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Showing posts with label #writerwednesday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #writerwednesday. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 6, 2018
#WriterWednesday - BOUNCE BACK #BOOK TOUR
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
#Book Tour and #Giveaway - Ex-Ray
Giveaway:
About The Author
Cheryl Robinson has the Until Ray trilogy set in her beloved hometown of Detroit, Michigan. Cheryl currently resides in Central Florida. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from Wayne State University. This is her eleventh book.
About The Book
ISBN-10: 098471104X
ISBN-13: 978-0984711048
ASIN: B0778P6N72
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
In this journey into second-chance love, author Cheryl Robinson invites us to ponder whether we would rekindle a romance with someone who had broken a promise to forsake all others.
Meet Ray and Sarita Saint. In 1987, they pledged to love, honor, and cherish each other until death. When Ray goes missing a year later, Sarita wonders whether he’s dead or alive. While she was dreaming of their happily ever after, Ray was exploring greener pastures, a new relationship. Sarita—a virgin until marriage—took her vows seriously and believed Ray did, too. Instead, he left their marriage and their life in Detroit to reinvent himself. Sarita always held out hope that he would return one day. And he does. It’s twenty-seven years later, and Ray is determined to find his one true love. What he discovers has him question everything he thought he knew about Sarita, as well as himself.
Connect Socially
Purchasing Link
Tour hosted by Write Now Literary Book Tours
Wednesday, January 3, 2018
#WriterWednesday with #Romance Author Stella Eromonsere-Ajanaku
The first #WriterWednesday interview for 2018 is with the lovely Stella Eromonsere-Ajanaku. Let's get to know her!
AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
SEA: I live in London, United Kingdom. London is the most visited city in the world by international tourists. We have centuries old Monarchy and we have, Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II as the reigning monarch. Her residence and administrative headquarters is located in Buckingham Palace, London.
Also, London has the most international and the largest stock exchange in Europe.
AT: Wow! What genre do you write?
SEA: Contemporary/Multicultural/Interracial Romance
African American Romance, Historical/Paranormal Romance
AT: Love me some romance! Are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
SEA: I’m a published writer with 18 books printed with my name. I write about super sexy heroes and flirty & feisty heroines. My stories are a breath of fresh air, dotted with unexpected twists and are set in fascinating Africa, enticing Europe and enchanting America. An emotional spin with explosive chemistry between the characters you will fall in love with, is what you get when you read my books. Get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even tear your hair out.
AT: Sounds so good! What inspires you to write?
SEA: Simply put, God inspires me to write. My head and heart ticks with characters that have heart and soul, life-size personalities, real emotion and conflicts. Their intense and twisting tales and dialogues keep me inspired to write. When I wake up, I reach for my phone, tablet or notepad to keep track of the storylines, plot twists and witty dialogue.
AT: Love it! Name one book you wish you’d written.
SEA: My Journey. It is still cooking in my head. Someday, I will write it.
AT: I believe you will. What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
SEA: An Inconvenient Obsession by Natasha Tate. I loved it way too much. I laughed a lot, hurt a lot and loved the vivid description and intensity of the chemistry between the lead characters.
AT: I need to check that one out. Who is your favorite author? Why?
SEA: I realize I don’t really have favourite authors any more. I go by the individual books I read and enjoy. There is something I look for when I read a blurb. Once I find it, I don’t worry about who wrote the story.
AT: I can understand that. Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
SEA: Lilac! I love the beauty in the colour because I brighten up any mood and situation.
AT: What would your autobiography be called?
SEA: The Encourager
AT: Nice! Do you believe in love at first sight?
SEA: Oh yes!!! And Like at First sight too…lool! It happens all around us. And I love to write about characters who hit it off straight-away. There is just something super-romantic about love at first sight.
AT: Oh, I agree! If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
SEA: A) I want my motherland, Nigeria, to be a place flowing with milk and honey and a refuge for the hurting, hungry and lost. It is a nation blessed with natural resources by God, but exploited for the benefit of the few.
B) That everyone would know the love of God and of his son, Jesus Christ.
C) I want a beautiful, bespoke house by the seaside surrounded by my wonderful family. So I can write and daily appreciate the awesomeness of God in the vastness of the sea.
AT: Beautiful wishes! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
SEA: Summer for sure. I’m joyful, bright, and fruitful and love to spread the joy around.
AT: Tea or coffee?
SEA: Tea, always.
AT: Why does that not surprise me? LOL. Tell us about your most recent/current project.
SEA: It was a delight to write my new release, titled: “You’re Mine” ~ A Sweet & Steamy Romance. My heroine is African American and my hero has Italian/Nigerian origin. In “You’re Mine”, you will read all abouts the handsome luxury boat builder, Banjo Ricci who wants the fabulous Rachael Johnson, his mum's god-daughter, a woman who might just bring him to his charming knees in Fontvieille, Monaco.
