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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.
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First published November 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 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.
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.
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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!
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.
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 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 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.
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?
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!
November 23, 2024
Private Agenda Christina C. Jones
It’s the 10th Anniversary of The Heights!!!
In Private Agenda we’re introduced to Camille and Duke as the main character. Camille is about her government business as the woman in charge of Housing and Community Development. Duke is a very zealous councilman with a very noticeable chip on his shoulder. Camille appreciates how invested Duke is to the community, his disposition evokes a level of arrogance that’s she begrudgingly finds attractive.
Camille and Duke navigate city government and the fight to defend what belongs to the community. One decision the Camille made when she first accepted her position has had a lasting impact on The Heights. When Duke is made aware of her past misstep, he makes it a point of contention. Duke is jaded by his past and the current issue at hand. Camille is for the
people just as much as he is.
As i stated in the past, I’m going to read everything that CCJ releases. I’m a stan, no caveat. I loved the dynamic between Duke and Camille. But I wouldn’t lie Duke was getting on my nerve with the Keem’s Fabrications issue. Like baby, she said she made a mistake. But I’m glad she stood ten toes down when he was talking out the side of his neck.
I would be remised if I didn’t acknowledge the bs Hartwell and Olivia were on. What a shame smh lol. Ol’ well he got what he deserved.
Oh!! And the cameos from all the characters we’ve experienced was nice. I’m looking forward to the next installations of this series. I know Gavin’s and Arya’s story is going to be so good.
#blackromance #christinacjones #privateadgenda #blacklove #citygovernment
It’s the 10th Anniversary of The Heights!!!
In Private Agenda we’re introduced to Camille and Duke as the main character. Camille is about her government business as the woman in charge of Housing and Community Development. Duke is a very zealous councilman with a very noticeable chip on his shoulder. Camille appreciates how invested Duke is to the community, his disposition evokes a level of arrogance that’s she begrudgingly finds attractive.
Camille and Duke navigate city government and the fight to defend what belongs to the community. One decision the Camille made when she first accepted her position has had a lasting impact on The Heights. When Duke is made aware of her past misstep, he makes it a point of contention. Duke is jaded by his past and the current issue at hand. Camille is for the
people just as much as he is.
As i stated in the past, I’m going to read everything that CCJ releases. I’m a stan, no caveat. I loved the dynamic between Duke and Camille. But I wouldn’t lie Duke was getting on my nerve with the Keem’s Fabrications issue. Like baby, she said she made a mistake. But I’m glad she stood ten toes down when he was talking out the side of his neck.
I would be remised if I didn’t acknowledge the bs Hartwell and Olivia were on. What a shame smh lol. Ol’ well he got what he deserved.
Oh!! And the cameos from all the characters we’ve experienced was nice. I’m looking forward to the next installations of this series. I know Gavin’s and Arya’s story is going to be so good.
#blackromance #christinacjones #privateadgenda #blacklove #citygovernment
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2024
well well well...Duke!!
I am not sure what it is about a book surrounding politics. Black men in women in politics and all surrounding a black city and black excellence. Just a lot of BLACK and I am here for it. Let's deep dive for a second. First you have Camille and the Monroes. The daughter of a female mayor and a father in power as well. A brother who is being groomed for Mayor. Herself holding a seat as director of community development. Then you have Duke. He is complex. City councilman but has this powerful presence. This take-charge mentality. "Mr. Make it happen" if you must put a name to it. I loved the chemistry and banter between him and Camille. Heartwell...The Ex who needed his ass beat...he came in way to hot. he has been gone for 3 months, and I am not sure what he expected but before he left Camille made herself clear. apparently, he did not understand. Or maybe he did and didn't care. He came in thinking that he could get Cami to change her mind, but he didn't factor in DUKE. Duke wasn't letting up and didn't even know what was happening.
CCJ has never let me down in her writing. She got the point across and didn't leave anything in the air up for grabs. The character development that she does is always top tier.
I am not sure what it is about a book surrounding politics. Black men in women in politics and all surrounding a black city and black excellence. Just a lot of BLACK and I am here for it. Let's deep dive for a second. First you have Camille and the Monroes. The daughter of a female mayor and a father in power as well. A brother who is being groomed for Mayor. Herself holding a seat as director of community development. Then you have Duke. He is complex. City councilman but has this powerful presence. This take-charge mentality. "Mr. Make it happen" if you must put a name to it. I loved the chemistry and banter between him and Camille. Heartwell...The Ex who needed his ass beat...he came in way to hot. he has been gone for 3 months, and I am not sure what he expected but before he left Camille made herself clear. apparently, he did not understand. Or maybe he did and didn't care. He came in thinking that he could get Cami to change her mind, but he didn't factor in DUKE. Duke wasn't letting up and didn't even know what was happening.
CCJ has never let me down in her writing. She got the point across and didn't leave anything in the air up for grabs. The character development that she does is always top tier.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2024
Stayed up until 2am finishing this book. 😂😭. Couldn’t put it down. As per usual with Mrs Jones.
