Diary of A Stalker by Electa Rome Parks

Diary of A Stalker by Electa Rome Parks
ISBN 10: 160162199x
Never judge a book by its cover. . .
Xavier Preston is tall, dark, and handsome, and the problem is that he knows it. He's a bestselling author who is accustomed to adoring female fans, both young and old, flirting with him, throwing themselves shamelessly at him, and trying to get between more than the covers of his novels. He has always been more than willing to accommodate their needs and desires; however, his womanizing days have finally ended. He's engaged to a beautiful woman, Kendall, and he's decided to walk the straight and narrow. Or has he?

From outside appearances, the very stunning Pilar has it all: a great career, a beautiful home, and a trust fund that keeps her financially secure; however, looks can be deceiving. All that glitters isn't necessarily gold. Pilar is searching for her perfect soulmate, and she thinks she has found him in Xavier. She believes in going after what she wants with a vengeance . . . and she wants Xavier. That is not negotiable. She will have him, even if it kills him.

When Xavier meets his fanatical fan, Pilar, he gets much more than he bargained for. What starts out as an erotic one-night stand quickly spirals out of control into a dangerous game of obsession and pain with both parties playing to win.

Think you know what goes on behind the literary scene? Think again

Excerpt
Meet PILAR
I'm your #1 fan.

It's funny how one's life can forever be changed with the utterance of four simple words: I'm your #1 fan. Well, actually, they weren't spoken, but sent to my favorite male author, Xavier Preston, by way of e-mail. Man, I love the World Wide Web.

I couldn't believe it; I had recently finished reading his latest national bestseller, Secret Desires, and to put it mildly, I was simply blown away. I felt like the main character was speaking directly to me, like she was inside my brain, picking it apart, piece-by-piece. I could relate to the storyline . . . totally . . . and the ending was spectacular, took my breath away. Secret Desires stayed with me, languishing inside my soul, like a sweet kiss that lingers into the early morning hours as dawn approaches.

Even though I am an avid reader, I should be since I'm a freelance writer; I typically do not contact authors about their books. I don't get caught up in the entire groupie side of the literary industry. Yes, it exists! Surprise, surprise! There is an entire circle of women all across the country, sometimes entire book clubs, who follow the lives and movement of African-American male writers the same way groupies chase after rappers, rock stars, athletes and actors.

In the book industry, it is just a bit more subtle. For example, the book club president might fly the handsome, fine, articulate male author into her city for the weekend, to discuss his most recent hot release at the monthly book club meeting and to perhaps get the added bonus of getting up close and personal between the sheets. It happens.

For me, however, this was different; Xavier Preston made a lasting impression. And generally it took a lot to impress me because I wasn't into the ordinary and I was determined to tell him, how impressed I was. That is, after I went out and purchased all his previous novels. I had a bit of catching up to do.

A week later, after devouring his other six novels from cover to cover like a delicious gourmet meal, savoring every word, I knew I had to make contact. I simply had an unrelenting urge to speak with him. I couldn't get his lyrical, rhythmic, flowing words out of my head. This man moved me. Moved me like I had never been moved before. I felt a connection. A deep connection.

Early one morning, before I began writing an article for one of the local magazines I frequently wrote for, I sent Xavier Preston my sincere, honest thoughts.

“Mr. Preston, I'm your #1 fan. I know you hear that all the time from readers, but I really, truly am. Your characters stay with me long after I've consumed the last page of your books. I never want your stories to end; they move me. You are super-talented, put these other authors to shame, and I'd love for you to autograph my books. By the way, I have all your novels. When will you be in Atlanta? A true, die-heart fan, Pilar.”

Much to my surprise and pleasure, a couple of days later, I received a simple response.

“Pilar, what a lovely name. Thank you, for the sweet e-mail. I'm so pleased you've enjoyed my books over the years. I'd love to meet you as well. I enjoy meeting and greeting my readers. I will be signing at Medu Bookstore, at 5:00 PM next Saturday at Greenbriar Mall. Please, stop by if you get the opportunity. I would love to see you there. Xavier.”

With a pounding heartbeat, I couldn't believe what I was reading and I re-read it a few more times for clarity. Wanted to make sure I was reading correctly that Xavier Preston asked to meet me. Me. Next weekend couldn't arrive soon enough


Connect with Electa online:
Email: novelideal@aol.com
www.electaromeparks.com
www.myspace.com/author_chick
www.facebook.com/electaromeparks
www.electaromeparks.blogspot.com

Ingredients for Prayer

Ingredients for Prayer
by Eric Lambert


In times of economic turmoil in the lives of so many, people are turning to whatever financial bailout that comes their way. These stimulus packages include reduced costs for services, rebates, two for one deals, and even prayer. The Rev. Eric A. Lambert Jr. believes prayer is the stimulus to improving people’s lives not as a gimmick but by, for one, giving them peace even though they have a bleak financial outlook.

“Through prayer we find a place that guarantees peace,” Rev. Lambert says. “God wants to solve our problems and give us peace.” In his latest book, Ingredients for Prayer: A Practical Approach for Maximizing Your Time with God, Rev. Lambert, pastor of Bethel Deliverance International Church north of Philadelphia, details what he believes is the true purpose of prayer in contrast to the ‘give me syndrome’ of prayer that so many with financial woes seem to have.

“We are often challenged by the worldly view of prayer, and we fall into the trap that makes us think that we are able to use prayer to bully the Lord into doing what we want. Yet I believe prayer is a time for intimacy and connection with God,” Rev. Lambert says. “Prayer by definition is worshipful oratory. By hyper-definition, prayer is an act of intercourse with your soul and God’s spirit. It is you connecting with God until your desires have been replaced by His heart.”


By using “The Lord’s Prayer” as a framework, he examines pieces of this prayer model to show ways to connect with God, like understanding the mind and will of God and becoming dependent upon and receiving the peace of God. Rev. Lambert says having a God-centered and not self-centered focus on prayer helps you to know that “[p]rayer is not about you. It is about the will of the Lord being done through you. To make supplication means that you should bring your request to the Lord; however, you must be sure that your request does not go against the will of the Lord.”

