Purposely Said - Dr. Linda Beed

Going On Tour
Dr. Linda F. Beed


I have often said that once you place the last punctuation on the page it is time to don your business hat.

Marketing is key to every business person. As authors an ideal sales goal is set by the publisher as to the expected amount of books to be sold. Goals are admirable, but there must be a plan in place to assist achievement of that goal. One such marketing tool that has proven effective has been the Blog Tour.

What is a Blog Tour?

In order to answer that question one must understand what a blog is. In non technical terms, a blog is an online outlet used by individuals or groups as a platform to promote their cause, support the cause of another, share their thoughts and bring attention to past, present and future enterprises.

Many serve as a place of knowledge for their chosen profession and reach a wide range of audiences. Individuals can sign up as a follower and receive alerts of new postings in real time. The option to leave comments makes the interaction all the more personal for participants. What is viewed as a bonus to this effective promotional campaign has been the advent of Blog Talk Radio. Combining the power of the two is as they say, “a match made in heaven.”

So how does the tour work?

You the author have the option of setting up own tour or securing one through your public relations liaison. The tour can be free of cost or require a fee.

You or your representative will contact hosts who are felt to be a fit for this particular tour. The tour can be at brief as one day or extend a full month.

As simple as this may seem there are key elements to consider in this process.

Consider this:

*Blogs and blog radio programs are plentiful, but they must fit your need.
Consider those with a following who: a) Read the genre you write in; b) Have a definite interest in the platform inside of your book and c) May have a possible interest in your subject matter.

*Compile a list. Possible sites can be found through online searches and word of mouth.

*Visit each site that appeals to you and read what has been presented. Note what you do and don’t like about them. Find out if you can make suggestions for your particular stop.

*Listen to a few live shows to get a feel for the host, their expectations and how they interact with guests.
NOTE: Avoid programs where there are extensive musical intros followed by a ten to fifteen minute monologue. More often than not the delay loses the audience before you come on.

*Hone your public speaking skills and make notes in order to be as sharp as possible.

*Make a list of points you want the audience to know about you, your work, how to contact you and where they can purchase your product or services. Insert at the appropriate time.

*Update your electronic media kit and have a set aside of your book to be forwarded for reading.

*Update your website if necessary.

*Do not be afraid to ask questions and be honest about your own expectations.

*Once the tour is set, you must be prompt, courteous and well-versed on your subject matter.

Equally as important as setting up a tour is advertising the event.

*Create a message and/or eye appealing promo to send to your most current list of contacts. Include pertinent information such as dates, site link, appropriate time zones (7P/PST – 9P/CST – 10P/EST) and call in number for listeners.

*Ask dependable contacts in your data base to forward the enouncement to others they believe may be interested in the tour.

*Post the tour on your website, Facebook, MySpace and other social networks.

*Set a reminder to alert you no less than thirty minutes prior to the show. Nothing is more unprofessional than not showing up for your event or arriving late. Also use a landline whenever possible in order to eliminate disruptions in transmission.

*Above all things visit the site hosting you. Respond to the questions or remarks left there. Be mindful to send a thank you to each blog host.

The above points are presented for your consideration. Only you can determine what is best for you.

Before I leave I would like to impress on you that the blog tour is not the be all for increasing sells. It will help, but its major function is create a buzz, talk about your upcoming release.

I pray that this will be of help to you and I look forward to visiting you during an upcoming tour.


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 and co-moderator of BWChristianLit an online writing and mentor group. She is also review editor for KDgospel Media Magazine.

You can find her on the web at:

http://www.lindabeed.com/ / MySpace / On Assignment Reviews / BWChristianLit

FEATURED AUTHOR: Kiara Denee

My Husband's Fiancee

Kimberly Rose is a career-driven reality television producer whose career has recently taken a slump. But when she witnesses a mistress confronting her lover and his wife in a crowded shopping mall, she immediately realizes she has the next reality show hit on her hands. Her show, My Husband's Fiancee, is born. Kimberly's personal life isn't as successful as her career. Her past is filled with damaging secrets that still haunt her dreams.When her father's health begins to decline, Kimberly's mother can't understand why she's unaffected by the tragedy. Her mother doesn't know it but Kimberly and her father also share a wicked secret. Luckily, Kimberly's love life is just as she wants it; lust-filled rendezvous with her famous, wealthy "boy toy." When he starts pressuring her for a deeper commitment, she's faced with telling him about her past or hiding it from him and hoping she's never exposed. "My Husband's Fiancee" is the best reality show you will ever read! Tune in to see whether the husband chooses to stay with his wife or marry his mistress and whether Kimberly resolves her past demons and lets love into her life.

Kaira Denee was born in Boston, MA. Both her parents were enlisted in the U.S. Army so she was raised in Germany, Texas, Louisiana, and Virginia before settling in Connecticut where she has lived for the past 14 years.

With great passion and ambition, she self-published her debut novel Take It There in 2005. In 2007 she reached a second major milestone when she signed to Urban Soul Publishing. Her second novel, Sugar's Daddy, was released in January of 2009. Kaira Denee was also a contributing author to the book Bedtime Stories 2, which will be released in December of 2009.

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

My Husband's Fiancee will challenge the thought that you can only truly love one person at a time and that love prevails through age, race, distance and even shady pasts.

Why did you choose to write this book?

My last novel, Sugar's Daddy, dealt with some serious issues including bi-polar disorder. So this time around I wanted to go back to a more lighthearted relationship novel. Love triangles happen more often than we'd like to admit and I thought that would be a relatable topic to cover. So I went to Twitter and tweeted "Is it possible to be in love with two people at once?" I got so many responses that were vehemently "no." So I wanted to challenge that because I don't feel that an emotion like love can be so black and white.

What did you learn while writing this book?

Writing this book I learned more about the psyche of a man by asking my own husband questions about fidelity. I learned that we differed on lots of topics!

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

My favorite scene in the book is when Mikelah (the wife) and Tangie (the fiancee) are put in a predicament where they are forced to lean on one another for survival. This scene is where they finally both see one another as a human being with feelings.

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

I can't turn my creativity on and off when I want to. Friends and family will tell me "I'll take the kids so you can get some writing done." And while I take advantage of the babysitting offer, sometimes the juices just don't flow. Some of my most inspirational moments happen at 1:00am when I want nothing more than to just get some sleep!!

