Intimate Conversation with Eartha Dunston

Eartha S. Dunston, writer, speaker, panelist and Social Worker, is the 2016 winner of the Black Pearls Literary Excellence Book of the Year Award for her debut children’s book, The Hair Adventures of Princess Lindsey Sidney.

Through her literary work, she aims to help children, parents, and educators, with difficult subject matters such a positive self-image, loss and grief. As a Clinical Social Worker and by triumphing through her own difficulties, including losing both parents in the same week when she was a young student, Eartha fully understands how simple, yet effective tools such as books can make a huge difference when combating these issues.

Award-winning aAuthor Eartha S. Dunston has been named honorary Board Member of  The Kidadah Project, INC. A non-profit mentoring program for girls in Atlanta, GA.

Eartha Dunston holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Clinical Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University and graduated cum laude from ASU earning a Bachelor of Social Work from Alabama State University.

Eartha enjoys traveling, encouraging others through life’s obstacles, reading and crafting stories in all genres.

BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write?
I’ve always enjoyed writing. I started keeping a journal and writing poetry when I was in college. At the time, I never intended to share my writings publicly. I was going through a very tough time. Both of my parents were terminally ill. I was struggling emotionally, financially and every way imaginable. Writing consoled me. It was my escape. I always felt better because my journal and poems were the one place I could be totally raw and honest about my feelings. I could cry out to God and be mad at him at the same time for what I was going through; and no one was there to judge me.

One of my friends discovered a poem I had written, and he persuaded me to perform at his fraternity’s poetry night. I protested with everything in me, but eventually gave in. I was determined not to cower. To my amazement, the audience loved it; and I received a standing ovation. I knew in that instant I wanted to write professionally one day. Within the next few days, several individuals and organizations invited me to perform on campus and at local spots in the city. It was an epiphany for me.

BPM: How did you advance the call for writing?
After graduate school, I settled into a comfortable career, and tucked my writing dreams away. However, the passion never died. I was visiting my brother in Atlanta one summer, when I received profound confirmation about my writing that changed my life. I dusted off all my old ideas and put work behind my faith and dreams. I started traveling the country to attend writing seminars and conferences. I ventured to New York, Houston, and Atlanta to name a few. I soaked up as much knowledge about the industry and writing process as I could. I attended seminars and writing classes featuring some of the best in the business.

A couple of the authors and I connected. One accomplished, seasoned author took me under her wings and began to motivate me with words of encouragement. Another well-known author referred me to her publicist, and things took off immediately. It got to the point where all the things I thought would be a challenge were lining up without much effort. It’s as if my dream started chasing me. I had written the Princess series of books a couple years earlier but never attempted to publish them. I had also started working on a novel. A couple of my writing mentors continued to nudge and encourage me to move forward. I could no longer mask the dream.

I knew it was time to launch my long-desired writing career. I knew all this was not coincidental, but divine connections orchestrated by God, in His timing.

BPM: Introduce your book, The Hair Adventures of Princess Lindsey Sidney and the characters.
The main character of the book, Princess Lindsey Sidney, admires her hair each day of the week as it transitions from straight to frizzy and all textures in between. My debut children’s book, entitled The Hair Adventures of Princess Lindsey Sidney, was birthed out of the struggles with my daughter’s hair. I was never good at hair. I cropped mine off years ago and never looked back. God really has a sense of humor. He gave me a beautiful daughter with the biggest, thickest, and coarsest hair I’ve ever encountered. I knew I was in trouble when it came to grooming it. I knew there had to be other parents going through the same struggles. I knew others could benefit from a book that celebrated various phases of our sometimes straight, sometimes kinky.

I would spend hours every Saturday on my daughter’s hair trying to wash it, comb it and make it pretty. It would never be as sleek or straight as I wanted. We would both be in tears. However, I noticed when her father and I told her she was a beautiful princess with the prettiest hair, she believed it! Even with a pile of untamed frizz on her head, she would stand in the mirror and admire it because we told her she was beautiful. It made me realize the power of instilling positive self-image in children at a young age. She thought her hair was beautiful in all its imperfection because we told her so.

BPM: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I write because it’s liberating. I write because it is the one thing I will always do even if I never make a dime from it. I love writing and if my writing can help someone along the way, even better. Creating characters and giving them life is exhilarating. I ‘m driven by the power and emotion well developed characters evoke. I’ve gotten feedback from beta readers that tell me they can’t stop thinking about a particular character in my novel or they really felt as if they were there with the characters. When I hear that, I know I am on the right track. I will always have a passion for writing, whether it’s another children’s book, a simple article, or a fast-paced spy novel. I’m just getting started!

 

Interview/Speaking Engagement Requests
To schedule Eartha Dunston for an interview or speaking engagement contact: i_write@aol.com.  We welcome invitations to speak to schools, daycares, churches, libraries or home-school groups. Interviews can be in person, via Facetime or Skype. 

Website:       http://www.earthadunston.com
Twitter:        https://twitter.com/EarthaDunston
Pinterest:     https://www.pinterest.com/earthadunston
Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/earthasdunston
Facebook:    http://www.facebook.com/EarthaSDunston

 
The Hair Adventures of Princess Lindsey Sidney is the first in a series of children’s books entitled the Princess Series. Each book aims to serve as a dialogue with children, parents, and educators to address such issues as positive self-image and dealing with the loss of a loved one.  Parents, The Hair Adventures of Princess Lindsey Sidney will instill a positive self-image in your little princess. It teaches children to appreciate their hair textures from straight to frizzy and all styles in between.  Additional teaching opportunities, such as learning the days of the week, are purposely crafted into the story.  Purchase  Link:   http://a.co/bqjdGRV

Age Level: 2 – 5 years old
Hardcover: 42 pages. Dimensions:  8 x 10 x 0.25
ISBN-13: 978-0996930277.  Publisher: JD Publishing (June 21, 2016)
Children’s Books > Chapter Books & Readers > Beginner Readers

Available nationwide, on Nook and Kindle eReaders. On Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Distribution: Ingram Content Group

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Intimate Conversation with Sheryl Lister

Sheryl Lister has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. She writes contemporary and inspirational romance and romantic suspense. She been nominated for an Emma Award, RT Reviewer’s Choice Award and named BRAB’s 2015 Best New Author.

When she’s not reading, writing or playing chauffeur, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers and bite-sized desserts. Sheryl resides in California and is a wife, mother of three daughters and a son-in-love, and grandmother to two very special little boys.

BPM:  Could you tell us something about your most recent work?  Is this book available on Nook and Kindle?
My latest book, Places In My Heart, features a pro football star who needs a new agent and a sassy attorney who wants to break into the world of sports management. This book was such fun for me because I am a diehard football fan. The chemistry between Omar and Morgan is electric from the start, but both need the other more professionally. It’s going to be interesting to see if they can keep those boundaries in place.

BPM:  Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special?
My heroine, Morgan Gray, is outspoken and doesn’t back down from a challenge. She goes for what she wants, regardless of the obstacles and is fiercely loyal. My hero, Omar Drummond, has a heart of gold. While he enjoys the game of football, he has far-reaching goals that will make lives better for veterans and others suffering from PTSD or other mental health issues.

BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
I’m a diehard football fan and I’ve always wanted to write a sports romance. When the opportunity came for this series, I knew at least one of the books would feature a football player. It turns out that I’ll get to explore the lives of two heroes in the game (stay tuned for Book 5 in The Grays of Los Angeles series featuring Malcolm Gray). Sports management was also a fascinating topic and I had a blast researching this for Morgan because it’s not often we see a woman in this field.

BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven?
My book ideas come from everywhere—life experiences, television, songs, etc. Sometimes, I wish I could turn my brain off for an hour or two because a plot line will come to me in the middle of the night. Like musicians hear music in everything, I hear plots. My books tend to be character-driven.

BPM:  Is writing easy for you? Do you feel lonely being a writer?
I wouldn’t say writing is easy for me, but it’s not necessarily difficult, either. But occasionally, some doubts creep in in when it’s time to start a new book or when I’m stuck in the middle of a story and can’t seem to find my way to the end immediately. Then it’s, “I don’t know if I can do this,” or “what if I can’t finish it?” I usually step away from my computer for a few hours or even a full day and do something else, like read, since I don’t get to do it as much as I like now. The next day, my head is clearer and I can get going again. As far as feeling lonely, I haven’t felt this way at all. I have such a phenomenal support of author friends! We hash out plot lines, critique each other and sometimes, just get together and hang out. No book talk, just pure fellowship.

BPM:  What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
In a word: football! Like I said, I love football and any chance I get to watch it for “research” is a win-win for me. I also thoroughly enjoyed Morgan and Omar’s journey to finding their forever.

BPM:  How long does it take to complete one of your books?
The time frame varies for me to complete a book. If there are no life interruptions (ha ha), then I can finish a 50K-60K word in about 6-8 weeks, and a novella of about 35K words in four weeks.

BPM:  Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?
If you wait for the perfect time to start writing, you’ll never do it. Don’t wait! Read extensively in the line you want to write for. Learn everything about the craft of writing…and KEEP learning. Don’t think about writing, don’t dream about writing and don’t talk about writing… write.

BPM:  What period of your life do you find you write about most often?
Everything I’ve written so far is geared to my adult life. But, I’d love to explore the teen and young adult genre one day.

BPM:  How do you feel when someone disagrees with something you have written?
I write fiction, but I understand that not everyone will like what I write. The only thing I can do is keep telling my story.

BPM:  Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book?  If so, discuss them.
I don’t think the subject of PTSD and mental health is under-represented, per se, but the lack of services is something that needs to keep being said. Our service men and women put themselves on the line to protect our freedoms. Yet, when they return battle worn and weary in spirit and mind, there are limited avenues to assist them and their families. There needs to be more done to help them re-enter civilian life wholly. In Places In My Heart, I touch on this subject and, through my hero, share a little about one of my dreams.

BPM:  How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
Though I write fiction, I tend to draw from my experiences in telling a story, but there is no direct relation.

BPM:   Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
With each book, I’m taking more risks and pushing myself beyond some self-imposed walls. I have to say that I love the growth, although it’s scary, and hope to continue challenging myself.

BPM:   Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
In researching the subject of PTSD, I came across many stories from veterans and their family members, ranging from heartbreaking to hopeful. One man had written a note saying he was tired of feeling like he didn’t matter. On the flip side, there’s the outpouring of love and support found on a site for those suffering with PTSD and their families. I also had an eye-opening conversation with my Army Veteran sister, who graciously shared part of her story.

BPM:   What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
My intention, first and foremost, is always to tell a satisfying love story. I want readers to be able to relax and escape into a world where, despite the flaws of each character and the struggles each may face, at the end of the journey there is true love.

BPM:  What does literary success look like to you?
I consider it literary success every time I finish a book. It gives me such a feeling of accomplishment.

BPM:   What projects are you working on at the present?
Currently, I am working on books three and four in The Grays of Los Angeles series. Brandon’s story, Giving My All To You, is scheduled for release May 2017 and Khalil’s story, A Touch Of Love, is scheduled for Nov 2017. I am also working on a novella, Whatever It Takes, which is Eve Thompson’s story (she was introduced in It’s Only You). I hope to release it in the first part of 2017.

BPM:   How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Website: http://www.sheryllister.com
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2bF1Vau
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/1slynne
Amazon Author Page:  http://amzn.to/2cerUUy
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sheryllisterauthor

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Places In My Heart by Sheryl Lister

Omar Drummond is a pro football superstar with a body that’s a pure work of art. But Morgan Gray is forbidden to act on their chemistry, or repeat their impulsive kiss. Proving her worth as a sports agent means securing the notorious celebrity as a client, not a lover. Yet between flowers, sweet notes and heady hotel interludes, Omar is shamelessly seducing her…

Other agents—and exes—have tried using Omar as a meal ticket, and he’s closed himself off from emotional entanglements. With Morgan, it’s a whole new playbook. Smart and tough, she can negotiate a contract and turn him on all in one go, and he craves more. But in matters of trust, he’s just fumbled badly. To win her he has to show her the man he can be away from the field and the limelight, and hope that this time they’re both playing for keeps.

Excerpt: Places In My Heart by Sheryl Lister

Omar scanned the yard and saw Morgan laughing with another player’s wife. They were the only two women who had joined in the otherwise all-male football game. She had impressed him with her offensive and defensive skills. Not many women—and none he’d dated—would subject themselves to a light tackle football game and not care about being dirty or having messy hair. But Morgan was different, and that turned him on.

“Man, you don’t have anything to worry about,” Malcolm said. “Roland will make sure you stay with the Cobras as long as you want.” When Omar didn’t comment, Malcolm leaned forward. “What’s up, Drummond?”

“I can’t go into details, but I think it’s time for a change. And this time, I want to steer clear of anybody involved in league politics. I need somebody else, Mal.”

Malcolm studied him for a moment and then said, “My sister is looking to get into the business.”

“Is that right? She’s an attorney?”

“Yeah. And she’s about as far away from league politics as you can get.”

“So, she knows the game well, huh?”

“As if she’s played it all her life,” Malcolm said.

Omar had thought that was the case, but hearing Malcolm confirm it solidified in his mind that she might exactly the person he needed to help him.

“Food’s ready,” Omar heard someone say.

He came to his feet, eager to end the conversation. Omar got in line with the rest of the guests, filled his plate and crossed the yard to where Morgan sat with her food. His intention had been to talk to her about a business proposition, but as soon as he sat and opened his mouth, two other women joined them and started a conversation about some popular television show. He promptly tuned out and dug into his meal.

“What about you, Drummond?”

His head popped up, and he met Morgan’s expectant gaze. “I’m sorry. What did you ask?”

“I asked which show was your favorite—Scandal or How to Get Away with Murder?”

“I don’t watch either show.”

Morgan slanted him a look. “Let me guess. You only watch sports or sports news.”

“No. I enjoy a good comedy or action movie, but I prefer reading to television.”

Surprise lit her eyes. “Reading?”

“Yeah, you know…books.”

“Wow, really, Omar? I would’ve never figured that out,” she said teasingly and rolled her eyes. The group laughed.

Omar smiled. She’d called him by his first name, something she had never done before. Their easy rapport gave him hope that she would be receptive to his plan. They finished eating while talking, and afterward, three other guys convinced Omar to join them in a card game. He kept one eye on his cards and the other on Morgan, waiting for a chance to get her alone.

His opportunity came three hands later when he saw her go inside. It took some serious patience to finish the game, especially since his partner seemed to contemplate every round. In Omar’s mind it was simple—you either had the card or you didn’t.

Marcus Dupree, wide receiver, threw up his hands. “Grant, do you think we could finish this game before the season starts? We only have a month.”

“My thoughts exactly,” Omar mumbled.

“Patience, my brothers,” Lucas Grant said. “I have to get my strategy together.” The middle linebacker employed the same tactics when watching plays develop and stopping runs between the tackles. Though effective on the field, today it only irritated Omar.

Omar shook his head. Minutes later, he tossed out his last card and stood. “Somebody else can take my spot. I’m done.” Without waiting for a reply, he headed for the sliding glass door that led to the kitchen and stepped inside. The sight of Morgan’s long bare legs stopped him in his tracks. She had changed into another pair of shorts that stretched taut over her backside as she reached for something in a cabinet. If he could just get one touch… Omar shook himself and quickly dismissed the notion.

“I see you changed.”

Morgan whirled around. “Oh. Drummond, you scared me.”

Back to last names again. “Sorry.”

She set the glass she had gotten on the counter and went to the refrigerator. “That’s okay. I had to shower. I can only take feeling grimy for so long.”

It took him a moment to realize she had commented on his previous statement. “I hear you. But you played a good game.”

“Are you referring to the interception or the touchdown?” she asked as she poured what looked like iced tea into the glass.

“A little cocky, aren’t you?”

She leaned against the counter, wrapped one arm around her middle and took a sip of her drink. “My game speaks for itself. Yours, on the other hand, can use some work.”

Omar closed the distance between them and braced his hands on the counter on either side of her. “Is that a challenge?”

She tilted her chin and stared at him intently. “You tell me.”

Their faces were inches apart. Common sense told him he should back up, but he couldn’t. Not when her full, gloss-slicked lips were calling to him. Without thinking about the ramifications, he crushed his mouth against hers and slid his tongue inside when her lips parted on a startled gasp. She came up on tiptoe and met him stroke for stroke, causing him to groan.

A second later Morgan stiffened and tore her mouth away. She pushed against his chest. “Move.”

Omar dropped his arms. “Morgan, I—” She brushed past him, and he reached out to stop her.

She slapped his hand away and kept walking.

“Morgan, wait. I need to talk to you.”

“I think you’ve said enough,” she called over her shoulder.

( Continued… )

© 2016 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Sheryl Lister. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

Purchase Places in My Heart (The Grays of Los Angeles)
Genre: Kimani Contemporary Romance
https://www.amazon.com/Places-Heart-Grays-Los-Angeles/dp/0373864701/

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/places-in-my-heart-sheryl-lister/1123346427

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JOY – Jesus on You by D. Michele Jackson

JOY – Jesus on You by D. Michele Jackson
Novel Based on a True Story – Travels of the Promises Trilogy (Book 2)

From the writer introduced in “Amazing Grace: A Tribute to You, The Story of Us”, D. Michele Jackson returns with questions. Is it not the right to be well in a country that offers civil liberties? This is a question Secret poses on her quest to revise the Nineteenth Amendment. On a mission to secure equality and address the social issues that plague health, Donna is chiming for change in her novel that is based on a true story, “JOY: Jesus on You”.

A native of the “City of Brotherly Love” and a registered nurse, Secret is on a mission to secure equality and address the social issues that plague health. She’ll also decide once and for all, if love conquers all.

In the midst of a bitter divorce weeks before Christmas in 2011, Secret finds herself in a small, Southern courtroom pitted in a vicious dogfight against The Paper. Secret is divorcing a retired sheriff deputy, who is working on a second career in law enforcement, who had a payroll deposit going into a bank account not listed in his name and a vehicle that he denied having, even though there was clear documentation that he is purchased the car. The Paper is a former police officer willing to break laws to protect his double life, even if it means committing perjury.

As she detangles herself in a fictional contract socially accepted as marriage, a document Secret deemed as “final,” Secret is lied to, deceived, and demoralized. What’s worst is the judge’s final verdict states clearly that Secret will also be displaced from her home. It is a home she’d won fairly. It’s a home she deserved. As the winds of change blow, Secret’s new normal is shaky, what isn’t is her sense of purpose.

Secret decides to take on the establishment, one that seems bent in destroying her. Besides her faith in God, it helps that as a nurse, Secret has had seventeen years of experience of what she recited at graduation, “I will do all in my power to maintain and elevate the standard of my profession in the practice of my calling.” Ultimately it’s clear that the local and federal court systems and the Paper offer her a platform to argue for wellness as a legal nurse consultant.

After her observation of threats to health as it relates to marriage, divorce, and law, she begins to question the definition of health as defined by the World Health Organization, “Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Over the next two years, she will submit brief after brief for judicial review, advocating for healthcare reform, especially when it comes to matters of divorce. Secret goes from that small courtroom in Georgia to argue in the United States Supreme Court. She isn’t ready or even able, but she chooses to fight the good fight—she chooses this fight, not with anger, but with heart, and she chooses this fight for all of us.

A narrative that is both heartfelt and impassioned, this novel loosely based on a true story is told in the first person from a retrospective point of view. As she offers a chronological glimpse of her journey, Secret considers her relationships prior to her marriage; each of these relationships offers health data that could be used for arguments pertaining to health in which she submitted for judicial review. Secret offers readers a biopic on sexually charged, if failed relationships, but the most telling health facts come from the man she divorces. Her experiences are reinforced by the statistical numbers presented by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention that, “Women account for one in four people living with HIV in the United States.”

In a Congressional Public Health and Safety Report, an argument is put forth that Congress consider the country’s wellness. Secret lends her voice. A voice that echoes what once sounded to promote women’s suffrage, “…liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants….” The issues include suffrage; healthcare cost; the uninsured; decreasing transmission of HIV/AIDS; criminal justice; unemployment; education; increased divorce rates; promotion of healthy families; and holding courts accountable to judicial prudence decisions, as they have a direct effect on health. Health is a universal right, and neglect of is an offense to wellbeing.

It’s the United States Supreme Court that Secret comes up against her greatest challenge to help ensure wellness. Secret requested to introduce Maslow Hierarchy of Human Needs. Secret’s stay request to an individual justice was on the grounds of Bounds v. Smith, which states, “The fundamental constitutional right of access to the courts held States must assure the indigent defendant an adequate opportunity to present his claims fairly.” Rivals against “justice for all” presented at the United States Supreme Court clerk who disregards the court rules preventing Secret’s stay application from being reviewed by an individual justice and the attorney who shows due diligence in defaming his oath that, “I offer fairness, integrity, and civility. I will seek reconciliation and, if we fail, I will strive to make our dispute a dignified one.”

Though blindsided and further disenchanted, Secret forwards a brief to the Department of Justice requesting a federal investigation pursuant to a constitutional rights violation, Section 35 of the Judiciary Act of 1789, Federal Statute 42 US 1983. She argues threat to civic danger, obligation to exercise judicial review by disregarding purported laws if they violate the Constitution, and addresses the rights of people worldwide. After being ignored by every system designed for protection against crimes, Secret writes to the 113th Congress for relief, and takes advantage of the opportunity to request policy changes as a politically active nurse requesting legislation that makes it a crime for a spouse to become infected while married related to failure to disclose sexual orientation.

Secret is currently waiting for a congressional response. It’s time for change.

Order JOY – Jesus on You by D. Michele Jackson
Novel Based on a True Story

Travels of the Promises Trilogy (Book 2)
http://www.dmichelejackson.com 
eBook Release Date: December 06, 2016

About the Author
Donna M. Jackson is an African-American woman, a Philadelphia native, Tuskegee University alumna, and a Registered Nurse. Writing as D. Michele Jackson, she now adds writer, published, politically active nurse to her accolades. Her sociology studies at Tuskegee University and twenty year nursing career enabled Donna to be prepared when the opportunity of Legal Nurse Consultant availed itself as she represented herself Pro Se in court. That experience allowed Donna to draft briefs during a historical time affording her a voice advocating for health. Donna submitted argument to Congress supporting amending the Nineteenth Amendment. Website: http://www.dmichelejackson.com

 

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Intimate Conversation with Kisha Green

Intimate Conversation with Kisha Green

Kisha Green is a published author, virtual assistant, literary consultant, promoter and book reviewer. She’s the owner of DivaBooksInc. It’s motto, ‘Turning literary dreams into published realities.’, she has a strong passion for assisting authors in their writing and making their dreams come true.

Aside from having a passion for supporting authors, Kisha is a well-established author. She’s been writing professionally since she was twenty-one. Her most popular novel is, ‘And Even If I did’, released in 2006.

Kisha Green is also the host of Writer’s Life Chats, an online radio show where she interviews aspiring and seasoned authors. Writer’s Life Chats has been nominated multiple times for Best Blog Talk Show, winning the title in 2009, 2010 and 2011. As an avid reader and book reviewer, Kisha Green’s reviews have appeared on Urban Book Source, Shelfari, Goodreads, Amazon and other notable sites.

In 2016, she was nominated for Literary Activist by AAMBC and is the recipient of the 2014 and 2016 Literary Excellence Award presented by Black Pearls Magazine.

As a firm believer in “each one, teach one,” Kisha Green launched Literary Jewels in 2011, an online resource for aspiring writers interested in self-publishing. She has also participated in numerous panel discussions on the topic of publishing. Currently, Kisha resides in New Jersey and is a contributing writer for Urban Tymes, LitIsh, and Literary Jewels. She can be found on many social media sites including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

BPM: Please tell us about your blog! What is the name? How did your blog get started? When did your group begin, what year? How many members do you have?
KG: My literary blog is called Literary Jewels (www.myliteraryjewels.com) and I started this blog back in 2007 named Writer’s Vibe on Myspace, which was later added to my personal website. In 2009 other writers began to write for the site and in 2011 it made it’s grand debut and relaunch as Literary Jewels.

BPM: What is the purpose for your blog? Does the name of your blog or store have a special meaning?
KG: My main focus for Literary Jewels is to provide content for readers from writers and there is an assortment of topics from new releases, book reviews, author spotlights, and commentaries. The name is a true reflection of what we are about. The writers and I are always dropping literary jewels (pertinent information) for authors to assist in their pursuit of self-publishing and the business of publishing.

BPM: Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
KG: Yes, I utilize several social networks to tell people about the books my staff or I have read.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
KG: I will read anything if it is well written. I love self-published authors, I am a self-published author myself so I understand their struggle when it comes to getting reviews on a new book when you are a newbie without dedicated readers. I do check out books from the library but not as often as I want due to the other books I have on my to be read list.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read? Have the types of books changed over time?
KG: I enjoy murder, suspense, erotica, romance, Christian fiction and some urban fiction. I believe that books have changed over time because the authors are rushing the process instead of investing in a quality editor and taking pride in their craft. Releasing a book as of lately by some authors is the new hustle and or a popularity contest as to who can put out a book the fastest. The person who ultimately suffers alongside the author is the reader since I now have to dissect the book in attempts to find out what they were ultimately trying to convey due to grammatical errors and or a poorly written book.

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
KG: In my opinion for a book to be considered a good book it is because it has either struck a nerve because you have connected with emotionally accurate characters and or powerful and strong story line with a well-executed plot. Ultimately it all comes down to great character development and a well-written story line.

BPM: Do you write and post book reviews to online retailers? How do you handle bad reviews or books that flopped?
KG: I post reviews on Amazon, BN, and Goodreads and in the 9 years of reviewing books, I have only had 2 authors ask me not to post their review (both were 2 stars). In those cases, I reached out to the author and spoke to them directly and we both agreed that I would not post the review.

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book? What books are on your reading schedule?
KG: I am currently reading Second House from The Corner by Sadeqa Johnson and I met this author at the National Book Club Conference and she sent me the book to review as she would be an upcoming guest on my radio show, Writer’s Life Chats. As a reviewer, I get books mailed to me all the time from various publishers and authors and I read them in the order they are received.

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats, and discussions? How can we follow you online? Do you have a website or social media pages?
KG: Yes, I would love to attend any future literary events you are having. Please keep in touch and keep me posted. You can contact me via email, social media or my website.

