Monday, May 31, 2010

Featured Author: Deana Murphy


You may know her as a featured design expert on HGTV, Fine Living, in O at Home Magazine, or as the finest designer of Greater Philadelphia, or maybe you've heard of her inclusion in New York Metropolitan’s Who’s Who, or have seen her work in several signature magazines, or know her as co-author of Victorious Living for Women, or as magna cum laude honoree in Interior Architecture and Design, or know she’s earning a doctorate in Theology.

What you may not know about Deana Murphy, however, several years ago God gave her a creative comparison of designing the places where we live to designing the places of our heart. She traced design back to the Bible and discovered the answers she was seeking.

Today, Deana has combined her passion for design and writing with her passion for the Bible. As a result, the Designing for the King book is now a reality. It was voted the 2010 best book of the year by Empowering Everyday Women Magazine’s team, the #1 on-line urban niche magazine.

In step with her mission to educate, elevate, and encourage, in 2009 she founded the Designing for Success Institute helping people to design their lives from the inside out. An inspirational speaker and lifestyle coach, her knowledge of her subject is thorough and her expression is passionate.


How did you start out your writing career?

As long as I can remember I’ve enjoyed expressing by writing, from poetry to short stories. It was just something inside of me urging me on. I’ve always been a note taker and writing everything down is very important. When the urge to write a book happened, I knew I had to do it.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned there was more inside of me than I ever dreamed. I realized when a dream is on the inside, you have to keep feeding it so it can remain alive. This book was one of my biggest life’s projects of 5 years to pen and research and revelation were the most important contributing factors.

Have you had a "Wow" moment since you have been an author? What made it a "Wow" moment for you?

Oh yes, I had a WOW moment. An unexpected one at that. When I received word from Dianna Hobbs, founder and publisher of Empowering Everyday Women magazine that, inspite of the hundreds of books that her committee had read, mine stood out on top. I was Wowed with the honor of 2010 best book of the year award! What made it a WOW for me is I didn’t know I was being considered, nor did I know such an award existed.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

I want people to know that the home is a sacred place. What we do there is important to God and is as much a part of its décor as the candlesticks and the wallpaper. I want people to know that home décor is not only the aesthetics that we can see. Home décor also includes our attitudes, character, lifestyle, thoughts etc., which blankets the environment with either a positive or negative atmosphere. Therefore, a SYSTEM must be in place to make the home a peaceful habitation.

What type of marketing has worked well for you?

Social media and word of mouth.
Public speaking has also been effective.

If you had the opportunity to talk with three writers, who would you choose and why?

1. My question to Mark Victor Hansen would be, “How I can create wealth through writing?”
2. My question to Joyce Meyer would be, “Where do you find your topics and how do you turn them into books so quickly?”
3. My question to Bishop T.D. Jakes would be, “How do you write from a Christian perspective and are able to cross over into other markets so well?”

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

I wish I’d known about the budgeting, marketing and self-publishing process prior to this point. I was a novice at publishing. I didn’t know that how much money I invest in marketing the book tells me how much time I will need to invest. And how much of each I can invest controls how many books I sell. Although I had a publisher, I invested in them instead of them investing in me.

If you are a mother, what is your favorite Mother’s Day moment?

Yes I am a mother and I can remember when my daughter wrote to me a long letter one Mother’s Day sharing how she could still hear my voice directing her down life’s path. And though she didn’t follow some of those directions, she said that in the midst of her disobedience, I never once said to her, “I told you so.” Because that endearingly affected her life it sparked a sweet touched in my heart. It was like seeing the fruit of your labor.

If you could visit any place in the world where would you travel to?

Probably Cape Town, South Africa. This beautiful town has been labeled “heaven on earth” with small roads surrounded by huge mountains, showing how marvelous and dominating nature can actually be.

What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?

There is power in knowing, and writing is the prominent way to get your message to the masses. I believe writing is an outward extension of me, my creativity. We all have an inborn creative nature and a book is in each one of us.

What was the best advice you’d ever gotten about the publishing industry? The worst?

The best advice I’ve gotten is promoting the book at least six months prior to its release.

The worst advice I’ve gotten is gee your book is great and everyone will want a copy!

Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?

Do write early in the morning when you are fresh. Don’t write for a perceived audience that may not be there when the book is published.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

Find an author that I like and copy their format to tell my own story. I’ve learned to write, coordinate elements and design spaces by copying the masters.

Our theme for this month is BOOK READERS. Name your top five favorite books of all time.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill; The Eye of the Needle by Ken Follet; Walk with God by Gloria Copeland; The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren and Reposition Yourself by T.D. Jakes.

Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?

Yes. I’m reminded of how our lives sometimes can seem to slip into autopilot mode as the best within us are hidden from view while simply doing the routine things for the sake of just doing life…competing for attention, recognition or acceptance. My next book, Resurrect Your Life, will show readers how to take their destiny off autopilot and put it in good hands – their own.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

Readers can get in touch with me via email at dm@deanamurphy.com or publicity@deanamurphy.com

They can visit me at http://designingfortheking.com


Designing for the King: From Chaos to Order by Designing Within

This thought-provoking book delves into the heart and home of the Christian family. Chronicling the lives of the Brumfield and Taylors, Deana addresses their desperate need to work the Designing Within S.Y.S.T.E.M. Shaping Your Spirit to Eliminate the Mess to attack, eliminate, and avoid chaos through the process of biblical guidance making home-living peaceful and secure for everyone.

Designing for the King: From Chaos to Order by Designing Within outlines twelve attitudes necessary for being successful when using the S.Y.S.T.E.M on the journey from chaos to order. These include: be candid, be receptive, be diligent, be loving, be disciplined, be focused, be patient, be encouraged, be alert, be persistent, be humble and be thankful.

Can Christians integrate their faith into the elements of home design? How is the heart parallel to how we live at home? How can home design bring families closer together? Is your home environment chaotic and dysfunctional? Designing for the King brings insight and answers to questions like these.

Deana shows how readers can create beautiful, functional rooms that please every user, from spouses to children, getting rid of chaos and promoting peace using biblical principles. With design directions, solutions, and meditations, Deana’s book covers all design ground with this eye-opening process of Designing for the King.

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Friday, May 28, 2010

Chapter Excerpt: Chesapeake Weddings



Chesapeake Weddings
by Cecelia Dowdy

Christian Romance
Barbour Books
ISBN-10:1602608024
ISBN-13:978-1602608023


Relax along Maryland 's Chesapeake Bay with three stories about strong African-American women who face upheaval in their lives.