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

From Karen E. Quinones Miller I learned that there's always room for more writers because reading a good book just makes a reader want to read another good book.

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

It definitely would be having the discipline to finish a novel while balancing work, kids, maintaining a household and a husband. I've learned to prioritize and be as organized as possible.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I think everyone would be surprised to know that I was in the National Guard. I'm such a soft spoken, girlie-girl type that no one can imagine me going through basic training with drill seargeants yelling in my face and everything. But I did and it was one of the best times of my life.

How do you reach new readers?

I utilize social networking a lot! Twitter, Facebook and Myspace have helped me reach a lot of new readers.

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

Anais Nin, Sapphire and Terry McMillan because they inspire me to hone my craft to achieve their level of literary accomplishments.

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

Do finish your manuscript before soliciting agents, publishers or advice from professionals.

Don't be afraid to ask advice of more established authors. It's been my experience that most people are empahtetic to the struggle of going from unknown to being a published author and are happy to share tips and resources.

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

Email: kairadenee@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.kairadenee.com/

Blog: http://www.idontliketheway.com/

www.myspace.com/kairadenee

Facebook: Kaira Denee

Our theme for this month is The Business Of Writing. What are three things you wished you’d known earlier that might have saved you some time/frustration in this business?

I think if I'd done research and not been so afraid to ask more advice of fellow others that I wouldn't have self published to get in the door. Although its hard to get into the publishing industry, if you have a good product and know the right people you can get through the door.

Secondly, I learned that you have to keep writing. If you do become well known your fans are going to want to read more from you so you need to be prepared.

Lastly, I don't think you need to be concerned with expensive advertising and marketing materials. Word of mouth is one of the best ways to promote a book so more than anything just keep people talking about you.

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

In December 2009 I'll be featured in the erotic anthology Bedtime Stories 2. My story is called "Purple Kisses." I'm currently writing the sequel to my first novel, "Take it There." For now, it's untitled.

Answer one of these three questions for a chance to win a copy of My Husband's Fiancee.

1. What kind of show is My Husband's Fiancee?
2. Which military service was Kaira in?
3. Name one of the authors Kaira would like to have dinner with.

Someone To Love Me Blog Tour

Meet Nicole Rouse:

Thank you so much for joining us today. Tell us about you outside of being a writer. Who closely surrounds you? Who is your support system?

Outside of being a writer, I enjoy spending time with family and close friends. They have and continue to support and encourage me as I strive to achieve my dreams.

How did you get into writing?

Although I’ve been writing since I was in elementary school, I don’t think I realized that I was a writer until college. Friends and family would ask me to help them write papers, letters, and other written documents. Then one day I read Disappearing Acts by Terri McMillan. I think I read that book in one day. The characters felt like people I knew and they dealt with issues that were real to me. I felt like I could write a story about “real” people, too. So, I went home and started writing my first novel.

Who or what inspires you to write?

Life. There are so many facets of life that can be explored and written about from different points of view. I am intrigued by relationships; what makes some successful and others fail. For this reason, I create realistic stories that explore why people react the way they do in various situations. For many of us, life is complicated. But, it is my hope that readers will not only be blessed and entertained by my stories, but that they’ll challenge themselves and open a platform for conversations to take place that will heal and/or bless others.

Tell us about your book. How did it come about? What is the concept behind it?

Someone to Love Me is a story about two people who made several bad decisions and have to deal with the consequences of their actions. Jerome Thomas and Taylor Belle were involved in a long-term affair, hurting their spouses and close friends. As readers will see through the lives of the characters, there are consequences to everything we do, good and not so good. The main characters discover that the repercussions of their decision to have an affair, not only affects them and their spouses, but it also affects everything around them– their children, family, friends, jobs, and health.

As a result of Jerome and Taylor’s affair, a child was produced. Sixteen years later, Jerome has to deal with the headstrong and defiant daughter he decided to alienate. There are several questions he has to answer and he discovers that establishing a father-daughter relationship does not come easy.

Taylor, on the other hand, finds it hard to bond with her firstborn because of guilt. She looses control of her daughter and quickly learns that she must release her burden and admit her mistakes in order to maintain a happy and healthy home.

When was this book released?

June 2009

How many books have you published? Is this your first book? If so, what was the experience like?

Someone to Love Me is my second novel and the sequel to Happily Ever Now (released in 2007). Having the opportunity to touch so many people is extremely rewarding. When I decided to write Christian fiction, it was because I wanted to create stories that would promote healthy conversations, and in some way inspire others. Many readers have shared how my first novel touched their lives, either because they shared a similar experience, or because it encouraged them to communicate better or reflect on how their lives changed as a result. The fellowship that occurred at the numerous book clubs I’ve visited have truly been a blessing. Together, the members of the book clubs and I have laughed, cried, and shared experiences that left us inspired and encouraged. It feels great to be a part of such a wonderful ministry.

What's next for you?

I am in the finishing stages of my third novel, Be Careful What You Pray For (tentatively scheduled to release in November 2010). I am also working on a play for my first novel, Happily Ever Now.

Last but certainly not least, what advice would you give an up and coming author?

Never give up! No many how many query letters you send without a favorable reply, or how many doors seem to close, continue to write and stay connected with the literary community. Being a part of a writing community very beneficial. You become exposed to so many events and opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed. You also meet different people who may be able to help you along the way. On one of my websites, I list ten great tips for new and aspiring writers in a little more detail. You can visit: http://book.nicolerouse.com/literary-matters/ for more information.

When I decided I wanted to write books, I did a lot of research. I looked for all the publishing companies that published books in my genre. I volunteered at various nonprofit organizations and local newspapers to strengthen my writing skills and gain experience. I participated in writing workshops and organizations. I also took a few college-level writing courses. All of these things have helped me during my journey. The experience and the people I interacted with along the way have all deposited something into my writing and helped to open doors that had previously been closed.

Thanks for doing the interview. We wish you much success with your book!


Someone to Love Me (June 2009, Urban Christian) shows the complexities of dealing with the after effects of an affair. The book follows the lives of Jerome Thomas and Taylor Belle, two characters introduced in Happily Ever Now (Urban Christian, 2007). Jerome Thomas has made many mistakes, but the one mistake he has the most trouble coping with is cheating on his wife. Taylor Belle has asked for God's forgiveness for her part in the affair, her marriage to a wonderful man and having four beautiful children doesn’t keep Taylor from contacting Jerome to bring closure to their past transgressions.

