That's What You Get For Running With Scissors - Blog Tour

Why do women RUN WITH SCISSORS?

toniwo, author of That's What You Get For Running With Scissors, Volume 1, stops by SORMAG.

Learn how she received the concept behind her compilation.


I was eager to share the concept of ...Running With Scissors and how it applies to real life.

Today's woman is on the go and in control of everything. Her career, her household, her children, her checkbook, however there is one thing she can't control no matter how hard she tries. Her emotions.

The concept of ...Running With Scissors came from a childhood incident. Both my mother and grandmother are seamstresses and as any child, I liked to help. One day, I was fetching a pair of scissors for my grandmother and I ran to give them to her. She immediately stopped me and told me I could fall down and hurt myself.

As I got older, I applied the situation to real life. If a woman pursues a relationship with a man knowing that he is married or has other issues that could be detrimental to her, that is like RUNNING WITH SCISSORS. The opportunity for getting hurt is inevitable. But to take it a step further, once the relationship plays out exactly how it was predicted in the beginning, the woman tends to be shocked and pretends to be a victim of this NO GOOD man. She is now a woman scorned looking to repeat the same behavior with some other man with the same types of issues. But where does the responsibility lie?

So the idea of That's What You Get For Running With Scissors came from real stories exaggerated enough to be fiction but not to far from the truth. In my short story collection, I give readers a look at different women and their relationships. The stories are sad, but a true representation of women who devalue themselves for the love they perceive to have for a man.

There are 17 stories of women taking the wrong road to finding love. The compilation begins with "Stupid Is What Stupid Does," about a young woman in a relationship with a guy, who in turn is seeing someone else. When the young lady doesn't hear from him and he finally contacts her to explain, she accepts his excuse only to realize her "man" is now married to the woman she caught him with in the first place. In "Friends With Benefits" the woman falls for a guy who is the opposite of the men she usually dates, but she finds out too late that he is extremely jealous and will do anything to keep her, including filing criminal charges against her. The other stories include relationships with co-workers, preachers, ex-cons, infidelity and a host of other scenarios.

THAT'S WHAT YOU GET FOR RUNNING WITH SCISSORS has a story for almost any kind of bad relationship drama you can think of. The women fall for men who hurt them in the end. Although they see the signs to be wary of, they seem to desperately want to be in love, no matter the consequence. Some of the situations have humorous moments making one think. Even if you cannot relate personally to the particular circumstance, I am certain that there are friends, male and female, who have. The stories are real and will have you evaluating your own previous relationships. My collection is thought-provoking, insightful and honest.

Regardless, if you are Running With Scissors or not, the point of the stories is to understand that we are responsible for our choices in our relationships. If you chose to RUN WITH SCISSORS and get hurt, well, then, THAT'S WHAT YOU GET!

In the meantime, DON'T GET CAUGHT RUNNING WITH SCISSORS!
~toniwo
www.toniwo.com


Toni “toniwo” Womack is a mother, author, Navy veteran and spoken word performer who began sharing her love for writing and expressive thought a few years ago. With a mix of modesty and flamboyance, as well as utilizing colorful, thought-provoking rhymes, toniwo conveys her thoughts and feelings to her audience. As she continued to grow as a performance poet, she found that much of what she was saying began to help some people come to some realization about themselves and their relationships with other people.

Through her poetry, toniwo made people look at their situations and laugh at them no matter how bad. However, that wasn’t enough. THAT’S WHAT YOU GET FOR RUNNING WITH SCISSORS came from toniwo’s inability to contain her observations to a few verses. What went from poetic verse turned into short stories that she was willing to share with her friends and now…with the world.

Some of her creative work has been featured in Black & Single Magazine, Houston Style Magazine, Minority Business Journal, Honey Magazine and a poem featured in Essence Magazine as well and several national anthologies. toniwo has been a featured author at many book events around the nation including The Tyra Banks Show, RadioOne Station 97.9 The Box’s Book Club, KTRK’s Crossroads, & KHOU’s Great Day Houston, as well as local & national publications. She will be featured in 2009’s edition of Who’s Who in Black Houston. She currently producing two short films for the LA & Sundance Film Festivals, completed two novels, DISCORDIA: Caught in Rapture & Living With Sin with a stage-play by the same name.

toniwo is a single-mother of two from Houston by way of LaMarque, Texas.

Register For The Online Conference

ONLINE CONFERENCE 2009 - REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

This is a free conference hosted online. We have a few slots available if you would like to participate on a panel. Contact sormag@yahoo.com

DAY ONE – WRITING FOR THE LORD – August 23, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time ( 8:00 pm, 9:15 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time - 5:00 pm and 6:15 pm, 7:15 pacific time)

Welcome Chat

Workshop: Maurice Gray - Be Not Discouraged: The Writing Plan

Workshop: Dr. Linda Beed - Be Not Discouraged: The Writer's Plan


ONLINE:

Panel: Meet the Christian Author – Linda Beed, Cheryl Donavan, Zaria Garrison, Ashea Goldson, Michelle Larks, Shelia Lipsey, Vickie McDonough, Wanda Campbell, Valerie L. Dodson/Carrie Elizabeth Greene

Workshop: The Father's Heart – Lena Dooley

Workshop: Writing Christian Drama - Jeanette Hill

DAY TWO - NEW WRITERS – August 24, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time ( 9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time - 6:00 pm, 7:15 pacific time)

Panel: Debut Writers - Rekaya Gibson, Dr. William & Diane Martin, April Alisa Marquette, Nicole Rouse, Chemistry

Panel: I've Signed a Contract Now What? – Rhonda McKnight, Jean Holloway, Cara Putman

ONLINE:

Discussion: How to go from idea to manuscript? - Sheila Goss, Rae Lori , Tia McCollors, D.L. Sparks, Tiffany Amber Stockton

Meet the Romance Author - Francis Ray, Sophia Shaw, Rae Lori, Bettye Griffin, Tiffany Amber Stockton

Discussion: Working Effectively With Book Clubs - Tee C. Royal, Jean Holloway

Workshop: Mapping: Plotting Your Way To A First Draft – Carol Shenold

Workshop: Writing Love Scenes – Denise Jefferies

Workshop: Building An Author's Platform - Cheryl Donovan

DAY THREE – ADVANCED WRITERS– August 25, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time ( 9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time - 6:00 pm, 7:15 pacific time)

Panel Discussion: Not Your Mama's YA - Paula Chase Hyman, Shelia Goss, Celeste O. Norfleet, Victoria Christopher Murray, Michelle Sutton, Tia Hines, Varian Johnson

WORKSHOP: The Contract - Angela Benson


ONLINE:

Meet the Children Book Author - Shelia Goss, Rose Beaver, Paula Chase Hyman

Discussion: Entering Contests - Dyanne Davis

Workshop: Writing With A Day Job - Angela Benson

Workshop: Pitching To An Agent - Lyn Cote

DAY FOUR – READERS– August 26, 2009

LIVE CHAT:


The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time ( 9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time - 6:00 pm, 7:15 pacific time)

Discussion: Book Reviewers - Idrissa Uqdah, Yasmin Coleman, Tee C. Royal, Laura Major, LaShaunda C. Hoffman, Patricia Woodside, Shawneda Marks, Monique (Deltareviewer) Bruner, Angela Breidenbach

Discussion: Making a better book: Readers - What do you expect from writers/Writers what do you wish readers knew

ONLINE:

Meet the Mainstream Author - Francis Ray, Angela Benson,Tia McCollors, Tinisha Johnson, Beverly Jenkins

Workshop - Getting Your Book Club/Literary Group On the Map - Tee C. Royal

Workshop – How to journal - Shawneda Marks, Unika Howell-Molden, LaShaunda Hoffman, Angela Breidenbach

Discussion: Have you jumped aboard the Kindle Ship?