Rev. Eric A. Lambert Jr. responded to God’s call to Jesus Christ in 1971. From that time he was active in Christian ministry, serving in a variety of capacities at Deliverance Evangelistic Church, under the pastorate of the Rev. Dr. Benjamin Smith Sr. In 1987, after God’s leading, Rev. Lambert established Bethel Deliverance International Church in 1987 with seven committed believers, just north of his hometown of Philadelphia. In addition to pastoring, Rev. Lambert is fulfilling his apostolic calling, having planted a number of churches and developed pastoral relationships with both new and seasoned pastors. He remains committed to spreading the love of God to those who do not know Him while stabilizing and fortifying believers. This is evident not only in his church but in the messages of his books. For more information, visit www.betheldeliverance.org.


For more information about Ingredients for Prayer: Maximizing Your Time with God, visit http://ericlambertministries.com.

Follow the Ingredients for Prayer blog tour at http://bitly.com/IngredientsforPrayer.

One Night with You by Francis Ray

One Night with You by Francis Ray
New York Times bestselling author Francis Ray continues her captivating series about the Grayson family and their circle of friends with One Night With You, as two people with no plans for romance find themselves blindsided by desire…

THE THRILL OF THE CHASE...
Cougars, brush fires, snow storms—rancher Duncan McBride tackles it all without a flinch. But the archeologist who’s come to authenticate cave drawings found on his property is the kind of trouble he’d sworn to avoid. Far from the aging academic he was expecting, Raven La Blanc is a stunning woman…and definitely not sticking around this small Montana town once her job is done.

THE PASSION OF A LIFETIME…
The primitive drawings at Duncan’s ranch are Raven’s ticket to the tenured position she’s worked so hard for back in Santa Fe. But there’s no denying the attraction between her and Duncan. Maybe, just this once, she can put her work aside and explore the depths of her own heart and soul? One night may be all it takes for Raven to really find what she’s looking for…

“FAST, FUN, AND FULL OF EMOTIONAL THRILLS AND SEXY CHILLS.”
—Roxanne St. Clair, bestselling author on Nobody But You

Latest Release: One Night with You
November 03, 2009
Series: Grayson Friends Series
ISBN-13: 9780312365066; ISBN-10: 0312365063

When you first started writing, did you think you would ever write as many books as you have and have such a loyal following? Did you know this would become a "business venture" for you?
Francis: I had no idea I would write this many book or have such a loyal following when I started writing. I simply keep trying to write the best book possible, and was blessed to find an editor who kept buying my books. Yes, I always knew that you had to take the business side of writing seriously to stay in this industry for years. It requires a great business head for book promotions and even more professionalism to handle the contracts.

What has been the best and the worst experience you've had on your literary journey?
Francis: The best is after I sold my first book, I've never had a book that was rejected. The worst was walking away from one publisher and unsure if I'd find another publishing house that wanted my books. Scary. Scary.

How long does it take you to write a novel?
Francis: The time frame differs. I wrote ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, my November 03, release in 3 months. IT HAD TO BE YOU, Book #4 in the Grayson Friends series, and the last book I wrote took six weeks.



Do you remember the very first story you ever wrote? What age were you when you wrote it? Was it romance even then?
Francis: I had no idea I wanted to write until Woodewiss' third book. The first story I wrote was Wife For Hire for Black Romance. I was an adult.

Since romance novels have a pretty set formula that they follow, how difficult do you find it to continue to write stories that will make loyal romance readers overlook that aspect of the book?
Francis: The only set formula I can see is that hero and heroine are at odds, but by the end of the story they're in love and the writer has tested that love so the reader knows that whatever happens in their lives their love is strong enough to endure. I'd say the possibilities are endless. My plotting skills, not the parameters, is the challenge I face.

Several romance authors have ventured into writing in other genres such as mystery, etc. Have you ever considered taking that step also?
Francis: I wanted to write Christian fiction and was blessed to have been given that opportunity when Harlequin publishes, HOW SWEET THE SOUND. I've thought of writing young adult but I haven't gotten past three pages.


What challenges have you faced in your literary journey? How did you overcome them?
Francis: Probably the biggest challenge in my literary journey was finding a publisher who wanted to publish African-American romances. Then, when I did find a publisher, distribution was spotty at best. If the book did make it to an outlet, the challenge was getting readers not to think the book was badly written because it was written by an African-American. I overcame the challenge by continuing to write and believing that I had a story to tell that people wanted to read.


What is the one thing that has surprised you the most during your writing career?
Francis: That people think all published authors are wealthy.

What authors influence your work?
Francis: Katherine Woodewiss, Elizabeth Lowell, Amanda Quick, and Nora Roberts.

What are you currently working on?
Francis: I'm working on BECAUSE OF YOU, Book # 6 in the Grayson Friends series.

How may we contact you online?
Website: http://www.francisray.com/
Blogspot: http://www.francisrayblog.com/
Myspace: myspace.com/francisray
Fanclub: readersoffrancisray@yahoogroups.com


Pick up a copy at Amazon
Pick up a copy at Barnes and Noble

One Night with You by Francis Ray ---Read the First Chapter Excerpt





Link to read full screen:
http://www.docstoc.com/docs/document-preview.aspx?doc_id=13513498

TRANSFORMERS The ReVeal-a-tion by Loretta Faith Harris

TRANSFORMERS The ReVeal-a-tion
by Loretta Faith Harris

Director Michael Bay has done it again! “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen” Ranked #1 in Top Box Office Hits bringing in over $112M in just one weekend. If you’ve never been a fan of the Transformer’s action figures or Saturday morning cartoons, this Sci-Fi Action movie is sure to hold you captivated with its noteworthy actors, Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, and Tyrese Gibson.

The setting is earth and the Decepticons will stop at nothing to take over the universe! With their leader Megatron revived from a deep sea nap they insist on retrieving the missing piece to complete their Power FEAT. Of course the Autobots isn’t having it and delivers an over the top combat led by the one and only Optimus Prime. Despite the metal uniforms and heavy weaponry, the Autobots are lost without their guiding light, Sam. Unbeknownst to Sam, he is the key element in this entire equation. Though small in stature Sam was predestined as the “One” to team up with Optimus Prime to take down the infamous Megatron and the Decepticon tyrants!

