camille cross paths as they realize they need each other to fight the corporations from phasing out the small businesses.
Duke and Camille had an intense connection. One minute they were mad and disliking one another and the next minute it was bend it over a desk, spread it wide cuz I'm ready to eat type ish 🤭🤭 These two were on my type of time. I loved Duke's mysteriously moody yet sexy and fine AF self.
I felt like the storyline was slightly predictable, but it was still pleasing. I felt like the ending was lacking, I would have liked a little more meat in regards to their relationship.
April 8, 2026
Really good characterizations between Duke and Camille. This author really knows how to create chemistry between her characters. I liked them together. Which is good because I don't think the romance was actually the strongest part of this book.
The stroyline plot of gentrification kinda overshadowed the romance. But that wasn't too bad because it was interesting. It had some nice beats that included a little suspense and some tense moments.
I liked that we got some payoff with Hart but I still feel there are a some dangling threads. This is ripe for a follow up.
Overall a good intense read but the romance could've been beefed up more to balance the rest of the story.
The stroyline plot of gentrification kinda overshadowed the romance. But that wasn't too bad because it was interesting. It had some nice beats that included a little suspense and some tense moments.
I liked that we got some payoff with Hart but I still feel there are a some dangling threads. This is ripe for a follow up.
Overall a good intense read but the romance could've been beefed up more to balance the rest of the story.
September 23, 2025
Politics and love. Written very well. CCJ books are great reads here romances have that pull. Duke was bold and meant what he said. He was Camille’s protector.
Her ex was crazy. He got what he deserved. Enjoyed this book.
Her ex was crazy. He got what he deserved. Enjoyed this book.
March 19, 2025
Great Visit
Great visiting The Heights and Blackwood again. This was based more on politics than romance. Camille and Duke, loved their chemistry. Looking forward to more from these two communities.
Great visiting The Heights and Blackwood again. This was based more on politics than romance. Camille and Duke, loved their chemistry. Looking forward to more from these two communities.
December 7, 2024
This wasn't the best CCJ book to be honest. It was alright and that's it. My biggest issue is the lack of romance. This was not a love story. It was mostly political with some romantic elements. I knew politics would be in the book but I didn't know it would mostly be about that. Hell, it could've even been half politics and half romance but nah, the romance was literally not a focal point.
I thought Camille and Duke had chemistry but to piggyback off my previous point, their connection was pushed aside in favor of the politics plot line. The only thing these two did when they weren't at each other's throats or sometimes getting along was sex. That's it. I will still continue to read from CCJ obviously but this story was disappointing and lackluster.
I thought Camille and Duke had chemistry but to piggyback off my previous point, their connection was pushed aside in favor of the politics plot line. The only thing these two did when they weren't at each other's throats or sometimes getting along was sex. That's it. I will still continue to read from CCJ obviously but this story was disappointing and lackluster.
February 7, 2026
This book started out with a bang and had me wanting to see how we got there but then it fell a little flat for me. We see how Camille and Duke meet each other but it was largely focused on the politics surrounding the Heights and not as much focus on their romance which I would have appreciated a little more balance there. Then when they were together, to me it seemed more about sex than anything else and they still had their underlying issues with the other and him fully trusting she had the Heights best interest in mind. Once we did finally see how we got to where we were in the beginning of the book I was happy to get there but then I felt we would get more from their relationship and it never came. There was talk about his past life as well before he got to the Heights and others around him and I understood that he didn't want to tell Camille everything but I would have liked a little more background on it since it was mentioned. Overall the book was okay but it didn't quite do it for me as a romance read.
June 18, 2025
The Heights
It was good visiting Mahogany Heights again! This story was great to keep us focused on MH. I’m always happy to peek in on familiar characters and excited to start guessing what will happen with others.
Camille and Duke are fun to watch. Though that first part of the book had me a little worried! But once I figured out then saw what REALLY happened, it made sense. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
It was good visiting Mahogany Heights again! This story was great to keep us focused on MH. I’m always happy to peek in on familiar characters and excited to start guessing what will happen with others.
Camille and Duke are fun to watch. Though that first part of the book had me a little worried! But once I figured out then saw what REALLY happened, it made sense. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
May 4, 2025
Private Agenda is about a black city that some want to protect and others want to take control over. Duke Holland will do anything to protect Mahogany Heights, and he doesn’t trust anyone. But Camila is sexy and doesn’t back down from anyone… their connection burns hot and fast.