Discussion: Share your favorite Author Moment

POETRY SLAM

DAY FIVE – SELF PUBLISHING– August 27, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time ( 9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time - 6:00 pm, 7:15 pacific time)

Panel Discussion: Linda Beed, Shawneda Marks, Barbara Williams, Sylvia Hubbard

Panel Discussion: Why you need an author assistant? - Kym Fisher, Pamela S. King, MBA, Connie Dettman, Sharon Cooper, Julia Barnes


ONLINE:

Discussion: Self Publishing Your Book - Barbara Williams, Sylvia Hubbard, Gloria Mallette, Deborah Copeland, Savannah Frierson, Rachel Berry, Dr. William & Diane Martin

Meet The Freelance Editor - Savannah Frierson, Michelle Chester, R Clark

Discussion: Revising Your Book - Michelle Chester, Rhonda McKnight

Workshop: Internet Marketing for the Self-published - Ella Curry

Workshop: Overcoming Writers Block - Karen Kay

Workshop: Building The Story and Scene - Karen Kay

Workshop: Self Editing For Writers - Shon Bacon

DAY SIX – THE BUSINESS OF WRITING– August 28, 2009

LIVE CHAT:
The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm central time ( 9:00 pm eastern time - 6:00 pm pacific time)

CHAT: Thanks for attending


ONLINE:

Discussion: Social Media - LaShaunda Hoffman - SORMAG, L. Martin - UrbanliteraryReview, Tiffany Amber Stockton

Meet The Editor - Monica Harris -Leisure Books, Deborah Schumaker - Genesis Press, Kymberlyn A Reed - Parker Publishing, Stacy Boyd - Harlequin, Joylynn Jossel - Urban Christian, Diana Ventimiglia - Harlequin

Workshop: Online Marketing - Ty Moody

Workshop: 8 Points Online Marketing Plan For Authors – Dee Stewart

DAY SEVEN – PROMOTION – August 29, 2009

ONLINE:

Panel: Meet the Publicist - Pam Perry, Dana Pittman (2 slots available)

Discussion: Promotion – LaConnie Taylor-Jones, Tinisha Johnson, Abiola Abrams, Laura Major, Cydney Rax, Deborah Copeland, Tiffany Amber Stockton, LaShaunda Hoffman

Discussion Marketing on a budget: LaShaunda Hoffman, Debra Owsley

Workshop: Branding Yourself – Tanya Bates

Workshop: How To Get Your Print In Print - Cheryl A. Pullins

Workshop: Blogging – Lyn Cote


Would you like to be a SPONSOR for the conference?

Would you like to donate a doorprize? send a email to sormag@yahoo.com

PURPOSELY SAID

Do You Have PSPD?

By Dr. Linda F. Beed

Necessity is the mother of invention and during this time of opportunity the literary entrepreneur has more avenues of publication available to them than ever before. Many who may be in a transitional stage due to job loss, downsizing or retirement are utilizing the time they once longed for to write that Great American Novel.

Within that journey toward publication there is much information to disseminate in order to make what is considered the best decisions possible. You will touch and be touched by those offering advice as it pertains to their experience and points of view. To be sure that you are up on the latest trends and practices you attend the You Can Be A Bestseller, How To Write A Book In 60 Minutes, Write Your Book and Make Millions and the ever so popular How To Get Oprah To Endorse Your Book seminars.

You have taken notes, bought the materials and committed each step to memory. Armed with the trusted arsenal you are sure will make you a literary success, you plot your course and write that book that has been burning inside of you. After reading, rereading and then receiving encouragement from Pookey and nem, you make ten copies to be sent to the top publishing houses in the country.

Within six to nine months you receive ten rejection letters. What happened?

Your PSPD placed your work in a state of rejection.

What is a PSPD and how did you get it?

PSPD – Potential Slush Pile Disease is contracted when authors do not educate themselves or disregard the rules of publishing house submissions.

The Symptoms:

*Not knowing publishing house(s) submission guidelines
*Not following all of the guideline steps
*Sending unsolicited manuscript(s) to publishing house(s)
*Manuscript submitted to a house(s) by agent unknown to house(s).

The opening example is extreme, but not as uncommon as you may believe. Without proper planning and knowledge many manuscripts will end up in a slush pile with little to no hope of making it any farther up the literary ladder that will lead to publication. They will not make it because few Houses accept unsolicited manuscripts. By following the rules of submission on the publisher’s Websites the expending of unnecessary energy, wasting finances and keeping your work out of the slush pile can be minimized.

Below are a few suggestions of steps to consider when considering manuscript submission.

* After writing your manuscript, take it through the appropriate editing process
* Solicit the services of a professional agent who has knowledge of the industry, connections to at least two reputable publishing houses, successfully published clients and references. Remember that agents are not paid if they cannot sell a manuscript. Listening to sound advice from them can be valuable to achieving your goal.

Please Note: Obtaining the services of an agent is no guarantee that your manuscript will be accepted. What it will do is challenge your plan and help you shore up any holes or misconceptions you may have regarding this process. See July 2009 Column: Looking for an Agent for more details.

Whether or not you feel that the policies of the Houses are fair, you ARE required to follow the rules if your goal is to keep your work out of their slush pile. The slush pile is considered the death row of the literary industry.

Until next time, remember—Purposely Said words can destroy or create a life. Linda!

Dr. Linda Beed is an educator, speaker, children’s minister and author of Business Unusual. She co-moderators BWChristianLit, maintains its sister online blog and is the founder of the Damascus Road Authors, review editor for KDGospel Media Magazine and contributor to Victorious Voice Magazine.

lindabeed.com / MySpace / On Assignment Reviews / BWChristianLit

FEATURED AUTHOR: Kianna Alexander

Editor's Note: When I put out a request for a roommate for Slam Jam 2008, this young lady stepped up and offered her room. We hit it off immediately and I knew I’d met a future writer. Her enthusiasm for her writing, revived my own. This was her first slam and she knew she was going to sell her book. I had fun sitting back watching her experience slam and being excited about being a writer.

I was not surprised when she contacted me about selling her book. I knew it would come to pass. When a writer has excitement about her books, she won’t stop until she find someone who thinks the same thing. Kianna is one of those writers and I knew she'd find someone who loved her story as much as she did.


I’m excited to introduce my new friend to you and I look forward to seeing more books by her. -- Thanks Kianna for inspiring me.

Who is Kianna Alexander?


A woman, a mother, a wife, and a self-proclaimed Southern Belle


She may not be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, but she can write a tall tale in a single sitting. Born and raised among the pine trees of North Carolina, Kianna has always been a voracious reader. Cereal boxes, billboards, and other unconventional sources fed her unquenchable appetite for the written word. Soon, as she entered adolescence, Kianna realized that she enjoyed writing the words as much as she enjoyed reading them.

Married to the military, she now resides in Alaska, where she plans to write more, care for her family, and craft, all while bringing Southern hospitality to the frozen tundra.

Skye's the Limit

One woman’s deepest, darkest secret is keeping her from living the life she desires. Skye Lynne Holdron used to be an outgoing, bubbly,ambitious person, until one fateful night in 1989 changed her from the inside out. Fifteen years later, she still suffers from nightmares and anxiety attacks. In order for Skye to find her way back to herself, she must first deal with the suppressed memories that plague her. But when the threats begin, she fears that her efforts, and perhaps her life, may be cut short.

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

I want readers to realize that no matter what has happened in their past, they can overcome it. We've all had painful things happen to us, but you have to confront them, deal with them, and move on with your life. Don't let the past hold you back.
Also, I hope readers come away with a healthy perspective on assertiveness. It's okay to stand up for yourself, and to expect people to treat you with respect.

