The Little Black Book of Success: Laws of Leadership for Black Women
Written by Elaine Meryl Brown, Marsha Haygood and Rhonda Joy McLean
The Little Black Book of Success Video Launch
Little Black Book is a #1 Bestseller on Amazon in the "Management and Leadership" category!
In this engaging and invaluable “mentor in your pocket,” three dynamic and successful black female executives share their strategies to help all black women, at any level of their careers, play the power game—and win.
Rich with wisdom, this practical gem focuses on the building blocks of true leadership—self-confidence, effective communication, collaboration, and courage—while dealing specifically with stereotypes (avoid the Mammy Trap, and don’t become the Angry Black Woman) and the perils of self-victimization (don’t assume that every challenge occurs because you are black or female).
Some leaders are born, but most leaders are made—and The Little Black Book of Success will show you how to make it to the top, one step at a time.
Praise for The Little Black Book of Success
“Good counsel comes to us in myriad ways. The Little Black Book of Success clearly qualifies as one. It’s chock full of sound and thoughtful advice on how to build a successful business career. I commend it not just to black women, but to anyone seeking wisdom on leadership and success.”
—Richard Parsons, Chairman, Citigroup
“The Little Black Book of Success is, without a doubt, one of the most comprehensive and relevant books that women can read to achieve the job success they desire. It answers the tough questions, offers experience-based insights, and outlines strategies that are sure to make you a front-runner in the race to workplace excellence.”
—Elaine McCollins Flake, Co-Pastor, Greater Allen Cathedral
Excerpt from Chapter Three- The Little Black Book of Success
Racism Is No Excuse, but It Can Be a Motivator
As a Black women in America, you will be confronted by or exposed to racism, but instead of getting angry, letting it defeat you, get the best of you, keep you down, prevent you from growing, exploring, realizing your full potential, and manifesting your dreams, use racism as a motivator to accomplish your goals.
Allow the racism that exists to move you in a forward direction and make you all the more determined to achieve your goals so that no outside forces throw you off balance and make you lose focus on what it is you set out to achieve. In this case, your objective is to acquire the skill sets necessary to become a good leader, a better leader in the workplace.
A recent Harvard University study reveals that while most fair-minded managers judge you according to your merits, there are some who judge you according to unconscious stereotypes and attitudes. It’s the kind of prejudice that is not overt. It’s prejudice that’s subconscious and made through associations that are learned early on. Things commonly associated with each other like thunder and lightning, or gray hair and old age, don’t always coexist.
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Excerpted from The Little Black Book of Success by Elaine Meryl Brown, Marsha Haygood, and Rhonda Joy McLean Copyright © 2010 by Elaine Meryl Brown. Excerpted by permission of One World/Ballantine, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
ELAINE MERYL BROWN, former VP, Special Markets and Cinemax Group at HBO, is an Emmy® Award-winning writer and producer who has won numerous awards in the broadcast industry. In 2007, Brown was chosen as one of The Network Journal’s “25 Influential Black Women in Business.” A favorite of Black Enterprise, she was featured in the magazine and at their Women of Power Summit. A Wheaton College Alumni Trustee and member of the Coalition of 100 Black Women (Bergen/Passaic Chapter), Brown is also the author of two novels published by One World. She lives in New Jersey.
MARSHA HAYGOOD is a powerful motivational speaker and a dynamic career and personal coach. She is the founder of StepWise Associates, LLC, a career and personal development consultancy that represents the culmination of her 25+ years experience in human resources. She was the EVP of Human Resources and Administration at New Line Cinema and at Orion Pictures, among other companies. Haygood has won numerous awards including the YMCA Black Achievement Award and the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources Trailblazer Award. In 2005, Haygood was chosen as one of The Network Journal’s “25 Influential Black Women in Business.” She and her husband live in New York and Florida.
RHONDA JOY MCLEAN is Deputy General Counsel of Time Inc. and former Assistant Regional Director of the Northeast Region of the Federal Trade Commission. A graduate of Yale Law School, she served as chair of its alumni association, which has more than 10,000 members, and was recently elected to its fund board of directors. In 2007, McLean was chosen as one of The Network Journal’s “25 Influential Black Women in Business.” Born in Chicago, IL and reared in Smithfield, NC, McLean is a classically trained pianist and mezzo-soprano. She performs sacred music with chorales throughout the New York metropolitan area, where she resides.
Book: The Little Black Book of Success: Laws of Leadership for Black Women
by Elaine Meryl Brown, Marsha Haygood, and Rhonda Joy McLean
Foreword by Essence® Magazine editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray
Visit the Author's Website: http://www.littleblackbookofsuccess.com/
Oh Me, Bumble Bee! by Rhonda Herring Dent
Oh Me, Bumble Bee! by Rhonda Herring Dent
This is a true story. Don’t you hate it when people start with that? However, I must say this because what I am about to tell you is amazing. But it is believable if you believe that God can use anything, any situation or any circumstance to speak to us. Well, this particular day about 4 weeks ago I was enjoying a nice spring day during the weekend. I decided to repots some plants and a couple of rose bushes. I was very excited about doing this because like my Mother, I love flowers, plants, gardens and it is one of my favorite leisurely pastimes.
As I proceeded on my deck, all my gear in check, I encountered a bumble bee. I’d seen the bumble bee or a bumble bee that always hung around my deck. I always ignored the bumble bee because it did not seem to pose a threat. I would go to another area of the deck and swing or sit down and enjoy the outdoors. Occasionally, it would flutter over toward me and I’d swat at it and it would flutter back to “his side of the deck”. Well, this particular day, Mr. Bumble bee was center stage, fluttering in mid air. I stood and looked at it through the glass door. I didn’t give much thought to him because like before he didn’t pose a threat. I assumed it would be like any other time, I’d go to my area and he would stay in his. I proceeded out the door and he did not move. I stopped in my tracks and lightly swatted at it. He kind of fluttered away and came right back; center stage. I tried to ignore him and started to re-pot a plant. He began to buzz around me as if I was on his turf. I took the paper page that was wrapped around the bottom of the pot and swung at him. He still lingered and buzzed around me. I began to think that he might sting me, so I began to swing a little harder. This went on for about 10 minutes or so. I was actually having a fight with a bumble bee and on my own turf. I thought this is ridiculous; you don’t pay any bills around here (one of my favorite things to tell our 16 year old from time to time). After about 10 or 15 more minutes I figured that the paper bag wasn’t going to work. I went inside and glared at the bumble bee through the door. I was really agitated. As I glared at him through the door I thought these insects are getting bolder and bolder these days.
I decided that I would just re-pot the plant inside, by the door. As I was trying to pour the dirt in the pot I glanced to see if Mr. Bee was still there, I accidently stumbled, spilling potting soil on the floor and against the base board. I had made a big mess and was very irritated by now. I was ready to get rid of him for good. I decided to get the broom. I had gotten a little afraid of the bumble bee and his boldness so I cracked the screen door and swung at the bumble bee. He still held his stance. This went on for about 30 minutes. I went inside and repotted the rose bush and watched the bee lingering around in mid air. After I re-potted the plant I cracked the screen door and swung at him so that I could put the plant outside on the deck. When I swung he fluttered away. I picked up the plant, ran out on the deck, sat the plant down and started to run back in the house. I turned around to look behind me and there he was dead in pursuit of me as if to say, “You better get back in the house.” I stood there watching in disbelief thinking, “What in the world?”
Suddenly, it dawned on me that I was fighting with all my might to no avail. I was exhausted, frustrated and felt defeated and obviously it was a fight that I wasn’t going to win because I was using the wrong weapon! What I needed was some insect killer. I began to think about how sometimes we fight the enemy with all our strength, our might, our will power, all our mind power, all our determination and still lose the battle every time. That spoke to my heart in volumes. God’s word is the weapon we should use to defeat the enemy. No matter what we are going through or what we are fighting or what the conflict is or what the enemy is trying to do, we need to use the right weapon. When our backs are against the wall we can come out swinging. Throwing a right (I let the peace of God rule in my heart, I refuse to worry about anything (Col 3:15)) and then a left (Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)) and then an upper cut (Satan the Lord rebuke thee) and get a TKO every time. When we know the Word we are in authority over the enemy because the word tells us that we have authority and power over the enemy. God’s Word is the right weapon to defeat the attacks of the enemy.
And as far as Mr. Bumble Bee, I got into my car, went to Home Depot, purchased some insect killer and took care of him. To my amazement he was still there. My first attempt to spray him was through the screen door but that didn’t work. It just left residue on the screen. I knew I had to face him head on. I eased out the door, but this time I boldly took my stance. I was assured that I had the right weapon and began to spray away. I had to spray him several times but needless to say, I repotted all my flowers in peace and I haven’t seen a bumble bee since. I am sure at some point I might see another one, but next time I will use the right weapon and save myself a lot of grief. And yes, this should be in Ripley’s believe it or not!
“Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you (Luke 10:19).” That authority and power is the Word of God
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Author Rhonda K. Herring is releasing her new book, Ever Changing. She gives a bold account of spiritual development and growth that led her to look within herself for the strength and courage to make a difference in her life and in others. Her journey takes her readers from childhood, to adulthood, to purpose.
Rhonda Herring lives in northern Virginia and is a Senior Program Analyst for the Department of Defense. She has been with the Department of Defense for more than twenty-two years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Ever Changing is the story of how one woman submitted herself to God’s will and how He sustained her in her darkest moments. She describes the intimate details of her relationship with God and how He transformed her life. Based on the beloved “Serenity Prayer” that was instilled in the author as a young child. How she learned the true meaning of the prayer and how it sustained her through her trials and tribulations. She finds the courage to change the things she can and the “wisdom” to know the difference.
Ever Changing was written for those who do not understand why they are going through difficult times and experiencing constant changes in their lives. It is for those who are seeking the wisdom to identify the things they can change and to be wise enough to leave those things they can not change to God. This testimony teaches self-acceptance, acceptance of others and the acceptance of change with the understanding that unless God sails the ship we are afloat.
Ever Changing: Inside Outward by Rhonda K. Herring
Author's Website: http://www.e-rhonda.net/
ISBN-10: 1581693095
ISBN-13: 978-1581693096
Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality
Christian Life - Spiritual Growth
Purchase from Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Ever-Changing-Rhonda-Herring/dp/1581693095
This is a true story. Don’t you hate it when people start with that? However, I must say this because what I am about to tell you is amazing. But it is believable if you believe that God can use anything, any situation or any circumstance to speak to us. Well, this particular day about 4 weeks ago I was enjoying a nice spring day during the weekend. I decided to repots some plants and a couple of rose bushes. I was very excited about doing this because like my Mother, I love flowers, plants, gardens and it is one of my favorite leisurely pastimes.
