Meet Life Changing Books Authors

Meet Life Changing Books Authors
and the CEO Azarel Smallwood

Life Changing Books, better known as LCB, established in 2003 is quickly becoming one of the most respected Independent Trade Publishers amongst chain stores, vendors, authors and readers. LCB offers a variety of African-American literature including Contemporary Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Urban/Street Literature, Erotica, and a host of other fiction categories.

CEO, Azarel, launched the company with the release of her self-published title, A Life to Remember, and from there she has continued to add best selling authors onto her label. Currently, LCB has sixteen authors and offers outside distribution to selective projects. The success of LCB is a team effort combined with our outgoing authors, and management team.

As of 2008, LCB has joined forces and constructed progressive relationships with both wholesale and retail establishments across the United States of America and abroad. We’ve topped the charts with some of our Essence Magazine best-selling titles such as Millionaire Mistress, Secrets of a Housewife, Bruised 2, and Deep.   In addition, LCB is progressive in contributing to children in need. Visit the Life Changing Books Website: http://www.lifechangingbooks.net/

Life Changing Books presents 4 Urban Literature Sensations!

View the interviews, videos and book excerpts here: http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/lcbauthors.html

Video Introduction: One Night Stand by Kendall Banks

Video Introduction: Snitch by VegasClarke

Video Introduction: The Dirty Divorce 2 by Miss KP

Video Introduction: Money Maker by Tonya Ridley

Purchase all the books from the Publisher's website - http://www.lifechangingbooks.net/

   

Clutch your Pearls Girl Blog Tour

Clutch your Pearls Girl Blog Tour



YOUR DREAMS
I’m sure we all can remember as young ladies growing up, how we had dreams that we wanted to fulfill. We would often fantasize about them, we would share our dreams with our bestie and at times we would make efforts to make our dreams a reality. Now that we’ve grown up a bit and as we look back at our past experiences, some of those dreams are still futuristic, some of them are closer than before, some of those dreams are fulfilled and some of those dreams have been snatched away.
Futuristic Dreams: For those dreams that are still futuristic, I want to encourage you to continue to press forward until you see the fulfillment of those dreams. Keep speaking positively over them as you move closer to their completion. Remember that there is power in your words and you can actually have what you say. So keep saying it until you see it. Keep applying the works that are needed to see it come to pass. In order for a dream to surface into reality, it requires effort, courage, tenacity, stamina and speaking positively over it no matter what.
Dreams are closer, but not yet fulfilled: For those dreams that are closer than before, keep doing what you’re doing, but intensify it so that it can reach fulfillment as well. Whatever you do, don’t give up on your dreams. Your dreams are a part of you, so to give up on your dreams is like giving up on you. Roll up your sleeves and move forward.
Snatched Dreams: Sometimes during the course of our lives there are a series of events that may cause us to lose sight of our dreams and/or for our dreams to be snatched away. Sometimes our dreams are snatched away because of the people we have allowed in our lives. Instead of continuing to follow our dreams, we allowed them to talk us out of our own. This may mean you may need to severe the ties and begin dreaming again. Surround yourself with those who are desiring to do things that are similar to your own dreams. Dust off your dreams and begin going after them!
Completed Dreams: For those dreams that you have completed, I must congratulate you on your hard efforts. It is such a blessing when you have completed something you have deeply desired to achieve. Now that you’ve completed one dream, it’s time to work on the next set of dreams you’ve been dwelling on. It’s not over for you, you have just begun.
As long as we have breath in our body, our dreams continue to flow and grow. So today as we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I encourage you to continue dreaming. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a dream that was life changing for many people even after his death. The dream is still alive and so is the dream inside of you.
If you would like to post something on this blog entry, please do so by sharing some of your dreams and/or expressing encouraging words to the readers about the importance of working towards the fulfillment of their dreams.
I encourage you to dream again! Dust off those dreams and do what is necessary to cause them to become realities.
About the Author
Stephanie McKenny is a licensed minister who resides in South Carolina. She has written one novel and three non-fiction books. She facilities a yearly women’s retreat (dates for 2011 are May 19-21, 2011) and has recently started her own self-publishing company (J & J Publishing).

Visit her website at: www.stephaniemckenny.com for more information.



About the Book
Is Mr. Right…Really Right? Some women are caught off guard when they finally find out Mr. Right isn’t so right after all. By then, their heart, mind, and body are already ensnared by an unhealthy relationship.
Relationships are what keep us all connected. Every woman wants a man of her own whether she wants to admit to it or not. We all have an innate desire to love and be loved. However, there are some relationships we should never entertain. Every man that comes into your life doesn’t necessarily deserve access to your heart.
This book is filled with sister wisdom that brings awareness to healthy and unhealthy relations, exposing unhealthy characteristics in men and pointers n helping you become the woman God intended for you to be.

For More Information

Visit the author online at:
www.stephaniemckenny.com

href="http://www.clutchyourpearls.wordpress.com ">www.clutchyourpearls.wordpress.com>niemckenny.com


View the blog tour schedule at:
http://bit.ly/ClutchYourPearlsGirl

Samara King

Samara King began her literary journey at the age of twelve years old while sneaking to the back of the library and indulging in romance novels; soon after, she wrote her own! She has penned three novels and eleven novellas all within the multicultural erotic romance genre, as well as two poetry collections. Her first collection, The Ebony Kryptonite was published in November 2010 and will be followed by The Naked The Bare. She has been published by Cobblestone Press, Changeling Press, Loose Id, and Total-e-Bound.

Currently she is working on her next SK MINI project under her self-publishing company, Samara King Books or SKB. She recently become a columnist for The Urban Source Magazine. Her column, Real Talk with Samara King will launch in January 2011.

Samara lives in Chicago with her teenage son, where she encounters new adventures every day that service her in the creation of each of her stories!

Club Owner Belinda Gilles has come a long way since the little lost girl from Leimert Park who’d married millionaire Brandon Forde she once was. Now a wealthy widow and independent businesswoman, Belle has finally left her past behind her and severed ties that had left her with nothing but a broken heart. During a chance encounter with a masked stranger during the annual Grown & Sexy masquerade ball, Belle gives in to a soul-stirring passion that reawakes a lust, she’d long thought gone. Now a year, later that unquenchable lust has only intensified as Belle hopes to come face to face with her mystery lover. She could have never suspected for her past and present to collide in one heart pounding moment and losing her soul in the next.

Readers can reach her at: ms_samara_king@yahoo.com or visit her site at: http://samaraking.com

Wounded soul, Jordan Harris knows all about fate and the game of chance. His whole life had been turned around and altered the moment he entered an alley and witnessed the death of his best friend. The stain of the past was neither one he could never erase nor the memory of Belle, the woman he’d always loved. When chance brought them back into each other’s lives, will Jordan walk away or reach for the first glimpse of redemption?

Interview with Samara King


Why did you become a writer? I love creating characters, learning new things and people watching and my plots/characters are birthed from these elements.

When did you know you wanted to publish a book? I knew when I started writing seriously for publication and had the hunger within to see my book in another person’s hands.

Why did you pick the genre that you write? I’ve been reading romance novels since I was in 8th grade and I love the genre, I’m a romantic J

If you could write in any other genre what would it be? I write multi-genres: paranormal, suspense, contemporary, etc.

What is your writing process? It depends on the project. However, I definitely start with character first, picture browsing, reading, etc. and progress to character profiles.

How long did it take you to write your current book? It took about 6 weeks.