Why did you choose to write this book?

I've been writing since I was about eleven, starting with a long stage play called "The Dream." It was based off of a dream I had about being married to a television actor(who shall not be named!). Even though it was just adolescent fancy, I realized I loved spinning tales. I veered off into poetry in high school, then in my junior year of college, I took up prose. It's my favorite by far, and way better than my attempts at poetry.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned that having a method is very important when you sit down to write a book. Whether you're a "pantser" (off the cuff type) or a "plotter", you've got to have some idea of where you're going before you face that blinking cursor.


I also learned that getting out and going to conferences and writer's groups to meet like minded people is a valuable thing. Attending last year's Romance Slam Jam in Chicago was easily the best investment I've made in my career, just based on the people I met. (I must admit I acted like a total fan-girl around Beverly Jenkins.) The workshops were icing on the cake. And, going to weekly writer's group meetings gives me some much needed cheer leading, from people who know what it's like to write.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

Hmm. I would have to say the beat-down near the end. I won't tell you who's dishing and who's taking, but it was so much fun to write!

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

That writing is work, but you can do it. Lots of folks come up to me and say, "Oh, I have an idea for a book, I just haven't written anything." Well, I have, and it ain't no cakewalk. Writing is a labor of love, but I survived. You will too, but you have to put pen to paper.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

These are my top two: Beverly Jenkins showed me the value of research for historicals, as well as some of the best sources. Marcia Colette advised me to write what I love and not worry about the naysayers.

What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

Dealing with an editor who made an awful lot of red marks, and some comments I found insulting. I spoke with her directly, and kept it PG. I don't think it was intentional, she just needs to work on toning down the sarcasm and contempt in her comments. But, in the end, I just made the changes I thought were valid, and rejected the rest.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I'm a craft queen. Blame it on years of Girl Scouting. I sew, cross-stitch, paint in oil, and am looking to take up quilting. Although I don't think I'll find the time!
I stand at attention in the movie theater. Civilians without any connection to the military don't know this, but any movie shown at a base theater begins with the National Anthem, and everybody stands: kids, moms, and service members alike. As a military spouse, service to country and patriotism rule my life. The next time you see a service member, thank them. Don't forget to thank their spouses and kids, too, because the whole family has to sacrifice.

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

The best way to get improve as a writer is to write.

Rejection letters will not kill you.

That pursuing a writing career was a legitimate choice for me, even if no one else agreed.

How do you reach new readers?

I have a lot of web presence. I'm have my own website, along with a personal blog. I also blog with a group, the Roses of Prose, every Tuesday. In addition, I'm on Author's Den, Facebook (under my real name), MySpace, and now SORMAG! I'm also looking into doing some signings in the local area. Since I'm in Alaska, that will be interesting, but I'm hoping to get home to North Carolina before year's end for a big release party.

Also, when people ask me what I do, I tell them I'm a writer, and I try to always have business cards, postcards, or something to give them. Most people are pretty excited to meet a "real live author." Some people look truly amazed, like they've met a unicorn or something. ;)

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

Shakespeare. Who wouldn't? It would be great to know where he got his inspiration.


Danielle Steele. She's been in the game for a long time, and I'd ask her how she developed that staying power.

Edgar Allan Poe. I love his stories, they're very evocative. I'd love to get inside his head.

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

DO write as often as you can, even if it's only a few minutes a day. The more you write, the better you become.

DON'T let others discourage you from pursuing publication. Even if you're not confident in your skills, you can still learn the craft through practice, taking classes, and getting advice from published writers.

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

My website is http://www.kiannaalexander.com/. (The link to my blog is on the homepage.)
The Roses of Prose blog can be found at http://www.rosesofprose.blogspot.com/.

You can search my "Kianna Alexander" to find me on Author's Den, MySpace, and at my publisher's website, www.RedRosePublising.com.

As far as email, send your comments to mskianna@kiannaalexander.com, or use the contact form on my site.

Our theme for this month is STAYING OUT OF THE SLUSH PILE. What is your advice to an author who is ready to submit and doesn’t want to end up in the slush pile?

ALWAYS follow the publisher's guidelines, if you don't they will scrap your work in a second. Also, be professional in your interactions with the staff, you never know who is going to read your email. Some editors or agents will also get peeved if you pester them about your submission, so sit on your hands and resist the urge to send that tenth email of the day asking about your work.

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

I'd love to. Next on the schedule at Red Rose is a historical about a runaway slave woman, and a light skinned black doctor in 1859. Jonathan has been passing for white all his life, but when the beautiful Naomi collapses on the doorstep of his practice, he's left reeling. When he begins to fall for her, he has to decide if he can accept his heritage. Meanwhile, Naomi has to choose between the freedom and safety waiting on the other side of the Canadian border, or the embrace of the handsome doctor.

I also have a jazz-themed romantic suspense series in the works, called the Queen City Gents. It's going to be a wild ride of jazz music, crime, and passion. My wonderful agent, Misherald Brown of ML Brown and Associates, is actively shopping it.

The Hope of Refuge blog tour

Raised in foster care and now the widowed mother of a little girl, Cara Moore struggles against poverty, fear, and a relentless stalker. When a trail of memories leads Cara and Lori out of New York City toward an Amish community, she follows every lead, eager for answers and a fresh start. She discovers that long-held secrets about her family history ripple beneath the surface of Dry Lake , Pennsylvania , and it’s no place for an outsider. But one Amish man, Ephraim Mast, dares to fulfill the command he believes that he received from God–“Be me to her”– despite how it threatens his way of life.

Completely opposite of the hard, untrusting Cara, Ephraim’s sister Deborah also finds her dreams crumbling when the man she has pledged to build a life with begins withdrawing from Deborah and his community, including his mother, Ada Stoltzfus. Can the run-down house that Ada envisions transforming unite them toward a common purpose–or push Mahlon away forever? While Ephraim is trying to do what he believes is right, will he be shunned and lose everything–including the guarded single mother who simply longs for a better life?

Cindy Woodsmall is the author of When the Heart Cries, When the Morning Comes, and The New York Times Best-Seller When the Soul Mends. Her ability to authentically capture the heart of her characters comes from her real-life connections with Amish Mennonite and Old Order Amish families. A mother of three sons and two daughters-in-law, Cindy lives in Georgia with her husband of thirty-one years.

Cindy was recently covered on ABC Nightline:
http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=7676659&page=1

The Last Woman Standing Blog Tour

Meet Tia McCollors

Tia, tell us about your current book release, The Last Woman Standing

Lynette Bowers had no intention on falling in love with her ex-husband, “Ace” Bowers. After all, it has been ten years since their marriage ended, and two years since the beginning of his relationship with the younger and prettier, Sheila Rushmore. Besides Sheila, everyone knows that only a fool makes the same mistake twice, especially when it comes to marriage.

Ace seems stuck between his past and his future. With his conflicting emotions, he risks losing two women who hold a significant place in his heart. It’s going to take his faith and God’s love to handle the ensuing drama.

Sheila is starting to see Ace’s ex-wife as a threat to her lifelong dreams of achieving the happily-ever-after. Sheila is used to getting what she wants – except Ace’s commitment to marriage. When Sheila realizes Lynette may be the cause, she launches a plan to play the hand of God, instead of allowing Him to bring the love all three of them desire.

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

I can’t remember the exact moment when the idea for this book came to mind, but I do remember a match being tossed into the flames of the idea after the dance ministry at my church performed a liturgical piece that told a story about a husband and wife being restored after an adulterous affair. Although that’s not what happens in The Last Woman Standing, it still dealt with the concept of the possibility of restoring a marriage.

Who are your main character(s)?