Kisha Green Publisher, DivaBooksInc
Email: kisha@divabooksinconline.com
Website: http://www.divabooksinconline.com

Twitter: @KishaGreen
Periscope: @KishaGreen
Instagram: @KishaGreen
Facebook: @AuthorKishaGreen
Snapchat: @KishaGreen732

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Intimate Conversation with Sistahs and Friends Book Club

Intimate Conversation with Sistahs and Friends Book Club

Founders of Sistahs and Friends – Yvette Barrett, Malinda Burden and Priscilla Myers. In December, 2014 we lost our 4th founder, Theresa Jackson.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How did your club get started?  Does the name of the club have a special meaning? How many members do you have? 
Sistahs and Friends Book Club started in 1997, in Chicago, when 4 young professional co-workers, Priscilla Myers, Theresa Jackson, Malinda Burden and Yvette Barrett discovered they shared a common passion. That passion was the love of reading and the desire to share their thoughts with each other. We had our first book club discussion in a conference room during our lunch hour. It was such a great experience that we decided to continue and called ourselves, Sistahs Bookclub. Later on we had a male that wanted to join us. So in fairness to him and other potential males, we changed our name to Sistahs and Friends Bookclub. We started with 4 and currently have 12 members.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Is there something in particular that makes your group different from other groups? 
Sistahs and Friends unites mature women and men from diverse backgrounds together in sister and brotherhood. We promote spiritual, motivational and intellectual development and awareness through the reading of fiction and non-fiction books, embracing the style and diversity of each member and each author. What we thought would be just a past time, for getting together among friends and sharing views on literature, led to so much more. We increased our membership, produced a mission statement, elected officers, created by-laws, paid dues, and 19 years later we are still Sistahs and Friends Book Club.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
Sistahs and Friends exemplify the true essence of sisterhood. Our legacy will be that true Sistahs support, lift and motivate each other not tear them down.

BPM: Tell us about your members. What is the demographic of your group? How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole? 
Our members are mature professionals who all grew up from various backgrounds and areas in the city of Chicago. We started this group 19 years ago as “Bubbies” and have grown into mature outgoing, outspoken women who love a great book, with a great meal, a great glass of wine and a great discussion. These is no room and no tolerance for pettiness and or catiness. We may not always agree on the rating of a book but we will always have a great debate regarding the merits of our selections or lack thereof.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Has it been difficult to get people to join the group or to stay in the group? Do you have an online version of the group?
We look for someone who will fit in our circle and have the passion for reading as we do. When a vacancy occurs, we invite the potential member to a meeting to ensure that their personalities mesh with the current membership. We have never had a problem attracting members however in the beginning we had problem retaining them. Some members were not committed to reading which lead to the creation of bylaws which have proved to solve the problem. Our current members have been active 10 years or more.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
By everybody sharing their own opinion of the book it leads to great conversations. Sometimes we can walk into the meeting ready to give a low rating and after much discussion it can easily be adjusted higher. Our sistahs are definitely not shy, they are very outspoken and will tell you like it is with no regrets. Many authors have experienced the brutal truths of Sistahs and Friends. Sometimes a reading guide is helpful but we don’t always use. We have very creative members who come up with games, quizzes, etc. to engage the group and stimulate conversation during the meeting.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers? 
Sistahs and Friends Book Club’s season is from September – May. During the May meeting members randomly select a month to host for the next season. It is the responsibility of the host to select the book for the month which she is hosting. Most of the members make their selection based on recommendations from family and friends, reading over the summer or just reading reviews on-line. There have been times when some of us have read another book and discussed it outside of the book of the month for the bookclub. We share our book selections (2011 to present) on our website.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
In the early years of Sistahs and Friends we only read books by African American authors. However over the years we have developed an appetite to broaden our horizon and not limit ourselves. During the years we have supported all authors as well as self-published authors and invited some of them to attend our bookclub discussions (via in person, Skype, FaceTime and conference call). Yes, a few of our members still borrow books from the library but the majority have Kindle or a Reader.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? Have the types of books changed over time? 
The types of books we prefer to read has changed over the years, in the beginning we read books by authors like E. Lynn Harris, Michael Baisden, James Patterson, Eric Jerome Dickey, Terry McMillan, Zane and J. California Cooper. The books dealt with short stories, sex and relationships respectively. As we have matured so have our books. Today, we read books by authors like Brandon Massey (Don’t Ever Tell), Khaled Hosseini (Kite Runner), Pamela Samuels Young (Anybody’s Daughter), Dwayne Alexander Smith (Forty Acres), and Daniel Black (Perfect Peace) and Naleighna Kai (Every Woman Needs a Wife). As you can see our selection of books have expanded and our members have welcomed all authors regardless of ethnicity.

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons?
Here are a few that received the highest rating that we give – (5stars) Good To The Last Drop.
Standing at the Scratch Line – Guy Johnson
Forty Acres – Dwayne Alexander Smith
Perfect Peace – Daniel Black
Kite Runner – Khaled Hosseini
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skoot
The Red Tent – Anita Diamant
My Soul to Keep – Tananarive Due
Redeeming Love – Francine Rivers
The Douglass Women – Jewell Parker
No Regrets – Patricia Haley

BPM: Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities? Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
Sistahs and Friends started out doing a grab bag each Christmas but decided that we wanted to give back to the community instead. So now we do just that. We have worked with Chicago Public Schools, DCFS, and St. Joseph Children’s Hospital. Through them we have provided children with everything from clothing, school supplies to toys. This year we decided to change our focus gave to a domestic violence shelter. We provided them with purses filled with all the day to day necessities. We are very proud of our accomplishments and it fills us with such satisfaction to see the smiles. Sistahs and Friends have an outing once a year in the summer (during our break) to do something fun with each other (dinner, painting, plays, and architectural tours). We have also hosted a luncheon, had weekend trips to Wisconsin, San Francisco and next year our 20th Anniversary (TBD).

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who are in or who might want to start a book club?
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t start out with committed members. It took us at least 10 years before we had truly committed members. We had to develop bylaws to vet out serious readers versus those who were only in the club to eat, drink and be merry. As a result, some members have come and gone. Also, don’t look for members who are all exactly like you. You will end up with the Stepford Book Club and this will make for very boring conversations. What has kept us going over the years is our passion for good reads, our like of each other and our mutual respect of each others differences.

BPM: Can we invite you to future events and discussions? Do you have a website or social media pages?
We would love to receive an invite for future events, chats and discussions. You can follow us below on our website, email and Facebook.

Website: sistahsandfriendsbookclub.com
Facebook: Sistahs and Friends

 

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Intimate Conversation with Cilla’s Book Maniacs

Intimate Conversation with Cilla’s Book Maniacs

Priscilla C. Johnson, aka ‘Cilla, is the founder of Cilla’s Book Maniacs. Cilla developed a love of reading and books during childhood where she would spend hours in the library waiting for her brothers and her mother while they were practicing sports.

Having friended the owners of a local AA Book store in 1999, Cilla began working there part-time just to be close to the books. It was at this time that she began building relationships with her favorite author, scheduling book events and books signings. Cilla joined Beverly Jenkins Yahoo Group where she developed friendships with the women and they began traveling together to various book events.  In 2015, Cilla began PCJ Consultant Group, LLC where she helps aspiring authors achieve their dreams of getting published, organize and build street teams, and introducing authors to new readers and book clubs.

BPM: What is the name of your reading group? 
Cilla’s Book Maniacs official began in 2010 although we have been around for several years. A portion of the group that is not on social media and they are in a Yahoo Group called Readers Who Enjoy Black Romance. Priscilla is the lead person since she knows how to keep everyone in line and up-to-date on what is going on in most literary circles.

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole? 
We are comprised of readers and authors from states all across the county. Our ages range from 25-70. We also have a few males in the group.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Is there something that makes your group different? 
Our main purpose is to simply share our love of books, encourage and support each other and have fun. We travel together to various conferences, particularly the Romance Slam Jam Conference, where we have been named 2015 and 2016 Spirit Book Club of the Year.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? 
Since we are an on-line club our taste in books range from romance, historical romance, erotica, paranormal, Christian, and interracial. Generally if someone reads a good book, we will post the title and author. We also support the authors in the group.

BPM: Do you like to find new authors and interact online? 
We find new authors at events and conferences. When we find or come across someone we think everyone will enjoy, we simple post the author and book in the group or we will post the review. 

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about any authors? 
Social media has introduced us to a lot of authors we would not ordinarily chose to read. Current Author favorites: Keith Thomas Walker, Eva J Brock, Beverly Jenkins, Brenda Jackson, All of our Club Authors (they know who they are )

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club? 
Find a group of people that you like and enjoy to be with or have similar interest. Keep everything fun – leave the personal stuff outside. Remember – every book is not for everybody and its ok to not like a book.

BPM: What has the main focus become over the years? 
The Maniacs has primarily been a private social group. Now that were have won two book clubs awards, we are beginning to branch out and try new things.

Photo: Group at the 2016 Romance Slam Jam Conference

 

 

 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Destined Readers Book Club

Intimate Conversation with Destined Readers Book Club
Tiffany Booker, Co-founder

Destiny Hawkins and Tiffany Booker are the Co-founders of Destined Readers Book Club. Destiny Hawkins is an Admin. Asst., a wife, a mother of two sons, ages 17 and 18, and the adoptive mother of two small furry dogs. Destiny enjoys attending book events.

Tiffany Booker is a children’s author, a current middle school teacher, a wife, and mother to two young men, ages 19 and 9. Tiffany hopes book clubs will some day become a thing of the future where being a book club member will be as prevalent as being a sorority member. Books are Tiffany’s passion of choice.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club. Where are you located? 
Destined Readers Book Club was founded in Marietta, Georgia in August 2014 by Co-founders Destiny Hawkins and Tiffany Booker. We started a book club out of the sheer frustration from attending several meetings of another book club whose club seemed, to us, to be very snooty. They did not have a sense of genuine warmth, fun, nor true friendships in their club. Destiny and I are very down to earth people and have a lot in common, so we wanted to create a book club with like minded women as well.

Destiny Hawkins is so humble that she makes it a point to ensure everyone knows that she WAS NOT responsible for creating the name of our book club. It was actually my idea to name the club Destined Readers Book Club. Due to our frustration with the other book clubs unwelcoming club culture, we WERE DESTINED to begin our own club. The rest as they say, is history or in our case HERstory. Although we are still a fairly new club, we are nine members strong with several prospective members awaiting acceptance. We want to keep our book club at a maximum of 15 dedicated members. We are still accepting applications for serious, avid readers.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? 
The purpose of Destined Readers Book Club is to develop a culture for the love of books, the genuine friendship of other like minded women and to have fun while enjoying a passion for reading. Our motto “Books, Friendship, and Fun” makes us different from other book clubs because we love books. 

Our book kinship with one another has allowed us to forge ongoing, true and genuine friendships that we know will last a lifetime, all while having fun doing it. For example, one of our members took a teaching job in Japan, but she comes back every year to visit the club and facilitates a book discussion. This is a true example of what our club means to her. It’s the friendships, the fun and the books that keeps her coming back. 

We invite potential members to attend as guests just to get a feel for the women whom they will spend time with once a month. If potential members do not feel comfortable at any point in our group there is no harm in not joining the club. We have successfully developed a culture of a genuine kinship.

BPM: Tell us about your members. What is the demographic of your group?
Our members are truly fun women to hang out with, they’re like sisters to us. We listen to each other and respect one another no matter the difference of opinions on a discussion or book choice. Respect is the key to our book club’s success. We have members who are working mothers to retired teachers. This makes for great book discussions and a variety of opinions from various backgrounds and ages. 

The demographics of our group ranges in the Metro Atlanta area. We have members who live in Atlanta, Douglasville, Marietta, McDonough, Decatur, Lithonia, and Covington, Georgia. Whomever is the facilitator for the month selects the location where our meetings will be held, that way no one is always driving out of their way every month and not subjected to one area of Metro Atlanta.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Has it been difficult to get people to join the group or to stay in the group? Do you have an online version of the group?
When we accept members into the group we first allow them to come to two meetings as a guest just to get a feel for the group as a whole. We allow other members to interact with them before Destiny and Tiffany make the final decision on allowing members to join. The beauty of founding our own club is that we make our own rules so Destiny and Tiffany are like Ying and Yang. If Tiffany is wrong about a certain persons personality, Destiny is able to see what Tiffany doesn’t see or vice versa. Most times, Tiffany is a good judge of character because Tiffany is truly a people person, but when Tiffany is right about a person it’s 90% accurate and when Tiffany is not right, Destiny is able to catch when Tiffany is not 100% accurate about a potential member. 

Both Destiny and Tiffany discuss whether or not a potential member is a good fit for the club. The road has not been easy to get members to stay in the group, because there have been times where some members felt it has been a challenge to stay in the group. We had to set certain standards for Destined Readers Book Club and one of our standards is although our ideal membership limit is 15 members, we are fine with having less than that, because we’d rather have 9 dedicated members than 15 drop in when you feel like dropping in and not taking our book club serious. As we continued to set higher standards for our club, some members felt it was too difficult to attend a meeting 6 times a year, which to me isn’t a difficult task if you love books. But we will not allow a member to attend a meeting once a year and allow them to continue their membership. That is just ludicrous to assume that we would, but we have had past members who we’ve had to terminate their membership for not meeting the minimum of our standards. 

We are content with our decisions to keep growing and learning from our mistakes, but collectively, we continue to strive for greatness. Destined Readers Book Club also interviews our potential members to find out more information about them, we gauge their commitment at the time of the interview so that we find the right fit for our book club. 

Currently, we do not have an online group, however, we do have a public Facebook page where the public can find out more about the current books we are reading, various book events, new releases, or anything related to books in general. If a member is not able to attend a live discussion, we do allow them to Skpe in or answer the prepared discussion questions as a means to substitute for their physical presence at a meeting.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic or roam?
In Tiffany’s opinion, what makes a good book club conversation is our unique Trivia Question segment of the meeting. It is our tradition to ask random trivia questions to our members as a good book conversation starter. This keeps members on their toes in reading the selected novel thoroughly and paying attention to key details in the book. This leads into a well prepared discussion. We either use the available reading guide the author has provided or we use our own to lead the discussions, but the key is having fun while doing it. Our trivia questions are the key to our book club discussions. Most times if the book is interesting enough, then we tend to keep the book discussion on topic, however, if for some reason we conclude that the current book was either boring or we didn’t like the book, we tend to roam off topic, but our agenda keeps us on task to ensure we do not waste valuable time during the book discussions.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? 
Another great aspect to founding our own book club is the beauty of choice. We allow our members to choose the book they want to read. Since we are an African American book club we only request that members chose an African American author. We allow our members to chose the book of their choice and they are allowed to choose the location of the discussion as well. Even if a member is not into a certain genre of book, the option for our members to decide helps broaden our perspective on potential books we may have never thought to read or due to our complacency to become comfortable with the genre of our own choice. 

Destined Readers Book Club takes you out of your comfort zone, we hope to broaden members views of various styles of writing. We try to meet the needs of all our members, this gives them a voice and a choice in their club, it also gives them autonomy. Destiny Hawkins, our co-founder, maintains the calendar of book choices for our members. The book has to be selected at least two months in advance to be placed on the calendar.

BPM: What are you reading now? What books are on your reading schedule? 
Our October book of the month is The Deal, The Dance and The Devil by Victoria Christopher Murray. This book was selected by our member of the year, Rose. She has read the book before and thought it would be a great book to discuss. Some of the books on our current calendar includes: Glass Houses By Brian W. Smith, The Book of Harlan By Bernice L. Mc Fadden, The Practice Wife By Marissa Monteilh, and WomanIsh By Angelia Vernon Menchan. 

We just finished reading Silver Sparrow by Tayari Jones, and we can never forget our most dedicated author JoDee Sanders who wrote Sugarland, and SugarFree, which we have read in the past and we will be reading his upcoming release to his new book called Sugarless next year.

BPM: How can we follow you online? Do you have a website or social media pages?
You can invite us to future events, any social media chats and discussions. We welcome the opportunity. You can follow us at the following outlet – https://www.facebook.com/ DestinedReadersBookClubATL

 

 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Divas LNPU Book Club

Intimate Conversation with Divas LNPU Book Club

My name is Toshona E. Carter and I am the Founder and President of this awesome book club, Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Club. I currently reside in Little Rock, Arkansas. My hobbies include reading, shopping, traveling and cooking. I work for the State of Arkansas as a Case Manager II.

BPM: Please tell us about Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Club! 
Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned is located in Little Rock, Arkansas. After I mentioned to a small group of sister-friends that I loved to read and that I had formerly been in two book clubs, requests were made for me to start my own book club because they also loved reading. Divas Leaving no Pages Unturned Book Club was established on July 17, 2010. Our first meeting was held at Texas Roadhouse Restaurant in Little Rock with only four members. We have grown to 18 members and counting.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? 
Divas Leaving no Pages Unturned was created to promote “Togetherness” among all Women of Color. When we thought of the word Diva we thought of someone beautiful, who knew what they wanted and would do what it takes to make things happen. Our invigorating club thrives on our goal to enrich the lives of women “one page at a time” through literacy and community service. Our mission is to help uplift, magnify, encourage, respect and provide a nurturing environment for women of color, who are strong mentally, physically, spiritually by educating, encouraging and supportive of others while utilizing “POSITIVE” energy.

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
Our main focus over the years has been on community service. We have given money and our time to many local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the Union Rescue Mission, Arkansas Food Bank, Ronald McDonald House, The Dorcas House for Battered Women & Children, New Beginnings Pregnancy Resource Center, Fund-a-night Stay at the 20th Century Lodge in Little Rock for cancer patients and the Salvation Army, just to name a few. We have participated in numerous community service projects over the past six years.

We would like for those watching in the community to make meaningful and lasting contributions to those in need. We also ask the community to become game changers by striving to make a difference. We hope people will follow our lead in helping others in ways that will create an everlasting impact. At the end of the day, we hope what we do will some how positively impact society by way that we serve. We would like to encourage everyone to be a Drum Major as in the late, great, Martin Luther King Jr’s Sermon “The Drum Major Instinct. “What are you doing to serve?  Everybody can be great and serve. Be willing to leave a committed life behind as Mr. King stated.

Another focus of our Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Clubis to promote literacy by encouraging others to regularly pick up a book and to support local and well-known authors.

BPM: Tell us about your members. What is the demographic of your group?
Currently we have twelve members all whom are women of color ranging from ages 29-50. The name of the members are: Toshona Carter, Kimberly Melikian, Donna Parks, LaToshia Enoch-Elston, Tanya Davis, Angela Davis, Erica Whitfield, Iris Whitfield, Cassandra Wallace,Sheereen Watkins, Jessica Robinson, Kamesha Lindsey, Erica Love Mack, Shonda Wade, Angela Winston, Nakia Bolden, Janai Taylor Harris, and Evelyn White.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Has it been difficult to get people to join the group or to stay in the group?  
When accepting members into the group we look for an avid reader, someone who doesn’t mind helping and giving back to the community; someone who is definitely willing to give up one Saturday a month. At this point, I would say it hasn’t been hard to get people to join. Right now, I have a few waiting to join when we have open enrollment.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
In my opinion, a good book club conversation is when all the members have totally read the book and they’re able to have a productive discussion. We normally stay on topic as well as give examples of things that relate to life or life experiences regarding the book being discussed. At times the availability of a reading guide does help generate questions that we may have not thought to ask.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers? 
In the beginning, every other month, a member would take a turn selecting a book to discuss.
Currently, we accept books from authors from the months of October- December to be put on our Potential Book Selection for the Year List. Each book is reviewed and then in January the members vote on which books will be read for the New Year. Regardless, all submissions will be read as a side-bar read or given to my club’s book reviewers to submit a review online. We often share our featured books with local book clubs, readers in the  Facebook Group entitled Face Book Turners and within our own individual social circles.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you borrow books from the library? 
Yes, we prefer to read books by authors of color, but are open to read any book that is informative or a good read. The first book we read as a group was Blues Day was by self-published author Adrienne Thompson and we have been reading her works ever since. We have borrowed books from the library, as well as recommended many of the books we have read to be added to their shelves.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group?
Romance, Christian, Non-fiction, Urban fiction, Street Life, Science Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Inspirational, Biography, Autobiography, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Parable, Educational or a documentary. The club is open to any suggestions. We are not limited to just African American books.

BPM: What books are on your reading schedule?
We recently read and discussed Unlawful Deception live with author Pamela Samuels Young. This book was selected from Ms. Ella’s Black Pearls Magazine list of books to read.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events?
I think it is a great opportunity to connect with the authors at these events and to ask any question(s) you may have. We are getting ready to host our First Empowerment Book Signing with local authors in the Little Rock, Arkansas. We will have about ten authors who will participate in a panel discussion, as well as give autographs. They will also have books available for sell.

BPM: Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities? 
During the year we host empowermrnt sessions for women. In the past sessions, we have brought in speakers discussing finances, health, beauty and entrepreneurship, along with grant writing.

BPM: Which is the preferred way to find new books: a friend’s recommendation; on social media; or advertisement for the book, such as: online radio, newsletter eblast, contests or tagging on FB?
The preferred ways we find new books are:  through social media, author suggestions to the book club and sources like Black Pearls Magazine and Ms. Ella’s BAN Radio. We find alot of books from friend’s recommendations, Facebook Author Pages, group pages such as FB Turners.

BPM: Do you purchase books online or in a bookstore? Do you prefer to read digital books? 
Most times we purchase our books via Amazon. I often find it is easier to read a digital book. I would still buy some printed books to keep for my book collection and to share with others.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club?
Make sure that you have a group of people willing to work together to make a positive impact, so that everyone can get something out of the club. Also, make sure you have a group of people who are really avid readers and not occasional readers. You have to realize you will have members that will come and go and that’s ok.

BPM: Do attend Twitter chats or Facebook chats? Would you like to chat with your favorite authors on Skype, FaceTime or over the phone? Who would you like to speak to?
In the past we have hosted Facebook chats with authors to discuss their books. We would love to chat with some of our favorite authors on Skype or over the phone. We would love to speak with Reshonda Tate Billingsley and Victoria Christopher Murray and Lutishia Lovely.

BPM: How can we follow you online? Do you have a website or social media pages?
Twitter:  @ divas_bookclub
Instagram:   divas_bookclub
Facebook: Divas Leaving no Pages Unturned Book Club
 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Brown Girls Read

Intimate Conversation with Brown Girls Read

BPM: Please tell us about your blog, bookstore or book club. Where are you located? 
Tamela C. Todd founded Brown Girls Read in March, 2016. The program provides age and grade level appropriate workshops that are engaging and educational. There currently are 40 members enrolled in the program.  Brown Girls Read operates out of the Northwest Activity Center on Detroit’s westside near Meyers Rd.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? 
Brown Girls Read is a book club/mentoring program. Our purpose is to increase adolescent literacy and to empower our youth in the community. Our program strives to provide workshops that are both fun and educational. The members learn essay writing, tips for applying for college, best practices for obtaining financial aid, money management and more.

BPM: Tell us about your contributing members. What is the demographic of your group? 
Our clubs are divided into groups based on age and grade level for girls ages 7-15. The groups are as follows:
Group Yellow:  ages 7-9
Group Orange: ages 10-12
Group Green:   ages 13-15

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? 
Brown Girls Read has a theme for each month. Book selections are based off of that particular theme. Example: For November our members will read about voting, presidents, debates. We feature our monthly books, for all three groups, on our website.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you borrow books from the library?
Brown Girls Read book club is open to all books as long as they fit the age range for our youth. We are very supportive of all authors. Yes, I personally borrow books form the library.

BPM: What are you reading now? What books are on your reading schedule?
Currently I am reading: Successful Women Think Differently by Valorie Burton. I founded this book scrolling though my Facebook timeline. On my personal reading schedule will be: Act like a Success, Think like a Success by Steve Harvey and Marriage Unbreakable the War Against Divorce by Dawn M. Harvey

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events?
I absolutely love any type of literacy event. Two months ago Brown Girls Read was apart of the Motor City Book Experience where we met other book clubs and many wonderful authors promoting their books. In June, 2017 Brown Girls Read will be looking forward to attending the 9th Annual AAMBC Literacy Awards in Atlanta, GA.
I would like to see more participation from the community at literary events.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? Do you prefer to read digital books? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
Answer: Yes, Brown Girls Read purchases books online and at local bookstores. No, I don’t care for digital books at all! I would never stop buying printed books. I enjoy having my books in hand.

Submitted by Tamela Todd, Founder/Director
www.browngirlsread.org –  #browngirlsread

 

 

 

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Leron Young’s Urban/R&B Smooth Soul Compilation CD

Leron Young’s Urban/R&B
 Smooth Soul Compilation CD

A new compilation CD of Leron Young’s best smooth jazz, blues guitar and inspirational instrumentals is now available on CD Baby. Smooth, Soulful and Melodic Urban/R&B. The music can be downloaded here:  http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/leronyoung2 

Genres You Will Love by Leron Young
Jazz: Smooth Jazz
Moods: Guitar Blues
Moods: Instrumental
Spiritual: Inspirational

About the Artist
Leron Young moved to Washington, DC with his mother from South Carolina when he was six years old. His mother gave him a guitar when he was eight years old and he taught himself how to play it. Later in life he met a singing group called the Unifics at Howard University and started performing with them during the late sixties and early seventies. He also played guitar with the Five Stairsteps and Luther Ingram at Stax Records.

Leron studied electronics at a vocational high school in Washington, DC and studied electrical engineering in college. He worked as an engineer in corporate America, servicing CAT scanners and MRI machines in the medical field.

After starting his own business in1989, Leron mentored young musicians for the next twenty-six years. Music is his first love, but he saw a need to encourage better health and wellness in his community. He wrote his first book, “How Is My T.E.D.D.Y. ” Asking the question “How is My Teddy”? will help readers stay focused on the important things in life.