!["You're Mine": A Sweet & Steamy Romance by [Eromonsere-Ajanaku, Stella]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51MEQtvOzFL.jpg)
A Flirty & Feisty Romance Novel
~ Feelings too intense…to ignore ~
"Rachael’s beautiful, brainy & feisty. Every time I see her, my stomach walls tighten and heat gushes to my chest. But she’s out of bounds to me. Aside from the fact Rachael’s my mum’s god daughter, I think she’s pregnant. Only I don’t see any man showing up to claim responsibility for the bump she carries around with pride. But I’m in the city for about a month, not enough time to find out if I want her in my arms or to think of her as mine."
~ Banjo Ricci.
"Banjo’s hunky, sexy & mouthy. He has only come home for a short period to clean up his mum’s finances, yet he’s already sticking his nose in my affairs. Every time I see him, he has no shirt on his back. I should take my eyes off him for my own good. But his body is carved to perfection and his sexy tattoos beg for my touch. No matter how explosive the chemistry is between us, I need to face my health problems and get him out of my thoughts because there are things I can never tell him and there’s no way he’s mine."
~ Rachael Johnson
Can Rachael and Banjo find their way to each other’s heart?
~ From the Author of Naked Attraction: A Sweet & Sexy Romance ~
Purchase Links:
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2sTVhDn
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B073WJBN36/
Okada Books: http://okadabooks.com/book/about/youre_mine__a_sweet__steamy_romance/14789
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/735995
Amazon US Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1548394386/
Amazon UK Paperback: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1548394386/
Createspace Paperback: https://www.createspace.com/7241882
Teaser:
Putting up one hand, Banjo suggested. “I can meet you after your dance class. Tell me where to pick you up.”
With her eyes narrowing at him, Rachael backed away. “I’ve got to run some errands for your mom afterward. I’m serious I can’t go with you. I wish I could.”
There was no apology in her eyes, only an attempt to fob him off.
“Sounds like you’re making every effort to avoid being with me,” he pushed with a need to find out the exact reason she could not bear to be around him.
Gasping with her hands over her mouth, she blinked, looking around as if she was scared his mum could misinterpret his remark. “Why would you think I’m avoiding you? We share the same roof, don’t we?”
“The same reason you declined to give me the job in the first place,” Banjo chimed, adding, “and you know we’re hardly together even though we stay in the same house.”
To Banjo’s shock, his chest pounded waiting for an answer that was slow in coming. But why was Banjo resolute to make her spill her fears?
“Which is?” Rachael quizzed, her eyes hunting his openly and her kiss-me-now lips pressed together.
“The fact you find me easy on your eyes and you’re attracted to me.”
AT: How can readers connect with you?
SEA: All Flirty & Feisty Romance Novels are available on:
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Stella-Eromonsere-Ajanaku/e/B004LXE09E
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Stella-Eromonsere-Ajanaku/e/B004LXE09E
Okada Books: http://okadabooks.com/search?term=Stella+Eromonsere-Ajanaku
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/interview/StellaE1
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/stella-eromonsere-ajanaku?store=allproducts&keyword=stella+eromonsere-ajanaku
Website: http://www.flirtyandfeistyromancenovel.co.uk/
Connect with Stella on Social Media
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flirtyandfeistyromancenovels?v=wall&ref=pdem
Blog: http://flirtyandfeistyromance.blogspot.co.uk/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4538936.Stella_Eromonsere_Ajanaku
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/106790524289597144280/posts
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/eromonsereajana/
Flirty & Feisty Romance
Our promise...is to deliver an intensely emotional experience you'll never forget.
AT: Any final words?
SEA: Embrace challenges. They are stepping stones to your success.
AT: Amen!
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
#WriterWednesday with Author Chelle Ramsey
Today's #WriterWednesday interview is with the immensely talented, Chelle Ramsey!! Get to know her!
AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
CR: I live in the ATL, home of the 2000 Olympics, or as JD says “Where the players play.” So, yes, we’re famous for our juicy peaches, Coca-Cola, and of course hip-hop and our rappers, T.I., Ludacris, Gucci Mane, Lil Jon, Andre 3000, Big Boi, J.D., and so many others who have made a mark in the industry.
AT: Okay!! Come through, ATL! What genre do you write?
CR: I write women’s fiction, because it allows me to use daily women’s issues in a dramatic way to drive home an empowering, impactful, and inspirational message.
AT: And you do it well!! I already know the answer to this one, but for my blog readers, are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
CR: I have six published novels, including The House of BeJeweled series. I have three waiting to be published, and two waiting to be re-released.
AT: Love your books! What inspires you to write?
CR: Life inspires me to write. I see love, hope, joy, and peace all around me. However, I also see hurt, pain, suffering, and fear, and I want to uplift those who struggle with it so that they can be empowered to rise above their limitations.
AT: Beautiful! Name one book you wish you’d written.
CR: There isn’t a book that I wish I’d written. I’ve already written the ones that I wish were written.