Scott “Ace” Bowers is the man in the middle. He holds the heart of two women in his hands, and honestly doesn’t want to hurt either of them – his current girlfriend and his ex-wife of four years.

Lynette Bowers is the ex-wife who can’t believe these feelings for her ex-spouse is resurfacing. She’s a pediatric dentist and when she and Ace were married, she was more concerned about her career and children than she was with him.

And finally there’s Sheila Rushmore. Sheila wants nothing more than to be Mrs. Scott “Ace” Bowers, yet she feels like he is pulling away from her. Her fickle best friend, Cassandra, keeps giving her conflicting advice on keeping and dumping her man.Did you have a favorite character(s)? Who and why?

I can’t really say that I have a favorite character although during the span of the novel, there was a time when I felt connected to each character for one reason or another. But if I tell you why, it’ll give away part of the story.

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

I personally know – and am close to – a couple who was in a similar situation so I pulled a little about my knowledge from their relationship. I didn’t use specific aspects of their story, but I thought about how they’d respond to certain situations. As far as the location for the book, I live in the Atlanta area so that worked in my favor.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading this book?

Simply put, to trust God.

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

Of course you want everyone who reads your book to rave about it, but that’s just not going to happen. Every book isn’t for everybody, and unfortunately there are those who want to add their negative two cents about somebody else’s creative work. Now with that being said, I appreciate reviews, but they’re not the motivating force behind my work.

THE LAST WOMAN STANDING BLOG TOUR GIVEAWAY

Tia McCollors is the author of four Women's Fiction books. Read the question below to see if you can answer it and provide the name of the book in which it was featured.

Name at least one of Tia’s speaking topics. (Visit www.TiaMcCollors.com)

Leave your answer in the comment section. All post with correct answers posted to the blog comment sections will be entered in a random drawing for prizes. The more you post (with correct answers) the better your chances. Winners will be contacted via email and also posted on Tia’s Blog, “From Tia’s Pen”.

Contest prizes include:

1. $5 gift card to Smoothie King or Panera Bread (Winner’s Choice)
2. $5 gift card to Chick-Fil-A
3. $10 gift card for Border’s
4. Autographed copy of The Last Woman Standing
5. Autographed copy of The Last Woman Standing

Follow the rest of The Last Woman Standing Blog Tour at: http://bitly.com/TheLastWomanStanding

Tia’s Contact Info:

· www.TiaMcCollors.com
· Tia@TiaMcCollors.com
· www.myspace.com/TiaWrites
· http://www.shoutlife.com/TiaWrites
· Visit Tia’s blog: www.TiasPen.blogspot.com

FEATURED AUTHOR: LaToya Stevenson Watkins

LaToya lives in the Dallas/FortWorth area of Texas with her husband and three children. She works as a writer and an editor for various publications, including North Dallas Gazette. She is a literary studies graduate from the University of Texas at Dallas, where she currently attends graduate school as well.

In Love with Losers offers a positive perspective toward common African American struggles. As three women set out on a mission to find a suitable man, each embarks on her own journey of priorities and self-discovery. Each of the women has to fight her own battle of love, yet they must all wrestle with determining whether or not the men in their lives are losers or lovers; real or fake. As the truth slowly reveals itself to each of them, they start to realize what love and relationships are really all about, expelling the losers within themselves.

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

I would like for readers to be entertained if nothing else after reading In Love with Losers. In a perfect world, my readers would walk away and say to themselves “dang, the only person that I have the power to change and the right to judge in my own relationship is me. I feel what LaToya is conveying here.” But since our world is imperfect, all I want to do is provide my readers with rich and enjoyable entertainment.

Why did you choose to write this book?

I was tired of looking at the losers in my life and in the lives of women around me and not seeing us. Women can be losers for some of the stuff we put up with just to have a man, but we can also be losers by not knowing how to treat a good man when God does send him along. I wrote this book after discovering and shedding some loser traits of my own.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned that I was an artist. After years of college and writing for others, it took actually creating my own art to realize that I am—always was, an artist.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

My favorite scene has to be when Zora reveals to Will’s wife that they have been sleeping together. She was expecting to sabotage this man’s marriage, but she actually ended up gaining respect from a not-so attractive woman who was willing to stay with her man after being put through major drama by him. For me that scene showed different stages of strength from two very different characters.

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

That a work of fiction does not have to be based on someone close to a writer. A writer can create things about a guy sitting in the car next to him/her or a couple at a bowling alley. All stories don’t point to family or personal secrets.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

Feedback and criticism—if constructive, are some of the most valuable tools for growth.

What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

Being rejected. When I was younger and more vain, I’d list rejection as my greatest fear. Even now rejection is jarring, but I still press forward.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I am really shy.

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

That a deep love for literature is really worth something, that a person must go through to in order to get TO (something), and that if I let God lead, life is not pain or challenge free, but it’s a lot easier than if I don’t.

How do you reach new readers?

I reach new readers through old friends, new friends, and the internet.

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

Alice Walker- I’d want to know where the inspiration for characters like Grange Copeland and Celie derived. I’d ask her how she jumps from one beauty to another (Third Life of Grange Copeland to Warrior Marks) both so different, yet so free; J.R.R Tolkein-How does one imagination stretch across so many different worlds?; I’d ask Langston Hughes to write a poem for today.

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

Be you. Don’t follow the crowd, follow your heart when it comes to your work.

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

Mail-7801 Alma Dr#105, P.O. BOX 156, Plano, Texas, 75025; email-- latoyastevensonwatkins.com; www.latoyaswatkins.com

Tell us your loser story for a chance to win a copy of In Love with Losers.

Blue Like Play Dough - Blog Tour

In the everyday stretch and squeeze of motherhood, Tricia Goyer often feels smooshed by the demands of life. In Blue Like Play Dough, she shares her unlikely journey from rebellious, pregnant teen to busy wife and mom with big dreams of her own. As her story unfolds, Tricia realizes that God has more in store for her than she has ever imagined possible.

Sure, life is messy and beset by doubts. But God keeps showing up in the most unlikely places–in a bowl of carrot soup, the umpteenth reading of Goodnight Moon, a woe-is me teen drama, or play dough in the hands of a child.

In Tricia’s transparent account, you’ll find understanding, laughter, and strength for your own story. And in the daily push and pull, you’ll learn to recognizes the loving hands of God at work in your life… and know He has something beautiful in mind.

Tricia Goyer is the author of numerous works of fiction and nonfiction, including Generation NeXt Parenting and the Gold Medallion finalist Life Interrupted. Goyer writes for publications such as Today’s Christian Woman and Focus on the Family, speaks to women’s groups nationwide and has been a presenter at the Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) national convention. She and her husband, John, live with their family in Montana .

FEATURED AUTHOR: Dr. Thomas Lindley

Dr. Lindley is a Scientist and a Technical Consultant for NASA and commercial companies. He has a doctorate in mathematics, masters in engineering and certification in computer technology. He has been engaged in astrophysics, cosmology and aerospace design/engineering. He has applied these disciplines to Space Systems, Human Factors, Quality Assurance, and Artificial Intelligence. He is writing about his research toward the purely scientific proof that the entity, described as God, in the Holy Bible, the Qur’an, and the Tanakh, must exist. He has lectured on Cosmology, Statistics, and Supercomputers. He is a member of the Association for Symbolic Logic (ASL), The National Space Society (NSS), and The Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE).

He has extensive experience and professional relationships in the physics, engineering, and logic communities.


Eternal Origin: Observation’s Solution to the Riddle of Existence

Something must always exist, or there must have been a time when nothing existed. If there was a time when nothing existed, it follows that what now is, has come into existence from nothing.

Eternal Origin: Observation’s Solution to the Riddle of Existence, shows how observation gives the answer. Observation is the result of experience, the information from senses, mental reasoning, and the reminders from memory.