As I proceeded on my deck, all my gear in check, I encountered a bumble bee. I’d seen the bumble bee or a bumble bee that always hung around my deck. I always ignored the bumble bee because it did not seem to pose a threat. I would go to another area of the deck and swing or sit down and enjoy the outdoors. Occasionally, it would flutter over toward me and I’d swat at it and it would flutter back to “his side of the deck”. Well, this particular day, Mr. Bumble bee was center stage, fluttering in mid air. I stood and looked at it through the glass door. I didn’t give much thought to him because like before he didn’t pose a threat. I assumed it would be like any other time, I’d go to my area and he would stay in his. I proceeded out the door and he did not move. I stopped in my tracks and lightly swatted at it. He kind of fluttered away and came right back; center stage. I tried to ignore him and started to re-pot a plant. He began to buzz around me as if I was on his turf. I took the paper page that was wrapped around the bottom of the pot and swung at him. He still lingered and buzzed around me. I began to think that he might sting me, so I began to swing a little harder. This went on for about 10 minutes or so. I was actually having a fight with a bumble bee and on my own turf. I thought this is ridiculous; you don’t pay any bills around here (one of my favorite things to tell our 16 year old from time to time). After about 10 or 15 more minutes I figured that the paper bag wasn’t going to work. I went inside and glared at the bumble bee through the door. I was really agitated. As I glared at him through the door I thought these insects are getting bolder and bolder these days.
I decided that I would just re-pot the plant inside, by the door. As I was trying to pour the dirt in the pot I glanced to see if Mr. Bee was still there, I accidently stumbled, spilling potting soil on the floor and against the base board. I had made a big mess and was very irritated by now. I was ready to get rid of him for good. I decided to get the broom. I had gotten a little afraid of the bumble bee and his boldness so I cracked the screen door and swung at the bumble bee. He still held his stance. This went on for about 30 minutes. I went inside and repotted the rose bush and watched the bee lingering around in mid air. After I re-potted the plant I cracked the screen door and swung at him so that I could put the plant outside on the deck. When I swung he fluttered away. I picked up the plant, ran out on the deck, sat the plant down and started to run back in the house. I turned around to look behind me and there he was dead in pursuit of me as if to say, “You better get back in the house.” I stood there watching in disbelief thinking, “What in the world?”
Suddenly, it dawned on me that I was fighting with all my might to no avail. I was exhausted, frustrated and felt defeated and obviously it was a fight that I wasn’t going to win because I was using the wrong weapon! What I needed was some insect killer. I began to think about how sometimes we fight the enemy with all our strength, our might, our will power, all our mind power, all our determination and still lose the battle every time. That spoke to my heart in volumes. God’s word is the weapon we should use to defeat the enemy. No matter what we are going through or what we are fighting or what the conflict is or what the enemy is trying to do, we need to use the right weapon. When our backs are against the wall we can come out swinging. Throwing a right (I let the peace of God rule in my heart, I refuse to worry about anything (Col 3:15)) and then a left (Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)) and then an upper cut (Satan the Lord rebuke thee) and get a TKO every time. When we know the Word we are in authority over the enemy because the word tells us that we have authority and power over the enemy. God’s Word is the right weapon to defeat the attacks of the enemy.
And as far as Mr. Bumble Bee, I got into my car, went to Home Depot, purchased some insect killer and took care of him. To my amazement he was still there. My first attempt to spray him was through the screen door but that didn’t work. It just left residue on the screen. I knew I had to face him head on. I eased out the door, but this time I boldly took my stance. I was assured that I had the right weapon and began to spray away. I had to spray him several times but needless to say, I repotted all my flowers in peace and I haven’t seen a bumble bee since. I am sure at some point I might see another one, but next time I will use the right weapon and save myself a lot of grief. And yes, this should be in Ripley’s believe it or not!
“Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you (Luke 10:19).” That authority and power is the Word of God
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Author Rhonda K. Herring is releasing her new book, Ever Changing. She gives a bold account of spiritual development and growth that led her to look within herself for the strength and courage to make a difference in her life and in others. Her journey takes her readers from childhood, to adulthood, to purpose.
Rhonda Herring lives in northern Virginia and is a Senior Program Analyst for the Department of Defense. She has been with the Department of Defense for more than twenty-two years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Ever Changing is the story of how one woman submitted herself to God’s will and how He sustained her in her darkest moments. She describes the intimate details of her relationship with God and how He transformed her life. Based on the beloved “Serenity Prayer” that was instilled in the author as a young child. How she learned the true meaning of the prayer and how it sustained her through her trials and tribulations. She finds the courage to change the things she can and the “wisdom” to know the difference.
Ever Changing was written for those who do not understand why they are going through difficult times and experiencing constant changes in their lives. It is for those who are seeking the wisdom to identify the things they can change and to be wise enough to leave those things they can not change to God. This testimony teaches self-acceptance, acceptance of others and the acceptance of change with the understanding that unless God sails the ship we are afloat.
Ever Changing: Inside Outward by Rhonda K. Herring
Author's Website: http://www.e-rhonda.net/
ISBN-10: 1581693095
ISBN-13: 978-1581693096
Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality
Christian Life - Spiritual Growth
Purchase from Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Ever-Changing-Rhonda-Herring/dp/1581693095
The Truth As I See It by Nakia R. Laushaul
The Truth As I See It by Nakia R. Laushaul
Author's Personal Introduction
I know this is the first you may have heard of me, but it won't be the last.
Poem: Empty
by Nakia R. Laushaul
I feel like an empty circle
With no center.
God pencil me in
Use ink . . .
Hurry
From the book The Truth As I See It
Copyright; All Rights Reserved by Nakia R. Laushaul
View the video book introduction here: http://www.audioacrobat.com/note/CP8jN9GQ
Peer Book Review for The Truth As I See It:
Sincerely,
Nakia R. Laushaul
Nakia R. Laushaul, author of The Truth As I See It
• Website: http://www.nakiarlaushaul.com/
• Follow the Blog: http://nakialaushaul.blogspot.com/
• Book Intro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vq5T85tMQ68
Please Tweet about this article, repost and share at Facebook and tell all ya friends about The Truth As I See It. Thanks!
Author's Personal Introduction
I love the written word. Ever since I was nine years old I knew that I wanted to write. I still remember the first real novel I ever read, and the impact that novel still has over my life. Somehow, life, love, and discontentment squeezed itself in between the coils of Gods purpose for my existence. I buried my dreams. Whatever the case, it doesnt matter anymore. What is important is that I am here now and oh how happy I am to be exactly where I am, introducing myself to you. I commit to the integrity of my thoughts soulfully arranged on paper.
I know this is the first you may have heard of me, but it won't be the last.
This is my dream, not to write poetry, but to tell stories. Stories that bruise, scab over, and finally heal as though there was never a bruise. There were so many nights I lie awake crying and thinking about what it really meant to be a woman, a mother, a sister, a daughter, a member of society, and most importantly a child of God. I thought it was insomnia (smile), but it was purpose calling out to me.
Finally, I put pen to paper and I let my fingers tap incessantly across my keyboard until the joy and pain within poured out of my spirit. I offer to you my stories in the form of poetry & prose. This is The Truth A I See It. Please enjoy.
by Nakia R. Laushaul
I feel like an empty circle
With no center.
God pencil me in
Use ink . . .
Hurry
From the book The Truth As I See It
Copyright; All Rights Reserved by Nakia R. Laushaul
View the video book introduction here: http://www.audioacrobat.com/note/CP8jN9GQ
Peer Book Review for The Truth As I See It:
Have you ever felt a heart beat on paper? Experience Nakia Laushaul's The Truth as I See It. This talented newcomer has a distinctive voice that must be heard, offering insights on everything from love-turned-hate to the tentative joys of parenthood to all-important self-appreciation. Follow the poet's voice as she narrates the peaks and valleys in this journey we call life. The Truth as I See It reads like magic and will leave you forever changed. --Marguerite Benjamin Parker, author of A Debt Too Deep
Sincerely,
Nakia R. Laushaul
Nakia R. Laushaul, author of The Truth As I See It
• Website: http://www.nakiarlaushaul.com/
• Follow the Blog: http://nakialaushaul.blogspot.com/
• Book Intro: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vq5T85tMQ68
Please Tweet about this article, repost and share at Facebook and tell all ya friends about The Truth As I See It. Thanks!
Book Intro: Chocolate High by Mika Barnes
Intimate Conversation with Author Mika (Barnes)
Chocolate High is Mika's debut novel. She resides in South Florida with her family. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Northwood University and her M.B.A. from Nova Southeastern University. She is currently hard at work on her next project. For the latest news on Mika, please visit www.mikabarnes.com
Book Intro: Chocolate High by Mika Barnes
How do you say goodbye to the one you love? Is this even an option when you’ve invested your body, mind, and soul into your relationship? Charisse Farrell is a successful, beautiful corporate attorney who has it all, but when the love of her life David Richards betrays her, she has to reevaluate her future. Tempted by the desire to love again and her need for revenge Charisse is haunted by a demon from her past that turns her life upside down. When love knocks her down, Charisse has to get back up fighting. Fighting for love.
Read the First Chapter Excerpt here:
http://www.docstoc.com/docs/document-preview.aspx?doc_id=42496404
Q:: Introduce us to your main characters. Who are your favorites and why?
A:: My main characters are Charisse Farrell and David Richards, your modern day perfect couple in appearances. She is a beautiful, successful corporate attorney and he is a handsome, strapping CEO of his own financial firm. They were best friends growing up who loved each other for as long as they could remember, but now giving their relationship a try isn’t as easy as they thought it would be. Charisse is torn after David’s betrayal. David, on the other hand, doesn’t feel his betrayal was severe enough to jeopardize their relationship.
My favorite characters are actually the supporting characters: Terry Wright, because he epitomizes the true definition of a good man, and Kyla Donaldson, Charisse’s best friend, because she keeps you laughing with her over-the-top personality and all-about-me swagger.
Q:: Take us inside Chocolate High. What are two major events taking place?
A:: The first major event is when Charisse finds out that David has betrayed her. The second explores what extreme a woman will go to get her man.
Q:: What makes you powerful as a person and a writer?
A:: I’ve always been a person with something to say. Moreover, the purpose of my message has changed the lives of many within my community. I am only one person but I understand my actions can effect positive change. I pay it forward as often as possible and I try to reflect this same philosophy through my writing. Yes, it’s drama in my writing but there is also a message for the reader to walk away with. The general premise of my writing is: Sometimes you have to go through something to get something.
Q:: Who are your mentors? Where do you find your inspiration?
A:: Jessica Tilles has been an invaluable mentor throughout this process. A lot of times in this industry other authors or industry insiders aren’t willing to share what they’ve learned in their journey, but Jess was the exact opposite. Her guidance exposed me to the business without the high-priced lessons a mistake can cost you. My Mom, a gifted writer in her own right has also been my mentor and biggest supporter from day one. Watching her craft a story or poem has inspired me to strive to create great stories and memorable characters.
I find inspiration in everyday life. Everyone has a story to tell and I try to breathe that life into every character that graces the pages of my book. I always try to put a twist or something extra special into my characters to remind my readers of people they know or have met in passing or in their own lives. Creating this connection is inspiring.
Q:: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from Chocolate High?
A:: I want my readers to understand their “self-worth.” This is important because before a person can tackle relationship issues or any issue affecting their life, they must know and understand their true worth. Having this understanding sets the limits to what we will and won’t tolerate in a relationship. It’s okay to let go. Society has us so convinced that it’s better to have a piece of something than nothing at all, so it seems at times in relationships we lose the true essence of who we are as a person to hold on to a love that was doomed from the start.
Q:: How can our readers reach you online? Share with us your online contact info.