John French is an agnostic. When he's hired to tutor a blind child, he falls for the kid's beautiful aunt, Monica Crawford. As he educates Monica's nephew, problems arise. Monica, a Christian, shares deep feelings for John. However, she can't be unequally yoked with a non-believer. Will John accept the Lord?

When her dad dies, Emily struggles to save her dairy farm, until the day accountant Franklin Reese arrives. As he uncovers the disturbing truth about her farm's finances, he falls in love with Emily. However, Frank is an unsaved alcoholic. Will Frank's addiction and lack of faith keep them apart?

When Karen's fiancé disappears with embezzled church money, she re-locates to her hometown. She's stunned that handsome plumber/future pastor Keith Baxter is living next door. Keith is smitten with Karen, but wonders if she's still in love with her dishonest ex-fiancé. Haunted by his troubled past, Keith is unsure about pursuing Karen. Can they trust one another with their secrets?

Only God can heal the hurting hearts and repair the broken lives of these women.

1 chapter

Prologue


The loud banging at Monica Crawford's front door awakened her. Forcing herself out of bed, she glanced at the clock and saw it was two in the morning.

"I'm coming!"

She ran to the door. Looking through the peephole, Monica saw her little sister Gina smiling at her.

Her heart pounded as she opened the door, gripping the knob. "What are you doing here?" Playing an internal game of tug-of-war, she wondered if she should hug her sister or slam the door in her face. Humid heat rushed into the air-conditioned living room. She stared at Gina, still awaiting her response.

"It's nice to see you too, sister." Gina pursed her full, red-painted lips and motioned at the child standing beside her. "Go on in, Scotty."

Gina had brought her seven-year-old son with her. Dark shades hid his sightless eyes. "Aunt Monica!" he called.

Monica released a small cry as she dropped to her knees and embraced him. "I'm here, Scotty." Tears slid down her cheeks as she hugged the child. Since Gina had cut herself off from immediate family for the last two years, Monica had wondered when she would see Scotty again. "You remember me?" Her heart continued to pound as she stared at her nephew. His light, coffee-colored skin glowed.

"Yeah, I remember you. When mom said I was going to live here, I wanted to come so we could go to the beach in Ocean City."

Shocked, Monica stared at Gina who was rummaging through her purse. Gina pulled out a cigarette and lighter. Seconds later she was puffing away, gazing into the living room. "You got an ashtray?"

Monica silently prayed, hoping she wouldn't lose her temper. "Gina, you know I don't allow smoking in this house."

Gina shrugged. After a bit of coaxing, she dropped the cigarette on the top step and ground it beneath the heel of her shoe. "I need to talk to you about something."

Scotty entered the house and wandered through the room, ignoring the adults as he touched objects with his fingers. After Monica fed Scotty a snack and let him fall asleep in the guest bedroom, she confronted Gina.

"Where have you been for the last two years?"

Gina strutted around the living room in her tight jeans, her high heels making small imprints in the plush carpet. "I've been around. I was mad because Mom and Dad tried to get custody of Scotty, tried to take me to court and say I was an unfit mother."

Groaning, Monica plopped onto the couch, holding her head in her hands. "That's why you haven't been speaking to me or Mom and Dad for two years?" When Gina sat beside her, Monica took her sister's chin into her hand and looked into her eyes. "You know you were wrong. Mom and Dad tried to find you. They were worried about Scotty."

Jerking away, Gina placed a few inches between herself and Monica. "They might have cared about Scotty, but they didn't care about me." Gina swore under her breath and rummaged in her purse. Removing a mint, she popped it into her mouth.

"They were worried about you and Scotty," Monica explained. "You were living with that terrible man. He didn't work, and he was high on drugs. We didn't want anything to happen to the two of you."

Gina's lips curled into a bitter smirk. "Humph. Me and Scotty are just fine." She glanced up the stairs. "You saw him. Does he look neglected to you?"

She continued to stare at Gina, still not believing she was here to visit in the middle of the night. "What do you want? What did Scotty mean when he said he was coming here to live?"

Gina frowned as she toyed with the strap of her purse. "I want you to keep Scotty for me. Will you?"

Monica jerked back. "What? Why can't you take care of your own son? Did that crackhead you were living with finally go off the deep end?"

Gina shook her head. "No, we're not even together anymore. It's just that. . ." She paused, staring at the crystal vase of red roses adorning the coffee table. "I'm getting married."

Monica's heart skipped a beat. "Married?"

Gina nodded, her long minibraids moving with the motion of her head. "Yeah, his name is Randy, and he's outside now, waiting for me in the car."

Monica raised her eyebrows, suddenly suspicious. "Why didn't you bring him inside? Are you ashamed of him?"

Gina shook her head. "No. But we're in a hurry tonight, and I didn't want to waste time with formalities."

"You still haven't told me why you can't keep Scotty. Does your fiancé have a problem with having a blind child in his house?"

Gina scowled as she clutched her purse, her dark eyes darting around the room. "No, that's not it at all."

"Uh-huh, whatever you say." She could always sense when Gina was lying. Her body language said it all.

"Really, it's not Scotty's blindness that bothers Randy. It's just that-he's a trapeze artist in the National African-American Circus and they're traveling around constantly." Her dark eyes lit up as she talked about her fiancé. "This year they'll be going international. Can you imagine me traveling around the globe with Randy? We'll be going to Paris, London, Rome-all those fancy European places!" She grabbed Monica's arm. "We'd love to take Scotty, but we can't afford to hire a tutor for him to travel with us."

"You're going to marry some man and travel with a circus?!" Monica shook her head, wondering when her sister would grow up. At twenty-seven, she acted as if she were still a teenager. Since Monica was ten years older, she'd always been the responsible sibling, making sure Gina behaved herself.

Gina grabbed Monica's shoulder. "But I'm in love with him!" Her eyes slid over Monica as if assessing her. "You've never been in love? I think it's odd that you're thirty-seven and you never got married."

Monica closed her eyes for a brief second as thoughts of her single life filled her mind. Since her breakup with her serious boyfriend two years ago, she'd accepted that God wanted her to remain single, and she spent her free time at church in various ministries. She filled her time praising God and serving Him, and she had no regrets for the life she led. But whenever one of the church sisters announced an engagement, she couldn't stop the pang of envy that sliced through her.

Forcing the thoughts from her mind, she focused on Gina again. "This discussion is not about me. It's about you. You can't abandon Scotty. He loves you."

Gina turned away, as if ashamed of her actions. "I know he does, and I love him, too. But I really want things to work out with Randy, and it won't work with Scotty on the road with us. He needs special education since he's blind."