What mistakes have you made with this book that you will be sure to correct next time? I think I will not overcomplicate details, lol. In shorter fiction, you try not to leave anything out and I try very hard to do that.

When do you feel most comfortable in your writing zone? When the characters are so vivid that I can close my eyes and see them.

Who is your favorite author? Brenda Jackson Favorite book? I love all her work.

What books are you currently reading? I have not had the time to crack open a book for the last two months but working on rectifying that soon J

What advice do you have for those who are looking to publish their first book? Stay true to your voice, keep honing your craft and never stop learning

~a woman with a vision
www.tamikanewhouse.com
www.twitter.com/tamikanewhouse

Twisted

I have to do what’s best for me……Has been Dionni’s new motto since that horrible night when she found her finance Dale entangled between the legs of her best friend Eva. Enraged and torn; Dionni goes on a hiatus trying to get as far away from Las Vegas as possible to clear her mind and get her heart back in order.

Her much needed vacation was interrupted once Dionni was informed that Tiana, her other best friend was found raped and beaten and now in a coma and was in need of constant care. Being the only family that Tiana has; Dionni has to return home to face her past while trying to put the shattered pieces of her life back together.

Twisted, the highly anticipated sequel to Over and Over Again will explain if the demons of Dionni’s past will allow her to be free; or will they continue to keep her twisted.

Excerpt – I removed my Armani Exchange sunglasses and extended my left hand to take a good look at my ring finger. I was in love with my two carat, sky blue diamond, platinum engagement ring that Dale gave me when he proposed to me.

The ring he gave me just hours before I went on a high speed chase with a damn near empty gas tank through the city of North Las Vegas chasing him and his chick of the moment. The same ring that he gave me before he knew that Ashley, his mistress from the garage was pregnant. The same ring that he gave me despite of the secret love affair that I discovered that him and Eva, my supposedly best friend was entangled in.

Yea, I was oh so in love with this beautiful ring, that I did not think twice as I stood in line at the small pawnbroker downtown to do the inevitable.

I was about to pawn it.

That’s right. I walked up to the elderly Middle Eastern woman that stood behind the counter and asked her for her best offer.

The lady peered at me for a moment over her wire reading glasses, before stepping away to speak to her supervisor. I really was not in the mood for speculations, and I glared right back at her. My hazel colored eyes never blinking.

I knew that we were in Las Vegas, home of big dreams and huge losses. Land of gambling your rent money away, and spending all night at the neighborhood casino trying to flip it back. The city known for its connection of sin, and the motto of by any means necessary; but this situation was not the case.

I am far from being hard up for money. I do not harbor any typical addictions such as gambling, drinking, sex or smoking. I did not have to live by the rules of robbing Peter to pay Paul.

My kryptonite was on a totally different level. My addiction was Dale, and the heartbreak that he proposed on me on so many occasions. Getting rid of this ring was going to be the first step of my road to recovery, and I really didn’t care about what this old lady nor anyone felt or thought about what I was doing.

Pawning this ring was in the best interest of me.

Striving to establish a new flair to the term contemporary fiction, Best-Selling author Ni’cola Mitchell entered the literary scene with one main objective: To Stimulate Your Mind, One Word at a Time.

Through her independent publishing company NCM Publishing; Ni’cola published her debut novel entitled Over and Over Again in June 2009. Following on the heels of her debut’s critical acclaim, The Appetizer: When You’re Not His Main Course was released February 2010. Ni’cola’s growing readership eagerly awaits her next literary masterpiece Twisted, due out December 2010. Much of her work revolves around complex relationship issues situations and Mitchell’s compulsive desire to see women over come challenges.

Over and Over Again was featured in the top ten by EDC Creations Recommended Reading List for the 2009 fall season under Mainstream Fiction and Women’s Fiction. She was recently nominated Self-Published Author of the Year with the African-African Literary Awards Show. She is also a member of the national touring group the Literary Sistah’s.

Because of her outstanding representation of Las Vegas’ African-American community, she was featured in the second edition of Who’s Who in Black Las Vegas. Ni’cola is also a motivational speaker and literary consultant. When Ni’cola isn’t writing, she loves to spend time with her family and volunteer as a mentor for youth activities.

Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Ni’cola Mitchell currently resides in North Las Vegas, Nevada, with her two daughters, Destani and Diamond. She holds a Bachelors degree of Science in Business Management and is currently pursuing a Masters of Business Administration in HealthCare Management.

Get to Know Ni’Cola

1: Introduce yourself.

My name is Ni’cola Mitchell and I am originally from Kingston, Jamaica. I am a single mother of two daughters Destani age 16 and Diamond age 11. I am currently in graduate school, pursuing a degree in Healthcare Management. I am also a head coach of a youth football league cheer team.

2: Tell the audience about your new title Twisted.

The Appetizer is the direct sequel to my first novel Over and Over Again. Even though all of my stories are connecting, Twisted is centered around my main character Dionni Stone.

In Over and Over Again I described Dionni as being charismatic, goal oriented, and very sophisticated. Even though she had everything together on the outside, Dionni was not as successful in the area of love.

Her life was in so much turmoil, which in the end of the book sent Dionni on hiatus.

Several months later, Dionni finds out that her best friend has been beaten, raped, and left for dead which is why Dionni has to come back to Vegas to face her demons. Dionni has a new perspective on life and has come back with a vengeance sporting a new look and attitude. Trying to find out what happened to Tiana; Dionni is faced with a new set of tribulations that she has to face.

I brought back all of the original characters, including Candy, Dionni’s direct foe, and introduced Rain. A young beautiful woman, who’s main focus, is getting rid of Dionni by any means necessary.

This book is filled with so many twist and turns, that I could not believe that I wrote it. It will also explain the importance of not playing with a person’s heart and emotions. I can’t lie, Candy and Rain are both crazy, but Twisted gives the reader an explanation on how they each got that way.

3: Describe how you came up with the title?

Actually, my cousin came up with the title. She just finished reading Over and Over Again, and was like” wow…how that book ended, everyone had Dionni Twisted” in hence the name. So I would like to shout out Autumn for her creativity.
4: Who is the audience for your book? What would you like the reader
to take away from your novel?

Men and women are both the audience for this book. I want readers to find entertainment while learning life lessons at the same time. I want people to understand and see first hand that there are always two sides to every story. This story will hit home on so many levels because we all know one of the characters in this book.

5: Twisted is your third novel, and an introduction to
publishing. What are a few misconceptions you had about the publishing industry before your debut book? Have any of the misconceptions changed?

Over and Over Again was actually my introductory lesson in the publishing field. I learned a lot though from both of these projects. I knew that it was going to be a hard road, so I was actually prepared for the kinks that have been thrown at me. The only misconception that I had was that at some point it was going to get easier. I am faced with a different challenge everyday, but in essence I am always up to a good challenge as well.

6: Multitasking (marketing, promotion, etc.) becomes apparent after
the debut book. Did your writing process change any?

The only thing that changed about my writing process is the speed. In writing Twisted, it took me six months from start to finish; vs. Over and Over Again that took a year.
I try to start off every project in an outline form. I take the topic and use it as the foundation. Then I try to put in as many subtopics as possible. I do not write from beginning to end. I write whatever is in my heart.

7: What upcoming projects or plans do you have that you’d like to share?

Candy my villainess in Over and Over Again, has gained her own story, entitled Candy, and it will be out in the end of the year. Also I will be included into several anthologies.