A:: For the latest news and information, readers can reach me at my Web site: http://www.mikabarnes.com/ or by email: mika@mikabarnes.com.
Other online sources are:
facebook.com/tamikabarnes
twitter.com/mikabarnes
myspace.com/mikawrites
http://www.authorsden.com/mika
Visit my Chocolate High Fan Page on Facebook
Chocolate High by Mika (Barnes)
Purchase from Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Chocolate-High-Mika/dp/0984425802
Read the first chapter of Chocolate High by Mika
Chocolate High is Mika's debut novel. She resides in South Florida with her family. She received her Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Northwood University and her M.B.A. from Nova Southeastern University. She is currently hard at work on her next project. For the latest news on Mika, please visit www.mikabarnes.com
Book Intro: Chocolate High by Mika Barnes
How do you say goodbye to the one you love? Is this even an option when you’ve invested your body, mind, and soul into your relationship? Charisse Farrell is a successful, beautiful corporate attorney who has it all, but when the love of her life David Richards betrays her, she has to reevaluate her future. Tempted by the desire to love again and her need for revenge Charisse is haunted by a demon from her past that turns her life upside down. When love knocks her down, Charisse has to get back up fighting. Fighting for love.
Read the First Chapter Excerpt here:
http://www.docstoc.com/docs/document-preview.aspx?doc_id=42496404
Q:: Introduce us to your main characters. Who are your favorites and why?
A:: My main characters are Charisse Farrell and David Richards, your modern day perfect couple in appearances. She is a beautiful, successful corporate attorney and he is a handsome, strapping CEO of his own financial firm. They were best friends growing up who loved each other for as long as they could remember, but now giving their relationship a try isn’t as easy as they thought it would be. Charisse is torn after David’s betrayal. David, on the other hand, doesn’t feel his betrayal was severe enough to jeopardize their relationship.
My favorite characters are actually the supporting characters: Terry Wright, because he epitomizes the true definition of a good man, and Kyla Donaldson, Charisse’s best friend, because she keeps you laughing with her over-the-top personality and all-about-me swagger.
Q:: Take us inside Chocolate High. What are two major events taking place?
A:: The first major event is when Charisse finds out that David has betrayed her. The second explores what extreme a woman will go to get her man.
Q:: What makes you powerful as a person and a writer?
A:: I’ve always been a person with something to say. Moreover, the purpose of my message has changed the lives of many within my community. I am only one person but I understand my actions can effect positive change. I pay it forward as often as possible and I try to reflect this same philosophy through my writing. Yes, it’s drama in my writing but there is also a message for the reader to walk away with. The general premise of my writing is: Sometimes you have to go through something to get something.
Q:: Who are your mentors? Where do you find your inspiration?
A:: Jessica Tilles has been an invaluable mentor throughout this process. A lot of times in this industry other authors or industry insiders aren’t willing to share what they’ve learned in their journey, but Jess was the exact opposite. Her guidance exposed me to the business without the high-priced lessons a mistake can cost you. My Mom, a gifted writer in her own right has also been my mentor and biggest supporter from day one. Watching her craft a story or poem has inspired me to strive to create great stories and memorable characters.
I find inspiration in everyday life. Everyone has a story to tell and I try to breathe that life into every character that graces the pages of my book. I always try to put a twist or something extra special into my characters to remind my readers of people they know or have met in passing or in their own lives. Creating this connection is inspiring.
Q:: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from Chocolate High?
A:: I want my readers to understand their “self-worth.” This is important because before a person can tackle relationship issues or any issue affecting their life, they must know and understand their true worth. Having this understanding sets the limits to what we will and won’t tolerate in a relationship. It’s okay to let go. Society has us so convinced that it’s better to have a piece of something than nothing at all, so it seems at times in relationships we lose the true essence of who we are as a person to hold on to a love that was doomed from the start.
Q:: How can our readers reach you online? Share with us your online contact info.
A:: For the latest news and information, readers can reach me at my Web site: http://www.mikabarnes.com/ or by email: mika@mikabarnes.com.
Other online sources are:
facebook.com/tamikabarnes
twitter.com/mikabarnes
myspace.com/mikawrites
http://www.authorsden.com/mika
Visit my Chocolate High Fan Page on Facebook
Chocolate High by Mika (Barnes)
Purchase from Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Chocolate-High-Mika/dp/0984425802
Read the first chapter of Chocolate High by Mika
New: Forgiven by Vanessa Miller
FORGIVEN by Vanessa Miller
#25 in Amazon Top 100 Books in > Romance > Multicultural
Pastor Jerome Tyler (JT) Thomas is back!
But this time JT is committed to God and his family in ways he never considered possible. After losing everything because of past indiscretions, JT realizes that he doesn’t want to live without God or his family and begins to turn his life around. But his wife hasn’t forgotten the dirt in his backyard and denies JT the very thing he craves – forgiveness. When his mother-in-law and ex-mistress hatch a plot to destroy him, JT discovers that he will need all the Holy Ghost power he can muster to stay true.
Cassandra Thomas loves her husband, and wants their marriage to work. But JT destroyed her trust when he cheated on her with one woman after the next. Try as she might, Cassandra just can’t forgive. The trust and the thrill is gone from her marriage. In times of trouble, Cassandra has always turned to God for help, but can God soften her heart enough so that she can forgive a man like JT?
EXCERPT: Prologue from Uncorrected Proof
Crouched down between a rusty old Lincoln with a playboy symbol on the driver’s side door and a red Pontiac with a busted rearview window, while a maniac wielded a tire iron that had already clipped her in the leg once, Diane Benson decided it was time to call her husband and beg for his forgiveness.
She had left Cleveland, Ohio about eight months ago after leaving her three oldest children with her husband, Joe Benson. She then drove to Pastor JT Thomas’ house and left her three month old daughter with him and his wife. The way Diane saw it, every child needed to be with his or her own daddy and she didn’t care how JT and Cassandra’s life was disrupted. JT got what he deserved anyway. What kind of man pastors a church while sleeping with the deacon’s wife? But JT hadn’t only been sleeping with her. Diane could have understood if he had slipped into sin because he just couldn’t resist her voluptuous curves and Angelina Jollie pouty lips. But that hadn’t been the case.
JT would sleep with anything in a knee high skirt willing to kick her pumps off and get busy. Too bad she got pregnant before she figured that one out. She had been prepared to leave her husband for JT so they could start a new life with their baby. But JT suddenly developed a conscious and realized that a husband’s place was at home with his wife. He expected her to just continue living a lie with Benson. JT never imagined that she would tell Benson the truth. But she had, and Benson beat the snot out of him.
Soon after JT got his beat down, Diane had become fed up with the whole matter. So after dropping Lily off with her daddy, she left town with Brian Johnson. Brian had been the mechanic at the auto dealership her husband owned. But Brian was fixing more than automobiles and Joe hadn’t had a clue about it. Brian had been her side kick. When JT wasn’t acting right, she spent her free time with Brian. She may have imagined herself as first lady of Faith Outreach while fooling around with JT, but Brian was the one who made her weak at the knees. She couldn’t lie if she wanted to, that man held some type of demonic power over her and she lived to do his bidding. Actually, Lily could have been Brian’s baby just as well as JT’s. But Brian said that since she had been sleeping with JT more than him around the time that she’d gotten pregnant, Lily more than likely belonged to JT. Funny thing was, when the DNA test came back and it proved that Brian had been right; JT was Lily’s father, Brian got so mad that he up and left her in Jacksonville, Florida with only twenty dollars to her name.
That’s when she met Darryl Mills. Darryl was a house flipper. Since the economy turned and not many people were buying homes, he’d given Diane the key to a fabulous four bedroom home in the suburbs. Diane loved the house and was trying to figure out how she could convince Darryl to give it to her instead of putting it back on the market. Diane almost had Darryl convinced, until his nosy wife figured out that she was living in the house rent free. That’s why Diane was crouched between two cars right now. The maniac with the tire iron was Darryl’s wife.
“You might as well come out from between these cars. ‘Cause I really don’t care if I bang these cars up, just as long as you get banged up in the process.”
Crawling on the ground, trying to move further into the jam packed parking lot and away from the tire iron, Diane said, “I don’t even know you, lady. Why are you doing this?”
“You know me well enough to sleep with my husband,” the woman said as she angled her obese body between the two closely parked cars and swung at Diane.
Thankful that the woman missed her that time, Diane stood up and ran as quickly as she could through the maze of cars.
Darryl’s wife was simply too big to move any further in between the Lincoln and the Pontiac, so she couldn’t catch Diane, but she screamed as loud as she could, “I’m throwing all your stuff out of my house and onto the street. If you come back here to get any of it, I’m going to shoot you.”
Once Diane was a safe distance away from certain death, she used the cell phone that Darryl bought her to call Benson. When he answered she said, “Hey, Joe, I was just calling to check on the kids. How are they doing?”
“They miss you, Diane, that’s how they’re doing,” Joe told her.
“I know. I know,” she said, like a woman who’d learned her lesson. “I should have never left them. I miss all my babies.”
“You received court papers about a custody hearing for Lily last week.”
“What?” she said as if she couldn’t believe this was happening to her. “What am I supposed to do, Joe? I don’t even have a way to get back to Cleveland right now.”
“The hearing is next month. I’ll get you an airline ticket. Just tell me where you are.”
That’s what she wanted to hear, but she tried to tamper down her excitement as she said, “I don’t know, Benson. The only reason I didn’t turn around and come right back home eight months ago was because I was scared about how you would treat me.”
Benson was almost seven feet tall, bulky and strong, but with his wife, he might as well have been a midget. “Have I ever given you a reason to fear me? It’s not just the kids missing you, Diane. I miss you. Just come home.”
“What about Lily? I can’t just forget that I have another child.”
“I wasn’t sure that you wanted Lily since you left her with JT.”
“She’s my child,” Diane said angrily. JT wasn’t just going to run over her with some custody hearing, telling some judge that his wife would be a better mother than she was.
Benson cleared his throat. “Just come home, Diane. We can work on getting Lily back from JT once we’re back together.”
“Okay, Benson. I’m in Jacksonville, Florida. Go online and order the ticket and I’ll pick it up at the airport.” Diane smiled as she hung up the phone. Benson had always been at her beck and call. She would go home, but she would also make JT pay for the agony she felt had been inflicted on her because of his refusal to leave his wife and marry her. And she would start by taking Lily away from him.
###
Purchase signed copies from Vanessa: http://www.vanessamiller.com
ABOUT VANESSA MILLER
Vanessa Miller is a best-selling author, playwright, and motivational speaker. She started writing as a child, spending countless hours either reading or writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels. Vanessa’s creative endeavors took on new meaning in1994 when she became a Christian. Since then, her writing has been centered on themes of redemption, often focusing on characters facing multi-dimensional struggles.
Vanessa’s novels have received rave reviews, with several appearing on Essence Magazine’s Bestseller’s List. Miller’s work has receiving numerous awards, including “Best Christian Fiction Mahogany Award” and the “Red Rose Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction.” Miller graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication. She is an ordained “exhorter” in her church, explaining, “God has called me to exhort readers and to help them rediscover their place with the Lord.”