Through science, we define time, existence and reality such that they conform to normal experience. We then combine all of this through cosmogony, (the study of the origin of the Universe), mathematics (the way numbers behave), and reasoning (the way the human mind comes to conclusions).

The book proves that at one time, the universe was a collapsed object that could not expand. There was no material Universe before that. In determining how it came into existence, we look at the impact of gravity. Gravity should have prevented the Universe from coming into existence.
Yet, we’re here.

Eternal Origin examines the consequences that must exist if something-from-nothing could ever occur. For numbers, this condition necessitates that every number be equal to zero. For mental reasoning, it forces everything to be equal to nothing.
Would you like to giveaway a copy of your book? (if so, I’ll send you the winner’s name and address later)


What would you like readers to take away from your book?

The ability to duplicate the proof that something having the attributes the bible gives to God, must exist

Why did you choose to write this book?

In my work as a scientist, the world of mathematics and astrophysics kept telling me that the universe did not always exist, yet there must be something that does always exist. Once I put the information together, I wanted everyone to know.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned much about the universe itself, the elements that surrounded its coming into existence, and the procedures by which humans determine what must be true.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

Chapter 5, Opposites Are Never the Same. This chapter contains the basis of human reasoning, that opposites cannot have the same description so can never be the same. So, something and nothing cannot be the same. You and Not-You cannot be the same. Zero and any other number cannot be the same.

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

Writing is boring, dry, and shallow unless the writer puts the reader in the position of being the recipient of the action. The reader must care. Caring is subjective. If the writing is objective, the reader is forced to be an objective observer, instead of a subjective participant.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

To find out what publishers want to buy, read the kinds of writing you intend to write: magazine articles, short stories, books, based on the. Spend time in bookstores, observing what is being read.

What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

This subject, ‘Something must always exist’, is not a subject that technical scientific sources, who say it cannot be proved, will accept. It is difficult to present this type of material to readers while being prevented by the science community and their scientific journals.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

Continue to learn from the bible even after 45 years of studying it.

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

1) The Four Categories of Nonfiction Writing:
Information
Entertainment
Opinion
Inspirational

2) The Outline Structure of Nonfiction Writing
a. The Beginning
Introduce the subject

b. The Middle
Prove the subject

c. The Ending
Benefit of the subject

3) Sentence to Summarize The Piece of Writing

a)Who did it, or to who did it happen to
b) What Happened
c) When did it happen
d) Where did It happen
e) Why did it happen

How do you reach new readers?

I look for locations that would be frequented by those I believe to be my audience. These locations can be virtual (websites, blogs, chat rooms, etc.) or material (conventions, appearances, book fairs, etc.)

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

(1) Margaret Atwood

She writes about the impact of conditions just out of balance to what we usually experience to cause us to reason about our behavior. (Example: A Handmaid’s Tale)

(2) James Baldwin

He never gave up. His writing continued to present our ‘not-yet-equal’ resistance against the ‘you can’t win if we don’t let you play’ circumstance through different stories and characters. (Example: Giovanni’s Room)

(3) Ray Bradbury

He has a way of speaking in metaphors that convey understanding in pictures. He can present the way humans feel, their motivations, and their reactions to life, in very few words. (Example: The Martian Chronicles)

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

Don’t use clichés.

Do use auxiliary processes to enhance your writing capability (Use techniques for accessing the right side of the brain.)

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

tllindley29@gmail.com
or
www.eternaloriginbook.com

Our theme for this month is AGENT HUNTING. Do you have any advice on finding a good agent?

Find an agent that has represented writers that have written items in the same genre and/or theme as your writing. Determine what the agent wants, and their rules. Send a query to them. Keep writing

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

My next book: Is Evolution Proved By the Scientific Method?
(The procedures for scientific proof show Evolution cannot be true)

In Memory Of E. Lynn Harris

My deepest sympathy goes out to E. Lynn Harris’ family, friends and fans. He will be missed.

As you know I’m a sucker for romance. I’d picked up the February issue of Essence and they featured a few romances and included the excerpt of Invisible Life. I read the excerpt and was intrigued, it was about two men. WHAT?

This was my introduction to E. Lynn Harris. I read the book and was hooked to his writing.

As a person who loves to meet authors, he was a hard person to meet because I didn’t have the right contacts. In 2003 he came to St. Louis and I made it my business to go to his book signing. Instead of the normal book signing, he did a short speech and answered questions from the audience. He also brought a model with him who was in the calendar he was selling. They both stayed until the last picture was taken.

The path E. Lynn travelled to publish his story was different than others, but it didn’t stop him from introducing his books to readers. I admired him more and looked forward to doing an interview with him.

I got the pleasure a few years later when I did an online radio show. I finally had a chance to talk with him.

He was getting over a cold, but it didn’t stop us from chatting. It was like catching up with an old friend. He didn’t mind that we went over our allotted time. I hung up the phone again in ah over this great writer.

One of the best things about being a writer is that you always leave something behind, your stories. They are here forever which means your memory lives on and on.

E. Lynn has gone on to his glory, but his words will stay with us forever. If you have an E. Lynn book pick up your favorite this week and revisit his words and remember the writer.

More Tributes to E. Lynn

http://www.ebonyjet.com/culture/literature/index.aspx?id=13976


http://www.theroot.com/views/e-lynn-harris-1955-2009

http://www.theroot.com/blogs/virginia-deberry/what-becomes-big-hearted-tribute-e-lynn-harris

Please share your special memory with E. Lynn.

FEATURED AUTHOR: Clarence Nero

In this sequel to THREE SIDES TO EVERY STORY, daring and acclaimed writer Clarence Nero takes us back into the lives of Johnny and James in a powerful novel about fraternities, family, and college drama.

Johnny and James survived the tough streets of New Orleans, but when Hurricane Katrina lays waste to their beloved Ninth Ward, they are forced to begin a new chapter in Washington DC. For Johnny, this means finally pursuing his dream of a becoming a student at the historic Wheatley College. James soon joins Johnny in the Nation’s Capitol but the strong connection that brought them together in prison is strained by the pressures of their new lives. Then Johnny’s brother Carl and his wife, Tiffany, introduce Johnny to the beautiful, sexy, and smart, Sheila Doggett with the intent of steering Johnny in a different direction. The entire family rallies around Johnny and Shelia’s budding friendship and Johnny prepares to join the frat that is a legacy in his family.

But once James gets wind of what Johnny’s family is up to, he decides that he’ll stop at nothing to save his relationship. Meanwhile, Johnny is struggling to keep the peace with everyone and keeping a potentially deadly secret that could stand in the way of his dreams. Everyone is soon confronted with the truth that the havoc in their lives has only just begun…

How far will you go for love?

Our heroes and sheroes wrestle with this question as they struggle to do right by themselves and those they love and the result is a fast-paced, thought-provoking roller coaster of a read.

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

Of course, I hope they are entertained. If you buy a book or a go to a movie, you should be entertained. But I want the readers to understand that I have a message and a bigger purpose then simply entertaining. I also to want to educate, inspire, and expand the reader in some way. Get them to think beyond their world—their comfort zone. It’s all about breaking down barriers and opening up yourself to understanding that there are other people on this planet besides me and you. There are many social issues that I address in the book and I hope the reader will think about these issues and walk away with some knowledge that may change their lives for the better. We have to stop hating one another and learn to love everybody like God loves us all.

Why did you choose to write this book?

It’s a sequel to “Three Sides To Every Story” and I felt that I still had more ground to cover from the last book. The characters are now displaced from Hurricane Katrina to Washington, DC. They are dealing with a lot of drama surrounding that issue as well as in their own personal lives. It’s really about Johnny, a young man coming of age and trying to find the courage to love despite his family’s disapproval of his lifestyle.