NCM Publishing is also going to be very busy with the releases of God Don’t Like Ugly, by Rekaya Gibson, A Lil Sumthin, Sumthin, by Imani True and A Generation of Curses by Patricia Bridewell.

Find Ni’Cola at the following:

www.facebook.com/msnicola

www.twitter.com/msnicola

Nicola@nicolacmitchell.com

Purchase the book at:

www.ncmpublishing.com, www.nicolacmitchell.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.booksamillion.com, www.borders.com, www.amazon.com


~a woman with a vision
www.tamikanewhouse.com
www.twitter.com/tamikanewhouse

THE APPETIZER

Biography:

Striving to establish a new flair to the term contemporary fiction, Ni’cola Mitchell entered the literary scene with one main objective: To Stimulate Your Mind, One Word at a Time. Through her independent publishing company NCM Publishing; Ni’cola published her debut novel entitled OVER AND OVER AGAIN. Much of her work revolves around situations that are a compulsive desire to see women over come challenges. Her next novel THE APPETIZER, when you’re not his main course will be released February 2010.


Ni'cola Mitchell is originally from Kingston, Jamaica. Currently she resides in North Las Vegas, Nevada with her two daughters, Destani and Diamond. She holds a Bachelors degree of Science in Business Management and is currently pursuing a Masters of Business Administration in HealthCare Management.


Ni’cola is also a motivational speaker and consultant. Due to the fact that she is an outstanding representative of Las Vegas’ African-American community, she was selected to be featured in the second edition of Who’s Who in Black Las Vegas. Her novel Over and Over Again was also featured in the top ten by EDC Creations Recommended Reading List for the 2009 fall season under Mainstream Fiction and Women’s Fiction. She is also a member of the national touring group the Literary Sistah’s. When Ni'cola isn't writing, she loves to spend time with her family and volunteer as a mentor for youth activities.


Synopsis:

Three girlfriends with totally different lives; or so they think.

Yazmin

Yazmin and Trey have been together for five years. Yazmin enjoys her life as a stay at home wifey. The couple is also expecting twins. Their life could not have been any more picture perfect, until the day Yazmin was involved in a hit and run accident. Scared for the life of her babies, Yazmin almost goes into shock after she attempts to call Trey, only to be greeted by his wife of the past ten years.

Monae

Monae and Malik have had a drama free long distance relationship for the last two years. Malik is a Marine, and is stationed in San Diego. They both have an understanding that once Monae graduates from UCLA, they will have their dream wedding. While planning an intimate surprise party for two in his apartment, Monae discovers that she is not the only one waiting for “her” man to come home.

Nia

Devaugn is in a relationship, but Nia simply doesn’t care. He is the ideal man, and Nia is convinced that if she works hard enough, she can show him that she is all the woman he needs. Stephanie will be a thing of the past and Devaugn can start taking care of Nia and her three children full time. Or will he?

These three friends all have one thing in common; they are their man’s chick on the side. What happens when a woman finds out she is not her man’s main course? But only his appetizer.



Interviews:

1. Are your characters from the portrayal of real people? What inspired you to write this story?
All my characters are fictional, but I did take situations, mannerisms, and characteristics from real life people to create them.

2. What are THREE adjectives that best describe OVER AND OVER AGAIN?
Emotional, suspenseful, hilarious


3. What are THREE adjectives that best describe YOU?

Intelligent, beautiful, hard worker


4. What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book?

I addressed many issues in this book such as infidelity, deceit, low moral and self worth, sex, lies, relationships, friendship, betrayal, and single mothers.


5. NI'COLA: THE SOUNDTRACK. What are three tracks that would HAVE to make it onto the soundtrack of your life and why?

The first song would be Beauty, by Dru Hill. I believe Beauty comes from the inside. I will do anything for anyone. I go the extra mile at all times. One thing that I am complimented on is how well I treat others. I believe those attributes is what makes a person beautiful.

The second would be No More Rain (In this cloud) by Angie Stone. Just like anyone else in life, I have been through a plethora of trials and tribulations. I had to decide that I was going to be stop letting life harbor me, and press forward. So I consider the cloud me and my life, and I had to learn to stop crying and start living up to the potential that I know that I have. I’m only half way there though. The storm tends to come, but I do not allow for the rain to develop.

The last song would be Queen of the pack by Patra. Being from Jamaica, I know all about struggle. But I had to let people know that I am not accepting anything. The song compares life to a pack of cards. It basically states that I am telling you what I am about, and I am not going back on my word. What ever life brings, I will come out on top, and be the Queen of the pack. I make my own destiny, so you better watch out.

6. What is your most valuable lesson about the publishing industry?
That if you stay grounded, focused, and believe in your self, you can put out a successful book that can hold its own among other works in your genre.


7. You're strutting down the street - not a care in the world, looking like a million bucks; what is your theme song and why?


My theme song would be Everyday I’m hustling by Rick Ross. The title speaks for itself



Over and Over Again Book Trailer:


http://www.onetruemedia.com/shared?p=84ddb55c4d52f5fad3db67&skin_id=601&utm_source=otm&utm_medium=email


Appetizer Book Trailer:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPMPi4_bh7Y&feature=youtube_gdata


www.nicolacmitchell.com

www.ncmpublishing.com

www.facebook.com/msnicola

www.myspace.com/nicolacmitchell.com

www.twitter.com/msnicola

www.literarysistahs.com

www.nicola.ning.com

Delilah When Love Deceives Tour

Delilah When Love Deceives Tour

5 Questions with Shelia M Goss

Shelia M. Goss is the Dallas Morning News and Essence Magazine Best-Selling author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are Thorns, Paige’s Web, Double Platinum, His Invisible Wife, Hollywood Deception, Savannah's Curse (March 2011) and the teen series The Lip Gloss Chronicles. Delilah is her tenth novel and first Christian fiction novel. She’s also the recipient of three Shades of Romance Magazine Readers Choice Multi-Cultural Awards and honored as a Literary Diva: The Top 100 Most Admired African American Women in Literature.

What is the hardest part of writing?
Writing for me isn't hard...there just never seems to be enough time in the day to write everything that's in my head.

Have you experienced writer's block?
Writer's block for me is called procrastination...that's when I put everything else ahead of me writing...the solution: stop answering the phone or checking email or reading blogs and get to writing.

Which comes first, the story, the characters or the setting?
The story comes to me, then the characters and the setting.