Vanessa Miller and her family live in Dayton, Ohio. Visit Vanessa on the Internet: http://www.vanessamiller.com/
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#25 in Amazon Top 100 Books in > Romance > Multicultural
But this time JT is committed to God and his family in ways he never considered possible. After losing everything because of past indiscretions, JT realizes that he doesn’t want to live without God or his family and begins to turn his life around. But his wife hasn’t forgotten the dirt in his backyard and denies JT the very thing he craves – forgiveness. When his mother-in-law and ex-mistress hatch a plot to destroy him, JT discovers that he will need all the Holy Ghost power he can muster to stay true.
Cassandra Thomas loves her husband, and wants their marriage to work. But JT destroyed her trust when he cheated on her with one woman after the next. Try as she might, Cassandra just can’t forgive. The trust and the thrill is gone from her marriage. In times of trouble, Cassandra has always turned to God for help, but can God soften her heart enough so that she can forgive a man like JT?
EXCERPT: Prologue from Uncorrected Proof
Crouched down between a rusty old Lincoln with a playboy symbol on the driver’s side door and a red Pontiac with a busted rearview window, while a maniac wielded a tire iron that had already clipped her in the leg once, Diane Benson decided it was time to call her husband and beg for his forgiveness.
She had left Cleveland, Ohio about eight months ago after leaving her three oldest children with her husband, Joe Benson. She then drove to Pastor JT Thomas’ house and left her three month old daughter with him and his wife. The way Diane saw it, every child needed to be with his or her own daddy and she didn’t care how JT and Cassandra’s life was disrupted. JT got what he deserved anyway. What kind of man pastors a church while sleeping with the deacon’s wife? But JT hadn’t only been sleeping with her. Diane could have understood if he had slipped into sin because he just couldn’t resist her voluptuous curves and Angelina Jollie pouty lips. But that hadn’t been the case.
JT would sleep with anything in a knee high skirt willing to kick her pumps off and get busy. Too bad she got pregnant before she figured that one out. She had been prepared to leave her husband for JT so they could start a new life with their baby. But JT suddenly developed a conscious and realized that a husband’s place was at home with his wife. He expected her to just continue living a lie with Benson. JT never imagined that she would tell Benson the truth. But she had, and Benson beat the snot out of him.
Soon after JT got his beat down, Diane had become fed up with the whole matter. So after dropping Lily off with her daddy, she left town with Brian Johnson. Brian had been the mechanic at the auto dealership her husband owned. But Brian was fixing more than automobiles and Joe hadn’t had a clue about it. Brian had been her side kick. When JT wasn’t acting right, she spent her free time with Brian. She may have imagined herself as first lady of Faith Outreach while fooling around with JT, but Brian was the one who made her weak at the knees. She couldn’t lie if she wanted to, that man held some type of demonic power over her and she lived to do his bidding. Actually, Lily could have been Brian’s baby just as well as JT’s. But Brian said that since she had been sleeping with JT more than him around the time that she’d gotten pregnant, Lily more than likely belonged to JT. Funny thing was, when the DNA test came back and it proved that Brian had been right; JT was Lily’s father, Brian got so mad that he up and left her in Jacksonville, Florida with only twenty dollars to her name.
That’s when she met Darryl Mills. Darryl was a house flipper. Since the economy turned and not many people were buying homes, he’d given Diane the key to a fabulous four bedroom home in the suburbs. Diane loved the house and was trying to figure out how she could convince Darryl to give it to her instead of putting it back on the market. Diane almost had Darryl convinced, until his nosy wife figured out that she was living in the house rent free. That’s why Diane was crouched between two cars right now. The maniac with the tire iron was Darryl’s wife.
“You might as well come out from between these cars. ‘Cause I really don’t care if I bang these cars up, just as long as you get banged up in the process.”
Crawling on the ground, trying to move further into the jam packed parking lot and away from the tire iron, Diane said, “I don’t even know you, lady. Why are you doing this?”
“You know me well enough to sleep with my husband,” the woman said as she angled her obese body between the two closely parked cars and swung at Diane.
Thankful that the woman missed her that time, Diane stood up and ran as quickly as she could through the maze of cars.
Darryl’s wife was simply too big to move any further in between the Lincoln and the Pontiac, so she couldn’t catch Diane, but she screamed as loud as she could, “I’m throwing all your stuff out of my house and onto the street. If you come back here to get any of it, I’m going to shoot you.”
Once Diane was a safe distance away from certain death, she used the cell phone that Darryl bought her to call Benson. When he answered she said, “Hey, Joe, I was just calling to check on the kids. How are they doing?”
“They miss you, Diane, that’s how they’re doing,” Joe told her.
“I know. I know,” she said, like a woman who’d learned her lesson. “I should have never left them. I miss all my babies.”
“You received court papers about a custody hearing for Lily last week.”
“What?” she said as if she couldn’t believe this was happening to her. “What am I supposed to do, Joe? I don’t even have a way to get back to Cleveland right now.”
“The hearing is next month. I’ll get you an airline ticket. Just tell me where you are.”
That’s what she wanted to hear, but she tried to tamper down her excitement as she said, “I don’t know, Benson. The only reason I didn’t turn around and come right back home eight months ago was because I was scared about how you would treat me.”
Benson was almost seven feet tall, bulky and strong, but with his wife, he might as well have been a midget. “Have I ever given you a reason to fear me? It’s not just the kids missing you, Diane. I miss you. Just come home.”
“What about Lily? I can’t just forget that I have another child.”
“I wasn’t sure that you wanted Lily since you left her with JT.”
“She’s my child,” Diane said angrily. JT wasn’t just going to run over her with some custody hearing, telling some judge that his wife would be a better mother than she was.
Benson cleared his throat. “Just come home, Diane. We can work on getting Lily back from JT once we’re back together.”
“Okay, Benson. I’m in Jacksonville, Florida. Go online and order the ticket and I’ll pick it up at the airport.” Diane smiled as she hung up the phone. Benson had always been at her beck and call. She would go home, but she would also make JT pay for the agony she felt had been inflicted on her because of his refusal to leave his wife and marry her. And she would start by taking Lily away from him.
###
Purchase signed copies from Vanessa: http://www.vanessamiller.com
ABOUT VANESSA MILLER
Vanessa’s novels have received rave reviews, with several appearing on Essence Magazine’s Bestseller’s List. Miller’s work has receiving numerous awards, including “Best Christian Fiction Mahogany Award” and the “Red Rose Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction.” Miller graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication. She is an ordained “exhorter” in her church, explaining, “God has called me to exhort readers and to help them rediscover their place with the Lord.”
Vanessa Miller and her family live in Dayton, Ohio. Visit Vanessa on the Internet: http://www.vanessamiller.com/
Please share this discussion with your network too! Leave your thoughts below.
Return to Black Pearls Magazine Online
Book Video: Yesterday's Promise, author Vanessa Miller
Book Video: Yesterday's Promise by Vanessa Miller
Melinda Johnson has always felt called to ministry. So, when her father, Bishop Langston Johnson, decides to step down after thirty years of leadership at Omega Christian Center, it seems only natural for her to take his place. But Bishop Johnson feels led by a God who has other things in mind, and to succeed him, he appoints Steven Marks-a man who is opposed to female pastors, not to mention the fact that he is Melinda's ex-fiance.
Feeling defeated, Melinda nevertheless maintains her position as the church's Missions and Community Outreach Director. Frequent interaction with the new bishop incites bitter sparring-and rekindles long-suppressed attraction, which grows only stronger when Melinda develops a relationship with Steven's precious daughter, Brianna, who's still struggling with the death of her mother.
Can Steven and Melinda set aside past pains, forgive each other, and learn to love again? Or will their opposing positions regarding women preachers keep them forever at odds?
Vanessa Miller, Essence Bestselling Author
Yesterday's Promise, April 2010
Forgiven, June 2010
A Love For Tomorrow, September 2010
Long Time Coming, November 2010
http://www.vanessamiller.com/
www.myspace.com/vmiller1
http://www.anointedauthorsontour.com/
www.facebook.com/vanessamiller01
Join the Conversation, leave questions or comments below. Thank you!
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Melinda Johnson has always felt called to ministry. So, when her father, Bishop Langston Johnson, decides to step down after thirty years of leadership at Omega Christian Center, it seems only natural for her to take his place. But Bishop Johnson feels led by a God who has other things in mind, and to succeed him, he appoints Steven Marks-a man who is opposed to female pastors, not to mention the fact that he is Melinda's ex-fiance.
Feeling defeated, Melinda nevertheless maintains her position as the church's Missions and Community Outreach Director. Frequent interaction with the new bishop incites bitter sparring-and rekindles long-suppressed attraction, which grows only stronger when Melinda develops a relationship with Steven's precious daughter, Brianna, who's still struggling with the death of her mother.
Can Steven and Melinda set aside past pains, forgive each other, and learn to love again? Or will their opposing positions regarding women preachers keep them forever at odds?
Vanessa Miller, Essence Bestselling Author
Yesterday's Promise, April 2010
Forgiven, June 2010
A Love For Tomorrow, September 2010
Long Time Coming, November 2010
http://www.vanessamiller.com/
www.myspace.com/vmiller1
http://www.anointedauthorsontour.com/
www.facebook.com/vanessamiller01
Join the Conversation, leave questions or comments below. Thank you!
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Children book: Imagia and the Magic Pearls
Intimate Conversation with author Monroe S. Tarver
"Imagia and the Magic Pearls" takes place in Trillow, the land of three suns. The story tells of the Elf Princess, Imagia, who lives in Upper Zembah. She spends all her time studying and has little time for friends. One day she finds a hole in the palace walls and enters the forest, even though she knows this is forbidden. She does find friends there, but has scary adventures as well. During her adventures, Imagia learns the power of imagination as well as some important life lessons.
Who were your favorites? Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?
Of course they are all my favorites, but I really like the Braidworms, Water Ostrich and the Creepod flowers. These creatures help define my world of Trillow and each has his own interesting history. I grew up with braids in my hair, so a creature like the braidworm seems natural in my world.
What makes you powerful as a person and a writer? Who are your mentors?
My Imagination makes me powerful as a person and a writer. Walt Disney was my biggest mentor. I loved the world he created with his characters and always wanted to create my own world and characters -- ones that came from my imagination.
A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing helps open the door for fantasy chapter books where dark skinned characters are strong role models.
What specific situation or revelation prompted you to write your book?
My first trip to Disney world actually changed me forever. I felt so many things were possible.
Who do you want to reach with your book and the message within?
I believe every child has a pearl (talent). If they allow the wizards(parents, teachers) around them to help them learn as much as they can, then their pearl will become just as powerful as I've made my pearl -- my writing and drawing over the years.
What are some of their specific issues, needs or problems addressed in this book?
Prior to "Imagia", there's been a dearth of dark-skinned role models in children's literature.
Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I want kids to feel free and empowered to develop and use their imagination.
What do you think makes your book different from others in this genre?
There are very few, if any, Classical Fantasy Chapter books for children aged 5 to 9 to read themselves, or for parents to read to younger children. Unlike the one-sitting childen's books, chapter books provide small children with a sense of anticipation, as well as a chance to fantasize about what comes next.
Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I'm working on the next book of the Tales From the Mapmaker series ...