AT: I ain't mad at you! What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
CR: In all honesty, it was your book, Breathe Again. I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially how Maria was able to move to healing after the devastating event that occurred in her life. I loved how patient Malachi was with her and loved on her until she gained self-confidence and strength. I have been blessed to have a man like Malachi in my life, and I thank Almighty God for him daily.
AT: Wow! Thanks so much!! Who is your favorite author? Why?
CR: I have so many from Terri McMillan to James Patterson, Chicki Brown to you, Adrienne. There are some wonderful writers out there, but I love you all because you write relatable stories that deal with issues that people struggle with daily. I love James Patterson for the mysterious element that he brings into my life.
AT: Those are some of my favs, too! Including me! LOL. Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
CR: Phoenix Blue because I bring the fiyah in my art! The hotter the fire the deeper the blue. My writing skills are undeniable like a phoenix rising. Like the deepest blue, there’s something in my eyes that lets you know there’s always something hidden deep within me that you will never know.
AT: Yes, honey!! What would your autobiography be called?
CR: “And Still I Rise…”
AT: Nice! Do you believe in love at first sight?
CR: No. I believe you can fall in lust and deep desire, but you really don’t know that person. Love is about sacrifice, commitment, and getting to know yourself and what you will and won’t go through for someone else, and getting to know the other person on that journey. It’s about going through the fire together. You have no idea that you would do that for someone you don’t know.
AT: Great points! If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
CR: Financial prosperity, healed relationships that are broken in my family, and deliverance for those who are bound and broken.
AT: I love those! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
CR: I’m fall all day, all night, all season, and all year long. Like fall, I’m a little bit chill and laid back. I’m not overly bright, but I love comfort, easygoing, laid back days, and my personality is pretty much the same.
AT: Great description! Tea or coffee?
CR: Tea! Especially sweet southern and chai.
AT: Yum! Tell us about your most recent/current project.
CR: My most recent release has been A Woman’s Design: Afflictions.
![A Woman's Design: Afflictions by [Ramsey, Chelle]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61WWh-whdtL.jpg)
Blurb:
Ambiance – Loving her husband, building her brand, and being there for her girls are the only things that matter to her. But she’s quickly learning that her love is not enough to build a strong, stable marriage. Surrounded by family, friends and business constituents should be enough; yet, she’s all alone. When her love isn’t enough to suffice her husband’s needs, Ambiance considers stepping beyond the vows and taking matters into her own hands. When the results are tragic she finds herself questioning her marriage, her life, and running to the Lord.
Naomi – As a teen she made the decision to be a single mother. Choosing to build her life around her daughter has molded and shaped all the decisions she has made until now. Her relationship with her daughter is highly valued and nothing can shake it, not even her daughter’s attempts to grow up. But when her daughter’s so-called “deceased” father comes back, Naomi’s carefully constructed world may begin to crumble. Her efforts to protect her child may be the one thing that pushes her away, and she must decide if she will open herself up to love again.
Paige- running from her inner demons she struggles to build a life vastly different than her mother and aunt’s. With a mindset of use or be used, she takes the concept of “love ‘em and leave ‘em” to a new level, and her promiscuous lifestyle is a cause of concern for all those who love her. She doesn’t care whose heart she’s breaking or whose life she’s ruining, it’s all about her. Until it no longer is. Paige finds herself engaged in a deadly attraction that will cost someone their very life.
Three women are on a journey of self-discovery, as they deal with the fallout from choices made from emotion rather than self-awareness.
Excerpt:
We dug into our food after saying our grace. Food was a common denominator among most people, which induced a peaceful atmosphere. And my daughter and I were both enjoying one now. But that peace only lasted so long.
As we finished our meal, I heard a distantly familiar voice behind me. I hadn’t heard that voice in a while and thought maybe I was mistaken. Something told me not to turn around in my seat, but I ignored that natural instinct and turned.
My heart dropped to the pit of my stomach as I watched a very familiar face making its way in our direction. When he passed our table, I felt a sense of relief wash over me. But it lasted only for a moment. I set my napkin on the table and looked up at my daughter.
“Mom, are you okay? You look like you just saw a ghost.”
“I’m fine, Sashaberry. I’m not feeling so well. I don’t know if it was something I ate or what. Come on, I’m ready to leave.”
“Just like that, Mom? What about dessert? We always have dessert.”
“Not tonight, Sasha. Come on, let’s leave.”
“But Mom, you haven’t even paid your bill, yet. Can we at least order it to go?” she pleaded.
“Sure,” I replied. “Look, I’m really not feeling well. Baby, let’s just pay it at the bar and order your dessert from there.”
“Okay, Mom,” she stated. “But you sure are acting strange.”
We left our table and headed to the bar. I paid for our food after ordering the dessert. It seemed as if that dessert couldn’t get there soon enough. It arrived ten minutes later, and I was relieved we could finally leave.