Fill in the blank. What is your favorite?
Dessert. Banana Pudding
City. Miami
Season. Tie Spring & Fall
Type of hero. Tall, dark, and handsome.
Type of heroine. Independent

How do we find out about you and your books?
My website is http://www.sheliagoss.com/. You can also find me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sheliagoss or Twitter www.twitter.com/sheliamgoss

About Delilah:
Behind every successful man is a good woman. The downfall of a good man is a woman up to no good.
Thirty-year-old Samson Judges is a prominent pastor of the Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana. His church owns land that real estate mogul William Trusts wants. When Samson refuses to sell, William hires Delilah Baker to find out Samson’s Achilles heel.
Money isn’t Delilah’s only motivation for taking the assignment. After watching Samson every Sunday morning on a local television station, Delilah has fallen in love with him. In her mind, there is only one person standing in her way of getting Samson—his fiancée, Julia Rivers.
Samson is far from innocent. He feels his longstanding relationship with God puts him above reproach. His weakness for one woman, Delilah, threatens to ruin his relationship with Julia, his parents, and his church. When he realizes the length Delilah will go through to get her man, Samson vows to protect his ministry by any means necessary.
DELILAH is in stores everywhere or at an online retailer such as:

Amazon http://www.amazon.com/dp/1601628854?tag=officiwebsi03-20&camp=14573&creative=327641&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=1601628854&adid=19YJPN9NQBAAXDJN59CQ&

Barnes and Noble http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Delilah/Shelia-M-Goss/e/9781601628855/?itm=1&USRI=delilah+shelia+goss

Borders

BlackExpressions.com (HARD COVER ONLY)

Interview with Elitess

>


Phyllis Jackson is a graduate of Savannah State University (Savannah, GA) with a BBA in Marketing and a MBA in Public Administration. Phyllis, also known as “The Elitess,” has had a passion for word imagery since 1994. It was that same year in which she wrote her first, award winning poem. Since then, Phyllis has been writing poetry that mainly focuses on the intimacy of the heart, mind, body and spirit. The Elitess’ poems are also based on the life experiences of both men and women. Ms. Jackson’s writings are powerfully vivid on the subjects of self discovery, love, heart ache and growth. In 2007, Ms. Jackson debut book, “Soul Searching Confessions” was published. Her debut book focuses on the nostalgia of our firsts (loves, heartaches, fantasies, self discovery & realization, etc). The Elitess’ hope is that her art reaches the hearts and souls of all who read as well as support her passion. Poems like “Realization,” “Transition,” and “22 to 1,” portray an artistic ideal behind the experiences of many of our lives. In 2010, the second book, Reflection Of A Journey was published.
Interview with Elitess

How long have you been writing?
I have been writing since 1994. My introduction to the artistry of poetry was given at the age of 10.

• What prompted you to write Reflections of A Journey?
I felt compelled to share my life’s story with others. I believe that other people are going through the same things & should know that they are not alone. I, also, needed to display my roots & growth process in my writing, after publishing my debut book “Soul Searching Confessions”.• Your alias is “The Elitess” , why was this name chosen to exemplify who you are as a writer ? Well, people often confuse my name “Elitess” with the term ‘ Elitist”. My name simply means, above average. I do not see myself as being better than anyone, but I do believe that I set myself to a higher standard of life. I make it my business to live, exemplify & deliver greatness in everything that I do. For these reasons, I have been christened as “The Elitess”, but maintain a great deal of humility towards my people.

• What are some of your other projects?
I have had the opportunity to be featured as an Ultra Model Role Model, which has allowed me to reach out to a new market within communities around the world. I am, also, writing monthly poems for One Entertainment Magazine. While embracing all of these great opportunities, I am working to complete my Master’s degree program & working on my third book. “As I Am: Poetic Memoires of the Soul” should be complete by the spring of 2011.

• What are some of the experiences you have gone through as a young black writer?
As a young African American Writer, I have experienced the challenges of self publishing ( self, promotion,editing,managing,etc) I have ,also, experienced the reluctance of acceptance by people who have not initially open to change.

• What words or suggestions would you provide to inspiring writers?
I would suggest that inspiring writers learn the business behind publishing, management, etc. I would also suggest that people should go for what they desire & hope for. Never let anyone stunt your growth or kill your dreams. Only you have the power to stop your progress.

• What are your literary endeavors?
As an author, it is my goal to become a household name. I want to share my experiences & allow them to serve as inspiration to those who are going through similar situations.

Find her at:

http://www.facebook.com/mspljackson

http://www.twitter.com/elitess

http://ArtsofElitess.com

http://www.urbanprofessionals.com


Email: mspljackson@hotmail.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Excerpt of book

Every Woman’s Dream Man
I can, only, describe you as every woman’s dream man.
You seem to hold every woman’s peaked interest in your hand.
With the tone of your voice & with the sensuality in your
Speech, you, effortlessly, knock even the most jaded
Woman off her feet & makes the strongest of women weak.
You are every woman’s dream man.
The wisdom you provide & the respect you, silently, demand
Arouses the imaginations of an woman that comes through
You’re passing. At first meetings, all females hope
That you’re enticing face & strong embrace w/ them
Will be everlasting because…..
You are every woman’s dream man,
Every lady’s midnight fantasy, epitome of perfection
Every female’s answered prayer & every girl’s
List of wants & needs brought to life. Anyone
Woman would be blessed to be titled as your wife;
That is every woman’s dream & in spite of your
Humility, I know that you know that all that you request
Is at your beck & call…
After all you are every woman’s dream man.

All Up In My Business

All up in my business

A Taste of Soul, is an Atlanta upscale soul food restaurant chain; owned by the Livingston’s and is a family legacy, so is staying divorce free for over 50 years.


Adam and Candace have been married for 30 years and are parents to Toussaint and Malcolm.

Candace is working the business in many ways. But a sudden itch almost destroys the 30 year union, and her husband’s life.

The ribs are not the only succulent things about Taste of Soul, so are Toussaint and Malcolm Livingston.

Un-happily married Malcolm has a hungry Joyce wanting to take a bite out of him, after his Dad, Adam, refused her.
His wife Victoria has 5 things one her mind and her husband is not one of them.

Toussaint has been tasting, many saucy ladies around town, But interior designer Alexis St.Clare is about to shut that feast down.

Zoë and Shyla are not friends but have the same goal in mind, Toussaint. They are on the menu but not his main dish!

Chardonnay gets busted mixing things up, but Bobby gets in a mix!.



I loved This Story
This sink your teeth into story was mouth-watering. The tasty tale was sexy and feast you want to devour. Lutishia did a great job bringing this story she gets a high 5 for this new “Lovely” series.

Playing the Hand You’re Dealt

Playing the Hand You’re Dealt
Trice Hickman



Samantha and Emily have been friends from the day they met at Spellman.

Samantha has always had a very privileged life, on the right side of town with two “perfect” parents. She lives her life fearlessly and bold

Emily is focused and has moral values and is a loyal friend.

From the day these two met, they were bonded for life, close as sisters could ever be
But there is a third party in this bond…
Samantha’s father, Ed, a decent, conscientious and honorable man.

Ed has been in love with Emily from the moment he laid eyes on her 12 years ago. The man he is would not act or even acknowledge the forbidden fruit.

Emily is in love with a man nearly twice her age, Samantha’s father.

Brenda, Ed’s status climbing, drama queen and bourgeois wife; is so focused on herself and being the socialite, has a thing on the side that knows her better than she knows.

Gerti the wise and knowing housekeeper knows everyone’s secrets and lies, of 25 years.

What has slowly simmered for 12 years is about to come to a boil but who will get burned?

This sexy and well told story by author Trice Hickman is a 5 star sexy read. I loved how Trice told the story from several angles, my side your side, and the other side. All of the characters and the story lines were believable and well thought out. The dilemmas were absolutely delicious that left you very satisfied with the not so tall tale.