T.E.D.D.Y. Is a tool used to help develop a life of joy, good health, and well-being. The Teddified brand is catching on with people seeking a path to wholeness. Leron’s books are listed on Amazon at: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1502408562 

In August, 2016, a new compilation CD of Leron’s best smooth jazz, blues guitar and inspirational instrumentals was released on CD Baby. The music can be downloaded from CD Baby here: http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/Laron

 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Angie Ransome-Jones

Intimate Conversation with Angie Ransome-Jones

As a new author, Angie Ransome-Jones has already made her mark in the literary world since publishing in September 2015. Her self-published book entitled “Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One,” chronicles her journey or finding peace after the sudden and devastating loss of her father in 2013. Now she has made it her mission and ministry to help others suffering the loss of a loved one, by providing advice on how to prepare for the inevitable and coping in the aftermath. After undergoing what she refers to as “the process,” Angie discovered that there is much more to death than laying a person to rest and outlines in the book, practical steps to not only dealing with loss, but preparing for it financially, spiritually and emotionally.

Since its release, “Path to Peace” has received wide acclaim – Angie has been a guest on both the Good Morning Texas and Local Memphis Live morning shows. “Path to Peace” was also recognized as a Good Read by the Arkansas Times and included in its 2015 Holiday Gift Guide and was on Amazon’s bestseller’s list for several weeks in 2016. Angie was also a featured author at the 2016 National Book Club Conference (NBCC) in Atlanta.

She holds an MBA and full-time position as a Banking Vice President and Project Manager and serves as a freelance yoga instructor, and has her own non-proift 501C-3 organization (Magnifying our Mothers M.O.M.).

When not traveling across the country sharing her message, Angie is spending time with her husband and two sons.
Lastly, Angie is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Toastmasters International.

“Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One,” chronicles one daughter’s journey of finding peace after the devastating loss of her father. In the midst of grieving, Angie Ransome-Jones was suddenly faced with laying her father to rest, settling his financial affairs and reconciling her unresolved feelings over the loss of her mother. Watch as Path to Peace author Angie Ransome-Jones talks about preparing for the inevitable on WFAA- Good Morning Texas. To watch the interview replay, go here.  Death is difficult but inevitable. Path to Peace provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!  

BPM: Who is Angie Ransome-Jones?
Wow, great question! First and foremost, I am a Servant of the Lord; but I’m also a servant to those who need me. I am a mother a wife, a friend, a sister, a free spirit, a volunteer, and a yogi. I am many different things to many different people! My legal name is Angela D. Jones. I became Angie Ransome-Jones in 2015 after my Dad passed away and I published my first book, dedicated to his memory. Prior to that, only my friends and family knew and referred to me as Angie. Now, the masses know me as Angie and I’m ok with that because now I feel more free to be the same person in both worlds – personal and professional; although I still choose to keep both worlds very separate.

BPM: Have you always known you wanted to be an author? 
No, I never had great aspirations to be an author. Writing a book was on my long Bucket List; but I never imagined that my book would be centered around such circumstances and would lead to this wild, but rewarding ride that I’m now on!

BPM: What led you to write: “Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One”?
The sudden death of my father, Albert D. Ransome, in 2013 caused me to write the book not only as a therapeutic outlet and a “release” for myself; but also as a tool to educate others on the numerous things that I learned during the process of laying him to rest and settling his earthly affairs. As a bonafide “Daddy’s Girl,” my father was the closest person to me after my mom passed away, so as you can imagine, losing him so suddenly was truly devastating for me.

BPM: Why did you choose this title?
My editor and I considered a number of different titles and covers, but this one best described my journey in terms of the path that I traveled, which eventually led to an evolving peace for me. This same “peace” has allowed me to look at life very differently than I did before.

BPM: What were some of the benefits you experienced writing the book?
The book has allowed me to connect with thousands of people from all walks of life who have either had an experience similar to mine, know someone who has or are preparing themselves for the experience losing someone. It has also allowed me to travel the country speaking to and educating others on the subject and the necessity of preparing for the inevitable, which is death. The money I receive from doing what I consider to be “God’s assignment,” is just icing on the cake for me!

BPM: What were your most challenging moments writing the book?
Trying to separate my raw emotions from the facts and information that would be beneficial to readers dealing with loss. My editor revised it at least 7-8 times to ensure that it was transparent, without being too revealing in terms of my personal life.

BPM: Can you share one specific point in your book that resonated with you the most?
I think it would have to be the necessity of having what I refer to as a “Control Book.” in place. Having a Will and Life Insurance are necessary also, but just having something documented; a roadmap, if you will, for your family in case of your death, is just as critical!

BPM: Death is such a sensitive topic and is widely avoided, what are some ways survivors can effectively prepare for their own death to give their family peace when they leave this earth?
You’re absolutely right. My job is very tough in that my book is not something that all people are receptive to, because it deals with such an uncomfortable and taboo subject. But I can’t stress enough the importance of having those conversations, as difficult as they are, with your loved ones about your wishes. It should be a two-way conversation so that everyone is on the same page. And ensuring that those you entrust to carry on your legacy after you are gone are well-prepared; both directionally and financially.

BPM: What is it like to read the reviews of strangers who have read your book?
It is THE THING that keeps me going. Hearing my words repeated in context to how they affected a person’s life in terms – whether they related to it or reacted to it – is the most rewarding piece for me.

BPM: How has writing about your story impacted your life now?
I have definitely been busier than I have ever been in life, but in a great way!! I never imagined that the book would take off; let alone be a bestseller! I have been interviewed a number of times, featured in numerous magazines and recently appeared on Good Morning Texas, which was my first live TV appearance. I will appear again live on the Local Memphis Live show, which is similar to GMT. I feel blessed and honored and humbled that God has chosen me to deliver such an important message.

BPM: What advice would you give to someone who wants to write about their story?
I truly believe that everyone has a story in them; no matter if it’s a trial they’ve been through or a story of triumph or lessons learned they want to share. I used to consider myself an “accidental author” but then I stopped calling myself that because I realize that all of this was by design. God turned my pain in losing my father; actually both of my parents, into my purpose. In the words of the late, great Elie Wiesel, I encourage anyone who “survives a test, whatever it may be,” to tell his/her story because “it is his duty.”

BPM: Do you have any other organizations you are part of? If yes, please share.
Yes, I have a non-profit 501C-3 organization that myself and my Vice President Renea Mewborn started in 2010 called Magnifying our Mothers (M.O.M.). For years after my mother’s death from cancer in 2002, I struggled with Mothers Days and holidays in general; so founding M.O.M. came out of my desire to break that cycle and do something positive instead, that would not only help people who were bereaved, but also change my mindset about her death and make her very proud! M.O.M. assists the bereaved, including children who have lost one or more of their parents through the offering of donations to other local/nationwide charities, grief counseling resources, financial support (funeral expenses, etc.) and we are in the process of setting up scholarships for bereaved children under our Legacy Keeper Kids umbrella.

BPM: What else can we expect to see from you? 
Another great question! My plan is to take a break to focus on my youngest son, who will be leaving home to attend college out-of-state. However, I want to continue to be led by God and let Him continue to order my steps, whatever that may be. I do have plans; however, to publish a companion Control Book that will accompany Path to Peace, which will come out sometime in 2017.

BPM: Please tell everyone how you can be contacted to support you by purchasing your products/services, book you for their upcoming events, or partner with you in your vision.
I’m more than happy to partner with others, answer questions, come and speak, etc.! People can reach me via email at:  info@authorangiejones.com  or  through my Author Angie Jones Facebook page. 

My website is http://www.path-2-peace.com  and they can purchase copies of my book there or via Amazon.com. 

Thank you so much for the opportunity Ella – I love and admire you more than you know for your loving kindness and authenticity and for executing your God-given vision!

Website: http://www.path-2-peace.com
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authorARJones

 

 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Sage

Intimate Conversation with Sage

Sage was born and raised in Huntingtown, MD. She has been married to her best friend, for over ten years and they have two amazing sons. She is also an Autism advocate and a parent of an autistic child, which inspired her to write a non-fiction book on raising a child on the Autism spectrum, The Optimistic Autistic: Our Testimony.

Sage also writes mysteries centered on characters that are close to the heart. She has vowed to produce books that encourage the reader to deliberately read; not just for entertainment but to read with the intention of solving the mystery along with the Detective.

Her belief that, “if you don’t see the books you’re searching for write them” has inspired her to write with a purpose and a passion.

BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing? 
Reading and writing are life-long passions of mine. I have been indulging in my passion of writing since I was 13. I want to share my passion of writing psychological thrillers with the world.  My mother was the first person to place a book in my hands. My father taught me how to work hard at the things that I wanted in life. I worked at achieving my Master’s Degree in Computer Science in 2009. I am now funneling that same determination and tenacity in marketing my book series.

BPM: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you? 
I love to read different types of books, but I have a preference for mystery and thrillers. I enjoy a heart pumping adrenaline rush type of book. It was my love of mysteries and thrillers that stoked my interests in writing. The under-representation of African American characters in the books I read resonated within me. I am inspired to fill the void with my murder mystery series.

BPM: What hurdles, if any, did you have to overcome as a new author and business owner? 
It’s difficult to get noticed in this industry as a mystery author. It seems like the publishers want to pigeon hole authors into one genre. It is my goal to abolish the myth that we only write urban themed books. My goal is to show through my books that black authors write thought provoking, suspense-driven novels as well.

BPM: What’s the most important quality a writer should have in your opinion? 
Passion is the most important quality a writer can possess. Passion invokes determination, which in turn creates a hunger so intense that the writer can’t sleep, eat or function without transferring their story from their mind to paper. That is what I consider pure magic. If passion doesn’t drive you then you can’t make magic happen.

BPM: Our life experiences, challenges and success help define who we are on many levels. At what point in your career did you discover your real worth and own it? 
I started writing when I was a teenager. The turning point in my life was when my oldest sister suddenly died of a heart attack, then less than four years later my other sister was diagnosed with heart failure. I became determined to see all of my dreams come true. No matter what, I want to see my book in the hands of every reader. I’m driven by the spirit of my sister and the support of my family; with determination such as that I will be successful.

BPM: What genre is this book? Do you write all of your books in this category? Why? 
The Black Bird Detective Series is a mystery book and a psychological thriller, combined. I love to write mystery books because they keep the heart pumping with the turn of each page. 

I also wrote a non-fiction book on Autism. Autism has touched our family in such a tremendous way. Both my 10-year-old son and 10-year-old nephew are Autistic.  Through the years we have experienced many different emotions while raising Jordan. As I write to you today, the strongest emotion that I feel is pride. I am proud of our children for their ability to be independent of the label that society has placed on them.  Many times parents hear the word Autism and have no idea what it really means. The moment we received Jordan’s diagnosis our lives changed. Initially, we thought the world was closing in around us. Then, we found our strength. We realized that through telling our stories we gain strength. So we wrote, The Optimistic Autistic – Our Testimony, which is also available on Amazon.com.

BPM: Do you set out to educate or inspire, entertain or illuminate a particular subject? 
I set out to entertain my readers. I want readers to be entertained and while they’re being entertained, they’re learning something. I conduct a great amount of research for the developing of each book to ensure that readers learn something they never knew. I love to inspire readers to continue reading.

BPM: Do you have any advice for people seeking to publish a book? 
Believe in what you are writing. As long as you believe in your writing and the purpose for what you do, there is nothing that can stop you. You must take the first step though. If you want to write a book, start writing. Don’t put it off any longer. If you need assistance with writing or publishing your book please contact me at rcscomputerpros@gmail.com.

BPM: What should readers DO after reading this book? 
Once readers have put down Assumptions Abound, make your next purchase of Seeking Truth,  Sweet Revenge and The Butterfly: A Novel. I tell you to purchase them both, because you will not want to wait for the book to ship to find out what happens next.  The book series is so enthralling that you will not want to miss a beat.

BPM: What are your career goals as a writer? Have you accomplished most of them?
My career goals as a writer are to assist others with living out their dreams of writing a book. I have written and published over 10 books and I don’t plan on stopping. I want to show others that there is a way to get their thoughts, words or message out there and I am willing to help them.

I have accomplished many of the goals that I have set regarding my writing, but there is so much more work left to be done. I plan to turn my mystery trilogy series into a mini-series. I would love to see Raven on the big screen.

Website:  http://www.blackbirddetectiveseries.com
Instagram: sageauthorsitall;   Facebook: Sage

Check out Books by Sage

The Optimistic Autistic: Our Testimony by Sage (Non-fiction)
http://www.amazon.com/Optimistic-Autistic-Our-Testimony/dp/1480108782

Assumptions Abound Available on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Assumptions-Abound-Black-Bird-Detective-ebook/dp/B00642W77M

Seeking Truth Available on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Seeking-Truth-Black-Detective-Mystery-ebook/dp/B008D2ZARA

Sweet Revenge Available on Amazon: 
http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Revenge-Sage-ebook/dp/B012P17C1Q

The Butterfly: A Novel Available on Amazon: 
http://www.amazon.com/Sage/e/B01CC290ZE

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Intimate Conversation with Patricia A. Saunders

Intimate Conversation with Patricia A. Saunders

Self-published award winning author, Patricia A. Saunders was born and raised in Connecticut before relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area nearly 20 years ago. She received her Master’s in Management from the University of Phoenix in 2011. After the passing of her mother who had Alzheimer’s, Patricia decided that all the words that she kept to herself were to be released.

In March of 2016 she released her fourth book This Too Shall Pass, this book of poetry touches on the subject of suicide, death, love and faith. Her work has been featured on In the Company of Poet, Women Owned Business Club Magazine, and Coach Deb Bailey Secret of Success Talk Radio. She performs locally at spoken word events and Capital Jazz SuperCruise Open Mic with Grammy Award Winner Eric Roberson. Saunders is a monthly blogger to Blessed & Curvy http://blessedpoetpat.blogspot.com

Ms. Saunders recently was one contributing writer of 300 women across the world for Sister with Ink Voices (Hill-Dudley, 2013) She works as a supervisor for a corporate financial organization. In her spare time, Patricia enjoys writing poetry, traveling, spending time with family and wine tasting.  Her books are available at your local book retailers and at http://www.patriciaasaunders.com, http://www.amazon.com and http://www.barnesandnoble.com

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? 
The book was written after going through the storms and realizing I made it. I had to appreciate everything that I went through to see the blessing. Is this book available on Nook and Kindle? It is available on both.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. 
The book is of poetry that covers my personal experience, anything that impacted me such as our young black men being slain and other people stories shared. What makes each one so special? As a reader you can relate to the experiences because it touches the heart, spirit, and makes you reflect.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? 
My mother was an ordained minister who had Alzheimer’s and seeing her decline quickly made me what to have a legacy to leave behind. My words. Why now? If I inherit the disease I want to get all the words out now before I can’t.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Remembering experiences of my youth when both parents were living.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? 
It comes from life. If I am happy, sad, grieving, and seeing something in the news I have to express it. Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? No Why? Poetry

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? 
I touch on a subject that people don’t want to discuss. Suicide. If so, discuss them. I was seeing in the media people who you thought had it all committing suicide, I knew for myself after my mother passed I felt that my world was turned upside down and I was losing everything. I wanted to get in the ground and go with her.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, spiritual practice or journey? 
I was self-employed, making six figured, living in a gated community. I was a happy. The rug got pulled from under my feet and I was lost. On the brink of being homeless and offered to stay at a shelter. It drew me closer to my faith, I was blessed with people in my life to pour into me positive mantras, and I started my second chance. I went back to school and received my Master’s degree. There are people out there who can relate to my journey.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
I learned that I am stronger than I thought. That there may be dark days but the sun is going to shine.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book? 
There are my Saturday morning hair salon divas who share stories with me about love, how to deal with challenges, and more. My friends share with me about being single, over 50 and the struggles we go through.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
I feel this book is a testament for those who are going through any of life’s challenges to know you can come through. I wanted to pay homage to three women who sent me separate notes all saying This Too Shall Pass! I have been good reviews from those reading it. I feel if I touch one person than my vision has met its goal.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present? 
I have written a book a year except in 2014 but that’s because I was writing two books at once. Now for 2017 the next book I have writing about love so for those on the journey with me maybe it’s knocking at the door!

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
http://www.patriciaasaunders.com
http://www.facebook.com/blessedpoetpat
http://www.instagram.com/blessedpoetpat
http://www.pinterest.com/blessedpoetpat
http://www.twitter.com/blessedpoetpat
http://blessedpoetpat.blogspot.com

 

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Intimate Conversation with Kristina Smith

Intimate Conversation with Kristina Smith

Kristina Smith has been writing since she could hold a pencil. She has a Bachelor’s in English Literature from the University of Houston-Downtown and a Master’s Degree from Walden University. She lives in Houston, TX where she teaches children to strive for excellence, and foster a love for creativity. When not writing or teaching, she spends her free time with family, friends, and nature, as well as traveling around the world exploring new cultures. Her love of music and quirky sense of humor is prevalent throughout her debut novel: Caught Up.

She describes Caught Up as more of a journey than a novel, a story where the characters become part of your life and you can’t help but to fall in love with them. There are life lessons of love, forgiveness, support, and faith sprinkled throughout, but mostly the book is just what it should be; something to get lost inside of. It’s the book you read by the pool, on the beach, curled up on the couch under your favorite blanket. With everything moving at such a fast pace these days, it’s good practice to take a break and let your soul be entertained by characters that become family!

BPM: When did you first get the inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing?
My third grade teacher used to make us use our spelling words in a story and when she wasn’t correcting my behavior, she would encourage my writing. I figured out that writing was not only fun for me, but a way to channel my energy, deal with issues, and make real life more exciting and at times, livable.

BPM: Tell us about your passion for writing. What drives you?
My passion for writing comes from blasting real life situation into entertaining stories, sometimes writing people as I see their alter egos or what they might do when put in tight situations. The passion is in pouring your mind out on paper and what drives me is seeing the reader feel all of the emotions that they get out of each character; be it laughing until your side hurts, tearing up because they have been through something similar, getting heated by a love scene, or connecting with a character because they see some of themselves or know someone like them.

BPM: Can you share a little of your book with us and introduce the book and characters?
The story is built around the relationship of four women who have grown up together since childhood and how life and real world challenges push in to threaten not only their individual sanities, but their friendships with each other. Kennedy is supposed to be written as the Alpha female/mother hen of the group, but finds out that she needs the rest of them to keep her together. Michalah is Kennedy’s baby sister who does and says what she wants, and is more than protective of her sister. Tia and Jordan are friends with both women and while they don’t admit it, look to Kennedy for guidance and sometimes approval. 

All four of them have voices in the book as well as the two husbands; Preston with Kennedy, and Maxwell with Jordan. While Preston seems to be lost without Kennedy, his best friend Maxwell is seemingly the perfect catch. Though each make mistakes, they all mean well and will have to depend on God and each other for what is coming for them.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing this book?
I learned a lot about myself through each character, and more so that no matter who I thought each character should have been; they all took on their own persona and sort of told me what to write about them. I learned that I am more sensitive than I thought I was to certain human conditions. Also Kennedy’s character became more of a problem for me to write because her experiences hit close to home on some levels in my life, even now.

BPM: Are there any scenes borrowed from your world or your experiences?
All four women are loosely based off of myself, my sister, and two of my friends. Preston is based on a mistake that Thank God I did not make (yes I am laughing here), and Maxwell is just the guy that I mashed together from the conversations of what my friends considered “The One”. The situations they are put in are fictional (mostly), but the way each character would have handled the circumstance is maybe spot on? There are some surprise supporting characters.

BPM: What advice would you give your younger self?
I would go back and tell her about what is going on in my life now and remind her to hold on to that childlike faith that I had as a young girl who believed that anything is possible with God, belief, prayer, and hard work. I would also tell her to learn how to be still sometimes and watch the wonders of faith at work and be thankful for everything; the lessons and the blessings! I would tell her to enjoy life, stay her eccentric self and start traveling a lot earlier, and keep leaping! My mom actually thought that I was going to end up living in the rainforest!

BPM: What was your primary quest in publishing this book? Why now?
This book sat on the shelf for years as a passion project. I let a few friends read it and after every chapter made my sister listen to me think out loud about it; all agreed that it was something that needed to be published. After rereading this story and my other writings I began to see myself as a writer and one day a published writer. A few years later I became friends with an individual who had a drive for their dream that I recognized in my old self and took the leap to have it publish and ended up doing it myself. Funny how people come into your life and inspire just by being themselves for that one moment. (This will one day be another book)

BPM: What are a few things different about your book?
There are two key differences I feel that makes this story different. The first is that I didn’t write it in any particular genre style, which becomes difficult when categorizing, because it has all the elements that I like to read. There are parts that are romantic, hilarious, action packed, heartwarming and heartbreaking, and a bit of suspense. The only theme that carries throughout the story is love and what it makes us humans do.

The second difference is what I consider my writing soundtrack. For each section when a new character is about to speak, you’ll notice a song at the beginning. Sometimes it sets up the section, and sometimes it is what I was feeling at the moment I was writing. Music (listening) is a huge part of me when I write and the songs are multi genre as well.

Order Caught Up by Kristina Smith 
Available on BN, iBooks and Amazon
314 Pages > Kindle eBook > Romance
Link: https://amzn.com/B00R1PINS8  

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Intimate Conversation with D. Michele Jackson

Intimate Conversation with D. Michele Jackson

Donna M. Jackson is an African-American woman, a Philadelphia native, Tuskegee University alumna, and a Registered Nurse. Writing as D. Michele Jackson, she now adds writer, published, politically active nurse to her accolades. Her sociology studies at Tuskegee University and twenty-year nursing career enabled Donna to be prepared when the opportunity of Legal Nurse Consultant availed itself as she represented herself Pro Se in court. That experience allowed Donna to draft briefs during a historical time affording her a voice advocating for health. Donna submitted argument to Congress supporting amending the Nineteenth Amendment. Mission is to encourage, educate, and empower.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work?  
People who know me will always have a story of me singing in some off beat. I finally hit the perfect note with “JOY”. It is the story of a woman’s divorce experience that afforded her a voice for wellness.

As a defendant representing herself Pro Se, the main character finds herself presenting argument explaining why she should not become homeless post-divorce. Scheduled to be heard last by the presiding judge allowed the defendant to use her nursing assessment skills as she listened to a divorce case. Honing in on health after hearing the judge’s verdict, the defendant was able to make a nursing diagnosis. The judicial system dropped the gavel against well-being, and it becomes the defendants quest to fight not only for herself, but an ailing nation as well. The book is available on Nook and Kindle.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
The main character is the defendant. She takes us on a journey of the men she dated prior to marriage, and how each of the relationships offered facts for consideration in legal briefs forwarded to the Supreme Court of the state of origin, which led to the United States Supreme Court. It is the man she’s divorcing that allows a platform writing as a Legal Nurse Consultant. In hindsight, after failed relationships, the other characters enabled the defendant to form opinions on health. The once defendant, final brief is to Congress presenting argument supporting amending the Nineteenth Amendment. The experience could be considered the epitome of taking lemons and making lemon aid.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
The story started with me writing what I thought would be a good and entertaining read. Twice, I understood God to say, “That’s not the story.” I stopped writing. When I decided to begin writing again (after divorcing), the story had written itself. Now, that’s God!

Inspiration to me is always my Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. The women who spoke into my spirit. The smirk on the man I divorced face at my most vulnerable point in life. My battered heart. The possibilities that await as a result of sharing my story. The book was written at the perfect time as history is on my side.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
People often remember me as always wanting to be a nurse. What many don’t know, my motivation to go to nursing school was to have a career that would offer me a salary I could live off working part-time while attending law school. Later in my career I learned about Legal Nurse Consultants. The older I became, I had a peculiar interest in law. As difficult the journey has been, I find pleasure in the fact “JOY” took me to the halls of justice as a self-taught consultant practicing Constitutional Law.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven?  
“Amazing Grace: A Tribute to You, The Story of Us” is the first book of a trilogy. “JOY: Jesus on You” is the second book. Both “Amazing Grace” and “JOY” were divinely inspired. “Amazing Grace” is an introduction of me written in a memoir. I would have to say it is character driven. My second book comes across as plot-driven.

 “JOY” is the mark I hope to leave on society.  “JOY” is an extension of “Amazing Grace” in both stories you see a woman of faith. In “Amazing Grace” the woman is trying to find her way to proper positioning before God. In “JOY” the woman is being used by God to fulfill His plan and purpose in her life. Both are stories of change offering hope and liberation.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
As taught as a student attending Drexel University, School of Nursing, I presented to Congress as a politically active nurse advocating for health. I wrote to the 113th Congress, submitting bipartisan opportunity to holistically reform health and promote preventative care for: women, children, men, elderly, gay, poor, and rich. Globally, women are not progressing socially and economically as men. That fact is reflected in my own profession. “Men are more likely to be found in highly-paid nursing occupations. Among men and women in the same nursing occupations, men out earn women.” Retrieved January 28, 2016: http://blogs.census.gov/2013/02/25/men-in-nursing-occupations 
I advocated for health from every perspective impeding well-being.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
Currently I am staying with a friend and her family. I wrote the briefs from the homes of people in multiple states. Since divorce, my health suffered as a result of working understaffed as a nurse. Currently, my position has caused a reinjure. The home that I won fairly and was displaced from was my home office as well. I was working on a start-up business promoting health.

Prior to marriage, I was talking to my first boyfriend as he gave advice regarding my consideration of getting a second job. He advised, the answer is not getting a second job. You need to find one good job paying adequately. I divorced a man who suggested I should get a second job. My father concurred with the first advice received. The man I divorced signed papers allowing the business. I presented the document to the judge as one of my exhibits. He documented the proof submitted as “voluminous”.

I’m very humbled when it comes to my education, and my memoir explains why. My personality is one that tucks my intelligence away, and I prefer to exhibit my fun and loving characteristics when interacting with people. However, after being grossly disrespected through the divorce process, I had no problem with reaching into my pocket of knowledge, combined with endowed wisdom from God and show the dishonest rendering that God will use an unknown from the hood to address injustices.

I am grateful for my relationship with God. Without the Lord on my side, I would have crumbled and died.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I had to consider how strategic I was in approaching marriage. I asked what I thought to be all the right questions. Important to me was knowing if he was a believer of the resurrection of Christ. I was honest with who I was as a person, and that included the baggage I carried; my goals, ambitions, and desires as an individual and a wife. Although at this point, I only remember my discussions of me as an individual. I think that is because I never had a realistic opportunity of being a wife with the man I divorced, and unfortunately I learned that fact after becoming married.