What did you learn while writing this book?

That I have to allow the characters to speak through me no matter how hard or difficult it may be. You see, sometimes the characters and I don’t see life the same way. Sometimes I hate how they may react in a particular situation. But I learned to allow the characters to be who they are and then the story will become or rather be more authentic.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

The scene where Sheila and the principal are meeting with Lester’s father, Mr. Toole, about his allegations that James molested his son. I love it when James and his momma Flo show up on the scene and Flo is raising all kind of hell about what her son is being accused of. I love the way Flo stands up for her son although his gay and feminine. I think that’s unconditional love and we all should strive to be that type of human being. To accept people as they are. I love me some Flo.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

Maya Angelou recently told me not to read reviews. Because if you get a really good one then you may think that you are too good and don’t need to grow. If you get a bad one, then you might just stop and no go forward when you very well need to. I’m going to try to follow her advice and lead, but I have to admit I love to hear what people think about my work.

What is the toughest test you’ve faced as writer?

When my editor didn’t like my first draft and I had to rewrite the whole book from start to finish. It was hard to do this, because I had worked so hard on that draft. I didn’t want to start completely over. Writing is hard. But I did start over and the second draft was much better. It’s hard sometimes to accept criticism. In some cases, it really helps you become a better writer.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

After I finish a chapter of a book, I print out the pages and sleep with them. I love to see those pages coming off the printer. I rocked them like a newborn baby.

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

1. That sometimes you can’t take everyone with you along the journey. What’s meant for you ain’t necessarily meant for other people.

2. That everyone is not going to support what you do or see the vision you have. “Everything ain’t for everybody,” my mama always say.

3. That the road would be hard and that many sacrifices would have to be made in order for me to obtain the success I’m seeking.

How do you reach new readers?

I’ve been on facebook. It’s a great way to reach people and tell them about my book. Also blogs and Blog ADS.

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

Maya Angelou, E. Lynn Harris and Alice Walker. These are three writers who I admire and have inspired me in some way. I would love to sit down with them and just shoot the breeze sort of speak. To hear them talk about their struggles and laugh about the success they now have obtained. And listen to the advice they would have for me.

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

One do is to finish novel or book no matter how busy you are. Never stop writing. If you don’t finish, you will have nothing but regrets.

Don’t try and copy another writer’s style. Write from your own voice and experiences.

How can readers get in contact with you?

They can go to website at www.clarencenero.com and sign my email list and/or email me at cnero@clarencenero.com

Our theme for this month is AGENT HUNTING. Do you have any advice on finding a good agent?

Finding an agent is sometimes just as hard as finding a publisher to publish your novel. But if you believe in your work and have a really solid story than you will ultimately find someone interested in representing you. Do some research on books that might similar to your book. Go the acknowledgments and see who the person’s agent is. Most writers thank their agents in the acknowledgments. Contact the agent with a query letter explaining how your work is similar but different the author the agent currently have under contract.

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

It’s the final installment in the trilogy and it picks up where “Too Much of a Good Thing Ain’t Bad” ends. Tonya from the first book returns and one of my main characters die! It’s juicy and hot and exploding with drama. Things get really intense as everyone is after the sexy and hot Johnny Lomack. Everyone wants Johnny but loving him will come at a high price!

FEATURED AUTHOR: S.D. Denny

S.D. Denny began writing poetry and short stories at an early age to escape the harsh realities she faced while growing up in a Brooklyn housing project. On her journey to becoming a published author, she has written and edited training material for national organizations and volunteered as a journalist for a church magazine. In addition to her debut novel, The Baker’s Dozen, she is the author of an erotic anthology, and the forthcoming novel, Half, which is scheduled for release in 2010. She currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina with her two sons. You can visit the author on her website at www.sddenny.com.

The Baker’s Dozen

Breanna Baker felt as though her life was under control as long as she was in control of her life, but the moment she makes the startling discovery that she’s five weeks pregnant, things start to spin out of control for sure. To add fuel to the fire already burning in her life, her grandmother passes away and she returns home where she’s compelled to turn her attention to issues other than her untimely pregnancy. Breanna feels obligated to save everyone from themselves, but when she uncovers the dark secret that had been hidden by her family for years, she is forced to face herself in the mirror to discover a truth that must be reckoned with before she can go any further in her life.
　
　
What would you like readers to take away from your book?

Too often we become paralyzed and stagnated in life by our fears. I’d like readers to walk away knowing that sometimes it takes a confrontation with your greatest fears before you come to discover that they’re not so powerful after all.

Why did you choose to write this book?

I wanted to write an inspiring story which demonstrates that no matter what you’ve been through in your life, there’s always hope for a brighter tomorrow. The main character, Breanna, is like many other women who have taken on so many roles in her life that she neglects some of the things that need nurturing the most. Breanna’s story will leave you feeling renewed and possibly ready to face some challenges of your own.

What did you learn while writing this book?

From my research, I learned a great deal about depression and denial, and how they can both have a tremendous, trickling affect on our lives. Writing this story has also forced me to take a long look in the mirror at my self, and as a result, I’ve accepted that there are some things I need to work on.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

My favorite scene took place in the chapter where Breanna learned of a secret her family had been keeping. Her reaction and the conversation leading up to it were the highlight for me. That scene, in addition to the scene where she comes face to face with one of her greatest fears, is my favorite part of the book.
　
What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?

I wish they could understand that you can be as creative as your mind will allow you to be. Not everything has to be about you or someone you know. A writer’s mind, that is free, is a mind with infinite capabilities.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

I’ve learned that the value of a good editor cannot be measured. It’s a step that must not be skipped over in the process. I believe editing can greatly influence your credibility as a writer to those who read your work.

What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

Managing the job of being a single mother with writing deadlines has been challenging, but the passion I have for both pushes me to my limits.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

Readers would be surprised that I’m a closet singer. I can sing, but I am much too shy to sing in front of an audience.

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

There’s a lot more foot work involved in publishing and marketing a book than I imagined.

Organizing your information as you acquire it will cut down on a great deal of time you spend searching for it later.

There are many opportunities outside your local area, and having a travel budget would enable you to take advantage of those opportunities.

How do you reach new readers?

I strike up conversations and hand out postcards or flyers about my book to strangers at the mall, book stores, grocery stores, gas stations, anywhere! I try to make it a point to carry marketing material at all times.

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

Stephen King - I’m a die hard sci-fi and horror fan and think he’s the most creative storyteller I’ve ever read.

Toni Morrison - I find her to have the most intriguing writing style.

Mitch Albom - I’d like to pick his brain about how he came up with the idea to write Five People You Meet in Heaven.

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

Do set aside time to write because there’s always something "else" that needs to be done. Writing has to be a priority if you plan to get anywhere.

Don’t be discouraged by nay sayers, and take every opportunity to grow and perfect your craft.

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

I can be reached by email at sddenny2003@yahoo.com or on the following sites:



http://www.sddenny.com/


http://www.myspace.com/sdd4life


http://www.facebook.com/sddenny


http://www.twitter.com/sddenny


Our theme for this month is AGENT HUNTING.　 Do you have any advice on finding a good agent?

When I’m looking for any type of service provider, I like to see a portfolio of their work. I believe a literary agent should have a verifiable track record of book sales, and be willing to disclose it if asked. If they aren’t able to disclose it, you may want to continue your search.

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

My next novel, entitled HALF, is about a bi-racial woman’s struggle through life to find her identity. My goal is to pull my readers into her life so they can experience the struggle with her and see life through her eyes. It will be released in 2010.

FEATURED AUTHOR: Deidre E. Berry

Deidre E. Berry is the author of the hilarious romantic comedy THE NEXT BEST THING, as well as the Screenwriters Marketing and Resource Directory.