My Favorite Reads of 2010

My Favorite Reads of 2010

Glorious
Bernice McFadden

What Mother Never Told Me
Donna Hill

Wench
Dolen Perkis-Valdez


When I Get Where I’m Going
Cheryl Robinson

Sister Girl Devotions
Carol Mackey

Reverend Feelgood
Heaven Forbid
Lutishia Lovely

Searching For Tina Turner
Jacqueline Luckett

Re-Rambled
Angelia Menchan

Uptown
DeBerry and Grant

Don’t Blame the Devil
Pat G’Orge Walker

Blow Your Mind
Eric Pete

Visible Lives
Dean, Hardy and Clay

Let’s Get It On
Jill Nelson

32 Candles
Ernessa T. Carter

Diary of a Stalker
Electa Rome Parks

The Other Wes Moore
Wes Moore

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Rebecca Skloot

The Help
Kathryn Sockett

Playing The Hand You’re Dealt
Trice Hickman

Living Out Loud
Dr. Cornel West

Beautiful Ugly
Shelia Lipsey

An Inconvenient Friend
Rhonda Mcnight

Big Girls do Cry
Carl Weber

Stand The Storm
Breena Clake

Alibi
Terri Woods

In My Fathers House
E.Lynn Harris

The Conversation
Hill Harper

Favorite Re-Reads

The Hand I Fan with
Tina McElroy Ansa

Naughty or Nice
Chasing Destiny
Eric Jerome Dickey

Book Preview: True Confessions by Electa Rome Parks

True Confessions by Electa Rome Parks

Twenty-eight year old Kennedy Logan is gorgeous, educated, talented, and in love. Unfortunately, Drake Collins has other ideas about the true state of their relationship. Kennedy hopes to turn him around; Drake just wants to turn her out sexually. Kennedy is also searching for her biological mother, who gave her up at birth. She wants answers and she has tons of questions. The enormous weight of these predicaments leads to a failed suicide attempt.

Her overprotective and overbearing mother, Dorothy Logan, moves in with Kennedy and makes it her mission to get her daughter's life back in order. The first step is getting rid of Drake Collins once and for all, but that's easier said than done. Drake has no intentions of going anywhere. Kennedy's ever loyal and fun-loving best friend, Taylor, and her absentee father join forces to help support Kennedy in her time of need.

At her psychiatrist's advice, Kennedy uses writing as her therapy. She starts to keep a daily journal detailing the erotic circumstances and family drama that led up to her despair. Through very personal, funny, and graphic entries, readers will share her confessions. Brace yourselves for a very steamy journey!

Prologue True Confessions by Electa Rome Parks

(Erotic Fiction)

My reality is surreal and happens in super, slow motion. A nervous giggle escapes my chapped, dry and parched lips. I lick them to restore moisture. Then, there is utter, deadly silence. If I listen closely, I can hear my heartbeat beating away at an accelerated pace. My senses are heightened and I marvel over the brilliant, bold colors of my bedroom as I inhale my favorite fragrances, from their spot on my antique dresser, colliding into one another with their potent allure. Even my sense of touch is different somehow. Everything is magnified to the nth degree. It’s like I’m looking down at myself from a huge movie screen with surround sound as I ready myself for the big finale---the final shot and then fade to black.

I’ve never been good at saying goodbye, even on short, weekend trips. I keep the handwritten note short and sweet and pray to God that mother will understand, and hopefully, one day, forgive me.

I don’t mean to hurt her or cause her any fresh pain. I sincerely don't. I hope she understands that this isn't her fault, that I love her with all my heart and being. No matter what, that fact will never change. I’m so thankful and forever grateful that she chose me to be her daughter out of all the orphaned babies in the world. She chose me. I told myself over and over again that that made me special. I needed to feel special instead of unwanted and discarded.

I’ll miss mother the most, but the hurt I feel inside is too unbearable and indescribable. It is too painful for me to continue, day in and day out, with just a hollow emptiness that erodes and corrupts any happiness that briefly surfaces. The dawn of each new day only brings me more heartache and renewed memories. Some memories are like leeches. They latch on for dear life and slowly, ever so slowly, suck and drain all the blood, all the living out of you. You are left with just a shell of the old you and that's no way to survive. Not for me, anyway.

When they find me, I want it to look like I’m sleeping, peacefully. Just like Sleeping Beauty who only needed a handsome prince to kiss her and awaken her from the darkness that engulfed her. However, for me, there won't be a handsome, charming prince to wake me, save me, and ride off into eternity. All my so-called princes were monsters in disguise with their own hidden agendas that attempted to crush and stamp out my self-esteem. Yes, just blessed sleep awaits me.

I chose pills. I couldn’t subject mother to a messy, bloody scene that comes with slitting one’s wrists or shooting one's self. I refuse to take my final breath with that heavy on my heart. I don't think my heart could handle anything else weighing against it. As it is, I feel like I have three hundred pounds weighing me down. Crushing the life out of me.

As I settle myself comfortably on my queen-size bed, slowly pull the red, satin comforter up to my chin and stare at the full bottle of prescription pills carefully nestled in my right hand, I can’t imagine not waking up in the morning.

What will it be like to not see the rising sun? To not hear my alarm clock going off announcing it’s time to get ready for another day of work? Not hitting snooze to give myself another fifteen minutes? Not rushing to finish my morning rituals before I dash out the door and into rush-hour traffic? What will that feel like?

More important to me now, though, is will it hurt? I hope not. I have never been able to tolerate too much pain, physical, mental or emotional. Yet, that’s what Drake has caused me for the last year of my life. Pain. Intolerable suffering.

I only wanted to love him and for him to love me in return. Simple enough. Was that asking too much? My part of the equation was accomplished, effortless. Drake claimed he loved me, but he really didn’t. Probably never could. Didn't know how to love or receive it. After what happened last week, I know he didn’t. Yet, I gave him everything: my heart, my body, my soul. Now, I have nothing left to give myself. I'm empty inside.

As tears slowly flood my weary eyes and blur my vision, I look around my cozy bedroom for the last time. Ever. It used to be one of my favorite rooms in my small two bedroom, one bath apartment. There was nothing better than lighting several fragrant candles, drinking a little white wine and cozying up with a good romance novel. Yes, that was heaven. Simple things excite me. Always have. Watching a sunrise or sunset, waking up to birds chirping in the treetops, walking hand in hand through the park with the one I love, all these things brought me great joy.

Mother will have to understand. I left her a note, propped up on the nightstand, in full view, that explains how much I love her and daddy. What will she think when she can’t reach me tonight? I would love to hear her soothing, loving voice one last time. Yet, I know I wouldn’t be able to go through with my plan if I did. I’d give away my intentions over the phone or mother would pick up on my foul mood and that would be that. I’d wake up another day with this aching, dull pain inside, tearing me apart, bit-by-bit. Pain that dulls and diminishes every ounce of my strength, all the way down to my pores.

Drake Collins. His name leaves a bitter taste on my tongue. Just the thought of him brings bile to the back of my throat. I will forever regret the day I met that man. If I could turn back the hands of time, do it all over again, I would have called in sick that day or run for the hills. I was just fine with my life the way it was. Sure, it wasn’t exciting or glamorous, but it was enough for me. Drake came with the charm, movie star looks, glitz and high drama and reeled me right in like a bass caught at sea. I gladly jumped into his net.

I say a silent prayer of forgiveness as I place one, then two colorful pills on my tongue and swallow dry. I didn't think of getting a glass of water. I can't think. The lump in my throat quickly diminishes. There’s no turning back now. Just like there was no turning back when Drake turned me out. The countdown begins. Ten, nine, eight. . . I've lived a happy life. I have tons of good memories. I've treated others the way I wanted to be treated.

I hope this happens quickly. I steadfastly place three, four pills on my tongue and swallow again. Hot tears start to spill forth and stream down my cheeks as I realize the final result of my actions. Seven, six, five. . . It’s for the best. I need to stop the pain. Will he even miss me? Or will he just move on to his next victim? Will all this be in vain?

