The Scroll: Inspiration from America’s Most Revered Spiritual Leaders by Parrish Smith

The Scroll
Inspiration from America’s Most Revered Spiritual Leaders
by Parrish Smith

Life-Changing Inspiration. Unwavering Support. Scrolls have always been considered sacred, filled with prophecy and direction.

Now, America’s most beloved spiritual leaders share their own contemporary wisdom and vision through candid, uplifting, personal stories of struggle, doubt, and ultimately, blessed understanding. Featured in the award-winning documentary series The Scroll, these modern-day prophets reveal more of themselves, their journeys, and their invaluable insights than ever before.

** Featuring:

Bishop T.D. Jakes
Bishop Hezekiah Walker
Dr. Calvin Butts
Rev. Bernice King
Rev. Al Sharpton
Rev. Jesse Jackson
Bishop George C. Searight
Dr. Marvin Sapp
Dr. Jamal Bryant

Finding our life’s purpose. Creating lasting relationships. Surviving tragedy. Releasing self-destructive thoughts. These are just some of the trials faced–and joyously overcome–in these heartfelt accounts that are as healing as they are unforgettable. Each tale features illustrative Bible verses, related parables, and transformative spiritual advice. A treasure for all time, The Scroll will hold you up through life’s unexpected challenges–and lead you to life’s greatest rewards.

“If you listen, other people will help you understand your calling in life and acknowledge your destiny. But it is important to listen. God speaks through other people. God uses people to help us identify ourselves.” –Bishop T.D. Jakes

** Featuring:
Bishop Noel Jones
Dr. Jeremiah Wright, Jr.
Dr. Bill Winston
Bishop Kenneth Ulmer
Rev. Wess Morgan
Bishop Vashti McKenzie
Rev. Jeffrey Johnson
Dr. R.A. Vernon
Bishop Charles Blake
Pastor John Jenkins
Dr. Alyn Waller
Dr. DeForest Soaries, Jr.
Dr. Frederick Haynes III
Dr. Larry Macon
Dr. Perry Simmons
Rev. Corey Brooks
Rev. Stanley Dumornay

Read an Excerpt from The Scroll

CHAPTER 1

FAITH

Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.
—MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8–9

Doubt. Uncertainty. Suspicion. These are all feelings that can infiltrate our thoughts, causing us to think the worst about a situation or individual. However, faith is the light that keeps us going through the storm, through the hardship, believing that all will turn out for the best.

We need faith throughout our lives. When a stranger enters our lives, we need faith to trust that person to be who he or she claims to be, to a certain extent anyway. When an illness such as cancer or dementia enters our lives, we need faith to believe we can beat the odds and live long and productive lives.

In this chapter, you will hear different accounts about how faith was imperative to help overcome tragedy, fight injustice, achieve goals, enhance self-awareness, battle addiction, and fight the odds.

A Promise
Bishop T. D. Jakes

I think the more you learn about life, the more you recognize that you don’t know. Much like the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. l think the beginning of wisdom is recognizing that you don’t know everything.

PREACHING ABOUT THE ableness of God while his house’s lights and water were turned off was a trying season for Bishop Jakes, who was married with two children. His car had also been repossessed, so he was forced to take the bus uptown to the power company, hoping they would restore his power. The representative he spoke with was condescending, almost as if she was trying to hold this great power over him. The lady belittled and berated him, telling Bishop Jakes he was wasting his time on his appeal. Humiliation consumed him until tears streamed down his face. He left the building, and after he had walked several blocks in total frustration, the Lord spoke the sweetest words to Bishop Jakes, saying, “I will not suffer thy foot to be moved.”

God knew that Bishop Jakes was a young father and husband. At that time, he had lost his union job working for a car-manufacturing plant, and he had visions of being homeless and sleeping in a cardboard box. His church had a few people, but his salary was not enough to sustain a family. He recalls that God did not fix his situation right away, but God did not let him fall, either. Thus, Bishop Jakes learned how to live suspended, neither successful nor destroyed. He was suspended on the edge of a cliff, sustained by nothing but a promise, but sometimes a promise was all he needed to hang on. Over time the promise produced, but he learned how to hear God’s voice when he was hurting, and he learned that God is faithful, even when we are fearful.

Mustard Seed Faith
Overcoming obstacles in a time of crisis and staying calm enough to hear God’s words are easier than they sound. However, many of us have faced challenges and seasons of hardships. In an episode of Oprah’s Lifeclass, Oprah Winfrey spoke about facing obstacles and the little bit of faith needed to pull you through.

Oprah’s grandmother raised her in the church. As a young girl, every Sunday like clockwork, she would sit in the second row, taking it all in. Listening to Bible stories, she would hear that through God all things are possible. In particular she remembers hearing the story of Jesus teaching that if you have the faith of a mustard seed, you can move mountains, making anything possible. It wasn’t until years later, as an adult, when actually holding a mustard seed in her hand and seeing its minuscule size, that she truly understood the lesson. Moving forward, Oprah realized that as long as she possessed the faith of a mustard seed, she would be able to live the quality of life she manifested and could overcome obstacles.

Build Faith
Having strong faith should be important in your life. Faith is the one weapon that can get you through just about any situation, no matter how tough it may seem. Faith affects all aspects of our lives, and once it is developed, it will make us better people. Following are four ways to build faith in your life.

BELIEVE.  Faith is belief. As a believer in God, you have to acknowledge that God is the source of your faith.

PATIENCE.  Change is not always instant, happening overnight. You must have tolerance and patience to weather the storm and stay the course. True faith requires patience.

STUDY.  Read the Bible. Attend Bible study, retreats, conferences, and meetings. Study and comprehend the scripture, so you can apply it in your life. Realize that His word is true; it is not a lie.

PRAYER.  Speak to God. Develop communication, adopting a personal relationship with God. Reflect on His word, allowing it to transform you.

Lastly, do not be hesitant to seek counsel with friends, relatives, ministers, and those who you feel have a deep faith. Ask them questions about their faith: What makes it grow? Are they ever doubtful? If so, how do they overcome doubt, allowing their faith to take charge of their lives? Many people have walked in your shoes and still face similar bouts with faith and belief. Conversation is healthy.

Reflection
Sometimes we feel we need pope-like faith to overcome obstacles. However, a tiny bit of faith mixed with work on our end can move mountains.

He said to them, Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. Matthew 17:20

The Prophetic New
Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer

God says I want to do something in your life that is new The word “new” means unprecedented. It means “new in kind.” It means “brand-new”; something that’s never been done before. And if God is calling me to do something that has never been done before, how do I recognize it? I think God calls me to have faith beyond a point of reference.

A PROPHECY IS a prediction, a forecast of a situation that has not happened yet; we do not know when it will happen, but it will. Believing in prophecy can be extremely difficult because acquiring that belief is a journey that requires faith to assist with the travel. We can sometimes visualize the prophetic word or phrase, and sometimes we have no clue what the prophetic word means. This is because it is brand-new. It is so new that without God’s revelation we will not see the prophecy.

Bishop Ulmer refers to situations that will happen in our lives for the better; however, at first we will not be able to grasp the prediction because it is new. It is a prediction that we never heard anything about before in our lives. The word “new” is synonymous with “unfamiliar.” Thus, how can we accept and prepare ourselves for a prediction in our lives when it is not familiar to us? That statement sounds almost impossible. Furthermore, Bishop Ulmer speaks about how we naturally cling to ideas or concepts that are familiar to us, for which we have a point of reference. He explains that our natural tendency is to dream, see, and expect only that which is at best a variation of what we’ve already dreamed, already seen, or already expected. God wants to do something in our lives that we’ve never seen before. Therefore, we need the faith of God, the kind of faith only God has. It is not our faith. God gives us that faith to recognize the prophetic new as it surfaces in our lives. It is that prophetic new that we’ve never seen, but God says, “Trust Me to do what I have never done in your life before.”

Be Open to Change
Growth requires change. Without change we are standing still and only aging physically. I am sure many of us have desired to make a change in our lives and have asked God to help impart that change. However, remaining stuck in the same thought, the same path, the same speech, is not accepting the true nature of life. To improve our lives, to mature, to reap the benefits of what God has in store, we need to abandon the wrong way. We are all capable of change, regardless of our age. The saying “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is not true. If you desire change, you can change. Following are five techniques to help you make the change you seek.

REFLECT.  Think about or write down your likes and dislikes. You need to connect with yourself, understanding your positives and negatives.

CONFRONT OBSTACLES.  Many times people are reluctant to change because they foresee roadblocks. Figure out the challenge and define what is holding you back. Once the issue is realized, you can make a solid plan to overcome it.

STRATEGIZE.  Once you realize where you are and where you want to go, make a plan and develop a strategy for how to execute the plan.

BUILD HABITS.  Form positive habits that will allow you to stay on course. For example, if you wake up late in the morning, become an early riser. If you are easily distracted, identify the distractions and eliminate them from your daily activity or from certain days of the week.

KEEP AT IT.  Continue to work at the change every day. It will take a while before it becomes a part of you. If you find yourself reverting back to old ways, figure out where you slipped, and return to the basics to get back on track.

Look for the Unfamiliar
Change that we personally seek is easy to accept. But what happens when God has a path for us that is unfamiliar? It is difficult to embrace the kind of change that our minds cannot perceive. Bishop Ulmer spoke about remaining open so that God can implement change that is new and unprecedented in our lives. This kind of change usually catches us off guard, because we expect to head in one direction, only to be redirected in a different direction that we did not know existed.

For example, a few years ago I read a story about a middle-aged woman named Tracy who kept seeking a husband. Tracy would date often, and a few times she came close to marriage, but it never happened. The closest she came was engagement, but soon after, the relationship took a nosedive. Like clockwork, Tracy always asked God for help in finding a good man. Tracy’s process for finding Mr. Right was always the same. She had a list of qualities and physical attributes the man needed for her to be attracted to him and to take him seriously. Tracy’s list was pretty extensive and intensely precise. It was so precise, Tracy was blind to any man that did not match or look similar to anything on her list. After a string of disappointments, Tracy discussed the situation with her girlfriend Robin, and Robin’s advice was to put the list aside for a while and try something new, because Tracy’s way of finding a husband was not working. Tracy asked Robin a common question: “If I do not have my list, how will I recognize the right man for me?” Robin told Tracy to keep her eyes open and trust that she would recognize Mr. Right, even though he probably would not resemble anything on her list—and he shouldn’t, anyway. Ten years later, Tracy was happily married with a family, and the man she married was not similar to her list in many ways. However, Tracy trusted Robin’s advice and kept herself open and accessible to something new. Chances favor the open mind.

Reflection
To make a change in life, we need to accept new ideas and practice new ways, even if we do not initially recognize the change entering our lives because it is unfamiliar.

I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

Overcoming
Rev. Dr. Perry Simmons, JR.

Only one out of every three students who enters Mortis Brown as a freshman graduates in fur years. I looked to the person on my left and right and said you might as well go home now, because I am staying and graduating.

GROWING UP, DR. Simmons had a desire to go to college. He was one of eleven children, raised in the South, where his parents never made more than a nickel above minimum wage. Attending college was unthinkable under those circumstances, but Dr. Simmons was driven. During his senior year in high school, he received his first job, making fifty dollars a week working alongside a concrete finisher. After paying five dollars for carfare and five dollars in taxes, he was left with forty dollars. He then deducted ten percent from the forty dollars and donated it to anyone in his area in need. His father did not agree with his giving his money away, because he needed all he could earn for college. However, Dr. Simmons believed that you receive by giving.

Months later, Dr. Simmons arrived at Morris Brown in Atlanta. On registration day he got in line and signed up for all his classes. The last stop was paying tuition. He stood at the window and told the college representative that all he had was fifteen dollars but he wanted to attend the school. The representative gave him a note to see the president. As he entered the president’s office, he saw that hundreds of other students with the same problem stood in the office. Finally he spoke with the president, informing him that he had no money and that he had turned down basketball scholarships from other colleges because he wanted to attend a private Christian college.

The president of Morris Brown signed a sheet of paper allowing Dr. Simmons to finish registration without any money. Dr. Simmons got a job washing dishes in the dining hall and attended classes in between meals. When basketball season arrived, Dr. Simmons tried out for and made the team, but the coach notified Dr. Simmons that his budget for scholarship money was depleted. The coach was, however, able to assist him with buying books. As the first year came to a close, Dr. Simmons received special permission to take final exams because he still owed the college for the entire year’s tuition. The following year, he received a basketball scholarship and ultimately finished school. When he graduated, he had a surplus of money, the opposite of when he’d first enrolled.

(  Continues…   )

Excerpted from The Scroll by Parrish Smith. Copyright © 2014 Parrish Smith. Excerpted by permission of KENSINGTON PUBLISHING CORP. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

WATCH THE SCROLL VIDEO INTRODUCTION
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-scroll-parrish-smith/1114373226

The Scroll: Inspiration from America’s Most Revered Spiritual Leaders
Inspirational; Self Help; Religious; Christian Life Guidance
http://www.amazon.com/The-Scroll-Parrish-Smith/dp/1617734551
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-scroll-parrish-smith/1114373226

About Parrish Smith
Parrish Smith is an award winning filmmaker whose projects have appeared on numerous networks and at film festivals. As a child and the son of a preacher, he always fell asleep in church. Nevertheless, it was the storytelling used by preachers during their sermons that engaged him, making the Word relevant to everyday life. Now, he strives to create projects that make a difference in people’s lives, leaving them inspired.

The Scroll is his first film and book combination that uses the stories of wise and insightful spiritual leaders as a way to assist people as they face life’s struggles.

Parrish Smith graduate of Howard University and raised in Newark, NJ. He is a Director and Cinematographer. He has produced and shot numerous feature films, documentaries, short films, commercials, and music videos that have appeared on numerous networks, film festivals, and DVD.

A few of his broadcast and DVD credits are “Kingdom Comedy” featuring Rickey Smiley, airing on TV ONE, “Four College Kids” and “Destiny” on BET as well as “Unjust Cause” on Showtime and additional credits for UPN and BET networks. In addition, Parrish has completed work for such companies as; Gillette, Kraft, L’Oreal, and Ford just to name a few.

Recently, Parrish just completed production on a faith based feature film entitled “Nocturnal Agony” starring Lawrence Hilton Jacobs, Vernee Watson, and Bishop Hezekiah Walker. Currently, he is in production on The Scroll: The Last Chapter. Parrish continues to strive to be an effective visual communicator and trans-formative artist.

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His Until Sunrise by Joy Avery

After learning her boss has scheduled a mandatory team-building excursion, financial planner Nona Rogers panics.  What does she know about camping?  Nada.  Zilch.  Heck, she doesn’t even like picnics.  And the thought of sleeping amid bugs and wild animals knots her stomach.

No way can she risk looking like an idiot in front of her colleagues.  Taking proactive measures, she acquires the services of a guide to give her a crash-course in camping.  Seven days living off the land.  How hard could it be?  Nona swallows those words when she meets the sexy titan tasked with leading her into the wild.  Getting mauled by a bear quickly becomes the least of her worries.

Mason Tinsdale’s first love has always been oil rigging.  But a horrible accident has him doubting the job—more importantly, himself.  Seven days in the Indigo Falls wilderness is just what he needs to sort out his thoughts.  Then he meets Nona Rogers.  He’s convinced the gorgeous woman is going to be far more trouble than she’s worth.  And he’s right.  However, there’s something about the feisty vixen that makes her irresistible.

Two guarded hearts.  Seven days alone.  An attraction that can’t be denied.

Chapter One Excerpt

When her boss had called her into his office under the pretense of “good news,” Nona Rogers assumed she was on tap for a raise, a bigger office, a promotion, even. No such luck. His idea of good news had been the scheduling of a week long, mandatory, camping expedition.

Camping. She didn’t even like picnics.

Nona spurned the thought with the same amount of disdain now as she had a month ago when Mr. White had sat behind his hand-carved desk and shared the news with her.

At least he’d given her enough notice to take proactive measures. Measures that included enlisting the services of a guide to teach her the ins and outs of camping. No way would she be the only one—not to mention only female—on the company outing who couldn’t survive the wilds.

Now here she sat, in the middle of nowhere, with her hired hand, ready to tackle the great outdoors. She was still waiting to discover what was so dang great about it.

A rush of Mason Tinsdale’s oaky cologne filled her nostrils when he opened the SUV door. It also filled her with a tingling awareness. God, she loved a good smelling man.

How in the hell could she have forgotten how handsome Mason was? Time did that, dissolved the small things from your memory bank. It’d been over six years since the last time she’d seen him, at her best friend Brianna’s wedding. When she returned to civilization, she would have a few words with the woman. She could have reminded her of how fine he was.

Good-looking, brawny, and a grieving widower. A dangerous, yet safe combination.

Nona hesitated exiting the black Range Rover they’d arrived in as a mammoth-sized bird—she’d have guessed a pterodactyl, had they not been extinct—soared overhead. The creature showed minimal respect for their higher ranking on the food chain when it dropped a load the size of a dinner plate on the windshield.

Nona’s face contorted into a tight ball of disgust. Gross. She closed her eyes and shook her head. Just one more reason why she shouldn’t have been there—disrespectful wildlife.

And as if there weren’t already enough reasons: snakes, bears, rabid foxes, load-dropping pterodactyls…she could add, mouth-watering, drop-dead gorgeous man to the mix.

She and Mason hadn’t spoken much on the drive to wherever the hell they were, because she’d spent most of the four-hour ride typing away on her laptop. Yes, she was supposed to be on “vacation,” but there was work to be done. Always work to be done. She sighed inwardly. She needed a life. One that didn’t consist of all work and no play.

Somewhere between typing a memo and sending emails, she’d fallen asleep; awakening just in time to see the sign on the highway that read: Welcome to Indigo Falls. It’d been the last sign she’d seen before pulling onto a gravel road.

She’d never even heard of Indigo Falls. And she’d lived in North Carolina all of her life. The mountains in the distance told her she was far from home, and definitely out of her comfort zone.

“You okay?” Mason asked.

His velvety voice soothed her nerves. Had he been informed of her fear of the woods? If so, she would strangle her BFF. Nona flashed a half-smile. Show no fear. “Fine, yes.”

“You gonna get out?” he asked, standing inside the opened driver’s side door.

The cool breeze wafted another delicious dose of his cologne in her direction. “Ahm…yes. Yes, I am.” She gripped at the door handle like an inebriated buffoon. Mason laughed and she swore music notes floated from his mouth.

Jesus, this is going to be the longest seven days of my life.

Camping with a man who reminded her with just a sexy chuckle that she was all woman. What the hell could she have been thinking? She should have said no the second she opened her front door to see Mason there. The way her mouth had gone dry should have served as her first warning.

Sun-dried leaves and pine needles crunched under Nona’s feet when she finally stumbled from the vehicle. The crisp air was void of exhaust fumes, which was refreshing. It brought a smile to her face. She surveyed the endless mass of lush, green trees and her isolated location.

Had her best friend not assured her Mason was one hundred percent harmless—and an absolute gentleman—she would have been uncomfortable alone in the woods with a complete stranger. Well, complete if you didn’t take into consideration their brief encounter six years ago. But there was something about him she couldn’t quite put her finger on that told her she was in good hands. Maybe it had been the sight of his strong hands gripped around the steering wheel, handling the oversized vehicle with ease and precision that caused her to feel that way.

Speaking of vehicles, she hadn’t seen another one since they’d turned onto the gravel road. No people, no forest ranger, hell, not even a park sign welcoming them to the wooded area.

Nona’s cell phone screen flashed no service and alarm set in, twisting her stomach into a tight knot. How in the hell would she call for help if Big Foot attacked?

Quit being paranoid, Nona, and get yourself together.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Joy Avery.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.
 

HIS UNTIL SUNRISE Book Trailer: 
http://youtu.be/w-pVnUETcfc

PURCHASE HIS UNTIL SUNRISE
Indigo Falls Romance, Book 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Book available at:  http://amzn.to/1khOWvj
http://www.amazon.com/Until-Sunrise-Indigo-Falls-romance-ebook/dp/B00MDKREOK

Meet the Author
Joy Avery is a North Carolina native with a passion for penning contemporary romances. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, cake decorating, pretending to expertly play the piano, driving her husband insane, and playing with her sixteen-pound peek-a-poo and hundred-pound Rottweiler.

There’s plenty of emotion in a Joy Avery romance. Sometimes there are obstacles and hurdles in love, and she enjoys showing this in her novels. Her stories guide readers along the rutted roads of love, delivering them to a gratifying happily ever after.

Romance is Joy’s genre of choice, because she enjoys the experience of characters overcoming the barriers that have held them back from finding true love. Plus, she loves happily ever afters.

HIS UNTIL SUNRISE is Joy’s second novel. Her first novel, SMOKE IN THE CITI, garnered attention for having well-developed and believable characters, as well as refreshing humor. She is currently working on Book 2 of her Indigo Falls series.  Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Heart of Carolina Romance Writers.

http://www.joyavery.com
http://www.facebook.com/authorjoyavery
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http://www.goodreads.com/authorjoyavery
http://www.amazon.com/author/joyavery

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First Chapter from Taming The Female Impostor by Dr. View

“Dr. Vie’s book will inspire many to change their lifestyle and way of thinking for better health, peace of mind and harmony.” – Dr. Verma, Ayurveda Doctor,  India

Ancient secrets to creating the new woman – feminine, creative and super-conscious.  She is the healing power to change the future of our Planet Earth. Coming in August, 2014. (400 pages)
Taming The Female Impostor:  Book of Secrets to Rescuing Humanity – There is a global crisis where crime, illness and unhappiness are increasing, world-wide. The Book of Secrets uses fantasy characters to unravel shocking new insights into the root cause of the problems, and reveals the Magical Weapons of Veedinti, tools to restore peace, love and joy in your personal life, in your communities, nation and the world at large. The book is ideal for men and women, from teens to seniors seeking to improve their lives in general, and especially, in the areas of sexuality, family, food, friendships, work, relaxation and introspection.  Through The Great Rescue Game (for children) and Taming the Human Impostor (for adults), you learn how to implement the tools in daily living. Dr. Vie Academy and Dr. Vie Radio Show: “Who Do You Think You Are?” stimulate further interaction.

Book Reviews for Taming The Female Impostor

“Finally! After millenniums of spiritual teachings primarily by and geared to men, teachings which have dismissed and often denigrated feminine wisdom and power, comes Dr. Vie’s much needed guidance to help women cultivate and unleash their essential spirit. And just in time, so we wisely use balance feminine-masculine energy and co-create the healthy and harmonious evolution of humankind.”~ Ellen Eatough, MA, Extatica, San Francisco

“The first word that comes to mind is inspiring. One inspiration is Dr. Vie herself who finds her own power in her extraordinary story. Another is the wisdom passed down through the Book of Secrets that tells of the power of women. We don’t always see the power in ourselves, but here in the words of this book it can be found, and self-confidence can flourish.” ~Melissa C. Water, Author, Lady Injury, Toronto

The book integrates lifes most sought after questions into a captivating tale and journey, where the reader can explore who they are, how to find true peace and the meaning of life. Dr. Vie radiates compassion, courage and love as she inspires service to humanity and our great planet.  ~Jenni Parly, Life Coach, Los Angeles

“Every once in a while there comes along a book that captivates the mind and uplifts the soul. This is one of those books. In real life Dr. Vie has managed to maneuver through global cultures with ease and finesse.  With the same level of sophistication, she weaves a tapestry of universality in her book.  Each of us has the ability to rise above our circumstance, be it racism, sexism, environmental issues or cultural and religious biases. Each of us can choose to reject change and remain the same or board the “Life Express” and embrace the change. This winning book will appeal to a wide range of audiences globally.”  ~Lena McCalla Njee, MA, Special Education, Author, Autism Inspires.  Teacher of the Year 2011-2012, Nominee -2014 Governor of the Year Award, New Jersey

“Through new insights, Dr. Vie unravels the root cause of the female global crises, and provides powerful practical tools to restore peace, health and vitality,”  ~Dr. John Gray, Author, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, San Francisco

 “I have worked all of my professional life with high performance women, whether it was a National Team, a University varsity team or our leading entertainment company. Dr. Vie is certainly an elite, high performance person regardless of the field she chooses to endeavor in to! Dr. Vie is a pioneer in each field she chooses to focus on! I’ve loved Dr. Vie SuperFoods since 2007. Now, yet again, through this book she reveals fascinating perspectives and intuitive wisdom, making it a must read, for men also.”  ~Boris Verkhovsky, Former National Acrobatics Team Head Coach, Montreal

First Chapter from Taming The Female Impostor

Ch 1. Who Do You Think You Are?

At 29,000 feet above sea level, the tranquility of the Great Himalayas took Shakti’s breath away. She had waited twenty-five years for this day, for this moment. She had been preparing her whole life for this feeling, this state of being one with her true Self.

The tiny Indian woman, slender at 45kg (99 lbs.) and barely five feet tall, perched her body cross-legged on the bare rock surrounded by an expanse of virgin snow. She drank in the beauty around her, became mindful, lowered her eyelids, and took in a deep breath through her nostrils. She held it as she focused the energy on her third eye. In that moment of silence and super-consciousness, she was one with her true identity. She became a witness of her past life and the future.

As quickly as her rollercoaster past sped before her, the future shone so brightly that it startled her delicate frame. She opened her eyes briefly, took in another deep breath, and started to soar into the oneness of the eternal existence as she began to meditate in the home of the gods and goddesses, the land of her roots. She was blissfully peaceful.

It was only last week that she was in Australia, the country of her birth, spending a quiet Sunday afternoon with her dearest mother. Shakti had not been home for ten years. While sitting at the cozy dining table, she was startled when she said something aloud. It seemed as if the words were pouring out of her being. Once the words were spoken, she knew what was going to happen. Been there, done that! She had experienced that sensation hundreds of times before. . . .

When Shakti was a little girl growing up in Melbourne, she often experienced moments where she would say certain words without much control over what she was saying. It would seem as if someone else were saying those words through her. Strangely enough, within a few months, the very words that she had spoken, like a premonition, would turn into reality. As she grew into a young woman, the time between what she said and it happening became shorter and shorter. Eventually she learned to pay closer attention to the power of her words.

So when she casually said, “Mom, we should go to India,” Shakti’s mother was not at all surprised. Parvathi was quite used to her only child’s adventurous spirit. As her mother, Parvathi had partaken of so many of her child’s amazing experiences around the planet, and she could sense that yet another was unfolding.

Within a week, the Boeing was landing in Mumbai at Chhatrapati Shivaji airport, carrying two excited women on board. Their next adventure had begun. They were in India, among over a billion people.

As Shakti sank into deep meditation high in the Himalayas, images of women, children, babies, and the elderly from around the world entered her vision. Their wretched faces were lined with tears and wrinkled with pain. She could feel their emotions, their profound hurt, and their desperate desire for change, for hope, and for salvation. She shuddered at times as the images became stronger, closer, and clearer. Mothers were carrying babies on their hips, sobbing from hunger and dying of disease.

Young girls who had been violated by their family members were crying themselves to sleep, hoping for a miracle. There were women so overweight they could barely walk without discomfort. Some of them were in motorized chairs. Other women were skeletally thin from the ravages of anorexia. Elderly women appeared fatigued by pain, suffering with brain disease and dementia. Young females were crying out, on the brink of ending their lives because of depression. The pain ripped through Shakti’s light body as the sorrow of millions and billions of individual souls entered her, sharp as knives. Oh, dear heavens above, what pain, what sorrow, what helplessness, what desperation, what cries for help she experienced in that fleeting moment! Why was there so much suffering? Where was peace?

Just as quickly, a feeling of loving warmth enveloped her, as if a new era had dawned. She witnessed, through her third eye, women of every color smiling, arms held high as if reaching for the stars, dancing to the rhythm of their cultural music. Billions of women all around the world danced. Tears of joy streamed down Shakti’s face as she continued to observe throngs of children surrounding these women, their tiny faces filled with glee, dancing in rhythm to the sways of the blissful women.

All around the unsuspecting world, this dance emerged, this vibration of peace, this feeling of complete awareness, this sense of immense super-consciousness. These women, these creators of life, these mothers of Earth, were infusing the ground, the water, the air, and the heavens with their deep vibrational energies. Their natural healing powers were changing the fertility of their lands, the safety of their water, the purity of their air, and the power of their food. They were carving out a future of wellness, peace, happiness, and love over every inch of this planet. Around them, men were joyous as they used their amazing physical strength and lifetimes of wisdom to propel and maintain this new age in which the women and children were happy and well. Together, they became one. As one source of cosmic energy, they were changing the world. Love shone bright. Bliss descended over all. There was contentment.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Dr. Vie.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

COMING TO A BOOK STORE NEAR YOU!
Read more:  http://drvie.com/tamingthefemaleimpostorsummary

Meet the Author
Born in South Africa, with roots in India,  Dr. Sherine Vie, a former Swiss-based medical device scientist changed her career to natural health after losing her father to heart disease and helping her mother recover from breast cancer. Facing heart-breaking challenges while living solo in six countries, in 2004 Dr. Vie Research pioneered Dr. Vie SuperFoods™ in the North Americas, & since 2007 Dr. Vie SuperKids mentors children & recently, Dr. Vie Academy with Dr. Vie Radio helps all ages globally. Dr. Vie is focused on restoring the link between humanity, nature and the source of all life. Dr. Vie is a mountain-lover and has trekked many ranges including the Himalayas.

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Damon & Octavia by Mz. Robinson

Damon & Octavia
Part 7 of The Love, Lies & Lust Series
by Mz. Robinson

Damon and Octavia have been through more than most couples could ever imagine, and managed to survive it all. From love to lies to lust and even murder, they’ve seen it all. Now the only thing the two of them want is to raise their children in peace and love each other to the fullest. There’s just one problem…Damon has one last secret and this secret refuses to die.

When Octavia forges an unlikely friendship with the woman on the other side of Damon’s deception, things get hot and heavy in more ways than one. Soon, Damon is faced with the dilemma of confessing his transgression and losing the woman he loves.

When everything is put on the table and all lies are exposed, will Damon and Octavia’s marriage survive or will everything the two of them have fought so hard to maintain come crashing down, along with their love?

55 Reader Reviews – 5 Stars!
Purchase the book today:  http://goo.gl/7TJGjf
http://www.amazon.com/Damon-Octavia-Street-Chronicles-Presents-ebook/dp/B00JWF0ZN6

Meet the Author
Mz. Robinson, born in Huntsville, Alabama is a licensed Realtor and the author of the tantilizing Love, Lies, and Lust Series. Mz. Robinson is an avid reader and advocate for literacy. Although, she began writing as a child, it was not until much later in life that she began to pen short stories. After falling in love with the characters she created, she turned one of her short stories into her debut novel: What We Won’t Do For Love. After completing her first manuscript, Mz. Robinson took a break from writing to pursue other career opportunities. Five years later deciding to pursue her passion, she secured a home with G Street Chronicles. Today Mz. Robinson has ten published novels. When she’s not writing Mz. Robinson enjoys reading and shopping. She is currently working on her next title and other projects.

BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
This is book 7 of the Love, Lies and Lust series. I wanted to tie all the books together and answer any questions my readers may have before ending the series.

BPM:  Does your upbringing, prior relationships or life experiences inspire your writing?
Yes, I use my personal experiences, the lessons I was taught as a child and the errors I’ve made as an adult in each character I write. So, there is a little piece of me in every book.

BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?
Some of my books come from my vivid imagination, others come from the things that I’ve done. My books are character driven. I want my readers to know, love and hate the characters in my books. I want them to feel like they’re walking in their shoes, experiencing all their emotions and by doing so I think it further enhances their reading experience.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My current work is Damon and Octavia: The Final Lie. This book concludes the Love, Lies and Lust series and exposes all the lies and secrets told throughout the series. I consider it to be contemporary fiction and it’s available in all digital formats. It is also coming in paperback soon.

BPM:   Give us some insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
My main characters are Damon and Octavia. Damon is special because he’s what I consider a “Bad Boy in a designer suit”. He’s the kind of man that can attend the opera or feel at home at a Hip Hop concert. He’s the perfect “Book Boyfriend”. He’s a professional and a family man. He loves Octavia to the point that he’s willing to do anything to maintain the sanctity in their marriage, including committing murder. Octavia is special because she was once the queen of the phrase: “I don’t need a man”; until she met Damon and he knocked her off her feet and taught her the true meaning of love.  She’s strong and although she’s not perfect, she’s a great example of a dedicated wife and mother.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I discuss love, honesty, and forgiveness. I learned that being in love can be complicated and that two people who are truly dedicated to the survival of their relationship, can make things work even if one or both of them have done wrong.

BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
As a published author my definition of success is being able to reach and touch readers of all races and social classes. I don’t want to just entertain but it is my hope that someone will be inspired and motivated by me and my work. If I can help and touch others in some way then in my book, I’m successful.  I have several ambitions for my writing career but breaking into television and movies is definitely at the top of my list.