Whenever I'm in a reading slump Christina C Jones is my go and she never disappoints. Duke and Camilla's chemistry was through the roof and the sex well you'll have to read it to find it. I would recommend this novel to readers who are looking for a mix of romance, spice, and politics.
Whenever I'm in a reading slump Christina C Jones is my go and she never disappoints. Duke and Camilla's chemistry was through the roof and the sex well you'll have to read it to find it. I would recommend this novel to readers who are looking for a mix of romance, spice, and politics.
February 9, 2025
This was a cute story but felt like more needed to be said known idk
November 27, 2024
In this engaging novel, we meet Camille, the dedicated daughter of the mayor and the Director of Housing, who takes her responsibilities very seriously. Opposite her is Duke, a passionate new city councilman committed to revitalizing the community he loves. Their attraction is immediate, but Duke struggles to trust Camille due to a mistake she made in the past.
As they navigate their mutual challenges, they realize they are fighting for the same cause. This understanding allows Duke to lower his defenses, enabling Camille to showcase her true capabilities. In a heartwarming twist, Duke emerges as her knight in shining armor.
I absolutely loved this book! From the very first page, I was hooked. The narrative is brisk and filled with excitement, leaving no room for dull moments. In fact, I found myself wishing it were longer—Camille and Duke’s story is one I didn’t want to end. I give it a resounding five stars!
As they navigate their mutual challenges, they realize they are fighting for the same cause. This understanding allows Duke to lower his defenses, enabling Camille to showcase her true capabilities. In a heartwarming twist, Duke emerges as her knight in shining armor.
I absolutely loved this book! From the very first page, I was hooked. The narrative is brisk and filled with excitement, leaving no room for dull moments. In fact, I found myself wishing it were longer—Camille and Duke’s story is one I didn’t want to end. I give it a resounding five stars!
November 23, 2024
I enjoyed this story from beginning to end. It's always a good time getting back to The Heights and seeing the community come together. In this book featuring The Heights, we got a bit of political drama mixed with some potential enemies to lovers.
I loved the connection and banter between Duke and Camille. He was all about The Heights and he saw her as an opp with her job as director of housing and community development and thinking that she would allow gentrification to take over until he got to know her. Camille was all about protecting The Heights and used her position to do so. The chemistry between these two was hot and spicy and left me wanting more.
If you're a CCJ fan, I think you will enjoy this story too.
I loved the connection and banter between Duke and Camille. He was all about The Heights and he saw her as an opp with her job as director of housing and community development and thinking that she would allow gentrification to take over until he got to know her. Camille was all about protecting The Heights and used her position to do so. The chemistry between these two was hot and spicy and left me wanting more.
If you're a CCJ fan, I think you will enjoy this story too.
November 26, 2024
**ARC Review** I love a CCJ book, and Private Agenda was no different! For me this wasn’t a fast read, I wanted to sit and enjoy all parts and make sure I wasn’t missing any details!
I loved being back in Mahogany Heights! I loved being back at Urban Grind & Steeping Ground (was new but I was intrigued)
I loved the chemistry between Duke Holland and Camille Monroe! I could also tell from their very first meeting that there was something more there! And Duke Holland made me think of Councilmen differently, he had all the BDE energy! From the way he carried himself, to the way he talked…the energy was there!
I loved being back in Mahogany Heights! I loved being back at Urban Grind & Steeping Ground (was new but I was intrigued)
I loved the chemistry between Duke Holland and Camille Monroe! I could also tell from their very first meeting that there was something more there! And Duke Holland made me think of Councilmen differently, he had all the BDE energy! From the way he carried himself, to the way he talked…the energy was there!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2024
I absolutely love how CCJ has created a community for us to thrive in. This novel fits right into the family. With that said, I never thought that I would find a character that I was deeply in love with besides Brandon Blue Garrett! However, Duke Holland has stolen my heart!!! From the exposition to the resolution, I was intrigued, satisfied, and pull in to an amazing plot, community, lifelike characters, and joy because I got the Heights in my heart!
December 20, 2024
Politics and Passion
The chemistry between Camille and Duke was straight fire from their first introduction! But that wasn’t the biggest item in play as we got a firsthand view of the mechanics it took in public view and behind the scenes, to get the referendum passed that seceded “The Heights”. This was an enjoyable read that thoroughly accomplished the “agenda” CCJ set out to achieve! Arya and Gavin, y’all next huh?