I guess I’ll never have that family now. The one I used to daydream and write about in my journal. The family with the almost perfect mommy and daddy and two kids, a boy and girl. The boy would be the oldest, and he'd look out for and protect his younger sister. They'd have cute, adorable names and they'd know they were wanted and loved and cherished by their parents. They'd never feel unwanted.

Four, three. . . I swallow a handful of pills this time. I've lost count as to how many I've digested. As spittle escapes from my mouth, I gag. I wipe the overflow away with the back of my hand and keep right on shoving pills in my mouth until the orange-brown medicine bottle is empty. I look inside, in awe, shake the bottle, and can’t believe the pills are gone so quickly. Just like the illusion of love. If you blink, you'll miss it.

I wonder if Drake even realizes how much I loved him? Now, I wait for blessed relief and peace to take away my hurt and pain. I’m so tired. Tired of loving the wrong men. Tired of giving my all, coming up empty, and getting absolutely nothing back in return. Good sex isn’t the end all to everything. Drake taught me that lesson.

Two, one. . . It won’t be long now. I faintly smile and lay back against my down pillow.

I welcome peace. In my mind, I start silently repeating Psalms 23. I shall walk through the valley of death; I shall fear no evil, for thou art with me. I’m so sleepy. I can barely keep my eyes open. I can feel myself giving in to the fog that slowly invades my mind. Maybe if I close my eyes for a few moments. Yeah, just rest them for a few minutes without seeing Drake’s face behind my heavy eyelids.

Suddenly, I feel lightheaded, like I’m floating on a big, fluffy white cloud, bouncing up and down, giddy with not a care in the world. This is a different sensation that I literally reach out my right hand to embrace and never let go of. Not a care in the world. Nothing matters but blessed, uneventful sleep. I close my tired, weary eyes as the countdown ends. Fade to black.

###

True Confessions by Electa Rome Parks

ISBN-10: 1601622392

ISBN-13: 978-1601622396

Purchase from Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.com/True-Confessions-Electa-Rome-Parks/dp/1601622392

Purchase from Barnes & Noble.com

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© 2010 All rights reserved. Book Excerpt Reprinted by Permission of Electa Rome Parks, author. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Share a link to this page or the author's website if you really like this sample from True Confessions.

About the Author

Electa Rome Parks lives outside Atlanta, Georgia and is the best-selling author of six acclaimed novels, The Ties That Bind, Loose Ends, Almost Doesn't Count, Ladies' Night Out, These Are My Confessions (anthology) and Diary of a Stalker. Dubbed a "book club favorite," avid readers have embraced Electa's true to life characters that tackle prevalent and heavy hitting issues that take them on an emotional roller coaster.

The self-proclaimed Queen of Real, Electa has been a frequent guest on radio shows, nominated for many industry awards and interviewed by numerous newspapers and national magazines. Electa is currently following her passion and working on her next novel and first screenplay.

Connect with Electa Rome Parks online at:

Email: novelideal@aol.com

Website: http://www.electaromeparks.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/electaromeparks

Book Review: Raising Him Alone by David Miller and Matthew P. Stevens

Book Review: “Raising Him Alone”  by David Miller and Matthew P. Stevens

Reviewed by Lynia White, founder of The Quality Corner Bookstore

Millions of black women find themselves in the very challenging position of raising a son on their own. Raising Him Alone is a valuable resourcedesigned to help single mothers to successfully face the challenge. It is written by two men that are passionate about empowering youths todayand dedicated to helping young people succeed. David Miller is Co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer of the Urban Leadership Institute, anenterprise that focuses on creating positive youth development strategies.

Miller has a background in education and has authored several books. Matthew Stevens is the Founder of Empower Today’s Youth, whichprovides youth with tools to make healthy life decisions. Stevens is also a presenter, youth counselor and freshman college advisor. Miller andStevens have brought their experience together to create Raising Him Alone.

Absent fathers has become an epidemic in the black community. It can be very difficult for black single mothers to raise a boy to be a man.Statistics reflect how young black males have been affected by the absence of a father in the home. For example, a recent report ongraduation rates indicates that in some US cities, the drop out rates among black males exceed 65 percent. That is a staggering statistic. Young men in the black community need help. The help that these boys need must start at home. The purpose of Raising Him Alone is to providethe support and guidance that single mothers need to help their sons flourish.

This guide provides so much practical wisdom. Issues such as literacy, sex education and law enforcement are discussed. The importance ofknowing your son is stressed. A mother needs to know what her son’s interests are, who his friends are and what’s in his room. I appreciatethe candid approach of this book. Often, self-help books will dance around sensitive issues. However, the writers of Raising Him Alone arevery honest about their own experiences with raising children and they get to the heart of issues that matter the most. Black women face veryunique challenges when raising sons.

This book is based on interviews with women that have faced these challenges successfully. They share their success and failures so others can learn from them. While the book is directed to mothers, the role of the father is acknowledged. It is critical that boys have a relationship with their father. Mothers are helped to determine how to deal with the connection between their son and his father. The assistance of mentors and otherrole models is encouraged. There is even a section that addresses grandparents that are raising grandsons.

I applaud the effort of Miller and Stevens to help mothers raise their sons alone. The strategies found in this book will benefit any mother that wants to raise a boy to be a strong asset in the community. In addition to this book, there is a website dedicated to this cause. For more information, visit http://www.raisinghimalone.com/.


Reviewed By Lynia White:
Lynia White is a columnist, book reviewer and the founder of The Quality Corner Bookstore. For more book reviews by Lynia, visit her blog at:  http://thequalitycorner.blogspot.com/  and http://www.blackbookreview.com/

A Special Offer

Order books from any of these authors, and get a bookmark for $2.00 or a book thong for $4.00 You must send proof of purchase.

Donna Hill, Lutishia Lovely, Carleen Brice, Bernice McFadden, Trice Hickman, Rhonda McKnight, Cheryl Robinson, Rochele Alers, Bettye Griffin, Shelia Goss, Pat G’Orge Walker, Carol Mackey, JJ Michaels, Roy Glenn, Terrance Dean, Kwan, Pamela Samuels Young, Tracy Darity, Zuri Day, Shana Burton, Aleysha Proctor,
Angelia Vernon Menchan, Tamika Newhouse. You must send proof of purchase


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The Black Friday special this year is RED HOT

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In Honor of EDC Creations Black Book Weekend, Simply Said Reading Accessories has a special offer for every book club. Join us in this momentous tribute to the Gift of Knowledge. I was inspired to create a Limited Edition line of Book Jewels to honor the uniqueness of each book we read.

The one of a kind designs are an exclusive, distinctive, individual, extraordinary work of art just for your group or book clubs. I have acquired some fabulous pieces that are truly gorgeous. The amounts are limited. For your group or book club, I will create a unique piece for each member.

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Caught Up by JB Burrage

BIO: Author JB Burrage is definitely a power to be reckoned with. An extremely talented writer, JB Burrage has written Caught Up, a street thriller that is comparable to the juicy story that you might hear going on in the neighborhood; and the sci-fi thriller Secrets Revealed, a story that adds a lot of realism to science fiction. But he is not done showing the world his talent. Author JB is also working on The Forbidden Lounge, the sequel to Caught Up, and a novel that will be better and juicier than Caught Up itself and is due to be released in 2011. He is also working on other projects that he chooses to keep secret, for now.