BPM:   What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book?
My expectations for this book are that it will leave my readers pleased with the ending of Damon and Octavia’s story. I hope and desire them to be satisfied with the entire series.  After reading this book, I would like my readers to please leave a review and tell a friend.

BPM:   Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included? 
I would like to thank each and every person who has read this series and my other work. I would also like to thank you for granting me this interview. To my readers: I love you and I’m forever grateful for your support.

BPM:   How can readers discover more about you and your work?
You can find me on Facebook at Author-Mz Robinson, on Twitter @ AuthorMzR, and follow my blog at http://www.mzrobinsonwrites.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Mz.Robinson
Twitter:   https://twitter.com/AuthorMzR

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Troublemaker by Trice Hickman

Every joy has its challenges. . .

After twenty years, childhood best friends Alexandria Thornton and PJ Brightwood have reunited–and fallen in love. Alex’s artistic nature as a spoken word artist, and PJ’s success as a talented surgeon promise a bright future. But their happiness brings unexpected complications for those they care about most. . .

A devoted wife, loving mother, and successful businesswoman, Victoria Thornton is a pillar of her suburban Atlanta community. But when her daughter, Alexandria, becomes engaged to the son of Victoria’s former lover, her past mistake threatens her orderly life. As the impending marriage reunites both families, it reignites old feelings that test all of their relationships–and all of their boundaries. . .

Praise for the Unexpected Love Series

“Trice Hickman is an amazing writer and storyteller!” –Kimberla Lawson Roby

“Looking for Trouble is a fantastic saga about family, friendship, love, status and destiny.” –RT Book Reviews

“A humorous and entertaining novel.” –Urban Reviews on Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies

“Hickman hits all the high notes in this charming modern romance where love and loyalty trump race.” –Publishers Weekly (starred review) on Unexpected Interruptions

Read an Excerpt from Troublemaker by Trice Hickman

CHAPTER 1

Allene

“You can never go wrong doin’ right” Allene Small whispered to herself as she thought about the events that were about to unfold. She couldn’t count the number of times she’d repeated those words during the nine decades she’d lived on earth, or in the six that she’d spent as a spirit waiting to reemerge into the world she’d once known.

Allene had enjoyed a rich, full life in her day. She’d experienced ups and downs, joys and heartbreak, and eventually, the calm peace that living ninety-eight years had brought her. She’d been widowed at a young age, outliving her beloved husband and eventually all her siblings and her children, as well as some nieces and nephews. She’d witnessed fiery crosses burning in the night, emblazoned with hatred and fear. She’d endured oppression before joining activists who fought for justice, civil rights, and social change. She’d watched one decade roll into the next as presidents and heads of state came and went, by consequence of elections or death. And she’d seen men ride in horses and buggies, fly planes in the sky, drive motorized vehicles along busy streets, and then miraculously walk on the moon.

Allene felt grateful and blessed to have lived long enough to experience things that many had not. She was also thankful that for as long as she could remember, she’d known an invaluable truth most couldn’t fathom—that there was life after life. The peace she’d found in that knowledge had comforted her during times of trouble.

Now as she sat in her trusty old rocking chair, surveying the colorful flowers that graced the large wrap-around porch where she’d been sitting all morning, her heart held excitement and caution about what she knew lay ahead. She took a deep breath and inhaled the sweet fragrance of the rose, azalea, and magnolia bushes flanking the front of the house. “This old place sure ’nuff has stood the test of time,” she said with a smile. “Isaiah and Henrietta would be right proud, God rest their souls.”

Allene loved being back in Nedine, South Carolina, the small town where she’d lived out the best parts of her days. She looked out as far as her eyes could see, noting that while some things had changed, so many had remained steadfastly the same. The large, white placard displaying THE SMALL PROPERTY in black calligraphy still towered at the edge of the road a few hundred feet away, announcing to visitors that they had reached the grounds of the grand residence that her son, Isaiah Small, had built from the ground up.

At the time, Isaiah’s had been one of the largest homes in Nedine as well as the two surrounding counties, and today it proudly continued to hold that distinction. This was a huge feat for a black man, then and now. After Isaiah died, Allene had moved from her tiny house a few miles up the road, and settled into the quiet comfort of living with Isaiah’s devoted widow, Henrietta, whom Allene had loved as her own daughter.

After Henrietta passed away, John, Isaiah’s and Henrietta’s son, cared for the house with great love and attention. Even though John had moved away to Raleigh, North Carolina, to start a banking empire and carry on in his father’s successful footsteps, he’d made sure to preserve the family homestead where he’d been born and had many fond memories of growing up. Several times a year, John, along with his wife, Elizabeth, and their daughter, Victoria, would return to Nedine to make sure the house was well maintained and that any necessary repairs were made.

once John’s age and declining health prevented him from making trips to his beloved hometown, he’d hired a property management company to oversee the upkeep. After his death, his daughter, Victoria, had picked up the torch and seen to it that her father’s birthplace was kept in good order. Allene was proud that her son’s legacy was still intact, along with much of the land, rental properties, and other real estate holdings that had been passed down from one generation to the next.

“They’re all gonna be here soon. Even the ones who ain’t supposed to come,” Allene said with reserve. “But then again, I reckon that ain’t such a bad thing, ’cause nothin’ happens by mistake. There’s a plan for everything, we just gotta play it out to the end.”

Allene nodded to herself as she looked up into the gray, stormy sky. It had been raining nonstop since early this morning. Heavy at times and light at others. Allene felt happy every time she heard the pitter-patter sound and the fresh smell that God’s liquid glory created in its wake. She remembered back to the days she’d spent in her tiny home, and how she’d loved to listen to the rain dance atop her roof and beat against her windows. The natural rhythm had been soothing, and always made her feel a sense of peace—as if whatever had been wrong could be made right by the water that came and washed things away.

Allene wished so badly that the rain could clear out the troubles awaiting her family. Having the gift of prophecy, she was able to see some of the challenges that were on the horizon, and the struggles her loved ones were surely going to face. She wanted to intervene by warning them of what was coming, and tell them what they needed to do in order to avoid the problems heading their way. But age, wisdom, and experience had taught her that some things couldn’t be interfered with, or manipulated. Only time, patience, and living through the situation could rectify whatever was wrong.

This was why Allene knew that choosing to do the right thing would never lead her down the wrong path. She’d been a witness to situations that had borne out that evidence time and time again, and she knew without a doubt that bad intentions could easily lead to devastating consequences. Conversely, she also knew that if one had good intentions and did what was fair and just, regardless of the circumstances, things would eventually unfold into a favorable outcome.

Allene knew that some of her family members were carrying heavy burdens, and to her disappointment, one in particular was plotting a hidden agenda, heading in the wrong direction by ignoring what was right. “Lord, help me guide Alexandria so she can help our family,” she whispered aloud, looking up into the sky. “I waited a mighty long time to come back, and now, I’m ready. I just hope they’re ready, too.”

It had been nearly a year since Allene had first made her spirit form known to anyone in the land of the living. She’d reached out to Alexandria, her great-great-granddaughter, because she’d known it was time to make contact. Alexandria was a special young woman, who, like Allene, and Allene’s great-grandmother before her, possessed the gift of prophecy.

The gift of prophecy was a precious ability that had been passed down through the generations, only by way of the female members of their family, dating back to the Akan people of Ghana, West Africa. The gift was a sacred and valued treasure that people both revered and feared within Allene’s family, as well as the outside community.

During Allene’s lifetime, her gift had allowed her to foretell events in advance of them happening. She could discern good from bad in the blink of an eye. She could sense when danger was approaching or when peace would prevail. She knew people’s thoughts without ever having to engage them in conversation. And she could accurately declare good fortune or disappointing loss for those seeking her advice on any given situation.

Now as a spirit in the land of flesh and blood, she possessed those same abilities along with the added benefit of being able to exist between two worlds. Allene walked within the supernatural realm, able to communicate with others who shared the gift, like her great-grandmother, Susan. Even though she was able to see family and friends who’d passed on, she couldn’t communicate with them unless they possessed the gift of prophecy. The living world was much the same way, only there, things were more complicated because life was still happening, unfolding in real time, which always presented challenges.

After years of patiently watching and waiting, Allene was glad when the time finally came that she could return to the world she’d once known. She was there to help Alexandria, who had struggled with her abilities for most of her life, but had now come to terms with the extraordinary gift she’d inherited. Just as Susan Jessup had been Allene’s guide on her life’s journey, it was now Allene’s turn to do the same for Alexandria.

Allene continued to watch the sky and listen to the rain fall as she thought about what was going to happen two weeks from now. She could see the blessings, as well as the trouble that was going to ensue once everyone gathered under one roof. Tempers would flare and hearts would be hurt by deception. Long-held secrets were going to be revealed, weaknesses would be exposed, and a devious plot to steal and control was going to be uncovered. Allene could also see that there would be heated moments and tension between family members and friends.

“Sometimes people just got to go through things in order to make a change,” Allene said to herself.

She knew that hearts, minds, and loyalties would be tested when her family came together for a grand celebration two weeks from now, and unfortunately, someone was going to meet their demise before the weekend came to an end.

“I’ll see you soon, baby girl,” Allene whispered into the air, sending words of love and comfort to Alexandria. “You just hang in there and know that everything’s gonna be all right.”

CHAPTER 2

Alexandria

Alexandria smiled as she stretched her long, shapely legs across PJ’s buttery-soft leather sofa. “Now that I’ve finished cooking, it’s time to relax” she said aloud. She ran her fingers through the mass of thick curls atop her head and let out a deep breath of relief, glad she was finally able to relax after her long day. She’d been busy from the moment she’d stepped out the door this morning with a coffee mug in one hand and a toasted bagel in the other. Her life had been more hectic in the last year than she could ever remember. So much was changing so fast, but with that change she felt the hope and excitement of new possibilities that lay ahead.

She breathed a sigh of relief when she thought about the fact that this Friday would be her last day of work at a job she’d dreaded since the day she’d started. She was an attorney, on the fast track, employed with the prestigious downtown Atlanta law firm of Johnson, Taylor, and Associates. Alexandria had worked there since she’d interned with them while still in law school. Now, six years later, she was ready to step out of what she’d been academically trained to do, and take hold of the direction in which her heart had always led her, which was to pursue her passion as a writer and spoken-word artist.

Alexandria thought about her promising future as she lay on her back and flipped through one of her many bridal magazines. Even though her wedding day was just one month away, and all the major details had been planned to a tee, she still couldn’t resist looking at pictures of happy couples, replete with bountiful flowers and their wedding parties in tow, all overflowing with nuptial bliss.

Alexandria smiled every time she thought about how happy she was and how much her life had significantly changed since this time last year. It seemed as though it were just yesterday that she’d broken up with her old boyfriend, Peter, and in less than twenty-four hours, fate, along with her grandma Allene’s sage advice, had led her down a completely different path to peace, understanding, and true love. Now she was engaged to PJ, her childhood best friend who’d walked into her life and changed her world.

She could still remember her grandma Allene’s words. Speak what’s in your heart. Say what it is that you desire, and watch it walk into your life.

Alexandria had heeded those words and still lived by them today. She knew that speaking what she wanted, and then trusting and believing with indomitable faith that her desires would be met in abundance, was the reason PJ was in her life. As she looked at the beautiful gowns of silk and tulle, she raised her hand in the air, as if in praise, and gave thanks for her blessings. “Amen,” she said quietly.

She was thankful for this joyous time in her life, and she planned to savor every moment because she was all too aware of the trouble that was lying in wait on the other side. Gritty realities and unpleasant truths were about to surface, not just in her life, but in the lives of family and friends whom she loved. She knew the road ahead was paved with detours, rough patches, and a few hazard signs. But she also knew she’d get through them thanks to her faith, her grandma Allene, and the amazing gift of prophecy she now embraced.

“Thank you, Grandma Allene,” Alexandria whispered. “I love you for showing me the way.”

As soon as her words floated into the air, Alexandria knew that her grandma Allene’s spirit had entered the room. Whenever she felt a warm breeze, a gentle, unexplainable tug at her arm, or smelled the unmistakably sweet scent of magnolias—which had just wafted by her nose—she knew it was her great-great-grandmother communicating with her.

Alexandria inhaled the fragrant, uniquely Southern scent that always made her feel safe and at ease. That sense of comfort and security was very different from the turmoil and strife she’d experienced in the past whenever she thought about her gift.

Communicating with spirits and having premonitions were abilities that had burdened Alexandria since she was five years old. She’d always felt different and out of place, constantly trying to navigate where she stood in a world filled with uncertainty. Her lack of grounding and understanding of her gift had made her afraid of the supernatural powers she possessed. But all that had changed last summer when Allene had contacted her for the first time.

Initially, Alexandria had been leery, and she hadn’t want any part of the mysteriously frightening world that had been haunting her since she was five years old. Many times she could remember waking up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat and covered with fear, terrified of the voices that belonged to spirits from another world that she couldn’t see or touch.

She also recognized that the ability to know what was going to happen in a given situation before it took place wasn’t always a good thing, and it had quickly become a heavy weight on her shoulders. She’d worried about things that kids her age didn’t have to deal with. She’d witnessed accidents, death, and destruction, and it had made her fearful of doing something as normal as dreaming at night because of what she might see. She’d often stood helpless with her knowledge, not knowing what to do or in whom to confide, so she’d learned how to ignore her gift and block out visions whenever they threatened her peace of mind.

But once her grandma Allene had come into her life and shown her the beauty of her gift, along with the strength and infinite possibilities it held, a new world had opened up to her for the first time.

She’d been hoping that her grandma Allene would soon make contact with her again. She missed hearing the old woman’s comforting voice and the soothing, down-home Southern accent it carried. Allene hadn’t communicated with her in nearly three months, which had initially alarmed Alexandria. But then she remembered Allene’s promise—that she’d always be there to guide and protect her. Alexandria knew she’d have to wait patiently and trust in Allene’s words, which were solid and rooted in love.

The one thing that Alexandria longed for more than anything was to talk with Allene face-to-face, instead of speaking in whispered tones through visions that always seemed to end much too quickly. During one of their talks, Alexandria had asked Allene to appear to her in the flesh.

“Grandma Allene, I want to see you. Can you come visit me?” she’d asked.

( Continued… )

 Excerpted from Troublemaker by Trice Hickman.  © 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Trice Hickman.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

About the Author
Trice Hickman is a self-proclaimed Southern girl, and award-winning, bestselling author. Trice’s love of reading and the power she recognized in the written word inspired her to become a writer. After receiving rejection letters from every agent and publisher she submitted her work to, Trice was determined to bring her stories to life. She self-published her first three novels to great success, and shortly thereafter, landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published. When she’s not busy writing and reading, Trice enjoys cooking, traveling, decorating, and meeting good people. Learn more about Trice at http://www.tricehickman.com.

Download Troublemaker (An Unexpected Love Novel)
by Trice Hickman
[Kindle Edition]
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Purchase Troublemaker (An Unexpected Love Novel)
by Trice Hickman
Link:  http://amzn.com/0758287267

Meet the Author
Trice Hickman is a self-proclaimed Southern girl, and award-winning, bestselling author. Trice’s love of reading and the power she recognized in the written word inspired her to become a writer. After receiving rejection letters from every agent and publisher she submitted her work to, Trice was determined to bring her stories to life. She self-published her first three novels to great success, and shortly thereafter, landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published. When she’s not busy writing and reading, Trice enjoys cooking, traveling, decorating, and meeting good people. Learn more about Trice at http://www.tricehickman.com.

Author website: http://www.tricehickman.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tricehickman
FB:  http://www.facebook.com/tricehickman

Unexpected Love Novel Series – More Books by Trice Hickman
* Looking for Trouble
* Unexpected Interruptions
* Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies
* Playing the Hand You’re Dealt

Books by Trice Hickman
http://www.amazon.com/Trice-Hickman/e/B002N44944
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/trice-hickman/2106303

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Intimate Conversation with Necole Ryse

Necole Ryse graduated from Towson University with Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications. Bored with life as an adult, Necole decided to follow her dreams to write fiction and she hasn’t looked back. She joined the Winslet Press family to release her first novel, THE LEGACY. She enjoys chocolate covered pretzels, Criminal Minds marathons, and all things Harry Potter.

BPM: What motivated you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
I had no choice. I’ve always been a writer and when I graduated college I felt like it wasn’t a smart career choice to venture into, so I put my dreams on hold while I worked a bunch of jobs I had no passion in. Finally, after a terrible day at work I decided to quit. I gave myself one year to make my dreams come true or I was going back to work. So, I sat down and started writing. Right now, I don’t have children, a husband or a mortgage, so it seemed like the perfect time to take a leap of faith.

BPM: Does your upbringing or life experiences inspire your writing?
Sometimes, yes. People always say write what you know. Some of my scenes in the books are from actual conversations or experiences I had, but most come from my imagination.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  
I wish I could tell you where my book ideas come from. They just happen. I will overhear something in a conversation or see someone interesting and start making a story about them. I can find inspiration anywhere. My books are both plot and character driven. Good books have both excellent plots and evolving characters and I focus on developing both at the same time.

BPM: Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My first novel, The Legacy, is a part of a trilogy called The Birthright Trilogy. It’s a “new adult fiction” book. Since the characters are in college, it isn’t really considered young adult fiction, but since new adult is such a new genre, most people classify it as young adult fiction. As of right now, the book is available on Kindle.

BPM: Give us an insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
The Legacy centers around 4 girls, Raevyn, Regina, Corrine and Andrea. Raevyn is the narrator or the story and she is one tough chick. Her father drove her cross country to his alma mater, Benjamin Wallace Fitzgerald University, the nation’s first African American Ivy League school, because she got into some trouble with the law. She had to blend in at the school because she couldn’t come back home. The problem is, Raevyn is from a low-income family, and therefore it’s hard to blend in with the posh crowd at the Black Ivy League. Her roommate, Regina Fitzgerald, yes you read that right, Fitzgerald, is the heiress to the Fitzgerald name. Her great-great-grandfather founded the school.

Regina’s friends are Andrea and Corrine. Regina is special because she, like most people, has been hurt. Just because she is the “it” girl at school doesn’t mean her own personal life isn’t falling apart. Because of her internal turmoil she comes off as a bitch to most people. But, once her layers are peeled back, over the course of the trilogy, she reveals herself. Andrea is an Ice Queen. She is the friend who tells it like it is and doesn’t care what you think.

She is my favorite character of all. She holds no cut cards and will provide the readers with a laugh or two throughout the course of the novel. Corrine is the friendly one. She becomes really close to Raevyn and the two begin to bond in places that Regina and Andrea can’t reach. She is sweet as sugar, but like most people at the Black Ivy League, she harbors a lot of secrets.

BPM: What topics are primarily discussed? Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
In the book, topics range from relationships to love, school work and lots and lots of fashion! From this book I learned that I can’t control my characters. Once I put them on the page they come to life and I have to go with the flow after that.

BPM:  What are your ambitions for your writing career?
My ultimate goal is reaching the NYT Best Seller list before 30. Success for me means touching someone’s life. If a reader says to me, “your book inspired me” or “your story made me feel like I could do anything” I have done my due diligence as a writer. Success is touching someone’s life. I want a Black girl to read my book and see herself. That’s the meaning of success

BPM: What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book?
My goal for this book is to create a conversation! I want more writers to write for African Americans in higher education. After this book I want readers to tweet me, Facebook me and beg for the next one!

BPM: Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included? How can readers discover more about you and your work?
I can be reached a number of ways: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/necoleryse; Twitter and IG: @necoleryse. I would love to hear from you! I always answer emails, too. necole.ryse@gmail.com

Website: www.necoleryse.com
Twitter and IG: @necoleryse
Facebook: www.facebook.com/necoleryse

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Intimate Conversation with Dwan Abrams

Dwan Abrams was born in Florida. She has lived in Europe and throughout the United States.

After graduating from high school with honors, she served four honorable years in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force she was recognized as Airman of the Month twice and Personnel Specialist of the Quarter. Due to her outstanding leadership skills, she was promoted early to the rank of Senior Airman.

Dwan is a graduate of the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Prior to becoming a full-time writer, Dwan worked as a manager for a Fortune 100 company. She has experience in sales, customer service, and marketing.

A true leader in the community, Dwan was a mentor at Shamrock Middle School. She has participated in Career Day and Job Shadowing Day at local Atlanta middle and high schools. As a supporter of Johnnie’s House “Feed the Hungry” campaign, she appeared in a Public Service Announcement that aired on WATC TV 57 in Atlanta. Dwan has volunteered for United Way campaigns, Adopt-a-Family, and Santa’s Helping Hands.

As a freelance editor, Dwan has edited numerous manuscripts for aspiring and established authors. Her services include: copy editing, substantive editing, ghostwriting, and manuscript critiques and evaluations.

Dwan has been featured in Booking Matters and Awareness magazines. She’s been interviewed on Atlanta Live, which aired on WATC TV 57. Due to her hard work and determination, Dwan has been inducted into the 2006 and 2010 “Who’s Who” in Black Atlanta.  She’s the former President of Faith Based Fiction Writers of Atlanta.

She’s the best-selling author of When the Fairytale Ends (Book #2 in the Married Series), My Mother’s Child (the anticipated sequel to Divorcing the Devil), Married Strangers, Divorcing the Devil (nominated for the 2008 African American Literary Awards Show), Only True Love Waits (winner of the 2007 Pen of the Writer POWER Award for Best Fiction), The Scream Within, and Favor (a short story appearing in The Midnight Clear: Stories of Love, Hope and Inspiration anthology).

Her seventh novel, For the Sake of Love, was released by Kensington in June 2014.  She currently resides in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia with her family.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My latest book, For the Sake of Love, is a love triangle. Bria finds herself having to choose between the man she loves and the man trying to woo her with his money. I consider For the Sake of Love to be an inspirational romance, and yes, it is available in both Nook and Kindle.  

BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I had first written For the Sake of Love as a novella. For years I wanted to turn it into a full length novel but didn’t know what direction I wanted to take it. Finally, I found the motivation and inspiration to craft the story.

BPM:  Does your life experiences inspire your writing?
Sometimes. It really depends on the character. I have the most fun with characters inspired by people I know.

BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  Why?
My book ideas come from all over the place. There’s no one set thing. In the past, I have spoken to people with interesting professions and made mental notes to give my characters those professions. Something as simple as that can spark the idea for a new book.

I would definitely say that my books are character driven. My characters determine the situation and direction of the story. I don’t start out with an entire premise and place the characters in the scenes.

BPM:   Give us some insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special? 
Bria is special because she’s growing as a person. She’s discovering new things about herself. Bria’s best friend, Nya, is a wild card. She’s a ride or die chick.

Nya’s husband, Chance, is somewhat of a jokester. What makes him so special is that I had a reader once tell me that she loved Chance for Bria. I had never even considered that.

Spade wants so badly to be Bria’s hero that he sometimes comes off as a zero. Readers will have to figure out whether Kerryngton is glitter or gold.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
The different love languages are primarily discussed in For the Sake of Love. I did learn that I probably would not have made the same choice as Bria.

BPM:   Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
I didn’t have to conduct an extensive amount of research for this book. Everyone involved I already knew. Nonetheless, the feedback on the men and who Bria should end up with was priceless.

BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
Success for me means doing what God has purposed for me to do. As long as I walk in my calling, I’m a success. I don’t measure success in monetary standards. Every time my publisher agrees to publish one of my books, I feel a sense of accomplishment. Whenever I receive an email from a reader telling me he or she enjoyed my book, I feel honored.

As for my ambitions, I have quite a few. I believe that as long as I keep my character intact, my gifts will make room for me. I don’t put myself into a box.

BPM:   What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book? 
I don’t believe in putting expectations on my work. I simply write the stories I feel compelled to write to the best of my abilities. As long as I feel good about my work once I’m done, I’m happy. I pray about it and release it.
I would like for my readers to post their favorable reviews on Amazon or bn.com. I also like to hear from my readers. Those emails make my day. And of course, I want my readers to tell ten more readers to go out and buy the book.

BPM:   Did you ever ask yourself, “Why am I doing this? Should I change course and maybe try to get some of the things on that list?”
No, I have never wondered if writing was the right thing for me. When I was in corporate America, that was a different story. I often thought that. I actually wrote my first two books while working in corporate America. My dream was to leave my job and write full-time. Eight years ago I was blessed to do just that. I’ve been doing what I love ever since. Currently, I teach business classes at a college twice a week. I enjoy doing that because it doesn’t require a lot of my time and doesn’t interfere with my writing.

BPM:   Do you feel as if you are a role model for other authors?
I don’t look at myself that way. I strive to be the best person that I can be, and if that inspires other people, then I’m thankful. 

BPM:   What projects are you working on at the present?
I’m always working on projects. LOL! I’ll reveal them as they start coming to pass.

BPM:   How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Readers can visit my web site http://www.dwanabrams.com. They can also connect with me on social networking sites.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dwanabrams 
FB:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dwan-Abrams/102602141758

Purchase For the Sake of Love by Dwan Abrams
http://www.amazon.com/Sake-Love-Urban-Books/dp/1601627440

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It’s Complicated by Portia Cosby

On BAN Radio with Ella Curry

Sept. 10, 2014  at 8:30 pm EST

Join us on air:   646.200.0402

“Portia Cosby has created a world of compelling characters who navigate a byzantine maze of love, secrets, lies and a whole lot of bad decisions in a page turner that will keep you up all night…just like it did me!”
—Lolita Files, Author of Child of God and sex.lies.murder.fame

Venni’s cryptic past is filled with secrets. Now that the beautiful executive is trying to settle down with the man of her dreams, she decides to come clean. She admits to a past filled with lies, heartbreak and scandal. But she soon learns that some secrets are best left buried.  Once the skeletons are out, all hell breaks loose.

In the midst of the drama, Venni’s long-time ally becomes her greatest adversary and her most hated adversary surprisingly becomes her ally. When it’s all said and done, egos and feelings are tattered and family lives are severed. Will Venni regret coming clean?

It’s Complicated is a page-turner that reaffirms we all have a backstory and perfection on the surface isn’t always what it seems.

It’s Complicated by Portia A. Cosby
Contemporary Fiction/Women’s Fiction
Target Audience: Women ages 22-50
Subject Matter: Love, lies, secrets, deception, backstory, healing
 Purchase: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1625175043

Meet the Author
Portia A. Cosby is a fresh voice in contemporary fiction. Known for her unmistakable wit and relatable characters, she is the author of Too Little, Too Late, Lesson Learned: It Is What It Is, and The Disgruntled Wives Club. The novelist/ poet/screenwriter is the owner of DISTINCT Publishing and holds a spot on Terry McMillan’s Writers Worth Reading list. An Indianapolis native, Portia currently divides her time between the greater Pittsburgh and Atlanta areas with her daughter. She is an alumna of Indiana University and Full Sail University, and is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.   Website: http://www.portiacosby.com

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Intimate Conversation with Stacey Covington-Lee

BPM: How did you get to be where you are in your life today? Who and what motivated you?
Stacey: I’ve gotten to be where I am through faith, hard work and a strong support system. I’ve always had aspirations of being an author, but it was my faith in God and my abilities that pushed me to realize this dream. I’m so fortunate to have an amazing support system in my family and friends. Their encouragement, especially that of my son and dear friend, Cassandra Smith, is all the motivation I need to continue this literary journey.

BPM: Who does your body of literary work speak to? Do you consider authors as role models?
Stacey: My work primarily speaks to women in the age range of twenty to sixty-five. My topics of love, friendship, betrayal, and overcoming are subjects that every woman can relate to on one level or another. As far as authors being role models, I would have to say no. For me, authors are entertainers with the unique ability to shine a light of awareness on very relevant social issues.  
 
BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
Stacey: I was inspired to write this book by the many stories we hear every day about women being victimized. Whether it is the local news or celebrity news, domestic violence seems to always find its way to the front page. I felt compelled to write this now because I wanted someone to find strength in this fictional story. It’s entertainment with a purpose.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Stacey: I most enjoyed writing about the courage that the most unexpected characters seem to find and draw upon at what might look like their weakest moments.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why?
Stacey: My ideas come from observation and sometimes discussions. Simply watching people, how they interact with one another, and the things they say can lead to the most interesting book ideas. Thus far, my books have all been plot-driven. I know how I want the stories to play out, but I’m often surprised at which characters step up and show strength, and which ones crumble under pressure.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
Stacey: Hate The Way He Loves Me follows the lives of the Shaw women. Sisters Zoe and Pam, and their mother, Martha. These women suffered unspeakable abuse at the hands of Martha’s husband, Otis Shaw. That is until Zoe steps up and seemingly frees them from his clutches. The ladies now have an opportunity to start over in a new city with great opportunities and even the possibility for true love. But Zoe soon discovers that instead of finding love, she has stumbled into another abusive situation. Now it will take the strength and courage of all the Shaw women to free Zoe from her abuser and break the chains of their past. Hate The Way He Loves Me is available in all digital forms including Kindle and Nook.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special?
Stacey: The main characters in Hate The Way He Loves Me are Zoe and Pam Shaw, and Ramon Martinez. Zoe has always been seen as the strong one. She’s the one that everyone looked to for courage and direction. Pam on the other hand has always been the weak, feeble one. But as this story plays out, we see their rolls slowly shifting. At first glance, Ramon appears to be a man of good character. But he has secrets of his own, ghosts from his past that negatively influence every moment of his life.
 
BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
Stacey: The under-represented group in this book would be the males that grow up in abusive homes. When it comes to abuse, women always seem to be the focus, the victims. What’s rarely discussed are the effects that observing abuse on a continuous basis has on our boys.. Boys that grow up in abusive homes are far more likely to be abusers in their adult life.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, education. spiritual practice or journey?
Stacey: What most people don’t know about me is that at one time I too was the victim of domestic violence. And I thank God every day for giving me the means and courage to remove myself from that situation.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
Stacey: What I learned in writing this book is that I was one of the lucky ones. I got out of my situation and never really worried about retaliation. However, it is when they try to leave their abuser that most domestic violence victims face the greatest danger. I was allowed to join an online domestic violence support group as part of my research. Many of the stories that I heard were horrific and I thank God that those ladies were able to survive and escape their abusers.
 
BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
Stacey: My goal, as always, is to entertain. Through the process of entertaining, I wanted to shine a light on a very real social issue. I think that I accomplished both goals with this book. It is a captivating story that makes the reader view domestic violence a little differently.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Stacey: I’m currently working on my fifth novel, Sisterly Love, and seriously considering revisiting The Knife In My Back series. Part three maybe?  

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Stacey: Please visit me on my website: http://www.staceycovingtonlee.com, where you can read excerpts from all of my novels, see what’s next for me, as well as upcoming events.   
 
 
Stacey Covington-Lee, Author
Bitter Taste Of Love
The Knife In My Back series
http://www.staceycovingtonlee.com

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Hate The Way He Loves Me by Stacey Covington-Lee

Hate The Way He Loves Me

by Stacey Covington-Lee

Love can be beautiful, but what happens when it becomes hostile? In this electrifying drama, Stacey Covington-Lee brings to light the horrors of domestic violence and the strength it takes to escape it.
 

Zoe Shaw’s childhood was anything but perfect. She, her sister, Pam, and their mother, Martha, were terrorized by Otis Shaw. The man that vowed to love and protect them had become a drunken, abusive animal that took pleasure in their suffering. But when he begins to look at Zoe with lover’s eyes, she finds herself taking drastic measures to ensure that he’ll never hurt any of the Shaw women again, or so she thinks. When word gets out that Otis may be resurfacing, Zoe, being the strongest of the trio, decides that it’s time for them to move away and start anew.

Desmond Page, Zoe’s best friend, moved away a long time ago. Having had a difficult childhood of his own, he and Zoe found love and acceptance with one another and did their best to shield each other from harm. Now that she’s looking to relocate, he suggests that she join him down south.

Their new home offered everything the Shaw women ever wanted; peace, security, opportunity and even the possibility for love. When Ramon Martinez introduced himself to Zoe, the attraction was undeniable. And despite her better judgment, she allowed herself to fall for the uncommonly handsome business owner.  What she didn’t realize was that he was also the product of an abusive home, but unlike her, he chose to follow the example set by his father. His jealousy and insecurity led him to deliver painful consequences for what he deemed inexcusable behavior. But he has clearly underestimated Zoe and the question now is which one of them will survive this battered love? 

Chapter Excerpt:  Hate The Way He Loves Me

It had been a crazy day and the customers were driving Zoe insane. Everything and everyone seemed to be tap dancing on her nerves. She’d even found herself snapping at April, something she’d immediately regretted. Her apology was an offer to buy lunch and thankfully, April accepted.