Someone to Love Me
Available in the Black Expressions Book Club
http://www.blackexpressions.com/
http://www.amazon.com/

ISBN: 1601629923

The Ideal Wife Blog Tour

Meet Jacquelin Thomas, author of The Ideal Wife

Jacquelin Thomas is an award winning, bestselling author with twenty-nine titles in print. Her books have garnered several awards, including two EMMA awards, the Romance In Color Reviewers Award, Readers Choice Award and the Atlanta Choice Award in the Religious & Spiritual category. Jacquelin was a 2005 honoree at the Houston Black Film Festival for the movie adaptation of her novel, Hidden Blessings. She was the first recipient to receive the Writers Achievement Award at the North Carolina Book Festival in Winston-Salem.

Although Jacquelin initially published in the romance genre, she decided to follow the call on her heart to write Christian fiction because she seeks to write books that will touch your heart and uplift your spirits with tales of characters who yearn to have an intimate relationship with God. Committed to writing books that glorify God and her growing teen audience, Jacquelin published the first of her Young Adult Inspirational Fiction series titled Simply Divine in October 2006. Her second book in the series, Divine Confidential was nominated for a 2008 NAACP Image Award. She has since gone on to publish two more books in the series. When asked why she is so passionate about writing teen novels, Thomas shares that teens are confronted with so much—sex, drugs, violence and abuse, physically and mentally. They need to not only listen to what the world says about these things but also to what the Bible says.

Jacquelin is a member of the National Writers Union, Romance Writers of America and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. She is happily married to her best friend and is the proud mother of three children. Jacquelin and her family live in North Carolina.

Jacquelin, tell us about The Ideal Wife.

Marrying a handsome, wealthy lawyer and living in a Hollywood Hills mansion...it's a dream come true for twenty-four-year-old Jana, from the moment Lawrence Collins swept her off her feet and into his luxurious world. True, she put her studies at a local Bible college on hold in order to wed after a six-month whirlwind romance. Beautiful and vivacious, with a stunning body, Jana knows men like Lawrence don't come along every day, and she vows to be a perfect companion -- the ideal wife -- to this sexy, powerful man. But at what price? From her wardrobe and hairstyle to her friends and her choice of church, Lawrence seems to want to change Jana into someone she's not...and soon, the man Jana thought she knew will test her values and her faith with a shocking revelation that goes against everything she believes. How far will Jana be willing to go to keep the man she loves?

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

I was reading about Esther and Queen Vashti in the Bible. I was very familiar with Esther’s story, but found myself wanting to know more about Queen Vashti. The King became furious when she refused his request to show off her beauty to the men in his court and basically divorced her. Some theologians believe she was not being a submissive wife, while others believe she was a woman of high moral character and her refusal was because she felt her beauty should be reserved for only one man—her husband. Then later that day, I was in my car taking my son to football practice and heard Michael Baisden talking about swingers on the radio. During his show, a woman called in, and said that she was married to a pastor and they were into the swinging lifestyle. The Ideal Wife was birthed out of my curiosity about the queen and how a Christian could justify being a swinger. How could something like that honor God’s plan for marriage?

Who are your main character(s)?

Jana and Lawrence Collins

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

Jana was my favorite. I love her courage and her strength.

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

Yes. I knew nothing about wife-swapping or the swinging lifestyle.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading The Ideal Wife?

The Ideal Wife was written to spark open conversation about sex as it relates to a Christian marriage. There are debates on whether or not swinging or wife-swapping is considered adultery—In The Ideal Wife, I attempt to guide readers into the right direction for answers.

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

I don't read my reviews.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jana Collins loves her husband with all her heart. But what if love isn’t enough?
Marrying a handsome, wealthy lawyer and living in a Hollywood Hills mansion . . . it’s a dream come true for twenty-four-year-old Jana, from the moment Lawrence Collins swept her off her feet and into his luxurious world. True, she put her studies at a local Bible college on hold in order to wed after a six-month whirlwind romance. Beautiful and vivacious, with a stunning body, Jana knows men like Lawrence don’t come along every day, and she vows to be a perfect companion—the ideal wife—to this sexy, powerful man. But at what price?

From her wardrobe and hairstyle to her friends and her choice of church, Lawrence seems to want to change Jana into someone she’s not . . . and soon, the man Jana thought she knew will test her values and her faith with a shocking revelation that goes against everything she believes—how far will Jana be willing to go to keep the man she loves? With her “ideal” marriage falling apart, Jana—the real, modest, smart, and strong girl who knows what she stands for—must put her trust in God, and follow His guiding light out of the darkness of a broken relationship.

Drawing from a moving scripture tale with an insightful message for women today, Jacquelin Thomas delivers a provocative and enlightening new novel.

Follow the blog tour at http://bit.ly/TheIdealWife

Read an excerpt at http://www.docstoc.com/docs/9653509/The-Ideal-Wife-by-Jacquelin-Thomas-(excerpt)

For more information about Jacquelin, visit her at http://www.jacquelinthomas.com

In Memory of Kate Duffy

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Kate Duffy's family and friends.

When you hear of legends in the romance industry, Kate Duffy's name always pops up. She was the editor everyone wanted to work with.

I didn't know her personally but she was a friend of SORMAG. She would send me emails about new authors. I was sadden to hear of her passing.

The romance world will never be the same. She will be missed.

Here are a few interviews she did.

http://www.aromancereview.com/columns/interviewwithkateduffy.phtml

http://wordwenches.typepad.com/word_wenches/2009/01/an-interview-with-kate-duffy-.html

If you have a Kate memory please share it here.

Forsaken Blog Tour

Meet Vanessa Miller, author of Forsaken

Vanessa, tell us about Forsaken.

Forsaken is the story of a fallen preacher’s journey back to God. The synopsis reads:

Pastor Jerome Tyler “JT” Thomas is charismatic behind the pulpit, charming to all he comes in contact with, and lethal to those who linger too long. Since the age of twenty-two, when he prayed for God to keep him out of prison, JT knew he would preach the gospel. Bishop Turner makes it possible; but there are strings attached, and now JT isn't sure he can stay tied down.