Well done. I’m always impressed when an author does their research. And research she did. I was learning and romanced at the same time. This was enemies to lovers adjacent. Like they knew they were attracted to one another but kept getting on the other one’s nerves. When they finally connected… yea. The sparks were NOT unexpected. Love when the man is obsessed with the woman. And miss ma’am is not meek. She will say “f*** you”. In fact she did. Iykyk. She’s fabulous. She’s confident. She’s smart. And accomplished…and doing the work most of us never think about. But now I wanna go to a town hall meeting because WHAT?!
And Mr Sir, yea… he don’t play about his. Platonic or romantic. A very masculine many but not macho. A protector protecting. 👏🏽. And he has a secret past that CCJ readers are familiar with. He’s reformed. Kind of. Mostly. Just don’t mess with his people. And wasn’t shy about is attraction to Camille. I want a Duke!!
That’s the problem. I want most of *insert CCJ Heros*
Dassit. I’m about to re-read this less than a week later. Because it’s just too good.
Well done. I’m always impressed when an author does their research. And research she did. I was learning and romanced at the same time. This was enemies to lovers adjacent. Like they knew they were attracted to one another but kept getting on the other one’s nerves. When they finally connected… yea. The sparks were NOT unexpected. Love when the man is obsessed with the woman. And miss ma’am is not meek. She will say “f*** you”. In fact she did. Iykyk. She’s fabulous. She’s confident. She’s smart. And accomplished…and doing the work most of us never think about. But now I wanna go to a town hall meeting because WHAT?!
And Mr Sir, yea… he don’t play about his. Platonic or romantic. A very masculine many but not macho. A protector protecting. 👏🏽. And he has a secret past that CCJ readers are familiar with. He’s reformed. Kind of. Mostly. Just don’t mess with his people. And wasn’t shy about is attraction to Camille. I want a Duke!!
That’s the problem. I want most of *insert CCJ Heros*
Dassit. I’m about to re-read this less than a week later. Because it’s just too good.
August 18, 2025
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 😐‼️
November 30, 2024
CCJ goes back to the Heights to reset whenever she needs it, and I think she brings a lot of more flair and politics into this one. The love for the Heights is the centerpiece to this story and a nod to its longevity in the story and in the CCJverse. She stated that you would need to read about the Roses before this story and I agree. To me, the vibes is a mix of the Heights, the politics of a Mutually Beneficial Arrangement, and the Roses series of hers. And I would say most definitely some feel of MC Predators duology as well. Either way, Christina 'Can't Write a Bad Book' Jones is back giving us hits.
Full review: https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews...
Full review: https://app.thestorygraph.com/reviews...
December 23, 2024
I was hooked from the opening scene! Christina C. Jones delivers an intense, enemies-to-lovers romance filled with fiery chemistry, stubborn pride, and high-stakes politics. Set in Mahogany Heights, a neighborhood cherished by CCJ’s readers, this story offers a deeper look into the struggles and complexities of urban development, adding fresh layers to the beloved community.
The insight into the “not-so-idyllic” side of Mahogany Heights was fascinating, adding depth to the stakes Duke and Camille face. Their chemistry was undeniable, making it easy to root for them as they navigated misunderstandings, personal pride, and professional hurdles. Beyond the sparks and conflict, their journey toward understanding and collaboration was just as rewarding as their romance.
The insight into the “not-so-idyllic” side of Mahogany Heights was fascinating, adding depth to the stakes Duke and Camille face. Their chemistry was undeniable, making it easy to root for them as they navigated misunderstandings, personal pride, and professional hurdles. Beyond the sparks and conflict, their journey toward understanding and collaboration was just as rewarding as their romance.
December 4, 2024
Christina C Jones consistently brings the heat, Private agenda only confirmed that. CCJ ability to create culturally relevant fiction is unmatched. Gentrification is happening, and it was nice to see this recognized and confronted. I've felt invested in "The Heights" since its conception. I am always in awe of her creativity and the way she intertwines her stories and characters. From the moment we met Duke, I knew he was ... who he was. It was in her description, his responses and his tone. He was just desirable, I would have loved another 50-75 pages of him. I am hopefully that will we get a continuation and find out who will be "The Heights" next mayor.
November 28, 2024
An ode to Mahogany Heights....
I absolutely loved this story from the political side to the romance brewing between Camille and Duke. With me nearing the end of CCJ's catalog this new story gave me so much nostalgia. Seeing so many familiar faces from previous Heights stories. I feel like this story will resonate more with those who read alot of CCJ's catalog especially ones set in the heights. This isn't for the new comers although I'm sure they can enjoy the story as well.
Also Duke!! I called it in Chapter 8! I love that he found family, community, HOME in the heights.
I absolutely loved this story from the political side to the romance brewing between Camille and Duke. With me nearing the end of CCJ's catalog this new story gave me so much nostalgia. Seeing so many familiar faces from previous Heights stories. I feel like this story will resonate more with those who read alot of CCJ's catalog especially ones set in the heights. This isn't for the new comers although I'm sure they can enjoy the story as well.
Also Duke!! I called it in Chapter 8! I love that he found family, community, HOME in the heights.