My time as a single woman again has broadened my views on matrimony. A more telling line of questioning would have been related to can God trust you with my heart. Are you the man God has sent to relive me of the turmoil that lies within? Do you understand the importance of relationship with God and the role it plays as a husband who can cover his wife in prayer allowing her to become the help meet God created? Are you committed to the vows? I believe had these points been addressed, the issues that were discussed prior to marriage would have proven insignificant because we would have truly been on one accord. Subtly, I had been groomed for marriage my entire life; as excited I was about becoming engaged, I marveled at finally having my opportunity to love a man wholeheartedly as I have always known the holy state of matrimony is endearing to God.

I would have to say I learned how much God is on point in all that He does.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
The only “research” I had to do for the book was legal related. As a result, I was truly at the mercy of some people. I reached out to many people for help. I met kind and helpful law students. I met law students with sealed lips. I met honest attorneys. I met corrupt attorneys. I reached out to people who could care less. My favorite attorney was Attorney Johnny Cochran. After learning that I may have given the benefit of doubt too freely in many instances regarding attorneys, I never forwarded my request for help to his firm. I made that decision as a result of my experiences with requesting assistance. I didn’t want to risk having his name tarnished in my memory.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
First and foremost, to honor Jehovah. To offer the world His Son, Jesus – The coming Messiah. To reveal Him as a loving God that loves us all the same. Then, to honor the sacrifices of my mother. I also wanted to pay tribute to talented people, prominent figures, women who paved the way, and leaders who made a difference so that I would have opportunity to do the same for others. I’m proud to say I nailed my goals.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Inspired by the last ten years of my life which have been quite traumatic for me, I recall how this slippery slope began with me in a hospital with my mother waiting to go in the operating room. It was in that holding room I now understand that a promise for everlasting life was initiated and sealed with a kiss. I present as that vessel that offers what Abraham Maslow describes as fulfilling Self Actualization.

The Lipstick Movement is a vision of mine with a focus on upward mobility. Welcome to the Lipstick Blog Tour:  http://thelipstickmovement.com 

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Website: http://www.dmichelejackson.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DMicheleJackson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmichelejackson
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chimingforchange
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/DMicheleJackson

 

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Intimate Conversation with Nigeria Lockley

Intimate Conversation with Nigeria Lockley

Nigeria Lockley possesses two master’s degrees, one in English secondary education, which she utilizes as an educator with the New York City Department of Education. Nigeria’s debut novel, Born at Dawn received the 2015 Phillis Wheatley Award for First Fiction. After the success of her novels Nigeria is committed to pushing women to pursue their passion, walk in their purpose, and live in prosperity. Nigeria serves as the deaconess and clerk for her spiritual home, King of Kings and Lord of Lords Church of God. She is a New York native who resides in Harlem with her husband and two daughters. Visit her website at: http://www.nigerialockley.com

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work?
Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion is a mixture of commentary and prayers for creative Christians and Entrepreneurs to connect with God and deal with some of the issues they’ll encounter as they on their journey to pursue their passion. Is this book available on Nook and Kindle? Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion is available on Gumroad a platform for independent artists, authors, and entrepreneurs to sell their products and Amazon. It will be available in Barnes and Noble and other retailers soon.

Save $2 on all orders for the paperback at: https://gumroad.com/l/PYPGF 
Use code: passion – to receive the discounted price at Gumroad.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
When you begin to chase your dreams there are so many people who ask you questions about what you’re doing and when I originally thought about writing this book the plan was to answer those questions in Pursuing
Your Passion in a Godly Fashion, but then things became really challenging for me. I had to deal with business stuff, my husband didn’t understand what I was doing, and I had to keep the faith at the same time. That was how Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion became this book of prayers.

BPM: How do you deal with balancing faith, family and business? Do you have any tips for us?
Journaling helped me pull it together and write Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion. Keep God at the helm, don’t neglect yourself or your family. Learn to trust God that it will all come together. He built the whole world one day at a time and that’s how we have to build our businesses.

BPM: This is your first non-fiction book. Was it difficult to write?
Yes!! I was so all over the place at first trying to figure out what I was doing. However, once I surrendered and said “I want to do this Lord, but I don’t know what I am doing.” He just opened it up to me. The most difficult thing to overcome was that feeling of not being qualified. But when once I realized that God is the qualifier…it was on and crackin’.

BPM: Is writing easy for you? Do you feel lonely being a writer?
Writing is easy. Editing is the hard part for me. I know plenty of authors who love the editing process, but it makes me want to pull my nails out. No, I don’t feel lonely as a writer. The Lord has blessed me to connect with some of the best in the business and they take care of me.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Writing the prayers was the most enjoyable part of writing Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion. I wanted to improve my prayer life and this book definitely pushed me closer to God and improved my prayer life.

BPM: How long did it take you to complete Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion?
It took me about five months to finish Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion.

BPM: Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?
Don’t write the story or book that you believe is going to sell; write the story that you want to tell. Do not force yourself to fit into a box or follow prescribed formulas just to make it.

BPM: What period of your life do you find you write about most often?
I’ve written my whole entire life. The only period of my life where I wasn’t writing was when I gave my life to Christ and I was trying to figure out what God wanted me to do.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, spiritual practice or journey?
Throughout Pursuing My Passion in a Godly Fashion, I discuss learning how to do business God’s way and not prescribe to the worldly ideas about different issues like purpose, competition, and finance.  I went through something in every chapter in order to write those chapters, right down to having no money in the bank and having to believe that God could resuscitate my business.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I learned that I’m more resilient than I thought. Between dealing with marital issues while getting this book done and holding onto my faith I made it on to the other side of this project.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book? Do you feel you achieved them?
My intention and my goal for Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion is to help support creative Christians and entrepreneurs get into position to prosper by using prayer and biblical principles as their guide.

BPM: What does literary success look like to you?
Literary success for me looks like a catalog of books that create and effect change in people’s lives, encourage growth, edify readers, and are a chain or link in the spreading of the gospel of reconciliation of men back to Christ.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
In terms of business I’m working on content for my writing and marketing coaching program the Publishing Pow-Wow which is becoming a digital course in 2017 as well as content for the Position Yourself to Prosper
Program–a holistic approach to Pursuing Your Passion in a Godly Fashion. In the literary sector I’m working on pumping out my next release Children of God, a stand alone novel.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Readers can discover more about me by visiting my website, http://www.nigerialockley.com and they can connect with me on social media at some of my favorite hangout spots:  Instagram @NewNigeria, Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/authorNigeriaLockley, and Twitter: @NewNigeria. My book is listed on Amazon: http://bit.ly/PursuingYPGF

 

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Intimate Conversation with Lynn Emery

Intimate Conversation with Lynn Emery

Lynn is the author of sixteen romantic suspense and mystery novels. A native of Louisiana, most of her books are set in her home state. Mix knowledge of voodoo, Louisiana politics and forensic social work, and you get a snapshot of author Lynn Emery. 

NIGHT MAGIC was recognized for Excellence in Romance Fiction by Romantic Times Magazine. Her novel AFTER ALL was adapted for a television movie by Black Entertainment Television (BET) in 2000.  Lynn has been nominated several times for awards, and in 2006 won three Emma Awards for Kiss Lonely Goodbye as part of the Romance Slam Jam conference. Her latest novels are

A Darker Shade of Midnight, a paranormal murder mystery, and Best Enemies, a cozy mystery. Lynn’s recent titles include murder mysteries set in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana featuring a Creole psychic and a Cajun deputy. The titles in this series are: A Darker Shade of Midnight (#1), Between Dusk and Dawn (#2), and Only By Moonlight (#3). Into The Mist (#4) continues the harrowing case files of LaShaun Rousselle and Deputy Chase Broussard. Into the Mist will be released on October 1, 2016.

BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing? 
I read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd when I was ten years old. I already loved reading, but that book with its twist at the end did it. I closed the book and decided I wanted to write mysteries. I didn’t even know who Agatha Christie was, or that she was a white Englishwoman who was already dead by then. I didn’t think about being a poor little black girl living in the south who couldn’t even get to a library. I didn’t consult anybody, which meant no one told me my aspiration was outlandish and impossible. I simply said, “I’m going to write a murder mystery. Life happened. High school, college and my entrance to the adult world of working nine to five. Yet twenty years later I went back to my dream and started writing again.

BPM: How did you initially break into the publishing industry? Did you ever self-publish? 
I attended a writer’s conference within driving distance of my hometown. I took a fellow author’s advice to attend writing events where editors and agents would be presenters and taking appointments. The advice I didn’t take was to schedule an appointment with them, a mistake that almost cost me dearly. You see Monica Harris, the founding editor of Arabesque, was there. But I lacked confidence because I hadn’t finished my first book. I was told more than once not to expect to sell that first book. I also was told editors don’t consider, much less buy, unfinished books, certainly not from first time authors.

Another published author who belonged to my RWA chapter was horrified when I told her I hadn’t scheduled to meet with Monica. I was literally the only writer of color at this conference, and Monica was hungry for submissions. A young editor, Monica had been only recently hired by Kensington Publishers and her big assignment was to launch the first, and at that time only, line of African-American romances. My work-in-progress was romantic suspense.

This published author pushed me, not so gently, into approaching Monica during a break between her presentations. I went to my hotel room and quickly practiced a three to five minute pitch. I sweated during her workshop, and then screwed up the guts to follow Monica and introduce myself. In the hotel lobby I breathlessly pitched my book in the five minutes she graciously allowed me. About five or six weeks later, Monica called to offer me a contract. I sold my first book, and even though Monica knew it was unfinished. Night Magic was released in 1995.

BPM: What’s the most important quality a writer should have in your opinion?
I would have to say courage, with a capital “C”. If I hadn’t pushed up my own courage, I wouldn’t have met Monica at all at that small conference. So writers should have courage, which will lead you to another capital “C” word, confidence. Courage will give you the confidence you may lack in your developing skill as a story teller and promoter of your own work. Courage will help writers overcome the tendency to stay in their isolated, insulated little worlds. When you step out of your comfort zone, you’re willing to network with and talk to other writers and publishing professionals.

BPM: Can you share a little of your current work with us? Introduce us to your book and the characters.
Into The Mist is the fourth title in the LaShaun Rousselle mystery series set in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana. LaShaun teams up with Cajun Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Chase Broussard to solve grisly killings in this lovely bayou setting. Using her psychic abilities and Chase’s crime fighting skills, they fight human and supernatural killers.

LaShaun Rousselle led a bad girl life in her teens and twenties, using the spells Monmon Odette, her beloved grandmother, taught her for all the wrong reasons. The results led to such a horrible string of events, that she left Beau Chene, Louisiana. LaShaun moved to Los Angeles with the thought that she would never return to Louisiana, much less Beau Chene. The series opens with her arriving back because of Monmon Odette, and over the course of the first three books she builds a life that she didn’t expect to have at all, including or especially in Beau Chene.

Into The Mist opens with LaShaun being drawn into yet another of Chase’s cases, a kidnapping. As the story unfolds, the evil that that seems to have put a child’s life in danger creeps ever closer to those LaShaun loves the most. Everything LaShaun holds most dear is on the line, and she has to find answers to protect her family and the world.

BPM: Are any scenes from the book borrowed from your world or your experiences?
As a clinical social worker, I’ve been involved in child welfare cases, attended school conferences to advocate for children, and conducted abuse investigations. I also worked as a juvenile court consultant and in a psychiatric hospital. Although I do research even with my experience, a lot of the issues about children in the child welfare and special education systems come from what I’ve seen up close. The children in Into The Mist face these same challenges for a unique reason, and flaws in both systems only add to their vulnerability, as LaShaun and Chase discover.

BPM: What genre is this book? Do you write all of your books in this category? Why?
Into The Mist is a mystery with paranormal elements. I write mysteries now, though my first seven books are romantic suspense. What’s interesting is I never intended to write romance. The first writing group I found, or rather a member found me because we worked in the same building, was a local chapter of RWA (Romance Writers of America). I even told her that I wasn’t writing romance, but she said that didn’t matter. So I joined. A published author who belonged to that RWA chapter advised me to try writing romance because editors were in the market for them in a big way (this was the mid-1990s). Breaking into the mystery genre was tough, but for writers of color it was pretty much impossible back then. I felt very discouraged until she told me about romantic suspense, the subgenre I hadn’t even heard of at the time. Once I found out I could kill people, the words started flowing on my first book.

BPM: Are there any areas of your writing career that you wish you could go back and change? 
I’ve learned and been blessed to see the lesson in everything that has happened in my journey, so I can’t honestly say I’d change much. Even the bad helped make me either a better writer or better professional writer in terms of the business side of publishing. In 2000, I was blessed to have BET produce a made for television movie based on my novel After All. Holly Robinson Peete starred as Michelle Toussaint, a character I created. Seeing her on the screen saying that name gave me chills. Still I couldn’t really celebrate because BET used the old publishing contract I’d signed, and they were known at the time, to pay well below the industry standard for the movie rights. That was one bitter pill to swallow.

Even worse, I couldn’t stop them from making the movie. Thankfully the script, performance and production came out fine. The only thing I would change, if I could, was for myself and the other Arabesque authors to have more leverage, support or legal alternatives back then. Still, I had fun throwing a premier party at my house. I got to ride in a limo to BET studios twice for interviews. And it’s kind of fun to say, “My second novel was made into a movie.”

BPM: How may our readers follow you online? 
Readers are welcome to visit my website at http://www.lynnemery.com. I’d love for them to sign up for my monthly newsletter while they’re there. The newsletter includes exclusive free books and other goodies available only to subscribers, in addition to fun articles. Let’s socialize!

Connect with Lynn Emery on Social Media 
Tweet: @LynnEmeryWriter
Lynn Emery website: http://www.lynnemery.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lynn.emery.author
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lynnemerywriter
Pins: https://www.pinterest.com/lynnemery/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/lynnemery

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Intimate Conversation with Tesa Erven

Intimate Conversation with Tesa Erven

Tesa Erven was born and raised in San Francisco, California. She currently resides in New Jersey with her husband and two kids. She works as an office administrator for a global outplacement firm. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, writing and singing. The Loose End is her first published work.

BPM: Tell us about your most recent work? Is this book available on Nook and Kindle?
Tesa: My debut novel is called The Loose End. It is available on Nook and Kindle.
Renee Lawson is a young, vibrant, beautiful woman who fell in love with one of Oakland’s finest, and of all things, a married man. For her twenty-fifth birthday, he surprises her with a romantic getaway. He planned to make it a weekend she’d never forget. And indeed it was, until a few weeks later, her phone calls and text messages stopped being answered or responded to. He had gone on vacation with his family, but he’d always found time to communicate with her in the past.

Renee still confused by her lover’s disappearance, attends an event with her best friend, Sabrina. There they meet California native Bradsen Myers. A single, handsome, respected attorney and he’s definitely interested in Renee. While Bradsen feels its love at first sight, she pushes him away. After returning home from the event, desperation sets in. During her weeks of worry, Renee has a chance encounter with Bradsen. She feels an attraction but is conflicted. How can she start to build a connection with him when her secret love has vanished without a trace? Was he injured? Was he murdered? Where was he?

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special?
Tesa: Renee Lawson is a young, vibrant beautiful woman that fell in love with a married man. Kayron Hawkins is the so-called happily married man in a relationship with Renee. Sabrina Brown is Renee’s childhood best friend and roommate and she’s very opinionated. Bradsen Myers is a prominent attorney and is attracted to Renee. I enjoy developing new characters and giving them a voice because each one is uniquely written.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
Tesa: I started writing ten years ago. The experience was great because I knew it was a big accomplishment. The problem was, I tried to go the traditional publisher route and after the many rejections I gave up on the manuscript. It wasn’t until years later when my husband found it and liked what I wrote. That’s when the desire for writing returned and I decided to research self-publishing.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Tesa: For me, the easiest part about writing is when you have a muse that you can build or base a character on. My childhood best friend of 30+ years is inspiration to Sabrina’s character in my book. She happens to have those same character traits of always being there and guiding me that it just makes the story come together in a nice even flow.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why?
Tesa: My ideas are character driven. I keep a notebook with me on the go. I start a story in there before scanning it into the computer. I still have a thing for the old fashioned scratch and scribble… I write everything down on paper.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
Tesa: I write fiction for entertainment purposes. I want readers to be able to escape into my world.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
Tesa: I love writing; it gets the creative juices flowing. I love unknowingly connecting characters together. It’s a small world and I prove that in my writing style. I get the thrill of just being able to write about love, twists, and a little suspense.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
Tesa: Some of the places/establishments in my book are places that people can actually visit. I would recommend Sonoma Valley, where you can tour the Korbel winery.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
Tesa: My goal was to write a love story with romance, suspense and unexpected twists. I am so pleased with the way the story turned out that it became a series.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Tesa: My current project is titled, Bonded for Life, its book three in The Loose End Series: Coming soon.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Twitter: @TesaErven
Tesa website: http://www.tesaerven.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/authortesaerven
Amazon author page: amazon.com/author/tesaerven

 

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Intimate Conversation with Victoria A. Young

Intimate Conversation with Victoria A. Young

Winning an essay contest for Fannie Mae landed Victoria A. Young on Good Morning America, Spring 2000 under the maiden name: Victoria Martin. This brought to fruition that her writing can move people. She has written and produced three 2 hour plays and three short plays affording her the opportunity to refine her skills on Passion Whispers an Execution Book Series. She has also produced fashion shows, designed fashions, and choreographed dancing. Dancing ballet, jazz, African, and contemporary from the age of thirteen, blessed her to train God’s Mercy dancers to perform for Congressman Charlie Rangel. Her dancers were also given the opportunity to perform at all-paid-expense trips traveling out of New York State for church retreats.

BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write? 
I developed the love for the arts at the age of thirteen when I had a report due one Monday. I ran the streets with my friends disregarding report. Aware that my parents were going to scold me if I didn’t have the report completed, I stood home one Sunday ignoring all calls. And read a book in one day: Lorraine Hansberry, A Raisin in the Sun. The report took me about three hours to complete. From that point, I fell in love with poetry and how words can tell a beautiful story. Later on, I won an essay award and appeared on Good Morning America. From there, I began writing inspirational plays, combining dancing, poetry and fashion shows with a following of two hundred to seven hundred people, who are today, waiting for the next play. I’ve written three, two hour plays and three short plays.

BPM: Why do you write? 
Taking my characters through fire as they search for hope is a passion that boils my blood. I believe in writing oh my God and tainted stories, which close out with a bang, bringing a joyous spirit to the human experience with powerful messages. Life is about change. Without it, you’ll never grow. What drives me is the experiences I go through with my characters. I experience their emotions, heartbreaks, joy and full journey. It inspires me to make them struggle through hell and make it to other side of heaven. Tears actually fall from my eyes when I end the story because I know the hell I brought them through was certainly fire.

BPM: How did you initially break into the publishing industry? 
I began writing Passion Whispers an Execution as a screenplay with the name Unpredictable. As I ventured into editing, editors told me that I write like a novelist; and, to write Unpredictable as a novel, then have someone adapt it into a screenplay. Since I’m open and highly appreciate criticism, I took their advice. Scouting the options of Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing, I decided to Self-Publish until I’m acclimated with the publishing industry.

BPM: What genre is this book? 
Psychological and Action Thriller combined with Romance. I will write all my books in this genre due to the nature of my writing, always ending on an inspirational message the way I did with my plays.

BPM: Do you set out to educate, inspire, entertain or illuminate a particular subject? 
I aim to do it all. Subjects I write about are: forgiveness, trust, injustice, faith, self-esteem, cheating women and men or any subject that highlights the human experience. I use various cultures, the tainted, the unorthodox, and characters traveling through darkness in order to entertain. My plays were a mixed cast of cultures. I tend to go with the realism of our world. Real life is that way. Nor do we live in a world where perfection exists in any given country, state or neighborhood. By the time my stories end, a powerful theme explodes, resonating with various cultures.

BPM: Are any scenes from the books borrowed from your world or your experiences? 
Of course. Truth be told, working with New York City Police Department for 15 years inspired me to write about mental illness, which is the soul of Passion Whispers an Execution. I experienced Bipolar Depression and panic attacks after caring for my mom with breast cancer until God took her home. She didn’t want to die in the hospital or nursing home. My husband, son and siblings took turns caring for her at home. I went through three years of breast cancer symptoms with her. 

After her death, I began having nightmares about her bones disintegrating, waking up screaming. Due to the jealousy and the close relationship I had with my uniform bosses, my civilian supervisor discriminated against my mental illness. I filed a report with the Human Rights Division. From there, I resigned to write novels and to open my own business. Also, I grew up watching heroin addicts and wanted to use that as I thought it would be interesting since it’s trending now.

BPM: What hurdles did you have to overcome as a new author and business owner? 
I do own a business devoted to women in the line of beauty and inspiration. Trying to combine my many talents with my books became difficult. Another hurdle was I had a massive following when I wrote plays, but didn’t have the massive following with my books in the beginning, December 2014. I thought everyone liked to read. I soon found out, in many cultures, some didn’t know how to read, and others just are not readers. After a year of learning, I found out I had to find readers instead of people.

BPM: What is the most important quality a writer should have? 
Transform into each one of your characters from the beginning of a story to the end. Get your book edited. Our brain is unable to edit due to one part being creative, we won’t catch errors. And do your research. I was never addicted to drugs. I had to do plenty of research on heroin in order to bring my lead female character addiction to fruition. Reviews have been written about her because of my research. Yashani is a favorite.

BPM: How may our readers follow you online?
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VictoriaYoung58
VC Website: www.victoriayoungpassion.com 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoria.martinyoung.3
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Book-Series-625256147595222/

Order Passion Whispers an Execution: Book 1 – Tease Me!
Series: Passion Whispers An Execution
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Intimate Conversation with Lonz Cook

Intimate Conversation with Lonz Cook

From warrior to romance. Lonz Cook is a Marine Corps veteran of 20 years and the author of numerous romance novels. He’s a screen writer, an Adjunct Professor of Management, and a technology specialist.

BPM: Tell us about your most recent work? Is this book available on Nook and Kindle?
Online dating is how a large number of people find their mates these days. It’s like a phenomenon on how different things happen on a social basis. Rarely are people introduced in person or found by attending a club or function as the major means of meeting. A Cyber Affair is a story of two people who find each other online, and begin the process of dating. How they share their journey is the story.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
One thing I love about Tiffany and Manny is they are real people. You know, your neighbor, a friend of a friend, or simply a person you work with. Tiffany isn’t a beauty queen though she is attractive and Manny isn’t the typical obnoxious millionaire with a garage of boy toys to impress. These are common day to day middle-class people.

These characters have normal problems like dealing with divorce or working to recreate family connections. Tiffany is divorced and strict about her dating selection, working a real 9-5 and minding her business at exploring dating websites with a purpose.

Manny is a retired Navy Chief Petty Officer, rebuilding a relationship with his daughter and going through career withdrawals while defining his future. He’s the reflection of a high intense career to the mundane factory day to day job.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
Online dating is a real situation where people are taking a chance with cyber space reality. I spoke to a number of people who experienced the good, bad, and ugly with online dating. The inspiration came as I heard stories of success and wondered how they arrived to make all the decisions to become united with a new mate.

When I explored online dating, words simply jumped onto the page and before long there was a story worth telling. Online dating is relevant more so than attending a jazz festival in Spring. It’s the way of change and since so many are personally involved, it captures a part of our social behavior.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Showing the relevance of online interactions was one of the most enjoyable things I created with this book. Social media is our major means of maintaining relationships or creating friendships and opportunities for love. In the process of staying connected, I too ventured with curiosity onto dating sites, simply to answer a lot of questions with my friends and provide accuracy in writing this novel. What I have learned online is amazing and having experienced the multitude of behaviors ranging from abnormal to shocking was eye opening. And I mean shocking!!! I had to share the extremes.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why?
I get ideas from observing people and their behavior. Or I get ideas from a conversation where a situation portrays the best scenario for a good realistic story. You know, like mother-daughter relationships where there is a hate-love vibe between them. Or how love prevails after years of separation because of distance or illness. Or how a married couple rarely converses at dinner in a restaurant and have levels of contentment ooze through their body language. These concepts are character driven because there’s a lot of stories based on behaviors and my mind to create unique situations. What if scenarios that seem like reality.

There are times I create a plot simply to make the characters come alive. I do this because it’s about behavior in situations. I love to write common behavior where they address issues based on reality, especially where the heart is concerned.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
In this particular novel, A Cyber Affair, I’d say yes to under-represented groups. We, as a people, aren’t aware of the hardships a military person endures with family. The servicemen and women often fail at marriage and parenting because of deployments or operational commitments. These conversations aren’t common to the general public. What most see on the surface is the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the challenges servicemen face between career and family.

Second I’d say under-represented are the military kids who deal with battling parents. Or should I say the child who loves both parents but caught in the middle? In this novel, you’ll find Suzie, Manny’s daughter doing her best to support her father and enjoy their relationship, in spite of mom.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, spiritual practice or journey?
Since I’m a romance writer, every page is part of me in a sense. I practice what I write to ensure the story has a realistic accuracy that pulls readers into scenes. I travel to various locations to give readers the feeling of being in the room or venue because I describe the environment well enough for the imagery to match.

Being a retired Marine, I saw the deployment cringe where marriages fought a good fight but didn’t have the endurance to win. I write about behavior and since I’m observant on all levels, I tend to keep the journey realistic. I’m a writer and writing is my first love and food for my spirit.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
The education about online dating is amazing. I had heard of the term Catfish but never really understood it’s meaning. But with the depth of deception a number of people doing, it’s pretty concerning. This is where I had learned that a lot of people are not being themselves. And it’s both genders.

Second, I used a different technique while maintaining my voice. I typically have a lot of things moving outside of the antagonist and protagonist. But this time, I wrote with minimal secondary stories. I was more specific to the two major characters’ views.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
This is a difficult question but I’ll do my best to answer without embarrassing a new friend or contact.

I talked to a friend who met her lover online and when they finally met in person she ran. I mean physically ran because through all of the online video chats, she never saw his height. His being tall turned her off. In her words, she had perceptions of size being a serious matter and it scared the life out of her.