“Come on, baby, let’s go. I just need to lie down for a while. I’m sure once we’re home and I get some rest, I’ll feel better.”
“I hope so,” Sasha replied. “What came over you anyway?”
“Oh, nothing, baby. I think just the taking you back and forth to school and the altered schedule is taking its toll on my body.”
“Do you want me to drive home?” Sasha had had her license for six months. I quite often allowed her to drive for small errands in our community or drive to her friends’ homes. But I wasn’t about to let her drive that far at night in my baby. It didn’t matter if I would be sitting in the passenger seat.
We had discussed getting her a little vehicle, because I wasn’t comfortable with allowing her to drive my baby. I had recently purchased that Mustang as a rare gift for myself. But I knew with all the hard work I put in, I deserved something special. So on my thirty-third birthday, I had gone out and paid cash for her. No car notes, no strings attached.
“Uh-uh I’ll be just fine, baby. I can make the drive, come on.”
I headed towards the door as we passed the restrooms, and my heart stopped once again. “Naomi.” My heart plummeted to the floor. That smooth smile carved that honey-colored face into a familiar grin. And those smoke-grey eyes shined brightly at me. I had been looking at that smile and those grey eyes for the last sixteen years. And now they were back in the flesh to haunt me.
“How’ve you been?” Jaime asked.
Purchase Links:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XRQMHXM
bit.ly/AWD_A
AT: You know I love it!! How can readers connect with you?
CR: a. WEB: www.chelleramsey.com
b. EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com
c. FACEBOOK: ChelleWrites
d. TWITTER: @UndeniablyChell
e. PINTEREST: ChellesBooks
f. INSTAGRAM: UndeniablyChelle
AT: Any final words?
CR: Believe in yourself, have faith in God, and live your dreams out loud and on purpose!
AT: Amen!
Wednesday, December 13, 2017
#WriterWednesday with Author Racquel Brown Gaston
Today I'm interviewing Author Racquel Brown Gaston! Read on!
AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
RBG: I currently live in Accokeek, MD moving from New York City. I am from Falmouth, Trelawny, Jamaica, W.I. My town's claim to fame is Usain Bolt, Veronica Campbell and many other track and field Olympians who came from Trelawny.
AT: All right, now! What genre do you write?
RBG: I write crime suspense thriller and/or urban fiction
AT: Love me a good suspense thriller! Are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
RBG: I am a published author with one book-Deadly Instincts
AT: What inspires you to write?
RBG: Writing saved my life when suicide plagued my mind at 14. It was and is my escape from everyday reality. It is also knowing that my voice will shed light to someone whose life will then be transformed positively.
AT: That's beautiful! Name one book you wish you’d written.
RBG: The Alchemist
AT: Great choice! A favorite of many people. What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
RBG: Americana by Chimamanda Ngozi. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
AT: Who is your favorite author? Why?
RBG: Robert Ludlum because he is one of the masters of crime suspense thrillers and description.
AT: Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
RBG: Aquamarine. I am a water sign so I find aqua to be tranquil. The color is light and airy, playful and inviting, gives a warm feeling and very pretty.
AT: I love that color, too! What would your autobiography be called?
RBG: The Life Journey of Racquel Brown Gaston
AT: Nice! Do you believe in love at first sight?
RBG: Yes
AT: If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
RBG: 1. That my son will never fall prey to a criminal system, the victim of a crime, or the other end of a bullet fired by a police officer
2. God would allow the universe to bend to my will so I can use my talents to transform countless of lives, household and communities globally, especially in increasing social mobility for the marginalized.
3. That human beings could simply love each other and be introduced to a power unimaginable as God is love.
AT: Wonderful wishes! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
RBG: I am fall. The fashion. The cool weather. The slowing down of the pace. The beauty that arises, even in death as depicted in the fallen leaves. Their striking colors say I can smile when my world is about to get dark for longer, because it won't be long before I spring again, this time for longer days.
AT: Beautiful! Tea or coffee?
RBG: Tea.
AT: Tell us about your most recent/current project.
RBG: I am working with an A list screenwriter for the film adaptation of my novel, Deadly Instincts. I am also writing a memoir for another as a ghost writer. I remain busy rendering motivational speeches (e.g. from commencement speeches to addressing incoming college class and everything in between).
AT: Wow! How can readers connect with you?
RBG: website: www.racquelbrowngaston.com;
facebook: racquelbrowngastontheauthor;
Instagram: rbg.theauthor
Twitter: rbgaston1
AT: Any final words?
RBG: Do not get lost in the everyday distractions of life; they would have been successful in their job. Find the purpose for your existence and serve it. One more thing-thank you.
AT: You are more than welcome!!
Wednesday, December 6, 2017
#WriterWednesday with Author Wendy Jones
Today's #WriterWednesday interview is with Author Wendy Jones! Enjoy!!
AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
WJ: I live in Springfield, New Jersey. The Battle of Springfield, June 23, 1780, was the decisive battle during the American Revolutionary War that assured the eventual British defeat in 1783.