“So tell me, Zoe, what has you so upset today? You’re not acting at all like your normal self. I’ve never seen you so on edge,” April declared as she took a big bite of her cheese-burger.

“Let’s just say that I had a moment with Ramon this weekend and it left a really bad taste in my mouth. I swear I’ve been annoyed ever since Saturday.”   

“Okay, so what was the moment? I mean how bad could it have been?”

“Long story short, Desi and his partner had a bad fight Friday and Desi went home with me. He spent the night with me, slept in the bed with me and Ramon apparently had a huge problem with it. Had the nerve to try and make me promise that Desi would never sleep with me again. Can you believe that?”

April chewed slowly as she looked around the restaurant clearly avoiding eye contact with Zoe. But after a few seconds she could feel her friend’s eyes burning a hole in her, demanding a reply. “I’m sorry, Zoe, but that doesn’t sound like such an unreasonable request to me. No man wants to think of his woman sharing a bed with another man.”

“Oh come on April, we all know that Desi is gay. He has no interest in anything a woman has to offer. Especially me, I’m like a sister to him for goodness sake!”

“Girl, I’m going to need for you to calm down and lower your voice,” April instructed as she took note of the people in the small diner looking their way. “You asked me a question; you can’t get salty because you don’t like my answer. And I’m not the kind of friend that only tells you what you want to hear, I tell you how I truthfully feel. I understand that Desi is gay, but that doesn’t change the fact that he’s still a man and that is obviously threatening to Ramon.”  

“Clearly we view this differently. To me it seems as if he’s trying to control me. This is how it all starts, they convince you to give up something or someone important to you. Once you cave on one thing, they demand something else until everything and everyone you’ve ever cared about is cut out of your life and all that remains is them.” Zoe’s voice was shaky and tears danced on the rim of her eyes, threatening to fall down her cheeks.

April reached across the table and took Zoe’s hand in hers. “Honey, why are you so emotional about this and who are you referring to when you say ‘they’ and ‘them’?”

“I’m referring to men. They are all the same, they all want to control every aspect of their mate’s life and I can’t have that. I won’t allow any man to control my life,” Zoe sobbed.

“Zoe, don’t you think that you may be reading a little bit too much into his request? I mean I’ll be the first to admit that some men are controlling, but not all of them. There are so many good men out there and I’d hate for you to throw away one of those good men because of one request he made. Which, by the way, he probably only made because he’s feeling insecure in this new relationship.”    

“I don’t know April. My mother has spent her entire life either being controlled or dealing with the fall out of being controlled. I won’t be my mother; I refuse to live her life.”

“And I would never want you to live that life, but I do want you to be sure of Ramon’s intensions before throwing him away. Talk to him Zoe, and be clear with him just like you were with me. Give him the opportunity to either confirm your fears or show you that he has no desire to control you at all.”

(  Continued…  )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Stacey Covington-Lee.  Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

Hate The Way He Loves Me by Stacey Covington-Lee
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
http://www.amazon.com/Stacey-Covington-Lee/e/B00IQFO0V6

Meet the Author
Having fallen in love with literature at an early age, it only made sense for Stacey Covington-Lee to seek a career that would allow her to combine her passion for writing and her Communications education from Savannah State. During her lengthy career in the insurance industry as an Instructional and PC Trainer, Stacey wrote and developed multiple training guides and manuals for both insurance companies and local government.

It was at the encouragement of a dear friend that Stacey wrote and released her first novel, The Knife In My Back. Continuing her exploration of love, friendship, and betrayal, she has since given us The Knife In My Back 2, Bitter Taste Of Love, and her much anticipated, Hate The Way He Loves Me.

Stacey is an Atlanta native and has found great enjoyment in visiting book clubs and speaking at various events throughout the Southeast region. She loves hearing from readers and invites everyone to visit her website, http://www.staceycovingtonlee.com, follow her on Twitter (@covingtonlee) as well as Facebook (www.facebook.com/staceycovington-lee) and IG (scovingtonlee).    

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Intimate Conversation with Author Ava Bleu

 Ava Bleu lives and loves in the Midwest, countering bitter winters with smooth jazz and tasty edibles. She is the author of the contemporary romantic comedy, The Diva of Peddler’s Creek, and Glorious Sunset, an edgy inspirational romance with a time-traveling king, an angel and a love for the ages. Ava can be found in bookstores and the public library camped next to the cookbooks and/or on the town keeping an eye out for hero-material.

 
BPM:   What motivated you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I wanted to do an “epic” romance. I read so many historical romance novels based in Europe or the Scandinavian countries, it occurred to me that I had never read one that touched on Africa. This story allowed me to do that while creating a link between past and present.

BPM:   Do you ever let the book stew – leave it for months and then come back to it?
Always. Sometimes when you write you are too deep into your story to see what’s missing or what doesn’t make sense or flow. Your brain fills in the gaps because you already know what you’re trying to say. But if you step away for a while and come to it with fresh eyes you can re-introduce yourself to your own work as if you were a stranger to it. That’s when you find mistakes and smooth over the rough patches.

BPM:   Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  Why?
Like with this story, glancing down to the ground and seeing something sparkle in the sun can get your imagination working. You wonder what it is, how it got there, and why no one seems to notice it but you. And next thing you know you imagine a king trapped in a piece of jewelry. Well, maybe a normal person wouldn’t make that leap but a writer makes irrational leaps quite frequently. We end up calling them plots.

For me, it is the fleshing out of the characters that makes the true magic. My plots have never ended up being what I originally envisioned because the characters drive the story. If you force a character to do what is not consistent just to fit the plot readers notice, and they don’t like it.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What separates this story from the millions of other books on the shelves? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
Glorious Sunset  is available in Nook and Kindle, as well as paperback.  My novel is Glorious Sunset, an edgy inspirational romance. As someone who has always loved many different genres, it was exciting for me to create a hybrid of my own and I borrowed from tried-and-true models. Fables and fairytales were created to teach children themes of morality so it’s not a leap to interpret aspects of fantasy as tools of learning.  As children we were able to understand symbolism without much effort.  As grownups we forget how to translate fantasy into something we can use.  After I took ‘can’t possibly happen’ out of the equation, the question became, why wouldn’t God use time or space or angels in whatever way he sees fit?  There is a word for unexplainable occurrences … they’re called miracles!  Once I made that connection and fleshed out the characters, the story wrote itself. 

I love this book because despite the seriousness of the subject matter, this novel is as light or as heavy as the reader wants it to be. At its core Glorious Sunset is a romance but there is plenty symbolism and lots of material to generate discussion. I’m proud that I was able to develop that complexity.

BPM:   Give us an insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
Taka Olufemi is an arrogant, alpha male from way back (1600 A.D.), but he is honorable and dignified even as he struggles to be seen as a man worth loving in a time and place where his name means nothing and, according to the world, he holds no value.

Violet Jackson is an alpha female from way back but doesn’t remember her glory—only remembers pain. Self-preservation has affected her choices in life and relationships, and not always for the better.

Taka has the gift, or curse, of hindsight (a.k.a., baggage) and Violet is flying blind and only focused on the future she can envision. Ultimately, just as in life, the only possible way these two wounded souls can find each other is through the grace of God.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed in Glorious Sunset?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
Topics: trust in self, self-sacrifice for love’s sake, personal value and growth.
On my blog I’ve been pretty open about the fact that I’m learning to exercise my own faith. This novel has helped me explore issues I didn’t realize I had and identify obstacles along my own path in my relationship with God.

BPM:  What would you like for readers to take away from your writing?  How do you go about reaching new readers?
I want my readers to expect that I might do things a little differently and I might approach common themes in a different manner. I don’t do it for shock value, I truly come by it honestly; I write the way I experience and interpret life because it’s the only way I know how to do it.

BPM:  How can readers discover more about you and you work?
I am on social media but I welcome readers to subscribe to my mailing list so I can keep them informed of happenings in my career and offer bonuses and giveaways. There is also my blog where I recently introduced the “Extraordinary Love” segment. “Extraordinary Love” are the posts where I invite fellow authors to describe what extraordinary love means to them. Love can be love of self, family, romantic interest, God…the possibilities are endless and the authors have varied experiences they choose to share.  It’s an interesting and unique spin on guest blogging and I’ve gotten great feedback from readers and browsers (some who aren’t even familiar with my writing) who enjoy the personal insights into these authors. I’m very pleased with this segment.

Contact the Author
Website:             http://www.avableu.com/subscribe
Facebook:           https://www.facebook.com/ava.bleu
Twitter:               https://twitter.com/AvaBleu1

 
Purchase Glorious Sunset Today!
Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Glorious-Sunset-Urban-Books-Bleu/dp/1601626703

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Glorious Sunset by Ava Bleu

Glorious Sunset by Ava Bleu

African King Taka Olufemi has traveled over four hundred years to find the woman who holds the soul of his murdered queen and he’s a little cranky.  With a ruby brooch as his vessel, the former king is forced to grant wishes to ungrateful mortals hoping to one day find, and win, the heart of his lost love.

But it will take more than good looks, superior intelligence and an impressive pedigree to earn the love of Violet Jackson.  The ambitious interior designer doesn’t remember Taka or their history.  Love—with its inevitable heartbreak chaser—has no place in Violet’s immediate life plan.  All the handsome “genie” can do for her is pony up on the three wishes he’s promised and try not to be a pain while he’s at it.

While the arrogant king is praying for his submissive queen and the faithless object of his affection isn’t praying at all, guardian angel, Aniweto, is praying for them both.  With Ani’s help, Taka and Violet’s epic love will be rekindled and this royal couple-behaving-badly will finally earn their happily-ever-after through the grace of the Almighty.

Glorious Sunset Excerpt

1600 AD: Jaha, West Africa

The acrid smell of a burning village brought King Taka Olufemi awake, sputtering, coughing, and wincing in pain as he did so. Slowly memory returned and with it the horror. He cracked his eyelids open, his eyes immediately burning with the pebbly smoke that floated in a low-hanging cloud. Pushing himself upright from where he lay causing sharp pain to streak through his torso and the agony brought his gaze down as he sucked in his breath and jerked his hands to the source. Seeing the jagged, torn flesh of the wound in his side, the rest of his memory came and with the memory:
           
“Oh no. No, no, no . . .”
           
He forgot his pain. He fought off the sway of the world as he stood, struggling to focus and see through eyes watering with smoke and something else he didn’t dare identify. He didn’t need to see when he could smell. He was a king and warrior; battle was in his bones and death always a close companion. He smelled both here.

He looked around. Men, women, children; the massacre was complete. Beyond the hall huts and houses of his village were blackened ash. The air still burned with the stench of fire. He couldn’t understand this. In all his life he’d never seen such brutality, never known such dishonor. Still, he firmed his jaw and kept looking, turning in a wide circle until his feet staggered to a stop before his brain could even register.

His body knew how to find its heart.

He stumbled like a drunkard. When, finally, he was upon her he could only drop to his knees. Agony slammed him like lion strike in the wild. And much like a lion strike, the blow from the magnificent body was the stunner, but then the massive teeth would rip a man’s flesh from his bones as a second course. He felt the teeth ripping his beating heart from his chest and groaned with the searing pain as he admitted to the horror before him.

“Zahara.” He gathered his murdered queen in his arms and breathed into her fragrant hair, tears welling in his eyes. The wrenching that tore through him was brutal; already his body ached, keenly, from lack of her. The panic began, at that moment, threatening to strip away what was left of his sanity. With the madness came the screaming, purging to the only one who could hear him now.

“I am King Taka Olufemi!” he shouted to the universe, with all the power of his soul. “You may take my kingdom, you may take my loved ones and friends, but you may not have her! Do you hear me?”

The room crackled with audible air bubbles. The sound grew in crescendo and the hall lit with a light unseen by most people. Taka had felt this sensation many times throughout his life. It was always followed by the appearance of Aniweto. Ani was his gentle-voiced friend and confidant but he was more commonly known as his guardian angel. The legend of Taka’s easy communication with heaven had always been a blessed thing to him, but the blessings hadn’t helped him today. Knowing the power that brought Ani into his life, he knew his words went straight on high. Right or wrong, today he would use his friend to get his point to the one who had wronged him.

“I’ve given our Father my allegiance and my faith, and this is how He repays me?” he said, his voice hoarse. “My tribe, my people: all gone. And all I would have asked was that you leave one person. Just one person!” 

He fumbled for his sword, his mind automatically preparing for battle with an enemy, as if this enemy could be bested by a sword. He looked at it and realized the futility. He glared at Ani, and though his ego demanded it, his soul could not mask the pain. “I have nothing left to live for. In one afternoon you’ve taken everything from me. I’ll give you the rest to complete the package!” Quickly he moved the sword around, its tip at his own stomach, the blade slicing through the skin of his damaged hands.

“Taka!” Ani exclaimed. It was his friend’s voice but it was different today. It didn’t happen often, but occasionally his familiar guardian would change slightly. Ani’s voice would deepen in timbre and his eyes would shine with a light that told him he was visited by the Almighty through his dear Aniweto’s body. As Ani had always told him, he was merely a messenger and a vessel, a tool of the Father. But Taka sometimes forgot exactly what that meant, how close and special was his relationship and his gift to reach the Almighty so easily. Today, apparently his request was beyond Ani. Through his friend he listened to a voice felt to the depths of his soul. He knew he was not only with his guardian this day, and the Father’s next words confirmed that.

“I did not take them from you, son; evil did that. My pain is greater than you could know. But even still, even with this tragedy, you know better than to take what I have made. You are still here, Taka. All is not lost if you still have the will of a warrior.”

(  Continued…  )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Ava Bleu. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

Glorious Sunset  Reviews:

“…A creative and entertaining plot reads like mythology come to life. The effect is successful due to Bleu’s ability to paint colorful, vivid scenes with her writing style. All senses are caught up in her descriptions that take you out of being a passive reader to being engaged with strong but damaged characters.  While there is a big concept theme surrounding Glorious Sunset, the delivery of the story has an easygoing and relatable approach to plot, characters, and message. Great elements worthy of book club discussion.”
–Michelle Monkou, USA Today Happily Ever After Blog

“…There’s a delightful touch to this romance hinting of old TV sitcoms such as I Dream of Jeannie or The Ghost and Mrs. Muir. Interaction between old-fashioned Taka and lean-in career girl Violet is quite charming and carries this inspirational story that also features nifty paranormal scenes.”
–Published by permission of Library Journal

Purchase Glorious Sunset Today!
Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Glorious-Sunset-Urban-Books-Bleu/dp/1601626703
B&N:       http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/glorious-sunset-ava-bleu/1117797582

About the Author
Ava Bleu lives and loves in the Midwest, countering bitter winters with smooth jazz and tasty edibles. She is the author of the contemporary romantic comedy, The Diva of Peddler’s Creek, and Glorious Sunset, an edgy inspirational romance with a time-traveling king, an angel and a love for the ages. Ava can be found in bookstores and the public library camped next to the cookbooks and/or on the town keeping an eye out for hero-material.
 
Ava Bleu, Author of Contemporary & Edgy Inspirational Romantic Fiction
Ordinary Women, Extraordinary Love:  http://www.avableu.com
 

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VIDEO: The Scroll: Inspiration from America’s Most Revered Spiritual Leaders

Watch the Video Introduction with Parrish Smith discussing The Scroll. Watch here: http://youtu.be/SyEQR-ZQl2Q. Order your copy of The Scroll by Parrish Smith: http://amzn.com/1617734551

Life-Changing Inspiration. Unwavering Support.

THE SCROLL is a true celebration of our male leaders! I’m in bed reading this book now and I can’t believe all the world renown speakers they have in ONE book! There are several remarkable women in the book too! But, I love seeing so many MEN, as role models in one place. Read on…

The Scroll: Inspiration from America’s Most Revered Spiritual Leaders – coming August 26, 2014, view here: http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/book.aspx/29983

Scrolls have always been considered sacred, filled with prophecy and direction. Realizing that today’s spiritual leaders fill a similar role, filmmaker Parrish Smith created the award-winning documentary series The Scroll, featuring modern-day prophets revealing more of themselves, their journeys, and their invaluable insights than ever before. Now, Parrish Smith draws on the words of America’s most beloved spiritual leaders to create a guide full of contemporary wisdom that will uplift and encourage you through life’s unexpected challenges.

Finding our life’s purpose. Creating lasting relationships. Surviving tragedy. Releasing self-destructive thoughts. These are just some of the trials faced—and joyously overcome—in these heartfelt accounts that are as healing as they are unforgettable. Featuring illustrative Bible verses, related parables, and transformative advice, The Scroll is a timely resource filled with the faith and inspiration that will lead you to life’s greatest rewards.

Featuring
Bishop T.D. Jakes * Bishop Hezekiah Walker, Jr. * Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III * Rev. Bernice A. King * Rev. Al Sharpton, Jr. * Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. * Bishop George C. Searight * Dr. Marvin L. Sapp * Dr. Jamal H. Bryant * Bishop Noel Jones * Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr. * Dr. Bill Winston * Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer * Rev. Wess Morgan * Bishop Vashti M. McKenzie * Rev. Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. * Dr. R.A. Vernon * Bishop Charles E. Blake, Sr. * Rev. John K. Jenkins, Sr. * Dr. Alyn E. Waller * Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr. * Dr. Larry L. Macon, Sr. * Dr. Perry Simmons, Jr. * Rev. Corey B. Brooks, Sr. * Rev. Stanley Dumornay

About Parrish Smith
Parrish Smith is an award winning filmmaker whose projects have appeared on numerous networks and at film festivals. As a child and the son of a preacher, he always fell asleep in church. Nevertheless, it was the storytelling used by preachers during their sermons that engaged him, making the Word relevant to everyday life. Now, he strives to create projects that make a difference in people’s lives, leaving them inspired. The Scroll is his first film and book combination that uses the stories of wise and insightful spiritual leaders as a way to assist people as they face life’s struggles.

Read an Excerpt from The Scroll

CHAPTER 1

FAITH

Take the first step in faith. You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. —MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8–9

Doubt. Uncertainty. Suspicion. These are all feelings that can infiltrate our thoughts, causing us to think the worst about a situation or individual. However, faith is the light that keeps us going through the storm, through the hardship, believing that all will turn out for the best.

We need faith throughout our lives. When a stranger enters our lives, we need faith to trust that person to be who he or she claims to be, to a certain extent anyway. When an illness such as cancer or dementia enters our lives, we need faith to believe we can beat the odds and live long and productive lives.

In this chapter, you will hear different accounts about how faith was imperative to help overcome tragedy, fight injustice, achieve goals, enhance self-awareness, battle addiction, and fight the odds.

A Promise
Bishop T. D. Jakes

I think the more you learn about life, the more you recognize that you don’t know. Much like the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. l think the beginning of wisdom is recognizing that you don’t know everything.

PREACHING ABOUT THE ableness of God while his house’s lights and water were turned off was a trying season for Bishop Jakes, who was married with two children. His car had also been repossessed, so he was forced to take the bus uptown to the power company, hoping they would restore his power. The representative he spoke with was condescending, almost as if she was trying to hold this great power over him. The lady belittled and berated him, telling Bishop Jakes he was wasting his time on his appeal. Humiliation consumed him until tears streamed down his face. He left the building, and after he had walked several blocks in total frustration, the Lord spoke the sweetest words to Bishop Jakes, saying, “I will not suffer thy foot to be moved.”

God knew that Bishop Jakes was a young father and husband. At that time, he had lost his union job working for a car-manufacturing plant, and he had visions of being homeless and sleeping in a cardboard box. His church had a few people, but his salary was not enough to sustain a family. He recalls that God did not fix his situation right away, but God did not let him fall, either. Thus, Bishop Jakes learned how to live suspended, neither successful nor destroyed. He was suspended on the edge of a cliff, sustained by nothing but a promise, but sometimes a promise was all he needed to hang on. Over time the promise produced, but he learned how to hear God’s voice when he was hurting, and he learned that God is faithful, even when we are fearful.

Mustard Seed Faith
Overcoming obstacles in a time of crisis and staying calm enough to hear God’s words are easier than they sound. However, many of us have faced challenges and seasons of hardships. In an episode of Oprah’s Lifeclass, Oprah Winfrey spoke about facing obstacles and the little bit of faith needed to pull you through.

Oprah’s grandmother raised her in the church. As a young girl, every Sunday like clockwork, she would sit in the second row, taking it all in. Listening to Bible stories, she would hear that through God all things are possible. In particular she remembers hearing the story of Jesus teaching that if you have the faith of a mustard seed, you can move mountains, making anything possible. It wasn’t until years later, as an adult, when actually holding a mustard seed in her hand and seeing its minuscule size, that she truly understood the lesson. Moving forward, Oprah realized that as long as she possessed the faith of a mustard seed, she would be able to live the quality of life she manifested and could overcome obstacles.

Build Faith
Having strong faith should be important in your life. Faith is the one weapon that can get you through just about any situation, no matter how tough it may seem. Faith affects all aspects of our lives, and once it is developed, it will make us better people. Following are four ways to build faith in your life.

BELIEVE.  Faith is belief. As a believer in God, you have to acknowledge that God is the source of your faith.

PATIENCE.  Change is not always instant, happening overnight. You must have tolerance and patience to weather the storm and stay the course. True faith requires patience.

STUDY.  Read the Bible. Attend Bible study, retreats, conferences, and meetings. Study and comprehend the scripture, so you can apply it in your life. Realize that His word is true; it is not a lie.

PRAYER.  Speak to God. Develop communication, adopting a personal relationship with God. Reflect on His word, allowing it to transform you.

Lastly, do not be hesitant to seek counsel with friends, relatives, ministers, and those who you feel have a deep faith. Ask them questions about their faith: What makes it grow? Are they ever doubtful? If so, how do they overcome doubt, allowing their faith to take charge of their lives? Many people have walked in your shoes and still face similar bouts with faith and belief. Conversation is healthy.

Reflection
Sometimes we feel we need pope-like faith to overcome obstacles. However, a tiny bit of faith mixed with work on our end can move mountains.

He said to them, Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. Matthew 17:20

The Prophetic New
Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer

God says I want to do something in your life that is new The word “new” means unprecedented. It means “new in kind.” It means “brand-new”; something that’s never been done before. And if God is calling me to do something that has never been done before, how do I recognize it? I think God calls me to have faith beyond a point of reference.

A PROPHECY IS a prediction, a forecast of a situation that has not happened yet; we do not know when it will happen, but it will. Believing in prophecy can be extremely difficult because acquiring that belief is a journey that requires faith to assist with the travel. We can sometimes visualize the prophetic word or phrase, and sometimes we have no clue what the prophetic word means. This is because it is brand-new. It is so new that without God’s revelation we will not see the prophecy.

Bishop Ulmer refers to situations that will happen in our lives for the better; however, at first we will not be able to grasp the prediction because it is new. It is a prediction that we never heard anything about before in our lives. The word “new” is synonymous with “unfamiliar.” Thus, how can we accept and prepare ourselves for a prediction in our lives when it is not familiar to us? That statement sounds almost impossible. Furthermore, Bishop Ulmer speaks about how we naturally cling to ideas or concepts that are familiar to us, for which we have a point of reference. He explains that our natural tendency is to dream, see, and expect only that which is at best a variation of what we’ve already dreamed, already seen, or already expected. God wants to do something in our lives that we’ve never seen before. Therefore, we need the faith of God, the kind of faith only God has. It is not our faith. God gives us that faith to recognize the prophetic new as it surfaces in our lives. It is that prophetic new that we’ve never seen, but God says, “Trust Me to do what I have never done in your life before.”

Be Open to Change
Growth requires change. Without change we are standing still and only aging physically. I am sure many of us have desired to make a change in our lives and have asked God to help impart that change. However, remaining stuck in the same thought, the same path, the same speech, is not accepting the true nature of life. To improve our lives, to mature, to reap the benefits of what God has in store, we need to abandon the wrong way. We are all capable of change, regardless of our age. The saying “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is not true. If you desire change, you can change. Following are five techniques to help you make the change you seek.

REFLECT.  Think about or write down your likes and dislikes. You need to connect with yourself, understanding your positives and negatives.

CONFRONT OBSTACLES.  Many times people are reluctant to change because they foresee roadblocks. Figure out the challenge and define what is holding you back. Once the issue is realized, you can make a solid plan to overcome it.

STRATEGIZE.  Once you realize where you are and where you want to go, make a plan and develop a strategy for how to execute the plan.

BUILD HABITS.  Form positive habits that will allow you to stay on course. For example, if you wake up late in the morning, become an early riser. If you are easily distracted, identify the distractions and eliminate them from your daily activity or from certain days of the week.

KEEP AT IT.  Continue to work at the change every day. It will take a while before it becomes a part of you. If you find yourself reverting back to old ways, figure out where you slipped, and return to the basics to get back on track.

Look for the Unfamiliar
Change that we personally seek is easy to accept. But what happens when God has a path for us that is unfamiliar? It is difficult to embrace the kind of change that our minds cannot perceive. Bishop Ulmer spoke about remaining open so that God can implement change that is new and unprecedented in our lives. This kind of change usually catches us off guard, because we expect to head in one direction, only to be redirected in a different direction that we did not know existed.

For example, a few years ago I read a story about a middle-aged woman named Tracy who kept seeking a husband. Tracy would date often, and a few times she came close to marriage, but it never happened. The closest she came was engagement, but soon after, the relationship took a nosedive. Like clockwork, Tracy always asked God for help in finding a good man. Tracy’s process for finding Mr. Right was always the same. She had a list of qualities and physical attributes the man needed for her to be attracted to him and to take him seriously. Tracy’s list was pretty extensive and intensely precise. It was so precise, Tracy was blind to any man that did not match or look similar to anything on her list. After a string of disappointments, Tracy discussed the situation with her girlfriend Robin, and Robin’s advice was to put the list aside for a while and try something new, because Tracy’s way of finding a husband was not working. Tracy asked Robin a common question: “If I do not have my list, how will I recognize the right man for me?” Robin told Tracy to keep her eyes open and trust that she would recognize Mr. Right, even though he probably would not resemble anything on her list—and he shouldn’t, anyway. Ten years later, Tracy was happily married with a family, and the man she married was not similar to her list in many ways. However, Tracy trusted Robin’s advice and kept herself open and accessible to something new. Chances favor the open mind.

Reflection
To make a change in life, we need to accept new ideas and practice new ways, even if we do not initially recognize the change entering our lives because it is unfamiliar. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

Overcoming
Rev. Dr. Perry Simmons, JR.

Only one out of every three students who enters Mortis Brown as a freshman graduates in fur years. I looked to the person on my left and right and said you might as well go home now, because I am staying and graduating.

GROWING UP, DR. Simmons had a desire to go to college. He was one of eleven children, raised in the South, where his parents never made more than a nickel above minimum wage. Attending college was unthinkable under those circumstances, but Dr. Simmons was driven. During his senior year in high school, he received his first job, making fifty dollars a week working alongside a concrete finisher. After paying five dollars for carfare and five dollars in taxes, he was left with forty dollars. He then deducted ten percent from the forty dollars and donated it to anyone in his area in need. His father did not agree with his giving his money away, because he needed all he could earn for college. However, Dr. Simmons believed that you receive by giving.

Months later, Dr. Simmons arrived at Morris Brown in Atlanta. On registration day he got in line and signed up for all his classes. The last stop was paying tuition. He stood at the window and told the college representative that all he had was fifteen dollars but he wanted to attend the school. The representative gave him a note to see the president. As he entered the president’s office, he saw that hundreds of other students with the same problem stood in the office. Finally he spoke with the president, informing him that he had no money and that he had turned down basketball scholarships from other colleges because he wanted to attend a private Christian college.

The president of Morris Brown signed a sheet of paper allowing Dr. Simmons to finish registration without any money. Dr. Simmons got a job washing dishes in the dining hall and attended classes in between meals. When basketball season arrived, Dr. Simmons tried out for and made the team, but the coach notified Dr. Simmons that his budget for scholarship money was depleted. The coach was, however, able to assist him with buying books. As the first year came to a close, Dr. Simmons received special permission to take final exams because he still owed the college for the entire year’s tuition. The following year, he received a basketball scholarship and ultimately finished school. When he graduated, he had a surplus of money, the opposite of when he’d first enrolled.

(  Continues…   )

Excerpted from The Scroll by Parrish Smith. Copyright © 2014 Parrish Smith. Excerpted by permission of KENSINGTON PUBLISHING CORP. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

WATCH THE SCROLL VIDEO INTRODUCTION
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The Scroll: Inspiration from America’s Most Revered Spiritual Leaders
Trade Paperback; Inspirational; Self Help; Religious; Christian Life Guidance

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STAY STRONG! Statement from Terrie M. Williams

Terrie M. Williams! Terrie is a communications strategist, mental health activist, the author of “Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We’re Not Hurting” and co-founder of The New Legacy Leaders Project.

Some words to keep you going.  Stay Strong ….much love, Terrie

My child, don’t give up.  When you feel as if you’ve run the last lap, stop a while and catch your breath.  Come rest in My arms.  You will have those days when body, spirit and emotions cry, “Enough!”  When that happens, turn to Me and wait.  In due time, I will give you new strength.  You will not only run with energy but also mount up on wings and fly across the finish line.  I initiated your race, and I will help you complete it. 

*****

My child, never fear when you walk through fiery circumstances.  A wretched failure, a business loss, an unexplained illness– they will come like unwelcome flames in the night.  Don’t be terrified but look closely.  In the middle of that fiery furnace, you’ll see a familiar face.  I’ll walk through the flames with you. 

*****

My child, I have chosen earthly vessels like you to hold My most valuable jewels because My light shines best in ordinary people.  Others, full of themselves or with the cares of this world, have stuffed their jars so full, there is no room left for Me.  Use my discretion wisely, My child.  Sacred things are not to be trampled, but preserved.  Share My treasures wisely.  Don’t hoard them, but give them to faithful disciples who appreciate the value. 

*****

When I cannot utter the words, God, I know you are with me.  Your presence is a comfort to me even in my deepest pain.  Thank you for being that One who sticks so close that your breath is my breath.  Be my leaning post and hold me up so that I might be strong of mind and body.  Amen

*****

Eternal God, Your ways are not our ways and Your thoughts are not our thoughts.  We often forget this when we find ourselves caught between the rocks and hard places of life.  Thank you for showing me that there are no tight spaces where Your spirit cannot enter and no sore spots that your love cannot soothe.  In those times when what we face seems too difficult, assure us once again that you have a ram in the bush for every situation.

*****

My child, whenever you encounter an obstacle, remember, I have already provided a way around it or through it.  The next time you see a cloud on the horizon, don’t fear the storm.  Look closely, and you will see and feel My presence. 

** Shared by Terrie M. Williams Founder/President of The Terrie Williams Agency
Mental Health Advocate/Author of Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We’re Not Hurting
Websites:  http://www.terriewilliams.com   and  http://www.newlegacyleaders.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Terrie M. Williams is a communications strategist,  mental health activist,  the author of “Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We’re Not Hurting” and co-founder of The New Legacy Leaders Project.  You can follow her on Facebook and  Twitter:  @terriewilliams
 
  
Terrie M. Williams Quick Links
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http://www.newlegacyleaders.com
http://www.storiesthatheal.samhsa.gov

To book Terrie for speaking engagements and media opportunities, please email your comments/requests to tmwms@terriewilliams.com and  rstewart@terriewilliams.com
 
 
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Coming Oct. 28 – A CHRISTMAS PRAYER by Kimberla Lawson Roby

A CHRISTMAS PRAYER
by Kimberla Lawson Roby

Alexis Fletcher hasn’t had a merry Christmas in five years-not since her mother passed away. Every December she remembers the joy her mother brought to everyone during the holiday season and feels the pain of her absence, even more so now that she and her sister are barely speaking. More than anything, Alexis wishes her family could be whole again.

However, with her wedding fast approaching, Alexis might just be ready to make some holiday memories with a new family of her own. Alexis’s fiancé, Chase Dupont, is everything she ever dreamed of. He’s kind, handsome, fully supportive of Alexis’s career, and the CEO of a large company. But outside forces threaten to derail this happy couple from ever reaching the altar.

As tensions rise, a dramatic event causes Alexis to question everything. Will fate give her what she needs to finally embrace the season that has brought her so much pain? Will Alexis get her wish for a happy holiday? Or will her Christmas prayer go unanswered?

Chapter 1 – A Christmas Prayer

It was Black Friday, and while millions of folks were out chasing some of the most colossal deals of the century, all Alexis wanted was for this whole Christmas season to be over with. There were times when she wished she could feel differently, but ever since her mom had passed away five years ago, she hadn’t wanted anything to do with it. Of course, she did still recognize and mentally rejoice at the beautiful birth of Christ, but when it came to huge family celebrations and festive gatherings, she wanted no parts of them. What she did instead, mostly, was pray that New Year’s Day would come as quickly as possible so she could get on with her life.