Isn’t this just like the human nature. We doubt and question our ability to CONQUER and OVERCOME life’s greatest obstacles. Little do we realize that we are destined for VICTORY!

Yes, like Sam You have to dig deep down inside and pull on generations of greatness. You did not just arrive at this mission…your forefathers have been fighting this Good Fight of Faith and it’s not over until You decide to do your part and CONQUER!

I feel this thing…! This word is seeping into someone’s heart and You finally realize that You are walking into your DESTINY. What Your ancestors could not do, the fulfillment of their deferred HOPES and DREAMS is dependent upon Your decision to Act. So Act Now! Step out on Your intuition and seize the moment to FREE Yourself from those DOUBTS and FEARS that’s been eating away at your ZEAL…! No time to wait - it’s time to TRANSFORM into that Man that Woman - You know – That Vision residing in the depths of your SOUL…it’s calling!

This is TRANSFORMERS The ReVeal-a-tion!

Loretta "Faith" Harris, M.Ed.
Children’s Heart Publishing, CCR certified
Author of, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph”

Email: LHarris@chpublishing.org
Website: http://www.chpublishing.org/
Professional Reviews: www.myspace.com/chpublishing

Children's Heart Publishing where we are "capturing the heart of the writer"...™

I Need More by Kimberley White

Introducing Award Winning Author… Kimberley White

Award-winning author Kimberley White resides in metropolitan Detroit. She’s a nurse practitioner currently pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice. She uses her twenty years of nursing experience to address topics such as domestic violence, hypertension and sexual harassment in an entertaining and informative manner. Ms. White speaks at writing conferences and has taught writing courses at several Michigan colleges.

Kimberley White resides in metropolitan Detroit where she is a nurse practitioner during the day and a writer of steamy romances at night. Visit her website at http://www.kwhitewrite.com/   Email: kwhite_writer@hotmail.com



Ms. White’s novels and awards include:
:: Sweet Tomorrows (Genesis Press, April 2001)
:: Dream Jobs To Go: Romance Writing (Intellectua ebooks, June 2001)
:: Lujon 1 (Best Black Women’s Erotica, Volume II. Cleis, February 2003)
:: Acquisitions (Genesis Press, May 2003)
:: Only In My Dreams (BET/Arabesque, May 2003)—Nominee, Best Romance of the Year
:: Tango (BET/Arabesque, November 2003)
:: Hard to Love (June 2004)
:: Forever After (BET/Arabesque, July 2004)—Winner, Steamiest Romance Book
:: Conquering Dr. Wexler’s Heart (Genesis Press, NOV 2004)
:: To Love A Ballantyne (BET/Arabesque, 2005)
:: Sweet Repercussions (BET/Arabesque, 2005)
:: You Never Know (BET/Kimani Press, 2006)
:: Ballantyne’s Destiny (BET/Kimani Press, 2006)
:: All the Way (Dafina, 2008)
:: I Need More (Dafina, 2009)


Community Discussion Questions
Please read Kimberley White's book excerpts and answer the following questions in this forum. Two commentors will be randomly selected to obtain a review copy of Kimberley White latest book. Leave your email addresses with comments here  to enter drawing. All winners will be announced on the Black Pearls Magazine at Facebook on November 27, 2009, during Black Books Weekends with Ella.

1. Why are we willing to sacrifice what’s truly important in life—love, family, health & safety—for fame and money?
2. Role reversal: are men now marrying for money?
3. Are African-American men really portrayed badly in the literature?
4. Are female characters relatable? (Physically? Use of foul language and slang?)
5. Why would an author lose their voice in their own books?

Introduction to I Need More by Kimberley White
Preview Chapters from the book here.

She Has Everything She Wants. . .
Dr. Erika Johnson's life couldn't get any better. Her practice is flourishing and her hunk of a husband Brock can't keep his hands off her--until the day he suddenly leaves her without a word of explanation. Stunned, Erika has no choice but to cobble together a new life on her own. When she serves Brock with divorce papers, Erika is certain he'll sign them so they can both move on. But that's when the surprises really begin. . .

Except The Man She Loves...
Brock is sure he did the right thing. All he ever wanted was to bring joy into Erika's life, not pain and sorrow. But when rumors reach him that Erika is seeing another man, he's torn between what he thinks is right and what he feels is right. Despite everything, there's no denying the fierce attraction she and Brock have always shared is burning hotter than ever. And when Erika finally learns Brock's secret, they must decide if they will face the uncertain future together-or apart. . .   ISBN-13: 9780758222107; ISBN 10: 0758222106   Buy the book, I Need More by Kimberley White, today!

Carbon Copy by Azarel

Sibling Rivalry at Its Finest
by Azarel

Got a sister? Got a brother? If so, you probably can testify to a few low-key feuds over the years. And some folk…well maybe a couple of jabs here and there. What about murder? Yes, I said it…Murder! It’s been done before more than you’ll ever know.

Family melt-downs go back to the beginning of time. Think about Cain and Abel, Marsha and Janet Brady, or even Latoya and Janet Jackson. Of course we hear about sibling celebrity feuds nowadays since every Tom, Dick, and Harry wants to be the paparazzi. Let’s take the Olsen twins, Mary Kate and Ashley. They have billions, yet still have that contention and competition amongst themselves. Now one lives on the West coast and the other on the East. The one thing they have over the rest of us…they have billions to fuss over, most of us don’t.

Sibling rivalry is just something that can’t be erased. If you’re human, chances are you have some crazy stories that come to mind. Do you want what he or she has? Jealous about how they look? Didn’t get your Mama’s shape…ended up with your Dad’s instead? What about being pissed because you are the sibling who didn’t go to college, or the sibling who can’t keep a good paying job?

Oh, and what about your love life. Are you the one upset because your brother or sister stole your man? Yep, I said it. This day in time you never know. You gotta watch your mate with both sexes. But let’s focus on sisters for a moment. Sister rifts are torturous; especially in black women. I’m sure you’re familiar with the saying, “Don’t let me take off my earrings”. Well in 2009, we don’t just fight anymore. What about, “I will kill you!”

Well for now, ingest what I’ve just said. Let author, publisher, Azarel take you behind the scenes and finish the rest in Carbon Copy, a new novel exposing Sibling Rivalry at its Finest.




