1. What made you want to become a writer? And why romance?

Reading is my passion! I learned to read before kindergarden and never stopped.  And I always walked around with hundreds of story ideas in my head and dreamed of making the story come to life. I chose romances specifically because I love the idea of the happy ending.  I like writing about something I feel is as important to people as breathing.  I hope I can bring to a reader that sense of wonder at something that we all so often take for granted.

2.  Tell me a little bit about PAST PROMISES?
    
Past Promises is the story of Nicole Blakely and Kevin Powell.  Former lovers reunited at the college where they first met.  Time has changed a few things
for them, and as they struggle to save the school they both love from some mysterious sabotage they also have to struggle to decide if starting over is worth the cost of surrendering pride and giving trust.
 
3.  Besides writing what do you like to do?

I work as a social worker and I love helping people.  I volunteer a lot in my community.  I enjoy movies, museums, zoos and of course reading. 

4.  Are you a full-time writer?

I am not a full-time writer, but I am ambitious enough to hope that day will come with the support of future fans.

5.  Tell us a bit about your journey to publication?

Past Promises is the first book idea I had that just would not go away.  I literally felt compelled to write this story.  But I fought that compulsion for
years.  I wrote the 1st three pages for Past Promises about 1996 and never wrote another word until 1999. At which point I shared it with a co-worker who threatened me with bodily harm if I didn't finish it because she enjoyed it so much.

6.  What's next for Jahmel West?

I am currently working on a sequel to Past Promises which continues the story of Tolleston College with Mike Dix the detective introduced in this story.  Now that I've started putting my stories down I never want to stop.

7.  Any special message for the aspiring author?

I sent Past Promises off resigned that even if I received a rejection notice I was a success.  Because at least I took the first step.  I think of how many
other readers like me love these books and have story ideas and never take that step I am saddened.  I would advise anyone to put it down on paper and share it with others.  Because there is a joy in that for you and for your readers as well.

8.  How can readers contact you?

Readers may contact me at Jahmel West, P.O. Box, 3756, East Chicago, IN 46312 or at jayl9@yahoo.com 

ROMANCE IN COLOR wishes Ms. White the greatest success!