She currently has a two-book deal with Kensington Books, and is also a much sought-after freelance writer who provides web content for major corporations such as Reed Eisner and Time Warner.

In addition to writing novels, Deidre is also a screenwriter with several feature film scripts under her belt, one of which was optioned in 2006.

THE NEXT BEST THING

The Next Best Thing is a romantic comedy that asks: What do you do when the life you planned, is no longer part of the plan?

Tori Carter is an event planner, who is considered to be the absolute best in the business.

She has built a reputation on throwing lavish, over-the-top events, and for the past year, she has been planning her own wedding to her fiancée, Roland.

On the day of the wedding, the stage is set for this huge fairy-tale, Princess Diana-type wedding extravaganza, when Roland figures that now is a good time to let Tori know that he's in love with a woman he had previously claimed was just a good, platonic friend.

Tori spirals into a depression, which causes one of her close friends to give her a journal which she uses to help her process her emotions and everything that she goes through as she struggles to pick up the pieces of her life also learning to accept that no amount of planning can prevent the curve balls that Life sometimes throws your way.


What would you like readers to take away from your book?

That you can make all the plans you want, but God is ultimately in control. Stop trying to hold on so tight to something that God wants you to let go of, because 10 times out of 10, He has something much better in store for you somewhere down the road.

Why did you choose to write this book?

Because I wanted to write the type of book that I like to read, and I like books that make me laugh as well as feel like the characters are real people who this could have quite possibly happened in real-life.

As a matter of fact, The Next Best Thing from a real-life experience. Years ago, I was newly engaged to a guy who shall remain nameless, (but he knows who he is!) when I discovered that he was cheating on me with a mutual acquaintance of ours. Talk about drama!

Of course we broke up, and I was devastated but in the long run it turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to me, because years later, I met the greatest guy in the world, and we've been married for almost fifteen years, now.

I do have to say though, that The Next Best Thing is not autobiographical. The only thing that happened in real-life versus the book is that I had to call off a wedding before it actually took place, everything else is pure fiction.

What did you learn while writing this book?

That the cliche "You're going to be laughing about this years from now" is true. Time really does heal all wounds.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

All of them! LOL... isn't that what everybody says? But if I have to pick just one, I would say the scene in the beauty salon, when Tori is getting all this conflicting advice on how she should carry herself on her first date in years. Then the blind date goes horribly wrong, and she realizes that "Wow, I'm really back out here, and this is going to be an uphill battle."

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

When the non-writer leaves their workplace, their job is done for the day, but a writer's work is never done. We're always writing, even in our sleep.

Also, The greatest gift that you can give the writer in your life is to respect the time that they have set aside to write. If you know that your relative, friend, or spouse, writes everyday from 5-9 pm every day, then respect that enough not to call tempting them with offers to hangout and go do something else.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

I read somewhere that Maya Angelou said "it takes courage and honesty to write a book. You have to just put it all out there. Don't worry about who may be angry or hurt by what you've written. Keep it real, and don’t hold anything back. That is the reason why you went through what you went through, so that you can process it, get over it, and then help somebody else get over it."

What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

I had been working on a project for about a year, and then suddenly realized one day that I had over 300 pages worth of nothing.

Some of it was good, most of it was bad, and none of it fit the particular story I wanted to tell.

It was very humbling to have to scrap all those pages and go back to the drawing board.

That was a point where I almost gave up writing altogether, but then I realized that
everything you write serves a purpose. It may not get published, but the good news is that you got some good practice in. And it takes a certain amount of practice to be good at anything.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I'm an amateur pastry chef. I'm not quite Sylvia Weinstock, but I am good enough to the point where people come and ask me all the time to bake something for them for holidays, and church, or work functions. I bake everything from pies and cookies, to cinnamon rolls and 7-layer cakes. It's very cathartic for me, especially when I am going through a period of writer's block.

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

1) That writing a book is doable. For years, I had always wanted to write a novel, but stuck with writing screenplays because with a script it's 105 pages, and you're done. Easy! Writing a book seemed so daunting and challenging to me at the time, but I discovered that a book is written one sentence, one paragraph, and one page at a time... It is doable. You just have to give yourself time and permission to do it.

2) Respect your craft enough to set a schedule and stick to it. People with office jobs can't just show up to work whenever they feel like. If you saying you're writing for three hours that day, then write for three hours. Don't show up late, and don't leave early

3) Rewriting is NOT is an option.

How do you reach new readers?

The Internet has been valuable in helping me to reach readers in every corner of the world. I have also been doing a lot of radio lately, talking to DJs at the top 100 radio stations in the country, as well as going to literary conferences and talking to book clubs.

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

I would invite Toni Morrison, Zora Neale Hurston, and Gloria Naylor all for the same reason, and that is to pick their brains on the craft and find out what their process is for writing a book; from toying around with the idea, all the way up to the final manuscript.

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

Do you, and don't chase trends. Meaning, just because a particular genre is hot at the moment, don't put aside that mystery or romance novel that you really want to write, in order to go jump on the Erotica bandwagon, or the Christian fiction bandwagon, or whatever happens to be the flavor of the month.

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

FACEBOOK: DEIDRE BERRY, KANSAS CITY

http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/

http://www.authordeidreberry.blogspot.com/

WWW.TWITTER.COM/WRITEON777


PERSONAL E-MAIL: AUTHORDEIDREBERRY@YAHOO.COM

Our theme for this month is AGENT HUNTING. Do you have any advice on finding a good agent?

Actually, I can't add much to that conversation, because I don't have an agent at the moment, which is totally by choice.

Alot of people think that you need a literary agent in order to get your foot in the door, but that's not entirely true. I'm very proud to say that I sold The Next Best Thing to my publisher without the help of an agent. I think that if I had sat around waiting for an agent to say "yes" to me, I probably wouldn't have a two-book publishing deal right now.

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

ALL ABOUT EVA which will be published in April of 2010, and is about a New York socialite who is also the pampered girlfriend of a wealthy Wall Street executive. She's living the good life, but it all comes crashing down when her sugar daddy boyfriend is busted for shady business practices, and faces a long prison sentence.

So, now that the gravy train has stopped for her, Eva is forced to reinvent herself in the midst of being destitute, and shunned by all her high-society friends. As she struggles to put her life back together, Eva crosses paths with a bunch of endearing characters who in one way or another, help her learn the lesson that unconditional love and genuine friendships will always be worth more than money.

JULY REVIEWS 3

EDITOR’s NOTE: My apology to those waiting patiently for reviews. Due to a series of issues, our reviews were on hiatus. We are currently catching up with the reviews and will be posting more as they come in.


JUNE 2009


Best Foot Forward
Michele Sudler

Indigo Love Stories
Genesis Press, Inc.
ISBN 13 DIGIT: 978-1-58571-337-0
ISBN 10 DIGIT: 1-58571-337-6
Published JUNE 2009
Mainstream Fiction

Rating: 5 Stars – SUPREME
Reviewed by: Vicki Brooks

Author Michele Sudler put her “Best Foot Forward” when she wrote this novel. I was pulled into the story from the very beginning, starting with one of the many nightmares Tonya Perkins had been repeatedly having for years. In the dreams, she witnesses her fiancé being beaten and killed by mobsters – so she thought. This real life event has been haunting her for 3 years now and has left her a young recluse. Because of this incident she hasn’t left the doors of her home in 3 years. This is an illness she has been struggling with and working to overcome. She doesn’t have much success until her brother’s handsome frat brother, Jaimer Lambert moves in next door. He is enjoying his new place of residence while assisting Tonya with her daily struggles. Along with Jaimer, she gets lots of help, wanted or not, from her nosy family members. With both of their help she begins to make progress. She really puts her best foot forward when one of the family members gets shot and she needs to go to the hospital to ensure there’re okay. Without giving away too much of the story, it is a worthwhile read.