I talked to another lady who got engaged over the internet. I mean literally accepted the commitment. I asked her how and she answered that the connection between them was amazing. She never saw him, outside of pictures, no video calls, no cell phone calls, they simply shared hours of chatting online. She took this engagement very seriously and before she sent thousands of dollars, she asked someone to validate his story. She had a divine intervention because she found out the true meaning of a catfish first hand. Her story was amazing at how she kept accepting excuses based on her need. A dangerously developed behavior for some women.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book? How well do you feel you achieved them? 
Since A Cyber Affair is relevant to current dating, and the way our social changes have been modified in finding a mate, I expect this novel to make a difference. I want people to pay attention to prospects with online dating. My expectation is this book aids in showing how two people can meet and date while being entertainment and become an enjoyable conversation piece. Will it become a bestseller? I can’t honestly say it will, however, it’s always a dream to have one.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
A Cyber Affair has a back story character that took a life of its own. I’m currently working on a story titled, A Loss Too Great, which is a spinoff.  Also, I’m editing the sequel to When Love Evolves, one of the Sisters and Romance box sets. This should be out either in the fall or early winter of 2017.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Find me at http://www.LonzCook.net, WarriortoRomance on Facebook, Lonzcook on Twitter, Lonzcook on WordPress, Lonzcook on Periscope and Lonzcook on Pinterest and Instagram.

Website: http://www.lonzcook.net
Instagram: lonzcook
Twitter: @lonzcook
FB: https://www.facebook.com/WarriortoRomance

Purchase A Cyber Affair by Lonz Cook
Contemporary Romance
https://www.amazon.com/Cyber-Affair-Lonz-Cook/dp/1943904030/

 

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Intimate Conversation with Dr. Nat’e Guyton

Intimate Conversation with Dr. Nat’e Guyton

Dr. Nat’e Guyton is the CEO of SNG Enterprises, LLC, and Professor at Walden University. She is a dynamic and compelling keynote speaker, entrepreneur, author, real estate investor, registered nurse, advocate, mentor, and advisor on leadership, mentorship, trust, and high performance. Nat’e has won numerous awards, including the John L. Geoghehan Leadership Award. Guyton holds a Doctorate in Management, a Master’s degree in Nursing Administration, and a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, and well as several leadership and clinical certifications. She resides in Delaware with her husband and two children.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Is this book available on Nook and Kindle?
NG: Transformational Innovation, which will be available on my website, is a daily devotional designed to guide readers on a transformative journey that will help them achieve their goals, and realize their dreams. I used the following 10 practical steps in my life and experienced personal transformation, I experienced a new me:
• Alter Your Perceptions
• Eliminate Clutter
• Remove Constraints
• Don’t Be Traceable
• Shatter The Rules
• Build Partnerships
• Kick Down The Gates
• Visionary Versus Systems Thinking
• Show Gratitude
• Let Go and Let God

“In order to achieve your goals and dreams you must be prepared to transform and realize the new You!”-Nat’e Guyton

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
NG: The main character is the reader. The readers will get what they expect out of the book. If the readers use the book as a daily devotional, or a daily journal, they will experience the transformation they seek. The other characters used in the book are various familiar names and people we know from the bible, as well as my personal stories and experiences with each practical step.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
NG: I have literally been through each of the steps outlined in the book, and not only did I survive my transformation,
I am thriving. I have been blessed with various experiences and successes in my life, and it is my duty of service to share my story with others. I am driven by sharing a life of infinite possibilities and inspiring the next generation of dreamers. If I get that right, then, I’ve done my job.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
NG: I enjoyed the transparency, the honesty, and the experiences I went through while writing the book. The book comes from a place of authenticity, and we don’t see that too much anymore.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Why?
NG: My book ideas come from my personal life experiences. My destiny is to go through the experiences and write what I know about.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
NG: My book represents the transformation for women, its speaks to the inner struggle we go through in our life’s journey.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
NG: My book provides the reader with real-life experiences aligned with my educational journey, and real estate investing business. I take a spiritual and personal approach to guide the reader on a transformative journey that will help them achieve their goals, and realize their dreams. Although we are all going through something different, may be at different stages in life, and have different dreams and aspirations, the 10 practical steps are transferable in every situation. The goal is to guide the reader through their journey, it’s like having your own personal transformation coach.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
NG: Writing the book was a transformational innovation, and the new me is an Author. I didn’t think I had it in me, to be honest, and now that it’s complete I feel great…I am an Author now. I had to use each and every step outlined in the book to complete this project.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
NG: In writing and marketing this book, I met great people in the industry that was willing to help me, to partner with me, and take my project to the next level. They are now friends for life. If I didn’t write the book I would not have been exposed to new people in new industries, I would have stayed in my box.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
NG: My goals are to help people get through the struggle and achieve their dreams. The book is just the tip of the iceberg, it’s in introduction. I am introducing myself to the readers and they will be introducing themselves to me. This book is the start of a relationship among the readers and myself….I have more work to do, and there will be two more books in this transformational innovation trilogy.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
NG: The Transformational Innovation Series is part of a trilogy. I am working on the next two books now, they will be coming out soon. Book #2 is titled: Transformational Innovation: The Road to Educational Success, and book #3 is titled: Transformational Innovation: Climbing the Corporate Ladder.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work?  
NG: I can be found on:
Twitter: @DrGuyton
Instagram: drguyton10
FaceBook: Nat’e Guyton
Email: Tayguyton@gmail.com
Website: http://10-principles.com

 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Elle Wright

Intimate Conversation with Elle Wright

Born and raised in Southeast Michigan near Ann Arbor, Elle learned the importance of reading from her mother. It was also her mother who, later on in her life, gave Elle her first romance novel: Indigo by Beverly Jenkins. From that moment on, Elle became a fan of Ms. Jenkins for life and a lover of all things romance. An old journal she wrote back in college became her first book (which she still wants to publish one day).

BPM: How did you get to be where you are in your life today? Who or what motivated you?
I would not be where I am today without God. Without Him, I’d be nothing. My mother used to sing a song when I was little that says “Without Him, my life would be drifting like a ship without a sail.”

I’m where I am as a writer because of hours spent daydreaming, hard work, and perseverance. I’ve always wanted to do more, be more. My mother inspired me to read. My children inspire me to create, to follow my dreams. How can I instill in them follow their dreams if I don’t lead by example?

BPM: Who does your body of literary work speak to? Do you consider authors as role models?
I think my body of literary work speaks to lovers of romance and drama! I love to write love stories and delve into how people find love, sustain it. There are so many authors that I consider role models; authors who are doing their thing in this genre and others. I’m always amazed and very grateful for the many authors who’ve given awesome advice, shared my book, and read my work.  It’s been a wonderful experience meeting authors I’ve read and getting a chance to pick their brains or just chat with them.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
Her Kind of Man is book 3 in my Edge of Scandal Series. When I started the series, I wanted to explore the dynamics of a close-knit group of friends. There is a theme in each of the books. This book delves into unrequited love. There is something about Allina and Kent that is pure magic. There’s an innocence to their relationship. I had a good time heating them up, but I especially loved the bonding scenes. They had an ease and genuine affection for each other that made me smile. I love it!

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Actually, the best part of writing this book was that was so challenging. I really had to push myself with this one. There are disturbing moments in the book, but mostly, it’s a journey to happiness. Allina and Kent had to climb out of that box they put themselves in; in their careers and in their relationship with each other.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why?
Usually, my book ideas come from weird questions posed by friends or family. The Forbidden Man came about when a friend asked the simple question, “What would happen if a woman was torn between two brothers?” From there, it became my goal to write a book where the reader would sympathize and even root for the forbidden relationship.

Character-driven. I want my characters to make sense, so I spend a lot of time with characterization. My cousin always tells me “if it doesn’t make sense, don’t do it.” For example, Allina was a runaway bride. She left her wedding, her parents, and her groom behind because she felt like she was in danger. She was dealing with so much in the present that was bringing up demons from her past. So, I had to slow the romance part down because it didn’t make sense for her character to rush it. Also, Kent was so noble, he would have never taken advantage of her.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Is this book available on Nook and Kindle?
Engaged to a prominent preacher, Allina Parker is the envy of Cleveland. But instead of walking down the aisle, she’s running out the door. After her groom-to-be reveals his true nature, she flees to Michigan, back to Kent. Kent is the man she left behind, the one man she knew she’d always love. He is also one of her dearest friends. When she appears on his doorstep, Kent makes it his mission to protect her and finds out that there is more to her story than she’s telling him. The book is available on Nook, Kindle, iBooks, Kobo, and Google Play.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
Allina is incredibly intelligent and creative. She’s the friend that you know is going to support you through whatever while remaining calm and collected. Her dream of dreams is to design wedding gowns, but she’s left that behind to marry. Unfortunately, she didn’t realize that her Prince Charming was a sociopath. The best thing about Allina is that she surprises me. On the surface, she seems one way. But there’s so much more to her. I enjoyed figuring her out.

Kent is… loyal, dedicated, handsome, strong, protective, and funny. I absolutely loved him in all three books. He was my comic relief, but he’s also the type of friend everyone needs. He’s creative and extremely hardworking: the perfect book boyfriend.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? 
Yes! I love to write African American romance. I love writing diverse characters. It’s my reality.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, spiritual practice or journey?
Honestly, I think I was Allina. I was the good girl. I married my best friend. I’ve struggled with living up to people’s perception of me. Yep, she’s me and I am her. LOL

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
One thing I always learn when writing my books are new ways of thinking about things. Each character approaches decisions differently. Most of the time in ways I would never think of.

I’m laughing because I found out that yoga pants are apparently sexy to some men. So I put that in the book. I also had to learn about different sketchpad apps for a particular scene, which was neat.

I’m from Michigan (GO BLUE), and part of the book takes place in Cleveland, so I got a chance to talk to a few friends who are from the Buckeye state. I learned about a few festivals and restaurants there that I’d want to visit one day.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
My goal was to write a different book. I didn’t want all the books in the series to be the same. Each couple was very different. They all had their own crosses to bear, things to overcome. I needed to do each character justice. I feel that I achieved that in this book. It’s nothing like the first two books of the series, in my opinion.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
At the moment, I’m plotting two contemporary romance series. Both feature secondary characters introduced in the series. Also, I’m plotting a romantic suspense series and a Women’s Fiction.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Website: http://www.ellewright.com
Twitter: @LWrightAuthor
Instagram: @lrwright09
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElleWrightAuthor

Purchase Her Kind of Man by Elle Wright
Series: Edge of Scandal (Book 3)
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Check out the books in the Edge of Scandal Series

Edge of Scandal Book One – The Forbidden Man (released July 28, 2015)
Tag Line: She’s walking out on her no-good fiancé… and into the arms of his brother.

Edge of Scandal Book Two – His All Night (released November 24, 2015)
Tag Line: No expectations, no commitments, no one gets hurt…or so she thought.

Order all of the books in the Edge of Scandal Series
http://www.amazon.com/Elle-Wright/e/B00VMEWB78

 

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Intimate Conversation with Sadeqa Johnson

Intimate Conversation with Sadeqa Johnson

Sadeqa Johnson is a former public relations manager who spent years working with well-known authors such as JK Rowling, Bebe Moore Campbell, Amy Tan and Bishop TD Jakes before becoming an author herself. Her debut novel, LOVE IN A CARRY-ON BAG was hailed by Ebony.com as “this summer’s hottest read.”  It was the recipient of the 2013 Phillis Wheatley award for Best Fiction and the 2012 USA Best Book award for African-American fiction. Originally from Philadelphia, she now resides in Virginia with her husband and three children. SECOND HOUSE FROM THE CORNER is her second novel.

BPM:  When did you get your first inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing?
I’m originally from Philadelphia. As a kid, I started off wanting to be an actress. When I graduated high school, I moved to New York and attended Marymount Manhattan College as a Theatre Arts major. It was as a student that I started fooling around with poetry, which turned to playwriting, screenwriting and ended up with novel writing. I landed a job working in publishing after college and it was there that I became very serious about my writing. My first novel, Love in a Carry-on Bag took me over ten years to finish. I started writing it when I was a publicity manager at G.P Putnam’s Sons.

Every day I would close my office door at four o’clock and write for the last hour of the workday. On my commute home, I edited the pages. Once I got married, I left my corporate job to write and raise my children, but still nursed a burning desire to tell stories. I wrote during naptimes, between feedings, in the midst of sleep deprivation and my kid’s ear infections. The daily pressures of caring for a young family motivated me to finish the book. I was very much like Felicia in Second House From the Corner. As much as I loved being a mother, I didn’t want that role to be my only claim. I knew that it was important for me to carve out something that was only for me, and writing novels was it. My novels are my legacy.

BPM:  What makes your writing different than others?
I’m a lover of words and keep a thick, old school thesaurus on my desk, which I use to deepen the meaning of the text. I don’t like to rush when I’m writing, and I’ll work on a paragraph for three days if it takes that long to make it sound good. Although I’m a commercial fiction writer, I work to bring poetry, beauty and music to my work. My goal is to make readers pause over a delicious sentence, giving them no choice but to read it again.

BPM:  Can you share a little of your current work with us? Introduce us to your book and the characters.
I love everything about Second House From the Corner. In the novel, Felicia Lyons, a stressed out stay-at-home mom struggles to sprint ahead of the demands of motherhood, while her husband spends long days at the office. Felicia taps, utters mantra and breathes her way through most situations but on some days, like when the children won’t stop screaming her name or arguing over toy trucks and pretzel sticks, she wonders what it would be like to get in her car and drive away.

Then one evening the telephone rings, and in a split second Felicia’s innocent fantasy becomes a hellish reality. The call pulls her back into a life she’d rather forget. Felicia hasn’t been completely honest about her upbringing, and her deception forces her return to the Philadelphia of her childhood, where she is forced to confront the family demons and long buried secrets she thought she had left behind.

BPM:  Did you learn anything personal from writing this book? 
I wrote Second House From the Corner in about a year and a half, which was much different from my ten-year haul with Love in A Carry-on Bag. I learned to outline and draft quickly, and then to just punch the story out and fix it later. There were a lot of loving hands that touched Second House From the Corner and for that I am so grateful and utterly proud of the finished product.

BPM:  What would you like to accomplish after this book is released? 
Don’t laugh, but my deepest desire is to be on the New York Times best sellers list. I have been putting that out into the Universe since day one so I know it’s going to happen. I also plan to sell the movie rights and be paid (well) to consult on set as the movie is being filmed. My children are going to love walking the red carpet. Selling the foreign rights and seeing my novel printed in several languages would also make me happy. Eventually I’d like to teach a writing group and get out on the motivational speaking circuit.

BPM:  Are any scenes from the book borrowed from your world or your experiences? 
Oh, yes. I am a mother of three children. My kids were about the age of Felicia’s when I started writing the book and a lot of her experience of feeling overwhelmed and worn out with the duties involved with caring for small children was what I felt as a young mother. I still feel it at least four times a week. She taps her way through it, I go to hot yoga, run and meditate to find my center.

BPM:  What should readers DO after reading this book? 
Tell all of their friends to buy a copy. I really believe it takes a village to make a best seller. Word of mouth is the best form of advertising so please, please tell a friend. Your review on goodreads.com and all of the retailer’s website would also be wonderfully helpful.

BPM:  What are your career goals as a writer? Have you accomplished most of them? 
Right now I really admire Attica Locke. She wrote a book called The Cutting Season that I couldn’t put down. Then one night I was watching the show Empire, and her name popped up in the credits as producer and writer. Immediately, I had goosebumps. I’m so proud of my fellow writers when they cross over and do big things. As I sat watching, I thought, could I write for television?  Mmmm, I’m just going to let that thought marinate. Hosting a show on television would also tickle my fancy.

BPM:  What have you realized about yourself since becoming a published author? 
I’ve realized that I am exactly where I am supposed to be. Every moment in my life from going to college in New York City as Theatre arts major, to my first two jobs in publishing as a publicist, to starting my own publishing house and having to do everything possible to get the word out on Love in a Carry-on Bag has led me to this moment. I’ve worked hard, I deserve to be right here and my future is even brighter. I can’t wait to see what God has in store for me.

BPM:  What are you the most thankful for now?
I’m grateful for my health and the health of my family and close friends. I enjoy waking up every morning, getting my kids off to school (most times without arguments and tears but not always), putting on a pot of coffee and going to work in my robe. God is always amazingly good to me. Oh, and I have a sexy, supportive husband to boot.

BPM:  Do you have any advice for people seeking to publish a book?
Don’t quit. Writing takes time and dedication and it is very important to be true to the craft. Take writing classes, form a writing group and read as much as you can. Give yourself time and permission to grow, and be patient with yourself. Believe in your creativity above all. Allow the magic to flow.

BPM:  What’s next?
I’m working on my third novel, And Then There Was Me. It’s about deception and betrayal. It’s scheduled to be published by Thomas Dunne Books spring of 2017 so stay tuned. And click right over to my website, www.sadeqajohnson.net and subscribe to my blog. I’ll keep the latest news listed there. I’m on all of the social media outlets so get in touch with me. I’d really love to hear from you.  

Connect with Sadeqa Johnson
http://www.sadeqajohnson.net
https://twitter.com/sadeqasays
https://instagram.com/sadeqasays
https://www.facebook.com/SadeqaJohnson 

Purchase Second House from the Corner: A Novel
iBooks:  http://smarturl.it/SHFCAWIB
Indiebound:  http://smarturl.it/SHFCAWIN
Walmart:  http://smarturl.it/SHFBAWWAL
Amazon:  http://smarturl.it/SHFCAWAM
Barnes & Noble:  http://smarturl.it/SHFCAWBN
Books-a-Million:  http://smarturl.it/SHFCAWBAM

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Intimate Conversation with Angie Ransome-Jones

Intimate Conversation with Angie Ransome-Jones

As a new author, Angie Ransome-Jones has already made her mark in the literary world since publishing in September 2015. Her self-published book entitled “Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One,” chronicles her journey or finding peace after the sudden and devastating loss of her father in 2013. Now she has made it her mission and ministry to help others suffering the loss of a loved one, by providing advice on how to prepare for the inevitable and coping in the aftermath. After undergoing what she refers to as “the process,” Angie discovered that there is much more to death than laying a person to rest and outlines in the book, practical steps to not only dealing with loss, but preparing for it financially, spiritually and emotionally.

Since its release, “Path to Peace” has received wide acclaim – Angie has been a guest on both the Good Morning Texas and Local Memphis Live morning shows. “Path to Peace” was also recognized as a Good Read by the Arkansas Times and included in its 2015 Holiday Gift Guide and was on Amazon’s bestseller’s list for several weeks in 2016. Angie was also a featured author at the 2016 National Book Club Conference (NBCC) in Atlanta.

She holds an MBA and full-time position as a Banking Vice President and Project Manager and serves as a freelance yoga instructor, and has her own non-proift 501C-3 organization (Magnifying our Mothers M.O.M.).

When not traveling across the country sharing her message, Angie is spending time with her husband and two sons.  Lastly, Angie is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Toastmasters International.

“Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One,” chronicles one daughter’s journey of finding peace after the devastating loss of her father. In the midst of grieving, Angie Ransome-Jones was suddenly faced with laying her father to rest, settling his financial affairs and reconciling her unresolved feelings over the loss of her mother. Watch as Path to Peace author Angie Ransome-Jones talks about preparing for the inevitable on WFAA- Good Morning Texas. To watch the interview replay, go here.  Death is difficult but inevitable. Path to Peace provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!  

BPM: Who is Angie Ransome-Jones?
Wow, great question! First and foremost, I am a Servant of the Lord; but I’m also a servant to those who need me. I am a mother a wife, a friend, a sister, a free spirit, a volunteer, and a yogi. I am many different things to many different people! My legal name is Angela D. Jones. I became Angie Ransome-Jones in 2015 after my Dad passed away and I published my first book, dedicated to his memory. Prior to that, only my friends and family knew and referred to me as Angie. Now, the masses know me as Angie and I’m ok with that because now I feel more free to be the same person in both worlds – personal and professional; although I still choose to keep both worlds very separate.

BPM: Have you always known you wanted to be an author? 
No, I never had great aspirations to be an author. Writing a book was on my long Bucket List; but I never imagined that my book would be centered around such circumstances and would lead to this wild, but rewarding ride that I’m now on!

BPM: What led you to write: “Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One”?
The sudden death of my father, Albert D. Ransome, in 2013 caused me to write the book not only as a therapeutic outlet and a “release” for myself; but also as a tool to educate others on the numerous things that I learned during the process of laying him to rest and settling his earthly affairs. As a bonafide “Daddy’s Girl,” my father was the closest person to me after my mom passed away, so as you can imagine, losing him so suddenly was truly devastating for me.

BPM: Why did you choose this title?
My editor and I considered a number of different titles and covers, but this one best described my journey in terms of the path that I traveled, which eventually led to an evolving peace for me. This same “peace” has allowed me to look at life very differently than I did before.

BPM: What were some of the benefits you experienced writing the book?
The book has allowed me to connect with thousands of people from all walks of life who have either had an experience similar to mine, know someone who has or are preparing themselves for the experience losing someone. It has also allowed me to travel the country speaking to and educating others on the subject and the necessity of preparing for the inevitable, which is death. The money I receive from doing what I consider to be “God’s assignment,” is just icing on the cake for me!

BPM: What were your most challenging moments writing the book?
Trying to separate my raw emotions from the facts and information that would be beneficial to readers dealing with loss. My editor revised it at least 7-8 times to ensure that it was transparent, without being too revealing in terms of my personal life.

BPM: Can you share one specific point in your book that resonated with you the most?
I think it would have to be the necessity of having what I refer to as a “Control Book.” in place. Having a Will and Life Insurance are necessary also, but just having something documented; a roadmap, if you will, for your family in case of your death, is just as critical!

BPM: Death is such a sensitive topic and is widely avoided, what are some ways survivors can effectively prepare for their own death to give their family peace when they leave this earth?
You’re absolutely right. My job is very tough in that my book is not something that all people are receptive to, because it deals with such an uncomfortable and taboo subject. But I can’t stress enough the importance of having those conversations, as difficult as they are, with your loved ones about your wishes. It should be a two-way conversation so that everyone is on the same page. And ensuring that those you entrust to carry on your legacy after you are gone are well-prepared; both directionally and financially.

BPM: What is it like to read the reviews of strangers who have read your book?
It is THE THING that keeps me going. Hearing my words repeated in context to how they affected a person’s life in terms – whether they related to it or reacted to it – is the most rewarding piece for me.

BPM: How has writing about your story impacted your life now?
I have definitely been busier than I have ever been in life, but in a great way!! I never imagined that the book would take off; let alone be a bestseller! I have been interviewed a number of times, featured in numerous magazines and recently appeared on Good Morning Texas, which was my first live TV appearance. I will appear again live on the Local Memphis Live show, which is similar to GMT. I feel blessed and honored and humbled that God has chosen me to deliver such an important message.

BPM: What advice would you give to someone who wants to write about their story?
I truly believe that everyone has a story in them; no matter if it’s a trial they’ve been through or a story of triumph or lessons learned they want to share. I used to consider myself an “accidental author” but then I stopped calling myself that because I realize that all of this was by design. God turned my pain in losing my father; actually both of my parents, into my purpose. In the words of the late, great Elie Wiesel, I encourage anyone who “survives a test, whatever it may be,” to tell his/her story because “it is his duty.”

BPM: Do you have any other organizations you are part of? If yes, please share.
Yes, I have a non-profit 501C-3 organization that myself and my Vice President Renea Mewborn started in 2010 called Magnifying our Mothers (M.O.M.). For years after my mother’s death from cancer in 2002, I struggled with Mothers Days and holidays in general; so founding M.O.M. came out of my desire to break that cycle and do something positive instead, that would not only help people who were bereaved, but also change my mindset about her death and make her very proud! M.O.M. assists the bereaved, including children who have lost one or more of their parents through the offering of donations to other local/nationwide charities, grief counseling resources, financial support (funeral expenses, etc.) and we are in the process of setting up scholarships for bereaved children under our Legacy Keeper Kids umbrella.

BPM: What else can we expect to see from you? 
Another great question! My plan is to take a break to focus on my youngest son, who will be leaving home to attend college out-of-state. However, I want to continue to be led by God and let Him continue to order my steps, whatever that may be. I do have plans; however, to publish a companion Control Book that will accompany Path to Peace, which will come out sometime in 2017.

BPM: Please tell everyone how you can be contacted to support you by purchasing your products/services, book you for their upcoming events, or partner with you in your vision.
I’m more than happy to partner with others, answer questions, come and speak, etc.! People can reach me via email at:  info@authorangiejones.com  or  through my Author Angie Jones Facebook page. 

My website is http://www.path-2-peace.com  and they can purchase copies of my book there or via Amazon.com. 

 

Thank you so much for the opportunity Ella – I love and admire you more than you know for your loving kindness and authenticity and for executing your God-given vision!

Website: http://www.path-2-peace.com
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authorARJones

 

 

 

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Path to Peace by Angie Ransome-Jones

Path to Peace  by Angie Ransome-Jones
A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One

Death is difficult but inevitable. This book provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!

“Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One,” chronicles one daughter’s journey of finding peace after the devastating loss of her father. In the midst of grieving, Angie Ransome-Jones was suddenly faced with laying her father to rest, settling his financial affairs and reconciling her unresolved feelings over the loss of her mother.

After learning what she refers to as “the process,” it’s now her mission to share practical steps to picking up the pieces and finding peace, after the loss of a loved one. In this book, Angie provides a comprehensive guide that yields advice from an attorney, financial advisor and grief counselor.

“Path to Peace” is one daughter’s story of reclaiming her life, realizing her purpose and finding inner peace along the way.

What People Are Saying About Path to Peace

Path to Peace is a wonderful book used as a source to go to time and time again if you are going through the process of grieving after losing someone. It is well researched and written, and is easy to absorb all while letting the reader take what they need at different times during the grieving process.

It does a comprehensive job of touching on the many types of loss, and offers helpful suggestions for coping and moving forward. From the moment I first started reading it, I knew the perspective is coming from well-informed person who has been through the grieving process.