Carbon Copy by Azarel
ISBN-13: 9781934230671;   Read Chapter 1 of Carbon Copy

Website: http://www.lifechangingbooks.net/   and  www.myspace.com/azareltheauthor

Forsaken

Meet Vanessa Miller, author of Forsaken



Vanessa Miller of Dayton, Ohio is an Essence best-selling author, playwright, and motivational speaker. Her stage productions include: Get You Some Business, Don’t Turn Your Back on God, and Can’t You Hear Them Crying and Abundant Rain.

To date, Vanessa has written the Rain Series and the Storm Series. The books in the Rain Series are: Former Rain, Abundant Rain, and Latter Rain. The books in the Storm Series are: Rain Storm and Through the Storm. These books have received rave reviews, winning Best Christian Fiction Awards and topping numerous Bestseller’s lists.

FORSAKEN is Vanessa’s newest book. Forsaken is the story of a fallen pastor’s journey back to God. Vanessa believes that each of her books will touch readers across the country in a special way. It is, after all her God-given destiny to write novels that bring deliverance to God’s people.




ABOUT THE BOOK
Pastor Jerome Tyler “JT” Thomas is charismatic behind the pulpit, charming to all he comes in contact with, and lethal to those who linger too long. Since the age of twenty-two, when he prayed for God to keep him out of prison, JT knew he would preach the gospel. Bishop Turner makes it possible; but there are strings attached, and now JT isn’t sure he can stay tied down.
Cutting loose causes more problems than JT anticipated. When an old friend from his days on the streets resurfaces and his extracurricular activity comes knocking on his front door, JT’s life and the lives of those close to him spiral out of control. Now he will need divine intervention to make things right. But how much help can a man hope to receive when he feels he’s been forsaken by God

Forsaken by Vanessa Miller (excerpt) - ">


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Corey Barnes

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

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

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







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

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

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

Interview questions:

Where were you born?
I was born in Lakeland, Florida.

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

What's your inspiration or who is?
My inspiration in all that I do is my son, CJ. He is the very best part of me and is the reason I wake up in the morning. He is my heartbeat and my motivation.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
When I was a child I had dreams of either being a pro football player or a lawyer. As you can see, neither one of them took place.

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

How long does it take you to write a book?
It took me a total of 8 months to write my first book. I actually wrote the first character in 5 months, and went back and added in the 2nd, which took 3 more months.
When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I wrote my first book, What Is This Love Thing All About at the age of 32.
Whose writing do you admire most?
The author whose style I admire the most is Eric Jerome Dickey. I also enjoy Dwayne Joseph’s style.

Were you a good student in school?
I was actually a very good student in school.

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

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

Distinct Ladies Bookclub celebrate 3rd Anniversary

Distinct Ladies 3rd Anniversary Party Oct. 10, 2009

The Distinct Ladies extends an invitation for you to celebrate this milestone with us. We have Memphis' Own Recha G. Peay, Best Selling Author Jihad and HollyGrove President and the Nation Best Selling Author Brian W. Smith.

When: October 10, 2009
Time: 4pm till 8pm Doors Open @ 3:30pm
Where: St. Paul Lodge on 423 East Georgia Street, Memphis, TN
Cost: $10 Per Person
Door Prizes, Food, Poetry and More

If you would like to purchase these books in advance or for more info, please email distinctladies@yahoo.com


The Distinct Ladies Bookclub
P.O. Box 271415
Memphis, TN 38167
Tiffany Rainey-President
Josula Williams-Vice President

http://www.distinctladies.com/
http://dlbookclub.webs.com/
http://www.myspace.com/distinctladiesandgents


Intimate Conversation with the Distinct Ladies Bookclub

EDC: Share with us the history of the organization and President's biography.
DLBC: Tiffany Rainey is currently the President and one of the founders of Distinct Ladies Book Club. She was born and raised in Memphis, Tn and currently still resides there. Not only is Tiffany a member of DLBC but she is also a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Sirius Ladies Social Club, and she is also a usher in her church.

DLBC was founded in October of 2006 with 4 women who shared a passion for reading. When we first started little did we know we would grow to be such a tight knit family. DLBC doesn't just read books, but we attend movies, plays, book signing, and we just love to fellowship with one another.

EDC: What is the vision for your organization?
DLBC: Our vision for our sisterhood is to continue to promote authors who are not as well known as some of the greats like Eric Jerome Dickey or Kimberla Lawson Roby. We want to continue to give back to the kids in our community.

EDC: Finish this sentence: Living your best life includes...
DLBC: Living your best life includes being with our children.

On your nightstand now: We are currently reading The Dopeman's Wife

Book all readers should own besides the bible: The Survival Bible by Jihad

Book you've bought for the cover: Casanegra by Blair Underwood

Favorite genre, series or sequels: Urban, Erotica, Christian Fiction

EDC: Your top three authors. Why?
DLBC: Brian W. Smith, President of Hollygrove Publishing is one of our favorite authors. Brian is a very down to earth person. He keeps your interest is his books from the beginning to the end. He also brings new talent to his company, that makes you just wanna read everything he has written.

Memphis Own Sheila Lipsey, author of Beautiful Ugly is also one of our favorite authors. Sheila is a Christian fiction author who always makes you wondering what's going on next. She brings everyday problems and drama into her books.

Jihad, bestselling author of Wild Cherry is a favorite author. Jihad brings erotica to street to "I am gonna keep it real" to you in his books. He always makes you wondering which direction he's going to write in. We have a few more that we love, but since you only asked for 3. I think I am going to leave it at that.

EDC: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
DLBC: Kimberla Lawson Roby, Wahadia Clark, and Jane Jordan

EDC: Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group?
DLBC: DLBC is planning their 3year Anniversary Celebration. It will be held on Oct. 10, 2009 from 4-8. We will have Jihad, Brian W. Smith, Recha G. Peay, and other authors will be stopping through as well. DLBC will be having spoken word, music, and giving way door prizes. Admission is $10 and seating is limited. For more info you can contact us at distinctladies@yahoo.com

You can find us at:
http://www.distinctladies.com/
http://dlbookclub.webs.com/
http://www.myspace.com/distinctladiesandgent

We are also on Facebook and Twitter!!