AT: Interesting! What genre do you write?
WJ: I write fiction and creative non-fiction, in book form and as essays. I am the only person I would inflict my poetry on.
AT: Lol, I see. Are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
WJ: My first book, An Extraordinary Life: Josephine E. Jones, a biography, was published in May by Ida Bell Publishing, LLC.
AT: Awesome! What inspires you to write?
WJ: I have been fortunate to come in contact with many intriguing people in my life. If I don’t write about them who will? Also, just as you did, Ms. Thompson, I quit a secure position to write. Writing is as fundamental to me as breathing. I came to the earth plane to write.
AT: I can totally relate. Name one book you wish you’d written.
WJ: The Blassingame Sisters, the novel I will finish in a few years, but wish I had already written.
AT: You got this! What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
WJ: The Third Reconstruction by Rev. William Barber. Rev. Barber, the initiator of Moral Mondays in North Carolina, tells a story of collaborative activism, powered by love, with fellow Americans of all beliefs, gender identities, and political persuasions. His writing spurs me to do the same.
AT: Sounds like a compelling read! Who is your favorite author? Why?
WJ: I can’t choose one. Here’s the list: Dostoyevsky, Tolstoy, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, Poe, de Maupassant, Hawthorne, Twain, Fitzgerald, Zora Neale Hurston, Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Walter Mosley, Denise Lewis Patrick, Oscar Hijuelos, P.D. James, Márquez, Gretna Wilkinson, Maya Angelou, Amy Tan, Chinua Achebe, Zadie Smith, Lisa See, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
All of these authors write three-dimensional characters or present ideas in ways that move me to tears, make me laugh, and enrich my brain.
AT: That's quite a list and we share some favorites. You definitely are a reader! Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
WJ: Purple. It is associated with royalty, mourning, and the sacred. The highs, the lows, and the divine in one color.
AT: Purple's a beautiful color. What would your autobiography be called?
WJ: I can’t decide between Take a Risk! and Don’t Make My Mistakes: Be Creative, Make Your Own!
AT: I like both! Do you believe in love at first sight?
WJ: No. I believe in “deep liking at first sight,” a feeling of comfort, a sense that I know this person and have met her/him before. That’s how I felt when I met my life partner 32 years ago.
AT: Hmm, never heard it put that way before. If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
WJ: 1. The ability to see my shortcomings and overcome them. (That really is one wish.)
2. The gift of seeing the joy in every day.
3. That I live to be 120 years old sound in mind, body, and spirit, so I can finish the work I came here to do.
AT: I absolutely love those wishes! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
WJ: Spring is the beginning of all things new and vibrant.
AT: Tea or coffee?
WJ: Tea. The varieties are endless: some calm, some energize, and some heal.
AT: True! Tell us about your most recent/current project.
WJ: An Extraordinary Life: Josephine E. Jones is the story of a South Carolina sharecropper’s daughter, born in 1920, who comes to New York City in 1946 to work as a cook in private homes and becomes not only a Harlem activist, but the first Black woman in management at a Fortune 500 company, then Standard Brands, now Kraft Heinz. She also, as a single parent, raised her daughter and laid the foundation for her to be educated in private schools and to graduate from Yale University and Columbia University. I am that daughter.
Praise for An Extraordinary Life: Josephine E. Jones:
A native of the South, a descendant of slaves and the daughter of sharecroppers, Mrs. Jones ventured north, to New York and Harlem, to find her chance. The tale of her tenacious advance, transforming what to others might seem to be insurmountable obstacles and burdens, into opportunities to shine---the stuff of alchemy, might in less able hands, seem apocryphal. But Wendy Jones, like her role-model-mother, keeps things real. The saga she spins out is so inspirational, because in relating the highly specific history of a highly individual figure, she has made her mother’s quest: to enhance her community, to enlighten her people, to educate and arm--with truth and an appreciation of beauty--her only child, into a universal story.
- Michael Henry Adams – author of Harlem, Lost and Found: An Architectural and Social History, 1765-1915 and currently working on the forthcoming Homo Harlem: A Chronicle of Lesbian and Gay Life in the African American Cultural Capital, 1915-1995.
My mother’s words are the heart center of this book about her life. Brief chapter introductions give historical context. Notes include supplementary information about incidents she describes. Thumbnail sketches identify important relatives in the story. And finally, the Appendix describes how she nurtured my education.
The excerpt is my mother speaking.
An Excerpt from An Extraordinary Life: Josephine E. Jones:
The first thing I remember was when my father went away in 1922. I remember watching and waiting for him to come home. He had gone away to work up in Buffalo, New York. It was a year when he was having a hard time with the farm. The boll weevils were eating up all the cotton, so he went up north. He started working at the headquarters of the Lackawanna Railroad Company. Pa laid crossties for the railroad, which started in New Jersey and ran all the way up through Lackawanna until it got to Buffalo.