Alexis curled her body into a tighter ball, picked up the remote control, and looked toward the flat-screen television on her bedroom wall. It was shortly past one in the afternoon, yet she still lay in her dark mahogany sleigh-style bed with her pajamas on. She just didn’t feel like doing anything, and the fact that almost every news channel she turned to showed massive shopping crowds and footage of customers and workers being trampled, well, that made Alexis want to turn off the TV altogether. As it was, she had already been trying her best to avoid every one of those sappy Hallmark Christmas card commercials, and she’d certainly been staying clear of one of her personal favorites—the Hallmark Channel itself, since they were doing what they did every year: airing those depressing Christmas movies day in and day out, twenty-four seven .

If only her mom were still here, Alexis would be so much happier. Even now, she couldn’t help thinking about how much her mom had loved, loved, loved Christmas. It had been by far her favorite holiday, and she’d adored it so much that she would immediately begin decorating the day after Thanksgiving. She would celebrate in various other ways, too, the entire month of December, including playing some of her favorite Christmas carols, such as “Silent Night,” “Away in a Manger,” and “The First Noel.” Then, on the twenty-fifth, she would host a huge family dinner. She bought gifts for everyone, she baked and cooked and baked and cooked some more, and on Christmas afternoon, she would say, “I almost hate to see the sun go down, because Christmas will be just about over.”

This was how it had always been, and it was because of these kinds of sentiments that Alexis was full of happy childhood memories. She even had fond memories from her adult life…that is, until her mom had passed.  Now her heart was consumed only with sadness.

Alexis flipped through more channels, sighing heavily. But then she came upon one of her favorite movies, This Christmas, starring Loretta Devine, Regina King, and Idris Elba. She could tell the movie had been on for a while because Chris Brown was already walking toward the front of the church, preparing to sing…“This Christmas.” Alexis watched and listened, though she wasn’t sure why she tortured herself this way, because not once had she ever watched this scene without breaking into tears. It was such a reminder of her mom and the way she had loved and doted on her family. It also reminded Alexis of how her mom had taught her children exceedingly strong Christian values. She’d raised Alexis and her younger sister, Sabrina, to treat all people the way they wanted to be treated and to keep God and family first in their lives. The two of them had been very blessed to have such a loving, caring, and compassionate mother—and it meant everything.

Alexis watched Chris Brown singing from the depths of his soul and then saw family members standing and walking into the church aisle, embracing one another. It was after this that Alexis’s eyes welled up with tears, and she cried uncontrollably. She missed her mother so tremendously that her chest ached. Then, to make matters worse, the next scene showcased the entire family gathered around the dinner table. They looked as though they couldn’t be happier, and Alexis couldn’t help thinking how this was the way she’d once felt, too.

But as the saying went, that was then and this was now. Her mother was gone, and as far as Alexis was concerned, there wasn’t a single thing or person that could make her feel better about it, not even the people Alexis loved. Paula, her best friend since childhood, had been trying to lift her Christmas spirit for years, and so had Alexis’s fiancé, Chase, for the time he’d known her. But if anything, Alexis seemed to feel sadder with each passing year. In fact, this year she’d begun dreading the whole idea of Christmas as early as September. She wasn’t sure what had set her off, exactly; all she knew was that not long after Labor Day, the thought of Christmas had entered her mind and she’d become depressed. It was as if the simplest anticipation of it all had been enough to ruin Alexis’s day, which was the reason she’d taken that particular afternoon off. This hadn’t been hard to do, since she was self-employed as a motivational speaker and her hours were flexible, but she still hated that mere thoughts of Christmas affected her so gravely.

It also didn’t help that she and her sister, Sabrina, were usually at odds about one thing or another. Alexis and Sabrina had never gotten along the way sisters should. They were just too different, she guessed. But at least when their mom had been alive, they’d worked harder at it and tolerated each other more. Now, Alexis practically had to beg to see her niece, Courtney, and there were times when Sabrina still told her no just to be spiteful. The two of them had a lot of bad history, but that was a whole other story and one Alexis didn’t want to think about because it was far too distressing.

As one thought after another raced  through her mind, Alexis wept like a child. She was miserable, and she wished she could sleep for the next week. She knew this wasn’t logical, but she just wanted this awful pain to go away. She wanted to be at peace, and before long, she glanced over at the bottle of amitriptyline on her wooden nightstand. Her doctor had prescribed it for insomnia, and although she only took one ten-milligram pill at bedtime, and sometimes only half a pill, she contemplated taking much more. Or maybe all she needed to do was take two of them, because she knew one woman who took twenty-five milligrams for unexplained abdominal pain and another who took more than that for depression. If Alexis only took twenty milligrams, she wouldn’t be overdoing it, and she also wouldn’t likely wake up until many hours from now—meaning she wouldn’t have to think about the loss of her mom or anything relating to family or Christmas. She would simply be able to sleep away her sadness, and by tomorrow, Black

Friday and all the hoopla surrounding it would be over. She was sure the media would continue covering all the shopping stories throughout the weekend as well as  on Cyber Monday, but at least the biggest shopping day of the year would have ended, and she’d be one day closer to January 1.

All she had to do was bide her time, and things would return to normal. They had to, because after all, she and Chase were getting married in June, and the last thing she wanted was to be an unhappy bride. She was engaged to the man of her dreams, and she looked forward to becoming Mrs. Chase Dupont III. This was what she kept telling herself, anyway—especially since her future mother-in-law was the most heartless woman she’d ever met. Still, what woman in her right mind wouldn’t be thrilled about marrying a man like Chase? He was gorgeous, well educated, and CEO of a Fortune 500 company called Borg-Freeman Technologies—which, interestingly enough, was the same position his father had held for years before his passing. He’d also placed a five-karat ring on her finger, and he truly loved her. By most people’s standards, Chase was everything a woman could hope for, so Alexis tried to remember that.

But for now, she reached over and picked up her pill bottle, opened it, swallowed two pills with water, and lay back down. She closed her eyes and smiled. In a few moments, she’d be sound asleep and wouldn’t have to think about Christmas at all…and she certainly wouldn’t have to think about Chase’s mother—or the disastrous time she’d had with them yesterday during Thanksgiving dinner. She wouldn’t have a problem in the world, and just knowing that made her feel better already.

( Continued… )

As the online publicist for EDC Creations, hired by Kimberla Lawson Roby, I have her permission to share this excerpt.  © 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Kimberla Lawson Roby.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

Purchase  A Christmas Prayer  by Kimberla Lawson Roby
On Sale Date: 10/28/2014;  Novella – Pages: 192
B&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-christmas-prayer-kimberla-roby/1118862156

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Prayer-Kimberla-Lawson-Roby/dp/1455526045

View the full list of places to purchase A Christmas Prayer
http://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/kimberla-lawson-roby/a-christmas-prayer/9781455526048/buy/#resellers

JOIN THE  CHRISTMAS PRAYER NATIONAL BOOK TOUR

 
ROCKFORD, IL
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
7:00 PM
Speaking and Book Signing
Barnes & Noble
7200 Harrison
Rockford, IL

CHICAGO, IL
Thursday, October 30, 2014
7:00 PM
Speaking and Book Signing
Barnes & Noble
160 Orland Park Place
Orland Park, IL 60462

COLUMBUS, OH
Friday, October 31, 2014
7:00 PM
Speaking and Book Signing
Barnes & Noble
1560 Polaris Parkway
Columbus, OH 43240

DETROIT, MI
Saturday, November 1, 2014
2:00 PM
Speaking and Book Signing
Barnes & Noble
6800 Orchard Lake Road
West Bloomfield, MI 48322

BATON ROUGE, LA
Saturday, November 8, 2014
2:00 PM
Speaking and Book Signing
Between the Lines Bookstore
Inside the McKinley Alumni Center
1520 Thomas Delpit
Baton Rouge, La 70802

Meet Kimberla Lawson Roby

New York Times Bestselling Author Kimberla Lawson Roby has published 20 novels which include  THE PRODIGAL SON, A HOUSE DIVIDED, THE PERFECT MARRIAGE, THE REVEREND’S WIFE, SECRET OBSESSION, LOVE, HONOR, and BETRAY, BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU PRAY FOR, A DEEP DARK SECRET, THE BEST OF EVERYTHING, ONE IN A MILLION, SIN NO MORE, LOVE & LIES, CHANGING FACES, THE BEST-KEPT SECRET, TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING, A TASTE OF REALITY, IT’S A THIN LINE, CASTING THE FIRST STONE, HERE AND NOW, and her debut title, BEHIND CLOSED DOORS, which was originally self-published through her own company, Lenox Press.

Kimberla Lawson Roby  has sold more than 2,000,000 copies of her novels, and they have frequented numerous bestseller lists, including The New York Times, USA Today, The Washington Post, Publishers Weekly, Essence Magazine, Upscale Magazine, Emerge Magazine, Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com, Wal-Mart, The Dallas Morning News, and The Austin Chronicle to name a few, and both BEHIND CLOSED DOORS and CASTING THE FIRST STONE were #1 Blackboard bestsellers for four consecutive months in both 1997 and 2000.  BEHIND CLOSED DOORS was the #1 Blackboard Best-selling book for paperback fiction in 1997.

Kimberla is a 2013 NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction, the recipient of the 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2013 Author of the Year – Female award presented by the African-American Literary Award Show in New York, the recipient of the 2014 Literary Excellence Award from Black  Pearls Magazine,  the recipient of the 2014 AAMBC Award for Female Author of the Year, the recipient of the Blackboard Fiction Book of the Year Award in 2001 for CASTING THE FIRST STONE, the recipient of the 1998 First-Time Author Award from Chicago’s Black History Month Book Fair and Conference, and in 2001, Kimberla was inducted into the Rock Valley College Alumni Hall of Fame (Rockford, IL).

Each of Kimberla’s novels deal with very real issues, including corruption within the church, drug addiction, gambling addiction, infidelity, social status, single motherhood, infertility, sibling rivalry and jealousy, domestic violence, sexual abuse, mental illness, care-giving of a parent, racial and gender discrimination in the workplace, sexual harassment, and overweight issues to name a few.

Kimberla resides in Illinois with her husband, Will.  Her 21st title, A CHRISTMAS PRAYER will release on October 28, 2014.

Use the share buttons to support Black Pearls magazine! Please rate the article. What do you think?

 

The One That I Want – Holiday Anthology

#WhatIWantWednesday – The One That I Want – Holiday Anthology

Be The Change!

LISTEN TO THE CALL TO ACTION FOR READERS!

Spirit is amazing! I’m so excited about the projects Zuri and I are working on, but had to come out of the cave to share something that is dear to my heart. It’s a tad lengthy but knowledge is power, and I wanted you to be one of the first to know the story behind the story. 

In April, I attended the RT (Romantic Times) Booklovers Convention, an annual event drawing 2,000 avid, excited, mostly-White book lovers every single year. This year, I was delighted that the organization chose to honor the legends of African-American Romance! Brenda Jackson, Beverly Jenkins, and Sandra Kitt were on hand to personally receive awards!!!

Next, they ran a video featuring more legends, our stars who’ve paved the way for so many including: Gwynne Forster, Rochelle Alers, the late Francis Ray, Evelyn Palfry, Shirley Halstock and Donna Hill. For each new face, a spattering of enthusiastic applause from the dozen or so AA authors in attendance went up. I looked around and wondered why the majority weren’t clapping. Then it hit me. This huge ballroom filled with diehard romancers had no idea who these writers were.

That is a shame.

Recently, I attended the National Book Club Conference in Atlanta, where 300 or so loyal, voracious readers, many of them part of a book club, gathered to celebrate readers, especially book clubs, authors and the written word. During a panel discussion, we talked about the rapidly-changing industry, the dwindling employment and publishing opportunities and how the wonderfully written stories by prolific authors could be read not only by more of our own culture, but by everyone. A special concern for several in attendance, is the fact that those making the decisions regarding content, relevance, book covers, topics, and in general what makes a good and believable African-American story are often people who are not Black nor familiar with Black culture.

What can we do to take back our voice?
Great question, one I’d discussed passionately with Publicist Ella Curry, of EDC-Creations, just one month ago. The answer isn’t necessarily simple, but it doesn’t have to be over-complicated either. Do what we’ve always done. Put our heads together and make it happen. Come together for a common cause. Through the use of collective consumerism, we can catapult a number of well-deserving authors onto the pages that will not only get them noticed, but increase their sales, which in turn, increases their power in the boardroom. Additionally, it would put their book titles in places where more readers, buyers, publishers, etc., can know their name and discover these wonderful talents.

First up? The New York Times Bestseller list.
The campaign?  #WhatIWantWednesday,  promoting an upcoming anthology featuring Donna Hill, called The One That I Want.

Taking back our power is as easy as 1, 2, 3. 
#WhatIWantWednesday – October 8, 2014

1.  On or before October 8, 2014,  purchase an ebook copy of The One That I Want, featuring Cheris Hodges, Zuri Day and Donna Hill.

2.  Send proof-of-purchase to: WhatIWantWednesday@Gmail.com,  and be entered to win a prize package valued at $500.

3.  Watch your mail on October 15, to see who has won the grand  prize giveaway!

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/One-That-I-Want-ebook/dp/B00J7W1EE8
B&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-one-that-i-want-zuri-day/1117797556

Join us!  Order your copy of The One That I Want today!
Let’s be the change we want to see and diversify the literary landscape one author, one book, one click at a time! 

---

The One That I Want – Holiday Anthology
Heat up the winter nights with this trio of sexy, festive stories.

For downloads to Kindle, click cover.   For Nook lovers, click here.

Here is the anthology to put the sizzle in a cold winter night.  Three hits by Zuri Day, Cheris Hodges and Donna Hill!  How can you go wrong?

A Promise For The Holiday Donna Hill
Devastated by her divorce, Cara Holiday vowed never to be vulnerable again. Now she’s a wildly successful real estate broker, and wildly lonely. Restaurateur Mitch Davis has had his eye on her, but can’t break the ice–until he cooks up a scheme to hire her. Soon Cara is enjoying his company–and secretly drawing out the process of selling his house. When their deceptions collide, will their blossoming relationship make it to the holidays?

A Sexy Christmas Carol Zuri Day
After years of travel working for a pop diva, Carol Robbins has moved back to Detroit in time for the holidays. She’s bought a home and bonded with her family. As for romance, she’s got no prospects–until she attends a VIP party and makes a surprising love connection. Soon she’s torn between her old “big life,” her hopes for the future–and one man who may give her the greatest gift of all. . .

Christmas Surprise Cheris Hodges
Tired of coming second to her wealthy husband’s career, Lola Yvonne Joseph is sending him a very special gift this year: divorce papers. Then she’s leaving Miami for the kind of wintery white Christmas she’s always wanted. She definitely does not expect Jonathan to track her down, whisk her away, and do everything possible to win her back. If he succeeds, Lola has one more surprise in store for him. . .

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/One-That-I-Want-ebook/dp/B00J7W1EE8
B&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-one-that-i-want-zuri-day/1117797556

Use the share buttons to support Black Pearls magazine! Please rate the article. What do you think?

 

Kinky Coily – open your eyes to true hair beauty

Pamela Samuels Young is a NAACP Image Award winning author and practicing attorney who’s taken a brief hiatus from crafting her fast-paced mystery novels to write about her newest passion: natural hair care. In her first non-fiction book, Kinky Coily: A Resource Guide to Going Natural, Pamela chronicles her transition to natural hair. Kinky Coily also provides tips and resources for other women who want to begin their own natural hair journey. A bona fide natural hair enthusiast, Pamela is excited about sharing her new found knowledge in the hope of helping other women learn the beauty and versatility of their kinky coils. You can visit Pamela’s YouTube channel, KinkyCurlyPamela, and her website, http://www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com, for more hair care tips and videos. Have you been thinking about transitioning to natural hair, but don’t know where to start? Then Kinky Coily: A Resource Guide for Going Natural  is for you. A literal treasure trove of information, Kinky Coily is a roadmap for anyone interested in beginning a natural hair journey. You’ll find the best bloggers, the best books and magazines, as well as recommendations on how to select the right hair care tools and products. Better yet, you’ll learn how to begin your natural hair journey, how to develop a weekly hair care regime and how to track your progress. Whether you’re transitioning from a relaxer, ready to give up your weave or flat iron, or already rocking your natural locs, Kinky Coily: A Resource Guide for Going Natural will open your eyes to the true beauty and versatility of your naturally kinky coils. BPM: Why did you go natural? How did you start the journey from permed hair to natural hair? I decided to go natural after my hair started falling out from a relaxer. One day I had a head full of hair and only a few months later, I had patches of bald spots. My hair was shedding at an alarming rate every single day and neither I nor the hair stylist I was seeing knew how to stop it. A friend of mind had recently gone natural and introduced me to her natural hair mentor, Deanie. Deanie met me at the beauty supply, told me about sulfates and moisturizing, recommended conditioners and protein treatment, and gave me a list of do’s and don’ts. After the very first treatment, my hair stopped falling out-immediately. That’s when I became a believer and set out on a journey to take charge of my own hair care. BPM: Did you go for the “big chop” or did you transition to natural hair with braids or a wig? Initially, I refused to do the big chop. I just didn’t want to sport a teeny weenie after. So I hid my damaged hair underneath a wig. But after about three months, I got tired of putting on a wig every morning and taking it off every night. So I did it. I chopped it all off and I’m so glad I did. BPM: We saw your YouTube videos.  Amazing! You are so brave to share your story with millions, what inspired you? I’ve learned so much about my natural hair. For example, I had no idea my hair had a natural wave pattern. So many people see my hair and say, “My hair would never do that.” I would’ve said the same thing. That’s because we don’t know our hair!  I’m on a mission to change that. Your readers can view all of the videos:http://www.youtube.com/user/KinkyCurlyPamela  BPM: What three tips would you offer women who are thinking about going natural? My top three tips are:  1) No sulfates! Either wash with a conditioner (co-wash) or find a sulfate free shampoo; 2) stay away from the heat, that means flat irons as well as blow dryers; and 3) moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Kinky hair needs moisture!  I deep condition at least twice a week and moisturize and seal nightly. BPM: What products do you use? Share with us your favorite products. Unfortunately, the same products don’t work for every hair texture. You’ll need to experiment to find out what works best for you. I have kinky, tightly coiled hair. So if you have a looser curl pattern or if your hair isn’t as coarse as mine, the products I love won’t work for you. That said, my can’t-do-without products are: Uncle Funky’s Daughter Curly Magic, Kinky Curly Knot Today conditioner, Organic Roots Stimulator’s Temple Balm and Curl Refresher, and Herbal Essence Long Term Relationship Conditioner. I love Herbal Essence for co washing. I also love mixing my own oils. My favorites are amla oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil, castor oil, olive oil and peppermint oil. BPM: How long did it take for your hair become more healthy in your opinion? It took about three months before I noticed my bald spots growing in. Within about six months, I really saw a change. My hair grew back much thicker and healthier. BPM: How did you wear your hair to work during the transition? I hid my damaged hair underneath a wig, until I finally broke down and did the big chop. I have to say, though, my Mommy wig was quite cute. I still plan to wear it sometime. BPM: Do you think our hair has a lot to do with our body image and self-esteem? Absolutely! I don’t care what I’m wearing. If my hair isn’t right, I don’t feel good about myself. BPM: Research helps us learn to embrace our beautiful hair. Did you do a lot of research? Tons of research. I recommend that everybody read The Science of Black Hair: A Comprehensive Guide to Textured Hair Care by Audrey Davis-Sivasothy. That book is an encyclopedia on kinky hair. I learned so much from that book. And I lived on the internet and YouTube. My favorite bloggers are Curly Nikki, Naptural 85, KimmayTube, Mahogany Curls and African Export. I owe those sistas a debt of gratitude for everything they taught me. BPM: What was the most rewarding part of this experience? All the compliments I get about my hair. Women always come up to me to ask about the products I use and I’m always glad to share. BPM: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book and your how-to-videos? I want them to have the confidence to take charge of their own hair care. I’m not trying to put hair stylists out of business. But I want women to know they can remedy their own hair care problems. If I’d known everything I know now when my hair started falling out, I could have stopped my shedding. My hair was damaged from the heat and badly needed moisture. I was also getting touch ups too often. But I didn’t that because I knew nothing about the care of my hair. Now I do! BPM: What advice would you give a person who wants to tell their hair care story? Take good notes during your hair care journey. I keep a journal and took pictures every three months. After you finish your book, ask for constructive feedback from family and friends. Connect with Pamela Online http://www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com http://www.twitter.com/pamsamuelsyoung http://www.youtube.com/kinkycurlypamela http://www.facebook.com/pamelasamuelsyoung

Use the share buttons to support Black Pearls magazine! Please rate the article. What do you think?

 

#WhatIWantWednesday – The One That I Want – Holiday Anthology

Be The Change!

LISTEN TO THE CALL TO ACTION FOR READERS!

Hello Lovelies! Spirit is amazing! I’m so excited about the projects Zuri and I are working on, but had to come out of the cave to share something that is dear to my heart. It’s a tad lengthy but knowledge is power, and I wanted you to be one of the first to know the story behind the story. 

In April, I attended the RT (Romantic Times) Booklovers Convention, an annual event drawing 2,000 avid, excited, mostly-White book lovers every single year. This year, I was delighted that the organization chose to honor the legends of African-American Romance! Brenda Jackson, Beverly Jenkins, and Sandra Kitt were on hand to personally receive awards!!!

Next, they ran a video featuring more legends, our stars who’ve paved the way for so many including: Gwynne Forster, Rochelle Alers, the late Francis Ray, Evelyn Palfry, Shirley Halstock and Donna Hill. For each new face, a spattering of enthusiastic applause from the dozen or so AA authors in attendance went up. I looked around and wondered why the majority weren’t clapping. Then it hit me. This huge ballroom filled with diehard romancers had no idea who these writers were.

That is a shame.

Recently, I attended the National Book Club Conference in Atlanta, where 300 or so loyal, voracious readers, many of them part of a book club, gathered to celebrate readers, especially book clubs, authors and the written word. During a panel discussion, we talked about the rapidly-changing industry, the dwindling employment and publishing opportunities and how the wonderfully written stories by prolific authors could be read not only by more of our own culture, but by everyone. A special concern for several in attendance, is the fact that those making the decisions regarding content, relevance, book covers, topics, and in general what makes a good and believable African-American story are often people who are not Black nor familiar with Black culture.

What can we do to take back our voice?
Great question, one I’d discussed passionately with Publicist Ella Curry, of EDC-Creations, just one month ago. The answer isn’t necessarily simple, but it doesn’t have to be over-complicated either. Do what we’ve always done. Put our heads together and make it happen. Come together for a common cause. Through the use of collective consumerism, we can catapult a number of well-deserving authors onto the pages that will not only get them noticed, but increase their sales, which in turn, increases their power in the boardroom. Additionally, it would put their book titles in places where more readers, buyers, publishers, etc., can know their name and discover these wonderful talents.

First up? The New York Times Bestseller list.
The campaign?  #WhatIWantWednesday,  promoting an upcoming anthology featuring Donna Hill, called The One That I Want.

Taking back our power is as easy as 1, 2, 3. 
#WhatIWantWednesday – October 8, 2014

1.  On or before October 8, 2014,  purchase an ebook copy of The One That I Want, featuring Cheris Hodges, Zuri Day and Donna Hill.

2.  Send proof-of-purchase to: WhatIWantWednesday@Gmail.com,  and be entered to win a prize package valued at $500.

3.  Watch your mail on October 15, to see who has won the grand  prize giveaway!

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/One-That-I-Want-ebook/dp/B00J7W1EE8
B&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-one-that-i-want-zuri-day/1117797556

Join us!  Order your copy of The One That I Want today!
Let’s be the change we want to see and diversify the literary landscape one author, one book, one click at a time! 

---

The One That I Want – Holiday Anthology
Heat up the winter nights with this trio of sexy, festive stories.

For downloads to Kindle, click cover.   For Nook lovers, click here.

Here is the anthology to put the sizzle in a cold winter night.  Three hits by Zuri Day, Cheris Hodges and Donna Hill!  How can you go wrong?

A Promise For The Holiday Donna Hill
Devastated by her divorce, Cara Holiday vowed never to be vulnerable again. Now she’s a wildly successful real estate broker, and wildly lonely. Restaurateur Mitch Davis has had his eye on her, but can’t break the ice–until he cooks up a scheme to hire her. Soon Cara is enjoying his company–and secretly drawing out the process of selling his house. When their deceptions collide, will their blossoming relationship make it to the holidays?

A Sexy Christmas Carol Zuri Day
After years of travel working for a pop diva, Carol Robbins has moved back to Detroit in time for the holidays. She’s bought a home and bonded with her family. As for romance, she’s got no prospects–until she attends a VIP party and makes a surprising love connection. Soon she’s torn between her old “big life,” her hopes for the future–and one man who may give her the greatest gift of all. . .

Christmas Surprise Cheris Hodges
Tired of coming second to her wealthy husband’s career, Lola Yvonne Joseph is sending him a very special gift this year: divorce papers. Then she’s leaving Miami for the kind of wintery white Christmas she’s always wanted. She definitely does not expect Jonathan to track her down, whisk her away, and do everything possible to win her back. If he succeeds, Lola has one more surprise in store for him. . .

Amazon:  http://www.amazon.com/One-That-I-Want-ebook/dp/B00J7W1EE8
B&N:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-one-that-i-want-zuri-day/1117797556

Use the share buttons to support Black Pearls magazine! Please rate the article. What do you think?

 

#AuthorReading: The Devil Made Me Do It by Colette R. Harrell

The Devil Made Me Do It 
by Colette R. Harrell

LISTEN TO AUTHOR READING FROM BOOK

The Devil Made Me Do It  is Christian Fiction at its best. The novel is full of lessons about passion, pain and God’s abundant blessings. Filled with suspense, laughter and touching moments, this page-turning novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the last page. Colette is a new author to definitely watch. Brava, Ms. Harrell.   — Victoria Christopher Murray, Bestselling Author The voluptuous Esther Wiley has always known that she is special. She’s a tiara-wearing, wand-carrying kind of Cinderella princess in disguise. The problem that her very own Fairy Godmother, the Prophetess Mother Reed, struggles with is getting her to live like it. Briggs Stokes is the reluctant heir to his father’s worldwide, multimillion-dollar televangelist ministry, yet he yearns to be his own man. His past mistakes have caused him a private life of hurt and loneliness. Esther and Briggs meet and develop a deep soul connection, until tragedy strikes and the two are thrust apart. Their separation leads each down a different path scattered with emotional minefields. While each step they take brings them closer to who they were always meant to be, the devil is on assignment. He sends in reinforcements to usher in confusion and create chaos, and soon no one is safe. The members of Love Zion church reel from the rumors, innuendo, and downright sabotage that is going on around them.      When others devise evil schemes to seek the destruction of Esther and Briggs through jealousy, greed, and murder, only divine intervention can save them. As an all-out battle for dominion breaks out in the heavens, will Esther and Briggs become a casualty of war? Purchase Your Copies Today!     Captivating 5-Star Read!  Review written by Orsayor Simmons   We have heard the saying… When a reader opens a book, they are transported to a new world, and they never know what they may encounter. Maybe that’s not exactly how the saying goes… This author piqued my interest within the first few lines of the book. I started to reminisce on my childhood days growing up in Detroit. The book starts off with Esther as a kid experiencing her first disappointment in life. After standing in line for hours for an opportunity to try on Cinderella’s slippers – when it fits she is told it doesn’t and is sent on her way. As the book progresses – we get to witness the trials & tribulations Esther has to endure throughout her life. “For each of his young assignments, he was just beginning. He knew from experience it was better to catch the fruit before it matured.” When I read that line I closed the book and started searching for my book tabs. This book shows how the enemy tries to build his “foundation” early on in our minds/lives. It can start with a simple heartbreak and manifest into something you think you have no control over. The author takes readers through each pivotal moment of the character’s life which makes it easier to relate to their dilemma(s). This is a story of loss, love, family, faith, and forgiveness. The characters are well-written; the settings are so descriptive that you feel you are narrating the story. The Devil Made Me Do It is a captivating novel from start to finish. Author Colette R. Harrell’s debut novel will stay with the readers long after they have read the book. I highly recommend this book. Hands Down! One of the best books I have read this year. (I’m on my 90th book for the year…) Excerpt from Chapter Six Roger clapped his hands in her face to emphasize his message. “I said you are not going out. You at that church too much as it is.” Esther flinched. She was a grown woman standing in front of her husband being scolded like a four-year-old. This man was evil and small-minded. The caramel angular face, she had once thought so attractive now held a demonic quality to it, the gray-silver eyes piercing with cruel intent. She shivered and subconsciously crossed her heart with her right finger. “Did your big tail just make the sign of the cross against me, girl? So now I’m the devil?” he raged. Esther’s chin quivered. “Don’t call me names.” Before Esther could move, Roger snatched her backward and slapped her in the face. She backed away, holding her cheek in disbelief. She knew he had been drinking, but to hit her? Was he crazy? The hallway mirror provided proof of his madness; his handprint was red against the lightness of her complexion; the wetness in her eyes testament to her pain. Roger’s chest heaved from exertion as though he was trying to control himself. “See what you did?” Grabbing his jacket and stomping to the door, Roger spun around, heading straight for Esther’s purse. He rifled through it, found her wallet, and pulled out all of her cash; then he pushed the bills down into his pants pocket, and pat it in satisfaction. Mission accomplished, he walked out the door, reminding her, “Girl, don’t you go anywhere.” Esther felt cold hard rage, but she squashed it down and fled into the kitchen. All of a sudden she was hungry; frantically so. She grabbed containers out of her refrigerator. Placing a hefty amount of leftover fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and collard greens on an oversized plate, tears trickling down her face. While she nuked the food in the microwave, she went to the sink and ran cold water. Afterward, she soaked a paper towel and applied it to her cheek, then slumped down onto the nearest kitchen chair. She held her cheek and prayed. “Lord, I don’t want to be here. Help me be a doer of your Word and not return evil for evil. Give me the grace to sustain this marriage or the mercy to leave it. In your precious Son, Jesus’ name. Amen.” The microwave buzzed, and like a champ coming out of his corner, Esther came out of her daze. She looked down at all the food and remembered Roger’s hurtful words. With purpose, she covered her plate and placed it in the refrigerator. Marching through her living room, she picked up her purse and Bible and rushed out of the house. The cold towel pressed to her face, she was late for church. (  Continued…  ) © 2014  All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Colette R. Harrell.  Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this sneak peek. Purchase copies today:    http://www.amazon.com/The-Devil-Made-Me-Do/dp/1601627823

MEET THE AUTHOR

Colette (Ford) Harrell the author of the debut novel The Devil Made Me Do It is passionate about the written word. Holding a master’s degree, she is a director of human services. Her creation and implementation of a health and energy medical program stands as a best practices model. Her philosophy of service is compassionate care through a spirit of excellence. A motivational speaker, she specializes in customer and human service workshops on state and national levels.  She is cofounder of COJACK Productions, a Christian entertainment company. As an active member of her church, Kingdom Christian Center, she serves in several ministries.

Colette is a wife, mother, author, poet, songwriter, and playwright. Her novel is a delectable read, where romance, suspense, humor, and the supernatural all come together to entertain, educate, and inspire.

A Detroit native, she currently resides in Ohio, writing with humor and compassion to engage and minister to the human heart. Her motto is: whatever you do, do it “for love alone.”

 

Purchase copies today of The Devil Made Me Do It by Colette R. Harrell

Link:  http://amzn.com/1601627823      

 

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#AuthorReading – Taming The Female Impostor Book of Secrets to Rescuing Humanity

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“Dr. Vie’s book will inspire many to change their lifestyle and way of thinking for better health, peace of mind and harmony.” – Dr. Verma, Ayurveda Doctor,  India

 
Ancient secrets to creating the new woman – feminine, creative and super-conscious.  She is the healing power to change the future of our Planet Earth. Coming in August, 2014. (400 pages)

Taming The Female Impostor:  Book of Secrets to Rescuing Humanity – There is a global crisis where crime, illness and unhappiness are increasing, world-wide. The Book of Secrets uses fantasy characters to unravel shocking new insights into the root cause of the problems, and reveals the Magical Weapons of Veedinti, tools to restore peace, love and joy in your personal life, in your communities, nation and the world at large. The book is ideal for men and women, from teens to seniors seeking to improve their lives in general, and especially, in the areas of sexuality, family, food, friendships, work, relaxation and introspection.  Through The Great Rescue Game (for children) and Taming the Human Impostor (for adults), you learn how to implement the tools in daily living. Dr. Vie Academy and Dr. Vie Radio Show: “Who Do You Think You Are?” stimulate further interaction.

