In Love and War.

by Denene Millner and Nick Chiles Dutton, March 2003 $23.95, ISBN 0-525-94709-4

The talented husband and wife writing team of Denene Millner and Nick Chiles have penned another exciting story of romance, love and scandal. In Love and War is the duo's follow-up to Love Don't Live Here Anymore, their debut novel published last year.

Their latest offering marks the arrival of Zaria Chance, a wannabe diva who frequently straddles the line between being outspoken and just downright bitchy in all of her relationships, not only with men. A tough single mom with a quick wit and serious attitude, Zaria crosses paths with her male counterpart--well almost--Kenneth Roman. Kenneth is a condescending, borderline arrogant but modestly respected educator by day and a bed-hopping backdoor playa' by night. As it turns out, Zaria's son James is a student in Kenneth's class. When James starts "acting out" and becoming unruly, Kenneth summons Zaria for a parent-teacher conference. It is a request that he eventually comes to regret, or does he? Of his initial meeting with Zaria, Kenneth observes: "Zaria Chance looked different, fresher, carrying a hint of sensuality that I had assumed didn't even exist in these comfortable split levels and colonials. Her skin was a rich caramel, her face so smooth and flawless that you instantly knew she was a woman who took care of herself."

Millner and Chiles have a knack for writing cogent dialogue and setting the scene for contemporary African-American men and women. While readers may initially find Zaria to be a cold, rigid sistah with a chip on her shoulder, she eventually grows into a more likable character. Her tough veneer and sassiness eventually give way to a softer, gentler side.

Unfortunately, the same can't be said for Kenneth. The positive role model he claims to be to his students is merely a facade and that gradually comes to light in the book. In Love and War is a delightful novel that explores relationships in a way that is accessible to black readers.

--Glenn Townes is a frequent contributor to BIBR.