The day he left, I went part of the way with him, as far as the mailbox. There he told me to go back. Pa had been gone a month or so before my family realized that I had stopped eating and playing. I just crawled into a shell.
When Mama took me to the doctor, he looked at me and asked where my father was. My mother told him that he’d gone north. The doctor told her that that’s why I wasn’t eating; I was emotionally sick. He told her the family would have to do things with me to get my mind off him. If she didn’t, she would lose me. I was grieving myself to death.
Mama showed me the fall colors of the leaves and a running brook, where I saw a fish. When she showed me these things, it helped me get over my grief. She also told me that my father had just gone to work and he would be back. I thought maybe he was dead. When I knew he would be back, I got over my grief.
In the meantime, we started getting letters from him. My mother would always read the letters to us.
It wasn’t Christmas yet, but I know it was cold because we had a fire when Pa came back. He brought a lot of balloons and had something different for each of us. He gave me what we used to call a glass doll, but I guess it was a china doll. It was beautiful. Naturally, it was white. We didn’t have black dolls then.
My sisters—especially my older sisters—kept telling me to get the doll so they could see it and play with it. They kept pushing and jumping around and kept me going back and getting it. This one wanted it and that one wanted it, until . . . it got broken that night!
Then they all said, “Oh, she doesn’t have a doll now.” I cried about it for three or four days. I got more dolls, but I didn’t get that doll back. I realized then that they always wanted what I had and not what they had. Pa didn’t do any more for me than he did for the rest of them, but he encouraged me. I saw how he did things, so I patterned my life after his.
When Pa left again, I crawled back into a shell. He was just home on vacation. I was three years old. That was 1923.
AT: Wow! I've got to read this! How can readers connect with you?
WJ: You can buy the book at Ida Bell Publishing, LLC’s website:
http://idabellpublishing.com
To find out about events and post comments, you can request inclusion on the email list (your email is not shared with anyone and you can unsubscribe at any time) email me at: Idabellpub@gmail.com
AT: Any final words?
WJ: It is so important to record the stories of our elders. Please record the life stories of your family members and friends. Have them professionally transcribed, make copies for your family and friends, then donate a copy to your local library. Later, if you want to shape these memories into a book, go ahead. But preservation is vital.
This is especially true for African Americans and our indigenous sisters and brothers. African American literacy was illegal during enslavement and our history was invisible even in the best American schools and universities until the late sixties. Indigenous history was written by European Americans until the late sixties. Extraordinary stories of ordinary people are treasures we can’t afford to lose.
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
#WriterWednesday with Author Maurice Gray
Today's interview is with the wonderful Author Maurice Gray!!
Let's see what he has to say!
AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
MG: New Castle, Delaware. Delaware is known as “The Home Of Tax-Free Shopping.”😊 If something here costs 0.99 cents, we’re getting a penny back. That messes me up when I travel out of state and have to pay tax on stuff.
AT: Ooooh, I'm so jealous! What genre do you write?
MG: Christian fiction
AT: One of my favorites! Are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
MG: I am the author of three books, To Whom Much Is Given, All Things Work Together and Like A Brother. I’m also in four anthologies, Blessed Assurance, The Soul Of A Man, Home Again: Stories Of Restored Relationships and The Soul Of A Man 2: Make Me Wanna Holler
AT: What inspires you to write?
MG: The question “What if- - -?” I could see a couple arguing off in the distance and wonder what the problem was. I start thinking “what if they’re fighting over X or Y?” Next thing you know, I have the makings of a story.
AT: Yes! Curiosity breeds creativity. Name one book you wish you’d written.
MG: This Present Darkness. Frank Peretti outdid himself with that one.
AT: The title alone sounds intriguing! What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
MG: The Returning by Rachelle Dekker. It was the final part of a trilogy, and I enjoyed it very much.
AT: You read the coolest-sounding books! Who is your favorite author? Why?
MG: So many to choose from 😊. Patricia Haley-Glass is one who stands out to me. She’s an excellent author, and when I was ready to publish my own work, she answered every question I had about independent publishing.
AT: So cool! Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
MG: Mocha Cherry. Mocha because that’s my skin tone and cherry because I’ve always loved the color red.
AT: Nice! What would your autobiography be called?
MG: I Love To Tell The Story
AT: Nice! Do you believe in love at first sight?
MG: Yes
AT: Awwww, If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
MG: Perfect health, a boatload of money and the mental/emotional capacity to make nothing but great decisions
AT: Smart wishes! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
MG: Fall. The weather is just as good as it is in spring, but there’s one thing fall has that spring does not- FOOTBALL! (go Eagles!)
AT: Lol, so I take it you're an Eagles fan, huh? Tea or coffee?
MG: Iced tea
AT: Yummy. Tell us about your most recent/current project.