Cutting loose causes more problems than JT anticipated. When an old friend from his days on the streets resurfaces and his extracurricular activity comes knocking on his front door, JT’s life and the lives of those close to him spiral out of control. Now he will need divine intervention to make things right. But how much help can a man hope to receive when he feels he’s been forsaken by God?

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

There has been so many stories in the media about pastors who have fallen, that I wanted to write a book that shows people what needs to happen when you find yourself in a fallen state. This book is not just for fallen pastors, but any Christian who falls – it’s a book that shows that you can get back up.

Who are your main character(s)?

Pastor Jerome Tyler (JT) Thomas and his wife, Cassandra

Did you have a favorite character(s)? Who and why?
I really felt Cassandra’s pain in this story and the sequel, title (Forgiven) so she would have to be my favorite character in this series.

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

I want readers to know that God is a forgiving God. Therefore, if any of us fall, we can turn back to God with a repentant heart, because He has grace and mercy for his people.

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

They are very important to me. I have to admit, I read all of my reviews and enjoy the fact that readers gain a better understanding having a relationship with Jesus Christ after reading my novels.

Follow the blog tour at http://bit.ly/Forsaken.

For more information about Vanessa, visit her at http://www.vanessamiller.com/.

PRIZE WINNERS

I'm the process of sending off the prizes for the conference.

I've been waiting on a few addresses and I haven't received the following:
Stephanie McKenny
La Monica
Diamond McKenzie
Amelia
Faith
Consuella
Kandie
C.M. Jones
Linda Chavis
Book Lover in Cali
Chris
Melsha Olgen
Karen Brown
Kimberly Cauley
Angela Anmiri Riley
Mary Thomas


If I don't hear from you by the 30th, I'll assume you don't want the prize.

For those who won prizes, if you haven't received your prizes by the end of October, please let me know.

BLOG TOUR: Del Rio Bay Clique Series

In 2007 Paula Chase Hyman introduced us to Mina Mooney a teenager at Del Rio Bay High. Five books later we’re still loving us some Mina.

Have you been missing out on the fun?

Meet Paula and Mina.

Del Rio Bay Clique Series

So Not the Drama

Hoping Del Rio Bay High will live up to her greatest expectations, Mina has big plans for infiltrating the school's social glitterati. After all, she's been mad popular for as long as she can remember—and she isn't about to go from Middle School Royalty to High School Ambiguity. But Del Rio Bay is a big school, so it'll take some plotting to avoid getting lost in the crowd. Good thing she isn't afraid of a little hard work—and that her playground peeps, Lizzie, Michael, and JZ, have got her back.

But it isn't long before Mina's big plans for securing her social status take a back seat to some drama that was so not expected. Lizzie's scored an invite from the beautiful people that Mina can only dream about, and not only is Michael tripping about being back in school, but now he's beefing with JZ. Worst of all, Mina's sociology class experiment to rid the world—or at least Del Rio Bay High—of prejudice is about to backfire. Because it might just mean she'll have to rid herself of her very best friend...

Read an Excerpt - http://www.paulachasehyman.com/drama1.php


Don't Get It Twisted

Mina Mooney's parents are killing her social life. It's time to fight back.

Mina's fantasy has finally come true. Craig Simpson-the hottest guy at Del Rio Bay High-has just invited her to the biggest bash of the year. There's just one hitch— her parents aren't down with letting Mina date a boy they know nothing about. Now she has thirteen days to give her parents a crash course in Craig, or else figure out how to get her fine self to the soiree-without alerting mom and pops. Whatever she decides, she's going to need reinforcements.

Unfortunately, her peeps are caught up in their own twists and turns. Jacinta's boyfriend has been getting on her nerves about spending so much time in `burbville, while rich and sheltered Kelly just might kick it with Angel, a cute, slick-talking hustler from the projects. And ever since JZ made varsity basketball, his mind has been glued to the game instead of schoolwork, which means his dad might make him drop all sports. As for Mina, if she doesn't succeed in enlisting the help of her friends-and fast-her social life just might hit skid row.

A fast-paced novel about loyalty, love, and friendship, Don't Get It Twisted shows what it takes to have a blast while breaking all the rules.

Read an Excerpt - http://www.paulachasehyman.com/twisted1.php

That's What's Up!

Mina Mooney is about to discover that when you're at the top, the only place to go is down.

It's springtime in Del Rio Bay, and everyone's heading to the O.C. to catch the varsity cheer squad compete at the Extreme Nationals. Everyone's pumped, especially Mina Mooney, because making the elite squad has finally gained her entrance into the Upper Circle. Mina's psyched for the big show-and some unsupervised cuddle time with Brian. Best of all, her number-one enemy, Jessica, has shocked everyone by calling a truce. But little does she know that Jessica's peace offer is nothing more than a disguise for what she really has in store for Mina.

Spring break means all sorts of trouble for Mina's friends, too. Lizzie, whose focus has never strayed from the books, is boy crazy for the first time in her life. Kelly's decision to give ex-hustler Angel another chance just might backfire. And Jacinta is having a hard time breaking things off with Raheem-even when he does something utterly unforgivable.

Fun, fast-paced, and impossible to put down, That's What's Up! proves that when it comes to popularity, you better watch your back.

Read an Excerpt – http://www.paulachasehyman.com/whatsup1.php


Who You Wit'?

Mina Mooney has a new worst enemy-her best friend.

Summer is just around the corner, but things are already too hot to handle in Del Rio Bay. Mina's so sprung over Brian that she's having a hard time just thinking straight. So, she's not at all ready when her best friend Lizzie makes their clique swear to a year-long virginity pact...

Now Mina and her crew are feeling way too much heat. Kelly is glad to take things slow with cute jock Greg-but ex-hustler Angel isn't about to let her go drama-free. For Jacinta, a missed period and Raheem planning "their" future together is promising nothing but trouble. And when Lizzie finds out Mina has "betrayed" the pact, it's a head-to-head, no-holds-barred showdown that could say hasta la vista to the clique for good.

Read an Excerpt – http://www.paulachasehyman.com/wit1.php



Flipping the Script

It's junior year at Del Rio Bay High, and from near and far, the guys are taking center stage...