Her heart immediately went out to Scotty. She touched Gina's shoulder. "Scotty knows you're getting married?"

Gina nodded. "I didn't tell him how long I would be gone, but I told him I'd call and visit. Please do this for me." Her sister touched her arm, and her dark eyes pleaded with her. She opened her purse and gave Monica some papers. "I've already had the power of attorney papers signed and notarized so that you can take care of him." She pressed the papers into Monica's hand.

"How long will you be gone?" asked Monica.

"The power of attorney lasts for six months. Hopefully by then me and Randy will be more settled. I'm hoping after the world tour he'll leave the circus and find a regular job."

Monica frowned, still clutching the legal documents.

"Please do this for me, Monica," she pleaded again.

She reluctantly nodded. If she didn't take care of Scotty, she didn't know who would.

Websites: www.ceceliadowdy.com

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Wednesday, May 26, 2010

SORMAG's Inspiration May - Brenda Jackson


Brenda is a die-"heart" romantic who married her childhood sweetheart 37 years ago and still proudly wears the "going steady" ring he gave her when she was 15. Because she began believing very early in the power of love and romance, she can't help but write stories with happy endings. She is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of more than 70 romance novels and looks forward to increasing that number. She and her husband live in the city where they were born, Jacksonville, Florida, and have two sons. She has a B.S. in business administration and recently retired after thirty-seven years from a management position with a major insurance company.

She loves to weave love stories and it is the highlight of her day. She and her husband spend time together traveling and discovering romantic places she could use as settings in her books.


Hidden Pleasures

All she has to do is be his lover for a week…

And when the man is gorgeous Galen Steele, what woman could possibly say no?

Brittany Thrasher has her own hidden motives for accepting Galen's proposal. Only the savvy businesswoman draws the line at actually falling for the sexy playboy. Even if he is the incredible lover of her most taboo fantasies….

The moment their paths crossed again at an auction, Galen knew Brittany was special. If she wants the house he just won so badly, how far is she willing to go to get it? That's when the Phoenix entrepreneur makes her an offer he fully expects her to refuse.

But once their passion heats up, the bidding really begins. And Galen will uncover Brittany's secret. Because this determined man of Steele isn't about to let the woman of his dreams get away….


Thank you Brenda for helping inspire SORMAG's creation.


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Friday, May 21, 2010

FEATURED AUTHOR: Beverly Taylor


Beverly Taylor was born and reared in the Midwest. She attended Jacksonville Theological Seminary and received her Bachelor of Religious Arts in Christian Psychology. She is the author of the teen novel, Foolish Virgin, and executive director of Chastity House and The ChasteKeepers program for teen girls and young adult female. She resides in metropolitan Atlanta and is a licensed counselor/therapist.



Desires of the Heart

What would you do if you were in jeopardy of losing your man to another woman? Carson and Katharine O’Connor seem on the surface to be perfect people—good looking, successful and God-fearing, but no one could accuse them of being too perfect to be believable.

Katharine spends her life building a home and family until the day Carson leaves her and allows a voluptuous, cunning school counselor, Cindy Lomax, and her disturbed pre-teen daughter, Deanna, to move in with him on a platonic basis—or so he thinks. Katharine must find her way beyond the past and will stop at nothing to rebuild her marriage, to include having breast and buttock implants in order to compete with Cindy’s striking figure in winning her husband back.

When tragedy strikes, Carson realizes it was pure love that guided him to Katharine. Is it too late for Carson to rectify his mistake with her? Will Cindy’s vengeful tactics prevail? Will Deanna’s criminal intention manifest itself? Will Katharine find the strength to forgive, despite the fiery darts that have been thrown at her?

Desires of the Heart is a story of lost and found faith, learning to love yourself, how one man’s selfish decisions affect and endanger those around him, and a stunning glimpse into how man looks on outward appearance but God looks on the heart.

How did you start out your writing career?


I was the editor of my high school’s newspaper.

What did you learn while writing this book?


That the characters take on their own form of reality. That is to say, when I want them to act one way, they carry it in a different direction.

Have you had a "Wow" moment since you have been an author? What made it a "Wow" moment for you?


I believe most authors experience a moment of open-mouthed wonder when (s)he sees the birth of that first manuscript in book format. I was no different.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?


To enlighten, inspire, entertain and educate readers that changing who you are on the outside does not remove who you are on the inside; in addition, to demonstrate how making selfish decisions can personally affect each member of the household in a detrimental way.

What type of marketing has worked well for you?


Word of mouth; speaking engagements, hopefully Sormag (smile).

If you had the opportunity to talk with three writers, who would you choose and why?


King David because he was a man after God’s own heart even with all his shortcomings. I’d like to sit down and have a talk with him about his beautiful, lyrical psalms. I’d like to ask St. Matthew about his encounters with Jesus and His mother, Mary. John the Revelator saw some fascinating things and I would like greater insight on the things to come. Let me add a fourth one if I may. I’d like to hear it from the apostle Paul’s own verbal words as to why he was so hard on women.

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?


The difficulties/competition in getting published. And everything in between.

If you are a mother, what is your favorite Mother’s Day moment?


When my children were elementary school aged, they prepared and served me breakfast in bed (how precious was that).

If you could visit any place in the world where would you travel to?


Egypt.

What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?


That writing English is difficult and tricky. For instance: (1) The bandage was wound around the wound. (2) The farm was used to produce produce. (3) He could lead if he would get the lead out. (4) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert. (5) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present. (6) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum. (7) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes. (8) I did not object to the object. (9) The insurance was invalid for the invalid. (10) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear. Get my drift?

What was the best advice you’d ever gotten about the publishing industry?


That the internet will provide advice and guidance to enable and empower every author considering any form of publishing. The worst? “Go with your gut feeling,” they’d say. Gut feeling never worked for me. Prayer, fasting and faith was my answer.

Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?


Do continue to pump out short stories—for short can grow into long. Don’t throw in the towel because the moment you do—you’re washed up.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?


Watch the NBA playoffs.

Our theme for this month is BOOK READERS. Name your top five favorite books of all time.


The King James Version of the Holy Bible; Beezus and Ramona; Pippi Longstocking (unfortunately, we didn’t have black children’s authors in our school/local library when I was a child); Black History/American History books; and other cultures’ history books.

Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?


Sweetest Day is a holiday primarily celebrated in the states of Ohio, Illinois and Michigan, and to these Midwesterners, it is more sacred than St. Valentine’s Day itself. This “show some love” holiday is celebrated on the third Saturday in the month of October. My Christian romance novel is titled: The Sweetest Day Ever.