Book Reviews for Taming The Female Impostor

“Finally! After millenniums of spiritual teachings primarily by and geared to men, teachings which have dismissed and often denigrated feminine wisdom and power, comes Dr. Vie’s much needed guidance to help women cultivate and unleash their essential spirit. And just in time, so we wisely use balance feminine-masculine energy and co-create the healthy and harmonious evolution of humankind.”~ Ellen Eatough, MA, Extatica, San Francisco

“The first word that comes to mind is inspiring. One inspiration is Dr. Vie herself who finds her own power in her extraordinary story. Another is the wisdom passed down through the Book of Secrets that tells of the power of women. We don’t always see the power in ourselves, but here in the words of this book it can be found, and self-confidence can flourish.” ~Melissa C. Water, Author, Lady Injury, Toronto

The book integrates lifes most sought after questions into a captivating tale and journey, where the reader can explore who they are, how to find true peace and the meaning of life. Dr. Vie radiates compassion, courage and love as she inspires service to humanity and our great planet.  ~Jenni Parly, Life Coach, Los Angeles

“Every once in a while there comes along a book that captivates the mind and uplifts the soul. This is one of those books. In real life Dr. Vie has managed to maneuver through global cultures with ease and finesse.  With the same level of sophistication, she weaves a tapestry of universality in her book.  Each of us has the ability to rise above our circumstance, be it racism, sexism, environmental issues or cultural and religious biases. Each of us can choose to reject change and remain the same or board the “Life Express” and embrace the change. This winning book will appeal to a wide range of audiences globally.”  ~Lena McCalla Njee, MA, Special Education, Author, Autism Inspires.  Teacher of the Year 2011-2012, Nominee -2014 Governor of the Year Award, New Jersey

“Through new insights, Dr. Vie unravels the root cause of the female global crises, and provides powerful practical tools to restore peace, health and vitality,”  ~Dr. John Gray, Author, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, San Francisco

 “I have worked all of my professional life with high performance women, whether it was a National Team, a University varsity team or our leading entertainment company. Dr. Vie is certainly an elite, high performance person regardless of the field she chooses to endeavor in to! Dr. Vie is a pioneer in each field she chooses to focus on! I’ve loved Dr. Vie SuperFoods since 2007. Now, yet again, through this book she reveals fascinating perspectives and intuitive wisdom, making it a must read, for men also.”  ~Boris Verkhovsky, Former National Acrobatics Team Head Coach, Montreal

First Chapter from Taming The Female Impostor

Ch 1. Who Do You Think You Are?

At 29,000 feet above sea level, the tranquility of the Great Himalayas took Shakti’s breath away. She had waited twenty-five years for this day, for this moment. She had been preparing her whole life for this feeling, this state of being one with her true Self.

The tiny Indian woman, slender at 45kg (99 lbs.) and barely five feet tall, perched her body cross-legged on the bare rock surrounded by an expanse of virgin snow. She drank in the beauty around her, became mindful, lowered her eyelids, and took in a deep breath through her nostrils. She held it as she focused the energy on her third eye. In that moment of silence and super-consciousness, she was one with her true identity. She became a witness of her past life and the future.

As quickly as her rollercoaster past sped before her, the future shone so brightly that it startled her delicate frame. She opened her eyes briefly, took in another deep breath, and started to soar into the oneness of the eternal existence as she began to meditate in the home of the gods and goddesses, the land of her roots. She was blissfully peaceful.

It was only last week that she was in Australia, the country of her birth, spending a quiet Sunday afternoon with her dearest mother. Shakti had not been home for ten years. While sitting at the cozy dining table, she was startled when she said something aloud. It seemed as if the words were pouring out of her being. Once the words were spoken, she knew what was going to happen. Been there, done that! She had experienced that sensation hundreds of times before. . . .

When Shakti was a little girl growing up in Melbourne, she often experienced moments where she would say certain words without much control over what she was saying. It would seem as if someone else were saying those words through her. Strangely enough, within a few months, the very words that she had spoken, like a premonition, would turn into reality. As she grew into a young woman, the time between what she said and it happening became shorter and shorter. Eventually she learned to pay closer attention to the power of her words.

So when she casually said, “Mom, we should go to India,” Shakti’s mother was not at all surprised. Parvathi was quite used to her only child’s adventurous spirit. As her mother, Parvathi had partaken of so many of her child’s amazing experiences around the planet, and she could sense that yet another was unfolding.

Within a week, the Boeing was landing in Mumbai at Chhatrapati Shivaji airport, carrying two excited women on board. Their next adventure had begun. They were in India, among over a billion people.

As Shakti sank into deep meditation high in the Himalayas, images of women, children, babies, and the elderly from around the world entered her vision. Their wretched faces were lined with tears and wrinkled with pain. She could feel their emotions, their profound hurt, and their desperate desire for change, for hope, and for salvation. She shuddered at times as the images became stronger, closer, and clearer. Mothers were carrying babies on their hips, sobbing from hunger and dying of disease.

Young girls who had been violated by their family members were crying themselves to sleep, hoping for a miracle. There were women so overweight they could barely walk without discomfort. Some of them were in motorized chairs. Other women were skeletally thin from the ravages of anorexia. Elderly women appeared fatigued by pain, suffering with brain disease and dementia. Young females were crying out, on the brink of ending their lives because of depression. The pain ripped through Shakti’s light body as the sorrow of millions and billions of individual souls entered her, sharp as knives. Oh, dear heavens above, what pain, what sorrow, what helplessness, what desperation, what cries for help she experienced in that fleeting moment! Why was there so much suffering? Where was peace?

Just as quickly, a feeling of loving warmth enveloped her, as if a new era had dawned. She witnessed, through her third eye, women of every color smiling, arms held high as if reaching for the stars, dancing to the rhythm of their cultural music. Billions of women all around the world danced. Tears of joy streamed down Shakti’s face as she continued to observe throngs of children surrounding these women, their tiny faces filled with glee, dancing in rhythm to the sways of the blissful women.

All around the unsuspecting world, this dance emerged, this vibration of peace, this feeling of complete awareness, this sense of immense super-consciousness. These women, these creators of life, these mothers of Earth, were infusing the ground, the water, the air, and the heavens with their deep vibrational energies. Their natural healing powers were changing the fertility of their lands, the safety of their water, the purity of their air, and the power of their food. They were carving out a future of wellness, peace, happiness, and love over every inch of this planet. Around them, men were joyous as they used their amazing physical strength and lifetimes of wisdom to propel and maintain this new age in which the women and children were happy and well. Together, they became one. As one source of cosmic energy, they were changing the world. Love shone bright. Bliss descended over all. There was contentment.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Dr. Vie.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

COMING TO A BOOK STORE NEAR YOU!
Read more:  http://drvie.com/tamingthefemaleimpostorsummary

Meet the Author
Born in South Africa, with roots in India,  Dr. Sherine Vie, a former Swiss-based medical device scientist changed her career to natural health after losing her father to heart disease and helping her mother recover from breast cancer. Facing heart-breaking challenges while living solo in six countries, in 2004 Dr. Vie Research pioneered Dr. Vie SuperFoods™ in the North Americas, & since 2007 Dr. Vie SuperKids mentors children & recently, Dr. Vie Academy with Dr. Vie Radio helps all ages globally. Dr. Vie is focused on restoring the link between humanity, nature and the source of all life. Dr. Vie is a mountain-lover and has trekked many ranges including the Himalayas.

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#AuthorReading: Anybody’s Daughter by Pamela Samuels Young

Anybody’s Daughter by Pamela Samuels Young

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Go On Girl! Book Club, one of the largest national reading organizations in the U.S. dedicated to supporting writers of the African diaspora, is proud to officially announce its reading selections for July thru December 2014.  The books were chosen by members of the GOG Reading List Committee headed by Chairman Joyce Williams.  She says, “We are excited to present another round of compelling titles that are sure to generate incredible discussions among our members.”   The selections represent six of the twelve official genres read by Go On Girl! Book Club.

Popular novelist, Pamela Samuels Young sheds light on child sex trafficking with a story full of suspense.  Writer Jason Mott imagines life in a small southern town when deceased loved ones come back to life.   Author Lauren Francis-Sharma takes us to Trinidad with a story of enduring love.   Pulitzer Prize winning poet Gwendolyn Brooks makes the list with her only published novel.   Writer Gil Robertson IV explores the issues facing African American couples.   Dancer Misty Copeland traces her journey from life in a shabby hotel room to the prestigious American Ballet Theater.

 
Go On Girl! Book Club Reading List is Legendary and Important!
Please Check out the August, 2014  Featured Selection
Anybody’s Daughter by Pamela Samuels Young

Is Anybody’s Daughter Ever Safe?

Based on the real-life horrors faced by thousands of girls, award-winning author Pamela Samuels Young takes readers deep inside the disturbing world of child sex trafficking in a fast-paced thriller that educates as much as it entertains.

Thirteen-year-old Brianna Walker is ecstatic. She’s about to sneak off to meet her first real boyfriend—a boyfriend she met on Facebook. But Brianna is in for a horrifying surprise because her boyfriend doesn’t exist. Instead, Brianna unwittingly becomes the captive of a ring of drug dealers- turned-human traffickers who prey on lonely girls from dysfunctional homes. But they’ve made a big mistake in targeting Brianna because she doesn’t meet either of those criteria.

Brianna’s Uncle Dre, a man with his own criminal past, is determined to find the niece who is more like a daughter to him. Rather than sit back and rely on police to bring Brianna home, Dre scours the dark corners of Los Angeles looking for her. He is stunned to learn that the trafficking of children isn’t just happening in other countries. It’s occurring at epidemic levels right in his own backyard.

Dre is not alone in his desperate search. Loretha Johnson knows this world well. A social worker who previously lived “the life,” Loretha now dedicates her time to saving as many young girls as she can find. She turns out to be an invaluable resource for Dre, who ultimately gets a lead on The Shepherd, a mastermind in the trafficking world whose every move is fueled by ego and greed. Dre vows to bring his reign of terror to an end.

While Brianna makes a futile effort to thwart her captors, Dre is getting closer and closer to finding her. The woman he loves, attorney Angela Evans, knows the dangers faced by sexually exploited children because she represents them in juvenile court. Angela lends her moral support and, eventually, an important clue to Brianna’s whereabouts.

As he races against the clock, Dre ultimately comes up with a daring plan—one that puts many lives in danger, including his own. But will he find Brianna before it’s too late?

About the Author
Pamela Samuels Young is a practicing attorney and bestselling author of the legal thrillers, Every Reasonable Doubt, In Firm Pursuit, Murder on the Down Low, Buying Time, Attorney-Client Privilege, and Anybody’s Daughter. She is also a natural hair enthusiast and the author of Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide.

In addition to writing legal thrillers and working as an in-house employment attorney for a major corporation in Southern California, Pamela formerly served on the board of directors of the Los Angeles Chapter of Mystery Writers of America and is a diehard member of Sisters in Crime-L.A., an organization dedicated to the advancement of women mystery writers. The former journalist and Compton native is a graduate of USC, Northwestern University and UC Berkeley’s School of Law.

Anybody’s Daughter by Pamela Samuels Young
Dre Thomas Series Book 2.  Available on Kindle

Purchase Today:
http://www.amazon.com/Anybodys-Daughter-Thomas-Series-Book-ebook/dp/B00GC7UI8E

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#AuthorReading: Troublemaker by Trice Hickman

Troublemaker by Trice Hickman
Unexpected Love Series

Every joy has its challenges. . .

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After twenty years, childhood best friends Alexandria Thornton and PJ Brightwood have reunited–and fallen in love. Alex’s artistic nature as a spoken word artist, and PJ’s success as a talented surgeon promise a bright future. But their happiness brings unexpected complications for those they care about most. . .

A devoted wife, loving mother, and successful businesswoman, Victoria Thornton is a pillar of her suburban Atlanta community. But when her daughter, Alexandria, becomes engaged to the son of Victoria’s former lover, her past mistake threatens her orderly life. As the impending marriage reunites both families, it reignites old feelings that test all of their relationships–and all of their boundaries. . .

CHAPTER 2

Alexandria

Alexandria smiled as she stretched her long, shapely legs across PJ’s buttery-soft leather sofa. “Now that I’ve finished cooking, it’s time to relax” she said aloud. She ran her fingers through the mass of thick curls atop her head and let out a deep breath of relief, glad she was finally able to relax after her long day. She’d been busy from the moment she’d stepped out the door this morning with a coffee mug in one hand and a toasted bagel in the other. Her life had been more hectic in the last year than she could ever remember. So much was changing so fast, but with that change she felt the hope and excitement of new possibilities that lay ahead.

She breathed a sigh of relief when she thought about the fact that this Friday would be her last day of work at a job she’d dreaded since the day she’d started. She was an attorney, on the fast track, employed with the prestigious downtown Atlanta law firm of Johnson, Taylor, and Associates. Alexandria had worked there since she’d interned with them while still in law school. Now, six years later, she was ready to step out of what she’d been academically trained to do, and take hold of the direction in which her heart had always led her, which was to pursue her passion as a writer and spoken-word artist.

Alexandria thought about her promising future as she lay on her back and flipped through one of her many bridal magazines. Even though her wedding day was just one month away, and all the major details had been planned to a tee, she still couldn’t resist looking at pictures of happy couples, replete with bountiful flowers and their wedding parties in tow, all overflowing with nuptial bliss.

Alexandria smiled every time she thought about how happy she was and how much her life had significantly changed since this time last year. It seemed as though it were just yesterday that she’d broken up with her old boyfriend, Peter, and in less than twenty-four hours, fate, along with her grandma Allene’s sage advice, had led her down a completely different path to peace, understanding, and true love. Now she was engaged to PJ, her childhood best friend who’d walked into her life and changed her world.

She could still remember her grandma Allene’s words. Speak what’s in your heart. Say what it is that you desire, and watch it walk into your life.

Alexandria had heeded those words and still lived by them today. She knew that speaking what she wanted, and then trusting and believing with indomitable faith that her desires would be met in abundance, was the reason PJ was in her life. As she looked at the beautiful gowns of silk and tulle, she raised her hand in the air, as if in praise, and gave thanks for her blessings. “Amen,” she said quietly.

She was thankful for this joyous time in her life, and she planned to savor every moment because she was all too aware of the trouble that was lying in wait on the other side. Gritty realities and unpleasant truths were about to surface, not just in her life, but in the lives of family and friends whom she loved. She knew the road ahead was paved with detours, rough patches, and a few hazard signs. But she also knew she’d get through them thanks to her faith, her grandma Allene, and the amazing gift of prophecy she now embraced.

“Thank you, Grandma Allene,” Alexandria whispered. “I love you for showing me the way.”

As soon as her words floated into the air, Alexandria knew that her grandma Allene’s spirit had entered the room. Whenever she felt a warm breeze, a gentle, unexplainable tug at her arm, or smelled the unmistakably sweet scent of magnolias—which had just wafted by her nose—she knew it was her great-great-grandmother communicating with her.

Alexandria inhaled the fragrant, uniquely Southern scent that always made her feel safe and at ease. That sense of comfort and security was very different from the turmoil and strife she’d experienced in the past whenever she thought about her gift.

Communicating with spirits and having premonitions were abilities that had burdened Alexandria since she was five years old. She’d always felt different and out of place, constantly trying to navigate where she stood in a world filled with uncertainty. Her lack of grounding and understanding of her gift had made her afraid of the supernatural powers she possessed. But all that had changed last summer when Allene had contacted her for the first time.

Initially, Alexandria had been leery, and she hadn’t want any part of the mysteriously frightening world that had been haunting her since she was five years old. Many times she could remember waking up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat and covered with fear, terrified of the voices that belonged to spirits from another world that she couldn’t see or touch.

She also recognized that the ability to know what was going to happen in a given situation before it took place wasn’t always a good thing, and it had quickly become a heavy weight on her shoulders. She’d worried about things that kids her age didn’t have to deal with. She’d witnessed accidents, death, and destruction, and it had made her fearful of doing something as normal as dreaming at night because of what she might see. She’d often stood helpless with her knowledge, not knowing what to do or in whom to confide, so she’d learned how to ignore her gift and block out visions whenever they threatened her peace of mind.

But once her grandma Allene had come into her life and shown her the beauty of her gift, along with the strength and infinite possibilities it held, a new world had opened up to her for the first time.

She’d been hoping that her grandma Allene would soon make contact with her again. She missed hearing the old woman’s comforting voice and the soothing, down-home Southern accent it carried. Allene hadn’t communicated with her in nearly three months, which had initially alarmed Alexandria. But then she remembered Allene’s promise—that she’d always be there to guide and protect her. Alexandria knew she’d have to wait patiently and trust in Allene’s words, which were solid and rooted in love.

The one thing that Alexandria longed for more than anything was to talk with Allene face-to-face, instead of speaking in whispered tones through visions that always seemed to end much too quickly. During one of their talks, Alexandria had asked Allene to appear to her in the flesh.

“Grandma Allene, I want to see you. Can you come visit me?” she’d asked.

( Continued… )

Excerpted from Troublemaker by Trice Hickman. © 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Trice Hickman. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

About the Author
Trice Hickman is a self-proclaimed Southern girl, and award-winning, bestselling author. Trice’s love of reading and the power she recognized in the written word inspired her to become a writer. After receiving rejection letters from every agent and publisher she submitted her work to, Trice was determined to bring her stories to life. She self-published her first three novels to great success, and shortly thereafter, landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published. When she’s not busy writing and reading, Trice enjoys cooking, traveling, decorating, and meeting good people. Learn more about Trice at http://www.tricehickman.com.

Download Troublemaker  by Trice Hickman
Kindle Link:  http://amzn.com/B00IKOTMC0 

Purchase Troublemaker  by Trice Hickman
Paperback Link:  http://amzn.com/0758287267  

 

Books by Trice Hickman
http://www.amazon.com/Trice-Hickman/e/B002N44944 
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/trice-hickman/2106303 
 

 

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#AuthorReading: Open Door Marriage by Naleighna Kai

Open Door Marriage 
by Naleighna Kai

 

LISTEN TO AUTHOR READING FROM BOOK
 

A chance encounter lands NBA star Dallas Avery back in the arms of the woman of his dreams. A woman he hasn’t seen in years. A woman he soon discovers just so happens to be his fiancée’s aunt! But Dallas’ fiancee, Tori, isn’t ready to give up all that she’s worked for, so she makes him a shocking offer – go through with the wedding and she’ll still allow him to be with the one woman he now can’t seem to do without. Dallas will get a family, something her much older aunt, Alicia can’t give him. Tori will get the lifestyle she clamors. And Alicia will get the love she’s longed for all her life. Everyone will get a little of what they want . . . and maybe a whole lot of what they don’t.

The details of the trio’s love life play out in the tabloids and on talk shows, making Dallas the center of an NBA scandal. And eventually, the doors slam shut on this open marriage and Dallas is forced to make a choice to end the chaos. But moving on is easier than it looks and by the time all is said and done, secrets will be revealed, passions will be extinguished, and everyone’s lives will be forever changed.

120 SATISFIED READERS LEFT 4-5 STAR REVIEWS!

http://www.amazon.com/Open-Door-Marriage-Naleighna-Kai-ebook/dp/B00I5VFS3K

“Open Door Marriage is a page-turner from start to finish, uniquely written to explore the emotions of three people who have bonds that seem unbreakable. That is, until they are tested in a relationship that causes their families, religious leaders, and the public to be up in arms. Naleighna Kai has written a provocative novel that is about a relationship that is as complicated as it can get.” —Valarie Prince, author of Lair of the Python

“While a few books have tackled this subject in different ways, the way Naleighna Kai approaches a difficult situation is sure to be fuel for heated conversations for years to come. Open Door Marriage proves many things, but mostly that the title of my novel holds true.
—Janice Pernell, author of There’s No Right Way to do a Wrong Thing.


Excerpt from Chapter 1

THANKSGIVING – CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

NOVEMBER 22—7:23 P.M.

“You slept with my aunt?”

The words still didn’t register, even though this had to be Tori’s fifth time saying them. She glared at her fiancé, still desperately trying to come to terms with the information her mother had blasted to everyone at the packed Thanksgiving dinner table.

“Seriously? How is that even humanly possible when you didn’t know the woman four hours ago?” Tori shouted.

“Tori, l-let me explain,” Dallas stammered.

Twelve pairs of eyes were now focused on the not-quite-blissful couple standing at the bottom of the stairs just off from the dining room.

“But not here. Let’s go somewhere and talk. It’s not what you think.”

“What did you do?” Tori snapped, glaring up at Dallas. “Trip over the sheets, and your penis somehow landed in a woman nearly twice my age?”

The drumstick in Uncle Bill’s hand paused in midair on its journey to his wide mouth. Cousin Tiny’s fleshy hand flew to her overexposed bosom and came to rest somewhere above her heart. Even Tori’s father’s frozen expression of alarm would have been Three Stooges comical if the situation weren’t so tragic.

Aunt Yoli was the first to recover. “Did they just say what I think they said?”

In unison, everyone nodded.

“Girl, shut the front door and run out the back!”

A few bursts of nervous laughter sprang up around the table, but they were not nearly enough to chase away the unease that had flooded the room when Tori stepped into the house. She’d gone to drop off Aunt Rose’s drunk self at home. Tori hadn’t even been in the house good when her mother, Bernice, blurted out that she’d caught Alicia and Dallas together. Alone. In bed. In the nude. Tori had picked up from there and summed it up in one sweep. “You slept with my aunt …”

“Nothing happened, Tori,” Dallas said, his voice shaky. “I didn’t sleep with her.”

“So, my mama is lying?” Tori asked.

Dallas shifted uneasily.

“Hell naw. I know what I saw,” Bernice snapped. She had moved from the dining room table to the end of the staircase, right next to her daughter, poised as if she was ready to go to battle. “Both of you were in bed butt-ass naked.” She jabbed a finger in her sister-in-law’s direction. Alicia hadn’t moved from her spot at the top of the staircase. Probably, because she knew what was best for her. “She was butt-naked. And he was nut-naked,” Bernice yelled. “Wasn’t an inch of space between them.” She flickered a gaze a Dallas. “Look at him. You can tell he just got dressed!”

Tori closed her eyes and took deep breaths to calm the emotions that warred within her.

“See, I told you Alicia wasn’t worth a damn,” Bernice, crowed with savage satisfaction. “And looks like Mr. NBA ain’t much better. You thought he was all that and a side order of fries.”

Dallas Avery was the NBA’s most valuable player, and a man most women would give their right and left ovary to call their own. But Most Eligible Bachelor or not, he had set Tori’s bitch meter into overdrive. Even with his chiseled, handsome face, towering muscular frame and million dollar bank accounts, he was now worth next to nothing in her eyes. Too bad her aching heart didn’t get that memo.

Tori didn’t know if she was more enraged or hurt that her mother had been all too willing to drive this stake through her own daughter’s heart in order to publicly disgrace Alicia.

“Tori, we need to talk about this,” Dallas repeated before adding, “in private.”

Bernice wore a satisfied smirk as she glared openly up at Alicia, who just kept staring stoically at them from the second floor landing. “The angel of the family has fallen,” Bernice said.

“Hey, Bernice,” Bill taunted with a hearty chuckle. “Bet you won’t say that when Alicia comes downstairs. You know she’s gonna put a hurting on you.”

“You mean put another hurting on her,” Aunt Yoli added, doubling over with laughter.

Tori wanted to scream. Her life was unraveling in front of her and her family was cracking jokes.

Purchase Open Door Marriage by Naleighna Kai
Download Link:  http://amzn.com/B00I5VFS3K

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#AuthorReading: ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground by Michelle Spady

ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground
by Michelle Spady (Author)  and  Bradford Spady (Illustrator)

LISTEN TO AUTHOR READING FROM BOOK

Written in poem format, the book uses vibrant illustrations, and a good dose of positivity to encourage children to look at bullying from another perspective.

ShoozyQ and her “crew” persuade a schoolyard bully to change his behavior without being mean and abusive themselves-something that is often overlooked in books with an anti-bullying message.

The Colorful drawings and simple, effective language all tie together to make ShoozyQ an exciting read for kids, and a learning tool for parents and teachers.   There are activities at the end of the book for parents and educators to practice with the children.

‘ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground’ is available now:  http://amzn.to/1djn5r5 

ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground
General Education-Picture Book for K-4th grade
Kindle:   http://www.amazon.com/ShoozyQ-AB-Crew-Bully-playground-ebook/dp/B00J2I039Y 
Available at Amazon.com, IBooks, Kindle, IngramSparks, CreateSpace & B’Artful.com for bulk discount.

 

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Intimate Conversation with Michelle Morgan Spady

The author, Michelle Morgan Spady, is a retired child care center owner, and teacher of English and Computer Technology. Ms. Spady loves reading and writing and tells many of her stories from her memories of days in the classroom and on the playground. She says that her writings are enriched by the illustrations provided by her artist son, whose love is in creating characters for her to develop in her stories. They work as a mother and son team.

With the formation of their company, ‘B’Artful’, dedicated to promoting emerging artists and writers, and the release of their third book together, the duo are on a roll. Michelle Spady and Bradford O. Spady co-produced “An Artist and His Obsession”, “7 Days 2 Tell” and the anti-bullying tale, titled: ‘ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground’.  Ms. Spady lives in McLean, VA with her husband and son.

BPM:   What motivated you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I work with children all the time, and throughout many of my interactions with them, I am always conscious of the way they talk to each other, and the way they solve their problems.  I used to get very involved when my son would come home with stories of how he had been “over-powered” or “bullied” by some kid. One day this poem came to me, and I wrote it down.  I found some of my son’s characters that he had drawn that I thought would fit the story perfectly.  That’s what got me started on the idea of writing and publishing a book.

BPM:   What motivated you to become an indie author?
I like challenges, and I have been keeping journals for years saying that one day I was going to write a book. I still have not penned the book that I have had in my heart for years.  There is a story that I want to tell. Right now, I’d like to help my son launch his career for storytelling and drawing.

BPM:  Does your upbringing or life experiences inspire your writing?
Yes, all the books that we have published so far have some relevance to either his or my upbringing.
The book 7 Days 2 Tell is about college groups and hazing It is more about teens having to make a moral decision as to whether they should snitch on the fraternity, and what they witnessed, than it is about the act of hazing. ShoozyQ is about bullying, and An Artist and his Obsession is about relationships and friendships.

BPM:   Do you write full-time?  Do you write every day? Do you have a special time to write?
No, I wish I could write every day.  I love writing, but because of our business there is so much more to do once we’ve finished a book project.  The publishing process can be daunting, and overwhelming, then there’s the marketing.

BPM:   Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  Why?
My son, Bradford came up with the idea of his first book “An Artist…”. ShoozyQ…” and “7 Days…” were my idea.  We write about what we’re interested in.  We don’t want to be “pigeon-holed” into any one category.  He likes to draw characters first, and then write stories around them.  I help him a lot with the writing, so it is challenging for me sometimes to have to come up with a story that he has already “drawn”. He is, of course visual, and he can draw a whole story. I then  have to create the narrative. Character driven.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What separates this story from the millions of other books on the shelves? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
Well ShoozyQ and the AB Crew is a book about a group of kids who play on the playground every day, and there is a bully who taunts them.  One day ShoozyQ decides to stand up to the bully and she gathers her friends and tells them to follow her, she has an idea of how to get the bully to change his ways and just play with them instead.  Without giving away the whole book, she uses positive words.

What makes our book different is that it is “written in poem format, the book uses vibrant illustrations, and a good dose of positivity to encourage children to look at bullying from another perspective. ShoozyQ and her “crew” persuade a schoolyard bully to change his behavior without being mean and abusive themselves – something that is often overlooked in books with an anti-bullying message.

The colorful drawings and simple, effective language all tie together to make ShoozyQ an exciting read for kids, and a learning tool for parents and teachers.  We include activities so that educators can get the discussions going with children. It’s important to keep the ball rolling after the story is over, and really get to the root of what the kids have learned from ShoozyQ’s experiences.
It is available on Kindle and IBooks.

BPM:   Give us an insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
Because our characters are “cartoony” they’re very fun. My son, allows me to name them most of the time, so by the time we have completed a story we feel as though we know each one.  My favorite character in the ShoozyQ book is the little African American girl named Kiana.  She’s got personality, and she wears red cow girl boots.  I went out and bought me a pair because the character motivated me so. Actually, we have plans to promote Kiana a  little more after we get the ShoozyQ book off the ground.

BPM:  Can you outline some areas where your characters dealt with issues that are in current affairs?
In this book it’s all about bullying, even hazing is about a form of bullying. ShoozyQ shows that children on both sides of bullying incidents need help. Everyone wants to help the victim or the kid who’s been bullied, but not a lot of attention is shown to the bully or the bystander.  As adults we should openly talk to our children about bullying before it happens.  Studies show that children between 3-5 are most impressionable, and this age sets the foundation of how we will interact with people in general as we grow. Parents should never ignore bullying behaviors, and should model and teach their children about empathy, (the number one emotion most bullies lack), kindness, compassion and positivity.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
On a personal level I felt it an honor to work with my son.  He never ceases to amaze me.  He has always struggled with learning differences, and before we started working together, I did not realize how creative, and smart he really is. He knows a lot about a lot of things.  It is truly a joy to work with him.  We both challenge and learn from each other.

BPM:  What would you like for readers to take away from your writing?  How do you go about reaching new readers?
First and foremost for our last book we’d like for them to leave with a better understanding of what bullying is all about and how taking a different approach to resolving conflicts can be very beneficial to the bully, the bullied and the bystander.  I hope that the awesome illustrations that my son provides will motivate people to want to check us out.

BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career? What would you like to accomplish after the book is released?
This is like a third, maybe fourth career for me already. I was a former teacher, a systems analyst and major account sales rep in a Fortune 500 Company, and my husband and I have owned a company which once had a multi-million dollar contract with a state lottery for 13 years.  At this stage of the game, success for me is seeing my son accomplished at whatever it is he’d like to do.  We want to continue writing books for awhile and I’d like to see us accepted as serious authors and illustrator in the business. My son would like to see some of his characters in an animated featured film production.

BPM:   Where do you find your daily inspiration or muse?
 My son is my daily muse.  He is so passionate about what he loves to do, and that is drawing.  He draws from the moment he wakes up in the morning (afternoon) till the wee wee hours of the night (morning).
He makes me want to produce something, and help him.

BPM:   Were there any challenges (research, literary, psychological, and logistical) in bringing this story to life?
No, everything went pretty smoothly since this was my second self-published book.  The process wasn’t as daunting as the first, but yet challenging to dot all of your “i’s” and cross all of your “t’s”. It makes it easier when you write the story yourself, illustrate the book yourself, and publish it yourself. You have total creative control over everything.  There are some pros and cons to that.  Of course, in self-publishing you are totally responsible for the product that you put out.  The good, the bad, the ugly.  You can’t blame anyone for mistakes.  No margin for error.

BPM:   What are your expectations for this series of books?
My son is working on another book now, and we are thinking of making it a series.  As far as this one goes, we’ll just market it and its message for as long as we can.  Anti-bullying!

BPM:  What are your goals as a writer? Do you set out to educate or inspire? Entertain? Illuminate a particular subject?
My goal is to inspire other writers and my son other artists. Our business B’Artful LLC hosts workshops and events for emerging authors and artists to enhance their creative skills. We talk about it on our website.

BPM:   What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing?
I think the major advantage is that you have total control over your product. You can get it out as soon as you want or as late as you want.  The disadvantage is, if you don’t know the process you can miss some steps and then NOT have a quality product.  It is up to you to find graphic designers, editors, copyright your material, buy all that you need to publish in paperback, hardback and ebook.

BPM:  Are there any areas of your writing career that you wish you could go back and change? Any regrets?
Not yet, I do wish that I had started sooner in my life.  I think I would have many more books published by now.

BPM:  Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
Just that, if there are any parents reading this I’d like to say to them to always listen to your children.  I found some papers from when my son was in kindergarten. He wrote that he would be an artist when he grew up, and drew a picture of an artist with details. He used to draw “stick drawings”, but look at his work now.  I’d like to think a lot of his growth came from us as parents nurturing his interest in art, and it hasn’t stopped.  He’s 20 years old now, and we are still following him and his dreams. If you have a book you’re thinking of writing, don’t hesitate, go for it! You never know.

Michelle Morgan Spady, Author & Publisher B’Artful, LLC
B’Artful Website: http://www.bradspadyart.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bradspadyart

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#AuthorReading: Our Curious World of Mirror Images by Titus Joseph

Our Curious World of Mirror Images
by Titus Joseph 

LISTEN TO AUTHOR READING FROM BOOK

Titus Joseph uses mirror image symmetry to explain existence. ‘Our Curious World of Mirror Images’ combines science seamlessly with philosophy to propose new concept.