Now that Mina's boyfriend Brian is off to Duke University, life in Del Rio Bay is lonely. And Brian's busy schedule as a Duke baller isn't helping. As the season heats up and the phone calls get fewer, Mina's insecurity increases—and so does Brian's impatience with it. But he's not the only guy in the clique dealing with craziness.

Michael's passion for fashion has led to a chance to attend a special creative arts program in D.C. He knows he should jump on it, but leaving home is harder than he thought. He turns to his dancer friend Rob for support, but Rob's presence around the clique triggers star athlete JZ's feelings of homophobia. As JZ's discomfort simmers, his feelings get the best of him when he finds himself seriously attracted to Jacinta—and discovers she's on a different page.

With relationships in the balance and friendships at risk, Flipping the Script challenges the guys to step up when the stakes are high.

Read an Excerpt – http://www.paulachasehyman.com/flipping.php


Author Paula Chase Hyman has written for Girls’ Life, Sweet 16, and Baltimore Magazine among others. Her Del Rio Bay series launched Kensington Books YA line in 2007. It paved the way for the growing number of popular fiction YA books targeted to multi-culti suburbanite teens. The five part series includes the '07 debut, So Not The Drama. Chase calls her brand of teen literature, Hip lit, a nod to the diversity spawned by the MTV-watching, 106th & Park-ing, pop culture hungry hip hop generation. Not happy with the lack of awareness African American authors writing for children were receiving among gatekeepers, Chase started The Brown Bookshelf with four other children’s authors in October 2007. The group’s flagship initiative, 28 Days Later, spotlights both under-the-radar authors and pioneers in children’s lit. The author lives outside of Annapolis , MD with her husband and two daughters.

http://www.paulachasehyman.com

BLOG TOUR: What Is This Love Thing All About?

Corey J. Barnes is a long time native of Lakeland, Florida. Currently he resides there with his son Corey Jr. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and is currently working on his PhD in Instructional Leadership and Adult Education.

Becoming an author and also establishing the publishing company CJ Publishing has fulfilled a lifelong dream for Corey as he attempts to bring true romance and integrity back to urban fiction, from a male perspective, hence his moniker, “The Renaissance Man of Romance”.

In his debut novel What Is This Love Thing All About? Corey displays that chivalry is not dead and the thrill of the chase is still present in today’s world. Presently, Corey is working on his second novel. In addition to his work as a middle school administrator, Corey also coaches high school boys basketball and his son’s little league football team. When he is not writing, he enjoys spending time with his son and working out.


What Is This Love Thing All About?

Be careful what you wish for... Is what you think you want... Really what you need?

Meet Rick Jenkins, who has everything that most would love to have in life. Great job, great looks, well educated, money, he has it all, except for one thing – a woman to share it with. A single and eligible bachelor, Rick can’t seem to even find a good woman to go on a date with, much less to think about take it to the next level. Rick is content to take life as it is until one night at a sorority fund raising function, he runs into Aphrodite Morrison and his fate changes forever.

Aphrodite is a mysterious, yet angelic woman who Rick is lost for from the first minute he talks to her. A partner in one of the top advertising companies in the Greater Atlanta area, she does not have a want for anything. There is another side to Aphrodite that looms under the surface. When she thinks she has met the perfect man, her past threatens everything that she thinks may be meant for her and happening with Rick. Fate collides with destiny and creates doubt; does anyone really know: What is this Love Thing All About?


Where were you born?

I was born in Lakeland, Florida.

Education background?

I attended and graduated from Kathleen High School in Lakeland, Fl. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Education, specializing in Specific Learning Disabilities and Elementary Education from University of South Florida. I then obtained my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University. I am currently working on my PhD in Adult Education and Instructional Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

What's your inspiration or who is?

My inspiration in all that I do is my son, CJ. He is the very best part of me and is the reason I wake up in the morning. He is my heartbeat and my motivation.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?

When I was a child I had dreams of either being a pro football player or a lawyer. As you can see, neither one of them took place.

Did you ever think you'd ever become an author?

I never thought I would become an author. I love to read, but I didn’t think I would ever do it myself, even though it was one of my goals. It was one of those things where you think about something but know it will never be, but it has and it is very exciting.

How long does it take you to write a book?

It took me a total of 8 months to write my first book. I actually wrote the first character in 5 months, and went back and added in the 2nd, which took 3 more months.

When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I wrote my first book, What Is This Love Thing All About at the age of 32.

Whose writing do you admire most?

The author whose style I admire the most is Eric Jerome Dickey. I also enjoy Dwayne Joseph’s style.

Were you a good student in school?

I was actually a very good student in school.

Tell me about your revision process.

I usually read from the back to the front for corrections needed. Doing it this way makes the story pretty much gibberish and in that sense, I can just concentrate on making sure that sentence structure and things of that nature are correct.

Did you like school? What was your favorite subject?

I enjoyed school. I am a life long learner and look to continually improve myself. My favorite subject in school was English, which helped me with being an author and the next subject was Math. I hated Science in school, but did it because I had too.

WIN THIS BOOK: The Million Dollar Demise

The Million Dollar Demise
by RM Johnson

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Group
Pub. Date: September 2009
ISBN-13: 9781416596264


The tension and suspense are ramped up to new highs in this eagerly anticipated final installment in Essence bestselling author RM Johnson's Million Dollar trilogy.

Picking up where The Million Dollar Deception left off, Freddy Ford knocks on Nate Kenny's door, storms into the house, and shoots both Nate and his ex-wife Monica. But he doesn't stop there — before driving off, Freddy manages to escape with little Nathaniel, Nate and Monica's beloved adopted son, while little Layla sleeps upstairs.

Nate is expected to survive the brutal attack, but Monica is left in a coma, and doctors are not certain that she will ever recover. When Lewis Waters — Freddy's best friend and Layla's actual father — visits the hospital to see Monica, Nate bargains with him: if Lewis can get Freddy arrested, Nate will give him back his little girl.

Meanwhile, Daphanie Coleman, the woman Nate had planned to marry before he sought revenge on Monica, rushes to Nate's side with plans to get him back by making herself available to him in his time of crisis. By chance, she meets Lewis while visiting Monica's bedside, and the two devise a plan to both get what they want.

When Monica finally awakens, she opens her eyes to a world in which Daphanie and Nate are hiding an affair, Lewis and Daphanie are harboring nasty secrets, and Nate has plotted to steal another man's child in the name of revenge. Will Monica forgive Nate, whom she was about to remarry? Will she uncover the truth behind the love triangle of Daphanie, Lewis, and Nate? And, more important, can the tragic lovers escape a second attempt on their lives?