Synopsis: Hero: Clayton Montgomery is a 32 year-old eleventh grade History teacher. He lost his faith in God because of the bad marriage his favorite sister endured, and he doesn’t desire to ever get it back again; that is, until he’s reacquainted with Joanna Edwards. He falls head-over-heels, but he’s afraid because she’s made it perfectly clear that she doesn’t want to date a man with children due to the family drama it brings. He recently discovers that he has a lovechild and he’s sure it will tear them apart if she ever finds out.

Heroine: Joanna Edwards is 30 years old. She’s an only child and an architect. She’s always been a strong Christian, but when her loving, trusting father is killed in a boating accident, and now she’s learned that he fathered a child outside his marital vows, she begins to doubt her faith. Before Joanna can move forward, she must overcome her obstacles in order to help Clayton conquer his. Her mother—the least one she expects—helps her to become triumphant over the heartache, pain, betrayal and deceit she encounters.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website):


beverly.taylor@hotmail.com; http://www.beverlytaylorbooks.com/.

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Thursday, May 20, 2010

Blog Tour: Life, In Spite of Me - Kristen Jane Anderson


Life, In Spite of Me
Extraordinary Hope After a Fatal Choice
Written by Kristen Jane Anderson
As told to Tricia Goyer

She wanted to die. God had other plans.

Why does my life have to be so painful?
What’s wrong with me?
It’s not going to get better.
It could all be over soon, and then I won’t hurt anymore.

Kristen Anderson thought she had the picture-perfect life until strokes of gray dimmed her outlook: three friends and her grandmother died within two years. Still reeling from these losses, she was raped by a friend she thought she could trust. She soon spiraled into a seemingly bottomless depression.

One January night, the seventeen-year-old decided she no longer wanted to deal with the emotional pain that smothered her. She lay down on a set of cold railroad tracks and waited for a freight train to send her to heaven…and peace.

But Kristen's story doesn’t end there.

In Life, In Spite of Me this remarkably joyful young woman shares the miracle of her survival, the agonizing aftermath of her failed suicide attempt, and the hope that has completely transformed her life, giving her a powerful purpose for living.

Her gripping story of finding joy against all odds provides a vivid and unforgettable reminder that life is a gift to be treasured.

Watch The Video
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com/2010/03/25/video-life-in-spite-of-me/


Leave your name and email for a chance to win a copy of Life In Spite of Me

This book was provided for review by the WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group





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Monday, May 17, 2010

FEATURED AUTHOR: Teresa Seals



Teresa Seals was born in Saint Louis, Missouri to high school sweethearts. Her parents knew the reality of struggle and together they were determined to see their only child strive for excellence. Through their hard work and determination, they guided Teresa on the path, which could only lead to success. Influences by peer pressure, Teresa became fascinated by the street life and switched paths. Caught up in the life, Teresa soon found out that nothing could substitute a sense of direction, especially when given the opportunity to reconsider your choices. Instead of being intimated by fears that she blamed on circumstance, Teresa found new desires through writing and, ultimately self-published her first novel, Taylor Made.


Strength, self-confidence and determination helped this mother of five pick up the pieces. Teresa put all of her inadequacies on the shelf and began to take a journey on a new path. Using her disappointments and setbacks as stepping stones, Teresa mentally prepared herself for future victories. Realizing that failure is simply staying down when you stumble or trip, Teresa’s style of writing materialized. With perseverance and self-reliance, Teresa obtained her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration in 2003 and later received her Master's in 2007.


How did you start out your writing career?

My little cousin was murdered during her sophomore year of high school. At fifteen she lost her life and at fifteen my life had just begun. When I looked back on my life I felt as though God had spared me and I felt that with this alone I had a story to tell.

What did you learn while writing this book?

While writing this book I learned about the process which comes after completing the story. These things which I learned all involve publishing process. I can compare this to giving birth, from the conception of the story to the birth of the novel.

Have you had a "Wow" moment since you have been an author? What made it a "Wow" moment for you?


Right now all my moments are “Wow” moments. I say that because I am still learning. But my first “Wow” moment is when I received the copy of my first novel, Taylor Made, I was so happy that I couldn’t believe that those typed papers was actually a book.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?


With this book I hope to accomplish as with any other book is to become a national best selling author as well as those that read it understands that your body is a temple not a door knob.

What type of marketing has worked well for you? Word of mouth is the best thing going for me now.

If you had the opportunity to talk with three writers, who would you choose and why?

Langston Hughes is first on my list. I would like to personal hear of his challenges, struggles, and how he felt towards the racial stereotypes. Then there would be Zora Neale Hurston. She experienced a couple of challenges in her personal life from relationships to a scandal. I would like to hear about how she coped with everything along with the racial struggles. I chose these two because of the gender difference and with a few obstacles authors face today I know it was more difficult during their time. I would like to know what motivated them to press forward. Of course, there is Maya Angelou just because of who she is.

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

How the critics feel about the urban fiction genre, the publishing process, and the energy that goes into promotion.

If you are mother, what is your favorite Mother’s Day moment?

My oldest child will be 20 this June so I have had some of the best hand crafted gifts one could imagine, but my favorite Mother’s Day moment was when I purchased my grandmother a stainless steel stove and refrigerator. When the man told her she had a deliver she told him he was at the wrong house because she had not made that type of purchase. I was so glad that the delivery man was persistent because she was not let him in.

If you could visit any place in the world where would you travel to?

I would like to visit Iceland and when I get there I can tell you why I wanted to visit.

What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?

This entire process takes time and dedication.

What was the best advice you’d ever gotten about the publishing industry? The worst?

It’s just like high school stay away from the gossipers!! I can’t say I have gotten some worst advice but useful information… know that everyone doesn’t want you to succeed.

Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?

Do let biased people review your work.

Don’t let friends and family tell you, “This is the best story I’ve every read!”

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I wasn’t going to share this but I have gotten to a place where I love me. With that said I know that there is only one judgment that matters and HE already knows. So here it goes…when I get into deep thought and worried about an issue I suck my thumb...WOW

Our theme for this month is BOOK READERS. Name your top five favorite books of all time.

The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah

Taylor Made By Teresa Seals

Do You by Russell Simmons

These were the first two books that I read that introduced me to the genre in which I write.

Gangsta by K’wan

A Hustler’s Wife by Nikki Turner


Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?