Wahida Clark

Thug Lovin is the 4th installment of Wahida Clark's series. 4****
I enjoyed the previous books in the series, Tasha ans Trae's relationship changed in Thug Lovin, which left me with questions. Wahida's style is her own unique voice and I admire her a lot. Her life has been a true testimony of what you can do no matter what



Thug Lovin'
ISBN-10: 0446178098 | ISBN-13: 978-0446178099
Tasha and Trae, the hood's favorite couple, are still together following the events of Thug Matrimony. Even with their relocation to sunny Los Angeles, the drama of New York cannot be escaped. From running a nightclub to dealing with models, shady lawyers, big money, new kinds of temptations, seductions, and drugs-not to mention new love interests-can this infamous couple weather all the storms and keep it together?




Wahida Clark Homepage- www.wclarkpublishing.com
Wahida Clark Homepage MySpace- www.myspace.com/wahidaclark

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odebdeb@aol.com
www.facebook.com/simplysaid


I am doing the"Happy Feet" dance around my kitchen! Bernice McFadden gave Simply Said Book Thongs a shout out!!! And look who I'm in company with, Carleen Brice, Nina Foxx and Edwidge Danticat. Ahh Sookie Sookie Now is right! Thank you Bernice. This will be an awesome day, because I woke up to this!

Capital BookFest 5th Anniversary

5th Anniversary Capital BookFest
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Time: 10am-7pm EST

Location:
Boulevard at the Capital Centre
900 Capital Centre Boulevard, Largo 20774

Celebrating 5 Years of Strengthening Families through Reading

Event Description: Presented in partnership with the Department of Parks and Recreation, the Bookfest features author readings, publishing workshops, poetry performances, children's storytelling, teen programs, and over 75 vendors. Free books to the first 1,000 people.

The authors talks include discussions with Nelson George, Tim Reid, Liza Mundy (Michelle Obama: Biography), Sonya Sones, Marita Golden, Lori Nelson, Ronald Cotton (Picking Cotton), Chef Gillian Clark, Sahar Simmons, Le Hinton, Victoria Christopher Murray, W. Ralph Eubanks, Lucille Clifton, Omar Tyree, Kimberly Seals Allers (The Mocha Moms Manual), Charisse Nunes (I am Barack Obama children’s book), and several teen authors.

This year, in response to President Barack Obama’s call to service, the Capital BookFest and the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services will team up to promote healthy homes for children in foster care. Meet Ella Curry of EDC Creations for live reader interviews! Visit http://www.capitalbookfest.org/ for a schedule of events. All ages welcome. Cost: FREE admission


Capital BookFest Founder
Kwame Alexander, a poet, publisher, playwright, producer, dynamic speaker, and performer, is the author of eight books -including the best-selling Do The Write Thing: 7 Steps to Publishing Success, Kupenda: Love Poems, Dancing Naked on the Floor: poems and essays, and The Way I Walk, a collection of young adult short stories.

He has conducted standing-room only publishing workshops, delivered awe-inspiring keynote speeches, and performed his cutting-edge brand of poetry to audiences at numerous conferences, colleges and venues throughout the world, including: Stratford-on-Avon, Brixton Town Hall, Oberlin College, UC Berkeley, Hampton University, Duke University, University of Maryland, America's Choice National Conference, Baltimore Writers Alliance, and the Gwendolyn Brooks Writers Conference.

Alexander has produced over two-hundred literary related special events, the most recent being the First Annual Capital BookFest, a major literary arts festival sponsored by The Washington Post, Chick-fil-A, and The Literacy Council of Prince George's County. Dubbed a "phenom" in the poetry world by The Charleston (SC) City Paper, Alexander has wowed audiences with his electric readings and performances at coffeehouses, theatres, and universities across the country and abroad. In 2002, 2004, and 2005 Alexander was selected as a special guest author for the Library of Congress Poets at Noon Series, and The Washington Post-Maryland Center for the Book Evening in The Stacks Gala.

The founder of two book publishing companies, BlackWords Press and Do The Write Thing , this publishing veteran of over fifteen years is responsible for some of the most progressive, original and exciting fiction and non-fiction on the shelves today. He has published over forty authors in different genres, including: M. Dion Thompson, former Baltimore Sun reporter and author of the critically-acclaimed historical novel Walk Like A Natural Man; Lalita Noronha, author of the short story collection, Where Monsoons Cry; and Michael Datcher, Today Show Book Club Awardee and editor of Tough Love: The Life and Death of Tupac Shakur . Kwame Alexander has served as a judge for several local and national literary awards, including the Georgia Writer's Awards, and the Washington, DC Parkmont Poetry Awards. Among his many board appointments are The CityLit Project, Baltimore's Artscape Festival, and the Hippodrome Arts & Education Committee. Alexander is a graduate of Virginia Tech, where he studied under renowned poet Nikki Giovanni.

He lives in Northern Virginia with his wife and daughter, where he hosts a weekly radio program, Word of Mouth, and serves as poet-in-the-schools for Crossland High School/Prince George's County Schools. When not working on several new and exciting book and TV/film projects, he enjoys reading, writing, and a good game of chess.

Girl, Naw!

Girl, Naw!
LaCricia A’ngelle



Antoinette Walker seems to have it all. Great kids, a wonderful husband, and a counseling practice that’s doing very well. Secrets have a way of resurfacing and threaten, all that Antoinette loves. As she counsels women to forgive on the very issues she’s dealing with, and not forgiving of. Her hubby Maurice, is not aware of the secrets the may destroy their lives. This book was a great lesson on keeping secrets and how they can come back to haunt you. Forgiveness is something you must give yourself first before you can receive the blessings in store for your life.

4**** STARS



Meet LaCricia A’ngelle, author of Girl, Naw!
LaCricia A`ngelle is a licensed Evangelist, writer, and the President and CEO of His Pen Publishing LLC. A native of Chicago, LaCricia currently resides in Tennessee with her four children. Girl, Naw! is her first novel.
Her writing career began when she was a child writing songs, and short stories. LaCricia has always had a God given gift of putting words together.
As a Christian Fiction author, LaCricia not only writes for entertainment, but she also writes for ministry. Her goal in every piece of written work is to draw someone closer to Christ. The characters face real situations. LaCricia writes so that anyone can read her work and get something out of it, whether they are young or old. When you read a LaCricia A`ngelle original prepare to laugh, cry, pray, and stop to say “hmmm.”