MAY 2009


IT’S IN THE RHYTHM
SAMMIE WARD

INDIGO LOVE STORIES
GENESIS PRESS, INC.
May 2009
ISBN: 13-978158571338-7

Rating: 4 Stars - EXCELLENT
Reviewed by: Dianthia R. Lemons

Garrett Martindale is an R&B singing sensation. Born and raised in a strict Christian home, he was not allowed to listen to secular music. Once exposed to the sounds of Marvin Gaye and Otis Redding , Garrett knew his future was singing R&B. Garrett is coming home to get a little rest and relaxation after the NAACP Awards show. He wants time with his family and there is someone else he would love to see again and her name is Trinity.

Trinity Blake is an old childhood friend of Garrett’s and is now a fifth grade school teacher. Growing up together and singing in the church choir both found happiness together. After Garrett left the church for the secular world, Trinity stopped singing and got on with her life. She has never forgotten Garrett and wants to fall in love, get married and have children. What Trinity does remember is the only date they had and wonders what would have happened if they would have remained in contact with each other.

Garrett and his sister were both raised in a strict Christian home. Instead of being a parent, their father preached to his children and for a while, they made what their father felt were horrible mistakes. Their father had to learn that children grow and have to be responsible for their own actions in life. Trinity had to learn to trust again after having her heart broken and to trust in love.

Set in Columbus Maryland, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, the story has a consistent pace that allows the reader to be in every situation and to want the good to triumph. Hoping for a good outcome and believing in the characters and the story made IT’S IN THE RHYTHM a great book for reading.

Sammie Ward did a great job writing a wonderful story.


MARCH 2009


That Devil’s No Friend of Mine
J.D. Mason

St. Martin’s Press
ISBN: 0312368852
Published: March 2009
Mainstream Friction

Rating: 4 Stars – EXCELLENT
Reviewed By: LaVern Perscell

Bishop Fontaine dies and oh how his death affects so many people. His daughter, Kristine is looked at as the poor, sheltered child. What is she going to do with herself, her father made all the decisions for her. But little do we know the secrets that she and his business partner, Lamar are keeping. Also, little do we know that what Kristine wants, she usually gets with or without that person’s knowing what is happening. J.D. Mason manages to keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next. An excellent read!


FEBRUARY 2009


Temptation and Lies
Donna Hill

Kimani Romance
Kimani Press
ISBN: 0373861001
Published: February 2009
Romance

Rating: 4 ½ Stars – EXECEPTIONAL
Reviewed by: LaVern Perscell


What happens when an orderly, precise person’s life is suddenly turned upside-down? Well, welcome to Mia Turner’s world. She is a very precise young lady who runs a successful event planning business, lives with her drop-dead handsome boyfriend and is a member of a secret organization who fights crime among the rich and famous. Everything is going great until she is given the assignment that involves a former lover who she never really said goodbye to. Will she try to relive the past or stay in the present? Dona Hill in her usual incredible writing style will keep you biting your nails to the last page. An exceptional read that I highly recommend.


JANUARY 2009


What Doesn’t Kill You
Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant

Touchstone
A Division of Simon and Schuster, Inc.
ISBN-13: 978-1-4165-6420-1
ISBN-10: 1-4165-6420-9
Published: January 2009
Mainstream Fiction

Rating: 5 Stars – SUPREME
Reviewed by: Vicki Brooks

It has been a long time since I’ve read something written in the first person, but needless to say Virginia and Donna did an outstanding job of getting (the reader) into the head of Thomasina Hodges – better known as Tee, the main character. Tee is very much real and like all of us, doing well, or so she thought until all hell breaks lose and she realizes she really controls nothing.

She has raised a beautiful daughter alone and given her the storybook wedding. She is now in the empty nest stage of life, but can’t really enjoy it because she just lost her job after twenty five loyal years of employment. Her life is turned upside down and inside out, but through it all she comes out on top. As the old folks used to say “What doesn’t kill you, will only make you stronger!” You have to read about Tee’s journey, it is one we all can relate to at one time or another.


THE HOOD LIFE
Meesha Mink and De'Nesha Diamond

Touchstone Fiction
January 2009
2009ISBN13: 978-1-465-7709-6

Rating: 4 Stars - EXCELLENT
Reviewed by: Dianthia R. Lemons

If you like reading the series "The Bentley Manor Tale", then you will surely enjoy this installment titled THE HOOD LIFE. There are three different but intertwined characters in the book. Tavon, also know as Sweet is a pimp among pimps. He is so hard core, his mother hooks for him. Demarcus is an ex-con, trying to stay on the straight and narrow but a crime he committed ten years ago, haunts his very soul. Kaseem is the village drug man who has the life, clothes and money but wants more than anything to be free of the life. Lastly there is Rhakmon, the player man, who has women at his beck and call but his downfall is his player ways and a woman.

This book covers all the entities of life in the hood. You have your pimp all the way down to your player. The problem lies when the bad guy wants to reform him or herself and others either refuse to let them seek another future. There are those people who are out there because they want what you have and will do anything to obtain it. The one thing each character learns is that things from your past will always come back into play in your future. So you should always be careful how you treat people on the way up in life because on your way down, you'll see them again. Meesha Mink and De'Nesha Diamond have once again captured the attention of true readers and did a great job intertwining the characters lives and their stories.


Sinful Chocolate
Adrianne Byrd

Kimani Romance
Kimani Press
ISBN-10: 0-373-86097-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-373-86097-5
Published: January 2009

Rating: 5 Stars – SUPREME
Reviewed by Vicki Brooks

This story is about Charlie Masters, the player of all players. You know the one that has vowed to never give up his player card; the one that has vowed to never turn in his player keys; the one that has vowed to never marry. That is until he sets his sights on Gisella Jacobs, the new girl in town who happens to be from France. Not only is she beautiful, and sexy, but that French accent is to die for. She has her own bakery, Sinful Chocolate, and wow does it live up to its name.

Coincidently, she is hired to bake the birthday cake for Charlie’s surprise birthday party. When introduced, it’s love at first sight for both of them. He is attracted to Gisella and her delectable desserts. He’s hooked! She loves his sexy smile and broad shoulders. That is until she gets the scoop from the ladies of the Lonely Hearts Club and one of Charlie’s ex-scorned souls who is very bitter and out to get back at him.

Charlie is in love for the first time in his life, but along with love comes a life and death personal crisis. Charlie has to decide what is more important – falling in love with Gisella or dealing with his personal crisis.

This is a GREAT read. The chocolate descriptions were so good; I could taste and smell the chocolates while reading it.


The Reunion
John R. Williams

Xpress Yourself Publishing, LLC
ISBN-10: 0981809448
ISBN-13: 978-0981809441
Published: January 30, 2009

Rating: 2½ Stars – GOOD
Reviewed by: Vicki Brooks


If you like erotica, the first chapter starts out with a BANG! And if you like drama mixed with a little humor, this is the read for you.

This is a story about Sean and Eva. Sean is a bald, sexy chocolate drop with dreams of becoming the next writer extraordinaire. And Eva is his soon to be Ex; she just doesn’t know it yet. She’s smart, sexy and will do anything to keep her man. And I do mean anything. While Eva’s making plans to become Mrs. Sean Jiles, he’s making plans to drop her like a hot potato. But Eva’s not taking the break up seriously; she thinks they’re getting back together.

During all of this, Sean receives an invitation to his 10 year class reunion. Immediately his mind navigates to his high school sweetheart, Jade. You’ll have to pick up the book to see who wins the prize.