MG:
Jeremiah McAllister lost his entire family before he turned eighteen, but was blessed with another one. As the oldest of more than a dozen young adults mentored by CC Dawson and her husband Thurman, Jeremiah takes his role as oldest brother within their chosen family seriously. To his siblings, he is confidante, emergency contact, babysitter and family ATM; whatever they need, he provides, no questions asked. However, some among them push his largesse to its limits.
Jenisse Anderson uses Jeremiah as a surrogate man on her arm for social events when she’s between boyfriends and as her personal 911 (she calls him to help her deal with anything she deems an emergency). Despite Jeremiah’s consistently being there for her, she will neither reciprocate nor discuss his feelings for her, or even deal with the issues of her past.
Erik Dawson (CC and Thurman’s only biological child) is currently estranged from his parents, and uses Jeremiah as a go-between so he knows they’re okay and vice-versa. Jeremiah’s repeated pleas for Erik to go to his parents and reconcile fall on deaf ears. Between Jenisse and Erik and the constant requests from the others, Jeremiah is pulled in too many different directions all at once.
As he reaches his breaking point, Jeremiah finds himself at a crossroads in his life. How can he break out of an emotional prison he didn’t even realize he was in until recently? Can he face his own history in order to embrace a better future?
AT: Sounds so good! How can readers connect with you (share website and any social media links)
MG: Website: www.writethevision.biz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maurice.m.gray
Twitter: https://twitter.com/@MauriceMGrayJr
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/837374.Maurice_M_Gray_Jr_
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/
AT: Any final words?
MG: Thanks for having me!
AT: Most welcome!
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
#WriterWednesday with Author DINA
Today's #WriterWednesday interview is with Author DINA. Let's learn all about her!!
AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
D: I live in Tampa, Florida; I was born and raised in Miami.
AT: What genre do you write?
D: Primarily, I write Christian/Inspirational Crime Fiction; however, I’ve written an autobiography and a book on Organizing.
AT: Wow, talk about diverse! Are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
My books are published under Ink Trails Publishing. So far, I’ve published five books:
D:
1. Rewriting My Story (Bitter Root Series)
2. The Rage Within (Bitter Root Series)
3. Behind the Mask (Bitter Root Series)
4. Lost and Found
5. Out of Order: A Practical Guide to Organization
AT: I've head the pleasure of reading some of your work! What inspires you to write?
D: Normally, I’d say “everything,” but as of late, the memory of my mother has encouraged me. She was such a great supporter of my work. When she passed away earlier this year, there was a piece of me that went with her. I’d lost my inspiration. But now, the memories of her smile whenever I released a new book push me to continue in my path as a writer.
AT: That's beautiful! Name one book you wish you’d written.
D: Anything by Brenda Jackson.
AT: Good choice. After all, she is the queen. What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
D: The last book I read was Developing the Leader Within You by John C. Maxwell. Everyone should read this book at least twice!
AT: Will definitely check it out! Who is your favorite author? Why?
D: It is hard to narrow this list down to one, so I’ll be a little vain and state that my favorite author is DINA! I think my stories are riveting, inspiring, and take my readers on a ride that is sure to have them wanting more.
AT: Nothing wrong with loving your own work! Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
D: I’d be “flame-of-burnt-brandy” which was actually a color in 1821. It’s a mixture of lavender grey, pale yellow and dark lilac. The complexity of this color beautifully reflects my personality – a little dark, a little bright, and a whole lot of fun!
AT: Wow, so cool! What would your autobiography be called?
D: Although I’ve already written my autobiography, if I were to write a part two, it’s be titled What Just Happened!
AT: Nice! Do you believe in love at first sight?
D: No, but I sure do believe in lust at first sight.
AT: Lol, if a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
D: 1. To be on the NY Time Best Seller’s list 2. Marry the one I love
3. To be prosperous
AT: Nice wishes! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
D: I’m spring. I consider this season to be the neutral one – neither hot nor cold. It also has a great deal of personality as it is filled with bright colors and life.
AT: I'm a fan of spring, too! Tea or coffee?
D: Coffee
AT: Tell us about your most recent/current project.
D: Currently, I am writing what I believe will be the final book in the Bitter Root Series titled Londyn’s Fall: The Mask. Betrayal. Redemption. It’s a continuation of The Rage Within and Behind the Mask. Here’s snippet from Behind the Mask:
“Excuse me, Miss. You’ve dropped your handkerchief.” Londyn felt a tap on her left shoulder as the stranger with the smooth Texas drawl tried to get her attention. “Ma’am, here you go,” he continued, with a smirk plastered on his face.
He’s handsome, she thought. He stood out with this dark blue jean pants, a white collared shirt, designer boots, and a black jacket. But what made him stand out most was his Stetson hat. This is a formal event!
“Thank you, sir,” she politely responded.
He then tilted his hat as a sign of acknowledgment of her genteel response. As she turned to leave, he offered her his hand. “I’m Keith Bentley. And you are?”
His name is just as appealing as his looks. “I’m Londyn, daughter of the bride,” she giggled.