Girl, Naw! by LaCricia A'ngelle (excerpt) - ">

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Who Is He To You by Monique Mensah

Who Is He To You by Monique Mensah

Monique D. Mensah is a native Detroiter. She declared her dream of becoming an author at eight years old. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Michigan, she completed her first manuscript. Shortly after, she launched Kisa Publishing, and published her first novel, Who Is He To You. Monique now resides in Southfield, MI where she is raising her daughter and working on her second novel.

Readers will be intrigued by the intelligent exploration of sensitive issues such as cutting, emotional abuse, depression, and drug-addiction.The first page which is filled with intense emotion and a descriptive setting that pulls the reader right into the scene.

Who Is He To You by Monique D. Mensah

When love involves incest, self-mutilation, drug-addiction, and murder, will Simone, Jessica and Ryan fight to hold on or will they escape before it's too late?

Simone, a shockingly beautiful teen, is on the downward spiral of destruction as she battles incest and self-hatred. She finds cutting to be the only way to relieve her pain. She must do something to regain control of her life and restore her family back to normalcy. But Simone may be too late as unexpected events threaten to throw her dream of contentment far out of reach.

Jessica lives the upscale lifestyle of a refined society matron. She strives to be the perfect wife, but without her husband, Ross, she would be nothing more than the abused stripper he rescued 16 years ago. When their marriage is threatened and it forces her to face her past, Jessica vows to do whatever it takes to protect what she has rightfully earned, even if it means murder.

Ryan, a fiery thirty-something, is quickly slipping into depression and prescription drug addiction. As her boyfriend, Anthony, artfully dangles the empty promise of marriage, she watches helplessly as their relationship dissolves. In an attempt to regain her sanity and self-esteem, she finds herself on a mission of self-restoration while trying to save the life of someone she doesn't even know.

As the shattered lives of three very different women collide, they find that they have one thing in common: They're all in a desperate fight to hold on to love. Experience their emotional journey through to the shocking end where these women will experience injury, imprisonment, and even death while crafting new lives from the ashes of their ruination.

Book Video Preview

Book info: ISBN-10: 0578023482; ISBN-13: 978-0578023489.
Visit Monique's site: www.MoniqueDMensah.com

Who Is He To You Book Reviews

“Monique D. Mensah’s debut novel reads more as if written by the hands of a seasoned veteran. Who Is He To You, a riveting story touching on topics such as incest, self-mutilation, and drug-addiction, pulls you in from the first page and doesn’t let go until the final period. Can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!”
– Brian C. Conley, author of Stay and We Were Broken Here.


“Monique D. Mensah has captured the literary world by storm, “Who is he to you” is captivating, intriguing, suspense, and drama all wrapped up into one. A must read for all you book lovers. I read the book in two days, I couldn’t work for reading. I was so caught up in each chapter, I was hungry for more. My sincere congrats to you Monique!”
– Gwen Cannon, author of Scandalous


"This was Excellent and a great piece of writing. Your character development of capturing the essence of each unique character was flawless. You got 'it'".
– Vincent Alexandria, author of Black Rain


“Who Is He To You vividly exhibits Monique D. Mensah’s ability to create a and project animated images from cover to cover. The allure of her hypnotic writing style pulsates immensely within the psyche of each reader…thus addicting them eternally.”
– Marc Lacy, spoken word artist and auhtor of Rock & Fire: Love Poetry from the Core and The Looking Heart: Poetic Expression from Within

"Poignant and stirring, WHO IS HE TO YOU draws you in with the story of Simone. Gorgeous, but greatly misunderstood, we truly understand how beauty on the outside hides ugly underneath. Monique Mensah's writing grabs readers instantly from the first line. WHO IS HE TO YOU was a pleasure to read."
–Sylvia Hubbard,author of Secret, Lies, and Family Ties

Lies of Blue

Lies of Blue by Lynne Forde

This was a great story about what really goes on behind prison walls, between some prisoners and guards. Lynne is a correction officer at a well known prison. She tells a grim story about the un-written rules and goings on within the system. She is also dealing with her own self worth and value. Lynne's lines get very blurred by what she see's and what it really is. She finds out the hard way, there's a thin line between love,lust,abuse,and manipulation. I thought the story was quite real, fascinating and gritty.
4****Star read




Lies of Blue is the story about a young woman who tries to reach her dream by making sacrifices. Somewhere along the line, the wrong sacrifices get made. It's Training Day meets OZ, with a twist of Set It Off.

When Forde gets tired of her dead end job in the City Courts, she embarks on a career in the belly of the beast. With a degree in hand and a little bit of street sense, she decides to try her hand working in River Edge Jail Complex. From day one at the Academy to her last day at Prison, Forde evolves from your average "rookie" into something other than just a woman. To make matters worse, if you put a sexual being in the midst of some of the city's most conniving men and women, you are bound to come up with something a little kinky and very destructive. The more dangerous the game became, the more erotic the encounters became. She goes from Officer, to Hustler, to Vic, to CEO in a matter of 8 years.

Lies of Blue is an expose of what goes on in the belly of the beast, through the eyes of one woman. Lies of Blue teaches you that there are so many people you may come across in life, you never know who is real and who is fake, but that the journey can become a battle of life or death. Choose wisely. What is the price for fulfilling your dream?

How I Made The Angels Cry

How I Made The Angels Cry
Meleisa Betts
Website: www.myspace.com/433250625

"Meleisa Betts has written a soul-searching memoir in order to release her demons, and the depression associated with personal trauma. With her narrative, therapeutic approach, she emancipates herself and her readers--taking us from DESPERATION to INSPIRATION. What a liberating ride!" DR. GWENDOLYN GOLDSBY GRANT, Multimedia Psychologist, Contributing Relationship Expert, Essence Magazine, and Author of "The Best Kind Of Loving"

RAWSISTAZ says
Molly is a woman who never has a dull moment! HOW I MADE THE ANGELS CRY takes the reader on a roller coaster ride filled with many ups, downs, twists and turns. It is almost unfathomable to think one woman can lead a life fraught with so much soul-searching. Her drama-filled life definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Molly's story has moments of happiness, sadness, craziness and madness. Betts did an excellent job of sharing not only her life, but also her life's lessons. Betts has the makings of a great writer with this debut work.

