Controversial Novel Spotlights NBA Groupies and Players

"Gold Diggers: A Novel," the forthcoming book by acclaimed African American-fiction author, Tracie Howard addresses two taboo subjects surrounding the world of NBA basketball: how closeted gay/alternative lifestyle preferences drove the decisions of one superstar player to protect his career, and how groupie culture, in the form of 'gold diggers,' can have far-reaching implications regarding marital relationships, dating and wealth.

In writing "Gold Diggers: A Novel," Tracie portrays the treacherous hurdles that today's highly-publicized athletes must navigate to protect secrets

that run opposite of public perceptions endorsed by the league and/or major sponsors. "It's ironic how John Amaechi's exit from the closet spurred intense media attention and visceral hate from another former NBA player. In my novel, the lead character, who happens to be an All-Star, actually kept his alternative lifestyle undercover for fear of many of these very same reactions, Tracie remarks."

"I also found the notion of a public icon who was worshipped and adored, yet alone, as a result of perpetuating the league's macho code of conduct, an intriguing one," the author admits. "In my view, the sweet spot where urban culture, celebrity status and sexuality align is extremely compelling, as each contains fascinating elements for storytelling, along with images that are easy for most readers or viewers to envision."

"The underlying point of my novel is that looks can actually be deceiving, particularly where 'gold diggers' are concerned," Tracie explains; "they play at different levels and the most successful have mastered the art in ways that deflect common societal stereotypes and prejudices."

"Gold Diggers: A Novel" is Tracie Howard's third solo release. A native of Atlanta, she is the author of two previously well-received urban lifestyle books, "Never Kiss and Tell" and "Why Sleeping Dogs Lie." Besides her work as a fiction writer, Tracie is an accomplished journalist, traveler and noted curator of fine wearable art.

"Gold Diggers: A Novel" is published by Random House and will be available in-stores on April 17th.