Watson’s first book, “$pritual Temptations,” marks his debut as an author. The novel explores the old saying that the grass is not always greener on the other side and reveals the true meaning of love. The story follows Desire, a spiritually grounded young woman in a loving relationship, who yearns for the finer things in life that her boyfriend cannot provide. She falls into the arms of Mr. Suade, who offers her the lifestyle she craves. Living a double life, Desire becomes tangled in a web of romance, love, spiritual dilemmas, lust, greed, secrets, and trust. As the story unfolds, what is kept in the dark eventually comes to light.
Born in Manhattan, NY, and raised in Tottenville, Staten Island, Watson moved to the Bronx and later to Rockland County as a young adolescent. His love for basketball led him to win championships at every level, including as a member of the Spring Valley High School New York State Champion team in the early ’80s.
Watson discovered his creative side at the College of Suny Purchase, a prestigious performing arts school. One evening, he attended a stage play featuring his college peer, actor Wesley Snipes. Watching Snipes transform into a villainous character in “Why Colored Girls Commit Suicide,” Watson caught the acting bug. He soon auditioned for a part in a student-produced play, “A Soldier’s Story,” earning a supporting role, though the play never happened. Not giving up, Watson began writing stage plays, screenplays, and musicals.
After earning his Bachelor’s degree at Suny Purchase, Watson pursued graduate studies at Lehman College, excelling as a straight-A student. His career included roles as a program director at the Martin Luther King Center and as a high school teacher, dedicating much of his life to working with young adolescents and teens. In 2010, Watson began on a new path in writing and filmmaking and hasn’t looked back since.
“$pritual Temptations” dives into the value of true love versus lust, and echoes the idea that while money can buy you things you love, it cannot buy true love. The novel reminds readers that the love of material things is fleeting, but true love lasts a lifetime.
From basketball champ to being a rising author, S.J. Watson’s journey shows his passion. His work entertains and explores social dilemmas, which make him a notable new voice in literature.