How can our readers reach you online? Share with us your online contact info.
I can be reached at http://www.worldoftarver.com/
http://www.talesfromthemapmaker.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_ZxarMxNog
"Tales from the Mapmaker", book 1: 'Imagia and the Magic Pearls'
written by Monroe Tarver.
published by Wizarding World Press
Books can be purchased from:
http://www.cushcity.com/
http://www.mosaicbooks.com/
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Game Recognize Game by Terry DeRon
Intimate Conversation with author Terry DeRon
Game Recognize Game is a story highlighting the games and deception that men and women play on one another to get what they want. The story is told completely first person so you get to experience the motives and mindset of someone doing dirt and someone having dirt done on them. This is one of those books that has so much drama going on, it's hard to pick a favorite part or one favorite character.
Well originally I started writing out of boredom. I was sitting in a training class to be a claim representative for State Farm and I happened to have a pen and paper in front of me. So that's how I created the first five chapters. It was seeing how people reacted to those chapters that planted the thought "what would happen if they actually had a whole book to read"? So that is what gave me the inspiration to actually complete the task.
Q: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?
Definitely. Not necessarily people that I know, but real people that anybody could know or hang around. My book is written completely in first person so you get a unique perspective into the thoughts and feelings of each character. Once you see what makes a person operate and what their thought process is when they are going through something you can connect with them more. So the characters in Game Recognize Game are definitely "real."
Q: What sets your book apart from other books in your genre?
Well I'm an avid reader and I teach English and reading, so I know what makes a book a good or great read from a reader's perspective. That’s why my book is so fast paced and realistic. I also have a degree in film and television production so reading my book is more like reading a script to a movie, than actually reading a novel. I don't have a narrator telling you what's happening. You actually get to experience the situation with the character. So that's why readers experience such a roller coaster of emotions while they are reading Game Recognize Game. There isn't any period where your interest level will drop, not even a little bit. When people say, "page turner", this is exactly what they mean. You are on edge to find out what's going to happen from sentence to sentence, paragraph to paragraph, and page to page from beginning to end!
Q: What is the best piece of advice you would give to an aspiring author?
The best piece of advice I would give to an aspiring author is to leave their ego at the door. I've found that a lot of people that contact me want to put out a book that is based on their life. And that doesn't really work unless there is something extraordinary about your life or if you're a celebrity. So my advice would be to focus on something that would interest a large number of people. Not just people that know you or care about your personal life. When you create something that is universally accepted as being a good book then you know that you have done a good job as an author.
Q: Who did you write this book for? Why?
Now I know this sounds crazy, but I actually wrote my book for people that hate to read. Being a reading teacher I understand the importance of being a reader. And a large majority of people that have problems in school or education have a problem with their reading. If you can't read on the same level of your peers, how can you possibly expect to communicate on their level?
So with that in mind, a lot of people are turned off from reading because of some of the material that they were forced to read that probably didn't interest them very much. If you ask almost any person that enjoys reading would they prefer to watch a movie about something or read a book about it and they will almost always select the book. I want to show the people that would select the movie, what they are missing. That’s why my cover is so attention getting and risqué. That’s why my writing is so vivid and in your face. I think that my book looks interesting enough to get someone that may have never read a book beginning to end, to give it a chance. And I know if they read my book, they will have a thorough understanding of the power of literature.
Contact info:
Michelle Stephenson -- michelle@vmscommunications.net
Terry DeRon -- terryderon@yahoo.com
Book is available at: http://www.terryderonbooks.com/
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Intimate Conversation with author Tash Hawthorne
Intimate Conversation with author Tash Hawthorne
Tash Hawthorne comes out strong and does her thing with her freshman novel... Showing that Karma is definitely a mutha! -- J.M. Benjamin, Essence Bestselling author of Ride or Die Chick and On The Run With Love
Tash Hawthorne, born in Summit, NJ and raised in the Valley section of Orange, NJ, cannot be viewed as the typical Jersey Girl. For the first 18 years of her life, Tash had the rare privilege of being raised by three generations of strong Black women; all who lived under the same roof. Having received such ingredients like fearlessness from her mother, compassion from her grandmother, and resilience from her great grandmother, Tash grew to be a product of her environment. One of pure love and unadulterated passion for the human condition.
As a child, Tash dreamed of becoming an Olympic gold-medalist in track & field and an Alvin Ailey dancer, but her hopes to run and dance were soon deferred due to medical reasons. Writing evolved from that of her mother. Tash showed early signs of her gift of script at the age of 9; winning second place in a state-wide essay contest for students in grades 4-6. At age 14, she placed first in another essay contest which consisted of 1300 junior high school candidates along the East Coast.
Despite her early accolades, Tash did not seriously begin writing until the age of 17, three months after the untimely passing of her best friend. Writing became a therapeutic way to escape the unpleasant realities of her surroundings. And it was in that time of salutary that her first screenplay, "The Jaded Edge" was born.
After graduating from high school, Tash went on to attend the first college of her choice, Hampton University, where she furthered her love for the arts, pursuing a degree in theatre. She would soon be faced with another tragedy. Just seven days into her studies at the university, Tash received a phone call from her mother stating that her great-grandmother had unexpectedly passed away. Tash's entire academic world came to a standstill. The woman she used to secretly meet in the middle of the night to eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with had been taken away from her. It would take Tash the rest of her tenure at Hampton to fully recover from the sudden loss.
Having regrouped and accepted God's will, Tash turned her focus back to her studies. With the help of some of her professors and staff at Hampton, she went from being on academic probation to graduating on time with Honors. During her term, she was able to write a second screenplay entitled "Nu JeruSlum" and a stage play entitled "Mourning Glory." After returning home to Orange, Tash began to write a third screenplay entitled "Karma." Throughout that year, she experienced unsettling thoughts about the format of the piece. It was not until a year later when she decided to turn it into a novel. “Karma,” like all of Tash's works, encompasses the reality of life as she sees it and knows it.
Ella: Tash, you've had a full life for one so young! Please tell us about your passion for writing. (A) My passion for writing stems from life experiences (mine and others) and my love for the arts. I write because I believe the genre of urban literature is missing something…and that something is substance. My goal is to give readers an alternate view of the urban world. This goal is what drives me.
Ella: What legacy do you want your writing to leave future readers?(A) My writing offers the following legacy to future readers…a legacy of integrity. When I say that, I mean to say that I stood my ground in telling my characters’ stories. It was important to always tell the truth…their truths.
Ella: Introduce us to your new book, Karma with a Vengeance. (ISBN-10: 0981854508)
(A) There is a time in a young woman’s life where the choices she makes will determine the outcome of her existence in the years (of uncertainty) to come. Those choices will lead to mistakes. The mistakes will lead to hard times. The hard times will lead to answers, searched for by that lost soul. In the urban setting of Newark, NJ, we accompany Karma Alonso-Walker, who, on this journey, gains support from an unwanted, unlikely source through life's greatest troubles.
At the age of 17, Karma becomes caught in the middle of her parents' deteriorating marriage. Due to the unexpected appearance of her father's one night-stand at the family's church on Easter Sunday, Karma's perception of men changes for the worst. With an opportunity to join the US Women's Track and Field team for the 2000 Summer Olympics in Australia, Karma is driven to achieve her dream of winning Olympic gold. But to her dismay, her mother is stricken with Ovarian Cancer. Karma is forced to choose between running professionally at her mother's request or running home to be at her mother's side.
Ten years later, we follow Karma to her mother's home on her fifty-second birthday. Her parents have separated and found comfort in new partners. All the while, unbeknownst to Karma, her mother's boyfriend has made himself a permanent fixture in their life. While trying to protect her mother from her abusive lover, Karma finds herself distracted by the presence of her cousin's new police partner. As distraction and attraction become intertwined, Karma loses focus of her mother's safety. And on the very same celebratory day of her birth, Karma is forced to mourn her mother's death.
Driven by hatred and fury, Karma sets out to find her mother's boyfriend and avenge her death. Having severed her ties with God, been dismissed by her family and the Newark Police Department, Karma becomes a menace to society--and to herself. This timeless chronicle about a young woman's unyielding loyalty to her mother will open your eyes to the way life can be, even when the glass looks half empty. As Karma’s life spirals out of control, her exploration leads her to self-preservation and true happiness…or does it?
Ella: Who are your two main characters? And what do you like most about them?(A) My two main characters are Karma Alonso-Walker and Money Parks. What I like most about Karma is that she is a strong, independent woman who can adapt to any environment. I also admire Karma’s ability to be dependent on someone else when her burdens are too much for her to bear. What I like most about Money is that although he makes many mistakes (terrible ones at that) his intentions are good.
Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?(A) I want readers to know that there are successful people of color in the inner city. Every woman is not materialistic or abusing the system or bedding multiple men for financial gain. Every man is not a drug dealer or a gangster or a male gigolo. For the most part, people are living their lives trying to do the right thing.
Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?(A) I would advise a new writer to not write pieces for the sole purpose of sales or what he/she thinks other people would want to read. I would encourage the writer to write what he/she feels people NEED to know. It is imperative to ALWAYS tell the truth.
Ella: Name three things that it takes to make a successful author in your opinion. (A) A writer must have discipline. For instance, they must have the strength of mind and will to be able to shut the world out so they can immerse themselves in their work.
A writer must be able to deal with adversity. They must have tough skin and be able to take criticism, be it constructive or destructive. They must have an open mind and be flexible in their approach to the art and craft of writing.
A writer must be a consummate student. A successful author reads works written by other authors, not only for pleasure, but also to learn new ways to invent and deliver their own stories.
Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?(A) You can expect the sequel to Karma: With A Vengeance (wink). Seriously, you can expect a continuation of my works in film and theatre in the future. I believe writers should be multi-dimensional. They should never cripple themselves by writing in only one facet of scribe.
Ella: How may our readers connect with you online?E-Mail Addresses: TJade424@aol.com or karmawithavengeance@gmail.com
Web Links: www.twitter.com/tashhawthorne or www.facebook.com/people/Tash-Hawthorne/41003060
Karma with a Vengeance by Tash Hawthorne
Genre: Urban Fiction, Women, African-American, Cuban-American
Purchase the book from Wahida Clark Publishing
http://www.wclarkpublishing.com/wcp-books-karma.htm
Book Reviews for Karma with a Vengeance by Tash Hawthorne
Karma Alonso-Walker loves her family fiercely, particularly her mother Soleil. She would do anything for her mother. So when the beloved matron is killed by her abusive boyfriend, Jimmy, Karma sets out deep into the dark corners of the underworld to take revenge on the man who took away her world. Karma with a Vengeance unfolds through flashbacks and the present day, slowly revealing the real story behind Karma's family and the people she loves.
Author Tash Hawthorne does a great job through most of the twists and turns throughout the story. The characters are not one-dimensional caricatures of good and evil; good people do bad things and bad people have charm. Hawthorne does a nice job in giving them enough depth so that they become human. All the names are symbolic and Karma's beauty, so essential to the plot, seems a bit beyond belief.
Karma with a Vengeance is entertaining and contains a better storyline than most books of its genre. It is written well enough to keep readers interested.