Reviewed by Marcia Brevard Wynn
for The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

Reviews
Missy T says
By Babes on Books Bookclub "MissyT" (Alabama) - See all my reviews
This is such a compelling and gripping account of the authors life. It's all there, the journey though childhood which explains her amazing relationship with her mother, the events that led up to the horrific accounts of rape and injustice. Her fall from Grace which led her to occult practices due to lack of faith and conviction. Her journey into self discovery and love of self while reclaiming her love for God. But this narrative was more than just a account of the authors' life. It was also a form of therapy. The writing of this book offered a chanel to convey messages about abuse, sexuality, and murder.

David A. Jackson
I read this book in one sitting. This book was well written. It took me on an emotional roller-coaster ride. I am not a big fan of memoirs, however-after reading Ms. Betts personal journey, the next book I read will be a memoir. I felt touched by the honesty of Ms. Betts as she gave a bird's eye view of her fantastic and amazing journey. Ms. Betts was very intimate and pulled no punches in expressing her feelings in that experience. At times, I laughed when she was vividly describing her characters physical attributes. I felt sad in her painful telling of her experiences especially when she was raped. I admire her bravery and courage to boldly stand up and bounce back in light of that and many other painful experiences that she had to endure. I am looking forward to her next novel. Thank you Ms. Betts for opening up and sharing your life's experiences. I will strongly recommend this book to my beautiful wife, my family members, my co-workers, and my friends.

Melesia Betts Memoir life and times of Lesbian/Bi-sexual Woman
http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/meleisabetts.htm
ISBN-13: 9780615290508
(self-pub)

Sins of the Father

Sins of the Father
Angela Benson

I knew this was going to was going to be an intriguing read from the prologue. A letter from a mother to her son. She was telling him she was a terrible mother because she didn’t call him on the things he’d done and not done. He promised to make her life easy and to be a rich and powerful man one day and that promise he kept. But Abraham was a successful man with a family, and another family that he ignored for 30 years. After the death of his mother, he tries to make up for the past, by reuniting with his abandoned family. Deborah, his daughter is making small cautious steps, but her brother Michael is hell bent on revenge and can’t get over his anger. Saralyn , Abrahams wife is not happy with his decision to make amends either, and makes no effort to be a part of this process of reconciliation, and gets in the way and throws many ultimatums.

This was a well written story, and I loved Angela’s voice telling it. You can really feel all the emotions from both sides and understand the hurt and love that comes with it. How do you trust someone how has hurt you so bad when they are trying to make amends? And how do you not let it effect your life in the process?

This book is a 5***** star read.




Meet Angela Benson, author of Sins of the Father
Angela Benson’s numerous novels include the Christy Award-nominated Awakening Mercy, the Essence-bestselling The Amen Sisters, and Up Pops The Devil. Currently an associate professor at the University of Alabama, she lives in Northport, AL.
About the Book
Successful media mogul Abraham Martin has great wealth, an elegant wife, Saralyn, and a rebellious son, Isaac. He also has a secret: a second family that no one knows about. Now, after thirty years—driven by the urging of his long dormant conscience—Abraham is determined to do the right thing by finally bringing his illegitimate children into the light…and into the family fold.
But beautiful, manipulative Saralyn will never accept the proof of her husband’s indiscretions. Isaac the heir, shaken by his father’s revelations, will fight mercilessly when his world is threatened, and may lose everything that matters as a result. And while Abraham’s forgotten daughter Deborah is open to the undreamed-of possibilities suddenly awaiting her, son Michael cannot forgive the man who cruelly abandoned them to near poverty. And he’s driven by only one desire: revenge!
Angela Benson’s Sins of the Father is a powerful story of a house bitterly divided—a rich, multilayered family saga of betrayal and redemption, rage and compassion, faith, forgiveness, and ultimately, of love.


LISTEN TO AN EXCERPT

Follow the blog tour at http://bitly.com/SinsoftheFather.
For more information about Angela, visit her at AngelaBenson.com.

Murder On The Down Low

The death of Maya Lavelle Washington, was caused by her fiancé Eugene, and her friends, Vernetta, Special, J.C. and Nichelle want revenge. But at the same time, there is a serial killer killing off some very prominent men in town, with questionable circumstances and similarities. Detective J.C. Sparks see’s a connection between the murders, but her boss Detective Jessup refuses to see it. Special who was closest to Maya, takes her death extremely hard. She is hell bent on proving her death could have been avoided by 3 words. Now those words have taken over her life. Special suspects every man she comes across even the man she truly loves. These 4 friends go on a mission of responsibility and truth, to honor Maya’s life. But Detective J.C. Sparks opens a can of snakes that no one ever suspected.

I loved the suspense and twists this story took. It opens your eyes to many details of the Down Low lifestyle that we may have all seen but never recognized. Pamela Samuels Young has told an awesome story that is probably more truth than tale.

This book is a 5 ***** star excellent read



Meet Pamela Samuels Young,
author of Murder on the Down Low
Pamela Samuels Young is a practicing attorney and author of the legal thrillers, Murder on the Down Low, In Firm Pursuit, Every Reasonable Doubt, and the forthcoming, Buying Time, A desire to see women and people of color represented in today’s legal fiction prompted Pamela to start writing despite a busy career as an attorney. The former journalist and Compton native is a graduate of USC, Northwestern University and UC Berkeley’s Boalt Hall School of Law. Pamela is the fiction writing expert for BizyMoms.com and is on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Chapter of Mystery Writers of America

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Master your craft! Take the time to study writing the same way you would study any other profession. Also, read like a writer. When you read a book you enjoy, study the author’s writing style and the book’s story structure. Ask yourself why the book was a great read. One of the most helpful things I did as a new writer was outline John Grisham’s The Firm and examine the story structure. It helped me tremendously in learning how to build suspense.