In his new book, “Our Curious World of Mirror Images: Reflections on how Symmetry Frames our Universe, Empowers the Creative Process and Provides Context to Shape our Lives” (published by Balboa Press), philosopher Titus Joseph draws on concepts from ancient philosophy, science and even religion to unveil a new model of the universe that explains how all things come into existence.

“Today, with all the advances in science, including cosmology, quantum mechanics and relativity,” Joseph says, “I am prepared to demonstrate using advanced science and philosophy, a new theory that explains how things come into existence through the curious symmetries found everywhere in nature.”

The central concept of “Our Curious World of Mirror Images” is called positional symmetry (requisite mirror image). The book begins by introducing readers to the beauty and universality of symmetry, and the paradox of duality. Joseph outlines ancient holistic philosophies, past ideas about space and time, new concepts from Einstein’s theory of relativity, and recent discoveries from the science of cosmology.

After providing a broad overview of the universe and a brief background in quantum theory, “Our Curious World of Mirror Images” explains the new concept using illustrations and examples from everyday life. The new paradigm serves as a lens to conceive how things come into being and illustrates a new holistic model of the universe, all in an accessible manner for most anyone to read. The end result reconciles many polarized views and brings considerable amounts of added meaning to life.

• Introducing a whole new way of looking at our world

• Combines science and philosophy seamlessly to explain the cosmos of space and time in an engaging way leading to a spiritual impulse

• Reconciles eastern paradigms with western views, and the intractable problem of duality that polarizes our lens on reality

• Demonstrates how all things come into being

• Provides a broad overview of the cosmos as a whole entity

• An eye-opener to the meaning of God

Chapter excerpts including graphics are available at  www.21cphilosophy.net/excerpt/ , includes the table of contents, bibliography and pages 1-10 of the book.

The Arche: Western History on Metaphysics
Excerpt 1 – [ pgs 13-14 ]

Science Rocks! It leads the way in the path of knowledge due to its many successes. Yet, even for the sciences the fundamental theories have proven to lead to very strange places. So, what of the rest of us searching for a foundation of truth? Many have discovered their own truth in astrology, numerology, the occult, or through faith is some type of spirituality. These alternative and universal types of beliefs have existed since the beginning of human history, and have enabled many different types of peoples, around the world, to feel as though their consciousness reaches beyond the physical limits of the immediate senses. These so-called “mystical beliefs” exists to provide a foundation in the form of an underlying truth in all reality.

The search for the underlying truth to reality is the holy grail of philosophy, referred to as the philosopher’s stone. It is the long sought after elixir of life. It is also the overriding goal of empirical science to determine one grand unified theory that accounts for everything in reality.

The spiritually inclined have actively turned their attention to a higher domain or for many people, an underlying principle, in the pursuit for meaningful answers to master life’s travails. This principle can be viewed as supreme, and when personified, viewed as a supreme being.

Consider that if we have something so ineffable as consciousness and intelligence in our finite seemingly meaningless lives, why not then propose of more consciousness at higher cosmic scales? The question is what would consciousness be like at cosmic scales. Well, consider that the galaxies of the cosmos are interconnected forming the cosmic web – the highest known structure in the cosmos. Inflationary theory demonstrates that the cosmic web originates from infinitesimal quantum fluctuations at the beginning of the universe.

“…in a quantum world, nothing is ever perfectly uniform because of the jitteriness inherent to the uncertainty principle…such nonuniformity can be stretched from the microworld…providing the seeds for the formation of large astrophysical bodies like galaxies (Greene, 2006, 307).

This observation by one of the world’s leading authorities on cosmology gives assent to the ancient proverb, “as above, so below.” Dr. Greene demonstrates that the highest visible structure of the universe is a direct extrapolation of the infinitesimal jitteriness that is the inherent nature of the quantum realm…Taking this observation to a natural conclusion, I see no real differences between scientific theories, as represented by Western science and justified as legitimate, and the ideas of a supreme principle that is alive and conscious does not seem alien to me, because we are alive, conscious, and intelligent, and presumably derived from this same principle.

Introducing the Wavicle
Excerpt 2 – [ pgs 56-57 ]

In the early 19th century, Thomas Young demonstrated that light acts as a wave using what is now commonly called the double slit experiment. The double slit experiment was designed by shining a beam of light at a screen with two pinholes in it. Young noticed that the light created alternating light and dark vertical stripes when it arrived on the second screen. These stripes demonstrate the waves of light spreading out from the two pinholes and overlapping with each other, creating an interference pattern. This showed that light acts as a wave.

Conversely in 1905, Albert Einstein showed that light is composed of particles that we now know of as photons. Stephen Hawking explains, There is thus a duality between waves and particles in quantum mechanics: for some purposes it is helpful to think of particles as waves and for other purposes it is better to think of waves as particles (Hawking, A Brief History of Time, 75).

In the quantum world all particles, and not just photons behave as waves, and waves can behave as particles, but there is something significant about the wavelike nature of particles. The pulse of the wave does not occur purely within an atom, but throughout the universe. Dr. Brian Greene says that an electron can also be described as a wave whose existence is spread throughout the universe (Green, The Fabric of the Cosmos, 90).

Consider the paradox in the observation that fundamental particles are simultaneously waves and thus, spread throughout the entire universe. How can this be? We can separate a drop of water from the ocean but when it is in the ocean, that drop becomes ocean. So it appears then that the wavelike behavior of fundamental particles is a feature of the quantum world, and therefore demonstrates non-spatial properties because the wavelike functions are spread throughout the universe. Yet paradoxically, particles can also be measured as a point with some specific position or speed.

The objects that we experience in daily life have spatial location. They exist in a specific place during some time. We live in a “24 hours in a day” scale of space and time. The quantum world however, has no space and no time, so events are very jittery and short-lived. Events in the quantum world have lifespans in the billionths of a second. Spacetime, therefore, is not a relevant concept in the quantum world. This means that it is very difficult to predict with precision what will happen at the subatomic level and ‘probabilities’ become more relevant than predictions. 

Dr. John Gribbin, British astrophysicist and one of the most prolific writers in science, explains:  Probability lies at the heart of the mystery of quantum reality, because the quantum world obeys strict probabilistic rules…Quantum probability can be seen to be at work at the level of individual atoms, photons and electrons (Gribbin, Q is for Quantum, An Encyclopedia of Particle Physics, 291).

Dr. Greene explains that the quantum norm is a “fuzzy hybrid reality” because it is composed of probabilities. These are possibilities that have not been realized. Take your time and pause here.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Titus Joseph. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Publisher’s website: http://www.balboapress.com

About the Author
Titus Joseph has a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy with a minor in religious studies and a Master’s degree in counseling. Mr. Joseph has worked throughout his life as a counselor and at present, he develops group homes for individuals with disabilities. Titus identifies most as a philosopher – which is to say – a lover of wisdom. Though grateful for his formal education, above all else, it’s the love of wisdom that motivates him and I think you will find out why as you read Our Curious World of Mirror Images (www.21cphilosohy.net)

Change the way you see the world!
Titus Joseph website: www.21cphilosophy.net
Facebook: Titus Joseph;  Twitter: Titus Joseph@Iamtjoseph

 

 

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#AuthorReading: He Wasn’t My Daddy by Kristin L. Mitchell

He Wasn’t My Daddy
by Kristin L. Mitchell

LISTEN TO AUTHOR READING FROM BOOK

Kristin L. Mitchell sought Daddy’s love in all the wrong places and people. Today, she is still seeking Daddy’s love. Her story will travel you down the road to her restoration through pain, anger, therapy sessions that felt like episodes of Dr. Phil, promiscuity, attempts of suicide and stints in mental wards.

He Wasn’t My Daddy takes you on a journey of exploring the effects absent fathers have on their daughters.
This book tells all. Nothing is off limits. Nothing is kept secret.

Non-Fiction – Memoir
* Fatherless Daughters
* Mental Illness
* Sexual Promiscuity
* Self Esteem

Excerpt from He Wasn’t My Daddy

“Subconsciously, I longed for a father, never knowing I was longing for a father.”

I was his baby. He took me under his wing and protected me. He was never supposed to hurt me or lie to me. I had high expectations of him. He was supposed to be my daddy, my family, the one man in my life that would love and protect me forever. He was supposed to cherish me and put me first. I trusted him completely, giving him my all and removing all barriers surrounding my heart because he said he would never hurt or forsake me. Daddies don’t do that to their little girls. However, there was just one little problem. He wasn’t my daddy.

He was my man. Without realizing it, his love was a substitution for the love I lacked from my father. Unbeknownst to him, he took my father’s place. Was it unfair? Maybe, but at the time I had no realization that the love, care and protection I required and desired from him was based on the needs of a fatherless daughter. Subconsciously, I longed for a father, never knowing I was longing for a father. Yet, little did I know that my longing would take me down a path of pain, anger, therapy sessions that felt like episodes of Dr. Phil, and stints in mental wards.

I am Kristin Mitchell. I am a fatherless daughter who looked for Daddy’s love in all the wrong places and people. Today, I am still seeking Daddy’s love. My story will travel you down the road to my restoration. It will also take you on a journey of exploring the effects absent fathers have on their daughters. This is my story. This is my road to restoration.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Kristin L. Mitchell. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

About the Author
Kristin L. Mitchell, M.Ed. is a native Washingtonian. She graduated from Spelman College and George Mason University, with high honors and degrees in education and special education. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and enjoys a career as a special education teacher with the District of Columbia Public School system.   Purchase He Wasn’t My Daddy by Kristin L. Mitchell: http://www.hewasntmydaddy.com

 

 

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Taming The Female Impostor by Dr. Sherine Vie

“Dr. Vie’s book will inspire many to change their lifestyle and way of thinking for better health, peace of mind and harmony.” – Dr. Verma, Ayurveda Doctor,  India

Ancient secrets to creating the new woman – feminine, creative and super-conscious.  She is the healing power to change the future of our Planet Earth. Coming in August, 2014. (400 pages)

Taming The Female Impostor:  Book of Secrets to Rescuing Humanity – There is a global crisis where crime, illness and unhappiness are increasing, world-wide. The Book of Secrets uses fantasy characters to unravel shocking new insights into the root cause of the problems, and reveals the Magical Weapons of Veedinti, tools to restore peace, love and joy in your personal life, in your communities, nation and the world at large. The book is ideal for men and women, from teens to seniors seeking to improve their lives in general, and especially, in the areas of sexuality, family, food, friendships, work, relaxation and introspection.  Through The Great Rescue Game (for children) and Taming the Human Impostor (for adults), you learn how to implement the tools in daily living. Dr. Vie Academy and Dr. Vie Radio Show: “Who Do You Think You Are?” stimulate further interaction.

Book Reviews for Taming The Female Impostor

“Finally! After millenniums of spiritual teachings primarily by and geared to men, teachings which have dismissed and often denigrated feminine wisdom and power, comes Dr. Vie’s much needed guidance to help women cultivate and unleash their essential spirit. And just in time, so we wisely use balance feminine-masculine energy and co-create the healthy and harmonious evolution of humankind.”~ Ellen Eatough, MA, Extatica, San Francisco

“The first word that comes to mind is inspiring. One inspiration is Dr. Vie herself who finds her own power in her extraordinary story. Another is the wisdom passed down through the Book of Secrets that tells of the power of women. We don’t always see the power in ourselves, but here in the words of this book it can be found, and self-confidence can flourish.” ~Melissa C. Water, Author, Lady Injury, Toronto

The book integrates lifes most sought after questions into a captivating tale and journey, where the reader can explore who they are, how to find true peace and the meaning of life. Dr. Vie radiates compassion, courage and love as she inspires service to humanity and our great planet.  ~Jenni Parly, Life Coach, Los Angeles

“Every once in a while there comes along a book that captivates the mind and uplifts the soul. This is one of those books. In real life Dr. Vie has managed to maneuver through global cultures with ease and finesse.  With the same level of sophistication, she weaves a tapestry of universality in her book.  Each of us has the ability to rise above our circumstance, be it racism, sexism, environmental issues or cultural and religious biases. Each of us can choose to reject change and remain the same or board the “Life Express” and embrace the change. This winning book will appeal to a wide range of audiences globally.”  ~Lena McCalla Njee, MA, Special Education, Author, Autism Inspires.  Teacher of the Year 2011-2012, Nominee -2014 Governor of the Year Award, New Jersey

“Through new insights, Dr. Vie unravels the root cause of the female global crises, and provides powerful practical tools to restore peace, health and vitality,”  ~Dr. John Gray, Author, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, San Francisco

 “I have worked all of my professional life with high performance women, whether it was a National Team, a University varsity team or our leading entertainment company. Dr. Vie is certainly an elite, high performance person regardless of the field she chooses to endeavor in to! Dr. Vie is a pioneer in each field she chooses to focus on! I’ve loved Dr. Vie SuperFoods since 2007. Now, yet again, through this book she reveals fascinating perspectives and intuitive wisdom, making it a must read, for men also.”  ~Boris Verkhovsky, Former National Acrobatics Team Head Coach, Montreal

First Chapter from Taming The Female Impostor

Ch 1. Who Do You Think You Are?

At 29,000 feet above sea level, the tranquility of the Great Himalayas took Shakti’s breath away. She had waited twenty-five years for this day, for this moment. She had been preparing her whole life for this feeling, this state of being one with her true Self.

The tiny Indian woman, slender at 45kg (99 lbs.) and barely five feet tall, perched her body cross-legged on the bare rock surrounded by an expanse of virgin snow. She drank in the beauty around her, became mindful, lowered her eyelids, and took in a deep breath through her nostrils. She held it as she focused the energy on her third eye. In that moment of silence and super-consciousness, she was one with her true identity. She became a witness of her past life and the future.

As quickly as her rollercoaster past sped before her, the future shone so brightly that it startled her delicate frame. She opened her eyes briefly, took in another deep breath, and started to soar into the oneness of the eternal existence as she began to meditate in the home of the gods and goddesses, the land of her roots. She was blissfully peaceful.

It was only last week that she was in Australia, the country of her birth, spending a quiet Sunday afternoon with her dearest mother. Shakti had not been home for ten years. While sitting at the cozy dining table, she was startled when she said something aloud. It seemed as if the words were pouring out of her being. Once the words were spoken, she knew what was going to happen. Been there, done that! She had experienced that sensation hundreds of times before. . . .

When Shakti was a little girl growing up in Melbourne, she often experienced moments where she would say certain words without much control over what she was saying. It would seem as if someone else were saying those words through her. Strangely enough, within a few months, the very words that she had spoken, like a premonition, would turn into reality. As she grew into a young woman, the time between what she said and it happening became shorter and shorter. Eventually she learned to pay closer attention to the power of her words.

So when she casually said, “Mom, we should go to India,” Shakti’s mother was not at all surprised. Parvathi was quite used to her only child’s adventurous spirit. As her mother, Parvathi had partaken of so many of her child’s amazing experiences around the planet, and she could sense that yet another was unfolding.

Within a week, the Boeing was landing in Mumbai at Chhatrapati Shivaji airport, carrying two excited women on board. Their next adventure had begun. They were in India, among over a billion people.

As Shakti sank into deep meditation high in the Himalayas, images of women, children, babies, and the elderly from around the world entered her vision. Their wretched faces were lined with tears and wrinkled with pain. She could feel their emotions, their profound hurt, and their desperate desire for change, for hope, and for salvation. She shuddered at times as the images became stronger, closer, and clearer. Mothers were carrying babies on their hips, sobbing from hunger and dying of disease.

Young girls who had been violated by their family members were crying themselves to sleep, hoping for a miracle. There were women so overweight they could barely walk without discomfort. Some of them were in motorized chairs. Other women were skeletally thin from the ravages of anorexia. Elderly women appeared fatigued by pain, suffering with brain disease and dementia. Young females were crying out, on the brink of ending their lives because of depression. The pain ripped through Shakti’s light body as the sorrow of millions and billions of individual souls entered her, sharp as knives. Oh, dear heavens above, what pain, what sorrow, what helplessness, what desperation, what cries for help she experienced in that fleeting moment! Why was there so much suffering? Where was peace?

Just as quickly, a feeling of loving warmth enveloped her, as if a new era had dawned. She witnessed, through her third eye, women of every color smiling, arms held high as if reaching for the stars, dancing to the rhythm of their cultural music. Billions of women all around the world danced. Tears of joy streamed down Shakti’s face as she continued to observe throngs of children surrounding these women, their tiny faces filled with glee, dancing in rhythm to the sways of the blissful women.

All around the unsuspecting world, this dance emerged, this vibration of peace, this feeling of complete awareness, this sense of immense super-consciousness. These women, these creators of life, these mothers of Earth, were infusing the ground, the water, the air, and the heavens with their deep vibrational energies. Their natural healing powers were changing the fertility of their lands, the safety of their water, the purity of their air, and the power of their food. They were carving out a future of wellness, peace, happiness, and love over every inch of this planet. Around them, men were joyous as they used their amazing physical strength and lifetimes of wisdom to propel and maintain this new age in which the women and children were happy and well. Together, they became one. As one source of cosmic energy, they were changing the world. Love shone bright. Bliss descended over all. There was contentment.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Dr. Vie.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

COMING TO A BOOK STORE NEAR YOU!
Read more:  http://drvie.com/tamingthefemaleimpostorsummary

Meet the Author
Born in South Africa, with roots in India,  Dr. Sherine Vie, a former Swiss-based medical device scientist changed her career to natural health after losing her father to heart disease and helping her mother recover from breast cancer. Facing heart-breaking challenges while living solo in six countries, in 2004 Dr. Vie Research pioneered Dr. Vie SuperFoods™ in the North Americas, & since 2007 Dr. Vie SuperKids mentors children & recently, Dr. Vie Academy with Dr. Vie Radio helps all ages globally. Dr. Vie is focused on restoring the link between humanity, nature and the source of all life. Dr. Vie is a mountain-lover and has trekked many ranges including the Himalayas.

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My Wife My Baby…And Him by Shelia E. Bell

My Wife My Baby…And Him by Shelia E. Bell  is a top 25 Black Expressions book.

In the fifth installment of the My Son’s Wife series, Senior Pastor Stiles Graham and First Lady Detria Graham s marriage is rapidly falling apart, thanks to her adulterous ways. Stiles had hoped and prayed that the time they spent away from Memphis would make their marriage stronger, but after just months from returning from Myrtle Beach, Stiles questions whether that is truly the case.When whats done in the dark comes to light, and Stiles discovers that Detria is cheating on him with his good friend, Skip Madison, the marriage quickly unravels. This startling revelation brings out the worse in Stiles Graham, and leads to his eventual downfall.

During the midst of it all, Detria learns that she is pregnant. As much as she wanted to steer clear of Skip Madison and give her marriage to Stiles a fighting chance, her heart says something different. Now she finds herself worried about who is the father of her unborn child. Turmoil, trouble, deception and disaster infiltrate this marriage, and much is at stake, including Stiles pastoral position at Holy Rock.

When tragedy strikes this already dysfunctional marriage, it sends life, as they know it spiraling down a never-ending tunnel of hurt, anger and grief, leaving both Stiles and Detria questioning their faith and belief in God to restore their lives and relationship.

Book Review for My Wife My Baby…And Him
USA Today Top Recommended Read. Here is what HEA Contributor Michelle Monkou had to say about the book:
“Why you should read it: When I’m ready to squeeze the living daylights out of certain characters, I’m ready to call the book clubs’ attention to this book recommendation. Lipsey (Bell) writes seriously flawed characters with such realism that they deserve their just desserts. This is Christian faith fiction with powerful lessons to be learned and talked about even after the book is closed. Great drama that makes those pages turn. Lipsey (Bell) will not disappoint.”

Excerpt from My Wife My Baby…And Him 

“Whatever is begun in anger ends in shame.” Benjamin Franklin

Stiles sat alone in his office at Holy Rock. It had been two and a half weeks since the incident between him and Detria. After his picture was blasted all over the news, Internet, and God only knows where else, Stiles realized he had some tough decisions to make about his marriage, his pastoral position, and his life overall.

He was due back in court the following week. His lawyer believed that everything would be resolved, and he would be able to move on with his life.

He had prayed, talked to Hezekiah, and absolutely sought his father’s guidance, but he still wasn’t any closer to knowing what he should do. Should he give it all up? This was the church that his father had built and now because of him and Detria’s dirty laundry being aired all over the city, he was between a rock and a hard place. The last thing he wanted to do was destroy everything Pastor had spent his life building.

Stiles rubbed his hand over his head, then put his elbow on his mahogany desk, made a fist, and rested his tilting head against it. He began praying out loud.

“Father God, what am I to do? I need you. I need you now. Give me direction.” A tear formed in the crest of his left eye. “I was wrong. I didn’t practice self-control. I let my flesh bring me down and now look at me.” He looked up toward the ceiling and tears flowed down his face. Lifting both hands upward, he kept praying, pleading with God to show him the way.

A light knock on the door came and Stiles slowly lowered his head and hands. Reaching to his left, he opened the top drawer and pulled out a hand towel and began wiping his tear streaked face.

Knock, Knock.

“Pastor Graham. You in there?” Hezekiah stood outside Stiles’ office. He felt bad for the guy. What Stiles and Detria were going through made him and Fancy’s problems seem miniscule.

Hezekiah understood what it felt like to become enraged, to get so mad and angry that you lose all sense of reasoning and for a moment, that nano second, you could very well cross over to the ‘no return’ zone. Only by the grace of God do the angels of the Lord hold you back and give you clarity of mind. Just in the nick of time. Yeah, Hezekiah understood that, but Hezekiah never exhibited that unbridled anger toward Fancy. That type of anger was once reserved for whoever he had to fight off when he lived in Cabrini-Green. Back then, he had to do whatever it took just to survive and come up out of those projects alive.

God had been faithful, and he heard the cries of Hezekiah to save him. Since that day, he believed in God, but the streets of Chicago didn’t care what he believed. The streets kept calling his name. When he first met Fancy, almost right away she became a ride or die girl, totally faithful and ready to stand by him, at any costs.

“Umm,” Stiles cleared his throat, got up, walked from behind his desk, and to the door. He opened the door and nodded at Hezekiah,

“Come on in,” he said somberly, taking a half step backward. He turned, walked back to his desk, and sat back down.

“How are you, Pastor Graham?” Depending on where the two men were, what they were talking about, and what they were doing, determined how they addressed one another. If they were talking about the Grizzlies or something that was going on in the city, they definitely addressed each other like buds, calling each other by their first names. Otherwise, they addressed one another by their ministerial titles.

Today, things were more serious than Hezekiah could ever imagine, especially coming from Stiles, who he and countless others at Holy Rock, and in the community, respected as a stand-up man and a dynamic preacher. In Hezekiah’s eyes, Stiles remained that same person, no matter what the first lady had accused the man of doing.

Hezekiah, having come from the streets, considered himself wise to the game, meaning he could see right through Mizz Detria ‘The First Lady’ Graham. Stiles was blind to the fact, but right from the beginning, when he and Fancy first officially met her, Hezekiah had told Fancy, “Don’t let her get too close. Something about her isn’t right. Something about her spirit.”

His spirit of discernment rarely led him wrong. Hezekiah wasn’t aimed on getting Stiles off the hook for what he’d done to Detria. His mission was to help Stiles get his name cleared. If that meant stepping up and becoming interim Senior Pastor until the dust settled with Stiles, well, he would just have to do that. Hezekiah relished at the thought: Hezekiah McCoy, Senior Pastor Holy Rock Church and the lovely First Lady Fancy McCoy. He pulled himself out of his daydream and refocused on Stiles.

Stiles fumbled with the pages of the open Bible on his desk then looked up at Hezekiah. “I can’t say how I’m doing. You tell me. What’s the latest poll? How many members want me out of here?”

Hezekiah pursed his lips, closed the door, entwined his hands behind his back, and stepped further into Stiles’ office. 

“All I can say is that it seems like the church is torn. Half of the members want you to stay. They say that it had to be a good reason for you to snap the way you did. Then you know there are the other ones who say you should go to jail for what you did, and you need to step down as pastor.”

Stiles looked at Hezekiah with sad eyes. “I messed up. I really messed up.”

( Continued… )
© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Shelia E. Bell.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

Meet the Author
Shelia E. Bell, formerly known as “Shelia E. Lipsey” and also known as God’s Amazing Girl, is a nationally acclaimed, multi-award winning author with fifteen titles to her credit thus far. She was bestowed the 2013 OOSA Book Club Female Author of the Year Award; 2012 Disilgold Magazine Editor’s Choice Book Award for four of her ten titles; nominated for a 2013 and 2012 Christian Literary Award by Joy and Company; recipient of 2011 Book Clubs Unite Literary Award; 2011 Kindle Awards for Literary Contribution; 2010 Pink Diamond Literary Award; 2009 SORMAG Readers’ Choice Awards for My Son’s Wife, 2009 Black Pearls Magazine Top Book Shelf Award, 2009 Urban Reviews Top Shelf Award and 2008 Author of the Year by Conversations Book Club.

Shelia is the founder of BWABC (Black Writers And Book Clubs) Literacy Festival (www.bwabcliteracyfestival.com), acquisitions editor for Bonita And Hodge Publishing Group, LLC (www.bonitaandhodgepublishing.com).

She is a sought after inspirational speaker who shares messages of empowerment and overcoming obstacles with audiences all over the USA. Visit her website:  Sheliaebell.net.  Explore more books:   http://sheliaebell.net/books/

Purchase My Wife My Baby…And Him by Shelia E. Bell
Genre: Contemporary women’s fiction,  and dramatic faith-based fiction

Amazon – http://www.amazon.com/My-Wife-Baby-Him-Sons-ebook/dp/B00INIB57S
BN.com – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-wife-my-babyand-him-shelia-e-lipsey/1118597662

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For the Sake of Love by Dwan Abrams

Spade Spencer’s life seems to be coming together. He’s engaged to be married to the love of his life, Bria Murray, and he’s an up and coming rapper who recently signed a major record deal. When Spade gets diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, rather than lean on his fiancée for strength, he calls off the wedding, leaving Bria feeling alone and rejected.

In an effort to move on with her life, Bria pours her energy into running her new company, The Spa Factory. Kerryngton Kruse, CEO of the record label that signed Spade, begins to pursue Bria romantically. Bria finally allows herself to develop feelings for Kerryngton, only to discover that Spade has different plans. Caught in the middle of a love triangle, Bria must make the difficult decision between love and money. Does she follow her heart and marry the one she can’t live without, or does she marry for security, in hopes that love will eventually follow?

Excerpt:  For the Sake of Love by Dwan Abrams

When they returned, Chance had freshened up and changed clothes. They were right on-time for one of Chance’s corny jokes.

“Knock, knock,” Chance said.

“Who’s there?” Nya and Kola said in unison.

“Doris.”

“Doris who?” They continued to indulge him.

“Doris locked; that’s why I’m knocking.”

As lame as Bria thought that was, Chance’s joke actually got a chuckle out of her.

“Ready to grub?” Chance asked.

“Yeah,” Bria answered, patting Chance’s oversized belly. “I can see that you’ve been doing a little bit too much grubbin’.”

“As long as my pookie butt likes it, it’s all good.” He gave Nya a hug and kiss on the cheek.

“Negro, please. Your plump behind better go to the gym before you run, I mean walk, around here looking as fat and bloated as the Goodyear Blimp,” Bria said.

“Are you going to let her talk to me like that?” he said to Nya. He turned his face up and stared at her.

“Just call me Switzerland. I’m neutral,” she said.

“That’s right thickalicious.” She acted like he was the Pillsbury Doughboy and poked his belly with her finger. “Now what?”

“Why don’t you take the Tyson approach and bite me?”

“Too much grease and blubber is bad for my cholesterol. “I’ll have to pass on biting you today. Thank you just the same.”

“Kids, kids, please,” Nya interjected.

Kola and Spade were busy cracking up laughing.

“Let’s eat,” Nya said.

They went in the kitchen and fixed their plates. The food smelled delectable. They said grace and then ate until they got the ‘itis.’ The food was so good that the only sounds being made were chewing and finger licking.

When Chance finished eating, he said, “Now I got the black people syndrome.” He rubbed his stomach.

They laughed and Spade added, “I feel ya.”

“Anybody want dessert?” Nya offered while clearing the table. She and Bria usually ate a scoop of vanilla ice cream after dinner.

“Not right now,” Chance said.

“None for me,” Spade echoed that sentiment.

“What cha got?” Kola asked.

“Ice cream or cake?” Nya told her.

“I’ll take a slice of cake, but I can get it.” She pushed her chair back and got up.  The ladies went in the kitchen and fixed their desserts. They returned to the table already eating their sweet treats.

“I don’t know how you all have the room,” Chance said. “I feel like a stuffed pig.”

“And you look like one too.” Bria couldn’t resist. She burst out laughing. In between laughs she managed to say, “I’m just kidding.” Bria realized that in the presence of a stranger her teasing may seem a bit harsh, but that’s just how she and Chance have always interacted. Chance mean mugged her.

“You’ll get used to these two,” Nya said to Kola. “They act like real brother and sister.”

(  Continued…  )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Dwan Abrams.  Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Sake-Love-Urban-Books/dp/1601627440

Barnes & Noble
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/for-the-sake-of-love-dwan-abrams/1110623648

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The Bishop by Patricia G. Pope

Bishop Sullivan B. Kirk, a charismatic and wildly popular church leader, is challenged beyond the comfort zone of his well-ordered and successful lifestyle when two young boys, a vengeful father, and the transparency of truth all converge to bring Babylon to his doorstep.

After years of successfully providing educational and recreational programs for numerous underprivileged pre-teen and teenage boys, the secrets, lies and deceptions that Bishop Sullivan B. Kirk has worked hard to shield from everyone, is now about to destroy his well-ordered and successful lifestyle; and, possibly, land him in jail. Two of his most trusted young followers, now of the age of consent, have come forth to announce that they have been sexually abused by Bishop Kirk since they were young boys in the Bishop’s care. And they have hired one of the city’s most formidable attorneys to sue the Bishop for a huge amount of punitive and financial damages.

Jabazz Williams, a senior youth leader and paid employee of Bishop Kirk’s Walking in Faith Church, and Antwan Graham, his best friend, have recently been cast aside by the Bishop in favor of younger boys. They can’t get the Bishop to return their phone calls; he refuses to have anything more to do with them, and they are angry. Together, they agree that it is time to “bring the Bishop down.” After all, they have been with the Bishop since they were five or six years old; and they know what the Bishop has been up to, then and now. Lately, they have come to see the Bishop for who and what he really is—a pedophile.

Charismatic and popular, Bishop Kirk is head of one of Atlanta’s largest and most successful Black churches; and he is not about to allow his young accusers to bring down his empire and ruin his name and reputation. But what the Bishop does not know is that others are beginning to suspect the same truth about him; including Josh Crenshaw, owner of Titan Arms Security, the firm that provides personal bodyguard and protective services to the Bishop. Josh’s best friend and business partner, Devon Spencer, is even more committed to blowing the whistle on the Bishop, even if it means the potential loss of the services contract with the Bishop; or of jeopardizing his relationship with Josh.

For nearly ten years, Josh Crenshaw has quietly managed to look the other way in order to maintain his lucrative contractual obligations as head of security, as well as his loyalty to the Bishop. But, lately, sparked by his fiancée Wendy’s concerns about the rumors swirling around the Bishop’s activities with young boys, Josh is becoming increasingly concerned that what he knows might place his personal integrity at risk; not to mention the possible legal ramifications that could ensue.

Devon Spencer, on the other hand, possesses no conflicts about his willingness to see justice done by blowing the whistle on Bishop Kirk. So he offers his support to Jabazz and Antwan, and the stage is set for a confrontation that threatens to involve the entire Black community of Atlanta. Along with Darryl Sawyer, another former favorite of the Bishop, the four of them present their case to Attorney Judy Goldberg, and the stage is set for a potentially dirty and vehement confrontation.

Once the matter is settled, Jabazz’ estranged father, consumed with guilt for abandoning Jabazz and his mother when his son was a baby, vows to avenge his son’s treatment at the hands of the Bishop; plotting to take matters into his own hands. In his drug-induced state, he sets out to confront the Bishop, in what may prove to be a lethal and inevitable climax.

DISCLAIMER: This book is based on some true events, however, has been fictionalized and all persons appearing in this work are fictitious. Any resemblance to real people, living or dead is entirely coincidental.

Excerpt from THE BISHOP by Patricia Pope
Wendy one of the female characters in the novel has come to a crossroad in her life where she has run out of options!

She promised Jesus and all the saints that if she could survive this deadly sin, she would turn her life around forever. She promised that she would make a choice and stand by that choice under all circumstances. That choice would be God. She needed just one more chance. A chance to stand.

The fourth week of fasting from drugs, food and praying, she opened her email and the results of her HIV test stated: negative. One other line warning her to be tested again in six months seemed irreverent but she understood to be necessary. She sensed the tender voice of Jesus as she had not experienced before and a realization that held her steadfast.