--- Reviewed by Inda Lauryn "Inda", excerpt from Amazon review
As an only child, 27 year-old Karma Alfonzo-Walker is very close to her parents especially her mother Soleil. Her parents have been separated for some years now since her father Lorenzo keeps his family second to his Military career. Soleil has had enough. And until Lorenzo decides to make her first priority, they will stay apart. Until then Soleil, a beauty in her own right has been keeping company with Jimmy, much to her daughter's Karma disgust. To say Karma didn't like Jimmy would be an understatement...she can't stand him! But with respect to her mother she tolerates him hoping one day Soleil would come to her senses and leave Jimmy behind. Karma is upset with her dad and wishes he would retire from the Military and come back home. She knows deep in their hearts her parents still loved each other and that Jimmy would not be apart of her mother's life if her dad was around.
But tragedy strikes leaving Soleil dead and Karma feeling like the police aren't doing enough to find her mother's killer. Indigo, Karma's cousin and a police officer is none to happy when Karma expresses her need to avenge her mother's murder and take things into her own hands. While Karma maybe putting herself in danger to find her mother killer; she also finds love with police officer Money, Indigo's partner. As her plans for revenge start to take shape and her relationship with Money becomes intense, revelations from the past begin to surface throwing a disturbing light on Karma's new relationship.
I predicted one event prior to it happening, but it didn't take away from my enjoyment of this story. As I kept reading nothing prepared me for the in depth back ground information on Soleil and Karma told by the author's timely steps back into their past. I was astonished, at the repercussions of Soleil's abuse that trickled down to Karma paying the price, and I felt the author did a good job developing the love between mother and daughter.
Yes, Karma with a Vengeance is an excellent title for this recommended read. I like the characters enough to want to read the sequel, so I'll wait and see what author Tash Hawthorne has in store for us. Star Rating 4.0- This star rating is based on the story alone, as I read an uncorrected proof copy of the book. --- Reviewed by Locksie, ARC Book Club Inc.
Karma with a Vengeance by Tash HawthorneGenre: Urban Fiction, Women, African-American, Cuban-American
Purchase the book from Wahida Clark Publishing
http://www.wclarkpublishing.com/wcp-books-karma.htm
Tash Hawthorne comes out strong and does her thing with her freshman novel... Showing that Karma is definitely a mutha! -- J.M. Benjamin, Essence Bestselling author of Ride or Die Chick and On The Run With Love
Tash Hawthorne, born in Summit, NJ and raised in the Valley section of Orange, NJ, cannot be viewed as the typical Jersey Girl. For the first 18 years of her life, Tash had the rare privilege of being raised by three generations of strong Black women; all who lived under the same roof. Having received such ingredients like fearlessness from her mother, compassion from her grandmother, and resilience from her great grandmother, Tash grew to be a product of her environment. One of pure love and unadulterated passion for the human condition.
As a child, Tash dreamed of becoming an Olympic gold-medalist in track & field and an Alvin Ailey dancer, but her hopes to run and dance were soon deferred due to medical reasons. Writing evolved from that of her mother. Tash showed early signs of her gift of script at the age of 9; winning second place in a state-wide essay contest for students in grades 4-6. At age 14, she placed first in another essay contest which consisted of 1300 junior high school candidates along the East Coast.
Despite her early accolades, Tash did not seriously begin writing until the age of 17, three months after the untimely passing of her best friend. Writing became a therapeutic way to escape the unpleasant realities of her surroundings. And it was in that time of salutary that her first screenplay, "The Jaded Edge" was born.
After graduating from high school, Tash went on to attend the first college of her choice, Hampton University, where she furthered her love for the arts, pursuing a degree in theatre. She would soon be faced with another tragedy. Just seven days into her studies at the university, Tash received a phone call from her mother stating that her great-grandmother had unexpectedly passed away. Tash's entire academic world came to a standstill. The woman she used to secretly meet in the middle of the night to eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with had been taken away from her. It would take Tash the rest of her tenure at Hampton to fully recover from the sudden loss.
Having regrouped and accepted God's will, Tash turned her focus back to her studies. With the help of some of her professors and staff at Hampton, she went from being on academic probation to graduating on time with Honors. During her term, she was able to write a second screenplay entitled "Nu JeruSlum" and a stage play entitled "Mourning Glory." After returning home to Orange, Tash began to write a third screenplay entitled "Karma." Throughout that year, she experienced unsettling thoughts about the format of the piece. It was not until a year later when she decided to turn it into a novel. “Karma,” like all of Tash's works, encompasses the reality of life as she sees it and knows it.
Ella: Tash, you've had a full life for one so young! Please tell us about your passion for writing. (A) My passion for writing stems from life experiences (mine and others) and my love for the arts. I write because I believe the genre of urban literature is missing something…and that something is substance. My goal is to give readers an alternate view of the urban world. This goal is what drives me.
Ella: What legacy do you want your writing to leave future readers?(A) My writing offers the following legacy to future readers…a legacy of integrity. When I say that, I mean to say that I stood my ground in telling my characters’ stories. It was important to always tell the truth…their truths.
Ella: Introduce us to your new book, Karma with a Vengeance. (ISBN-10: 0981854508)
(A) There is a time in a young woman’s life where the choices she makes will determine the outcome of her existence in the years (of uncertainty) to come. Those choices will lead to mistakes. The mistakes will lead to hard times. The hard times will lead to answers, searched for by that lost soul. In the urban setting of Newark, NJ, we accompany Karma Alonso-Walker, who, on this journey, gains support from an unwanted, unlikely source through life's greatest troubles.
At the age of 17, Karma becomes caught in the middle of her parents' deteriorating marriage. Due to the unexpected appearance of her father's one night-stand at the family's church on Easter Sunday, Karma's perception of men changes for the worst. With an opportunity to join the US Women's Track and Field team for the 2000 Summer Olympics in Australia, Karma is driven to achieve her dream of winning Olympic gold. But to her dismay, her mother is stricken with Ovarian Cancer. Karma is forced to choose between running professionally at her mother's request or running home to be at her mother's side.
Ten years later, we follow Karma to her mother's home on her fifty-second birthday. Her parents have separated and found comfort in new partners. All the while, unbeknownst to Karma, her mother's boyfriend has made himself a permanent fixture in their life. While trying to protect her mother from her abusive lover, Karma finds herself distracted by the presence of her cousin's new police partner. As distraction and attraction become intertwined, Karma loses focus of her mother's safety. And on the very same celebratory day of her birth, Karma is forced to mourn her mother's death.
Driven by hatred and fury, Karma sets out to find her mother's boyfriend and avenge her death. Having severed her ties with God, been dismissed by her family and the Newark Police Department, Karma becomes a menace to society--and to herself. This timeless chronicle about a young woman's unyielding loyalty to her mother will open your eyes to the way life can be, even when the glass looks half empty. As Karma’s life spirals out of control, her exploration leads her to self-preservation and true happiness…or does it?
Ella: Who are your two main characters? And what do you like most about them?(A) My two main characters are Karma Alonso-Walker and Money Parks. What I like most about Karma is that she is a strong, independent woman who can adapt to any environment. I also admire Karma’s ability to be dependent on someone else when her burdens are too much for her to bear. What I like most about Money is that although he makes many mistakes (terrible ones at that) his intentions are good.
Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?(A) I want readers to know that there are successful people of color in the inner city. Every woman is not materialistic or abusing the system or bedding multiple men for financial gain. Every man is not a drug dealer or a gangster or a male gigolo. For the most part, people are living their lives trying to do the right thing.
Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?(A) I would advise a new writer to not write pieces for the sole purpose of sales or what he/she thinks other people would want to read. I would encourage the writer to write what he/she feels people NEED to know. It is imperative to ALWAYS tell the truth.
Ella: Name three things that it takes to make a successful author in your opinion. (A) A writer must have discipline. For instance, they must have the strength of mind and will to be able to shut the world out so they can immerse themselves in their work.
A writer must be able to deal with adversity. They must have tough skin and be able to take criticism, be it constructive or destructive. They must have an open mind and be flexible in their approach to the art and craft of writing.
A writer must be a consummate student. A successful author reads works written by other authors, not only for pleasure, but also to learn new ways to invent and deliver their own stories.
Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?(A) You can expect the sequel to Karma: With A Vengeance (wink). Seriously, you can expect a continuation of my works in film and theatre in the future. I believe writers should be multi-dimensional. They should never cripple themselves by writing in only one facet of scribe.
Ella: How may our readers connect with you online?E-Mail Addresses: TJade424@aol.com or karmawithavengeance@gmail.com
Web Links: www.twitter.com/tashhawthorne or www.facebook.com/people/Tash-Hawthorne/41003060
Karma with a Vengeance by Tash Hawthorne
Genre: Urban Fiction, Women, African-American, Cuban-American
Purchase the book from Wahida Clark Publishing
http://www.wclarkpublishing.com/wcp-books-karma.htm
Book Reviews for Karma with a Vengeance by Tash Hawthorne
Karma Alonso-Walker loves her family fiercely, particularly her mother Soleil. She would do anything for her mother. So when the beloved matron is killed by her abusive boyfriend, Jimmy, Karma sets out deep into the dark corners of the underworld to take revenge on the man who took away her world. Karma with a Vengeance unfolds through flashbacks and the present day, slowly revealing the real story behind Karma's family and the people she loves.
Author Tash Hawthorne does a great job through most of the twists and turns throughout the story. The characters are not one-dimensional caricatures of good and evil; good people do bad things and bad people have charm. Hawthorne does a nice job in giving them enough depth so that they become human. All the names are symbolic and Karma's beauty, so essential to the plot, seems a bit beyond belief.
Karma with a Vengeance is entertaining and contains a better storyline than most books of its genre. It is written well enough to keep readers interested.
--- Reviewed by Inda Lauryn "Inda", excerpt from Amazon review
As an only child, 27 year-old Karma Alfonzo-Walker is very close to her parents especially her mother Soleil. Her parents have been separated for some years now since her father Lorenzo keeps his family second to his Military career. Soleil has had enough. And until Lorenzo decides to make her first priority, they will stay apart. Until then Soleil, a beauty in her own right has been keeping company with Jimmy, much to her daughter's Karma disgust. To say Karma didn't like Jimmy would be an understatement...she can't stand him! But with respect to her mother she tolerates him hoping one day Soleil would come to her senses and leave Jimmy behind. Karma is upset with her dad and wishes he would retire from the Military and come back home. She knows deep in their hearts her parents still loved each other and that Jimmy would not be apart of her mother's life if her dad was around.
But tragedy strikes leaving Soleil dead and Karma feeling like the police aren't doing enough to find her mother's killer. Indigo, Karma's cousin and a police officer is none to happy when Karma expresses her need to avenge her mother's murder and take things into her own hands. While Karma maybe putting herself in danger to find her mother killer; she also finds love with police officer Money, Indigo's partner. As her plans for revenge start to take shape and her relationship with Money becomes intense, revelations from the past begin to surface throwing a disturbing light on Karma's new relationship.
I predicted one event prior to it happening, but it didn't take away from my enjoyment of this story. As I kept reading nothing prepared me for the in depth back ground information on Soleil and Karma told by the author's timely steps back into their past. I was astonished, at the repercussions of Soleil's abuse that trickled down to Karma paying the price, and I felt the author did a good job developing the love between mother and daughter.