RM Johnson is the author of seven novels, including bestsellers The Harris Family and The Million Dollar Divorce. He holds an MFA in creative writing from Chicago State University and is a native of Chicago, where he currently resides.

Visit RM Johnson's website at www.RMnovels.com.


Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of The Million Dollar Demise (we have five copies to giveaway)

Deadline 11:00PM Sep 22, 2009

BLOG TOUR: Have a New Husband by Friday

Have a New Husband by Friday: How to Change His Attitude, Behavior and Communication in 5 Days
by Kevin Leman

Baker Publishing Group
Pub. Date: October 2009
ISBN-13: 9780800719128


Have a new husband by Friday? Is that even possible? Dr. Kevin Leman says it is. The New York Times bestselling author and self-help guru shows even the most frustrated wife how she can have a new husband by Friday. Leman reminds any wife that if what she's doing to get better behavior out of her husband isn't working now, it never will. So it's time for a change. That means it's time to change her own patterns of behavior. Here's how Leman suggests she handle it day to day:

Monday: Secrets Revealed: Cracking the Male Code
Yes, you're different species, but you can work together in harmony.

Tuesday: Creatures from Another Planet . . . or Creatures of Habit?

To understand men, you have to track 'em to their den.

Wednesday: Think about What You Want to Say, Then Divide It by Ten

How to talk so your guy will really listen . . . and listen so your guy will really talk.

Thursday: Think of Him as a Seal Waiting for a Three-Pound Fish

Why making love to your man is a key to who he is and how satisfied he'll be, and what's in it for you.

Friday: It Takes a Real Woman to Make a Man Feel like a Real Man

How to open your man's heart, revolutionize your love life, and turn him into the knight you've always dreamed of.

Dr. Kevin Leman is an internationally known psychologist, humorist, and bestselling author of The Birth Order Book and Have a New Kid by Friday. He is former consulting psychologist for Good Morning America and a frequent guest on The View, The Early Show, and Focus on the Family. He and his wife, Sande, live in Tucson, Arizona. They have five children and two grandchildren.

You Were Born For This Blog Tour

His New York Times phenomenon The Prayer of Jabez changed how millions pray. Now Bruce Wilkinson wants to change what they do next.

Anyone can do a good deed, but some good works can only happen by a direct intervention from God. Around the world these acts are called miracles—not that even religious people expect to see one any time soon. But what would happen if millions of ordinary people walked out each morning expecting God to deliver a miracle through them to a person in need? You Were Born for This starts with the dramatic premise that everyone at all times is in need of a miracle, and that God is ready to meet those needs supernaturally through ordinary people who are willing to learn how Heaven works.

In the straightforward, story-driven, highly motivating style for which he is known, Wilkinson describes how anyone can help others experience miracles in such universally significant arenas of life as finances, practical help, relationships, purpose, and spiritual growth.

You Were Born for This will change how readers see their world, and what they expect God can do through them to meet real needs. They will master seven simple tools of service, and come to say with confidence, “I want to deliver a supernatural gift from God to someone in need today—and now I know how!”


Author Bios:

One of the world’s foremost Christian teachers, Bruce Wilkinson is best known as the author of the New York Times #1 bestseller The Prayer of Jabez. He is also the author of numerous other bestsellers, including A Life God Rewards, Secrets of the Vine, and The Dream Giver. Over the past three decades, Wilkinson has founded several global initiatives, including organizations that recruited and trained thousands of Americans to address hunger, AIDS, and poverty in Africa . Bruce and his wife, Darlene, have three children and six grandchildren. They live outside Atlanta .

David Kopp has collaborated with Bruce Wilkinson on over a dozen bestselling books, including The Prayer of Jabez. He is an editor and writer living in Colorado .

Girl, Naw! Blog Tour

Meet LaCricia A’ngelle, author of Girl, Naw!


Tell us about Girl, Naw!

Girl, Naw! is the story of Antoinette Walker, a Christian counselor for women. The story outlines the lives of the women Antoinette counsels as well as her own life and issues. Antoinette takes a special interest in one of her clients that will lead to some unexpected decisions. Being confronted with people from her past that have hurt her in various ways, Antoinette is challenged to forgive them in order to possess the freedom she desires.

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

Similar to Antoinette I was in a position in which I was asked to counsel many people. On several occasions I noticed some of these people viewed my life as being perfect, which raised the question -who counsels the counselor. That thought was the basis for Girl, Naw!

Who are your main character(s)?

My main characters are Antoinette Walker, Maurice Walker- Antoinette's husband, Yvette King -Antoinette's best friend,

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

My favorite character is definitely Yvette. I like Yvette because she is so funny. She says whatever is on her mind, and although she has an odd way of saying things, she actually makes sense. She reminds me a lot of myself.

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

No, I didn't do a lot of research for Girl, Naw! I relied on past experiences for myself and others that I know.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading Girl, Naw?

I hope readers will learn the power of true forgiveness. I also hope reading Girl, Naw! will help people to not be so judgmental of others because we never really know what's going on behind the scenes of someone's life.

Follow the blog tour at http://bit.ly/GirlNaw

For more information about LaCricia, visit her at http://lacriciaangelle.com/

In Memory of Patrick Swayze

I was introduced to Patrick as a teenager, he starred in “The Outsiders”. I had read the book and couldn’t wait to see who Ponyboy’s family was being played by. Patrick was the older brother and a hunk. I remember tearing his picture out of the teen magazine and taping it to my wall. My infatuation started.

I loved all the movies he played in, but my all time favorites are, Dirty Dancing and Ghost. I can watched them over and over again like I never seen them before.

I bought both soundtracks to the Dirty Dancing movie because I loved the music. “Do You Love Me” always reminds me of the time period of my life in San Diego.

I was heartbroken to hear of his death. I knew he had pancreas cancer but it still hurt to know his smiling face will never grace another movie theater. When I think of Movie Stars, Patrick face will always come to mind.

I’ll miss you Patrick. My deepest sympathy goes out to the Swayze family, friends and fans.

If you have a favorite Patrick memory or movie, share it here.