December 15, 2024
Overall Rating: 4.5
Spice Level: 3.5
CCJ never misses. I could not wait to read this one, and I must say it did not disappoint.
This one is a slow burn, in my view (though it does start off hot and heavy and has some spicy moments throughout). It does have some romance in it, but I think the main focus was on the politics of the community. It felt like a behind the scenes view of the political world and how people are willing to lie, cheat, deceive, and use the people in the community to get their way and make money. The way CCJ took her time to break down the political atmosphere in Blackwood and The Heights, making sure to introduce all of the players and what was at stake, was great. I really enjoyed that aspect of the book.
Camille and Duke's banter and chemistry was also very well done. There was a bit of mystery as it relates to these characters, which I really enjoyed. I liked that at first we, or at least I, kind of questioned both of their motivations as it relates to what they really wanted to do for the people and the community but then it does come around and we learn a little bit more about Camille & Duke, their background, and their desires to make a difference in their community. There was also some action and a little bit of thrill (trying to figure out who the antagonists were, wondering if they were going to get away with their bad behavior and hoping they got their comeuppance at the end of the story {I wish this part was a little more fleshed out though}).
There were a few secondary characters that I wanted to see more of and learn more about (Camille's bestie, Camille's brother {Gavin}). I hope these two get their own story. And I also really want to know more about her mom and dad. They seemed so interesting. The fact that CCJ was able to create so many complex, dynamic, and interesting characters in such a short book is a testament to her talent as an author.
Overall, this was a great read. It was so different and refreshing and honestly came out at the perfect time (considering our current political climate). I loved the characters and the plot, and CCJ did an excellent job at the world-building in this book. I highly recommend it!
Spice Level: 3.5
CCJ never misses. I could not wait to read this one, and I must say it did not disappoint.
This one is a slow burn, in my view (though it does start off hot and heavy and has some spicy moments throughout). It does have some romance in it, but I think the main focus was on the politics of the community. It felt like a behind the scenes view of the political world and how people are willing to lie, cheat, deceive, and use the people in the community to get their way and make money. The way CCJ took her time to break down the political atmosphere in Blackwood and The Heights, making sure to introduce all of the players and what was at stake, was great. I really enjoyed that aspect of the book.
Camille and Duke's banter and chemistry was also very well done. There was a bit of mystery as it relates to these characters, which I really enjoyed. I liked that at first we, or at least I, kind of questioned both of their motivations as it relates to what they really wanted to do for the people and the community but then it does come around and we learn a little bit more about Camille & Duke, their background, and their desires to make a difference in their community. There was also some action and a little bit of thrill (trying to figure out who the antagonists were, wondering if they were going to get away with their bad behavior and hoping they got their comeuppance at the end of the story {I wish this part was a little more fleshed out though}).
There were a few secondary characters that I wanted to see more of and learn more about (Camille's bestie, Camille's brother {Gavin}). I hope these two get their own story. And I also really want to know more about her mom and dad. They seemed so interesting. The fact that CCJ was able to create so many complex, dynamic, and interesting characters in such a short book is a testament to her talent as an author.
Overall, this was a great read. It was so different and refreshing and honestly came out at the perfect time (considering our current political climate). I loved the characters and the plot, and CCJ did an excellent job at the world-building in this book. I highly recommend it!
November 24, 2024
I've never really thought much about the politics of The Heights and Blackwood, so I wasn't expecting this storyline at all. But it's a testament to how talented CCJ is that she can cross genres in such a way that everything is still connected (LOVED the cameos).
I would have liked to get a little more about Duke's background 👀 and I almost felt like it was going to go in a different direction with the Black Gallery. But overall I enjoyed seeing Camille and Duke's relationship progress.
I would have liked to get a little more about Duke's background 👀 and I almost felt like it was going to go in a different direction with the Black Gallery. But overall I enjoyed seeing Camille and Duke's relationship progress.
November 26, 2024
This was all about Community (Dave Chappelle voice) lol One thing about Ms. Jones, she's going to make you feel like you're a citizen in the Heights. Although to me we didn't really get a lot of politics in my opinion, we did however get a lot of love and heavy spice which to me isn't a CCJ book if we don't lol Duke and Camille were meant for each other no matter how much she wanted to deny it lol. I feel like this isn't going to be the last time we see them (well, I hope not lol)
Overall, a great book and thank you once again for my ARC copy!
Overall, a great book and thank you once again for my ARC copy!
November 26, 2024
The opening scene of this book grabs your attention right from the start. Full of big egos, drama, tension, and intrigue, the story of the Heights gaining their independence will keep you hooked. Camille and Duke’s chemistry—both personal and professional—is as entertaining as it is frustrating. But when they finally come together, the sparks fly. A thrilling, emotionally charged read that you won’t want to put down!
November 26, 2024
I cannot wait to see what else we get with this new exploration of The Heights. This book was political and messy, but quite dark and sexy. Camille is a bad ass and sure about herself, and Duke oozes BDE. I had a good time.
December 22, 2024
I love the expansion of The Heights! Duke is a councilman and Camille works for the city. Sparks fly right away and as a reader you just can’t stop reading. CCJ, you did your thang! I cannot wait for the next story!
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