Yes, Karma with a Vengeance is an excellent title for this recommended read. I like the characters enough to want to read the sequel, so I'll wait and see what author Tash Hawthorne has in store for us. Star Rating 4.0- This star rating is based on the story alone, as I read an uncorrected proof copy of the book. --- Reviewed by Locksie, ARC Book Club Inc.
Karma with a Vengeance by Tash HawthorneGenre: Urban Fiction, Women, African-American, Cuban-American
Purchase the book from Wahida Clark Publishing
http://www.wclarkpublishing.com/wcp-books-karma.htm
Book Reviews Wretched Saints by Marc Lacy
Book Title: Wretched Saints - When the Righteous Path Leads to Hell's Doorstep
by Assuanta Fay Howard and Marc Lacy
Between these covers may be your spark to eternal life or a ticket to everlasting confusion...depending on how you look at it. For we all have the greatest intentions at heart regardless of whatever we may desire to accomplish. Our faith provides energy and focus during the lifelong scamper down the path of righteousness. However, one thing that poses the greatest challenge is the fact that no human being can escape being human...’til death do us part. Temptation lies behind each exit off of Heaven’s highways. Detours become more alluring as construction takes place within the most crucial times of our lives - in turn, potentially providing a next day delivery service to hell’s doorstep.
Wretched Saints provides a literary window through which we may possibly see traits of ourselves within one or more of the characters as they learn the hard way to listen when God is talking. Thus His signal, when digested properly allows suppression of sinful urges opening up the door, for spiritual growth.
Are you a Wretched Saint? Open the covers...and see.
Of course our desire is to walk within The Kingdom’s Neighborhood, but it can be very difficult leaving the alluring amenities of home. We have the protocol down pat; especially when others can witness us “witnessing.” However, when backs are turned and the sun has set, the righteous hotness of the self-proclaimed saint can suddenly turn lukewarm. Although the tongue can no longer house rationalizations, we still find a way to verbally cover spiritual deficits...thus casting us further into a pit of unrighteous debt surrounded by several unused shovels.
Wretched Saints Excerpt by Marc Lacy and Assuanta Fay Howard
Book Club or Peer Reviews:
“Wretched Saints illustrates how we all fall short of God’s glory, yet by His mercy, we can get back up.”
- Elissa Gabrielle, Point of No Return
“Wretched Saints is a reminder that we are not always in control. It is torment served on the door mats of Christians, who carry bibles as body armor. It is a revelation to your third-eye.”
- Dionne Character, 2004 Essence Music Festival Best Selling Author/Poet, 7 Pairs of Black Shoes, Street Diva, Twisted Straps and A Sapphire Moon, and WildFlower
“Powerful, gripping, and eye-opening! Walk into the pages of the Wretches Saints and immerse yourself in the captivating stories that lie within. A well-written, thought provoking work of engaging stories.”
- Trice Hickman, National Bestselling Author
“In Wretched Saints, you will be treated to tales of everyday life, learning lessons through the eyes of both saint and sinner alike, some of whom will never learn...until it’s too late. For what is life, but a test of Faith and the Spirit? I hope you will enjoy the trials and tribulations served up by some of the hottest authors in the business, Marc Lacy, and Assuanta Fay Howard.”
- Eric Pete, National Bestselling Author
Wretched Saints
ISBN-10: 0974971235
ISBN-13: 978-0974971230
Categories/genre: Fiction/Drama
List distributors of the book: Baker & Taylor; Lushena
Contact Marc Lacy Online:
http://www.marclacy.com
http://www.facebook.com/marclacy
Purchase the book from Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Wretched-Saints-Marc-Lacy/dp/0974971235
by Assuanta Fay Howard and Marc Lacy
Wretched Saints provides a literary window through which we may possibly see traits of ourselves within one or more of the characters as they learn the hard way to listen when God is talking. Thus His signal, when digested properly allows suppression of sinful urges opening up the door, for spiritual growth.
Are you a Wretched Saint? Open the covers...and see.
Of course our desire is to walk within The Kingdom’s Neighborhood, but it can be very difficult leaving the alluring amenities of home. We have the protocol down pat; especially when others can witness us “witnessing.” However, when backs are turned and the sun has set, the righteous hotness of the self-proclaimed saint can suddenly turn lukewarm. Although the tongue can no longer house rationalizations, we still find a way to verbally cover spiritual deficits...thus casting us further into a pit of unrighteous debt surrounded by several unused shovels.
Wretched Saints Excerpt by Marc Lacy and Assuanta Fay Howard
Book Club or Peer Reviews:
“Wretched Saints illustrates how we all fall short of God’s glory, yet by His mercy, we can get back up.”
- Elissa Gabrielle, Point of No Return
“Wretched Saints is a reminder that we are not always in control. It is torment served on the door mats of Christians, who carry bibles as body armor. It is a revelation to your third-eye.”
- Dionne Character, 2004 Essence Music Festival Best Selling Author/Poet, 7 Pairs of Black Shoes, Street Diva, Twisted Straps and A Sapphire Moon, and WildFlower
“Powerful, gripping, and eye-opening! Walk into the pages of the Wretches Saints and immerse yourself in the captivating stories that lie within. A well-written, thought provoking work of engaging stories.”
- Trice Hickman, National Bestselling Author
“In Wretched Saints, you will be treated to tales of everyday life, learning lessons through the eyes of both saint and sinner alike, some of whom will never learn...until it’s too late. For what is life, but a test of Faith and the Spirit? I hope you will enjoy the trials and tribulations served up by some of the hottest authors in the business, Marc Lacy, and Assuanta Fay Howard.”
- Eric Pete, National Bestselling Author
Wretched Saints
ISBN-10: 0974971235
ISBN-13: 978-0974971230
Categories/genre: Fiction/Drama
List distributors of the book: Baker & Taylor; Lushena
Contact Marc Lacy Online:
http://www.marclacy.com
http://www.facebook.com/marclacy
Purchase the book from Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/Wretched-Saints-Marc-Lacy/dp/0974971235
Books by Author Nanette M. Buchanan
• Latest Release: Bruised Love – “When love leaves a bruise, does it ever heal?” The answer is shown in the lives of the characters introduced in this dramatic novel. Cassandra Smith, who left home for love, finds herself accepting abuse. She has returned home to find her internal strength.
Mary Smith realizes her love for her daughter, Cassandra, has been smothered by her hatred for Trevor Black, the lover her daughter chose. She must rekindle their severed relationship before it’s too late.
Lamont Dearling has been warned, “A woman who has been abused, can never understand real love,” but nothing including Trevor Black will keep him from pursuing his childhood sweetheart, Cassandra Smith. Trevor Black, the abusive lover and part time father of Cassandra’s four children, has found he is no longer on top of his “game”. His abusive dealings on the street, other women and now Cassandra has caused problems that bring deadly consequences.
Cassandra Smith, Mary Smith, Trevor Black, Lamont Dearling and the others, take the reader through pages of a riveting story of love, betrayal and murder.
Bruised Love by Nanette M. Buchanan--Book Introduction
Bruised Love by Nanette M. Buchanan--Book Introduction
• Debut: "Family Secrets....Lies & Alibis" tells the story of D.Q. Mince after his burial. The haunting truths of his life uncover the secrets of his remaining family members. His wife Tonya must face his mistress of thirty years only to find that as his wife she has not been left any of his estate. Tonya Mince will stop at nothing to prevent Nikki Robbins, D.Q.'s lover, and their son Darrell Mince from inheriting D.Q. Enterprises. The haunting truth of D.Q.'s love for Nikki surfaces as his will is read with a confession of his undying love. Nikki is now the new target for Tonya's anger. Darrell and Dershai find they are not just lovers who didn't want to reveal their relationship or what they knew about the deceased. The haunting truth of their love must now become their secret. The chaos uncovered the secrets and the lies but the excuses, the alibi's are in the sequel........
• Sequel: "A Different Kind of Love"- Tonya Mince is keeping her own secrets but when the haunting truth uncovers her past she must confess her indiscretions, the blackmail and drama that led her husband to be unfaithful. Darryl and Derek Mince claim their inheritance from their brother and father only to find that their business deals are leading to death threats and promises of revenge. Darrell and Dershai must confront the family with the truth; the secrets that may rattle the roots of the family tree.
About the Author
Nanette M. Buchanan was born, raised and educated in Newark, New Jersey. After graduating from Arts High School in Newark she attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It was then that she first set her pen to pad, written expressions of her love for poetry. She is a proud mother, wife and grandmother, now residing in Somerset, New Jersey.
Her pad to pen accomplishments include three volumes of poetry; Thoughts, Thoughts & Reflections, and Quiet Times; five children stories and seven novels. Nanette’s first published work and debut novel was “Family Secrets….Lies & Alibis”.
Since then the publication of the sequel, “A Different Kind of Love” and the release of her first volume of poetry, “Thoughts” an e-book hit the market. In October of 2009, Nanette’s murder mystery, “Bruised Love” was released. It is her goal to become a successful author without limits. The author is available for personal appearances, chats and signings.
Books by Author Nanette M. Buchanan
• Bruised Love
• Family Secrets, Lies & Alibis
• A Different Kind of Love
Books are available wherever books are sold and online:
• http://www.ipendesigns.net/
• http://www.amazon.com/
• http://www.bordersbooks.com/
Contact Information
• Website: http://www.ipendesigns.net/
• Share the Video Postcard: http://www.audioacrobat.com/note/CR5Q90VQ
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Meet Author and Wealth Coach Deborah Owens
Intimate Conversation with Author and Wealth Coach Deborah Owens
Deborah is the Wealth Coach on My Generation TV which airs nationally in 30 million homes. She is author of “Confident Investing: A Wealth Building Guide For Women” and “Nickel and Dime Your Way to Wealth”. Her new book “A Purse Of Your Own” is scheduled for publication by Simon and Schuster in 2009.
Deborah is host and executive producer of “Wealthy Lifestyle Radio” a personal finance talk show that airs on the NPR affiliate WEAA 88.9 FM in Baltimore, Md. She is sought after speaker and has toured nationally with B.E.S.T. featuring Bishop T.D. Jakes and Magic Johnson, God’s Leading Ladies, Working Women Events and The NASD Office of Individual Investors. Deborah is President of Owens Media Group LLC, which creates financial empowerment programs for companies and organizations.
A Purse of Your Own is a book that shares how women can create wealth. This books shares the attitudes and behaviors of financially successful women.
• WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
I was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and have lived in the Baltimore Washington DC metropolitan area for the past 17 years. I have spent more than twenty years in the financial services industry and am a former vice president and regional sales and marketing manager with a global mutual fund company.
• WHY WAS THIS BOOK SO IMPORTANT TO CREATE?
This book is part of my larger vision which is “The Power of the Purse Campaign” to engage, enlighten and equip one million women to become financially empowered. Although women have made great strides and earning more income far too many of us are not achieving financial independence. We must change our mindset from earning income to building wealth. My true passion is sharing that society can build wealth on any income.
• HOW WILL YOUR BOOK IMPACT RELATIONSHIPS?
This book encourages women to make sure they put aside funds for the long term. It will require making their financial future a priority. This is a distinct change in societal norms which encourages women to sacrifice for others. This book implores women to create a purse of their own.