The chemistry between Camille and Duke was straight fire from their first introduction! But that wasn’t the biggest item in play as we got a firsthand view of the mechanics it took in public view and behind the scenes, to get the referendum passed that seceded “The Heights”. This was an enjoyable read that thoroughly accomplished the “agenda” CCJ set out to achieve! Arya and Gavin, y’all next huh?
April 14, 2025
3.5 Stars
March 7, 2025
I needed a bit of a palette cleanser after reading all the chaos on crazy from Grangers latest paranormal urban fantasy books, and I knew anything from CCJ was going to deliver and I wasn't wrong. I'm a bit behind on CCJ's catalogue so I had plenty to choose from, but something about this cover intrigued me the most out of all the other books I need to catch up on. And THAT INTRO! Talk about being uncomfortably hot and bothered.
Camille and Duke were great. Not my favorite or most memorable of CCJ's expansive cast of characters, but I enjoyed them. I think I liked their chemistry, banter and the palpable sexual tension between them more than anything. Anytime they were in each others vicinity it was time to call in a 5 alarm blaze.
Its always fun getting to know a bit more about Blackwood and The Heights and about all the different people, companies, and culture that make it up, and now The Heights gets to be its own thing! So interested to see how that plays out.
Another 5 star CCJ book in the docket. Can't say i'm surprised! I do think I need just a LITTLE bit more of a break before I jump back into the crazy world of Maggie Grey so I may take a look at another Heights book to read next...or something else entirely new!
1. Likeable Characters: 4
2. Chemistry: 5
3. Storyline/Plot (outside of just romance): 5
4. Writing/Voice:5
5. Overall Enjoyment: 5
Camille and Duke were great. Not my favorite or most memorable of CCJ's expansive cast of characters, but I enjoyed them. I think I liked their chemistry, banter and the palpable sexual tension between them more than anything. Anytime they were in each others vicinity it was time to call in a 5 alarm blaze.
Its always fun getting to know a bit more about Blackwood and The Heights and about all the different people, companies, and culture that make it up, and now The Heights gets to be its own thing! So interested to see how that plays out.
Another 5 star CCJ book in the docket. Can't say i'm surprised! I do think I need just a LITTLE bit more of a break before I jump back into the crazy world of Maggie Grey so I may take a look at another Heights book to read next...or something else entirely new!
1. Likeable Characters: 4
2. Chemistry: 5
3. Storyline/Plot (outside of just romance): 5
4. Writing/Voice:5
5. Overall Enjoyment: 5
August 18, 2025
Conflicted Chaos
Anymore, why do I feel unsatisfied after reading a Christina C. Jones book🧐🤷🏾♀️⁉️Nevertheless, I’ve finally read “Private Agenda: Heights Chronicles” (3.5 ⭐️’s) which was nostalgic journey into some ole faithful & familiar locations like Mahogany Heights “The Heights” & Blackwood (specifically BW University), characters and businesses (Urban Grind, Pot Liquor & Scantilily. At least those were the few businesses I could recall🤭🤦🏾♀️). Yet, “Private Agenda…” was a relevant as a Chinese buffet: lots of ominous options, smells sumptuous, taste delicious & your meal consumption was obvious. However, why am I starving with an hour of eating a Chinese five course meal with dessert ⁉️ Well, that was my comparable experience revisiting Blackwood/Mahogany Heights. Unfortunately, even a fictional towns aren’t obscured from gentrification. Yet, amidst the local chaos something was still missing🤷🏾♀️⁉️…Hmmm, who the heck is Duke? Where did he come from? Who’s the “organization”? I’m conflicted 😐‼️
Anymore, why do I feel unsatisfied after reading a Christina C. Jones book🧐🤷🏾♀️⁉️Nevertheless, I’ve finally read “Private Agenda: Heights Chronicles” (3.5 ⭐️’s) which was nostalgic journey into some ole faithful & familiar locations like Mahogany Heights “The Heights” & Blackwood (specifically BW University), characters and businesses (Urban Grind, Pot Liquor & Scantilily. At least those were the few businesses I could recall🤭🤦🏾♀️). Yet, “Private Agenda…” was a relevant as a Chinese buffet: lots of ominous options, smells sumptuous, taste delicious & your meal consumption was obvious. However, why am I starving with an hour of eating a Chinese five course meal with dessert ⁉️ Well, that was my comparable experience revisiting Blackwood/Mahogany Heights. Unfortunately, even a fictional towns aren’t obscured from gentrification. Yet, amidst the local chaos something was still missing🤷🏾♀️⁉️…Hmmm, who the heck is Duke? Where did he come from? Who’s the “organization”? I’m conflicted 😐‼️
July 5, 2025
Duke + Camille!