Pamela is the Fiction Writing Expert for BizyMoms.com. Her bi-monthly articles cover a range of topics on fiction writing. Here’s a link to Pamela’s article Creating Fiction from Fact.
Follow the rest of Murder on the Down Low Blog Tour at http://bit.ly/MurderOnTheDownLow
For more information about Pamela, visit her at PamelaSamuelsYoung.com.

Murder on the Blog Tour Giveaway


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Please leave a comment to be eligible to win an autographed book and a 25 dollar gift card from Pamela Samuels Young. One winner will be chosen each day for a total of FIVE winners.


Schedule

August 17 - Black Authors Network (9:00 pm EST)
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/black-author-network


DAY 1 | Monday, Aug 17

All The Buzz Reviews
http://www.allthebuzzreviews.com


AAMBC Book Tours
http://www.aambcbooktours.blogspot.com/

Jenny Reed
http://takemeaway-jennala9.blogspot.com/


DAY 2 | Tuesday, Aug 18

APOOO Books
http://www.apooobooks.com

Simply Said Reading Accessories
http://www.simplysaidreadingaccessories.blogspot.com

Sheila DeChantal
http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/


DAY 3 | Wednesday, Aug 19

Black Pearl Magazine
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com

SORMAG
http://sormag.blogspot.com/

Urban Reviews
http://www.urban-reviews.com/aafiction-oct08.html#pamelasamuelsyoung


DAY 4 | Thursday, Aug 20

RAWSistaz Literary Group
http://www.rawsistaz.com

Joey Reviews
http://www.joeypinkney.com/


DAY 5 | Friday, Aug 21

Vanessa Richardson
http://thecertainones.blogspot.com

Faygo's Report
http://instanter.wordpress.com/
Britni Vigil
http://booknookclub.blogspot.com

Somebody's Sinning In My Bed

Somebody’s Sinning in My Bed
Pat G’Orge Walker

When The Sweet Bush Lounge burns down, all hell breaks loose at New Hope Assembly, Church. The Reverend Grayson Young’s “good book” is not good at all. The “talented” First Lady of New Hope, Chyna, is at the church’s mercy and doesn’t know why. Janelle, Chyna’s sister comes to help her sister out, BUT now the sisters Ex Cordell shows up! What a mess. Then add in several pious church members who have their own agenda, and secrets of their own, stirring the pot calling the kettle black.

This was an excellent read an quite a turn for author Pat G’Orge Walker. She has packed so much love, redemption and wisdom in the chaotic tale, of sinners, yet reminds us all that every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.

5 STARS*****

www.simplysaidreadingaccessories.blogspot.com

What Didn't YOU Do???

What didn’t you do?

As some of my followers and readers of this blog know, I do several book festivals, conferences, signings, events etc a year. I am at these events selling and promoting my line of handmade bookmarks and book thongs. I am also there to connect with others who are authors, readers, and industry professionals, like myself. I love doing book events of all types because I am also an avid reader and huge fan of the people I feel blessed to meet. There have been some really great events and some really bad ones. Some I made money at, some I didn’t and some where I barely broke even. In doing so many book events I’ve learned which ones to do and which not to. I’ve also learned how to measure the actual advantages of doing certain one’s that cost a grip and I did not sell a thing.

We would all love to sell out of all of our merchandise at these events. The question is how to make the most of any event? I hear a lot of comments and people speak freely around me because I am not an author, but little do they know I coach authors on how to make themselves stand out in a sea of authors. The very things they are bitching and moaning about are the very things that I tell authors not to do. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.

I recently did a book club conference that had at least 650 attendees. There were many major authors in attendance and readers galore. There were also many self published authors and other venders selling their wares. I had an awesome time. The readers were there ready to buy books and spend money. Several of the readers told me they save all year for this particular conference. I attended this event last year, as a reader and I knew I would be there this year.

It really pained me to over hear negative comments from people who did not feel they were doing as well as they could have, for a laundry list of reasons. Some were valid and some was whining. As I listened, the question then became, what are you NOT doing to make this work for you? Instead of complaining, how do YOU turn this around to your advantage?

To me the obvious first thing was stop wasting your time and energy complaining. You are letting hundreds of people pass you and you’re sitting behind your table moaning and groaning. Look at the glass as half full and figure out how to fill it.

One of the first things I would tell you to do is SMILE. It’s free and welcoming. If you’re pouting and complaining, no one wants to be around you. The readers are your customers. They don’t need to know you’re unhappy. They did not pay to come to this event to see you sulk. They don’t need to know all the politics of what’s going on behind the scenes. They want you to tell them about your book. Smile even if you’re not happy.

The next thing is plan. What is your objective in doing this event? Did you plan on what you want to gain from this experience besides sales?

Why aren’t you getting sales? Are you sitting behind the table waiting for the readers to come to you, or are you standing in front of your table, with your book in hand introducing yourself to the people passing by?


Did you dress you table up? Or do you just have your books on a table, with nothing to grab the attention of passerby’s.

Are you collecting the email addresses for contact later, when the competition is not so steep?

What did you offer in the way of promotional tools and as giveaways, that they will take home and check you out later?

Even if you were not a featured author, did it stop you from coming? Why did you come?

Trust me I have felt the same after leaving some of these events at first, and I have bitched and moaned too. But I learned how to turn it around. I figured out what to do before I got there, while I was there and to have plan A B C and D if necessary in place.

There are many things you can do prior to get the ball rolling, simple things that you can do now

Email all of your fans and let them know your going to be at this venue
Offer them a gift for coming
Find a way to dress up your table that is eye and attention getting
Create your brand and use it
Define your mission
Have an agenda
Build relationships with your social networks
Have several plans in place just in case things are not going the way you want them

While your there
Don’t stand behind the table
Smile
Get email addresses
Read an excerpt
Create a scene from your book
Where a tee shirt with your book title
Pay attention to what others are doing
Meet people
Talk to other authors
Pass out promotional materials that stick

These are just a few things that you can do.

Don’t let what you can’t do interfere with what you can do.
The glass is half full what are YOU going to do to fill it up?

Don’t just show up, show out. Work these events like a job, because they are.


I offer coaching classes on “Novel Approaches” to market your book, and theme scenes for authors on a budget
odebdeb@aol.com