Jacob “JB” Burrage was born in Jackson, Mississippi and raised in Meridian, Mississippi. After leaving Mississippi, JB Burrage served in the US Army from 1999 until 2010. During his time in the Army, he has been to Hawaii, Egypt, Israel, New York State, Maryland, and Texas; as well many other states. While in the Army, he discovered himself and his true talents, and decided to pursue that by founding J. Burrage Publications.

Normally a science fiction writer, Caught Up was written in an attempt to express himself through other genres. With the release of Caught Up, JB Burrage is now focused on the publication of Secrets Revealed by the beginning of 2011 and the development of The Forbidden Lounge. He also has a blog series, The Chronicles, at The JBP Chronicles blog at www.jbpublications.com/blog.



Synopsis:

Jeremiah Blackwood is a young, dark and very eligible bachelor who is trying to defy the odds of the stereotypical black man in the dirty south and overcome the small town mentality that constantly threatens his success. Through hard work and determination, he honed his craft as a writer and began making his mark in the community when he met a caramel complexioned girl who could make Buffy the Body look like Miss Celie in The Color Purple. She seemed so innocent the first time they met. Her beautiful brown eyes beckoned him into her lonely soul. Her smile was enticing, yet friendly. He knew she was the woman of his dreams. Much to his surprise, he found that not only was she far from perfect, but soon realized that she was involved in some things bigger than he could wrap his small mind around. Find out what happens when a man gets caught up in a tangled web of lust, lies, and unadulterated drama.



Excerpt:

We just laid there in the bed. I was holding her, and she was resting her head on my chest the way she always did after we made love. Tonight was no different. We were quiet. I think we wore each other out. Sex with Shirley was always good, but I didn’t want to get into it too much because I didn’t want to get sprung. I’ll be damned if I had a girl make me go crazy over some p**y.



We must have been quiet for about fifteen minutes. I was dozing off, but I didn’t want her to spend the night. She was here almost every night this week, and I didn’t want to see her too much. I was about to sit up so I could hint to her somehow that I wanted her to leave. Then, she started kissing my chest. Damn, her kisses felt good. I couldn’t stop her, so I just let her continue what she was doing.



After a few minutes of her kissing on and arousing me, she stopped and laid her head on my chest. She took a deep breath. It seemed like she had something on her mind.



“What’s wrong?” I asked her.



“Nothing,” she said.



“Are you sure?” I asked, concerned.



She said, “I’m fine, baby.” She was silent for a minute. Then, she spoke up. “Jay, do you love me?”



I coughed because my spit went down the wrong pipe. “Do I what?”



“Do you love me?”



What was wrong with her, I thought. What the hell was she sipping on tonight?



“Uh, Shirley, why are you asking me that?” I asked

nervously.



“I want to know,” she answered. “Do you: yes or no?”



Now, I was silent.



“Oh, I see,” she said. “You want to hit it, but that’s it. Never thought about how this shit would affect a girl.”





Interview with the Author/Publisher:



1. What is the mission of your publishing company?

My overall mission/goal for J. Burrage Publications, LLC (JBP) is to publish, distribute, and promote quality books, as well as establish a foothold in the publishing world as a company to be respected and reckoned with. This is especially the case for novels that could really make an impact but haven't been given the chance by other publishing houses. Once JBP is ready to publish other writers, the selection for novels will be very difficult due to the fact that we do not want to just put any type of work out there. Our two mottos basically say it all, “Read into my Dimension, 3-B”, and “Taking over the industry, one book at a time”.

2. What year was J. Burrage Publications founded?

In the spring of 2007.


3. What is the website address for J. Burrage Publications?

www.jbpublications.com, currently has hundreds of unique visitors that view the site on a monthly basis.

4. What inspired you to start a publishing company for self-publishers/new authors?

I am the type of person who likes to have control over his own work, goals, etc. I started JBP after my first attempt with going with a publisher. When I realized I rushed into the project (a sci-fi novel called The Journal of John Baker, (which is what Secrets Revealed is based off of) and wrote Caught Up, I decided it would be best if I handled my own projects. I have made attempts to reach out to a few publishers and agents, which I can't even remember who they are now, but were rejected or didn't get replies back. This further helped me decide that I should just publish my own work. Plus I felt like a mainstream publisher would not understand my work and take away most of its effects. So, instead of dealing with that, I just simply did my research on the industry and started JBP.

5. What other publications are on the horizon for J. Burrage Publications?

Secrets Revealed is in the pre-publishing phase with an anticipated release date of on or about January 2, 2011. The Forbidden Lounge is currently being written.

6. Are there any other services offered by J. Burrage Publications?

Currently, there is J. Burrage Creative Services, which will be a network of writers and graphic designers. JBCS will provide affordable editing and designing services to self-publishers, businesses, and individuals just requiring certain projects. Website is for JBCS is www.jbcreativeservices.com. Also, JBP is launching its own online bookstore, called The Book Store. The Book Store will carry JBP titles and will be another outreach to our reader base in addition to Amazon, whom we work closely with. Also, JBP will start publishing other authors within a year to a year and a half.


7. What’s the future of J. Burrage Publications?

I have a very ambitious goal for JBP within the next 5 years. I want JBP to eventually become a full media entertainment business, publishing books, magazines, stage play productions, and even screenplay productions.



Jacob L. Burrage (JB) can be reached by:

Email: jb39301@jbpublications.com

Telephone: (800) 940-5604



Social Networks:



Facebook: Jacob L. Burrage and Caught Up Book Club

Twitter: JBBurrage

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jb39301 and http://www.myspace.com/jbpubs



Website: www.jbpublications.com

Email: info@jbpublications.com

Blog: www.jbpublications.com/blog

Conversation with Gwynne Forster

Intimate Conversation with Gwynne Forster

Gwynne Forster, bestselling and award-winning author of When the Sun Goes Down, Blues from Down Deep, If You Walked in My Shoes, and A Different Kind of Blues, conjures a riveting story of fractured ties, secrets, and forgiveness in this powerful family drama in When the Sun Goes Down, the sequel to: If You Walked In My Shoes.

Gwynne Forster is a national best selling author of forty-five works of fiction, including her latest of nine mainstream novels, WHEN THE SUN GOES DOWN. Gwynne is author of thirty-six romance novels and novellas, of which the latest novels are DESTINATION LOVE and YES, I DO. She has won numerous awards for fiction writing, including the Romantic Times 2007 Lifetime Achievement Award, the Romance In Color Author of the Year award, the Gold Pen Award and has been inducted in the Affaire de Coeur Hall of Fame.

Gwynne loves to sing, read and listen to music, especially jazz, classical music, opera and blues. She also loves to sing and dance, and enjoys entertaining at small dinner parties. She lives in New York with her husband, who is her true soul mate.


Listen to a lively interview with Gwynne Forster and BAN Radio host Ella Curry


BPM: Mrs. Gwynne, we are celebrating the holidays! What was your most memorable holiday from the past?
GF: My most memorable Christmas holiday was the first Christmas Eve that I spent with the man who is now my husband. I cooked a turkey, the first I'd ever cooked and, to my astonishment, it was a perfect bird. Many things happened that evening that we still joke about. We didn't know each other too well then, and we "tiptoed" around each other, each wanting to assure the other a happy Christmas and neither of us knowing how. We had a wonderful evening, singing, eating, listening to music, telling each other tall tales of our lives and, of course, exchanging gifts. I shall never forget it.