She's Like the Wind

She's like the wind through my tree
She rides the night next to me
She leads me through moonlight
Only to burn me with the sun
She's taken my heart
But she doesn't know what she's done

Feel her breath on my face
Her body close to me
Can't look in her eyes
She's out of my league
Just a fool to believe
I have anything she needs
She's like the wind

[SOLO]

I look in the mirror and all I see
Is a young old man with only a dream
Am I just fooling myself
That she'll stop the pain
Living without her
I'd go insane

Feel her breath on my face
Her body close to me
Can't look in her eyes
She's out of my league
Just a fool to believe
I have anything she needs
She's like the wind

Feel your breath on my face
Your body close to me
Can't look in your eyes
You're out of my league
Just a fool to believe
(Just a fool to believe)
She's like the wind
(Just a fool to believe)
Just a fool to believe
(She's like the wind)
Just a fool to believe
(Just a fool to believe)
She's like the wind
(Just a fool to believe)
Just a fool to believe
She's like the wind

(Just a fool...)
(She's like the wind)
(She's like the wind)
(Just a fool...)
(She's like the wind)
(Just a fool...)

SEEK AND FIND

SORMAG celebrates 9 years this month. I thought it would be fun to see how much you know about SORMAG. Each Friday I will host a SEEK and FIND. Some of the answers can be found on the blog, some you have to search online.

The person with the most correct answers will win a SORMAG Goody Bag.

Here are the questions:

Where did SORMAG first began?

Who was the first cover author?

What does SORMAG stand for?

What did LaShaunda try to change the name to?

Who was the first interview for 2009?

Who was SORMAG's Author of The Year

Who was our first Blog interview?

When was our first online conference?

Where was it held?

Who is the Live Conference Scholarship named for?

BOOK INTRO: After The Feeling

After The Feeling
T.N. Williams


Urban Christian
ISBN-10: 1601629885
ISBN-13: 978-1601629883

Christian Fiction

Pornography was once an acceptable element of the Wilson marriage, but a particular incident stretches Germani's comfort zone to the limit. When she reevaluates her Christian beliefs and decides to make a change, Germani quickly learns that Scott doesn't agree with her decision. Germani's request that her husband sacrifice his longtime activities falls on deaf ear.

Germani and Scott discover the magnitude of their differences as their lives become tainted. Frustration and judgment test their love for each other. A strain on their relationship develops as they battle over individual ideals and seek advice from every source except the one that matters most. Ultimately, it will take a greater influence from God if their marriage is to be saved.

Chapter Excerpt

October 11, 2007

9:58 p.m.

The fateful call came in.

The credits to a re-run episode of Grey's Anatomy had begun to play.

I didn't answer on the first ring.

I was too busy wallowing in aggravation and exhaustion as I devoured a plate full of grease-laden buffalo wings and mozzarella sticks.

My husband, Scott's, porn obsession was wearying me out. Nothing I said or did seemed to matter. My feelings of confusion, shame, loneliness and rejection were ignored by the man I vowed to love unconditionally; wasted on deaf ear like a bruised apple tumbling from a windblown tree.

Scott's attention was consumed by sexual images on his computer from the Internet, DVD's from the local sex shops, and those videos from Pay-Per-View. It was more than I could handle. More than I knew how to deal with. Maybe if he acknowledged how bad things were, we wouldn't be at ends. Maybe. But he kept making excuses; justifying his actions at the expense of our family.

There's only so much understanding that a woman can give before...enough becomes enough.

It brought to mind when I saw a colorful logo on the bumper sticker of a Yugo parked at the grocery store that read 'SEX SELLS'. Made me think it was too bad that same statement didn't come with a warning.

Sex kills too.

The phone's ringing interrupted my sulking.

I was willing to let that call go to voicemail, but curiosity compelled me to answer just from the phone number flashing across my television.

“Germani?” an anguished voice cracked after I answered.

The caller on the other end of the line was familiar, but sounded in worse condition than I felt. I couldn't put my finger on it. There was no other definition to describe the conversation beyond peculiar. When the caller made a shocking confession I saw warning signs and red flags go up all around me.

I put the caller on hold while I went to the bathroom to wash the remnants of my meal from my greasy hands. The caller needed better advice than I could give. I was clueless on how I'd help 'em with my own thoughts all messed up. But I knew I had to do something. On the way back to the family room I grabbed a New King James Bible off the bookshelf near the computer center and flipped through as I walked. I tried to find the right words amongst the pages as my mind drew blanks. By the time I made it back to the phone with Bible in clean hands, a busy signal blared through and the caller was gone.

My heart quickened as I thought about what to do next.



10:41 p.m.

Blood

There was blood everywhere when I made it to the caller's home. Deep crimson streaks that saturated vanilla satin sheets and rained burgundy droplets onto the Persian area rug beneath the bed.

I stood planted against the door frame like a wisteria vine attached to aluminum siding. I was too afraid to step in the room and too disturbed to walk away.

Music was playing. The eighties song “Real Love” by a group named Skyy ended. An eerie silence penetrated the air for just a few seconds. The song began to play again. Somebody had put it on repeat.

Don’t be afraid of the way you feel.

Fear came quickly. I was too late.

I couldn't think as my eyes stayed locked on the crimson streaks, mesmerized like a teenager on an acid trip. Dazed and stunned, my lips slowly opened as my brain processed. I was in the middle of a gory crime scene and somebody was dead...murdered. Suddenly terror filled the once irritated space of my abdomen where aggravation was devoured by panic and I screamed at the top of my lungs.

Website address - www.tnwilliams.com

PURPOSELY SAID - Dr. Linda F. Beed

What’s That I Hear?
By Dr. Linda F. Beed


One of the fastest growing and effective mediums for authors is the World Wide Web.

With the emergence of teleconferences and blogtalk radio, reaching the masses has been made easier and more cost effective than ever before.

What has not changed is the necessity to conduct business in a professional manner. The inability to see your audience does not negate your responsibility to respect their investment of time in you.

Before accepting your first or your next on air engagement consider the following:

• Get the Pertinent Information

Know the date, time and dial-in number no less than one week prior to engagement.
Confirm time zones to assure your timeliness and to appropriately schedule your online promotions.

• Advance Preparation

Be honest about your knowledge of the proposed topic. If the subject matter is out of your area of expertise, let it go.