Tales From the Lou


Wanna know how we do it right therre? Well follow me to the city where decisions, deception, and dedication can deliberately lead to someone’s demise. A place where a long shot triggered by loyalty, liberation and love can make you create life, lose life or be facing life.

I welcome you to the LOU.

We can agree to disagree that no city or hood is any different from the other. It would only fall on the deaf ears of those playing the game of Get In Where You Fit In. Vultures only motivated by the type of hunger where if you can’t respect the grind, you can’t respect the mind.

Take a journey with those Tattooed Souls that are So St. Louis. Although they Neva Saw It Coming, they make sure to get it in By Any Means Necessary.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

teresaseals@gmail.com
www.redbudave.com
Teresa Seals
P.O. Box 6227
St. Louis, MO 63115

Washed Up

From big wheels to high heels Asia and Shante are the best of friends. Secrets, provocative trends and life changing events become the inspiration of Washed Up, their joint venture and the hottest clothing line in the Midwest. Looking at their hard knock life in the rearview mirror, together they are not going to stop until they reach the top.


Asia is on a mission to be the leading lady in every baller’s life that crosses her path. When a list she’s been keeping of her sexual conquests fall into the wrong hands will Asia pay dearly?

Classy and full of style, maintaining her rank as a five star chic, is one thing Shante takes pride in. Will she stop at nothing to maintain that spot even if it means using treachery with truth?


Deception is just as harmful as a deadly drug. An overdose of love, lies and secrets has a great expense and the ultimate price to pay can be death. Can either woman escape the devastating consequences of their actions? Someone is about to learn that telling secrets will leave you with the feeling of being Washed UP!

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Friday, May 14, 2010

FEATURED AUTHOR: MG Hardie



MG Hardie is a literary award winning author that has been featured on WBOK 1230 am, popular Back Talk/Black Talk segment. He has also been featured on Life Remixed Radio, HYPE Magazine Radio, Let’s Talk Honestly Weekly. MG has been interviewed by former Executive Director of KRS-One’s Temple of Hip Hop Sai Browne, George Cook winner of the Marguerite Press Award for best online talk show host in 2006 among others.

Hardie is regarded as one of the fresh new American minds for Real Political Analyst and Social Commentary. Hardie is known for his unique view on Race, Pop-Culture, and Hip-Hop. He is a public intellectual, visionary, and student of human nature. He advocates equality, social justice, and personal responsibility.
Motto "There's no such thing, as too much truth."


To find out more visit http://mghardie.com/


How did you start out your writing career?

I was groomed to be a pastor as a youth, but I really wanted to be a comedian. In High School I had this creative writing class I was basically fooling around in. One day my teacher told me that I had 5-minutes to turn in a poem or he would flunk me. That's how I began my career as a writer.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned quite a bit about the fear that people have about expressing their real opinion. I learned that men and women think that they are communicating with each other, but they really aren't. I was surprised to learn just how many of us don't know what real love is.

Have you had a "Wow" moment since you have been an author? What made it a "Wow" moment for you?

I have had many wow moments.

Aside from winning my literary awards my biggest wow moment was when I completed It Ain't Just The Size and I read the finished product. I was surprised at how much my writing has grown since my debut book. I was also surprised at how many topics I actually dealt with in my new book.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

I hope that people view literature in a fresh way. I want the reader to feel like they got $40 worth when they only spent $15. So as an author I had to cover a lot of bases and do some things that haven't been done before.

What type of marketing has worked well for you?

My books are not typical. It is always hard to get people to read something new and different. Social networking sites, reviews, blogs, and interviews this how the word gets out on my titles.

If you had the opportunity to talk with three writers, who would you choose and why?


I would choose Jack Karorac, James Joyce, and Maya Angelou. Because these authors have all taken enormous risks and have tackled some very tough topics. I would like to pick their brains on struggles and triumphs.

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

That the book business is sleepless, thankless and how hard-wired people are about not accepting completely new things.

What is your favorite Father’s Day moment?

Every time my children say “I love you”, those are my favorite moments.

If you could visit any place in the world where would you travel to?


I would like to spend a lot of time in Africa.

What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?

That writing is a process. Some authors take the easy process others take the difficult process.

What was the best advice you’d ever gotten about the publishing industry?

That being an author is a full time job, so keep grinding.

The worst?


Black people don't read.
Black people don't know politics
Black people don't... well, you get the picture.

Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?

Write every day and Don't be afraid to take risks.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I have a hell of a jump shot and I play a mean game of chess and dominoes.

Our theme for this month is BOOK READERS. Name your top five favorite books of all time.

I have so many favorites it is hard to just pick just 5 books. I'll just give you a range of enriching literature:

Ulysses by James Joyce
The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Animal Farm by George Orwell
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams
Cartoon History of the Universe 1 Vol. 1-7 by Larry Gonick

Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?

There is a lot more to come, but the next one is probably a science fiction book.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

http://mghardie.com/
You can also find me on myspace, facebook and youtube

It Ain't Just The Size

Princess has returned home after a 3-year absence to heal her heart. She now seems to have it all: a job and a house. She has everything except one thing, real love. Lance is no stranger to having the odds stacked against him. He is a hard working father, but he believes that he may never really find true love.

It Ain’t Just The Size shows Lance and Princess as they find their way to love. While these two passionate hearts begin their journey towards love many discussions and conflicts arise.

Many questions will be asked, many questions will be answered.

It Ain't Just The Size is what America needs to know, but doesn't want to hear.


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Thursday, May 13, 2010

BOOK INTRO: Chesapeake Weddings by Cecelia Dowdy



Chesapeake Weddings
by Cecelia Dowdy

Christian Romance
Barbour Books
ISBN-10:1602608024
ISBN-13:978-1602608023


Relax along Maryland 's Chesapeake Bay with three stories about strong African-American women who face upheaval in their lives.

John French is an agnostic. When he's hired to tutor a blind child, he falls for the kid's beautiful aunt, Monica Crawford. As he educates Monica's nephew, problems arise. Monica, a Christian, shares deep feelings for John. However, she can't be unequally yoked with a non-believer. Will John accept the Lord?

When her dad dies, Emily struggles to save her dairy farm, until the day accountant Franklin Reese arrives. As he uncovers the disturbing truth about her farm's finances, he falls in love with Emily. However, Frank is an unsaved alcoholic. Will Frank's addiction and lack of faith keep them apart?

When Karen's fiancé disappears with embezzled church money, she re-locates to her hometown. She's stunned that handsome plumber/future pastor Keith Baxter is living next door. Keith is smitten with Karen, but wonders if she's still in love with her dishonest ex-fiancé. Haunted by his troubled past, Keith is unsure about pursuing Karen. Can they trust one another with their secrets?