I highly recommend buying it when you or someone you know is faced with the death of a loved one as it guides you forward with practical guides on what to do as well as emotional help. Give the book to someone you know who needs it. You will be able to help them when they need it most on their own time. By owning the book yourself, you will be able to understand and anticipate the needs of the people you care for who may need your help during a difficult time.  This is simply an amazing, well-written book that exceeded my expectations.

“This book is a compassionate and poignant reflection of the premise…everyone grieves differently. It is simply heart-warming!”
~Dionne Anglin, News Reporter, KDFW-TV 

This guide provides practical tools to manage the business affairs after losing a loved one.”
~Victor McGlothin, Essence Magazine Bestselling Author 

“What an incredible show of strength and courage in the middle of grief and loss…..Angie presents a very practical roadmap for all of us to follow!”
~Dr. Tracey Brown, Author/Speaker/Counselor Supervisor-Dallas ISD

Excerpt Chapter One

Until a year ago, I had always equated Election Day with colorful yard signs, cooler weather and National Angie Ransome-Jones Day, also known as my birthday. Now, I equate it to my Daddy’s passing. It was a normal day, just like any other for me. I ran my mouth with Evelyn while trying to get some semblance of work done at home. The day before, I worked an election with my good friend, Janis, like I had for the past few years and was trying to play catch up like I always do, whenever I take off from work. Coming off of a great weekend, I was on cloud 21!

Dad came down to celebrate my 44TH birthday and I basked in the possibilities of another year as Myles, my son, prepared for his first semester of college. There were so many things to be thankful for. Little did I know what was to come. If not every single day, it was at least every other day that I talked to Daddy. Usually, we had a typical 2-minute conversation. “Hey Daddy, what you doing?”

“Oh, nothing girl, just sitting here relaxing.”

Depending on whether I caught him half asleep or fully awake, the conversation could go one of a million ways. Mostly we would get off the phone immediately with a casual goodbye.

“Okay, just checking on ya. Daddy, go back to sleep.”

We often shared any number of long, drawn-out conversations on everything from gas prices to somebody on his job getting ill, or something pertaining to a distant relative I had no memory of. But on this particular day, something was different. Something was off. I tried calling him the night before while I was still at the election site, just before I knew he would be taking a nap to get ready for work at midnight. I tried again when I closed the polls about 10 or 11 p.m., on my way home, hoping to catch him fresh out the shower before he got dressed and jumped into his truck for work. Daddy had the same pattern every day. It usually started with him laying or piddling around all day until dusk, when it was time to prepare for his part-time “sleeping job” at the local bowling alley; the midnight shift. When I didn’t catch him, it wasn’t surprising. I knew for sure I’d catch him the next morning. After I failed to catch him for the umpteenth time, I did the one thing I dreaded most. Fearing a sharp reprimand, I called his job. Because I knew he hated his job and was just counting the days, even minutes, until re-retirement; I was doubtful he was still there. And, as it turned out, he wasn’t. 

Next, I did the second thing that I knew I would live to regret if he had merely overslept. I called his neighbor, Ms. Effie.  After knocking, peeking through windows, and calling his name repeatedly, Ms. Effie called back to tell me that she had no luck but thought he may have been home because she saw both cars in his garage. After what seemed like hours of Ms. Effie knocking, calling out my Dad’s name, “Al! Al!” and trying to calm me down hundreds of miles away, she decided to call for backup in the form of her daughter Erica; who I had also known for years. After a few more hours of knocking on windows, doors, and anything she could find, she called Dad’s phone repeatedly. Eventually, Erica heard his phone ring from inside the house. It was then, I knew he was gone. Daddy always carried his phone on his person, in either a pocket or on a chain attached to his hip.

The authorities wouldn’t tell me much except that he didn’t suffer. The room was left virtually undisturbed, which suggested there was not a struggle. Instead, they said he was sitting upright in a chair with his breathing machine by his bedside and appeared to have passed peacefully. He presumably had an asthma attack but the death certificate recorded it as “death by natural causes” and I’m okay with that. I had always imagined that I’d be there with him, like I was when my mother took her final breath but in this case, it wasn’t a part of God’s plan.

Step 1: Making the Call

Notification Process: The first step and one of the most difficult of the ten I will outline, is the notification process. Instead of contacting our immediate family first, I notified people I knew would kick into full gear to do some of the heavier lifting that I was neither mentally nor emotionally prepared to do yet. I recommend appointing a “go-to-man” from the outset. You will need assistance in making dreadful phone calls while navigating through what will seem to be an endless list of people to notify; otherwise known as your “Call List.”

Handle with Care: In retrospect, after helping with the deaths of close friends, an important part of the process is to “Handle with Care.” This is important for those who meant the most to your loved one and would want to hear the news directly from you. I caused irreparable damage in my neglect of a relative that was near and dear to me, and my Dad, when he heard the news of his passing via word of mouth. Remember, word of mouth travels faster than the front page news.

( Continued… )

© 2015 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Angie Ransome-Jones. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author’s written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

About the Author
Angie Ransome-Jones is a wife of 20+ years and mother of two young men, all currently residing in Texas. A banking Vice President and MBA, Angela has her own non-profit (501C-3) organization, Magnifying our Mothers (M.O.M.), which she founded in 2010, in memory of her mother, who lost her battle with cancer years earlier. In her spare time, Angela enjoys serving as a volunteer in her church and community, along with practicing and teaching yoga, and she is an active member of both Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Toastmasters International.  Wesite: http://www.path-2-peace.com

Purchase Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One
https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Guide-Managing-After-Losing/dp/0991220919

“Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One,” chronicles one daughter’s journey of finding peace after the devastating loss of her father. In the midst of grieving, Angie Ransome-Jones was suddenly faced with laying her father to rest, settling his financial affairs and reconciling her unresolved feelings over the loss of her mother.

Path to Peace author Angie Ransome-Jones talks about preparing for the inevitable on WFAA- Good Morning Texas. Watch the interview replay, go here.  Death is difficult but inevitable. Path to Peace provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!  

 

 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Leron Young

Intimate Conversation with Leron Young

Leron Young moved to Washington, DC with his mother from South Carolina when he was six years old. His mother gave him a guitar when he was eight years old and he taught himself how to play it. Later in life he met a singing group called the Unifics at Howard University and started performing with them during the late sixties and early seventies. He also played guitar with the Five Stairsteps and Luther Ingram at Stax Records.

Leron studied electronics at a vocational high school in Washington, DC and studied electrical engineering in college. He worked as an engineer in corporate America, servicing CAT scanners and MRI machines in the medical field.

After starting his own business in1989, Leron mentored young musicians for the next twenty-six years. Music is his first love, but he saw a need to encourage better health and wellness in his community. He wrote his first book, “How Is My T.E.D.D.Y. ” Asking the question “How is My Teddy”? will help readers stay focused on the important things in life. T.E.D.D.Y. Is a tool used to help develop a life of joy, good health, and well-being. The Teddified brand is catching on with people seeking a path to wholeness.

In August, 2016, a new compilation CD of Leron’s best smooth jazz, blues guitar and inspirational instrumentals was released on CD Baby. The music can be downloaded from CD Baby here: http://www.cdbaby.com/Artist/Laron. His books are listed on Amazon.

BPM: Can you share a little about your life in the music industry with us?
I started player guitar professionally with a local group called the Unifics back in the late sixties. They had two national records called “Court of Love” and “ The Beginning of my End”. I was able to perform with many artist at that time with the Unifics. Artist such as James Brown, Gladys Night and the Pips, The Delfonics, David Rufin of the Temptations, Kool and the Gang, Roberta Flack, The Stylistics, The Isley Brothers and many more. While touring with the Unifics I got to meet and became friendly with another group called “The Five Stairsteps”. I eventually became a part of their organization for a short while. They had a popular record out during that time called “Oo Child”.

Later during my career I got another opportunity to play guitar for Stax Records. I was performing with the artist name Luther Ingram who was with Stax Records. He had a hit record at that time called “If loving you is wrong, I don’t want to be right”. I’m in the movie called Watts Stax that was filmed in 1972 at the LA Stadium. I was playing guitar with Luther Ingram. Isaac Hays, The Bar Kays, The Staple Singers, The emotions, Rufus Thomas, Richard Pryor and others were in the movie.

I became dissatisfied with the traveling and the lifestyle in the entertainment field and decided to come back home to Washington DC. I wanted to raise a family and not be on the road as much. When I returned to Washington DC I recorded on an album with Chuck Brown and the Soul Searchers. Chuck and I had been friends for a while. Chucks Producer at that time was a person name James Purdie. James asked me to go in the studio with them to record the album “Bustin Loose” in which I did. After recording the album I went back in the field of Electronics. I worked as a technician, CT & MRI System Specialist in Corporate America and eventually started my own business.

BPM: Introduce us to your book. Share any pertinent details about the development of this book.
The book grew out of my wanting to change some of my habits that were not serving me well or getting me the results I wanted and needed in order to be happy and successful. I got the idea for Teddy while attending a conference in Orlando Florida. After the conference, I was in my hotel room resting, reading and reflecting. The idea came to my mind, what question could I ask myself, the answers for which would give me directions for improving my quality of life. What question could do the same for others. The acronym teddy came to mind, and the question “How is my Teddy” was born. Following the acronym Teddy, the meaning of each letter manifested. T standing for thinking, E represent eating and exercising, D stands for drinking plenty of water, D represent doing what brings you joy and Y stands you loving you.

BPM: Our life experiences, challenges and success help define who we are on a personal and professional level. At what point in your career did you discover your real worth and own it?
I discovered my real worth when I was working as a System Specialist Engineer with Corporate America. I realized then what I didn’t want any more in my life. I was thankful for the opportunity to learn CT and MRI in Corporate America, but I wanted now to apply that knowledge in my own business. I wanted to use my musical ability along with the technology that I learned in Corporate America. I felt that my calling now was to use all that I had learned up to that point.

BPM: How can one live authentic life, true to self, personally and professionally?
It starts by paying more attention to yourself. Pay attention to your thoughts and your awareness of your thoughts. Focus on what’s bringing you joy and not the things that are giving you unpleasant emotions. Start trusting in God and yourself. Realize what your gifts are and start using and develop them to a higher level. Everyone have a book within them. Find that book that is within and write it. It will benefit the writer and possibly many others. You will become authentic.

BPM: Do does your book impact black men and people with chronic illnesses?
Many of my Black brothers have low self-esteem and we use food as one of the things to satisfy the craving that we have to empower ourselves. Unfortunately the food is doing more damage than it is helping us. We are eating the wrong kinds of food. A lot of the foods we eat are acidic and cause lots of different diseases to manifest in our bodies. We need to eat more foods that are alkaline. Diseases can’t live in an alkaline environment. By reading this book and applying all of its principals will give black men and people with chronic illnesses the opportunity to experience self-awareness and unlock the power of their mind, body and spirit. My book Teddy gives them a tool that can be used to reverse some of their illnesses by positive thinking, eating the right foods, getting more exercise, drinking plenty of water and staying focused on what brings them joy.

BPM: What advice would you give a new business owner?
Chose a business that will utilize their gifts. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. Ask many questions about the business you want to pursue. Get advice from those who maybe in the same business. There are many resources on the internet. Develop the skills needed to run the business and surround yourself with talented people and don’t be afraid to let an employee go if they bring no value to your business, Trust your instinct and don’t be afraid to take chances. Have fun and listen for the directions from God that you should take and have faith that you will succeed following your dream.

Order How is My “T.E.D.D.Y” ? by Leron Young
Kindle Link:  https://amzn.com/B01BTJL6US 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Ally Fleming

Intimate Conversation with Ally Fleming

Ally Fleming’s world is one where the imagination is fueled by the suspense of fiction, the allure of romance, the depravity of villains and the potency of those who oppose them. Her work is influenced by an infatuation with powerful heroes, irresistible heroines, gritty story-lines, intriguing villains and the heat those forces generate.

She’s an award-winning author, with over 14 years in the business. Her writing creds span the historical and contemporary romance genres as well as contemporary and paranormal YA. She also dabbles in erotica. Ally Fleming is her pen-name for interracial (BWWM) suspense fiction. She’s more widely known as AlTonya Washington. Visit Ally Fleming’s Website

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Is this book available on Nook and Kindle? 
My most recent work is entitled “Intoxicated” and readers can find it on the Kindle and Nook platforms as well as a host of others. It’s an Interracial (BWWM) romantic suspense piece that features a couple who meet under seemingly normal circumstances but come to discover that their worlds are far more intimately connected than either of them can imagine. For our heroine Etienne Shaw, it’s a connection that’s she’s not at all comfortable with.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
The main characters are our hero Mercuri Nikolaides and our heroine Etienne (Tee) Shaw. I just had the best time creating this couple and their backstories. ‘Special’ is such a tame word to use when I describe them, I guess because they struck such a chord with me from the moment I envisioned them, their circumstances and what it would take for them to be together. I suppose if I had to pick the most special thing about Mercuri (aside from the fact that he’s to-die-for gorgeous), it would be the level of devotion he has for those he loves. At the onset of the story, that devotion only extends to his 4 best friends, but eventually comes to include Tee in a really powerful way.

As for Tee, readers immediately see that she’s a very small person physically. That was an aspect I enjoyed playing around with especially since Mercuri is-as the subtitle states- a giant, at 6’7 and well over 260lbs. Tee’s a really little thing, but you quickly see that she’s a force. It’s Tee who initiates the actions that set the stage for our story. She’s the last person you’d expect to do what she does to avenge what she’s perceived to be an injustice. I loved taking someone who would otherwise be underestimated and making them the most dynamic person in the book.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
As I state in the reader letter at the end of the work, I was in the process of getting ideas together for another project when this one just hit me. As I stated earlier, it’s an interracial romance and writing one of these has always appealed to me. Given that, when this idea came to mind and I knew that I wanted it to be an IR Suspense title it just seemed like the perfect time to get started on it. I’m not sure why this time was any different from any other time especially since I’ve crafted IR couples before. (Kraven DeBurgh and Darby Ellis in Lover’s Allure and A Lover’s Sin.) The fact that the desire to do this story hit again and so powerfully, just made me push everything else aside and dive in. So that my readers will know that it’s an interracial romance, I’m writing under a new pen name- Ally Fleming.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I enjoyed so much, but I suppose it’s the sense of freedom I experienced. Aside from wanting to write an IR title, I also wanted to try my hand at a new series that could be read as a standalone. “Intoxicated” is the first of 4 and it was so freeing to be crafting new circumstances, new drama, new couples. In a sense, starting with a clean slate. I just completed the Ramsey Tesano series which has run for about 10 years. I’ve enjoyed every moment of crafting that saga, but it took a lot out of me. It was great to move into new territory.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why?
My ideas come from so many places. Something as ordinary as a couple walking down the street can and has sparked inspiration. I’ve even gotten ideas simply from hearing (or coming up with) a new name and have been inspired to craft a story about the sort of person who might have a name like that. I would say my books are character-driven. Some might argue they seem plot-driven, but for me it’s the characters who drive the majority of how the plot is crafted. I’ve had chapters outlined just the way I wanted them, but once I actually wrote up to that point, things changed. The way I’ve imagined a plot usually doesn’t play out that way once the characters have come alive for me during the writing.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
Yeah…for this one, yes. I often say that I don’t attempt to give a lesson in my stories. If that happens, it’s not intentional. When I sit down to write, I just want to tell a story. For “Intoxicated”, yes the events that take place do fix on underrepresented groups and themes. For Tee and her friends, they are four young women who make a decision out of desperation. Financial distress can bring about a lot of bad decisions that only make the problem worse. In this book a very bad decision is based on a need for money. The girls get drawn into a situation and, for a night, are labeled as something no woman wants to be labeled as. We tend to look down on such women, without ever knowing their motivations. We simply label these women as trash and keep moving.

On the flip side, Mercuri and his friends are attempting to distance themselves from an organization that raised them to be mercenaries. Here, we see these men who were taken as children with no one to fight for them and no way to fight for themselves. Once they are free, they don’t look back. Eventually, circumstances become such that they have to look back and finish what they started by destroying the organization they’ve killed for.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, spiritual practice or journey?
Well I’m a single mom and that’s tough especially when you’re doing it on your own. I’m a librarian and an author and many times I find myself in situations where my finances can be called into question. While writing this story I couldn’t help but wonder what my reaction would be to someone offering me a ‘bail-out’ like the one Tee and her friends received.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
I think it’s more accurate for me to say I reacquainted myself with things I already knew instead of learning new things. We all know you can’t judge a book by its cover and Tee blew that misconception right out of the water. If I learned anything, it was how to craft a total bad-ass out of the most unlikely character.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
Oh this answer is so easy. I met no one while writing or researching this book! I was in my cave the entire time.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
I can say with a resounding yes, that I achieved my goals and realized my intentions with “Intoxicated”. I wanted to craft an IR Suspense title that wasn’t focused on the fact that this was a story about a white man and black woman falling in love, but of a man and woman falling in love amid a slew of villains and dangerous circumstances and oh, by the way, he happens to be white and she happens to be black. I didn’t want their race to be the overarching theme so much as the themes of desperation, revenge, desire and love that shape the storyline. Additionally, I wanted to craft a story that could be part of a series and also act as a standalone. I believe that effort was realized as well.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
So right now, I’m working on another story that kicked me in the gut out of nowhere. This has been happening a lot lately and I’m running with it. This is slated to be an African American contemporary romance, but the storyline holds historical significance. The heroes and heroines of this trilogy will face a dark truth about the history of the island outside of Charleston that their families settled (or were given to settle) prior to the Civil War. The revelations they will uncover stretch into the present. They shed light; on not only the history of the island, but the truth behind what brought an end to their personal relationships before they had the chance to really begin. I’m looking at a Christmas release for the work tentatively titled “Tradition.”

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
My readers can find me mostly anywhere! Below are my social media links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ramseysgirl
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/altonyaw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novelally/ 
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/337210.AlTonya_Washington

 

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Intimate Conversation with Joan Early

Intimate Conversation with Joan Early

Following a lengthy career in Mortgage Banking and Mortgage Law, Joan Early focused on the love of books she developed as a child, both reading and writing. Her first writing effort won first place in Ebony Magazine’s literary contest, and enriched her desire to pen her thoughts. She continued writing historical fiction and stories based partly on stories told by her ancestors, but changed to contemporary romance. Sara’s Reward, NightSweats, Heartstrings, A Tangled Web are available in eBook, as are her first novels, Look Both Ways, Fireflies, Oak Bluffs, Friends in Need, and Separate Dreams.

Joan’s latest novel, The Other Two-Fifths, is a walk back in time, and chronicles events that led to the formation of the NAACP. It also features events taken from her early life in Mississippi, where Joan affirms learning “the best and the worst” of what we can expect from others. Joan continues writing both genres, while enjoying her husband and family, traveling, and her current career in Real Estate. Joan and husband Dale currently reside in the Beaumont, Texas area, while also maintaining a home in Houston.

BPM: Tell us something about your most recent work.  Is this book available on Nook and Kindle?
Joan: The Other Two-Fifths is a story I began writing over ten years ago that details events of the past, which now seem glaring relevant with the strong focus on race relations. The book is available in paperback and eBook at bookstores, from the publisher, Argus Books, and on amazon.com.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
Joan: Characters in the early part of the story were taken from tapestries of my early life, and show the depths to which many will go when they feel threatened. The also show how both love and hatred motivate our actions. The characters working voter registration drives typifies college age blacks in 1969, recent Vietnam veterans who returned to a world that didn’t embrace their sacrifice. The character of Tuck, the young white freedom rider, is taken from a young man I had the pleasure of meeting in Mississippi in 1968, who wanted to be involved. Both the protagonist and the heroes, the good and the bad are part of life. The two young women, Darlene and Camille, are patterned after myself and my “road-dog” back in my early life. We wanted to be change the world, fall in love, and do everything young adults seek on the way to happiness.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
Joan: I began the story in 1969, which was one of the most signifiant years of my life, and my last year living in Mississippi. I wanted to leave a piece of our journey, as the sacrifices and risks many took to bring about a change. When Senator Obama announced his presidential candidacy in Springfield, Illinois, I revised the beginning to reflect a race riot in Springfield 100 years before Senator Obama’s historical announcement. The events of which were a springboard for the NAACP.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book? 
Joan: I enjoyed reflecting on the past and following the progress this country has made toward equality, as well as the strides needed to make the playing field even.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why? 
Joan: My ideas are taken from current events, historical occurrences, and even vacation trips to places of inspiration, such as Martha’s Vineyard, my inspiration for Oak Bluffs. My stories are driven by characters more than plot, as I do not work from an outline. I try and create memorable characters who will remain in the reader’s hearts long after the book is read. It’s the job of those characters to move the story along. I have, from time to time, totally changed the natural progression of characters and placed them on another path as the story takes shape.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them. 
Joan: The story is mainly about the struggle for equality that was and still is an uphill battle for minorities, especially those of African descent. It also shows how the immigrants who settled America after slaughtering the natives who dwelt here, created exactly what most of them were running from, religious persecution, and unfair practices of the ruling class. Here in America, the mostly European settlers became the ruling class, using slave labor to achieve wealth and status.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey? 
Joan: The story relates to present struggles for racial equality that will determine this country’s future. Much has changed for me, and for all Americans. The changes I outlined for my life have been fruitful and greatly rewarding, which I owe, in part, to the wonderful teachers who instilled a strong thirst for knowledge. I was also told that any education taken only from classroom experience alone is not enough, so I read everything I could get my hands on back then. Reading, learning, knowing more than what’s encased in your immediate sphere and focusing on the world as a whole.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
Joan: I learned a lot from my research and how the past had helped shape my thoughts, dreams, and my way of life. It also made me more aware of the omissions in our history books, and again, of the necessity to read.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book? 
Joan: I met a very accomplished and interesting journalist whose relentless coverage of a murder in my hometown of Woodville, Mississippi made me shudder.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
Joan: My goal in writing The Other Two-Fifths was to showcase the efforts that have been made for the freedoms we now enjoy. Our youth is severely lacking in understanding of our culture and the sacrifices made for the advancements we now see. My continued goal is to speak to the curiosity of those who could benefit from knowing these facts.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present? 
Joan: I usually work on more than one book, either completing or editing. I have several I would like to have published, and I’m also working on the sequel to The Other Two-fifths.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Joan: Connect with me on Facebook and my Facebook page, Joan’sBookNook. Visit my website http://www.joanearly.net, leave a message at http://www.joanearlybooks.com, follow me on https://twitter.com/JoanJEarly, Google and LinkedIn.

In addition to all book stores and the publisher at http://www.a-argusbooks.com, The Other Two-Fifths is available on Amazon, along with my other books at:  https://www.amazon.com/Joan-Early/e/B004HNCQ0I

The Other Two-Fifths by Joan Early:  Link: http://a.co/6Vsqk4f 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Paulette Harper

Intimate Conversation with Paulette Harper

In addition to being an award winning author of Completely Whole, Paulette is an inspirational speaker, as well as a writing workshop instructor. She has a passion to coach aspiring authors and speaks into the lives of women from every walk of life. Her literary works have been spotlighted in a growing number of publications, including CBN, Real Life Real Faith Magazine, and Black Pearls Magazine. She has also appeared on numerous local and online radio shows.  Paulette resides in Northern California.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? 
Secret Places Revealed is an inspirational romance story. Both characters have experience pain from past relationships that makes it difficult to get past and embrace the possibility that love is possible the second time around.

BPM: Is Secret Places Revealed available on Nook and Kindle?
Yes. Secret Places Revealed is available on Nook, Kindle and Paperback.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers.
The hero, Aaron Blackman has been hurt from a previous relationship and now he has vowed not to be in another one. While the heroine, Simone is slowly recovering from a traumatic loss that has left her still bruised and unwilling to move past the pain to discover a second chance at love.

Aaron Blackman is not looking for love, in fact the only thing he has on his agenda is adding to his real estate development portfolio, while Simone Herron has her own internal battles with trust and abandonment. One decision on her part leads her to meet the eligible bachelor who is smitten by her, but has made a vow to himself not to get involved.

BPM: What makes each one so special?
I believe what makes Aaron special is the fact that he knows his weaknesses and he is willing to own up to them to make the changes he needs in his life. What makes Simone special is her ability to face her challenges and accept that it’s okay to move forward and experience love again.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
The inspiration behind SPR comes from a desire to write a fiction book. This is my first novel and it has been such a learning process. Crossing over to another genre has been rewarding, challenging and it has stretched me beyond my own imagination. But I have loved every moment.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing Secret Places Revealed?
What I enjoyed most about writing Secret Places Revealed was I finally understood what other writers meant when they said “Those characters in my head keep talking.” These characters had a mind and will of their own and they pretty much give the direction of the story.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from?
Being that I am a romantic at heart, reading romance stories comes easy for me. I wanted to write something that I could identify with and share with readers who also love reading inspirational romance stories.

Most of my books are inspirational non-fiction but I wanted to write a fiction love story for quite some time. It was just a matter of how was I going to put two people together, cause friction in their relationship and cause them to be reconciled again.

BPM: Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? 
Secret Places Revealed is my first novel and it is character driven. Although these are fictional characters, their personal struggles are real. Aaron and Simone are two individuals whose hearts have been shattered and their experiences in life have left them broken. Not broken beyond repair, but broken enough that it will take an intervention to bring them together.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
Personally my book relates to me. I’ve taken these characters and tried my best to develop them in ways that readers can find themselves identifying with. Although these are fictional characters what they experience in life is real. I believe it’s these kind of stories that will build my reader base, speak to readers and cause readers to keep coming back.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
Yes. I did. Personally, I found that I do have the ability to write a fiction story that readers can fall in love with. Sometimes life and people can discourage you from going after your own dreams. I’m very thankful to God for the ability to pen and write stories for both nonfiction and fiction readers.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book and how well do you feel you achieved them?
I love to mix real life stories into my fiction. Although each story is unique, we experience some of the same feelings, situations and challenges in life in which the reader can identity. With the ability to craft fiction books, it gives me the opportunity to live through each character. I believe I have achieved my goals with SPR.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Currently, I’m working on a Christmas romance novella. It’s in its early stages with the development of the characters and story line.

