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Today this blog welcomes a Red Rose Publishing author, Delores Walker. Her mainstream romance, "WHEN MARIAH SMILES" is the first book in a series.

Yvonne: Delores, can you tell us about both the book and the series?

Delores: This book is the first in my Williams Men Series. I wanted a book where you knew what the hero was thinking as well as the heroine. I remember the first book I read where the hero point of view was given. I was blown away. I always thought it would be only fair to know the hero's vunerabilities. I grew up with one point of view, the heroine. These stories follow the Williams Men; three strong completely self confident individuals. They are not afraid to pursue what they want in life. That includes the women. The first book tells the story of Edward Mason's estranged son. Travis Williams. He is forced into a marriage of convenience to save his cruiseline. The second story will focus on Jeremie. He is a complete unknown. You'll learn more about him later. The last story will be Edward's story. He finally gets the woman of his dreams... after more than thirty years.

Yvonne: Unless you look at the cover, you wouldn't guess that the novel is multi-cultural. Can you tell us about the background that your hero and heroine come from, and whether it influences the story?

Delores: The hero's background is Native American, Caucasian and African American. You will learn more about that in Edward's story. The heroine is African American. My original aim was to pair a darker hued hero with Travis' lighter skin on the cover. It was a long hard search. I wanted a the two to look lovingly into each others eyes. My cover came about after a struggle as to whether I wanted my concept(of her smile) on the cover or two people who fit the description, but not the concept.

Yvonne: Sounds awesome. Can we please have an excerpt?

Delores: Mariah has run into the "Three Divas" who tortured her in highschool. They are convinced that Mariah has settled for an old sugar daddy. They haven't had a chance to meet her handsome young hubby. When they finally meet Eva decides she want him for himself.

"You mean he can still walk? We thought you had to push him from place to place."

"Not yet. He's in fine shape if I do say so myself. I must compliment each of you ladies. You all look absolutely stunning."

"These are Neal Exclusives," Eva stated proudly. "It is almost impossible to find anything classy for women of color. For some reason designers want to keep us in fire engine red or bright yellow. But, I see you must be familiar with the line. That looks to be one of her designs you're wearing."

"Well, yes and no. It is a Neal Exclusive. However, it's one of my own designs. I am proud to be able to claim rights to your designs as well." Mariah paused. "You see I know about problems finding colors that compliment your skin tone. In fact, I have you three ladies to thank.

"Because of you, I spent a lot of time by myself in high school. So, I put it to good use sketching. After graduation I attended the Savannah School of Fashion Design. And the rest is history."

Sharica was the first to regain the power of speech. "You know, I do remember you walking around with a sketch book." Her look had changed from patronizing to awe. "Get out! Mariah, honey you have made a mint off us three."

Soon after the three are introduced to Mariah's extremely attractive husband and the games begin.....

Yvonne: I love it! And I can see why the publisher loved it too. Which reminds me. Tell us about your publisher: are they absolutely amazing and why?

Delores: I simply love Red Rose. They are amazing. My experience with them has been very positive. Wendi Felter, the owner, is very hands on.

Yvonne: I've spoken to Wendi a few times, and she's absolutely awesome. I hope "WHEN MARIAH SMILES" is the bestselling success it deserves to be. Where can we buy your book?

Delores: It can be purchased at Red Rose Publishing, Mobi Pockets and Books on Board.

Yvonne: Red Rose Publishing is the place to do your shopping this month. They're running a contest to win... a pair of black and white (!!!) diamond earrings. Check it out!