Only God can heal the hurting hearts and repair the broken lives of these women.

http://www.ceceliadowdy.com/

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Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Nothing is Too Hard for God Blog Tour with C. M. Jones


C. M. Jones is well on her way to becoming a household name. She has just completed her second publication, Nothing Is Too Hard for God, and launched a publishing company with her family, HortonJonesInc., that also mentors young writers. In addition she has begun to offer writing seminars and motivational speaking services. When asked about her endeavors, C. M. Jones has said that writing and mentoring is her ministry and she does it all to the glory of God.

Her debut novella, I Still Do, which was published through Author House but is now apart of the HortonJones, Inc. portfolio, sold thousands of copies in the United States and abroad. This Christian ficton writer indeed is no stranger to writing creative and inspiring stories. She began writing at the young age of eight years old while acting in her elementary school drama club. C. M. Jones has written countless poems, musicals and short stories that include themes of redemption, forgiveness and a real picture of the things that can happen in life, when you have faith in Jesus Christ.

Visit her online at http://www.cmjonestheauthor.com/
.

Tell us about Nothing Is Too Hard For God.


Nothing Is Too Hard For God is a stand-alone novel to my first novella, I Still Do. These books are about the friendship and lives of three ladies. Nothing Is Too Hard For God, specifically deals with a lot of the issues that the ladies have on a more personal level instead of everything being handled within the friendship the way things were done in, I Still Do. I wrote the book this way because truly when we have to handle the different issues that we have within ourselves we have to handle them on our own, no one else can do that for us. It’s funny, dramatic, encouraging, laugh-out-loud-funny and a testament to what God can do in our lives if we would only surrender “it” all to Him.

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

I truly believe that the situations that I write about are inspired by God especially in this book. I say that because, I do not know anyone that has really experienced these particular things that I wrote about but since the book has been on the market I have had so many people tell me at book signings and readings that they see themselves in the characters.

Who are your main character(s)?

My main characters are Deborah Lakes- A very successful attorney who can’t seem to stay out of trouble; Karen Martinez- A chemist turned stay- at- home wife who does not want to be controlled; and Leslie Walls- an extremely gifted child psychologist with unsolved issues from her childhood

Did you have a favorite character(s)? Who and why?

In the first book, I Still Do, Deborah was my favorite character because she is an attorney, something I have always dreamed of being but now Karen is my favorite. She is my new favorite character because she really stands up for herself in, Nothing Is Too Hard For God

Did you have to do quite a bit of research for this novel?

Only a little as I delved into Karen’s background, she is Hispanic and I am African American so, I had to do some research there.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading Nothing Is Too Hard For God.

What I hope that readers will discover/learn from this book is indicated in the title. No matter how dark your life may seem, there is always a way out, it may not be smooth or even happen the way you want it to but please know that there is no situation that we can get ourselves into that God can’t get us out of. Nothing Is

Too Hard For God!

Okay, a not-so-fun question. How important are reviews to you as a writer?

At this point in my writing career and probably always, reviews are my life line. It takes a lot of hard work, time and dedication to write books. So, after I am done and I feel like it’s ready to be sold, the first thing that I want to know is what people think, the good, the bad and the ugly. Well the ugly, you can send to me personally.  Honestly though, I want to know what the readers liked, did not like and why. This is my ministry and I want to know that I am reaching the people.

About the Book

Nothing Is Too Hard for God is the sequel to the novella I Still Do. These three best friends are back to take you on a journey through their past and into their future. This book is full of truth, faith and testaments to what God can do when we submit our lives to Him. Do you want to know how God brought Deborah through her haunted past and into His saving grace? Would you like to know why Damien was disloyal to Karen and if their marriage can really survive after his affair? Last, but not least, if you want to know how Leslie’s heart went from being as cold as stone to being full of love, then you must read Nothing is too hard for God. Just when you think you have it all figured out, this novel will take another turn.

C.M. Jones Shares an Excerpt from
Nothing is Too Hard For God






View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/NothingisTooHardforGod.


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Tuesday, May 11, 2010

COLUMN: Building Colorful Characters


Building Colorful Characters — Part 5

What is your first memory of your mother or that special woman who has been in your life from an early age? Which of her unique qualities paints your mind the most now whenever she taps your thoughts and spirit? Memories of our mother or that special lady linger with us, associated with her hair, hands, smell, clothing, speech, touch, looks, mannerisms, emotions, habits, mentality, education, skills, and so much more.

This month is dedicated to the memory and glory of the elements that represent the structure and being of a mother. Each time we celebrate mothers, we think of the many components that make up mothers and what makes them who and why they are. Whether the woman you remember as you read this has a mild or energetic personality, the one fact that we can surely state is that there are many “types” of mothers, some as human beings and others, as unique and colorful examples or models.
Adults often credit their success—or blame the lack thereof—on the type of upbringing and nurturing received by a mother. But what they’re also referring to is the person or components of the personality that influenced them. We become influenced as children by our mothers, and basically, the same applies as readers. We are affected, or influenced, by the mother aka storyline our characters are surrounded by or involved in. When readers are engaged in a story, they become involved with it—and this includes both the characters and their surroundings. Each of these components are guided by or ruled by the story, or as we’ll refer to today as the “literary mother”: her components, personality, character, habits, speech, looks, mentality etc. Each of them will make an impression on us, whether good or bad.

A writer can introduce great characters and have them dipped into the best of locations, but if the story, life, events, and challenges that they experience aren’t also real and colorful or mind-jarring to the reader, the engagement is lost and the marriage is not properly consummated. The mother—storyline—must be one that grabs the reader as well. Therefore, our stories have to live up to the same expectations that we have for our characters.

Just like human mothers, each story must own a unique personality (the plot, or foundation of your tale). Each story must own emotions—(which are the lessons and challenges presented in the tale). To name a few, the mannerisms and speech of the story are the style in which the tale is told; habits can be likened to the repetitive twists and turns; and chilling, dramatic, suspenseful, or romantic scenes may occur. The mentality and educational aspects of the mother aka story can be likened to the age level the tale is appealing to, or the viewpoint, morality, or religious thoughts the writer is seeking to portray or persuade within the story.
The story’s clothing can be said to be the time period and era the writer fashions for the tale. Skills of this mother can be the many buttons aka words or situations that pull at the readers’ emotions, or that beckons their thoughts, tickles their funny bones, or rubs their eyes to tears.

Each mother aka storyline must surround all of her characters with these components, raising them to either a level of maturity—which means the reader is brought to a pleasant and/or understandable ending, or a malnourished or unbelievable finish will occur, plunging the reader into disappointment or confusion.

Again, as with human mothers, a well written storyline or nurturing literary mother will leave the reader remembering the “smell” of her blossoms, feeling the cool of her night, sweating with the searing heat of her afternoon, hearing the clanging sounds of her church bells, the dazzle and shimmer of her table set with lavish foods and expensive china, cringing with each creak of the rickety steps of her haunted house or the creepiness from her damp, old, long-abandoned farmhouse. The mother will show as well as tell the fable.

Each mother, or story, has the responsibility to push each character and location she has birthed toward presenting its best through the hugs and exposure of her own colorful character.

Moreover, just like human mothers, there are many different types of stories. For instance, many mothers possess mild and calm demeanors, never raising their voices, yet maintaining a respectful and obedient household. A literary mother—story—can be an easygoing read with little drama or explosive action, yet it remains a captivating page-turner and true-to-life fable by engaging the readers with characters and events that are familiar and open to first, conflict, and later, change or revelations. The readers can recognize the challenges and look forward to seeing how the problems are solved and vindicated.

The mother/story in the process has:

1. Kissed you with curiosity through the gripping opening and introduction.

2. Hugged you with characters that take you by the hand into reality and believable reactions.

3. Stroked you with relatable problems/conflicts (the plot) through character drama and/or narrative—projected by personable accounts or flashbacks, or perhaps done creatively through a dream, etc.

4. Encouraged you to stimulate those thinking cells through yet more character drama and decision making. The reader tries to figure out what the “mother” will do next, or what will happen to her “children”—the characters.

5. Nurtured through solving the problems, exposing the lessons, and portraying the pros and cons of the situations projected.

Of course, every writer’s unique skills will showcase his or her mother/storyline in many different ways, illuminating colors and features different from other literary creators—all part of the true beauty of the craft.

However, we now know that vibrant characters and locations aren’t the only way to create an engaging and distinguished saga. The actual mother aka storyline must also be laced with the bells and whistles that tingle the fingers of our readers to continue to turn the pages, stimulate their minds, and remember the tale from its earliest personality to long after the story torches their hearts and spirits.
What colors do your literary mother bring to the characters that gather within her house?

Wordsmiths, remember, you can e-mail me with your creations, and I’ll post them here for all to meet and utilize. For your gifting, I’ll post a picture of your latest book and a link to your Web site.

Pens up! to building colorful characters the write way.


Rachel Berry has been gifted by our creator to be many things; on the list of these blessings are daughter, caregiver, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, best friend, aunt, published author & poet, motivational speaker, radio talk show host, mentor, columnist and community leader.

She has been a government employee for 24 years.

Rachel is the founder and president of Black Pearls United INC. (an African American sister-circle) which was founded in 2000.

Berry is also an alumni member of Toastmasters International where she has earned her CTM and has been awarded as Toastmaster of the Year.

Rachel is proudly promoting her books 'From The Heart And Heat Of Me.' and her novel ‘Family Pictures:’ the family saga of two women with too many secrets and the up and down relationships they have with those people they call family.

To arrange speaking engagements e-mail her at admin@blackpearlsunited.org. For book signings please e-mail her at rachelwrites2@yahoo.com. To preview and buy her books please visit her web site at
http://www.LuLu.com/RachelBerry & http://www.rachelberry.webs.com/

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Monday, May 10, 2010

Who Speaks to Your Heart Blog Tour with Stacy Hawkins Adams





Devotional Excerpt taken from Ch. 2 of Who Speaks To Your Heart?

In my early adulthood, I thought living by the “thou shall nots” in the Ten Commandments was the answer to salvation. As I’ve matured and experienced life’s highs and lows without being abandoned by God, I’m continually reminded that “The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it,” and that it is mine to be explored and appreciated, because God created it for all of his children, including me. That means we can walk this journey of faith hand in hand with God, with joy and an open heart, trusting that as we listen for his instructions and obey him when he speaks, he’ll tell us when to run, and where.

Esther must have longed for God to speak when the man who had raised her, her uncle Mordecai, came to her and insisted that she approach the king and save the Jews. Esther knew what had happened to the queen who preceded her. Vashti had made the king angry and lost her head.

Esther wasn’t willing to walk smack dab into a similar fate. But when Mordecai warned her that she might face death anyway if she didn’t try to save her people, she did what her uncle had trained her to do. She instructed Mordecai and every Jew in the city to fast and pray on her behalf. She too turned to God in prayer and fasted with her maids for three days.

Notice that after this period of dwelling with the Lord, Esther didn’t rise and immediately approach the king. God seems to have instructed her how best to soften the King’s heart. Esther made herself as beautiful as she could, then she went to the king and prayed that he would extend his golden scepter, giving her permission to approach him….

Put yourself in her place. What would you have done? Esther had to run this race before she felt ready, finally understanding that maybe, just maybe, God had put her in this place for this very reason. She was going to run with him holding her hand all the way.

Whatever stage of the race you’re in, slow down enough to see if God is ready to give you direction and move you into your purpose. Don’t rush the process; his timing is perfect.

If you are sprinting in your faithwalk instead of pacing yourself, maybe it’s time to slow down and wait for God to speak. If you’re jogging, maintain your steady pace but know that only when you’re paying attention will you see and hear what God has to say to you. If you’re walking, be patient. God is grooming you for your season and your time.

© Stacy Hawkins Adams. Excerpted from Who Speaks To Your Heart? Do not reprint or publish this excerpt without full attribution to the author or without express permission from the author or publisher, Zondervan.

About the Book

With insight, inspiration, and practical ideas in her new book—Who Speaks to Your Heart?—, author Stacy Hawkins Adams shows you and all women—regardless of the labels placed on you—that your best and most important title is the one given by God … chosen vessel.

“I wrestled with whether a God that I couldn’t see or touch would be willing to single me out from the millions of other people who wanted love, attention and help.”

To women all over the country, from all walks of life, this uncomfortable uncertainty is all too familiar. Now—for inspiration, for affirmation, for a divine connection—you have a new place to turn … to this authentic look at what it takes to pursue God with abandon, by acclaimed author Stacy Hawkins Adams.

Offering insight, inspiration, and practical ideas on how to connect more often and more deeply with God, Adams helps give you and women the world over the courage to go deeper and grow deeper in God’s word to hear Him more clearly. Women young and old will be empowered and renewed by Adams’ reminder that—regardless of the labels placed on you by society, your family, your friends, and even yourself—your best and most important title is the one given by God … chosen vessel.



About the Author


Stacy Hawkins Adams is a nationally-published, award-winning author and speaker. Her contemporary women’s fiction novels are filled with social themes and spiritual quests that take readers on journeys into their own souls.

She holds a degree in journalism and served as a newspaper reporter for more than a decade before turning her full attention to penning books, speaking professionally and writing freelance articles.

Stacy lives in a suburb of Richmond, Virginia with her husband and two young children. Visit Stacy online at http://stacyhawkinsadams.com/

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View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/WhoSpeaksToYourHeart
.


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Friday, May 07, 2010

WIN THIS BOOK - MAY



PUT ON YOUR CROWN

By Queen Latifah, Samantha Marshall


Modeled after Maria Shriver's Just Who Will You Be, Queen Latifah's goal with Put On Your Crown is to help young women build a strong sense of self-esteem. A US Dept. of Justice survey found that females ages 16-24 are more vulnerable to partner violence than any other group, almost triple the national average. Cases like Chris Brown's assault on pop star Rihanna showed an ugly side of adolescent life. However, Queen Latifah has always been a shining example of a woman happy with herself and unwilling to compromise to fit into the "hollywood ideal" of what a confident beautiful woman should look like.


WHAT’S REALLY HOOD

By Wahida Clark, Victor L. Martin, Bonta, Shawn Trump, LaShonda Teague


Life in the streets take on a whole new meaning in this urban anthology of "hood" tales compiled by New York Times bestselling author Wahida Clark

WHAT'S REALLY HOOD!

Black Is Blue by Victor L. Martin delves into the life of a corporate woman who falls in love with a thug and finds out just how easy it is to stray from the straight and narrow.

Eighteen and hungry Wiz's only addiction to drugs is the money it made. But Crystal changed all of that and shows him just how powerful a woman can be in The P is Free by LaShonda Teague.

In The Last Laugh by Bonta, Bobo, a member of the infamous Eight-Trey street gang, learns that gang life isn't all it's cracked up to be as "street wars" take on a whole new meaning.

Shawn "Jihad" Trump tells the story of loyalty, love and honor, when The Point Blank Mob is brought to its knees leaving the crew fighting for their lives and freedom in All for Nothing.

And New York Times bestselling author, Wahida Clark, introduces Nina, a woman tired of being disrespected by men who takes revenge to the ultimate level in Makin' Endz Meet.




CONGRATS TO OUR APRIL WINNERS

Priscilla Johnson
Rekaya Gibson
enyl

Send me your addresses ladies - sormag@yahoo.com




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Thursday, May 06, 2010

Love Found Me Blog Tour with Vanessa Richardson


"When a man’s ways please the LORD, He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him." (Proverbs 16:7)

Vanessa Richardson is an author, poet, and playwright. Vanessa has written several stage productions and have been blessed to perform them at various venues. Her stage productions includes: Someone To Love Me, Why Do Bad Things Happens To Good People?, Lord, I Don’t Understand, and The Fullness Of Time.

Vanessa wrote her freshman nonfiction inspirational novel titled, The Certain Ones. A spiritual impacting novel that inspires her readers to know that not everyone are called into greatness. Fact: Many can not handle the process that goes along with becoming great. Only the certain ones, who endures; can obtain destined greatness. She is currently working on the second installment of her, Inspirational Suspense Love Series titled, Love Lifted Me. Visit Vanessa online at vanessarichardson.net.

Vanessa, tell us about Love Found Me.

Love Found Me, is an inspirational suspense guaranteed to have readers guessing “who is who” as well as rooting for our hero and heroine to overcoming evil forces threatening their newly established relationship. Love Found Me, is wonderful story of unexpected love found (love of self, family, friends, and God) at the right time.

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

I did not prepare an outline for Love Found Me. The characters basically wrote themselves. I merely listened to the story they wanted to share with the world and scribed it as best as they wanted it told. I enjoyed the adventure they took me on. Some parts were more endearing than others, and at moments had me choking back tears.

Who are your main character(s)?

My main characters are women’s health advocate Sheila Lawson and Mike Montgomery. Sheila was not surrounded by loving family and friends. So it is hard to love or show love. Mike grew up in a loving family; he even married his high school love. Until an unexpected tragedy occur. Sheila and Michael both have past hurts; will there be a future for them or relationship?

Did you have a favorite character(s)? Who and why?

I would have to say all the characters are intriguing to me. I never knew what to expect from them. But the one most enduring is the child- character (I say not reveal who she is) has to be the most heart- touching for me.

Did you have to do quite a bit of research for this novel?

I did some research on domestic abuse. I was surprise upon reading what makes a woman return to their abuser. On the other hand--I was delighted to discover that there is help and support out there; for those who are seeking shelter from an abuser. The right step is to make “the step” get help, please. You are worth it.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading Love Found Me?

I want readers to take away from Love Found Me, is to love is to love yourself. Love is beautiful and comes in all shapes, sizes, and different ways. That the love of God; is a powerful reality and is the solution to anyone problems.

Okay, a not-so-fun question. How important are reviews to you as a writer?


I know reviews have its place in the literary world. I think reviews can be quite helpful and enlightening. I do not mind constructive reviews; but to attack the author is a bit extreme. I have not experienced this, but know other author’s who have. I admire their tenacity to continue on, donning their thick skin. Remember reviews are opinions and we all have one. Smile.

About the Book

Mike Montgomery once lived the American dream. Gainfully employed, beautiful home, and a wonderful loving wife. Growing up in a loving family whose faith was unbreakable was his source of strength. Mike’s faith would one day be shaken after losing the love of his life in an unexpected tragedy. Mike thought he would never love again until he meets Sheila Lawson. Everything about Sheila made him want to love again. Could he risk his heart again?

Sheila Lawson, a woman’s health advocate was strong and independent, yet something was missing in her life. Immersing herself in her work, she vowed off any relationships. Sheila would find her self-made decree shaken when she meets tall, dark, and handsome Mike Montgomery. There is an evil lurking in the shadows. Mike and Sheila will have to unite to overcome evil forces trying to keep them apart. Will their love be enough to see them through the testing of their faith?

Book Trailer





View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/LoveFoundMeBlogTour.







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Welcome To SORMAG's Blog

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I believe in promoting authors and their books. Let me introduce you and your books to online readers.

I'm also a happily married mother of three who's trying to break into the Christian writing field. The writing road can be rocky.

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Contact me at:lchwriter@gmail.com

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