The Holy Spirit touches the heart and the mind, the spirit and the soul of those called. No man, no demon or any form of command can change that or control God’s will. Falling to her knees for a second time, she thanked him for replacing her fear with faith. She went into drug rehab that afternoon. Because it was her third trip to rehab, she was placed on the outer perimeter somewhere near London’s mountain range in a therapeutic community.
http://patriciapope.com/thebishop/readmore/#.U9w5pWNZhAc

(  Continued…  )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of  Dwan Abrams on behalf of Patricia Pope, the author.  Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

Purchase from Smashwords
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/441046  

Meet the Author
Patricia G. Pope is an award-winning author, featured speaker, and celebrated freelance journalist.

A sought after speaker, Patricia was referred to as a “younger Maya Angelou,” during a book signing and a CBS affiliated filming in Harrisburg, PA. She responded by stating “Having my name in the same sentence with Maya Angelou is all-inspiring. Maya Angelou is of royalty in the literary world and the world of humanity.”

Patricia is the holder of many awards and medals with a degree in Drug Management and Supervision. She studied drama in Los Angeles, CA including a two year stint with Jed Horner at Screens Gems. She is a retired Federal employee and is noteworthy as the first black, female, minority to be promoted within the ranks of the Public Safety Service. She views writing as her “go to” stress reliever.

“Colored Waiting Room”, which deals with the conflict of a Black female entangled with the good ole boy system in rural East Tennessee, is an award wining novel and has received rave reviews. A second novel, “The Bishop”, recently released, examines misconduct and misconceptions within the wall of modern day churches. Both novels have been optioned for major movies with “Colored Waiting Room” currently in development.

Awards: Mary Walker Foundations Image Award, Forensic Award, Black History Month Honoree, Bessie Smith Foundation Honoree, Operation Push Honoree, Honoree of Positive Minds Book Club, Honoree of Friends of Black Children

Patricia G. Pope Contact Info
http://www.patriciapope.com
http://thebishopthebook.com
http://coloredwaitingroom.com

FRONT COVER USE
Reference: The Bishop

CREDIT: Image copyright © The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Image source: Art Resource, NY May have restrictions.
Image copyright © The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Image source: Art Resource, NY
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY, U.S.A.

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ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground by Michelle Spady

ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground

by Michelle Spady (Author)  and  Bradford Spady (Illustrator)

Written in poem format, the book uses vibrant illustrations, and a good dose of positivity to encourage children to look at bullying from another perspective.

ShoozyQ and her “crew” persuade a schoolyard bully to change his behavior without being mean and abusive themselves-something that is often overlooked in books with an anti-bullying message.

The colorful drawings and simple, effective language all tie together to make ShoozyQ an exciting read for kids, and a learning tool for parents and teachers.   There are activities at the end of the book for parents and educators to practice with the children.

Purchase ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground

Kindle Edition
ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground
Link: http://amzn.com/B00J2I039Y

Paperback Edition
ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground
Link: http://amzn.com/0991460014
General  Education-Picture Book for K-4th grade
Available at Amazon.com, IBooks, Kindle, IngramSparks, CreateSpace & B’Artful.com for bulk discount.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR

Michelle M. Spady & Bradford O. Spady:  The Mother and son team co-produced the anti-bullying tale.  Mrs. Spady is a former school teacher and child care center owner.  Mr. Spady is a cartoonist and character designer attending art school.  Together they formed their company B’Artful, dedicated to promoting emerging artists and writers. This is their fourth book project together.

Simply Spare Time Founder and Executive Director, Michelle Morgan Spady, believes that every moment in a child’s life is precious. With an entrepreneur’s passion to succeed and a desire to make a difference in the lives of children, Michelle first launched her childcare enterprise in 1999. An in-home state-licensed center, SpayTech Children’s Academy (DBA  Afterschool.com) served children from infancy to five years. Immediately, Michelle’s childcare program became recognized as “state-of-the-art.” Featuring a strong academic curriculum, Michelle provided her young chargers with an introduction to technology. Enthusiastic word of mouth resulted in a waiting list, and her innovative early program has now graduated into Simply Spare Time, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to stimulating the imagination of children and teens, through programs, and activities that help them to grow mentally, physically and socially.

Michelle attended Virginia State College, and graduated from the University of Utah with a BA in English and a minor in Business Education.  After graduation, not sure if she wanted to teach, she completed a course in real estate.  And later, to keep up with the “changing times” studied and completed two years of Instructional Technology at George Mason University.

An avid educator with over 25 years of experience, the resident of McLean, Va. has held professional teaching licenses in Virginia, Louisiana and Utah. Her subjects include English, reading, and computer technology.  Her creativity, unique approach to learning, and love of teaching, has brought her distinguished recognition, such as a nomination from one of her schools for the Arlington Public School’s “Teacher of the Year” Award.

With a hunger for what it would be like to work for a major corporation, Michelle left teaching for a while and went to work for a major Fortune 500 company as a Network Systems Analyst, and  a short stint as a Major  Accounts Sales Representative. Upon completion of her first year at the company, she was awarded the, “Systems Analyst of the Year” award by her manager and team.

Michelle and her husband, Arnett suffered the loss of a 9 month old son to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome while at his baby sitter.  In her grief during this horrific tragedy, she became a long time, award-winning advocate for SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) research; Michelle is also a former President and spokesperson for the National SIDS Alliance. Once, on behalf of the Alliance, she substituted for actor Lloyd Bridges and his wife and gave a moving  testimony before the Senate Appropriations sub-committee requesting  millions of dollars for the continued  research of SIDS through NICHD. Still yearning to be parents, Michelle and Arnett later went through the Black Adoption Project with Fairfax County and adopted an infant son (their only child) who is now a junior at Langley High School. Their son diagnosed later, with Asperger’s Syndrome, introduced Michelle to another aspect of education, Special Education, and further extended her passion and love for children with special needs.

Michelle’s first taste of the “entrepreneurial” bug came when she and her husband learned of a potential opportunity for a lottery in the state of VA.  Together with two other relatives, they formed a company and named it GOVA, Inc. (Games of Virginia).  They formed a team of experts that helped them to form a partnership, and sub-contract with one of the largest gaming companies in the country. GOVA, Inc. was awarded the service and training contract with the VA State Lottery for what would become a 12 year partnership. Michelle served as VP of the company and oversaw the daily operations.  She managed all aspects of the contract, and met monthly with the VA State Lottery team to insure implementation of the multi-million dollar award, with fidelity.

Michelle is a faithful member of Shiloh Baptist Church, McLean where she is VP and sings in the choir, her husband is a Trustee and her son a Jr. Usher. She and her husband were co-chairs for Shiloh’s 135th Anniversary which brought together the Mclean community and many local and state leaders and officials.

Michelle is now working on her “bucket list”.  She is taking vocal lessons, and has dusted off the family’s piano. Other items on the list include opening a recreational center for youths and writing a book.

Some of her other accomplishments of impact include:

•    Designed, and implemented  “Mobilizing the Masses” A health forum, dealing with women and children’s health issues held on Capitol Hill involved leading politicians and community.

•    Spearheaded a “Boyz to Men” workshop with participation of leading members of the U.S. House of Representatives to focus on issues dealing with minority male teens. The workshop gathered over 100 teen boys from the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area as well as House Majority Whip and other key members of Congress.

•    Designed, initiated and implemented a summer VA College and university tour for African-American male teens.  Program dubbed “The B.A.R. Academy”. (Boys about Art & Reading). The B.A.R. Academy brought together local male teens from McLean, Reston, Herndon, Maryland and Washington, D.C. Supported students financially challenged. Students met with prominent physicians at Johns Hopkins University, and Presidents of universities.

•    Organized a community trip to  Alex Haley’s home and the National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis, TN. Personally supported students who were financially challenged.

•    Partnership with the Allen Etiquette Institute to teach classes to teen girls in Washington, DC summer work program.

CURRENT PROJECTS INCLUDE

•    Planning a trip during summer of 2011 for students to participate in Disney’s YES (Youth Education Series) program to “give students real-world learning experiences at Disney Theme Parks and provide newfound insights, skills and knowledge to motivate and inspire students.”

•    Co-Chairing a fundraising campaign for the National Kidney Transplant Foundation to help a friend who needs a kidney.

•    Re-launching her “for profit” business After-school.com!

NOTABLE AFFILIATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS

•    The Links, Incorporated-Appointed-Eastern Area Director for Services-to-Youth Facet—Oversaw 75 chapters in the Eastern Area.  Each chapter responsible for community service and outreach and mentoring to youths in their communities.

•    National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc.-President (Elected) (three terms)  National President’s Leadership Award for community service

•    Jack and Jill of America, Inc.-Team leader and coordinator for children’s activities

•    Son’s School’s PTA’s and PTO’s

•    McLean Chamber of Commerce-Member

NOTABLE PAST AWARDS, ACHIEVEMENTS & RECOGNITION

•    Alpha Kappa Alpha-Human Mankind Award for health and community service to youth
•    Sudden Infant Death Syndrome-President’s Award – Testified before Senate Appropriations committee on behalf of SIDS and NICHD requesting funding for SIDS research in amount of $17 million-grant awarded
•    TV Interview with SIDS team on Tom Brokaw Nightly News
•    Home interview with Discovery Channel for SIDS
•    SIDS Survival Guide for Parents-Authored and submitted two articles for publication
•    Marian Wright Edelman STAND FOR CHILDREN award for participation
•    She has received numerous local and national awards for her outstanding leadership and advocacy on behalf of women and children’s issues.

Michelle’s “KEYS FOR SUCCESS”
•    Integrity
•    Respect
•    Ethical Behavior
•    Positive Thinking
•    Loyalty
•    Work & Family
•    Empowerment

Michelle Morgan Spady, Author & Publisher B’Artful, LLC
B’Artful Website:  http://www.bradspadyart.com
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bradspadyart

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Excerpt: Troublemaker by Trice Hickman

Every joy has its challenges. . .

After twenty years, childhood best friends Alexandria Thornton and PJ Brightwood have reunited–and fallen in love. Alex’s artistic nature as a spoken word artist, and PJ’s success as a talented surgeon promise a bright future. But their happiness brings unexpected complications for those they care about most. . .

A devoted wife, loving mother, and successful businesswoman, Victoria Thornton is a pillar of her suburban Atlanta community. But when her daughter, Alexandria, becomes engaged to the son of Victoria’s former lover, her past mistake threatens her orderly life. As the impending marriage reunites both families, it reignites old feelings that test all of their relationships–and all of their boundaries. . .

Praise for the Unexpected Love Series

“Trice Hickman is an amazing writer and storyteller!” –Kimberla Lawson Roby

“Looking for Trouble is a fantastic saga about family, friendship, love, status and destiny.” –RT Book Reviews

“A humorous and entertaining novel.” –Urban Reviews on Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies

“Hickman hits all the high notes in this charming modern romance where love and loyalty trump race.” –Publishers Weekly (starred review) on Unexpected Interruptions

Read an Excerpt from Troublemaker by Trice Hickman

CHAPTER 1

Allene

“You can never go wrong doin’ right” Allene Small whispered to herself as she thought about the events that were about to unfold. She couldn’t count the number of times she’d repeated those words during the nine decades she’d lived on earth, or in the six that she’d spent as a spirit waiting to reemerge into the world she’d once known.

Allene had enjoyed a rich, full life in her day. She’d experienced ups and downs, joys and heartbreak, and eventually, the calm peace that living ninety-eight years had brought her. She’d been widowed at a young age, outliving her beloved husband and eventually all her siblings and her children, as well as some nieces and nephews. She’d witnessed fiery crosses burning in the night, emblazoned with hatred and fear. She’d endured oppression before joining activists who fought for justice, civil rights, and social change. She’d watched one decade roll into the next as presidents and heads of state came and went, by consequence of elections or death. And she’d seen men ride in horses and buggies, fly planes in the sky, drive motorized vehicles along busy streets, and then miraculously walk on the moon.

Allene felt grateful and blessed to have lived long enough to experience things that many had not. She was also thankful that for as long as she could remember, she’d known an invaluable truth most couldn’t fathom—that there was life after life. The peace she’d found in that knowledge had comforted her during times of trouble.

Now as she sat in her trusty old rocking chair, surveying the colorful flowers that graced the large wrap-around porch where she’d been sitting all morning, her heart held excitement and caution about what she knew lay ahead. She took a deep breath and inhaled the sweet fragrance of the rose, azalea, and magnolia bushes flanking the front of the house. “This old place sure ’nuff has stood the test of time,” she said with a smile. “Isaiah and Henrietta would be right proud, God rest their souls.”

Allene loved being back in Nedine, South Carolina, the small town where she’d lived out the best parts of her days. She looked out as far as her eyes could see, noting that while some things had changed, so many had remained steadfastly the same. The large, white placard displaying THE SMALL PROPERTY in black calligraphy still towered at the edge of the road a few hundred feet away, announcing to visitors that they had reached the grounds of the grand residence that her son, Isaiah Small, had built from the ground up.

At the time, Isaiah’s had been one of the largest homes in Nedine as well as the two surrounding counties, and today it proudly continued to hold that distinction. This was a huge feat for a black man, then and now. After Isaiah died, Allene had moved from her tiny house a few miles up the road, and settled into the quiet comfort of living with Isaiah’s devoted widow, Henrietta, whom Allene had loved as her own daughter.

After Henrietta passed away, John, Isaiah’s and Henrietta’s son, cared for the house with great love and attention. Even though John had moved away to Raleigh, North Carolina, to start a banking empire and carry on in his father’s successful footsteps, he’d made sure to preserve the family homestead where he’d been born and had many fond memories of growing up. Several times a year, John, along with his wife, Elizabeth, and their daughter, Victoria, would return to Nedine to make sure the house was well maintained and that any necessary repairs were made.

once John’s age and declining health prevented him from making trips to his beloved hometown, he’d hired a property management company to oversee the upkeep. After his death, his daughter, Victoria, had picked up the torch and seen to it that her father’s birthplace was kept in good order. Allene was proud that her son’s legacy was still intact, along with much of the land, rental properties, and other real estate holdings that had been passed down from one generation to the next.

“They’re all gonna be here soon. Even the ones who ain’t supposed to come,” Allene said with reserve. “But then again, I reckon that ain’t such a bad thing, ’cause nothin’ happens by mistake. There’s a plan for everything, we just gotta play it out to the end.”

Allene nodded to herself as she looked up into the gray, stormy sky. It had been raining nonstop since early this morning. Heavy at times and light at others. Allene felt happy every time she heard the pitter-patter sound and the fresh smell that God’s liquid glory created in its wake. She remembered back to the days she’d spent in her tiny home, and how she’d loved to listen to the rain dance atop her roof and beat against her windows. The natural rhythm had been soothing, and always made her feel a sense of peace—as if whatever had been wrong could be made right by the water that came and washed things away.

Allene wished so badly that the rain could clear out the troubles awaiting her family. Having the gift of prophecy, she was able to see some of the challenges that were on the horizon, and the struggles her loved ones were surely going to face. She wanted to intervene by warning them of what was coming, and tell them what they needed to do in order to avoid the problems heading their way. But age, wisdom, and experience had taught her that some things couldn’t be interfered with, or manipulated. Only time, patience, and living through the situation could rectify whatever was wrong.

This was why Allene knew that choosing to do the right thing would never lead her down the wrong path. She’d been a witness to situations that had borne out that evidence time and time again, and she knew without a doubt that bad intentions could easily lead to devastating consequences. Conversely, she also knew that if one had good intentions and did what was fair and just, regardless of the circumstances, things would eventually unfold into a favorable outcome.

Allene knew that some of her family members were carrying heavy burdens, and to her disappointment, one in particular was plotting a hidden agenda, heading in the wrong direction by ignoring what was right. “Lord, help me guide Alexandria so she can help our family,” she whispered aloud, looking up into the sky. “I waited a mighty long time to come back, and now, I’m ready. I just hope they’re ready, too.”

It had been nearly a year since Allene had first made her spirit form known to anyone in the land of the living. She’d reached out to Alexandria, her great-great-granddaughter, because she’d known it was time to make contact. Alexandria was a special young woman, who, like Allene, and Allene’s great-grandmother before her, possessed the gift of prophecy.

The gift of prophecy was a precious ability that had been passed down through the generations, only by way of the female members of their family, dating back to the Akan people of Ghana, West Africa. The gift was a sacred and valued treasure that people both revered and feared within Allene’s family, as well as the outside community.

During Allene’s lifetime, her gift had allowed her to foretell events in advance of them happening. She could discern good from bad in the blink of an eye. She could sense when danger was approaching or when peace would prevail. She knew people’s thoughts without ever having to engage them in conversation. And she could accurately declare good fortune or disappointing loss for those seeking her advice on any given situation.

Now as a spirit in the land of flesh and blood, she possessed those same abilities along with the added benefit of being able to exist between two worlds. Allene walked within the supernatural realm, able to communicate with others who shared the gift, like her great-grandmother, Susan. Even though she was able to see family and friends who’d passed on, she couldn’t communicate with them unless they possessed the gift of prophecy. The living world was much the same way, only there, things were more complicated because life was still happening, unfolding in real time, which always presented challenges.

After years of patiently watching and waiting, Allene was glad when the time finally came that she could return to the world she’d once known. She was there to help Alexandria, who had struggled with her abilities for most of her life, but had now come to terms with the extraordinary gift she’d inherited. Just as Susan Jessup had been Allene’s guide on her life’s journey, it was now Allene’s turn to do the same for Alexandria.

Allene continued to watch the sky and listen to the rain fall as she thought about what was going to happen two weeks from now. She could see the blessings, as well as the trouble that was going to ensue once everyone gathered under one roof. Tempers would flare and hearts would be hurt by deception. Long-held secrets were going to be revealed, weaknesses would be exposed, and a devious plot to steal and control was going to be uncovered. Allene could also see that there would be heated moments and tension between family members and friends.

“Sometimes people just got to go through things in order to make a change,” Allene said to herself.

She knew that hearts, minds, and loyalties would be tested when her family came together for a grand celebration two weeks from now, and unfortunately, someone was going to meet their demise before the weekend came to an end.

“I’ll see you soon, baby girl,” Allene whispered into the air, sending words of love and comfort to Alexandria. “You just hang in there and know that everything’s gonna be all right.”

CHAPTER 2

Alexandria

Alexandria smiled as she stretched her long, shapely legs across PJ’s buttery-soft leather sofa. “Now that I’ve finished cooking, it’s time to relax” she said aloud. She ran her fingers through the mass of thick curls atop her head and let out a deep breath of relief, glad she was finally able to relax after her long day. She’d been busy from the moment she’d stepped out the door this morning with a coffee mug in one hand and a toasted bagel in the other. Her life had been more hectic in the last year than she could ever remember. So much was changing so fast, but with that change she felt the hope and excitement of new possibilities that lay ahead.

She breathed a sigh of relief when she thought about the fact that this Friday would be her last day of work at a job she’d dreaded since the day she’d started. She was an attorney, on the fast track, employed with the prestigious downtown Atlanta law firm of Johnson, Taylor, and Associates. Alexandria had worked there since she’d interned with them while still in law school. Now, six years later, she was ready to step out of what she’d been academically trained to do, and take hold of the direction in which her heart had always led her, which was to pursue her passion as a writer and spoken-word artist.

Alexandria thought about her promising future as she lay on her back and flipped through one of her many bridal magazines. Even though her wedding day was just one month away, and all the major details had been planned to a tee, she still couldn’t resist looking at pictures of happy couples, replete with bountiful flowers and their wedding parties in tow, all overflowing with nuptial bliss.

Alexandria smiled every time she thought about how happy she was and how much her life had significantly changed since this time last year. It seemed as though it were just yesterday that she’d broken up with her old boyfriend, Peter, and in less than twenty-four hours, fate, along with her grandma Allene’s sage advice, had led her down a completely different path to peace, understanding, and true love. Now she was engaged to PJ, her childhood best friend who’d walked into her life and changed her world.

She could still remember her grandma Allene’s words. Speak what’s in your heart. Say what it is that you desire, and watch it walk into your life.

Alexandria had heeded those words and still lived by them today. She knew that speaking what she wanted, and then trusting and believing with indomitable faith that her desires would be met in abundance, was the reason PJ was in her life. As she looked at the beautiful gowns of silk and tulle, she raised her hand in the air, as if in praise, and gave thanks for her blessings. “Amen,” she said quietly.

She was thankful for this joyous time in her life, and she planned to savor every moment because she was all too aware of the trouble that was lying in wait on the other side. Gritty realities and unpleasant truths were about to surface, not just in her life, but in the lives of family and friends whom she loved. She knew the road ahead was paved with detours, rough patches, and a few hazard signs. But she also knew she’d get through them thanks to her faith, her grandma Allene, and the amazing gift of prophecy she now embraced.

“Thank you, Grandma Allene,” Alexandria whispered. “I love you for showing me the way.”

As soon as her words floated into the air, Alexandria knew that her grandma Allene’s spirit had entered the room. Whenever she felt a warm breeze, a gentle, unexplainable tug at her arm, or smelled the unmistakably sweet scent of magnolias—which had just wafted by her nose—she knew it was her great-great-grandmother communicating with her.

Alexandria inhaled the fragrant, uniquely Southern scent that always made her feel safe and at ease. That sense of comfort and security was very different from the turmoil and strife she’d experienced in the past whenever she thought about her gift.

Communicating with spirits and having premonitions were abilities that had burdened Alexandria since she was five years old. She’d always felt different and out of place, constantly trying to navigate where she stood in a world filled with uncertainty. Her lack of grounding and understanding of her gift had made her afraid of the supernatural powers she possessed. But all that had changed last summer when Allene had contacted her for the first time.

Initially, Alexandria had been leery, and she hadn’t want any part of the mysteriously frightening world that had been haunting her since she was five years old. Many times she could remember waking up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat and covered with fear, terrified of the voices that belonged to spirits from another world that she couldn’t see or touch.

She also recognized that the ability to know what was going to happen in a given situation before it took place wasn’t always a good thing, and it had quickly become a heavy weight on her shoulders. She’d worried about things that kids her age didn’t have to deal with. She’d witnessed accidents, death, and destruction, and it had made her fearful of doing something as normal as dreaming at night because of what she might see. She’d often stood helpless with her knowledge, not knowing what to do or in whom to confide, so she’d learned how to ignore her gift and block out visions whenever they threatened her peace of mind.

But once her grandma Allene had come into her life and shown her the beauty of her gift, along with the strength and infinite possibilities it held, a new world had opened up to her for the first time.

She’d been hoping that her grandma Allene would soon make contact with her again. She missed hearing the old woman’s comforting voice and the soothing, down-home Southern accent it carried. Allene hadn’t communicated with her in nearly three months, which had initially alarmed Alexandria. But then she remembered Allene’s promise—that she’d always be there to guide and protect her. Alexandria knew she’d have to wait patiently and trust in Allene’s words, which were solid and rooted in love.

The one thing that Alexandria longed for more than anything was to talk with Allene face-to-face, instead of speaking in whispered tones through visions that always seemed to end much too quickly. During one of their talks, Alexandria had asked Allene to appear to her in the flesh.

“Grandma Allene, I want to see you. Can you come visit me?” she’d asked.

( Continued… )

 Excerpted from Troublemaker by Trice Hickman.  © 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Trice Hickman.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

About the Author
Trice Hickman is a self-proclaimed Southern girl, and award-winning, bestselling author. Trice’s love of reading and the power she recognized in the written word inspired her to become a writer. After receiving rejection letters from every agent and publisher she submitted her work to, Trice was determined to bring her stories to life. She self-published her first three novels to great success, and shortly thereafter, landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published. When she’s not busy writing and reading, Trice enjoys cooking, traveling, decorating, and meeting good people. Learn more about Trice at http://www.tricehickman.com.

Download Troublemaker (An Unexpected Love Novel)
by Trice Hickman
[Kindle Edition]
Link: http://amzn.com/B00IKOTMC0

Purchase Troublemaker (An Unexpected Love Novel)
by Trice Hickman
Link:  http://amzn.com/0758287267

Meet the Author
Trice Hickman is a self-proclaimed Southern girl, and award-winning, bestselling author. Trice’s love of reading and the power she recognized in the written word inspired her to become a writer. After receiving rejection letters from every agent and publisher she submitted her work to, Trice was determined to bring her stories to life. She self-published her first three novels to great success, and shortly thereafter, landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published. When she’s not busy writing and reading, Trice enjoys cooking, traveling, decorating, and meeting good people. Learn more about Trice at http://www.tricehickman.com.

Author website: http://www.tricehickman.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tricehickman
FB:  http://www.facebook.com/tricehickman

Unexpected Love Novel Series – More Books by Trice Hickman
* Looking for Trouble
* Unexpected Interruptions
* Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies
* Playing the Hand You’re Dealt

Books by Trice Hickman
http://www.amazon.com/Trice-Hickman/e/B002N44944
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/trice-hickman/2106303

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Excerpt: Sultry Pleasure by Lindsay Evans

A hot Miami night. A glittering gala. And a gorgeous billionaire wants to spirit her away. This might be a fantasy for most women, but not Diana Hobbes. She’s at a charity event representing the nonprofit adoption agency she has poured her heart and soul into. And despite the hot body, easy charm and luxury ride of playboy Marcus Stanfield, Diana has nothing in common with him.

Marcus is unaccustomed to having women refuse him. So he is surprised by Diana’s brush-off – and intrigued. Angelically kind and devilishly sexy, Diana is worth more than a little effort…so an epic seduction campaign begins. Lavish evenings, small touches, and grand gestures all say “I want you.” The desire is mutual, the tension maddening. But which will Diana ultimately choose: holding back… or giving in?

Excerpt from Chapter One

 Marcus Stanfield walked into the party already looking for the exits. On a Saturday night in Miami, he’d much rather be on his boat or partying with friends than bleeding away the night at a charity ball he had had no real interest in attending. The music was calm and laid back, acceptable jazz that blended into the background while Miami business professionals and philanthropists wove through the crowd in their formal dinner wear—black tie and tails, cocktail dresses, diamonds dripping from necks and wrists.

As Marcus glanced over the crowd, he heard the sound of a woman’s laughter, husky and low, from nearby.

The woman’s laughter was rich and deep, with a hint of naughtiness. A combination that drew him like a bee to honey. His ears latched on to the laughter while his eyes tracked the room for the source of the sound. Soon he found it.

Two women stood together. One was still laughing, her head thrown back, a hand propped up on her hip. She was slender and pretty, light-skinned with wavy black hair down to the middle of her back.

But, inexplicably, it was the woman standing next to her that drew and kept Marcus’s attention. She had dark skin, angelic features, and straightened hair pulled back in an elegant French roll. Even from across the room, he sensed her innocence. While her friend was dressed in a purple satin dress that caught her at mid-thigh and clung to her slender but generously proportioned body, this woman wore ice blue.

She smiled faintly at something her friend said, her full mouth tilting up at the corners with mild amusement. Marcus looked back at the friend with her killer  body, white teeth and long hair that fell in thick waves over her luscious breasts. She was definitely more his type, a woman who would want him for his money, and never anything else. The safe type.

But the woman in blue was who he wanted.

“Good evening, ladies.” Marcus approached them with his charming smile firmly in place.

The laughing woman gave him a considering glance, a quick but thorough evaluation of what he was wearing, how he looked, what he was worth.

“Good evening.” She greeted him with a predatory smile. “You’re Marcus, right?”

“I am,” he said. “A pleasure to meet you.”

The woman he wanted treated him like he was intruding on their conversation. She was even more beguiling up close. Not traditionally beautiful but exquisitely made with her large eyes, wide mouth and narrow chin.

“I’m Trish,” the long-haired one said, offering her hand to shake. “And this is my best friend, Diana.” She nudged her friend, as if encouraging her to be nice to Marcus.

Diana extended her hand in greeting. “Marcus.” Her voice was carefully neutral.

“Don’t say my name like that,” he said with a grin. “So formal. Especially when I came over here intending to ask you to dance with me.”

A frown settled on her angelic face. “I don’t dance.”

“She’d love to.” Trish smiled even wider to make up for Diana’s lack of welcome, then nudged her friend again, this time directly into Marcus’s arms. “Enjoy, honey!”

Marcus took Diana’s arm and led her to the dance floor where they were playing Marvin Gaye’s “Got to Give it Up.”

“Thank you for dancing with me,” he said.

She looked up at him, her eyes large and serious behind a veil of thick lashes. Her narrow chin jutted out.

“You know very well I didn’t agree to dance with you,” she said. Her full mouth glistened dark red under the lights.

“You don’t strike me as a woman who’d let herself be talked into something she didn’t want to do,” he murmured as they moved to the beat of the song. “Whatever small part of you wanted to come with me, I’m grateful for it.” He smiled, strangely charmed by her coolness. Her reaction to him was completely different from what he usually got from women.

At his look, Diana pursed her lips, the lines of her face softening. “I’m sorry. It’s just been a long day. Everyone here seems to think just because I work for a non-profit, that means I’m going to whore myself out to the one with the biggest bank account.”

Damn. She was definitely not his type at all. With other women , he knew what they wanted, and they knew what he could give. Sex for money: a transparent transaction. But he didn’t want to let Diana go yet.

“If it makes you feel any better, you don’t have to whore yourself out to me at all.” Marcus dipped his hips close to hers as they moved to the music, then pulled back. “All I want is a dance.”

She looked at him with a hint of doubt in her sparkling brown eyes. “A dance is all you really want?”

Marcus smiled. “For now.” He spun her around to the rhythm of the song, then pulled her back seamlessly into his arms. “Later I was thinking of trying to tempt you with dinner, maybe a late night walk on the beach.”

The corner of her mouth twitched. “I’ve already eaten, and I try to avoid the beach at night.”

“Why is that?”

She looked at him with a pointed rise of an eyebrow. “Sharks.”

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Lindsay Evans.  This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

Purchase Sultry Pleasure by Lindsay Evans
Genre: Romance.  Amazon link:  http://amzn.to/1dzwicR

Meet the Author
Born in Jamaica, Lindsay Evans currently lives in Atlanta, GA. She loves good food and romance and would happily travel to the ends of the earth for both. She currently writes sensual love stories for Harlequin Kimani. Find out more at http://www.LindsayEvansWrites.com.

Twitter: @LindsayEvansXOX
Website: http://www.LindsayEvansWrites.com
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LindsayEvansXOX

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EXCERPT: Avenue of Palms by Athena Lark

Former slave and seamstress, Violet Kingsley, returns to the modern world on the eve of the first African-American president of the United States. Violet’s spirit returns while walking down the long dirt road, dubbed the Avenue of Palms, which leads to Kingsley Plantation. She knows her soul is reborn when a car barrels down the road.  A chance encounter with the driver, will forever tie the two women together as Violet realizes only certain people, things and other spirits can see her physical body.
    
With its wings in a wide arc, a wild peacock greets Violet as she enters the gates of the plantation. Now, a National State Park, Kingsley Plantation is frozen in time. Except for the White tourists with their fanny packs, cameras and flip flops the plantation looks the same as it did in its original glory. The slave cabins are still there, the barn, Kitchen House, and Big House, all restored stand as monuments of a time when Violet was enslaved. Violet’s emotions are torn between a life lived over 200 years before and a new world with cars, cell phones, and successful Black people.
     
Bewildered with modern times, Violet struggles to adapt to what she calls the “new world.” In this world she faces the daily challenges of race not too far removed from her early days on the plantation. Violet tells her story of those early days like an old grandmother sitting in a rocking chair beside you. She recounts those early days struggling to survive the horrors of the Middle Passage. Early years of helping Nat Turner revolt against slavery. Days she wept when her mistress sold her baby girl, Jane, away. Frightful but loving years spent with her husband, freed slave and revolt fighter, Ishmael Carter. Years she spent searching for her family only to find some were closest to her than she ever imagined.

Excerpt from Chapter One – Rebirth

The Kingsley Plantation, 1832
Ft. George Island, Florida

The flames rose up the barn door engulfing the frame and the only way out. Violet Kingsley grabbed her two little ones, Rachel and Benjamin, by their clothes and carried them to the far end of the barn. Quickly the fire spread to the opposite side. The children held on to her tighter, crying as the red monster got bigger. She tried to gather her thoughts and figure out a way to save them, but it all seemed to be moving in slow motion to her.

She remembered the sting of the slap from her mistress just moments before, when she told her she would first have her whipped and then sell “those little nigger bastards of yours.”

A beautiful woman, Violet’s smooth brown skin, almond shaped eyes, thick nose, and pouty lips were more a curse to her than a blessing. Standing just over five feet, there was still something about her that made her seem stronger than her slender body.

She ran to the cabin where Auntie Rae watched all the slave children. She didn’t say a word as she snatched up her kids. Instead of heading to her own cabin, she ran to the barn to hide. She hoped her master would have enough time to calm down the mistress before she came after her with the overseer and the whip.