Website:  http://www.pauletteharper.com
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/pauletteharper
Amazon author page:  http://amzn.com/e/B004FEJKCQ
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authorpauletteharper
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/pauletteharper1 
Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5824102.Paulette_Harper

Purchase Secret Places Revealed by Paulette Harper
Genre: Inspirational Romance.  Clean Fiction.
Amazon link:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/0989969150 

 

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Intimate Conversation with Cory The Author

Intimate Conversation with Cory The Author

Cory The Author was born and raised in Atlanta Georgia. As a kid he had always dreamed of being a writer. At the tender age of 14 he read the 48 Laws of Power and The Art of War. Fascinated by strategy he wanted to write his very own book. After years of working in corporations he quit his job to become a full time author. Also Inspired by The Four Hour Work Week, and 33 Strategies of War he wrote the The Aha Moment: The Guide to Creating A Game Changer.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work?  
I’ve written a book on the power of ideas, and how they shape society. The idea is to take those ideas you have and make your own Game Changers. It’s about not being a follower, but being a Game Changer..

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? 
Unemployment is high. We as a society aren’t creative anymore. We are the perfect employee, Zombie, or robot. Where are the Game Changers? Where are the people with great ideas. I want to inspire people to be creative. I want to inspire people to change the game.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book? 
The possibility of people reading it, and becoming inspired.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven?  
It came out of frustration. I hate seeing people struggle when we were born to create. We were born to be Game Changers. History shows that.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey? 
If you look at society unemployment is high.The rich keep getting richer. People are looking for answers. We as a people are more powerful than we realize. We just need to tap into that special power.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
I learned that I have what it takes to accomplish anything No matter the circumstances.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book? 
I’ve met entrepreneurs who actually inspired me to follow my dreams. I especially mentioned in my book that I met this barber who started from nothing, and now he has two barbershops. He did it when the odds were against him a far as funding. He persevered and created his own Game Changer.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
My goal is to inspire, and empower people with this book. It’s a working process, but I’ll get there.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present? 
I’m working on my new Health book call Hustlers Guide to Health, Wealth, and Diet. I just finished a book call F*ck You Money: The Guide To Hiring Yourself, and Firing Yourself.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
https://t.co/VVHfdXDAsT  
https://twitter.com/Corypitts9 
https://www.instagram.com/cory.favier 
https://www.facebook.com/Corythehustler 

Purchase The Aha Moment: The Guide To Creating A Game Changer 
Nonfiction>Self-Help>Motivational>Business & Money>Job Hunting & Careers
https://www.amazon.com/Aha-Moment-Guide-Creating-Changer/dp/1523409274 

 

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Intimate Conversation with M.J. Kane

Intimate Conversation with M.J. Kane

M.J. Kane stumbled into writing. An avid reader, this once stay-at-home mom never lost the overactive imagination of an only child. As an adult she made up stories, though never shared them, to keep herself entertained. It wasn’t until surviving a traumatic medical incident in 2006 that she found a reason to let the characters inhabiting her imagination free. Upon the suggestion of her husband, she commandeered his laptop and allowed the characters to take life. It was that, or look over her shoulder for men caring a purple strait jacket. And the rest, as they say, is history.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Is this book available on Nook and Kindle?
M.J.: JADED is the second book in The Butterfly Memoirs series and can be found on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes, ARe, Smashwords, and Kobo.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
M.J.: JADED is Yasmine’s story. If you’ve read the first book, A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN, you were introduced to her carefree and confident personality. She knows what she wants out of life and has no problem going after it. Zachariah, the male lead, is what I like to call a ‘quiet hero’. At first glance, he’s not the type of guy outspoken Yasmine would go for. But after experiencing heartbreak, he’s the perfect man for her.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
M.J.: Yasmine Phillips is one of the most misunderstood characters in the series which is why I loved featuring her in her own story. Some readers don’t like her brash personality or dislike what they feel is a ‘conceited woman’ who gets on their nerves. But that isn’t who she is; it’s the mask she puts on for the world to see in order to hide the heartache and betrayal she’s experienced. Once readers get to know who she is; their minds and hearts open up and are able to relate to some of her experiences. Reading her story will bring you to the heart of the character.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
M.J.: I loved having the opportunity to take a misunderstood character and turn her into a woman people can understand to the point that it makes them rethink their first impressions about the people around them. First impressions should not be the only thing you base your opinions about people on!

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why?
M.J.: My stories come from looking at the things that we all go through. Life is all the inspiration I need. Regardless of the color of our skin, where we live, or how much money we have in the bank, at some point, we all are faced with the same life altering circumstances. We’re all looking for love, have family that gets on our nerves, and unfortunately, suffer from illnesses that don’t discriminate. What makes us who we are is how we react to whatever life throws at us. This is what makes my stories so character driven.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
M.J.: No, there are no special groups featured in this story. The topics addressed deal with women as entrepreneurs, dealing with family issues, friendship, recovering from a broken heart, and life-threatening illness.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
M.J.: So far I have five novels and each character has had a bit of my life experiences interjected into their personality or story. I like to think of my female characters as different facets of my personality. The woman I was, the woman I am, the woman I strive to be, and occasionally, the woman who I wouldn’t have a nerve to be, but man would it be fun if I did!

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
M.J.: Yes, I did, and believe it or not, it wasn’t the female lead, Yasmine, it was the male lead, Zachariah Givens. Writing a character who is pained by the fact that he can’t remember a much as he would like to of his father who passed when he was younger is so me. My father died unexpectedly when I was ten-years-old and to this day, I have a hard time remembering his laugh or his smile. The same is true for Zack. I guess I worked through some unknown emotional issues on this book which is why to this day, when I read it, I still get teary-eyed at the same spots.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
M.J.: This book didn’t need a lot of research in order to develop these characters. Mostly it was memories of my father while growing up and my grandmother and aunt who suffered from breast cancer. In fact, an incident that happens to Zach’s mother is the exact same thing that happened with my grandmother.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
M.J.: My goal with Yasmine and Zach’s story was to help readers to understand that a person cannot be judged by their looks or skin. Just because a person may be beautiful in appearance does not mean they are living a happy life. Everyone has some secret floating just below the surface as to who we truly are. Also, the person we are meant to be with for the rest of our lives maybe the exact opposite of what we think we need. Our hearts are what should guide us to finding love, not our eyes.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
M.J.: I am currently wrapping up the fifth novel in The Butterfly Memoirs series, ALONE. This is a story that has been hovering in the back of my mind since 2011, when I was writing the first novel, A HEART NOT EASILY BROKEN. The series isn’t about one set of characters, but rather characters who know each other in some way either as friends or family. Each story is about a different couple, and each story can be read as a standalone novel or from beginning to end.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
I can be found all over the web:
Website: MJKaneMedia.com
Facebook: MJKaneBooks
Twitter: MJKaneBooks
Instagram: MJKaneBooks
YouTube: MJKaneMedia

 

 

 

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Intimate Conversation with L.A. Lewis

Intimate Conversation with L.A. Lewis

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? 
My new novel is titled Double Down and Dirty. The story is about Jade Bordeaux who escaped her Southern Baptist family and moved to New York because they would never respect the choices she made or the secret she kept. The Big Apple and her new modeling career proved to be more adventurous than her life in Baton Rouge. Excitement flowed through everything from the towering landscapes, wonderful opportunities, and especially in the form of handsome CEO Sean Wright. Dating him takes an unfortunate turn when his sister’s dance to the rhythm of revenge becomes a tune she’s hell-bent on sharing with her family and the people they love.

In a matter of weeks, Jade’s life takes an uncertain and dangerous turn. Nothing prepared her for the call which stirs emotions Jade thought she’d buried. The former Governor of Louisiana has denied her existence since birth and now makes a life-altering request that fills Jade with resentment. Jade built her success and happiness by making hard choices, even ones that cause heartbreak. Unfortunately, she never imagined that any of those choices could lead to the death of someone she loves. Jade soon learns in the game of life, sometimes playing Double Down and Dirty is the only way to win.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
What makes Jade so special is her determined attitude. There were many times where she could’ve given up and decided to live a mediocre life, but that wasn’t her dream. She wasn’t afraid to take risks, which is how she became a highly sought after super model.

Sean Wright is special because his stern exterior doesn’t match his loving interior. He’s been forced to make decisions that others don’t always understand, but Sean never does anything without thinking of the bigger picture, and even though others feel his bigger picture is his bank account, Sean knows his heart. The choices he’s made in business and relationships are always beneficial to the people he loves, even if they can’t see it or understand it at the time.

Adrian Wright, Sean’s sister, is special because she carries around an immense amount of weight from her past, and she somehow finds the strength to keep going. Unfortunately, she’s so blinded by hurt that she in returns hurts others, but even she has her limits on how far she’s willing to go.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
The funny thing is, I didn’t sit down to start writing this book in particular. I sat down to write a story about two sisters who were complete opposites. One was a country girl living in Louisiana, and the other was the successful realtor living in New York. The more I wrote, the more it started to sound too Tyler Perry-ish. Don’t get me wrong; I absolutely love me some Tyler Perry, but I’m not trying to be him. So, after brainstorming with my developmental editor, we thought of scenarios that would make this story different from anything else out there. Instead of the drama with her sister, it became drama with his sister. Along with a lot of other situations that make this story quite unique. Their lives are all intermingled in ways they didn’t know in the beginning. Each chapter offers a new “wow” factor in the lives of these people, and that’s the story I wanted to write, so I did.

BPM: How do you select the names of your characters?
After writing a description of my characters, I usually Google popular names from the year they were born. The name will usually jump out at me when I see it. She’s a fashion model, very beautiful, very intelligent, so Jade sounded like it would fit her perfectly. Sean Wright has a rich, confident sound to me. So, I went with that.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from?
I can get an idea for a book from an ordinary conversation. My husband and I were discussing a situation just the other day, and he said something that started my creative wheels spinning. In a matter of minutes, I had mentally written an outline of a book that could stem from that conversation. I think the creative mind finds ideas everywhere. It could be something the preacher says during his sermon, or a news article, a situation a friend has gone through or is going through. Ideas are all around if you’re tuned into them. Usually, I am. It’s hard to turn my creative mind off.

BPM: Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? 
My books are character driven. I get so wrapped up in these people that it’s hard for me not to write based on how they’re feeling. How their actions change the story. How the things that’s happening to them changes them throughout the story. My characters are my story.

BPM: Is writing easy for you? Do you feel lonely being a writer?
Lonely? With all these people living in my head? No way LOL! Writing does come very easy for me. I never recognized it as a gift until I wrote my first novel and noticed how impressed my friends and family were that I could write a whole book. They were amazed. That’s when it hit me that I’d accomplished something special. I have a unique gift.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I enjoyed writing Jade’s storyline the most. It gave me an opportunity to be someone I’m not. Jade doesn’t mind saying what’s on her mind, I do. Jade’s very confident. She’s not afraid of taking risks, as I stated earlier. For me, it’s always fun to step outside of myself and become opposite of who I’ve been for the last 39 years.

BPM: How long does it take to complete one of your books?
Well, because there’s this thing called “real-life” it takes me about a year to complete a book. I’m the mother of two very active children. My son tries to play every sport known to man, and my daughter is part of competitive cheer team. Right now, my life revolves around their schedules, so writing takes a little longer. Oh, and I also have a full-time job and a husband who requires attention every now and then.

BPM: Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?
This is going to be so cliché, but it’s the truth. To be a better writer, you must, read a lot of novels written by really strong authors, write a lot, even if it’s not a novel. You can journal, write a short story, rewrite something you read and felt could’ve been better, and attend writing workshops if they’re available. Never stop working to improve your craft.

BPM: What period of your life do you find you write about more often?  
Young adult. I do write personalized children books, but my novels are all young adult.

BPM: How do you feel when someone disagrees with something you have written?
At the beginning of my writing career, I’d get offended. They didn’t know it, but it hurt a lot to hear anything that could be taken as negative about your work. Now that I’ve been doing this for a while, I’ve toughened up a lot, especially since I saw where the criticisms helped to make me a better writer. I welcome constructive criticism now.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
I don’t know if it’s under-represented this day in age, but it does touch on living an alternative lifestyle and dealing with judgment from the one person who’s supposed to love you unconditionally. It forces my characters to have the difficult conversation bypointing out that one sin isn’t better or worse than another.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
This book relates to my journey of living life on purpose. I believe there are some people who just know what they’re meant to do and meant to be in this life, but they’re too afraid, for whatever reason, to step out and do it. Even though this book is fiction, based on fictional characters, the things that they go through is real-life. People are taking risks every day, and it’s paying off big time. I’m learning to do the same and the art of persistence. Jade and Sean are two people who don’t believe in no, not when it comes to something they really want. They find a way to make it happen. That’s how I’m learning to be. Unless I feel that God is blocking it, then I’ll step away and let Him lead me to my “yes.”

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I learned to stop overthinking and just write. I used to picture everyone from family to church members who’d be reading it, and that was a lot of stress. With this book, I just wrote. L.A. Lewis doesn’t curse, but her characters do a little. Very little, I still have my limits. I’ve learned to stop stifling my creative juices and just let them flow.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
My goal was to have another book released this year. My goal was to grow as an author, and one of my beta readers, who’s read my previous work, said she could definitely see a difference in my writing. I’m proud of this book. It was super hard because my editor is a beast and she works you, but it paid off. I have a product I’m proud to stand behind.

BPM: What does literary success look like to you?
Having reader begging you to never stop writing. That’s what literary success looks like to me.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Right now I’m working on my fourth novel “Wife Swap,” and doing a lot of reading and researching about scriptwriting. I’m very interested in writing for TV, and I know it’ll happen as soon as I’m ready. Right now I’m studying to show myself approved.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
I’m on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram all under the name Author L.A. Lewis. My website is http://www.authorlalewis.com and my Gmail is authorlalewis@gmail.com

Website: www.authorlalewis.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorLALewis
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlalewis

Double Down and Dirty by L.A. Lewis
Order Link: http://a.co/bnZalYx 
Contemporary Fiction. Available on Kindle

 

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Intimate Conversation with Re’Gena Bell-Roberts

Intimate Conversation with Re’Gena Bell-Roberts

Re’Gena Bell-Roberts was featured on the Steve Harvey Show as one of the Harvey’s Heroes!

Re’Gena Bell-Roberts is an actress, poet, award-winning playwright and author whose published work includes a collection of prose and poetry. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of California at Los Angeles and raised her four children as a single parent while continuing to pursue a career.

Re’Gena won the Rockefeller Foundation award for her play “Eclipse”; and a Prose award from Culver City Community College. She produced and directed an NAACP Martin Luther King Day celebration event; and received numerous awards for her community service. She was featured on the Steve Harvey Show and honored as one of “Steve Harvey’s Hero.”  Re’Gena resides in Murrieta, California.

BPM: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you? What impact do you want your book to make on the readers?
My passion for writing began at an early age while searching for a voice among my seven siblings. It was then that I discovered the power of the written word in the form of poetry or short stories. I am driven to write because it empowers me as an artist to evoke my inner feelings, thoughts and emotions and share them with others.

I want Walking on Thin Ice to take the reader on an unforgettable journey of love, pain and heartbreak that will inspire, motivate an empower them to make better choices and decisions in order to have a better quality of life.

BPM: Can you share a little of your current work with us? Introduce us to your book. 
Walking on Thin Ice is a love story told amid the backdrop of passion, betrayal and pain. The book opens up with all the candor –– frustration, love, trial, tribulation and humor –– indicative of the human spirit. I wrote the book after cultivating it mentally and physically for many years.

Walking on Thin Ice, a memoir of love, hate, envy, and greed traces a young woman’s pursuit of stardom down a dangerous road that leads to shattered dreams and a harrowing fate.

The young woman longed for fame and fortune until at last a man comes to set her free – only to be betrayed again. The saga portrays her tumultuous life as she struggles to deal with a tragic life-threatening event. Against life’s most overwhelming odds, she fights back with unshakable strength, courage, and a will to survive.

BPM: Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers… 
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers… a message of hope in the face of adversity.

BPM: What was your primary quest in publishing this book?
My primary quest in publishing the book was to share my story–– my struggles, my truths and my journey to convey a message of love, hope and redemption.

BPM: Who did you write this book for? Why?
I wrote this book for young girls and women who are craving the love of a man, as I did, and who are interested in or can relate to the ups and downs of a tumultuous relationship, and the risks of following your heart and desires into dangerous territory. I wrote this book for anyone who has ever been in an abusive relationship whether it’s physical, emotional or psychological. The story is as relevant today as it was decades ago.

BPM: Walk us through your journey to success. How did you get to this point? What has been your greatest challenge and how did you overcome it?
My success came after my lowest point and on the threshold of losing faith until I surrendered the reigns of my life to God. My faith allowed me to trust God and understand that sometimes the plans we make for ourselves is not the plan that He has for us. At that point I prepared to use my gift of writing knowing that it would be a long and arduous task.

My greatest challenge was facing reality –– the truth about the choices I made and how they impacted not only my life, but the lives of my family and friends—my loved ones. I overcame the experience first by accepting responsibility in the detrimental role I played in self-destruction and second, accepting the amazing grace of a second chance.

BPM: At what point in your career did you discover your real worth and own it?
I discovered my real worth the moment I regained use of my hands and placed wet ink on paper. I claimed it and took ownership of it.

BPM: Was there anyone early in your career that recognized your talent and help cultivate it?
Yes. It was definitely two of my English/literature teachers in high school who encouraged my writing talent and offered personal selections of books for me to read.

BPM: Do you feel as if your writing is making a positive impact on readers, women, or the world?
Yes. I do believe my writing is making a positive impact on readers of both gender, male and female. I feel that my book causes readers to pause and examine their relationships. It draws them deep into the very fiber and psyche of how it feels to be “Walking on Thin Ice.”

Connect with Re’Gena Bell-Roberts 
Twitter:  http://twitter.com/rlbroberts 
Website:  http://walking-on-thin-ice.com
Facebook:  http://facebook.com/regena.bellroberts


Order Walking on Thin Ice by Re’Gena Bell-Roberts
Download Link:  http://amzn.com/1491764759 
Genre:   True Story. Non-fiction. Memoir 

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Intimate Conversation with Andrea Blackstone &Tyler Stallings

Intimate Conversation with
Andrea Blackstone &Tyler Stallings

Tyler Stallings is an outgoing kidpreneur with an active imagination. Although one of the 4-year-old’s favorite hobbies is running a fictitious construction company and building things, he enjoys picking out his own books, discussing them, traveling and meeting awesome people from all parts of the world.

Like many children his age, Tyler began making countless excuses why he could not go to bed at night. His mother, Andrea Blackstone, decided to make up a game about traveling around the world, to encourage her son to settle down and go to sleep. Playing the game where Tyler transformed into a superhero who travels became so popular, it became a welcomed ritual when he was three. After Tyler’s questions about places he traveled in his imagination increased when he turned four years old, Blackstone asked Tyler if he wanted to write his own book. When Tyler agreed, she decided to invest in her son’s dream to become an author at a young age.

Tyler’s journey to co-write a book with his mother evolved into an early lesson in entrepreneurship. Since Tyler enjoys helping his mother with community work, he agreed that giving back to causes should be a part of his book project. Under the umbrella of Lois’ Giving Circle—which will be established in the name of his late grandmother who was an elementary school teacher, Tyler will create or support community projects.

Since Tyler and his mother are both children of veterans, a portion of the proceeds from the limited edition of “Tyler Goes Around The World” will be donated to organizations supporting veterans who served our country. With the help of his mother, the honorary CEO of Kid Time Enterprises, LLC aspires to spread the love of pursuing passions at any age, doing good things and reading books, one superhero mission at a time!

BPM: Tell me about your book. How did you come up with that (story, angle, idea)? 
Like many 4-year-old children, Tyler did not like to go to bed at night. We began pretending to travel to places, after tying an imaginary cape around his neck. He eventually started asking to fly around the world, by using his imagination. Our game became a creative way to get him to go to bed with less resistance.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
Tyler is a superhero in his book. As the main character, he discovers new places and makes new friends in nearby places and countries located far away from home. “Super Tyler” is unafraid to embrace cultures which are unfamiliar to him. He sees or learns something different each time he lands in a new place after flying. The animals and people he encounters welcome him in return.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
Tyler wanted to play his adventure game so frequently, I thought it may have potential to appeal to other children and parents. We began to study countries and discuss them at night while playing the game. I eventually asked Tyler if he would like to write a story about his adventures, since he loves books, and he has always been nearby while I worked on writing assignments. Tyler often handed books to me and begged me to read them to him while I was working on the computer. Writing “Tyler Goes Around the World” was a way to spend time with each other in a meaningful way without doing something that involved the television or electronic devices. I think kids get enough of that. I wanted to spend time with him face-to-face without distractions. He wanted and deserved my undivided attention.

We decided to publish the story this year because he is older than when we created the game. Since he is four years old, he can now provide more input and help. Lastly, I felt that a story promoting tolerance and togetherness is timely. The world is a diverse place. In my opinion, we need more stories to reflect diversity so that more young people may feel included in the human experience.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I enjoyed watching Tyler mature while learning new skills. He felt excited to pick out what he wanted to see in the book and make decisions while producing the project. When he made mistakes, he learned lessons that helped him to improve.

BPM: What kind of research did you do for this book?
I showed Tyler a globe, then I allowed him to pick out some appealing places to include in his manuscript. We studied the culture, animals, customs, temperature, words and related elements of story development. The Internet does not always provide reliable information, so I made calls to embassies to try to confirm what we read about places in different places in the world. Additionally, I called American Indian cultural centers to consult with experts about Native American culture.

BPM: What are the five words you would like to be remembered by as a writer?
I contributed to making a change.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
I learned that it is true that kids are sponges. My son embraced the idea that he could be viewed as a superhero who brings people from around the world together, because I introduced him to the idea that treating others well is important. He usually does not fear learning about people who are from other places, or who may not share the same ethnicity, or speak the same language. At the same time, I learned that making extra effort to empower children of color can be extremely important. They can also be main characters in stories of all kinds. Many do not have enough opportunities to see themselves represented in positive ways, since positive stories are often not shared as much as negative news. Before we began the project, I felt very disappointed by the lack of good stories about boys of color that were available online. Not everyone embraces Tyler’s journey, but he is learning early that he must believe in himself to achieve anything.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while working in the community?
I allowed Tyler to become the focus of Kid Time Enterprises, LLC and decided to make him the honorary CEO. Since he expressed interest in business and supporting veterans, he met hundreds of people while collecting donations and delivering items to these homeless and elderly heroes. It was his idea to create Give Back to Veterans Day, because he wanted to do something special for them. Additionally, we met youth and adults while giving away thousands of books in Maryland, the District of Columbia and Virginia, with the help of a company called Discover Books.

I think one special moment was hearing veterans thank Tyler for bringing hygiene and grooming products to them. They have done so much for our country, yet they thanked him, and he even received a letter of thanks! Tyler spoke on the microphone for the first time at one of his events. He told me that he felt good to do something nice. The governor of Maryland recognized Tyler for his interest to help the community at a young age. Several elected officials know about what he is doing to help veterans and other children.

Lastly, during one of Tyler’s last book giveaway event, many children who reside in areas that many people overlook ran to pick out free books of their choice. Some of their parents asked me if they could have more than one. They were extremely excited to have them. Making the selections will allow these students to have books of their own to read this summer. I learned that many kids may just need more people to show they care about them. Companies like Discover Books, Wegmans and nonprofits like Start A Snowball invest in communities. In addition to members of the community who stepped up to help, their support and donations made a big difference in exposing youth to positive experiences and exciting literary events. I appreciate their support.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book? 
My goal was to establish a platform for Tyler to write books and tell stories that he would like to create as he grows as a writer and kidpreneur. The project introduced him to the idea of having a work ethic, budgeting, saving money, and striving to earn it. Plus, learning can be fun if we take the time to teach children new skills as they participate in a process. We hope to create interest in Kid Time Enterprises, LLC so that we can also help other children to embrace their dreams, and pursue their passions, with encouragement from supportive adults.

“Tyler Goes Around the World” is our first project. I want to remind other parents to take time to consider their children’s ideas, even if they happen to express interest in something unusual. A child can inspire a positive movement. Our goal is to inspire people of all ages to pursue their dreams.

Finally, I want boys to feel encouraged, too. I do not feel that boys have the benefit of enough mentorship or encouragement at a young age. I want them to feel they are valued and expected to excel, no matter what they may often hear, or see in mainstream media.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Tyler is working on his next adventure in his book series. He is taking pictures for his first coloring book. I am transcribing another story that he told me that he wants to publish. After he figures out the ending, his first draft will be complete.

BPM: Which would you rather do: Never write another story or never read another book?
I would rather not read another book.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Readers can discover more about Tyler by visiting Kid Time Enterprises, LLC. Since he is a young boy, I handle his social media accounts.

Website: http://www.kidtimeenterprises.com
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/HonoraryCEO
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidtimeenterprises
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kidtimeenterprises

 

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Intimate Conversation with Victoria A. Young

Intimate Conversation with Victoria A. Young

Winning an essay contest for Fannie Mae landed Victoria A. Young on Good Morning America, Spring 2000 under the maiden name: Victoria Martin. This brought to fruition that her writing can move people. She has written and produced three 2 hour plays and three short plays affording her the opportunity to refine her skills on Passion Whispers an Execution Book Series. She has also produced fashion shows, designed fashions, and choreographed dancing. Dancing ballet, jazz, African, and contemporary from the age of thirteen, blessed her to train God’s Mercy dancers to perform for Congressman Charlie Rangel. Her dancers were also given the opportunity to perform at all-paid-expense trips traveling out of New York State for church retreats.

BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write? 
I developed the love for the arts at the age of thirteen when I had a report due one Monday. I ran the streets with my friends disregarding report. Aware that my parents were going to scold me if I didn’t have the report completed, I stood home one Sunday ignoring all calls. And read a book in one day: Lorraine Hansberry, A Raisin in the Sun. The report took me about three hours to complete. From that point, I fell in love with poetry and how words can tell a beautiful story. Later on, I won an essay award and appeared on Good Morning America. From there, I began writing inspirational plays, combining dancing, poetry and fashion shows with a following of two hundred to seven hundred people, who are today, waiting for the next play. I’ve written three, two hour plays and three short plays.