If it is within your knowledge base, update materials in order to be on point.

Have announcements for your social networks and online groups ready for posting within the appropriate timeline.

Have all available handouts available for emailing or ready to post on site one week in advance of program.

Make notes to refer to and to help keep your thoughts organized.
Make list of your online contacts to read on air.

• Familiarization

Take the time to listen to prior broadcasts in order to become familiar with the program format and host’s style.

• Food

Cease from eating at least one hour prior to broadcast.
Do not eat or drink during broadcast.
If you develop a dry throat, take small sips of water when necessary.

• Background

Radio microphones are very sensitive. If possible be away from others.
Turn off televisions, radios and cell phone.

• Online Etiquette

Turn your telephone speaker up.
Talk at a level where you can be heard.
Do not talk over your host.
Be courteous to callers and other guests.
Thank your host for the opportunity, verbally and via online or written note.

• Tone

Voice inflection tells people more about what you feel than what you say does.
You may not agree with the point of view of your host of fellow panelist, but your point can be made without being offensive.

These basic points are valuable for you and your listening audience. Those tuning in have invested their time in you. Time is a commodity that cannot be redeemed. It is your job to make sure that their time was not wasted.


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 and co-moderator of BWChristianLit an online writing and mentor group. She is also review editor for KDgospel Media Magazine.

You can find her on the web at:

http://www.lindabeed.com/ / MySpace / On Assignment Reviews / BWChristianLit

It’s Our Anniversary

SORMAG turned 9 years old this month.

I can still remember sitting up all night trying to get the first issue online. I think I drove myself crazy the next day, checking the counter to see if anyone was looking at it. My first reader, clicked on and we were official, Shades Of Romance Magazine made its mark on the web.

We have evolved to an interactive magazine and I love it. We just finished our sixth online conference, and I’m looking forward to the upcoming months and year.

I have tons of books in my basement and I need to get rid of them before my husband throws them away like he promises. So this month, I’m giving away goodybags. They will be a surprise because you could get a book from 2000 or one published in 2009. This is my way to say thank you to our loyal readers.

You have three ways to win.

1. You can post comments all month for a chance to win.

2. I will be picking out winners from our mailing list. If you haven’t joined our mailing list this is the time to join.

3. I will be picking out winners from our social media (twitter and facebook). If you’re not following SORMAG or my friend on facebook, here’s your chance to connect.


I thank you for being a part of SORMAG and I look forward to many more years of introducing you to the hottest books on the shelves, and helping you on your writing journey.

BLOG TOUR: Sins Of The Father

Meet Angela Benson, author of Sins of the Father

Tell us about Sins of the Father.

I really like how the back cover describes the book:

Sins of the Father is a powerful story of a house bitterly divided—a rich, multilayered family saga of betrayal and redemption, rage and compassion, faith, forgiveness, and ultimately, of love. Successful media mogul Abraham Martin has great wealth, an elegant wife, Saralyn, and a rebellious son, Isaac. He also has a secret: a second family that no one knows about. Now, after thirty years—driven by the urging of his long dormant conscience—Abraham is determined to do the right thing by finally bringing his illegitimate children into the light…and into the family fold.

How did you come up with ideas for this book?

The idea for Sins of the Father came from the biblical story of Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Sarah's son's Isaac and Hagar's son Ishmael. I wondered how Ishmael felt and what would have happened if Abraham had later claimed him as his son.

Who are your main character(s)?

Like most of my books, Sins of the Father has an ensemble cast. The major players are Abraham Martin, his wife Saralyn and their son Isaac; and Leah Thomas and the two children she had with Abraham, Michael and Deborah. Then there's Isaac's wife, Rebecca, and Michael's wife, Josette.

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

I liked them all, but Saralyn has a special place in my heart. She's not the nicest person but I really understood why she behaved the way she did so I couldn't hate her. Sometimes it seems easier to make a problem go away rather than to deal with it. She just wanted her problem to go away.

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

Not a lot, but I did have to research a few health issues because I used them in the book.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading Sins of the Father?

I want absentee fathers to realize how much their children need them, regardless of the children's ages. I want the children of absentee fathers to forgive them. And if there's a chance for reconciliation, I want them to explore it and not let past hurts keep them from knowing a parent. Above all, I want these children to realize that God will be a father even if their biological father is not present. I know this to be true because it was true for me.

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

I like good ones and bad ones make me feel down for a minute or two. I've gotten philosophical about it though. If everybody loves my book, it means that I didn't have good distribution. I don't expect everybody who reads my work to enjoy it. I don't think that's realistic.

About the Book

Successful media mogul Abraham Martin has great wealth, an elegant wife, Saralyn, and a rebellious son, Isaac. He also has a secret: a second family that no one knows about. Now, after thirty years—driven by the urging of his long dormant conscience—Abraham is determined to do the right thing by finally bringing his illegitimate children into the light…and into the family fold.

But beautiful, manipulative Saralyn will never accept the proof of her husband’s indiscretions. Isaac the heir, shaken by his father’s revelations, will fight mercilessly when his world is threatened, and may lose everything that matters as a result. And while Abraham’s forgotten daughter Deborah is open to the undreamed-of possibilities suddenly awaiting her, son Michael cannot forgive the man who cruelly abandoned them to near poverty. And he’s driven by only one desire: revenge!


Angela Benson’s Sins of the Father is a powerful story of a house bitterly divided—a rich, multilayered family saga of betrayal and redemption, rage and compassion, faith, forgiveness, and ultimately, of love.

Follow the blog tour at http://bitly.com/SinsoftheFather.

For more information about Angela, visit her at http://angelabenson.com/.

Perfect Labor Day Beverage: Coca-Cola Aluminum Bottles

Arriving just in time to keep you cool during the hottest days of summer, Coca-Cola announces the arrival of the new aluminum bottles!

The redesigned packaging incorporates the classic iconic Coca-Cola look in a stylish 8.5 oz bottle that serves to keep beverages cooler longer, while also offering the perfect taste and carbonation. Varieties available include Coca-Cola classic®, Coke Zero™ and Diet Coke®.

The stylish aluminum bottle design is the perfect companion for pool parties, beach days and nights out on the town. The aluminum bottles are available at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills , California and at bars on Sunset Blvd. in Los Angeles , California .

CONGRATS TO OUR WINNER: Rhonda M.