When she heard the rustling of leaves outside the barn, she looked through a knot hole in the wood and saw Big John, the slave overseer. He had a lit torch in his hand. Looking around to see if anyone could see him, he threw the torch at the door.

Violet watched the dry timber light in a flash. The smoke instantly burned her eyes and began to fill up the barn. A sliver of sunlight on the wall led her to the direction of her salvation; a small window above the hay loft.

Her hands gripped the tall ladder to the top as she struggled with the children hanging on to her. Only minutes had gone by, yet all walls of the barn were engulfed in flames. The fire spread to the ladder, lighting her long skirts just as she made it to the hay loft. She beat at the flames until they went out.

The pain seared through her legs, but she knew she had to move quickly or they would be dead once the flames made it to the bays of hay. She stood on her tippy toes lifting five year-old Benjamin through the window onto the burning roof. With a burst of energy the fire attacked the hay stacks with ferocious speed.

So quick was the fire that Violet was holding one-year old Rachel up in the air when her whole body caught on fire. She screamed as the fire trailed up her body and consumed her baby girl.

She was a ball of fire cradling her dying baby when she looked up and saw Benjamin’s crying face and tiny hand reaching down for her. Then she left the world in ashes.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Athena Lark.  Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this sneak peek.

Purchase Avenue of Palms by Athena Lark
Purchase:  http://www.amazon.com/Avenue-Palms-Athena-Lark/dp/1493109782

Cinematic Book Trailer: Avenue Of Palms by Athena Lark 
Watch NOW and be amazed:  http://youtu.be/1oxB0i8rNl4

About the Author
Athena Lark is the author of the greatly anticipated debut novel, Avenue of Palms. She graduated from the University of California at Riverside, where she received her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts. She has been published in; the Literary Journals, Gently Read Literature, Hippo Reads and Whistling Fire, the Florida Times Union newspaper, Jacksonville Business Journal, Jacksonville Advocate, the Albany Herald, UNF Spinnaker, and UNF Alumni Magazine. She is currently writing her memoir, Sailor Girl about her life in the U. S. Navy.

For more on the novel, check out my website at:  http://www.athenalark.com.  Also, the cinematic book trailer on YouTube is wonderfully produced:  http://youtu.be/1oxB0i8rNl4

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99 Cent Download: Smoke In The Citi by Joy Avery

Smoke In The Citi
by Joy Avery

Where there’s smoke…

When Passion Phillips agrees to work elbow to elbow with the man who left her at the altar, flames ignite inside the Citi Café. Flames capable of engulfing her mind and body. She’s made the mistake of loving him once, but won’t make the same mistake again. Burned by his betrayal, she is determined keep him at a distance. If only her heart would listen.

…there’s fire!

Dasher Howard is not the man he used to be. All he needs now is the opportunity to show Passion that he’s no longer the man she once knew. With a mission to prove to her love can be better the second time around, he’ll do whatever it takes to reclaim her heart. Even if it means manipulating the odds in his favor.

The only thing hotter than the food inside Citi Café is the blaze igniting between Passion and Dasher. How will he prove to her that he is the only man for her? Especially when she is hell-bent on hating him.

Excerpt from Chapter One 

The idea of showing up at Second Empire restaurant, in full wedding attire, to confront the man who’d jilted her at the altar two months earlier had seemed like a grand idea to Passion Phillips two hours ago; not so much now as she stood in the Pine Room of the restored Dodd-Hinsdale house.

Dasher’s eyes glowed intense as hot embers as he watched her with a hard stare. Those captivating brown eyes had once made her dizzy with desire. Had the setting been different, they probably still could. The reality of the admission caused a knot in her stomach.

The other diners at the table, presumably colleagues, stared at her as if she’d recently been released from a mental institution and still donned the facility-issued wardrobe instead of the Vera Wang gown she wore.

The strapless, natural-waist ballerina gown had cost over six thousand dollars. It’d been much more than she’d ever dreamed of paying for a gown she would only wear once. In awe, she’d marveled at the bottom layers of laser-cut organza with a floral pattern etched in, as well as the detachable bustier top with its sweetheart neckline. It wasn’t long before she’d fallen in love with the pricey garment. And thanks to the man in front of her, it had been a total waste of money.

Standing feet away from Dasher made her realize just how unprepared she was. Unprepared to face the one person who, despite her loathing, still made an inferno burn in the pit of her stomach. That shouldn’t be the case. Especially when he’d shattered her heart just months earlier.

Although distance lay between them, she could feel Dasher’s body heat. It was more likely the heat of rage and fury coursing between them as his lethal eyes penetrated to her core.

Standing in front of the rolling cameras of a local news investigation team a year prior, defending her restaurant against trumped up allegations of food poisoning, was a cakewalk compared to standing inches from the man with whom, up until that fateful day, she’d planned to spend the rest of her life with.

“Good evening, Dasher,” she said, sweeping her veil over a shoulder.

His dark, thick brows bunched. “Passion, what are you doing here?”

Was he that oblivious? Did he really have to ask? “I wanted you to see exactly how I would have looked on our wedding day. You forfeited that opportunity when you left me at the altar.” Simply saying the words made her want to break down in tears, but she took heed not to show any emotion. Why did he need to know how much she was still hurting over his deception? Why did he need to know that her heart was still bleeding over him?

Dasher scanned the table of well-dressed and distinguished men and women. “This is neither the time—nor place for this.”

A condescending laugh escaped her. “Really? And at the church, an hour before our ceremony, was the appropriate time for you to decide you didn’t want to marry me?”

Mr. Thornton said, “Dasher, this would be more effectively resolved outside, don’t you think?”

Passion’s narrow-eyed gaze slid to Dasher’s boss. An overbearing buffoon of a man. His beet red cheeks had to be a sign of his embarrassment. Not to sound like a cliché, but she’d killed two birds with one stone. She’d never cared much for the man.

Dasher’s nostrils flared slightly, indicating his irritation. His hard stare never left her as he said, “Yes, sir, I believe it would.”

A swift motion brought Dasher to his feet. The swirling aromas couldn’t mask the unmistakable scent of his cologne when he came to a full stand. It wasn’t that the fragrance was applied too generously; it was that it called to her like a tracking beacon.

As her eyes climbed his frame, she knew underneath the midnight-blue suit, muscles rippled from his firm legs to his ripped arms. With her eyes steadily rising, she glided past the broad shoulders and settled at his hypnotic lips, a hard, straight line in them. Ignoring that, she trailed past the pronounced flare of his nostrils, only stopping when their eyes reconnected.

A quiver caused her to shift her one hundred and fifty-five pounds from one foot to the other. If her legs gave way, would the man nearest to her catch her five-foot-eight frame? She eyed him. Not likely.

“I don’t need you to placate me, Dasher. You can’t manage me like one of your computer programs. I’m leaving.” Her features softened. “I wanted you to feel just a fraction of the humiliation I felt the day you…” She paused, her breath catching in her throat. “The day you broke my heart.” Tears battled to escape, but she managed to keep them at bay.

How had their relationship gone so wrong? At one point, the two had been inseparable. So in-tune with one another, that either often knew exactly what the other was thinking without asking; could finish each other’s sentences. She’d known the placement of every one of his laugh lines, the location of every imperfection on his body, every spot that turned him on.

( Continued… )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Joy Avery. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Share a link to this page or the author’s website if you really like this sneak peek.

About the Author
Joy Avery is a North Carolina native with a passion for penning contemporary romances. Her stories guide readers along the rutted roads of love, delivering them to a gratifying happily ever after.

Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Heart of Carolina Romance Writers. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, cake decorating, pretending to expertly play the piano, driving her husband insane, and playing with her sixteen-pound peek-a-poo and hundred-pound Rottweiler.  Books available at: www.amazon.com/author/joyavery

Connect with Joy Avery 
www.joyavery.com
www.twitter.com/authorjoyavery
www.facebook.com/authorjoyavery
www.goodreads.com/authorjoyavery

Purchase Smoke In The Citi by Joy Avery
Amazon:  http://amzn.com/1495345831 
Available on Amazon.com in eBook and Print format

  

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Intimate Conversation with Dwan Abrams

Dwan Abrams was born in Florida. She has lived in Europe and throughout the United States.

After graduating from high school with honors, she served four honorable years in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force she was recognized as Airman of the Month twice and Personnel Specialist of the Quarter. Due to her outstanding leadership skills, she was promoted early to the rank of Senior Airman.

Dwan is a graduate of the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Prior to becoming a full-time writer, Dwan worked as a manager for a Fortune 100 company. She has experience in sales, customer service, and marketing.

A true leader in the community, Dwan was a mentor at Shamrock Middle School. She has participated in Career Day and Job Shadowing Day at local Atlanta middle and high schools. As a supporter of Johnnie’s House “Feed the Hungry” campaign, she appeared in a Public Service Announcement that aired on WATC TV 57 in Atlanta. Dwan has volunteered for United Way campaigns, Adopt-a-Family, and Santa’s Helping Hands.

As a freelance editor, Dwan has edited numerous manuscripts for aspiring and established authors. Her services include: copy editing, substantive editing, ghostwriting, and manuscript critiques and evaluations.

Dwan has been featured in Booking Matters and Awareness magazines. She’s been interviewed on Atlanta Live, which aired on WATC TV 57. Due to her hard work and determination, Dwan has been inducted into the 2006 and 2010 “Who’s Who” in Black Atlanta.  She’s the former President of Faith Based Fiction Writers of Atlanta.

She’s the best-selling author of When the Fairytale Ends (Book #2 in the Married Series), My Mother’s Child (the anticipated sequel to Divorcing the Devil), Married Strangers, Divorcing the Devil (nominated for the 2008 African American Literary Awards Show), Only True Love Waits (winner of the 2007 Pen of the Writer POWER Award for Best Fiction), The Scream Within, and Favor (a short story appearing in The Midnight Clear: Stories of Love, Hope and Inspiration anthology).

Her seventh novel, For the Sake of Love, was released by Kensington in June 2014.  She currently resides in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia with her family.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My latest book, For the Sake of Love, is a love triangle. Bria finds herself having to choose between the man she loves and the man trying to woo her with his money. I consider For the Sake of Love to be an inspirational romance, and yes, it is available in both Nook and Kindle.  

BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I had first written For the Sake of Love as a novella. For years I wanted to turn it into a full length novel but didn’t know what direction I wanted to take it. Finally, I found the motivation and inspiration to craft the story.

BPM:  Does your life experiences inspire your writing?
Sometimes. It really depends on the character. I have the most fun with characters inspired by people I know.

BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  Why?
My book ideas come from all over the place. There’s no one set thing. In the past, I have spoken to people with interesting professions and made mental notes to give my characters those professions. Something as simple as that can spark the idea for a new book.

I would definitely say that my books are character driven. My characters determine the situation and direction of the story. I don’t start out with an entire premise and place the characters in the scenes.

BPM:   Give us some insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special? 
Bria is special because she’s growing as a person. She’s discovering new things about herself. Bria’s best friend, Nya, is a wild card. She’s a ride or die chick.

Nya’s husband, Chance, is somewhat of a jokester. What makes him so special is that I had a reader once tell me that she loved Chance for Bria. I had never even considered that.

Spade wants so badly to be Bria’s hero that he sometimes comes off as a zero. Readers will have to figure out whether Kerryngton is glitter or gold.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
The different love languages are primarily discussed in For the Sake of Love. I did learn that I probably would not have made the same choice as Bria.

BPM:   Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
I didn’t have to conduct an extensive amount of research for this book. Everyone involved I already knew. Nonetheless, the feedback on the men and who Bria should end up with was priceless.

BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
Success for me means doing what God has purposed for me to do. As long as I walk in my calling, I’m a success. I don’t measure success in monetary standards. Every time my publisher agrees to publish one of my books, I feel a sense of accomplishment. Whenever I receive an email from a reader telling me he or she enjoyed my book, I feel honored.

As for my ambitions, I have quite a few. I believe that as long as I keep my character intact, my gifts will make room for me. I don’t put myself into a box.

BPM:   What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book? 
I don’t believe in putting expectations on my work. I simply write the stories I feel compelled to write to the best of my abilities. As long as I feel good about my work once I’m done, I’m happy. I pray about it and release it.
I would like for my readers to post their favorable reviews on Amazon or bn.com. I also like to hear from my readers. Those emails make my day. And of course, I want my readers to tell ten more readers to go out and buy the book.

BPM:   Did you ever ask yourself, “Why am I doing this? Should I change course and maybe try to get some of the things on that list?”
No, I have never wondered if writing was the right thing for me. When I was in corporate America, that was a different story. I often thought that. I actually wrote my first two books while working in corporate America. My dream was to leave my job and write full-time. Eight years ago I was blessed to do just that. I’ve been doing what I love ever since. Currently, I teach business classes at a college twice a week. I enjoy doing that because it doesn’t require a lot of my time and doesn’t interfere with my writing.

BPM:   Do you feel as if you are a role model for other authors?
I don’t look at myself that way. I strive to be the best person that I can be, and if that inspires other people, then I’m thankful. 

BPM:   What projects are you working on at the present?
I’m always working on projects. LOL! I’ll reveal them as they start coming to pass.

BPM:   How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Readers can visit my web site http://www.dwanabrams.com. They can also connect with me on social networking sites.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dwanabrams 
FB:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dwan-Abrams/102602141758

Purchase For the Sake of Love by Dwan Abrams
http://www.amazon.com/Sake-Love-Urban-Books/dp/1601627440

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Intimate Conversation with Necole Ryse

Necole Ryse graduated from Towson University with Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications. Bored with life as an adult, Necole decided to follow her dreams to write fiction and she hasn’t looked back. She joined the Winslet Press family to release her first novel, THE LEGACY. She enjoys chocolate covered pretzels, Criminal Minds marathons, and all things Harry Potter.

BPM: What motivated you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
I had no choice. I’ve always been a writer and when I graduated college I felt like it wasn’t a smart career choice to venture into, so I put my dreams on hold while I worked a bunch of jobs I had no passion in. Finally, after a terrible day at work I decided to quit. I gave myself one year to make my dreams come true or I was going back to work. So, I sat down and started writing. Right now, I don’t have children, a husband or a mortgage, so it seemed like the perfect time to take a leap of faith.

BPM: Does your upbringing or life experiences inspire your writing?
Sometimes, yes. People always say write what you know. Some of my scenes in the books are from actual conversations or experiences I had, but most come from my imagination.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  
I wish I could tell you where my book ideas come from. They just happen. I will overhear something in a conversation or see someone interesting and start making a story about them. I can find inspiration anywhere. My books are both plot and character driven. Good books have both excellent plots and evolving characters and I focus on developing both at the same time.

BPM: Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My first novel, The Legacy, is a part of a trilogy called The Birthright Trilogy. It’s a “new adult fiction” book. Since the characters are in college, it isn’t really considered young adult fiction, but since new adult is such a new genre, most people classify it as young adult fiction. As of right now, the book is available on Kindle.

BPM: Give us an insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
The Legacy centers around 4 girls, Raevyn, Regina, Corrine and Andrea. Raevyn is the narrator or the story and she is one tough chick. Her father drove her cross country to his alma mater, Benjamin Wallace Fitzgerald University, the nation’s first African American Ivy League school, because she got into some trouble with the law. She had to blend in at the school because she couldn’t come back home. The problem is, Raevyn is from a low-income family, and therefore it’s hard to blend in with the posh crowd at the Black Ivy League. Her roommate, Regina Fitzgerald, yes you read that right, Fitzgerald, is the heiress to the Fitzgerald name. Her great-great-grandfather founded the school.

Regina’s friends are Andrea and Corrine. Regina is special because she, like most people, has been hurt. Just because she is the “it” girl at school doesn’t mean her own personal life isn’t falling apart. Because of her internal turmoil she comes off as a bitch to most people. But, once her layers are peeled back, over the course of the trilogy, she reveals herself. Andrea is an Ice Queen. She is the friend who tells it like it is and doesn’t care what you think.

She is my favorite character of all. She holds no cut cards and will provide the readers with a laugh or two throughout the course of the novel. Corrine is the friendly one. She becomes really close to Raevyn and the two begin to bond in places that Regina and Andrea can’t reach. She is sweet as sugar, but like most people at the Black Ivy League, she harbors a lot of secrets.

BPM: What topics are primarily discussed? Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
In the book, topics range from relationships to love, school work and lots and lots of fashion! From this book I learned that I can’t control my characters. Once I put them on the page they come to life and I have to go with the flow after that.

BPM:  What are your ambitions for your writing career?
My ultimate goal is reaching the NYT Best Seller list before 30. Success for me means touching someone’s life. If a reader says to me, “your book inspired me” or “your story made me feel like I could do anything” I have done my due diligence as a writer. Success is touching someone’s life. I want a Black girl to read my book and see herself. That’s the meaning of success

BPM: What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book?
My goal for this book is to create a conversation! I want more writers to write for African Americans in higher education. After this book I want readers to tweet me, Facebook me and beg for the next one!

BPM: Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included? How can readers discover more about you and your work?
I can be reached a number of ways: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/necoleryse; Twitter and IG: @necoleryse. I would love to hear from you! I always answer emails, too. necole.ryse@gmail.com

Website: www.necoleryse.com
Twitter and IG: @necoleryse
Facebook: www.facebook.com/necoleryse

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Intimate Conversation with Michelle Morgan Spady

The author, Michelle Morgan Spady, is a retired child care center owner, and teacher of English and Computer Technology. Ms. Spady loves reading and writing and tells many of her stories from her memories of days in the classroom and on the playground. She says that her writings are enriched by the illustrations provided by her artist son, whose love is in creating characters for her to develop in her stories. They work as a mother and son team.

With the formation of their company, ‘B’Artful’, dedicated to promoting emerging artists and writers and the release of their third book together, the duo are on a roll. Michelle Spady and Bradford O. Spady co-produced “An Artist and His Obsession”, “7 Days 2 Tell” and the anti-bullying tale, titled: ‘ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground’.  Ms. Spady lives in McLean, VA with her husband and son.

BPM:   What motivated you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I work with children all the time, and throughout many of my interactions with them, I am always conscious of the way they talk to each other and the way the solve their problems.  I used to get very involved when my son would come home with stories of how he had been “over-powered” or “bullied” by some kid. One day this poem came to me and I wrote it down.  I found some of my son’s characters that he had drawn that I thought would fit the story perfectly.  That’s what got me started on the idea of writing and publishing a book.

BPM:   What motivated you to become an indie author?
I like challenges, and I have been keeping journals for years saying that one day I was going to write a book. I still have not penned the book that I have had in my heart. for years  There is a story that I want to tell. Right now, I’d like to help my son launch his career for storytelling and drawing.

BPM:  Does your upbringing or life experiences inspire your writing?
Yes, all the books that we have published so far have some relevance to either his or my upbringing.
The book 7 Days 2 Tell about college groups and hazing, is more about teens having to make a moral decision as to whether they should snitch on the fraternity and what they witnessed, more so than the act of hazing. ShoozyQ about bullying and An Artist and his Obsession is about relationships and friendships.

BPM:   Do you write full-time?  Do you write every day? Do you have a special time to write?
No, I wish I could write every day.  I love writing, but because of our business there is so much more to do once we’ve finished a book project.  The publishing process can be daunting and overwhelming, then there’s the marketing.

BPM:   Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  Why?
My son, Bradford came up with the idea of his first book “An Artist…”. ShoozyQ…” and “7 Days…”
 were my idea.  We write about what we’re interested in.  We don’t want to be “pigeon-holed” into any one category.  He likes to draw characters first and then write stories around them.  I help him a lot with the writing, so it is challenging for me sometimes to have to come up with a story that he has already “drawn”. He is of course, visual and he can draw a whole story.  I have find the narrative.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What separates this story from the millions of other books on the shelves? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
Well ShoozyQ and the AB Crew is a book about a group of kids who play on the playground every day and there is a bully who taunts them.  One day ShoozyQ decides to stand up to the bully and she gathers her friends and tells them to follow her, she has an idea of how to get the bully to change his ways and just play with them instead.  Without giving away the whole book, she uses positive words.

What makes our book different is that it is “written in poem format, the book uses vibrant illustrations, and a good dose of positivity to encourage children to look at bullying from another perspective. ShoozyQ and her “crew” persuade a schoolyard bully to change his behavior without being mean and abusive themselves – something that is often overlooked in books with an anti-bullying message.

“We include activities so that educators can get the discussions going with children. It’s important to keep the ball rolling after the story is over, and really get to the root of what the kids have learned from ShoozyQ’s experiences.”
It is available on Kindle and IBooks.

BPM:   Give us an insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
Because our characters are “cartoony” their very fun. My son, allows me to name them most of the time, so by the time we have completed a story we feel as though we know each one.  My favorite character in the ShoozyQ book is the little African American girl named Kiana.  She’s got personality and she wears red cow girl boots.  I went out and bought me a pair the character motivated me so. Actually, we have plans to promote Kiana little more after we get the ShoozyQ book off the ground.

BPM:  Can you outline some areas where your characters dealt with issues that are in current affairs?
In this book it’s all about bullying, even hazing is about a form of bullying. ShoozyQ shows that children on both sides of bullying incidents need help. Everyone wants to help the victim or the kid who’s been bullying, but not a lot of attention is shown to the bully or the bystander.  As adults we should openly talk to our children about bullying before it happens.  Studies show that children between 3-5 are most impressionable, and this age sets the foundation of how we will interact with people in general as we grow. Parents should never ignore bullying behaviors, and should model and teach their children about empathy, (the number one emotion most bullies don’t have), kindness, compassion and positivity.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
On a personal level I felt it an honor to work with my son.  He never ceases to amaze me.  He has always struggled with learning differences, and before we started working together, I did not realize how creative, and smart he really is. He knows a lot about a lot of things.  It is truly a joy to work with him.  We both challenge and learn from each other.

BPM:  What would you like for readers to take away from your writing?  How do you go about reaching new readers?
First and foremost for our last book we’d like for them to leave with a better understanding of what bullying is all about and how taking a different approach to resolving conflicts can be very beneficial to the bully, the bullied and the bystander. I hope that the awesome illustrations that my son provides will motivate people to want to check us out.

BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career? What would you like to accomplish after the book is released?
This is like a third, maybe fourth career for me already. I was a former teacher, a systems analyst and major account sales rep in a Fortune 500 Company and my husband and I have owned a company which once had a multi-million dollar contract with a state lottery for 13 years.  At this stage of the game, success for me is seeing my son accomplished at whatever it is he’d like to do.  We want to continue writing books for awhile and I’d like to see us accepted as serious authors and illustrator in the business. My son would like to see some of his characters in an animated featured film production.

BPM:   Where do you find your daily inspiration or muse?
 My son is my daily muse.  He is so passionate about what he loves to do and that is drawing.  He draws from the moment he wakes up in the morning (afternoon) till the wee wee hours of the night (morning).
He makes me want to produce something, and help him.

BPM:   Were there any challenges (research, literary, psychological, and logistical) in bringing this story to life?
No, everything went pretty smoothly since this was my second self-published book.  The process wasn’t as daunting as the first, but yet challenging to dot all of your “i’s” and cross all of your “t’s”. It makes it easier when you write the story yourself, illustrate the book yourself, and publish. You have total creative control over everything.  There are some pros and cons to that.  Of course, in self-publishing you are totally responsible for the product that you put out.  The good, the bad, the ugly.  You can’t blame anyone for mistakes.  No margin for error.

BPM:   What are your expectations for this series of books?
My son is working on another book now and we are thinking of making it a series.  As far as this one goes, we’ll just market it and its message for as long as we can.  Anti-bullying!

BPM:  What are your goals as a writer? Do you set out to educate or inspire? Entertain? Illuminate a particular subject?
My goal is to inspire other writers and my son other artists. Our business B’Artful LLC hosts workshops and events for emerging authors and artists to enhance their creative skills. We talk about it on our website.

BPM:   What would you say are the main advantages and disadvantages of self-publishing?
I think the major advantage is that you have total control over your product. You can get it out as soon as you want or as late as you want.  The disadvantage is, if you don’t know the process you can miss some steps and then NOT have a quality product.  It is up to you to find graphic designers, editors, copyright your material, buy all that you need to publish in paperback, hardback and ebook.

BPM:  Are there any areas of your writing career that you wish you could go back and change?
Not yet, I do wish that I had started sooner in my life.  I think I would have many more books published by now.

BPM:  Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?
Just that, if there are any parents reading this I’d like to say to them to always listen to your children.  I found some papers from when my son was in kindergarten he wrote that he would be an artist when he grew up. He used to draw “stick drawings”, but look at his work now.  I’d like to think a lot of his growth came from us as parents nurturing his interest in art, and it hasn’t stopped.  He’s 20 years old now, and we are still following him and his dreams.  If you have a book you’re thinking of writing, don’t hesitate, go for it! You never know.

 Michelle Morgan Spady, Author & Publisher B’Artful, LLC
B’Artful Website:  http://www.bradspadyart.com
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/bradspadyart

ABOUT THE BOOK
Written in poem format, the book uses vibrant illustrations, and a good dose of positivity to encourage children to look at bullying from another perspective.  ShoozyQ and her “crew” persuade a schoolyard bully to change his behavior without being mean and abusive themselves-something that is often overlooked in books with an anti-bullying message.

The colorful drawings and simple, effective language all tie together to make ShoozyQ an exciting read for kids, and a learning tool for parents and teachers. There are activities at the end of the book for parents and educators to practice with the children.

ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground
General  Education-Picture Book for K-4th grade
Available at Amazon.com, IBooks, Kindle, IngramSparks, CreateSpace & B’Artful.com for bulk discount

Purchase ShoozyQ and the AB Crew: Bully on the Playground

Kindle Edition
ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground
Link: http://amzn.com/B00J2I039Y

Paperback Edition
ShoozyQ and the AB Crew in Bully on the Playground
Link: http://amzn.com/0991460014
General  Education-Picture Book for K-4th grade
Available at Amazon.com, IBooks, Kindle, IngramSparks, CreateSpace & B’Artful.com for bulk discount

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Intimate Conversation with Athena Lark

Athena Lark is the author of the greatly anticipated debut novel, Avenue of Palms. She graduated from the University of California at Riverside, where she received her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and Writing for the Performing Arts. She has been published in; the Literary Journals, Gently Read Literature, Hippo Reads and Whistling Fire, the Florida Times Union newspaper, Jacksonville Business Journal, Jacksonville Advocate, the Albany Herald, UNF Spinnaker, and UNF Alumni Magazine. She is currently writing her memoir, Sailor Girl about her life in the U. S. Navy.

For more on the novel, check out my website at:  http://www.athenalark.com.  Also, the cinematic book trailer on YouTube is wonderfully produced:  http://youtu.be/1oxB0i8rNl4 

BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?  Why now?
I was inspired to write Avenue of Palms, when I visited an old slave plantation in Jacksonville, FL.  As I walked through one of the slave cabins, I felt a presence, and then saw a vision.  Sitting in a rocking chair, in front of the large fire place, was an old slave woman.  She was crying, as she sewed on a quilt.  The vision left just as quickly as it appeared.  My heart felt very heavy, as I thought about the trials and tribulations the people who lived in the cabin had to endure.  I began to cry uncontrollably, mindless of the tourists standing outside the cabin.   After gaining some self-control, I thought about writing a book about the woman in front of the fire.  Here name would be Violet. 
    

BPM:  Does your upbringing, prior relationships or life experiences inspire your writing?
A great deal of my life experiences inspired my writing.  My career in the U.S. Navy gave me vast amounts of inspiration to develop characters, plots, and dialogue.
     

BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from?  Are your books plot driven or character driven?
I’ve always been a lover of books, since my early childhood.  My book ideas come mainly from observing things around me, and studying my history. 
     

BPM:  Introduce us to your current work.  What genre do you consider your book?  Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My research of African American history helped me enormously in writing Avenue of Palms.  Although the book is a work of fiction, there are some actual facts which laid the foundation.  Kinglsey Plantation was once a very profitable venture, for the white owner and his African wife. The dynamics of the odd couple helped me to develop my characters in the book.  Avenue of Palms is more than just another slave story. 

BPM:  Give us some insight into your main characters.  What makes each one so special? What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
Violet Kingsley, the protagonist is a strong willed, courageous, and loving woman and mother.  Her journey from Africa, through the Middle Passage, and finally to the shores of Kingsley Plantation, and beyond is a tale of struggle, empowerment, revelations, and redemption.  Writing the book has confirmed the importance of knowing one’s history.  Currently the novel is not available in digital forms.
        

BPM:  What defines success for you, as a published author?  What are your ambitions for your writing career?
Many writers define success by the number of accolades the book receives, such as a good review by the NY Times.  However, to me true success is when a reader lets me know how much they enjoyed the novel, and how Violet lingers with them, far after the last page is read.  It would be ideal if Avenue of Palms was picked up by a traditional publishing company.  I’ve been told Avenue of Palms would make a great movie.  If that were to happen it would be a dream come true.  I’m also in the process of writing my memoir, Sailor Girl. 
  

BPM:  How can readers discover more about you and your work?
For more on the novel, check out my website at http://www.athenalark.com.  Also, the cinematic book trailer on YouTube is wonderfully produced:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1oxB0i8rNl4

Purchase Avenue of Palms by Athena Lark
http://www.amazon.com/Avenue-Palms-Athena-Lark/dp/1493109782

 

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Intimate Conversation with Lindsay Evans

Born in Jamaica, Lindsay Evans currently lives in Atlanta, GA. She loves good food and romance and would happily travel to the ends of the earth for both. She currently writes sensual love stories for Harlequin Kimani. Find out more at:  http://www.LindsayEvansWrites.com

BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
LE: I’ve always loved romance. When I wrote my first Harlequin Kimani novel, Pleasure under the Sun, I fell in love with one of the secondary characters and couldn’t resist writing about him in Sultry Pleasure.

BPM:  Does your upbringing, prior relationships or life experiences inspire your writing?
LE: Yes, my mother was an avid reader while I was growing up. She read to me when I was a child and shared with me her love of stories. Without her and her influence, I doubt I’d be a writer now.

BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven? 
LE: My ideas come from many places. From my travels, conversations I’ve overheard, even songs. Usually it’s a character that attracts my attention and propels the book. After that, the plot finds itself.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
LE: My current book is Sultry Pleasure. It’s a contemporary romance novel that features a jaded playboy who has everything and a young woman who lost one of the most important people in her life at a young age. He’s hot and she’s cool. They come together and make fireworks. Sultry Pleasure is available for Kindle, Nook, iPad, Kobo, and all other e-readers.

BPM:   Give us some insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special? 
LE: Diana Hobbes is the heroine in this novel. She has sacrificed most of the happiness in her life to take care of her younger siblings and her dependent mother. When Marcus Stanfield appears, she’d given up on having any happiness of her own, but he tempts her with his wicked sense of humor and the sensual promise in his eyes. But he’s hiding a secret that threatens to break apart the tentative connection Diana feels with him.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
LE: Earned trust is a big theme in this novel. That and the idea of finding balance when it comes to taking care of the people you love and taking care of yourself. During the writing of this novel, I learned not to over-think the writing process. To simply enjoy the words and the characters as they come.

BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
LE: To me, success as a writer is being able to live from the financial fruit of my work. That’s my ambition.

BPM:   What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book? 
LE: I want the readers to love the novel. I want them to fall in love with the characters and send me email and letters about their reading experience. I don’t ask for too much J.

BPM:   Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included? 
LE: Yes. While Sultry Pleasure is a follow up to Pleasure under the Sun and it would make me very happy if after reading this post, people went out and bought both books, Sultry Pleasure can be read as a stand-alone piece.

BPM:   How can readers discover more about you and your work?
LE: They can find me online at:  http://www.LindsayEvansWrites.com  and on Facebook
Twitter: @LindsayEvansXOX
Website: http://www.LindsayEvansWrites.com
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/LindsayEvansXOX

Sultry Pleasure by Lindsay Evans
A hot Miami night. A glittering gala. And a gorgeous billionaire wants to spirit her away. This might be a fantasy for most women, but not Diana Hobbes. She’s at a charity event representing the nonprofit adoption agency she has poured her heart and soul into. And despite the hot body, easy charm and luxury ride of playboy Marcus Stanfield, Diana has nothing in common with him.

Marcus is unaccustomed to having women refuse him. So he is surprised by Diana’s brush-off – and intrigued. Angelically kind and devilishly sexy, Diana is worth more than a little effort…so an epic seduction campaign begins. Lavish evenings, small touches, and grand gestures all say “I want you.” The desire is mutual, the tension maddening. But which will Diana ultimately choose: holding back… or giving in?

Purchase Sultry Pleasure by Lindsay Evans
Genre: Romance.  Amazon link:  http://amzn.to/1dzwicR

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