BPM: How do you celebrate the holidays? What are the traditions for your family?
GF: We celebrate Christmas on Christmas eve, always with a roast goose dinner and mounds of gifts around the Christmas tree. We began the Christmas Eve tradition when my step son--then a teenager--got his first girlfriend. Of course, he wanted to have Christmas dinner with her and her family. So we invited her for Christmas Eve, and he went to her family on Christmas day. We liked the custom. We open the gifts after dinner on Christmas Eve. One beauty of that is that I enjoy Christmas day with no work to do.


BPM: What are you most thankful for today? What does all your books have in common?
GF: I am most thankful for Jesus Christ in my life and for the health and well being of my family and myself.

GF: My books have different themes, but everyone of them demonstrates the importance of loyalty and common decency and the rewards of reaching for a higher goal. Website: www.gwynneforster.com


BPM: Mrs. Gwynne please tell us about your latest release, When the Sun Goes Down.
GF: When the Sun Goes Down deals with the strengths and fragileness of relations among family members. When self-made millionaire and widower Leon Farrell dies, he leaves behind a legacy of family dysfunction—and a missing will. The possible loss of a fortune only increases the existing tension between his three grown children.

While handsome slacker Edgar kicks back in anticipation of his windfall, middle child Gunther struggles to save his software business, and fiercely independent Shirley unsuccessfully tries to stay out of the fray. But things soon take an explosive turn. And as the siblings find themselves battling each other to protect their own interests, they’ll face choices that could bring them together at last—or tear them apart for good.

Caught in the middle of her brothers’ ill-will, and doing her best to keep the peace, Shirley is further unsettled when she falls for Carson Montgomery, the smart, sexy private investigator Edgar hires to tract down the will. And when Gunther suddenly falls ill, Edgar’s attempt to manipulate him causes a conflict of interest that will shock them all!

BPM: Are your characters a portrayal of real people?
GF: Not at all. Something about a person may give me an idea, but I invent my characters.


BPM: Who did you write When the Sun Goes Down for? Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?
GF: I wrote it for my readership. I thought that the women and men who have read my novels over the years would enjoy a frank discussion of some of the problems common among people of African descent. I’m not sure you’d call it a message, because I make it a policy not to preach to the reader. My first agent told me that it is a writer’s duty not only to entertain, but to inform. I’ve taken that advice seriously, and in every book that I write, whether mainstream fiction of a romance, I include some worthwhile information as a part of the story.



BPM: If you could change one thing you from your road to publication, what would you have done differently?
GF: I wouldn't have written a romance as my first book. I write mainstream fiction, and some of my books have won awards, but they are always judged as romances, because reviewers associate me with romance. And when they complain about something, it's usually what distinguished mainstream women's fiction from a romance.


BPM: Do you write full time? Describe your writing schedule for your readers.
GF: I write full time. I get up around seven-thirty and usually write from nine to about four Mondays through Fridays. Important errands may interfere with the schedule, but that’s basically it. I write after dinner for about two hours, unless my husband and I are going out or have guests. I often write on Saturdays after I’ve finished my shopping and errands. I don’t write on Sundays. I work in my office, and I don’t listen to the radio unless there’s a program of Mozart music.

BPM: What do your do when you’re not writing?
GF: In the summer, I’m an avid gardener. I love music—opera and classical music, classical jazz, blues, some Sinatra/Nat Cole type popular songs and a couple of old fashioned country singers. I enjoy entertaining at small dinner parties and consider myself a rather good cook. And, of course, I read.

BPM: What does your family think of your writing?
GF: My family consists of my husband and stepson. Both are very proud of my success as a writer and read my books. Although my husband is an academician and not a computer expert, he makes my fliers, brochures, and bookmarks and does an elegant job of it.


BPM: What two pieces of advice would you give to aspiring writers?
GF: Don't be disappointed by rejections. When you get one, clean up the manuscript and send it to the next editor on your list. The appraisal of fiction is, in some important aspects, highly subjective.

GF: Learn English grammar, and cultivate an extensive vocabulary so as to express yourself precisely as you intend. Write each day and, if possible at the same time. Try not to get a habit of procrastinating, and don’t rewrite until, say, you’ve at least written a chapter. It’s best to rewrite after you finish a first draft. Nothing worthwhile comes easy. Join a writing group such as the local

RWA group and attend writing conferences whenever possible. Remember: if you write a page every day, at the end of a year you can have a book.


BPM: Thank you Mrs. Gwynne for joining us today! Readers you can find out more about Gwynne Forster and her books at: http://www.gwynneforster.com/



When the Sun Goes Down by Gwynne Forster
Book Review: 5-Stars by Sharel E. Gordon-Love

Dysfunction can be part of a family even when one looks from the outside in and all appears to be well. In Gwynne Forster's When the Sun Goes Down, we find this to be so with the three Farrell siblings after the death of their father, Leon.

Leon Farrell was an odd character, who seemed to lose touch with real life and the children that most fathers would hold dear to his heart, especially after the loss of his beloved wife. However, he retreated within himself and played a cruel joke on his family, that could have them at odds with one another and ruin their relationships for good.

The eldest sibling, Edgar, was determined to get what was coming to him as a means to an end and continue to be the rebel that he is and live life on his terms. In the meantime, his brother, Gunther, and his sister, Shirley, tried to live their lives in spite of Edgar and the way they were treated by their father when he was alive. No doubt, their upbringing had a lot to do with who they grew to be, albeit, all three different in their own way.

When it was all said and done, secrets were revealed and hidden things brought to the light as this family strived to keep their families together and receive the things that they believed they were entitled to outside of their father and his eccentric ways. At the end of the day, it is about family and the things that we do to remain one.

What I loved about When the Sun Goes Down is how author Forster took her time to tell the story; there was no need to rush the storyline. I recommend this book to everyone who loves stories about family love and romance. This book was provided to me courtesy of the publisher for review purposes.
--Review by Sharel E. Gordon-Love APOOO BookClub


When the Sun Goes Down
ISBN-10: 0758246994
ISBN-13: 978-0758246998

"When the sun goes down on my life, you'll all come apart like ripped balloons." -- widower Leon Farrell

When stingy self-made millionaire and widower Leon Farrell dies, he leaves behind a legacy of family dysfunction—and a missing will. It's soon clear that his three grown children, Edgar, Gunther, and Shirley, don't handle loss well—the possible loss of a fortune, that is. And when Edgar hires a private investigator to track down the will, it's just the beginning of a search that will lead the siblings to re-visit their childhoods, uncover buried secrets, and ultimately learn for themselves what it means to be a family. For as tensions escalate between the brothers—with their peace-keeping sister caught in the middle—an unexpected conflict of interest is brewing that will shock them all—and either bring them closer together or tear them apart for good...    Peek inside the book and read excerpt chapters!


Purchase your copy today. Give as a great holiday gift book!
http://www.amazon.com/When-Goes-Down-Gwynne-Forster/dp/0758246994


ALSO AVAILABLE NOW!
Once in a Lifetime by: Gwynne Forster
ISBN-13: 9780373831944

With a young daughter to support, recently divorced Alexis Stevenson jumps at the chance to become household manager for wealthy businessman Telford Harrington and his two brothers. Though she knows it won't be easy turning their bachelor-pad mansion into a home, she is determined to handle any obstacles, while maintaining a separate life for herself and her daughter. But Alexis isn't at all ready for the red-hot chemistry crackling between her and Telford—or the fact that she's suddenly caught in a maze of unexpected secrets and deep mistrust. But if she and Telford find their way through it—together—can they both embrace the love they so deeply desire?