Pucci Amanda Jhones

In her first novel, New York writer Pucci Amanda Jhones takes us back to the heady days of the 1980s, with the prejudices and excesses of the times all lining the pockets and massaging the reputations of the rich, famous and downright desperate. We follow the fate of Armani, a young black girl from the projects who finds herself catapulted into the world of Beverly Hills kitsch and candour.

Armani’s story has been told before by Jackie Collins and Sidney Sheldon, but never through the eyes of a black woman who lived, worked, played and loved in them there hills of Los Angeles’ county. The story is a combination of fact, fiction and fantasy, a rags to riches tale about a former international model who travels the world, enjoying success throughout her journey, until she is beaten up by her jealous boyfriend, a black unemployed actor.

There’s sex, violence, romance and love, LA-style, not to mention a well-hidden twist. Jhones describes her novel as ‘An intricate part of my life,’ and while her honesty is woundingly sharp, her eye for character and humour are also at the epicentre of the narrative at all times. It is, in effect, the semi-autobiographical account of a black woman who had the privilege for many years of tasting a large part of California’s good life.

What people have said about ‘Next Stop Beverly Hills’:

‘Armani is a Mutha amongst the greatest bunch of Muthas you’ll ever see.’
‘Jhones combines the sophistication of Beverly Hills’ 80s life perfectly with 1980s sleazy living.’

‘Hold on to your hats – Ms. Jhones is taking us on a mind-blowing ride through the Reagan years, and not all of us are coming back.’