• WHAT WOULD YOU SAY HAS BEEN YOUR MOST SIGNIFICANT ACHIEVEMENT WITH THIS BOOK?
My most significant achievement has been the reviews that the book has garnered and its’ reception by women who are embracing the concept of forming Purse Groups to provide support and accountability on the path to financial freedom.
• SHARE WITH US YOUR LATEST NEWS OR AWARDS:
We have had very favorable book reviews. The first from Publishers Weekly which said, “sensible advice…a plethora of resource listings and sound suggestions make this a winner for women looking to gain financial freedom. Book Page said, Owens turns the purse metaphor into a wealth philosophy and provides tips, action steps and “purseonality profiles” for her seven must-have wealthy habits. It starts with cleaning out that purse to cultivate a Wealthy Outlook that allows you to dream big again.
Some of the best advice comes at the end as Owens details how to start your own Purse Club and covers nine “pursessentials.” To that end, we have built a community at www.apurseofyourown.ning.com where women can obtain information on how to get started, communicate with one another and get support.
Purchase A Purse of Your Own today at Barnes and Noble
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/A-Purse-of-Your-Own/Deborah-Owens/e/9781416570813
Author: Deborah Owens
Book: A Purse of Your Own
ISBN-10: 1416570810
ISBN-13: 9781416570813
Website: http://www.deborahowens.com/
Advice from the Top by author Valencia Campbell
»» Listen to the audio book preview
»Advice from the Top by author Valencia Campbell offers tips and advice to minority women and others wondering what it takes to succeed in careers in both the for-profit and non-profit worlds. To gain the insights, Valencia Campbell reviewed research on career success. Then she interviewed fourteen extraordinary minority women, all of whom shared stories about the path to the top of their fields. They include millionaire business owners like Cathy Hughes and Eunice Dudley, nonprofit executive Jane Smith, former White House staffer Zina Pierre, and television anchor Andrea Roane. But this book goes beyond the usual superficial profile of women achievers. Rather, it shares their views on what constitutes success, the factors they consider important to their success, the obstacles they encountered and overcame, and what women can do today to get ahead.
»Advice from the Top will inspire minority women who want to advance their careers. The compelling stories described in this book will, further, help them avoid common pitfalls on the road to success. Better, it outlines the obstacles faced and overcome by successful minority women and provides action steps designed to help readers vault the same hurdles with aplomb. Advice from the Top will also help organizations, educational institutions, and business organizations develop and support career and mentoring programs that promote the success of minority women.
» Praise for Advice from the Top
“You’ve made it possible for many women to benefit from the experience of other women. Because so many of us are so busy just trying to keep our heads above water, we don’t often take the time to share what we know—and what a pity! Sharing is how we women can progress and be in a position to bring other women along. Thank your for caring enough to share this information on so many smart, wonderful, and successful women.”--- Rev. Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. Chair National Congress of Black Women
“By sharing the stories of fifteen successful women of color, Valencia Campbell helps remove myths and mystery from the concept of success, and grounds it squarely in the context of gender, race and class realities. This is a useful examination for all of us.” --- Ellen Bravo, former director, 9to5, National Association of Working Women
“Valencia Campbell has given the nation a very thoughtful examination of the workplaces successes of some of today’s top minority women achievers. Their stories will surely inspire you to set your goals high, as they recount the obstacles they have had to overcome to succeed. I encourage you to consider a diverse set of career choices, like the ones presented here—and I might add, the Congress of the United States. We need you in the House and the Senate too. The sacrifices of such civil rights activists as Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King, Dr. Dorothy Height, C. Delores Tucker and many women before them demand that you take your seat at the table.” --- Congresswoman Diane E. Watson, Ph.D.
“This book is well grounded in research (theory) and practice with the personal stories of dynamic working women that transverse many careers. There is something in this book for any woman who has an interest in advancing her career.” --- The Honorable Judge Mary Terrell, Retired D.C. Superior Court Judge
“I am sure this book will be informative and beneficial to all who read it, especially young people entering the workforce and beginning their careers.” ---Former Maryland State Delegate Obie Patterson
» Advice from the Top: What Minority Women Say About Their Career Success
by author Valencia Campbell
Order from Amazon by clicking here.
ISBN-10: 0313358583
ISBN-13: 978-0313358586
Valencia is a consultant on educational topics and women’s issues Her completed projects include those for the Baltimore Public School System, National Science Foundation, National Congress of Black Women and the National Council of Negro Women. She has taught sociology courses at Howard University and Bowie State University.
Her many awards include: Governor’s Citation for Work on the Improvement of the Status of Women, Woman of the Year for Southern Prince George’s Business and Professional Women, WHUR Hometown Hero Award, 9to5 National Association of Working Women Awards and a Presidential Appointment to the United Service Organization World Board of Governors from 2006-2008. Valencia holds a Ph.D. and M.A. degree in Sociology from Howard University and B.A. in Sociology from Virginia State University. Website: http://www.advicefromtopwomen.com/ ; Email: valenciacampbell2003@yahoo.com
Featured Author- Gloria Mallette
Join me in welcoming bestselling author Gloria Mallette! Nationally acclaimed award winning author GLORIA MALLETTE began her true literary journey by self-publishing her second novel Shades of Jade in April of 2000. By July and 13,000 sold copies later, Gloria signed on with Random House who re-released Shades of Jade in 2001. Shades of Jade made several best sellers lists, including Black Board, Essence Magazine, The Dallas Morning News, and The Washington Post/Washington is Also Reading listing.
Gloria has been featured in The New York Daily News, USAToday, ToDay’s Black Woman, Upscale Magazine, The Dallas Morning News, and The Pocono Record. Gloria also has a featured novella, Come Tomorrow, on the USAToday website.
To her credit, Gloria now has ten published titles including the newly released SASSY, a Finalist in the National Best Books 2009 Awards; Weeping Willows Dance; and Living, Breathing Lies, winner of the National Best Books 2007 Awards and the 2008 Indie Excellence Award.
Intimate Conversation with Gloria hosted by Ella Curry of EDC Creations
Q: Introduce us to your new book SASSY.
GM: Finally SASSY! It took a while but SASSY is now available where ever books are sold. Order your autographed copy from the SASSY page, or order from Amazon.com. If not online, please order through your local bookstore.
Who is Sassy? A successful romance novelist, Sassy Davenport is a woman looking to fulfill her own romantic fantasy. When the man of her dreams steps right out of the pages of her latest novel, Butterfly, Sassy falls madly in love with him. But what evil lies behind Norris Yoshito’s beautiful eyes and sexy smile? Is the man of Sassy’s dream a serial killer of women who made the mistake of trusting him just as Sassy did? When Sassy finds herself caught up in a nightmare of deception and danger, she has to keep her suspicions to herself or fall victim to a heartless killer who sees her death as the ultimate act of revenge
Book Review for Sassy:
"[Sassy] is a fascinating psychological drama...." Harriet Klausner, #1 Amazon Reviewer
Q: Tell us a little about your main characters. GM: The main characters in SASSY are Sassy Davenport and Norris Yoshito. Sassy is a romance novelist who has yet to find the man of her romantic dreams. That is until Norris Yoshito, an architect of Japanese and African American decent, by chance, attends one of Sassy's book signings and purchases ten copies of her latest novel---which impresses her.
The attraction between Sassy and Norris is immediate. Norris is the embodiment of the leading man in Sassy's novel, but Sassy quickly learns that Norris is a man of great compassion and substance when he helps her take care of her cousin Bernard who is dying of AIDS. However, there appears to be a darker side to Norris that frightens Sassy. Women associated with Norris are being murdered and the police believe Norris is the killer. Not knowing what to believe, Sassy fears that she might have to fight the man she loves in order to save her own life.
Q: Who was your favorite? Why?
GM: While I liked Sassy's strength and tenacity, I fell in love with Norris. I liked that Norris was caring, loving, and strong. Norris didn't shy away from Bernard's illness; nor did he back down from Sassy whenever she tried to get the upper hand; nor did he fear his older brother Clarence who had hated him all of his life. Norris was indeed the man that most women dream about being in love with.
Q: What issue, person or thing inspired you to write this story?
GM: Actually, my character, Norris, inspired me to write this book. Strange as it might seem, I kept dreaming about this Afro-Asian man who marries an African-American woman who faces head on the problems they were up against because of his past. My dreams evolved into SASSY.
Q: What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?
GM: One of the issues I addressed in SASSY was AIDS and the other mixed race children in Japan who are technically outcasts in a very purist, racist society. Even today, Japanese people as a whole do not condone the mixing or tainting of their blood by foreigners, especially people of African decent. I even learned that bleaching cream is very big in Asia because Japanese people believe the whiter their skin the better. I had to do a lot of research and it was no surprise that women who bore mixed race children were ostracized. Big surprise---not.
Q: What was your primary quest in publishing this book?
GM: My primary quest in publishing SASSY was to do it my way. My previous publisher wanted me to add a lot of sex to my books, but sex is not what I write. If a sex scene is called for, that's fine, but to write sex to drive the story, that's not me. I write what my characters lead me to write, not what I think will sell more books.
Q: What sets your book apart from other books in your genre?
GM: That's just it, publishers have never been able to pigeonhole me. I don't write in a particular genre which is what sets my books apart from other books. I love mystery, suspense, and romance. Combining the three seem to work perfectly for me, which is why readers tell me they can't stop reading until the very last page.
Q: What was the most powerful chapter or scene in the book for you?
GM: There were several powerful scenes in SASSY that touched me. One in particular was when Bernard, who is dying of AIDS, gets to see his seven-year-old son Brice. Bernard had been afraid that he would scare Brice by his emaciated appearance and tried to end all contact with Brice and Brice's mother Evelyn. When Brice was brought to the house, it was Brice who embraced Bernard and said he would take care of him. I actually cried when I wrote this scene.
Q: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
GM: Interestingly, there is nothing in the content of the SASSY that I would change, it would be the copyeditor who didn't do such a great job.
Q: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
GM: SASSY placed as a finalist in the National Best Book 2009 Awards. I feel fortunate that it has been acknowledged, just as Living, Breathing Lies was in 2007 and 2008 wherein it won a National Best Book Awards and an Indie Excellence Award. As a self-publisher who has been mainstream published, a little validation goes a long way.
I'd like to extend an invitation to readers to visit my website: www.gloriamallette.com to see the videos for both Sassy and Living, Breathing Lies. Books ordered through my website are personally autographed. Writing remains my passion. I am now hard at work on my next book, Shh! Don’t Tell which will be out in 2011.
Sassy by Gloria A. Mallette
ISBN-10: 0967878934
ISBN-13: 9780967878935
Purchase your copy from Barnes and Noble or by visiting Gloria's website for a signed copy.
Follow Author Gloria Mallette
Email: gempress@aol.com
Website: http://www.gloriamallette.com/
Blog: http://blog.myspace.com/gloriamallette
National Best Book 2009 Awards Finalist -- Sassy
National Indie Excellence 2008 Award Winner -- Living, Breathing Lies
National Best Book 2007 Awards Winner AA Fiction -- Living, Breathing Lies
MosaicBooks.com 2007 Bestseller -- Living, Breathing Lies
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