When I started writing Crossing Lines at City Hall, I knew a few things for sure. I knew my first novel had to be a romance (obviously), and I knew I wanted to start with an enemies-to-lovers story.

Now, is it my favorite trope of all time? Not necessarily. But something about the emotional chaos of two people who clash, challenge each other, and still can’t stay away? I was hooked.

But not the kind where they’re "enemies" in chapter one and kissing by chapter two. No ma’am. I wanted that slow burn. That drawn-out tension. The back-and-forth that makes you yell at the page because why are y’all like this?! I wanted stakes. I wanted frustration. I wanted angst that simmers until it damn near boils over.

At the same time, I’ve always been drawn to stories that reflect the world we live in. Before turning to fiction full-time, I spent years working in nonprofits and on social justice initiatives, so it was important to me that this story had layers. I wanted the romance, yes—but I also wanted it to say something. I wanted readers to feel the weight of the decisions these characters make—not just in love, but in life, in power, in community.

I love a good political thriller, so the idea of setting this love story against the backdrop of city government? Perfect. The pressure, the secrets, the agendas, the ambition... all of it makes the tension hit that much harder. And I wanted to show Black folks navigating those spaces—City Hall, neighborhoods in transition, the nonprofit hustle, the executive suite, the barbershop, the church pew. All of it.

More than anything, I wanted it to feel real. The dialogue. The mess. The mistakes. The chemistry. I wanted characters who sounded like people we know. Who made choices we don’t always agree with. Who loved hard and fought harder.

I love this story. And I really love these characters.

In the next few posts, I’ll tell you more about them—Celeste, Malachi, and the city of Langston Heights, which is a whole character of its own.

That’s the origin story, boo. And trust me, it only gets hotter from here.

Crossing Lines at City Hall drops August 19—so go ahead and mark your calendar now. If you love political drama, sharp banter, and two powerful people who absolutely should not be together (but can’t keep their hands—or feelings—to themselves), this one’s for you.

Until then, come vibe with me on Instagram @chareseinlove—where Black people are centered, love is real, passionate, and always a little complicated. 💋

Until next time—

xoxo,

Charese