Bay-BEEEEEE! When I tell you Private Agenda was chef’s kiss?! A little suspense, a LOT of spice—and I devoured it like a late-night snack I knew I shouldn’t have but had zero regrets about!
First off, Duke and Camille?? Whew. The tension, the passion, the “we’re-not-doing-this-but-oh-we-definitely-are” moments had me in a chokehold. I’m gonna need more—like, yesterday. Are they getting married? Having babies? A little Duke Jr. running around with a smirk and a side-eye like his daddy? I need answers, CCJ!
And Hart? Handled. Period. I was grinning so hard when he got what he deserved. But the Zenith folks? Oh no no no. They still out here living like they didn’t try to ruin lives?! I’m gonna need a full serving of revenge, served COLD. With receipts.
CCJ, I’m gonna say it louder for the people in the back: PART TWO, please and thank you. My Kindle is ready, my wine is chilled, and my group chat is waiting.
Bay-BEEEEEE! When I tell you Private Agenda was chef’s kiss?! A little suspense, a LOT of spice—and I devoured it like a late-night snack I knew I shouldn’t have but had zero regrets about!
First off, Duke and Camille?? Whew. The tension, the passion, the “we’re-not-doing-this-but-oh-we-definitely-are” moments had me in a chokehold. I’m gonna need more—like, yesterday. Are they getting married? Having babies? A little Duke Jr. running around with a smirk and a side-eye like his daddy? I need answers, CCJ!
And Hart? Handled. Period. I was grinning so hard when he got what he deserved. But the Zenith folks? Oh no no no. They still out here living like they didn’t try to ruin lives?! I’m gonna need a full serving of revenge, served COLD. With receipts.
CCJ, I’m gonna say it louder for the people in the back: PART TWO, please and thank you. My Kindle is ready, my wine is chilled, and my group chat is waiting.
August 16, 2025
Duke the chef and the suit
Duke was a sexy, bossy, secretive, vibe of a man whose passion for people, food and community were apart of his redemption. He had a dark clandestine past that he could never really shake, but he made the most out of his current life as a city councilman for the Heights and as a chef, Camille was privileged, professional, beautiful, and passionate about people in her own right. Coming from a family whose mother was a mayor and her father wasn’t known for being the most upstanding citizen. She was harder on herself and held herself to a higher standard more than anyone else when it came to her career in a city government office. She was also defiant and rebellious and hated being told what to do.
Camille always inspected the city proposals for holes and Duke refused to let the people be taken advantage of.
Trust built from interest to more.
Another player has entered the game,
I enjoyed this read!
Duke was a sexy, bossy, secretive, vibe of a man whose passion for people, food and community were apart of his redemption. He had a dark clandestine past that he could never really shake, but he made the most out of his current life as a city councilman for the Heights and as a chef, Camille was privileged, professional, beautiful, and passionate about people in her own right. Coming from a family whose mother was a mayor and her father wasn’t known for being the most upstanding citizen. She was harder on herself and held herself to a higher standard more than anyone else when it came to her career in a city government office. She was also defiant and rebellious and hated being told what to do.
Camille always inspected the city proposals for holes and Duke refused to let the people be taken advantage of.
Trust built from interest to more.
Another player has entered the game,
I enjoyed this read!
March 8, 2025
I have loved everything that I've read about "Blackwood" and the "Heights" so far.
Camille and Duke were the keys and answers to "Heights," getting the change that Duke fought for, being their own town. Preserving the integrity and history of their townspeople.
I love the cozy, small but big enough town neighborhood family feel type of life in the "Heights."
Duke and Camille's energy for each other was hot 🔥. Their sexual tension was evident upon their first encounter.
There was just enough drama that added authenticity to the idea of keeping outsiders away from taking over the "Heights."
I was curious early on what Duke's former life was like. I was surprised at how some of the business owners were connected to Duke, but I appreciated them.
Camille and Duke were the keys and answers to "Heights," getting the change that Duke fought for, being their own town. Preserving the integrity and history of their townspeople.
I love the cozy, small but big enough town neighborhood family feel type of life in the "Heights."
Duke and Camille's energy for each other was hot 🔥. Their sexual tension was evident upon their first encounter.
There was just enough drama that added authenticity to the idea of keeping outsiders away from taking over the "Heights."
I was curious early on what Duke's former life was like. I was surprised at how some of the business owners were connected to Duke, but I appreciated them.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews