Monday, January 31, 2011

FEATURED AUTHOR: Lena Joy Rose

I had a passion for unearthing history, since I was seven, growing up in the hinterlands of Jamaica. I would bury my mother's spoons only to dig them back up weeks later and pretend they were relics from the Arawak Indians. The digging soon stopped when I stumbled on earthworms.

Since my favorite genre for reading is anything historical: historical biographies, historical fiction and historical romance. I was moved to write "Escape to Falmouth." I believed marginalized people were under-represented in the historical romance genre and needed their own storylines.

Escape to Falmouth

When a feisty, Cherokee beauty and a strong-willed, male, runaway slave lock their destinies together in a headlong pursuit of freedom, they unleash forces that deny their liberty, threaten to destroy their love and propel them into dangerous exploits.

Displaced by a presidential edict in 1838, Awanessa, and her entire Cherokee tribe, must leave their homeland in the Southeast United States to march thousands of miles on the arduous Trail of Tears. Meanwhile, Awanessa wages a personal battle that leads her to rescue Jeremiah, a slave on the run, who is being attacked by trackers and bloodhounds. As the couple's lives intersect, they yearn to find their place in an intolerant world.

In a desperate race for survival, Awanessa and Jeremiah flee the Smoky Mountains to the Okenofee Swamps of Georgia with the Seminoles, and later, St. Augustine, Florida. By a twist of fate, they end up in post-emancipation Jamaica where they discover a new world of possibilities while confronting jealousy, mistrust, deception and obeah.

As they boldly stake a claim for their future, vengeance strikes, loyalties are put to the test, a life is perilously at risk and they wonder, what price will they have to pay for freedom?

Book Trailer



How did you start out your writing career?

I started out by reading. I read every book I could get my hands on. Then something strange happened: While I was reading I would start imagining different storylines and different endings from the original stories. This turned into daydreaming. It wasn't until I took a creative writing course in college that I entertained the thought of becoming a writer after getting tremendous feedback from my peers and teachers. I began writing short stories then decided I’d like to sprawl out into a novel.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned that writing the story is the easy part. It's the editing and rewriting that's the biggest hurdle. The good thing is that I enjoy the entire writing process -- warts and all.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

With a host of African Americans claiming Native American ancestry, I felt that this intersection of cultures has been overlooked and wanted to see a historical representation of this union in novels. I also wanted to write a novel that spanned the entire African diaspora, evoking African, American and Caribbean experiences.

Which character did you have the most fun writing about?

I loved them all but Jeremiah was especially enjoyable as I portrayed his strengths and foibles.

How do you keep motivated to write?

I schedule it in my calendar. When I don't feel inspired I just show up. Usually something happens when I show up for writing.

What aspect of writing do you love the best, and which do you hate the most?

I love when an idea grabs me and I get in the zone of writing. I don't like to wake up to a blank screen. So I try to leave something to start with for the next day -- even if it's crap.

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

1. To honor my writing time no matter what
2. To be around more creative, inspiring and supportive people
3. To delegate the tasks that sap my energy

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

DO: Write through the crap -- the good things will emerge
DON'T forget physical activity. There's a lot of brain work going on with writing that can deplete your energy. Start out your day with physical activity to pump oxygen to your brain.

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

That writing is as hard a work as any other job.

If you could be a character from any book you've read, who would you be?

The first character that pops in my mind is Atticus Finch from "To Kill A Mockingbird". He had such integrity, good morals and free from prejudice. I try to live by his creed: You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view…until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.”

When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I catch up on my reading, movies and plays. I also entertain family and friends and perform community activities. Travel is also on my list – of course to places with lots of history.

What do you do to interact with your readers?

I have a blog, Facebook and Twitter profiles as well as feedback forms on my website. I’m also in the process of scheduling book signings in Charlotte, NC, New York City, Toronto and Jamaica.

Our theme this month is Family Literacy. Do you do anything to promote family literacy?

Yes, a percentage of the book proceeds will help to promote reading at the elementary level in two targeted schools in Jamaica.

Oprah always asks, What do you know for sure?

I know for sure that I came into this world alone and I’m leaving it alone so I want to live my life in my own way that makes me happy.

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

It’s a sequel that encompasses the intersection of two turbulent times: The Morant Bay Rebellion in Jamaica and Reconstruction America.

How can readers get in contact with you?

lena@escapetofalmouth.com and http://www.escapetofalmouth.com/


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Friday, January 28, 2011

FEATURED AUTHOR: Samara King

Samara King began her literary journey at the age of twelve years old while sneaking to the back of the library and indulging in romance novels; soon after, she wrote her own! She has penned three novels and eleven novellas all within the multicultural erotic romance genre, as well as two poetry collections.

In 2010, Samara launched SK MINIs, her novella imprint to be headed by Samara King Books, her self-publishing company. Starting in February, Samara will be a columnist for From A Writer’s POV Magazine with her blog column, Characterology.

Her first poetry collection, The Ebony Kryptonite, will be followed by The Naked The Bare. She has been published by Cobblestone Press, Changeling Press, Loose Id, and Total-e-Bound to date.

Currently she is working on her next SK MINI project!



The Ebony Kryptonite

Poetry is the fusion of the heart, body and soul. The raw force of the spirit's delight, triumphs and tribulations. Journey with me…


“Shug like honey. And now I’s just like a bee.”


Celie, The Color Purple…

And so it is for me and poetry, inseparable from a time before my comprehension. I can’t tell you the precise time, minute or second in which words intertwined their potent web around me or when concept of prose and rhyme married, blending within it the very core of me.

What I can say is poetry is like air to my lungs, lyrics to a hot beat and within its textures and hues; I create the motley of my life, experiences, observations, and a mix of reality, fantasy and possibility.

I believe one of the most powerful legacies we as human beings leave behind when we are no longer will be our words. Their power can provide strength, inspiration and love. A legacy as described makes one richer than all the millionaires combined.



How did you start out your writing career?

I started pursuing my writing seriously back in 1997 but have been writing since the 8th grade.

What did you learn while writing this book?

A lot, The Ebony Kryptonite is a poetry collection, however, each poem tells a story directly from my life. I learned the exposure in such a way is good for the soul, especially from the feedback I’ve been receiving.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

I hope to reach other people – women - who are experiencing life challenges. The human spirit is a powerful force. Life likes to try and make us forget it. The Ebony Kryptonite has a strong sense of hope within it.

Which character did you have the most fun writing about?

Well, in this case I would be the character and so are those in my daily life or things I’ve observed. I think it was interesting as a whole to watch a story unfold within the verses of poetry.

How do you keep motivated to write?

This is a day to day thing, I know its stated that “you should write everyday” but my creative process truly adheres to other creative realms, such as music, designing, etc. I allow my muse to go where it pleases and each venue makes my writing stronger.

What aspect of writing do you love the best, and which do you hate the most?

I love creating characters and playing what if. You never know what you will end up with. I’m not sure there’s a particular aspect I hate. I do know that when I’m done with a piece, I hate to revisit it. My brain is already on the next adventure.

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

Building a brand takes a lot of patience. The writing journey changes and sometimes what you use to want no longer applies and that’s OK! Setting your own path is a gift and a curse – but I think in the end, I’d have it no other way!

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

Do hone your craft, always be in learning mode, it makes your writing voice stronger. Don’t let others dictate what your writing voice should be – kills creativity and your stride.

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

Writing is a mental process, it interweaves a lot of factors.

If you could be a character from any book you've read, who would you be?

I’d love to be any heroine in Brenda Jackson’s or Beverly Jenkins’ novels. Those heroes are divine. (I’ll stop smiling now.)

When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I spend time with my son, read, design, movies, dance and people watch.

What do you do to interact with your readers?

I will have interactive chats both on SamaraKing.com and SKMinis.com. Character Points is a monthly blog I do geared towards writers that focusing on the interesting ways of developing characters. Readers can often find me on Facebook for either Samara King or the SK MINIs Facebook fan page or Twitter.

Our theme this month is Family Literacy.

Do you do anything to promote family literacy? Yes, I love history so my bookshelf has tons of African American history books, my teenage son is currently reading up on African American Indians and has become quite enthralled with the different facts he’s learning.

Oprah always asks, What do you know for sure?

I know that I was blessed with the gift of word and it is my hope to continue to spread that gift as long as I live.

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

Readers may reach me via email at: ms_samara_king@yahoo.com, or visit my websites at: http://samaraking.com, http://www.samarakingbooks.com/, http://www.skminis.com/


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Wednesday, January 26, 2011

Steppin' Into the Good Life Blog Tour

About the Author

TIA MCCOLLORS is a national bestselling author who secured her spot in the publishing industry with the release of her debut novel, Zora’s Cry. She received her B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of North Carolina. After ten years as a public relations professional, Tia emerged as an inspirational speaker and author of faith-based novels. Her other titles include The Truth About Love and A Heart of Devotion. She continues to pen inspirational works and is currently writing a series of children’s early reader chapter books targeted towards girls, ages 7-9.

In addition to being a novelist, Tia is a motivational speaker and instructor for writing workshops. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers organization, and serves as the vice president of Visions In Print. Tia was voted as the Breakout Author of the Year by the Open Book Awards of the African American Literary Awards Show.

Tia lives in the Atlanta, Georgia area with her husband and son. For more information, visit her online at www.TiaMcCollors.com.

About the Book

Shelia Rushmore thought she’d be the last woman standing when it was time to fight for her man. Instead Ace, her boyfriend of two years, chose to reunite with his ex-wife, leaving Shelia emotionally devastated. It’s a year later when Sheila is convinced that sneaking into their wedding ceremony will put closure on the gaping hole in her heart.

But it’s on the back pew of the church where a new relationship begins for Shelia. She can’t explain the touch she received from God on that day, but she’s determined to be a better woman-a woman of faith. Since high school, Shelia has been chasing her definition of the good life – it’s left her with no home, no man, and no money. But now that’s she’s living life for God, things should get better, right? Shelia learns that living a faith-filled life isn’t always easy.

With faith, tough love, and some tough decisions, Shelia realizes that the life she’d been praying for she could have for herself is actually attainable. Being wrapped in God’s arms, she decided, was by far the safest place she’d ever been.

Purchase the Book Online at:

• Amazon.com
• BarnesandNoble.com
• BooksaMillion.com
• Christianbooks.com

PODCAST






For More Information

• Visit the author online at http://www.tiamccollors.com.
• View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/SteppinIntotheGoodLife


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Monday, January 24, 2011

BOOK SPOTLIGHT: Book of Days by James L. Rubart

Book of Days
by James L. Rubart

"… in Your book all my days were recorded, even those which were purposed before they had come into being." —Psalm 139:16

Young Cameron Vaux’s mind is slipping. Memories of his wife, killed two years earlier in a car accident, are vanishing just as his dad predicted they would. Memories he knows he has to remember.

His father tells Cameron that to save his mind he must find "the book with all days in it" —the past and future record of every soul on earth.

When an obscure clue leads Cameron to a small central Oregon town, he meets enigmatic Taylor Stone, a possible guide to finding the book who seems to carry secrets far deeper than anyone imagines. Local hotshot TV personality Ann Bannister thinks the legend of the book is a farce, but she has her reasons to join Cameron’s search anyway. Finally, there is fanatical New Age guru Jason Judah, will stop at nothing to find the book of days before Cameron does.

James L. Rubart is a professional marketer, speaker, and writer. He serves on the board of the Northwest Christian Writers Association and lives with his wife and sons in Seattle, Washington.



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Friday, January 21, 2011

FEATURED AUTHOR: Shelia Goss

Shelia M. Goss is the Dallas Morning News and Essence Magazine Best-Selling author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are Thorns, Paige’s Web, Double Platinum, His Invisible Wife, Hollywood Deception, Savannah's Curse (March 2011) and the teen series The Lip Gloss Chronicles. Delilah is her tenth novel and first Christian fiction novel.


Delilah:

Behind every successful man is a good woman. The downfall of a good man is a woman up to no good.

Thirty and fine, Samson Judges is preacher of the Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church . He’s beloved by his congregation, but temptation is about to strike in the form of divalicious beauty Delilah, and only the Good Lord knows if Samson will be able to keep his head on straight with her. Especially considering he’s about to be married to Julia Rivers. Julia helped shape Samson into the man he is, but Delilah wants to knock him down. He doesn’t know she’s been hired to distract him by real estate developer William Trusts, who wants to acquire the land where Samson’s church stands.... Samson feels like his relationship with God puts him above it all, but his weakness for Delilah may just cause him to lose everything. ~ Black Expressions Book Club

Book trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BweL6FyPjm4


How did you start out your writing career?

My desire to be a writer was sparked after meeting Maya Angelou my freshman year in high school. I decided to do it professionally after my Dad died and Princess Diana died.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned that if your plan for your life is in line with what God wants for you, then everything will fall into place. I say that because I almost didn't complete writing Delilah because I was going through some things in my personal and professional life at the time. After praying about the situations, I got a renewed sense of desire to complete Delilah. This is my 10th book; my first Christian fiction book and from the responses, my best book to date. So if I would have NOT written Delilah, I would not be reaping the rewards.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

After reading Delilah, I want people to reflect and think about the choices they make. I wrote Delilah because I kept hearing people trying to blame others for their transgressions instead of taking responsibilities for their own actions. We have choices in our life. It's up to each individual to weigh their options before acting or reacting. Our decisions can lead to life or death.

Which character did you have the most fun writing about?

Delilah of course. She's a three dimensional character with one thing on her mind--Samson. She makes the mistake of falling in love with her pastor, Rev. Samson Judges. Delilah hasn't had luck with men in the past but feels her luck has changed when she meets Samson. In her eyes, Samson's perfect and can do no wrong. Delilah feels if given the chance, Samson could grow to love her. She doesn't care he's already engaged to marry someone else.

How do you keep motivated to write?

Some days writing is automatic and there is no need for outside motivation. Then there are some frustrating days where just having encouragement from my network of author friends motivate me. I'm always encouraged when I receive an email from a reader.

What aspect of writing do you love the best, and which do you hate the most?

I love creating a new world and seeing how the characters stories will come to life. I don't like the revision process, but it's something that must be done, so I do it.

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

1. I wish I knew that I didn't have to limit myself. I can write in multiple genres; like I'm now doing.

2. I wish I knew that one person's "no" can be another person's "yes."

3. I wish I knew that eBooks would take off the way that they have.

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

One do--if you want to be a writer, don't talk about being a writer, do it. Write.

One don't--Don't try to find time to write. Make time to write.

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

Novels are not written by themselves. A writer has to have some form of solitude so they can write a book and to not take it personally when a writer asks for "alone" time.

If you could be a character from any book you've read, who would you be?

I would be Parris Mitchell from my book Double Platinum. Her singing career appeared to be over, but with hard work and determination, she made a comeback and ended up going not just double platinum but triple platinum.

When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to read, watch movies, and hang out with family and friends.

What do you do to interact with your readers?

I'm just a click away. I'm on the social networks. . Readers can conversate with me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/sheliagoss or Twitter: www.twitter.com/sheliamgoss


Our theme this month is Family Literacy. Do you do anything to promote family literacy?

Whenever I'm asked to speak at libraries, I do my best to encourage literarcy to not just kids, but the adults. My wish is that familes will take just 30 minutes a day to read--if not a book, at least a magazine or newspaper.

Oprah always asks, What do you know for sure?

I know that what God has for me is for me and can't nobody take it away.

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

Yes. My next book is

Savannah's Curse and its in the suspense genre.

Straight-laced Savannah Blake’s world is turned upside down when she finds her dad, Major Blake, shot on his lawn. Before he dies, he gives her a few clues to the identity of his killer. His dying request is “Protect your sisters.” Montana and Asia are the only family Savannah has left, and she will fight to the end to save them. The pain of losing their father has Savannah obsessed with finding his killer. Savannah’s Curse will take readers on a roller-coaster ride of suspense as Savannah channels her grief into an unrelenting search for her father’s murderer.

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

My website is http://www.sheliagoss.com/ or email: sheliagoss@aol.com


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Thursday, January 20, 2011

FEATURED AUTHOR: Janice E. Sullivan

 Mrs. Sullivan is a native of St. Simons Island Georgia. She spent most of her years as a youth in Syracuse N.Y. It was there that she first recognized her love for, and need to help those who found themselves at a crossroad in life as a teen. Mrs. Sullivan herself is no stranger to how important the right decisions at the right time can be. At the age of fourteen she spent over a year on the streets, encountering countless forms of abuse. She of her own cognition realized that she would not survive if she didn't act and act quickly. Making the decision to place herself in Foster Care possibly saved her life. However grateful she maybe for those days of solace; it is the days that followed that ignited her commitment to help society understand that intervention-without good intension-is what has failed many of our youth. Mrs. Sullivan survived those obstacles and went on to receive her General Education Diploma from Syracuse University's Equal Opportunity Program, gained her certification in public relations from Metro School of Arts, spent twenty- two years in managerial positions, is a licensed Realtor. And she has partnered with several youth programs. Mrs. Sullivan presently lives in Atlanta, Ga. with her husband. And continues to work with such programs as C.A.S.A www.gacasa.org
Cleaster Mims - College Preparatory School of Cincinnati, OH.
www.cleastermimsprep.org

Cucumbers Have Thorns and Snakes Love Strawberries (a story of courage, faith and survival) is a compelling memoir that keeps pulling its readers forward.

Shrouded in suspense it is an honest and gripping journey through the life of the author.

Stolen from her father at the age of five, she is abandoned by the one woman she thought would protect her. Homeless, lost, betrayed, striped of her dignity and will, she becomes filled with a hurt, anger and hate that leads her to hells door. There she must chose to forgive and live or be consumed and die:

Book trailer



How did you start out your writing career?

I started writing as a career in the 1996. First for myself and then for others: But I knew since I was around twelve that I had a knack for telling stories.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned that instant gratification can not be your motivator.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

This book is a catalyst to create a platform for all the other things I hope to accomplish.

How do you keep motivated to write?

Writing, when you have something to say…doesn’t require motivation: You will not be able to stop the words from wanting to burst out.What aspect of writing do you love the best, and which do you hate the most?

I love finding that flow, the flow that keeps you up till 8am and has you back at it by 2pm.

Re-reading the proofers proof, only to re-read the proofers proof I proofed. And still not be a 100% error free!

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

1) How to build a team 2) that you never cross your muse/editor (there is a difference-you will know when you lose one) 3) Where to find a mentor who was an insider.

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

1) Make sure you weigh the cost and time it will take to accomplish what you have sat out to do.
2) Don’t get confused by media blitz- writers don’t get rich from writing.

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

That just because you are not on the New York Times Best Seller’s list, it doesn’t mean your book isn’t worth reading: Most people don’t realize that that list isn’t about number of books sold, or great writing; but rather the opinion of a few folk who read the releases of well known publisher’s - or distributors who have a huge play in the market…you can sell 1-10000 but without there sign of approval-NO GO

If you could be a character from any book you've read, who would you be? I haven’t found one yet.

When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

Volunteer, swim, travel and spend time with my family.

What do you do to interact with your readers?

Face Book Fan page- Janice Sullivan
Email-janice@janiceesullivan.com

Our theme this month is Family Literacy. Do you do anything to promote family literacy?

Yes, I work with several youth groups on my tours. Often sponsoring reading hour where I read and speak to teens.

Oprah always asks, what do you know for sure?

What I know for sure is that: I do not want to leave this earth without doing something bigger than myself. Leaving a footprint that can not be erased.

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

Well, I have a children’s series that is set to be released by mid-March…The series is a read and learn duo that encourages positive thought and behavior. While dealing with the differences and influences our children encounter daily.

“ Nac’ouysey Stories” (na’coo-say ) the title with a hidden message!

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

Janice@janiceesullivan.com

http://www.janiceesullivan.com/

Face Book- Janice Sullivan



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Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Rhythm of Secrets Blog Tour


About the Author

Patti Lacy graduated from Baylor University in 1977 with a BS in education. She taught at Heartland Community College in Normal, Illinois, until she retired in 2006 to pursue writing full time. She and her husband, Alan, have two grown children. Visit Patti’s Web site at www.pattilacy.com.

Patti, tell us about The Rhythm of Secrets.

Hey, y’all! Do you like secrets?

Oooh, I hoped so. Meet Sheila Franklin, my heroine, who’s been used to going by several different names; who’s a preacher’s wife; who’s a mother, desperate for a second chance with her only child…

Sheila has masqueraded as the precocious daughter of avant-garde parents in colorful 1940s New Orleans, a teen desperate for love and acceptance, and an unwed mother sent North with her shame.

After marrying Edward Franklin, Sheila artfully masks her secrets, allowing Edward to gain prominence as a conservative pastor without breathing a word of her past. When one phone call from a disillusioned Vietnam veteran destroys her cover, Sheila faces an impossible choice: save her son and his beloved…or imperil Edward’s ambitions.

Inspired by a true story, The Rhythm of Secrets intermingles jazz, classical, and sacred music in a symphony trumpeting God’s grace.

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

The Rhythm of Secrets started with a morning cup of coffee and the rustle of my daily newspaper. I flipped a page.

They never forgot; in a conspiracy of silence, more than a million pregnant and unmarried young women and girls were forced to surrender their babies in postwar America. Then they were expected to return to normal living. Most never could…

Coffee smudged newsprint and made it hard to read the story of Sandy Sperrazza, who’d just reunited with the child she gave up for adoption in the 1960s, the child who consumed her thoughts for years. After the story consumed MY thoughts for days, I Googled Sandy. It took awhile to coax the national adoption advocate to share her story, but Sandy relented. My fourth novel was born!

Who are your main character(s)?

Sheila, a passionate yet secretive pastor’s wife whose life changes with one phone call.

Edward, a man whose ambitions cloud his love…and judgment until a trip to Thailand threatens to destroy everything.

Samuel, a disillusioned Vietnam veteran who will stoop to blackmail if it means freeing his beloved from human trafficking.

Did you have a favorite character? Who and why?

Oh, yes! My Sheila, who must choose between the son she doesn’t know and the husband who doesn’t know her. Can you imagine the conflict? I think dear Sheila does pretty well. No. AMAZINGLY well!

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

Another oh, my, yes! Hubby keeps asking why I don’t write about nearby places, like Normal, Illinois, where we live :) He did nix a research trip to Thailand.

Thankfully God provided a Thai native who was willing to pour his heart and his expertise into this book.

My shelves sag with books that helped get Rhythms right: Widmer’s New Orleans in the 30s and 40s (two volumes), Fessler’s The Girls Who Went Away, Barrett’s Memoirs of a Bangkok Warrior were four favorites.

Then there were SCADS of phone interviews with folks as diverse as a nonagenarian Louisiana gardener, director of a New Orleans fire museum, a former Amtrak executive—it goes on and on!!

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading The Rhythm of Secrets?

God’s gift of grace trumps every nasty secret, every filthy rag act of legalism. Love truly conquers all. And adoption truly is a complex matter!

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

God has gifted me with a passion to capture stories on paper! Unfortunately, no one will buy them if reviews and sales stink.

I don’t know a single writer, me included, who doesn’t crave acceptance and appreciation of our fellow professionals. I’m no exception

Thanks for the change to span seas and secrets with y’all! Hope to see y’all through my characters—SOON!

About the Book

Sheila Franklin has lived three separate lives. Now a conservative pastor’s wife in Chicago, she is skilled at hiding secrets—a talent birthed during childhood romps through the music-filled streets of New Orleans. But when the son she bore at the age of eighteen comes back looking for answers and desperate for help, her greatest secret—and greatest regret—is revealed.

Eager to right past wrongs, Sheila’s heart floods with memories of lyrical jazz music and a worn-out Bible. But when her husband learns of her shady history, Sheila is suddenly faced with an impossible decision: embrace the dream—and son—she abandoned against her will or give in to the demands of her safe but stifled life. As she struggles to reclaim both her son and her identity, Sheila soon realizes that God’s grace spans both seas and secrets and that He is all she really needs. With dynamic writing that makes the reader feel the heartache of a teenage mother, struggle with the disillusionment of an abandoned boy, and revel in the idea of grace despite flaws, rising star Patti Lacy takes her fans on a journey they won’t want to end—and won’t soon forget.

Purchase the Book Online at:
• Available Now on http://www.amazon.com/
• Available on http://www.booksamillion.com/
• Available on http://www.barnesandnoble.com/
http://www.christianbooks.com/

For More Information

• Visit the author online at http://www.pattilacy.com/.
• View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/TheRhythmofSecrets



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Friday, January 14, 2011

FEATURED AUTHOR: Rosalyn McMillan

Rosalyn McMillan is a dedicated wife and devoted mother of four, and grandmother of five, who is currently surviving both rheumatoid arthritis and Alopecia Totalis, a disease that causes bodily hair loss. Rosalyn worked as a sewing machine operator at Ford Motor Company for nineteen years before medically retiring. She used the challenges in her own life as inspiration to become a successful novelist. Rosalyn loves to research newsworthy stories and use them as sub-plots in her real-life novels.

Her first novel, Knowing, debuted as a highly successful initial achievement. Knowing sold over 70,000 hardcover copies and over 400,000 paperbacks. It was a national best-seller and charted admirably on many book lists.

Rosalyn then followed the success of her first book with One Better, then Blue Collar Blues, The Flip Side of Sin. This Side of Eternity was Rosalyn’s fifth novel; the plot centered around the sanitation workers strike in 1968.

Rosalyn remains a loyal student of her profession by reading two to three hundred books a year. She feels that it’s imperative for an author to keep abreast of the New York Times best-sellers as well as fresh voices of fiction.

Currently, she lives in Memphis, TN, with her husband, John, where they relax fishing in their stocked pond.

Some of her favorite authors are John Sanford, Alice Walker, Maya Angelou, John Grisham, Toni Morrison, Eric Jerome Dickey, Kimberla Lawson-Roby and Terry McMillan.

WE AIN’T THE BRONTE


Charity Lavender Evans is a national best-selling author. She has not achieved the success of her sister, Lynzee Lavender, who is a New York Times best-selling science fiction author.

No matter how hard Charity tries, she is unable to get her contract renewed. It’s been seven years.

Lynzee drops a bomb on Charity, and tells her that her husband, Jett, is the father of the daughter she bore thirty-three years ago and gave up for adoption. Charity doesn’t believe her. She hires a private detective.

Charity finds out from her friend, Herman, that Lynzee had her blacklisted. Charity is appalled. Charity contacts Lynzee who denies it. Lynzee is still putting pressure on Charity to tell Jett the truth about his daughter. Charity is in total denial.

Without a contract renewal, Charity and Jett are forced to sell their dream home. Jett secures a job as an automobile salesman. Shortly thereafter, Charity gets a job as a car salesman, too, but still continues to write novels.

Charity’s hard work pays off and she gets a new contract. Eventually the book, “Revelations,” becomes a New York Times best seller. Revelations also exposes a part of Lynzee’s past that she’s embarrassed about. She files a five million dollar civil suit against Charity. Lynzee’s career and book sales plummet.

Jett eventually finds out about his daughter. He is furious at Charity for lying to him. Jett files for a divorce. Trying to define her life, as a wife, mother, sister, and writer, will cause Charity to make some drastic changes that will eventually make her a stronger woman. But Charity’s problems are not over. Someone is playing nasty tricks on her. She fears for her life. Jett and Charity debate if it’s his ex-lover or April who is trying to hurt her. Everyone is shocked to find out who it truly is.


How did you start out your writing career?

In 1992, on a dare from a co-worker. It was after the success of Terry's book Waiting to Exhale. I went home in January and started writing that night.

What did you learn while writing this book?

That a sister's love is unconditional.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

To show reader how deep sibling rivalry can reach.

Which character did you have the most fun writing about?

Lynzee. I love writing about villians.

How do you keep motivated to write?

I have a passion for writing. I have so many stories that I want to tell, it's not hard.

What aspect of writing do you love the best, and which do you hate the most?

I love the plotting. I hate the editing process. It seems to take forever.

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

1. I wish I knew more about the business. 2. I wish I knew more about having a senior editor edit my books. 3. I wish I had known more about marketing my books from the beginning.

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

Do find an agent who believes in you and your work. Don't get your advance and not pay your income taxes. It will come back to haunt you.

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

How hard it is to write a good book. You need more than a good story. You need to know the mechanics of writing a book.

If you could be a character from any book you've read, who would you be?

Scarlett, in Gone With the Wind.

When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I like to read four to five books a week.

What do you do to interact with your readers?

Speak to bookclubs on the telephone or on sykpe.

Our theme this month is Family Literacy. Do you do anything to promote family literacy?

I was just involved in a family literary fundraiser with the Memphis Grizzlies Coach Lionel Hollins.

Oprah always asks, What do you know for sure?

I know that I'm a good mother and also a good writer.

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

My next book is a psychological thriller about a female serial killer.

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

They can e-mail me from my website: http://www.rosalynmcmillan.com/ at rosalynmcmillan@gmail.com


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Thursday, January 13, 2011

BOOK SPOTLIGHT: We Ain't The Bronte

WE AIN’T THE BRONTE

Charity Lavender Evans is a national best-selling author. She has not achieved the success of her sister, Lynzee Lavender, who is a New York Times best-selling science fiction author.

No matter how hard Charity tries, she is unable to get her contract renewed. It’s been seven years.

Lynzee drops a bomb on Charity, and tells her that her husband, Jett, is the father of the daughter she bore thirty-three years ago and gave up for adoption. Charity doesn’t believe her. She hires a private detective.
Charity finds out from her friend, Herman, that Lynzee had her blacklisted. Charity is appalled. Charity contacts Lynzee who denies it. Lynzee is still putting pressure on Charity to tell Jett the truth about his daughter. Charity is in total denial.

Without a contract renewal, Charity and Jett are forced to sell their dream home. Jett secures a job as an automobile salesman. Shortly thereafter, Charity gets a job as a car salesman, too, but still continues to write novels.

Charity’s hard work pays off and she gets a new contract. Eventually the book, “Revelations,” becomes a New York Times best seller. Revelations also exposes a part of Lynzee’s past that she’s embarrassed about. She files a five million dollar civil suit against Charity. Lynzee’s career and book sales plummet.

Jett eventually finds out about his daughter. He is furious at Charity for lying to him. Jett files for a divorce. Trying to define her life, as a wife, mother, sister, and writer, will cause Charity to make some drastic changes that will eventually make her a stronger woman. But Charity’s problems are not over. Someone is playing nasty tricks on her. She fears for her life. Jett and Charity debate if it’s his ex-lover or April who is trying to hurt her. Everyone is shocked to find out who it truly is.





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Monday, January 10, 2011

FEATURED AUTHOR: Lisa Watson

A native of Washington D.C., the city’s historic and political backdrop fed Lisa Watson’s romantic imagination. Her hobbies are as eclectic as her music collection, but her guilty pleasure is writing fan fiction based on the characters of the popular television series, Remington Steele for which she has a National and International fan base. Enamored with scenic beauty, the picturesque locales she visits always seem to find a way into her latest novels.

Lisa’s short story, The Reunion, was featured in Sun Magazine’s 10-Minute Love Story column. Her debut novel, Watch Your Back continues to receive rave reviews, and was nominated for a 2009 Afr’Am Literary Fest award in Contemporary Romance.

A subcontractor to ATF, Lisa is also the co-publicist for RT BookReview Magazine’s annual BOOKLOVERS Conventions promoting the National Bestselling authors that attend the conference via media outlets.

The newly released novel, Interview with Love (Urban Renaissance, November 2010) will start her new Interview Series. Lisa is currently working on the second book in the Interview Series, Interview with Danger and another romantic suspense, Brace for Impact.

Lisa lives outside Raleigh, NC and is married with a son, daughter, and a Yellow Lab named Boomer.

Interview with Love


No nonsense consumer psychologist, Sienna Lambert moderates focus groups to assist her clients with marketing their products to target audiences. Her newest client, Dexter Clothiers has developed state of the art men's undergarments, Best Kept Secrets that become more comfortable the longer they’re worn. Sienna interviews men from all professions and walks of life to get their opinion on the line.

When adrenaline junkie, Vaughn Deveraux meets Sienna he takes her breath away—literally. After a run-in at a client softball outing Sienna assumes Vaughn is one of the new models for Dexter Clothiers. Vaughn tells her he’s the Creative Director at the company advertising the line and jokes that he leaves the modeling in the very capable hands of his younger brother, Pierce, a retired professional football player who’s had a great deal of experience with women asking questions about his briefs.

Though intrigued, Sienna keeps her distance when she finds out he works with her client, but Vaughn’s fun nature and zest for living prove too irresistible to ignore. Sienna’s once calm, predictable life gets turned upside down when Vaughn shows her that sometime’s life is better when you experience it instead of researching it.

How did you start out your writing career?

I've always had a love for writing and reading. It's something that I have always gone back to over the years. I'd written short stories online based on characters from the popular 80's television show, Remington Steele, but it wasn't until I decided to go to the Romance Slam Jam writer's conference in 2002 that I was offered the opportunity to publish a short story for an anthology.

What did you learn while writing this book?

Having my first opportunity to write a book with a deadline looming overhead taught me that I could actually sit down and write a novel. There are so many things authors learn that are more of a trial by fire than anything else. It was a sobering experience, but one that added accelerant to the already stoked fire within me to persue writing professionally.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

The biggest thing was to prove to myself that I could do it. I literally fell into the opportunity to write an anthology and after I said, "Sure!" I had to go back home and put my money where my mouth was. The hopes that someone would actually enjoy reading what I had to say pushed me to write the best short story I could.

Which character did you have the most fun writing about?

It would have to be Adrian Anderson. He's cocky, but professional. Has has magnetism and he knows it, is dedicated to his friends, though he likes to bust their chops on occassion, and his mother drives him crazy with her matchmaking, yet is the most important person in his life. I'm working on his story, Off the Market right now. I find myself laughing out loud while writing some of his dialogue. That happens to me a lot.

How do you keep motivated to write?

Writing is what I do. Good, bad or ugly. It's what drives me. It's one of the constants in my life. Before I got published, I would write and then stop. Time would elapse and I would write and then stop, but I always came back to it. It was during one of those rotations that I finally got it. Writing is my gift. It's what I'm supposed to be doing. It brings me the most joy so I stopped fighting it and started incorporating it into my daily life.

What aspect of writing do you love the best, and which do you hate the most?

What I love most is creating new characters from whole cloth. Figuring out their personalities, how they look, their mannerisms, what makes them tick, their vulnerabilities. What I like the least would be the herculean task of reaching your target audiences. Trying to get your name out there to people that have never heard of you before and convincing them that they would truly enjoy reading your work, as would all their other friends and family members. Now that in and of itself is a full-time job!

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

How important it is to read, understand and comprehend contracts and to ensure you have it looked over by a legal, literary attorney or agent that is well versed in book contracts to ensure you are making the best decision for yourself. That if you decide you need an agent and are picked up, how essential it is to ensure that they are as passionate about your work as you are, and not just behind you for the 15% comission they'll receive. That you have to roll up your sleeves and hustle to make a name for yourself and that while writing, editing, proofing and marketing your book, how completely your life gets turned upside down. This is where having loved ones in your corner that truly support your passion is priceless.

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

The absolute DO would be to have your manuscript edited by a professional, literary editor. Not your friend, family member, or an old English teacher, but a literary editor. They are well versed on what readers want and expect, and are not just looking at your work for grammtical errors. They tell you about pacing, the flow, continuity of your storyline, whether you switch points of view midstream, whether you're using obsolete words or cliche phrases. I can't stress this enough. publishers, agents and editors are expecting your manuscript to be as perfect as it can be BEFORE it gets to their desk. It's up to you to pay the money to ensure that happens.

The one thing I would impress upon aspiring writers NOT to do would be to sit on their work waiting for the doorbell to ring and an agent, editor or publisher to be on the other side asking for their manuscript. Don't be a "Closet Writer" (Trust me, I once fit into this category, too). You have to let others READ what you write. This is a vulnerability that many writers can't overcome, but you have to master your fear of rejection and plunge in. Feet or head first is up to you, but jump in those literary waters and swim like your life depends on it. Or at least your sanity!

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

It takes time to write a good story. It isn't something that I think many authors can pull off in a month. I hear, "You need to write faster." a lot. LOL!!! Trust me, I would LOVE to publish several books a year. It's a juggling act when your daily responsibilites get in the way. I don't always have the luxury of closing my office door and sticking the "Don't Bug Me Till I'm Done." sign on it. Also, I'm sure it's not that easy to get on Oprah, and that writing is a creative career that takes time to build up. Everyone can't quit their day job and be a literary powerhouse overnight. It takes time to nurture a fan base and hone your craft.

If you could be a character from any book you've read, who would you be?

Elizabeth Bennett from Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. I've read the book, but in the movie version with Keira Knightley and Matthew MacFayden, the scene where Mr. Darcy comes striding across the moors to claim the woman he loves gives me goosebumps every single time I watch it!!

When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

Hang out with family, read, and catch up on TiVo'd shows.

What do you do to interact with your readers?

I love getting together with book clubs and discussing my stories. It really helps me when I can sit down and explore the characters with other people and see things from another perspective. I write my e-mail address in every book I sign so that readers can have a way to let me know how they liked the book. If I have the contact info, I also contact every person that has posted a review about my book on-line. I do blog, blog talk radio interviews. It's fun to be able to converse with a reader real-time or via chat. I truly enjoy the connection to my readers.

Our theme this month is Family Literacy. Do you do anything to promote family literacy?

I think just being an author promotes family literacy. Your family sees first hand what it takes to publish a book from the planning stages right up to having your printed book arrive at the front door. It makes them appreciate a good book when they know firsthand what goes into writing one. My children are avid readers and enjoy a good, well written story. I'd like to think that some of that appreciation came from their mother being a novelist.

Oprah always asks, What do you know for sure?

That I absolutely love being an author. That authors depend on the support of readers and book clubs to further their writing careers. To advance the story so to speak. A book signing is wonderful, but without people there to support you, it is a very lonely proposition. Just like a great book. If there is no one there to read it...

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

My next book will either be Interview with Danger, or Brace for Impact. Depending on which one gets picked up first.

Interview with Danger: Sometimes...Words Can Be Lethal!

When Sasha Lambert’s debut novel, The Passport Diaries, hits the bookstores, it’s an instant best seller. When her boyfriend, Milo Georgopoulos, believes the story puts his personal life in the public eye they break up.

Retired football player, Pierce Deveraux, thinks he, too, has been placed on the pages of the steamy novel. When he loses his sports endorsements over it, he’s livid. Suddenly, strange things start happening to Sasha wherever she goes. With an overzealous publicist, angry athlete and a jealous lover, vying for her attention, Sasha soon finds herself the center of a very dangerous tug-of-war.

Brace for Impact: It took sixty days for Dr. Marena Benson to fall in love with Major Coulter McKendrick, but if she doesn’t find an antidote, she’ll lose him in six!

A.S. P. R. (Advanced Synthetic Patient Renewal) was invented for the military by Dr. Marena Benson; the compound is used to treat seriously wounded soldiers allowing them to heal in record time. When it doesn’t work of a few patients the experiment is scrapped, or so Dr. Benson thought. After Marena resigns, her invention is altered into the deadly creation, Silent Night. The new bio-weapon kills the recipient within six days. The ability to kill an enemy of the state without drawing attention to the deed is formidable.

Major Coulter McKendrick is a military advisor to Col. Joseph “Ghost” Brinkley. While on a covert maneuver in Kandahar, Afghanistan, he discovers a hidden agenda involving Col. Brinkley and a local leader intent on removing all opposition. Before he can report Brinkley’s involvement, Coulter’s team is ambushed and he is injected with Silent Night and left for dead. With days to live, he seeks out the one person that can save him. Marena: The only woman he’s ever loved, and the only one he’s ever lost.

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

Readers can e-mail me at lywatson007@hotmail.com. They can also go to my website at http://www.lisawatson.com/ to read excerpts and to sign up for my monthly newsletter.

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Friday, January 07, 2011

FEATURED AUTHOR: Meesha Mink

REAL WIFEYS: On the Grind

Goldie has been the “wifey” of an older, wealthy man since she was sixteen, but the discovery of their long-time affair by his real wife brings to an end her hood-fabulous lifestyle in her low-rise project in Newark.

Determined to prove she can make it without the man and his money, Goldie tries every hustle she can think of, including selling knock-off clothing and bootleg DVDs, with little success. Then she gets an irresistible offer from a sexy strip-club owner and becomes the club’s biggest act.

Ultimately realizing that she can make more money by taking her show on the road, she leaves the club and its owner behind, and begins running her own show in her apartment. Business booms and Goldie hits it big when her company, Goldie Girls, is hired to tour with a platinum selling rapper. But her constant quest for more money and power leads Goldie to make decisions that bring on enemies and puts her safety and her self-respect at risk all for the bottom line.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meesha Mink is the national bestselling and award-winning author of 20 previous novels. She lives in New Jersey and South Carolina.

How did you start out your writing career?

I started out my writing career by researching just what it took to submit my book to publishers and agents. I think that a lot of people have the desire to write but are missing the important step of knowing what to do with their book or short story once its complete. I can not stress enough the importance of finding out the submission guidelines for the publisher or agent your interested in. I discovered that it was easier to get your seen without an agent via the romance publishers, so I decided to began writing romances even though I knew I wanted to one day get into other genres. Now once I got that out the way, I wrote some short stories and then I wrote my fist full-length romance and submitted it to three publishers. Two made offers.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I've written more than twenty books and I can't say that I learned anything new with Real Wifeys: On The Grind but I know it reaffirmed my love of creating stories that entertain and enlighten. It offered me the great opportunity to write a grittier story than my romance novels. It confirmed that I truly have a love for each of the genres that I write in and that I definitely want to continue to do so.

What did you hope to accomplish with this book?

My goal first and foremost with any book is to have readers be entertained and pulled into the story I created. I definitely didn't want to glorify negative or harmful behavior but to show how certain actions and decisions that young women make can affect their entire lives. In this first book of the series, the lead character Goldie struggles were with her love of money, her quest for power and ultimately her struggle to discover her self-respect. Unfortunately these are issues that a lot of young women grapple with in today's society, particularly as they make decision that can--and will--affect the rest of their lives.

Is the “writer’s life” what you thought it would be?

In terms of my life and just my world of getting lost in stories almost everyday--it is. Being a true full-time author, I'm able to write when I want and I wait for the inspiration. I wait for the moments when the urge to write hits me almost like a addict needing a fix. But more on the business side, there's a lot I didn't know and that I learn everyday. Because ultimately even though I love that I have this creative career, it is still a business that I am learning to handle better with each and every opportunity.

Which five characters (can be from books, movies, or tv shows) would you invite over for dinner and why?

Instead of characters I would invite one author from the various genres that African-Americans write in: commercial fiction, science/speculative fiction, mysteries, urban fiction, and literary fiction--just as a symbolic gesture that like the publishing industry there is enough room at the table for us all.

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

1) As your fan base broadens the amount of people who may or may not like your works grows as well. Get ready for some interesting reviews! 2) To be more disciplined because there's no one there to make you write and meet deadlines. 3) To learn to make time to relax.

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

This goes back to something I mentioned earlier: DO research the proper submission guidelines for the publisher or agent you;re interested in working with. DON'T assume your first book deal is going to be for six figures or better and plan to keep your day job.

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

I definitely wish people understood that I am always thinking about the ins and outs of a book--even when I'm not at my computer or I don't have a pen and pad. Mostly my non-writing friends and family interrupt my thought processes and do not understand that what I do is a job!

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

The best advice I ever received is to be realistic about the industry. And because of that, as the industry changes and shifts you will be more inclined to understand and find a new path or vision for yourself.

Uhm, worst advice was concerning a deal to write for this small press. Other writers that I knew were writing for them. One of the worst mistakes I ever made was accepting a deal. I caught all kinds of hell getting my contract voided to avoid that book being published--by a publisher that eventually folded and didn't have good business sense. I learned an important lesson that there are people out there--colleagues--who are not on top of their business.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

Watch lots of reality TV. Love it. Love it. Love it.

If you could be a character from any book you've read, who would you be?

None. I love to read books for entertainment and I can think of a dozen books that I absolutely love....but I have no desire to be anyone but me--flaws and all.

Our theme this month is Family Literacy. Do you do anything to promote family literacy?

I encourage my family and friends to read and I am always amazed by how many people don't read but feel awkward or disdainful of someone else reading. Most importantly, I give quite a few of my younger cousins free copies of my books!

Oprah always asks, What do you know for sure?

I know without a doubt that I God formed me to be a writer and I feel blessed to make a living from doing what I was born to do.

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

Website: http://www.meeshamink.com/

Email: meesha.mink@yahoo.com

Twitter: /InfiniteInk

Myspace: /meeshamink

Facebook (Announcement Page): Niobia Bryant-Meesha Mink

Shelfari: /Unlimited_Ink


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Thursday, January 06, 2011

BOOK SPOTLIGHT: LOVE, HONOR, AND BETRAY

LOVE, HONOR, AND BETRAY
By Kimberla Lawson Roby

The infamous Reverend Curtis Black's sordid past is no secret, as his wife, Charlotte, is well aware. But when Curtis' long-time mistress and mother of his illegitimate two-year-old, dies, he and Charlotte have no choice but to raise Curtina together. While the living, breathing reminder of her husband's infidelity infuriates Charlotte, Curtis couldn't be happier to finally have his whole family together. Despite her best efforts to keep her feelings hidden, Charlotte resents Curtina, taking her emotions out on the young girl. When confronted about her behavior Charlotte starts spending time away from home, all the while getting closer to her ex-boyfriend. Curtis appears to devote himself to his parish and the new church they're building, but is he really focusing his attention on the female parishioners trying to lure him into bed? Suddenly Curtis and Charlotte find themselves slipping into dangerous territory, and not even Curtis' seven-figure salary can prevent what is about to happen.

Learn more about Kimberla Lawson Roby on KimRoby.com, connect with her on Facebook, or follow her on Twitter.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO WIN A COPY OF LOVE, HONOR AND BETRAY?  Leave your email for a chance to win.

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Wednesday, January 05, 2011

Completely Whole Blog Tour

the Author

A sought after speaker, certified life coach, minister and author. As an inspirational and motivational speaker, Paulette’s desire is to motive women to reach their God given potential through conferences, workshops and seminars. Combining enthusiasm with an energetic speaking style, audiences describe Paulette’s presentation as inspiriting, enriching and encouraging. She is committed to speaking a message that is always uplifting and edifying. Paulette has authored such books as That Was Then, This Is Now which achieved national recognition by being awarded a finalist in the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Award and her newest release Completely Whole was published under her own publishing company Thy Word Publishing. She is the co-author of Victorious Living for Women. Her next book For Such a Time as This will be released in 2011 in addition to Victorious Living for Moms.

About the Book

Life’s daily struggles can often leave us perplexed and bewildered on how to cope with hard issues. In COMPLETELY WHOLE, Paulette Harper offers keys to help those who are searching for answers that can lead to a life of complete wholeness: Spirit, Soul and Body. COMPLETELY WHOLE focuses on how to overcome suffering caused by alcoholism, substance abuse, poverty, and other obstacles blocking the path to a life of wholeness.”


Purchase the Book Online at:

Join Twitter Chat with #PauletteHarper  TUESDAY - JANUARY 11, 2011 at 9 pm EST

Stay tuned for details! Follow us on Twitter
@pauletteharper AND @tcblogtours

Paulette, tell us about Completely Whole.

Completely Whole brings to light those issues that have blocked our path to total wholeness. Everyone desires to be whole and embedded within Completely Whole are keys that will assist the reader in identifying, facing and eventually conquering those places that have kept them from walking in wholeness. Areas that have been a constant struggle for one to obtain victory, be it forgiveness, substance abuse, divorce. I provide readers with practical and biblically-based solutions to overcome everyday problems. Completely Whole features prayers, meditations, and powerful scripture passages to allow readers to interact with the text and to apply it to their own lives

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

Oftentimes, many people try to seek fulfillment from money, relationships, accomplishments, or material things. Others choose to cope with difficult problems by using drugs or alcohol, but they often come up short and soon have to realize that such things do not bring true happiness and fulfillment in life. Completely Whole, shows readers how to overcome suffering caused by alcoholism, substance abuse, poverty, and other obstacles blocking the path to a life of wholeness in spirit, soul, and body. 
Did you have to do quite a bit of research for this book?

Careful thought, research and consideration went into deciding which scriptures to reference in Completely Whole. Because there are so many passages of scriptures for everything we go through in life I decided to use those that were personal to me. Those scriptures are the ones that help me overcome and finally leading me to spiritual victory.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading Completely Whole?

My focus in writing is to enrich the lives of my readers. I had a reader make this comment about Completely Whole “It speaks” and that’s what I want it to do. I want them to come away knowing that they have the ability to live a full enriched life.

I want to make several impacts on readers:

First I write non-fiction inspirational books so this means my books should have a lasting effect on a person’s spirit. Inspiring and encouraging them to pursue with passion a better fulfilled life. I want my writings to give strength, encouragement in the time of need. As they read Completely Whole, I want my writings to engage, stimulate and edify them spiritually. This book is inspiring, optimistic, hopeful and encouraging while providing a clear-cut, scriptural blueprint for each reader to follow as they allow the Word and the power of God to transform their pain and restore their lives on their road to becoming "Completely Whole."

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

To be honest, I appreciate reviews. Knowing that reviews are the opinions of the readers, I don’t get offended when someone doesn’t see my books like I do. Of course every author believes their books are the “bomb” but understanding that everyone has different taste, I accept all reviews. I need to hear what people are saying about my books. Reviews make others who are on the fence decide if they are going to buy any of my books. Reviews are one of many ways to reach readers who are a little leery about investing in new and upcoming authors.

Where can visitors find you online?

Please visit me at:
I’m on facebook under Paulette Harper-Johnson

I also have a blog Empowered to Proper which I am a blog tour host:

Book Trailer


For More Information

·         Visit the author online at http://www.pauletteharper.com
·         View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/CompletelyWhole  

REVIEW

When I opened this book, I honestly did not know what to expect.  I knew it was a devotional, but I wasn’t prepared for it to speak to me personally.  I like a book that surprises you.

Ms. Harper invites you to become complete and she takes you through the steps of becoming complete.  I never thought about being complete, but as I read her words I realized that I had a few things to work on to becoming complete.

I like the way Ms. Harper writes, it’s like talking with a spiritual advisor.  She doesn’t criticize you for your faults.  She encourages you and even gives examples of her own walk. 

I highly recommend this book for all in their journey of becoming complete.

Review by LaShaunda C. Hofffman
A copy of this book was provided by the author.
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