BPM: Why do you write? 
Taking my characters through fire as they search for hope is a passion that boils my blood. I believe in writing oh my God and tainted stories, which close out with a bang, bringing a joyous spirit to the human experience with powerful messages. Life is about change. Without it, you’ll never grow. What drives me is the experiences I go through with my characters. I experience their emotions, heartbreaks, joy and full journey. It inspires me to make them stuggle through hell and make it to other side of heaven. Tears actually fall from my eyes when I end the story because I know the hell I brought them through was certainly fire.

BPM: How did you initially break into the publishing industry? 
I began writing Passion Whispers an Execution as a screenplay with the name Unpredictable. As I ventured into editing, editors told me that I write like a novelist; and, to write Unpredictable as a novel, then have someone adapt it into a screenplay. Since I’m open and highly appreciate criticism, I took their advice. Scouting the options of Self-Publishing and Traditional Publishing, I decided to Self-Publish until I’m acclimated with the publishing industry.

BPM: What genre is this book? 
Psychological and Action Thriller combined with Romance. I will write all my books in this genre due to the nature of my writing, always ending on an inspirational message the way I did with my plays.

BPM: Do you set out to educate, inspire, entertain or illuminate a particular subject? 
I aim to do it all. Subjects I write about are: forgiveness, trust, injustice, faith, self-esteem, cheating women and men or any subject that highlights the human experience. I use various cultures, the tainted, the unorthodox, and characters traveling through darkness in order to entertain. My plays were a mixed cast of cultures. I tend to go with the realism of our world. Real life is that way. Nor do we live in a world where perfection exists in any given country, state or neighborhood. By the time my stories end, a powerful theme explodes, resonating with various cultures.

BPM: Are any scenes from the books borrowed from your world or your experiences? 
Of course. Truth be told, working with New York City Police Department for 15 years inspired me to write about mental illness, which is the soul of Passion Whispers an Execution. I experienced Bipolar Depression and panic attacks after caring for my mom with breast cancer until God took her home. She didn’t want to die in the hospital or nursing home. My husband, son and siblings took turns caring for her at home. I went through three years of breast cancer symptoms with her. After death, I began having nightmares about her bones disintegrating, waking up screaming. Due to the jealousy and the close relationship I had with my uniform bosses, my civilian supervisor discriminated againt my mental illness. I filed a report with the Human Rights Division. From there, I resigned to write novels and to open my own business. Also, I grew up watching heroin addicts and wanted to use that as I thought it would be interesting since it’s trending now.

BPM: What hurdles did you have to overcome as a new author and business owner? 
I do own a business devoted to women in the line of beauty and inspiration. Trying to combine my many talents with my books became difficult. Another hurdle was I had a massive following when I wrote plays, but didn’t have the massive following with my books in the beginning, December 2014. I thought everyone liked to read. I soon found out, in many cultures, some didn’t know how to read, and others just are not readers. After a year of learning, I found out I had to find readers instead of people.

BPM: What is the most important quality a writer should have? 
Transform into each one of your characters from the beginning of a story to the end. Get your book edited. Our brain is unable to edit due to one part being creative, we won’t catch errors. And do your research. I was never addicted to drugs. I had to do plenty of research on heroin in order to bring my lead female character addiction to fruition. Reviews have been written about her because of my research. Yashani is a favorite.

BPM: How may our readers follow you online?
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VictoriaYoung58
VC Website: www.victoriayoungpassion.com 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/victoria.martinyoung.3
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/Book-Series-625256147595222/

Order Passion Whispers an Execution: Book 1 – Tease Me!
Series: Passion Whispers An Execution
Mystery & Thrillers > Erotic Suspense

 

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Intimate Conversation with D. Michele Jackson

Intimate Conversation with D. Michele Jackson

Donna M. Jackson is an African-American woman, a Philadelphia native, Tuskegee University alumna, and a Registered Nurse. Writing as D. Michele Jackson, she now adds writer, published, politically active nurse to her accolades. Her sociology studies at Tuskegee University and twenty-year nursing career enabled Donna to be prepared when the opportunity of Legal Nurse Consultant availed itself as she represented herself Pro Se in court. That experience allowed Donna to draft briefs during a historical time affording her a voice advocating for health. Donna submitted argument to Congress supporting amending the Nineteenth Amendment. Mission is to encourage, educate, and empower.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work?  
People who know me will always have a story of me singing in some off beat. I finally hit the perfect note with “JOY”. It is the story of a woman’s divorce experience that afforded her a voice for wellness.

As a defendant representing herself Pro Se, the main character finds herself presenting argument explaining why she should not become homeless post-divorce. Scheduled to be heard last by the presiding judge allowed the defendant to use her nursing assessment skills as she listened to a divorce case. Honing in on health after hearing the judge’s verdict, the defendant was able to make a nursing diagnosis. The judicial system dropped the gavel against well-being, and it becomes the defendants quest to fight not only for herself, but an ailing nation as well. The book is available on Nook and Kindle.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
The main character is the defendant. She takes us on a journey of the men she dated prior to marriage, and how each of the relationships offered facts for consideration in legal briefs forwarded to the Supreme Court of the state of origin, which led to the United States Supreme Court. It is the man she’s divorcing that allows a platform writing as a Legal Nurse Consultant. In hindsight, after failed relationships, the other characters enabled the defendant to form opinions on health. The once defendant, final brief is to Congress presenting argument supporting amending the Nineteenth Amendment. The experience could be considered the epitome of taking lemons and making lemon aid.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
The story started with me writing what I thought would be a good and entertaining read. Twice, I understood God to say, “That’s not the story.” I stopped writing. When I decided to begin writing again (after divorcing), the story had written itself. Now, that’s God!

Inspiration to me is always my Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. The women who spoke into my spirit. The smirk on the man I divorced face at my most vulnerable point in life. My battered heart. The possibilities that await as a result of sharing my story. The book was written at the perfect time as history is on my side.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
People often remember me as always wanting to be a nurse. What many don’t know, my motivation to go to nursing school was to have a career that would offer me a salary I could live off working part-time while attending law school. Later in my career I learned about Legal Nurse Consultants. The older I became, I had a peculiar interest in law. As difficult the journey has been, I find pleasure in the fact “JOY” took me to the halls of justice as a self-taught consultant practicing Constitutional Law.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven?  
“Amazing Grace: A Tribute to You, The Story of Us” is the first book of a trilogy. “JOY: Jesus on You” is the second book. Both “Amazing Grace” and “JOY” were divinely inspired. “Amazing Grace” is an introduction of me written in a memoir. I would have to say it is character driven. My second book comes across as plot-driven.

 “JOY” is the mark I hope to leave on society.  “JOY” is an extension of “Amazing Grace” in both stories you see a woman of faith. In “Amazing Grace” the woman is trying to find her way to proper positioning before God. In “JOY” the woman is being used by God to fulfill His plan and purpose in her life. Both are stories of change offering hope and liberation.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
As taught as a student attending Drexel University, School of Nursing, I presented to Congress as a politically active nurse advocating for health. I wrote to the 113th Congress, submitting bipartisan opportunity to holistically reform health and promote preventative care for: women, children, men, elderly, gay, poor, and rich. Globally, women are not progressing socially and economically as men. That fact is reflected in my own profession. “Men are more likely to be found in highly-paid nursing occupations. Among men and women in the same nursing occupations, men out earn women.” Retrieved January 28, 2016: http://blogs.census.gov/2013/02/25/men-in-nursing-occupations 
I advocated for health from every perspective impeding well-being.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
Currently I am staying with a friend and her family. I wrote the briefs from the homes of people in multiple states. Since divorce, my health suffered as a result of working understaffed as a nurse. Currently, my position has caused a reinjure. The home that I won fairly and was displaced from was my home office as well. I was working on a start-up business promoting health.

Prior to marriage, I was talking to my first boyfriend as he gave advice regarding my consideration of getting a second job. He advised, the answer is not getting a second job. You need to find one good job paying adequately. I divorced a man who suggested I should get a second job. My father concurred with the first advice received. The man I divorced signed papers allowing the business. I presented the document to the judge as one of my exhibits. He documented the proof submitted as “voluminous”.

I’m very humbled when it comes to my education, and my memoir explains why. My personality is one that tucks my intelligence away, and I prefer to exhibit my fun and loving characteristics when interacting with people. However, after being grossly disrespected through the divorce process, I had no problem with reaching into my pocket of knowledge, combined with endowed wisdom from God and show the dishonest rendering that God will use an unknown from the hood to address injustices.

I am grateful for my relationship with God. Without the Lord on my side, I would have crumbled and died.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I had to consider how strategic I was in approaching marriage. I asked what I thought to be all the right questions. Important to me was knowing if he was a believer of the resurrection of Christ. I was honest with who I was as a person, and that included the baggage I carried; my goals, ambitions, and desires as an individual and a wife. Although at this point, I only remember my discussions of me as an individual. I think that is because I never had a realistic opportunity of being a wife with the man I divorced, and unfortunately I learned that fact after becoming married.

My time as a single woman again has broadened my views on matrimony. A more telling line of questioning would have been related to can God trust you with my heart. Are you the man God has sent to relive me of the turmoil that lies within? Do you understand the importance of relationship with God and the role it plays as a husband who can cover his wife in prayer allowing her to become the help meet God created? Are you committed to the vows? I believe had these points been addressed, the issues that were discussed prior to marriage would have proven insignificant because we would have truly been on one accord. Subtly, I had been groomed for marriage my entire life; as excited I was about becoming engaged, I marveled at finally having my opportunity to love a man wholeheartedly as I have always known the holy state of matrimony is endearing to God.

I would have to say I learned how much God is on point in all that He does.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
The only “research” I had to do for the book was legal related. As a result, I was truly at the mercy of some people. I reached out to many people for help. I met kind and helpful law students. I met law students with sealed lips. I met honest attorneys. I met corrupt attorneys. I reached out to people who could care less. My favorite attorney was Attorney Johnny Cochran. After learning that I may have given the benefit of doubt too freely in many instances regarding attorneys, I never forwarded my request for help to his firm. I made that decision as a result of my experiences with requesting assistance. I didn’t want to risk having his name tarnished in my memory.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
First and foremost, to honor Jehovah. To offer the world His Son, Jesus – The coming Messiah. To reveal Him as a loving God that loves us all the same. Then, to honor the sacrifices of my mother. I also wanted to pay tribute to talented people, prominent figures, women who paved the way, and leaders who made a difference so that I would have opportunity to do the same for others. I’m proud to say I nailed my goals.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Inspired by the last ten years of my life which have been quite traumatic for me, I recall how this slippery slope began with me in a hospital with my mother waiting to go in the operating room. It was in that holding room I now understand that a promise for everlasting life was initiated and sealed with a kiss. I present as that vessel that offers what Abraham Maslow describes as fulfilling Self Actualization.

The Lipstick Movement is a vision of mine with a focus on upward mobility. Welcome to the Lipstick Blog Tour:  http://thelipstickmovement.com 

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Website: http://www.dmichelejackson.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DMicheleJackson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dmichelejackson
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chimingforchange
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/DMicheleJackson

 

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Intimate Conversation with Kristina Smith

Intimate Conversation with Kristina Smith

Kristina Smith has been writing since she could hold a pencil. She has a Bachelor’s in English Literature from the University of Houston-Downtown and a Master’s Degree from Walden University. She lives in Houston, TX where she teaches children to strive for excellence, and foster a love for creativity. When not writing or teaching, she spends her free time with family, friends, and nature, as well as traveling around the world exploring new cultures. Her love of music and quirky sense of humor is prevalent throughout her debut novel: Caught Up.

She describes Caught Up as more of a journey than a novel, a story where the characters become part of your life and you can’t help but to fall in love with them. There are life lessons of love, forgiveness, support, and faith sprinkled throughout, but mostly the book is just what it should be; something to get lost inside of. It’s the book you read by the pool, on the beach, curled up on the couch under your favorite blanket. With everything moving at such a fast pace these days, it’s good practice to take a break and let your soul be entertained by characters that become family!

BPM: When did you first get the inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing?
My third grade teacher used to make us use our spelling words in a story and when she wasn’t correcting my behavior, she would encourage my writing. I figured out that writing was not only fun for me, but a way to channel my energy, deal with issues, and make real life more exciting and at times, livable.

BPM: Tell us about your passion for writing. What drives you?
My passion for writing comes from blasting real life situation into entertaining stories, sometimes writing people as I see their alter egos or what they might do when put in tight situations. The passion is in pouring your mind out on paper and what drives me is seeing the reader feel all of the emotions that they get out of each character; be it laughing until your side hurts, tearing up because they have been through something similar, getting heated by a love scene, or connecting with a character because they see some of themselves or know someone like them.

BPM: Can you share a little of your book with us and introduce the book and characters?
The story is built around the relationship of four women who have grown up together since childhood and how life and real world challenges push in to threaten not only their individual sanities, but their friendships with each other. Kennedy is supposed to be written as the Alpha female/mother hen of the group, but finds out that she needs the rest of them to keep her together. Michalah is Kennedy’s baby sister who does and says what she wants, and is more than protective of her sister. Tia and Jordan are friends with both women and while they don’t admit it, look to Kennedy for guidance and sometimes approval.

All four of them have voices in the book as well as the two husbands; Preston with Kennedy, and Maxwell with Jordan. While Preston seems to be lost without Kennedy, his best friend Maxwell is seemingly the perfect catch. Though each make mistakes, they all mean well and will have to depend on God and each other for what is coming for them.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing this book?
I learned a lot about myself through each character, and more so that no matter who I thought each character should have been; they all took on their own persona and sort of told me what to write about them. I learned that I am more sensitive than I thought I was to certain human conditions. Also Kennedy’s character became more of a problem for me to write because her experiences hit close to home on some levels in my life, even now.

BPM: Are there any scenes borrowed from your world or your experiences?
All four women are loosely based off of myself, my sister, and two of my friends. Preston is based on a mistake that Thank God I did not make (yes I am laughing here), and Maxwell is just the guy that I mashed together from the conversations of what my friends considered “The One”. The situations they are put in are fictional (mostly), but the way each character would have handled the circumstance is maybe spot on? There are some surprise supporting characters.

BPM: What advice would you give your younger self?
I would go back and tell her about what is going on in my life now and remind her to hold on to that childlike faith that I had as a young girl who believed that anything is possible with God, belief, prayer, and hard work. I would also tell her to learn how to be still sometimes and watch the wonders of faith at work and be thankful for everything; the lessons and the blessings! I would tell her to enjoy life, stay her eccentric self and start traveling a lot earlier, and keep leaping! My mom actually thought that I was going to end up living in the rainforest!

BPM: What was your primary quest in publishing this book? Why now?
This book sat on the shelf for years as a passion project. I let a few friends read it and after every chapter made my sister listen to me think out loud about it; all agreed that it was something that needed to be published. After rereading this story and my other writings I began to see myself as a writer and one day a published writer. A few years later I became friends with an individual who had a drive for their dream that I recognized in my old self and took the leap to have it publish and ended up doing it myself. Funny how people come into your life and inspire just by being themselves for that one moment. (This will one day be another book)

BPM: What are a few things different about your book?
There are two key differences I feel that makes this story different. The first is that I didn’t write it in any particular genre style, which becomes difficult when categorizing, because it has all the elements that I like to read. There are parts that are romantic, hilarious, action packed, heartwarming and heartbreaking, and a bit of suspense. The only theme that carries throughout the story is love and what it makes us humans do.

The second difference is what I consider my writing soundtrack. For each section when a new character is about to speak, you’ll notice a song at the beginning. Sometimes it sets up the section, and sometimes it is what I was feeling at the moment I was writing. Music (listening) is a huge part of me when I write and the songs are multi genre as well.

Order Caught Up by Kristina Smith 
Available on BN, iBooks and Amazon
314 Pages > Kindle eBook > Romance
Link: https://amzn.com/B00R1PINS8  

 

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Intimate Conversation with Sharon C. Cooper

Intimate Conversation with Sharon C. Cooper

Award-winning and bestselling author, Sharon C. Cooper, is a romance-a-holic loving anything that involves romance with a happily-ever-after, whether in books, movies, or real life. Sharon writes contemporary romance, as well as romantic suspense and enjoys rainy days, carpet picnics, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. She’s been nominated for numerous awards and is the recipient of an Emma Award for Romantic Suspense of the Year 2015 (Truth or Consequences), Emma Award – Interracial Romance of the Year 2015 (All You’ll Ever Need), and BRAB (book club) Award -Breakout Author of the Year 2014. To read more about Sharon and her novels, visit http://www.sharoncooper.net

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Available on Nook and Kindle?
My current work, SEDUCING THE BOSS LADY, is about a woman, Peyton Jenkins, from a very large family who has been unlucky in love and is afraid of getting hurt again. She runs the family business, Jenkins & Sons Construction, and her job is her whole life. But her family wants her to get out and find her joy again. When Peyton meets Michael, it’s definitely not love at first site, but he chips away at the guard she’s had over her heart. Michael is a bad-boy, private investigator who is good-looking, charming, and has a great sense of humor. Peyton soon falls for him, but their individual pasts come back to haunt them and together they work to leave the past in the past, but not without a few bumps along the way.

SEDUCING THE BOSS LADY is centered around trust, forgiveness and family. The story is available on Kindle, Nook, ARe, Smashwords, as well as Kobo.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special? 
I absolutely loved writing the main characters in this story. When Peyton Jenkins & Michael Cutter first meet, they were amused as well as irritated by each other. Both saw the other person as being their polar opposite, but soon realized they had more in common than they first thought. They are special to me because they are both just what the other needs. For Peyton, Michael makes her want to live out some of her fantasies and live on the wild side if only for a little while. For Michael, Peyton shows unconditional love despite his past (which is a little shady). Together they are a fun-loving couple.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
This story is book five in one of my most popular book series – the Jenkins Family Series. I was inspired to write the story because so many women who are divorced or have had a bad break ups, are often shy about getting back into the dating game. With the help her family, Peyton Jenkins slowly lowers her guard and opens to the idea of finding love again.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I love books that are a part of a series, especially when they are a family series. What I enjoyed most about writing this story was the banter between the couple. Their personalities are opposites, but as they get to know each other, they realize how perfect they are for each other.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? 
My ideas come from: my over active imagination, television, newspapers, and sometimes magazine articles. This particular story has elements around self-growth, family dynamics and moving on from hurt. My contemporary romances are more character driven, whereas my romantic suspense tend to be more plot driven. I enjoy writing both character and plot driven.

BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
When writing this book, I mainly wanted to create a body of work that was both entertaining and eye opening about a few topics. I think I accomplished both and I feel that readers will enjoy the light read.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
I have a number of projects in the works. I’m currently working on two book series coming soon – Jenkins & Sons Construction and Atlanta’s Finest. I’m also working on a fun project with two of my author friends that’s coming at the end of the summer. Readers can keep up with the progress of that project, as well as my two new series by joining my mailing list. I’ll be sharing a few sneak peeks over the next few months. To join my mailing list – http://bit.ly/1Sih6ol

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
Find Sharon online:
Website: http://sharoncooper.net
Mailing list: http://bit.ly/1Sih6ol
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/Sharon_Cooper1
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sharonccooper/
Subscribe to her blog: http://sharonccooper.wordpress.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorSharonCCooper21 
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5823574.Sharon_C_Cooper

 

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Intimate Conversation with Dr. Eric Quarles

Intimate Conversation with Dr. Eric Quarles

The difference between kids who are motivated and those who are not, is merely placing them in the midst of positive influencers. Dr. Quarles brings a wealth of experience serving in the law enforcement community for the past 18 years. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice, a Master of Science in Administration degree in Leadership, and a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration.

Dr. Eric Quarles has a unique insight into the challenges faced by young children and a desire to make a difference in the community. The Officer Goodman and Friends series is an example of Dr. Quarles’ effort to bridge the gap between the young children and law enforcement agencies.

He resides in Atlanta, Georgia and is a Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Available on Nook and Kindle?
EQ: The Stories of Officer Goodman and Friends is the first installment of a series of eight books. I am really excited about the story lines that will be presented in the series. These books discuss real life challenges that young children confront in today’s society. Because it is such a prevalent issue, I feel it is important for children to be able to create a voice and understand the world they are experiencing. Currently, police issues are the topic of numerous conversations and young children are formulating their own opinions. I’m hopeful that I have created a platform for children, parents, and police to begin building a healthy line of communication.

Unfortunately, the first book isn’t available on Nook or Kindle. I am working to make the remainder of the series available electronically.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special? 
EQ: Officer Goodman is the main character in all of the stories. He is a typical police officer in Exceptional City, USA. He meets a diverse group of children and together, they address the issues in the community. There are five kids in total and each has his/her own main storyline with Officer Goodman.

Chase- Is an Honor Roll student at Achievement Academy. Science is his favorite subject and he likes to practice his junior detective skills.

Ethan- Participates in many sports at Achievement Academy. Biology is his favorite subject and he enjoys skateboarding.

Junjie- Attends Achievement where he can often be found in the computer lab surfing the web.

Depa-Is a social studies fanatic. She enjoys helping others and volunteering at the local animal shelter.

Maia- Is an Honor Roll student at Achievement Academy. She is a huge history fan and spending time in the library.

The passion behind both the stories and the individual characters is to bring light to issues that children in this age range mayencounter. I feel it is important for a police officer and children to take this journey together. Each story also ends with a life lesson for all parties involved. The end goal, however, is to begin establishing trust on both ends.

BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
EQ: As a former police officer and father myself, I noticed that there appeared to be a gap in age-appropriate reading material that offered insight into the current environment. These books are not just focused on the relationship between police and citizens. They also discuss issues of bullying, prejudices, internet usage, improper touching, and same sex marriage. Again, I wanted to provide a platform based on transparency while also encouraging open communication from our children. It is important for young children to have a concept of the world they live in and knowledge on how to coexist within that world. To no surprise, young children are much more advanced than we give them credit for.

Why now? I have always wanted to write books and I discovered my passion for writing during the dissertation phase of my PhD program. Some other works I am currently working on include self-help books for adults, and identifying the interlink between social media and teenagers.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book? 
EQ: Wow. This is going to sound weird but I am a process type of guy. The journey was the most fulfilling part of writing this book. The book started as an idea in my head and then I started to put it down on paper. I then started drawing stick people and mentally developing images of my characters. I had to find an artist to help me bring my vision to reality. Once I saw the final product, to me it felt like a dream. It was much more than my stick people and scribbled notes. While the business portion of developing this book was a bit of a headache, the learning experience I gained was well worth it. Not only did I have to create a company, but essentially, I became my own business. Do this really made me appreciate the process that much more. In fact, this experience has led me pursue other business ventures.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven?  
EQ: Good question. Most of my ideas come from past experiences as a city police officer. Many of the stories derive from cases that I have investigated and had a specific opinion and/or thought process on. I then added a little twist on them to be able to offer a perspective that children could understand. Oftentimes, I think we overlook the fact that they are developing an understanding of the world they are seeing and experiencing. Thus, I wanted to design a series of books just for them to address the issues they may confront.

Yes, the books are plot-driven based on my years of experience as a police officer. From those experiences, I was able to draw key things from them to be able to develop a plot for each one of the characters.

BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.
EQ: I have a diverse cast of characters and I wanted to make sure to include all ethnic populations in the series because that is an accurate picture of our current society. Again, coming from a law enforcement background and being part of many research studies, I realized that other populations of people have issues with police, not just African Americans. At some point, we all need to come together to overcome issues. There is not one population over the other.

The series of books will discuss issues that I have not seen in children’s books, some of which may be considered “tongue and cheek”. For example, I have worked part time as a school police officer and discovered it was easier working the streets. Children have issues that we as adults think they are adjusting well to (i.e., a new school). In actuality, they may be strugglingwith this and may attempt to change faces to make their parents happy. Unfortunately, they may not have the mental fortitude to overcome the issue. Thus, future books will discuss interracial relationships, same sex marriage, racial issues, bullying, internet usage, and improper touching.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, spiritual practice or journey?
EQ: The first book in the series “The Misunderstanding” is relevant to the current issue with police officers and the community. There is a lack of communication and understanding by both parties. When there is a disconnect between citizens and police there will almost always be an internal conflict. The key now is to establish a new forum for all parties to express their issues with the conflicting party. Most teenagers and adults have their opinion of police which may or may not change. I feel it is important to change the relationship and mindset of children since they have yet to begin to navigate their own decision making in life.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
EQ: Creating this book has taught me that I have an entrepreneur spirit; it provided an awareness that I wasn’t sure I had. I also realized the direction I want to take this project and other projects that I am releasing in the future. I really want to develop “Officer Goodman and Friends” into an enterprise. There has to be a lot of dedication to make any project successful.

BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
EQ: The most amazing people I met developing my book were the artists. I had to interview and meet several artists before I settled for the individual that ultimately illustrated the book. It was incredible to hear and see some of the sample scenes they created. The artist I eventually ended up hiring, Mr. Barry Duperon, brought my scenes and characters to life by using various angles, character expressions, background scenes, all while incorporating his overall vision for the product.

BPM: What were the goals and intentions in writing this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them? 
EQ: The overall goal and intention of the current book and upcoming books is to build trust between police officers and children. The purpose of the book is to bring awareness to issues that children may encounter as well as begin to create a dialogue with parents. Thus far, I have received quite a trail of positive feedback regarding the first book – most of which give praise to addressing the current issues of this political environment. 

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present? 
EQ: I am working on a three part series of self help book for law enforcement officers: (1) Police need help too (2) Understanding the Police & (3) Policing while black. I hope to have release dates available soon.

I also have a nonprofit mentoring program for young men ages 13-18, the Progressive Male Enrichment Program. This program is designed to equip young men with proper decision making skills and to begin providing tools to assist in navigating their way through adulthood.

I am also in the process of creating a podcast to discuss criminal justice issues in a forum manner. This one is still in the development phase as I am still in the planning and figuring out the best way to achieve overall goals.

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work? 
The Stories of Officer Goodman and Friends (The Misunderstanding) (Volume 1)
Link: https://amzn.com/1519753500

I have several social media outlets.
Twitter: @Dr_Eric_Quarles
IG: Officer_goodman_and_friends
Contact: contact@officergoodmanandfriends.com
FaceBook: The Stories of Officer Goodman and Friends
Officer Goodman and Friends website: http://officergoodmanandfriends.com
Progressive Male Enrichment Program website: http://www.progressivemaleprogram.com

 

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