“Well, congratulations. Your mother looks happy and lovely, but not as lovely as you.”
There was something about the way he said “you” that sounded eerily familiar, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. It didn’t matter. Londyn had no desire to get involved with anyone. Four years ago, she was brutally raped multiple times by the madman rightfully named Crazy Bill. She was eventually rescued, only to be told that she was pregnant and had to be treated for Chlamydia. Although she lost the baby, just the mere thought of once having the seed of that barbaric creature inside of her gave her chills. She wasn’t an advocate for abortions, but she had to admit she was happy that it didn’t survive. The result of this tragic period of her life caused her to go into a deep depression, but accidentally murdering her father sent her over the deep end. She didn’t mean to shoot him; the bullet had been reserved for the Angelica, her half-sister. But her father jumped in front of her, saving her life. Thankfully, her mother sent her to a secluded psychiatric oasis that helped her with the healing process. Also, with the love and support of her family, she’s gotten herself together.
Now, four years later, she owned her own fashion line, which was doing quite well. She’d also started a nonprofit organization providing support to survivors of sexual crimes. With her life in order, Londyn was a bit more open-minded about relationships general, but perhaps love was meant for everyone else – not her. Her brother, DJ, seemed to be happy with his wife of two years, Aleena. Even her mother had found love again. Although Nate was twenty-plus years younger than her mother, it was obvious that he worshiped the ground she walked on. Londyn just wished her brother could be supportive. His refusal to walk his mother down the aisle or sit with the family was proof of his unwillingness to support this union. Oh, well… that’s his problem. If her mother was happy, then so was she. Londyn believed that it was time her mother experienced true happiness.
“Hello, Earth to Londyn.”
Londyn’s face grew warm as she realized that Keith was asking her a question. “I’m sorry, what were you saying?”
He removed his hat and looked at her intently. “I asked if you’d do me the honor of dancing with me.”
My Lord, he looks good with or without the hat. But without the hat, she noticed his darting eyes. They were beautiful, intense, and…familiar.
“Do I know you from somewhere?” The question came out before she knew it.
He lifted his eyebrows clearly indicating his surprise by her forwardness. “I don’t believe so, darling. I don’t think I could ever forget such a beautiful face, if we had met before.”
Londyn turned crimson red as a result of the compliment. It was obvious to her and this stranger that she was attracted to him and enjoyed the compliments he willingly offered. Instead of retreating like she had done in the past, she decided to do the one thing she wanted to do with him – dance. “Mr...?”
“Keith. Call me Keith.”
“Keith, it would be an honor to dance with you.”
With a slower drawl, he replied, “Ma’am, the honor is all mine.”
AT: How can readers connect with you?
D: Readers are welcomed to visit my website, www.dinawrites.com or follow me in instagram, twitter, and facebook at worksbydina.
AT: Any final words?
D: My purpose in life is to uplift, inspire, and empower everyone I come in contact with. Whether it’s via my books, workshops, personal conversations, etcetera, I hope that I will make a positive impact in the lives of others. I challenge you to do the same.
AT: I love it!!
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
#WriterWednesday with Author Michelle Mitchell
For today's #WriterWednesday interview, let's get to know Author Michelle Mitchell!!
AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
MM: I’m from Kennesaw, Georgia, but I live in Marietta. One of the things Marietta is known for is the “Original Big Chicken”. The KFC still has the big, red chicken on top of its building. Kennesaw is probably best known for Kennestone Mountain and now Kennesaw State University.
AT: Okay, cool! What genre do you write?
MM: Contemporary fiction. I’m interested in writing mystery as well. I hope to dabble in that soon.
AT: I love a good mystery! Are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
MM: I currently have 3 books total. Two of those published books are anthologies that I contributed to alongside some amazing authors, you being one of them :). Those anthologies are The Ex Chronicles and Single Mama Dating Drama, both were released by Brown Girls Books. Then I have my debut novel, Truth Is… which I self-published. I’m currently working on my second novel and a Christmas novella.
CLICK HERE to purchase Truth Is
AT: Yes, I so enjoyed working on the Ex Chronicles with you and the other ladies who contributed to it! What inspires you to write?
MM: I get inspired from real life situations that I hear on the news, and especially the people that call into the radio stations. There’s always a story line there. I’ve always had an over-the-top imagination as well, so things come to me based on phrases I hear in conversation or just anything that comes to mind.
AT: Sounds familiar, lol. Name one book you wish you’d written.
MM: That’s a good question. The first thing that came to mind was characters more so than the story. I loved the stories, but it was those characters that really brought it to life and made me LOVE IT. I would love to have crafted Curtis Black (Curtis Black Series - Kimberla Lawson Roby), Jessie Belle (Jezebel – Jacquelin Thomas), or Winter (Coldest Winter Ever – Sistah Souljah). Those characters were so real, and you knew those people…they were memorable.
AT: Yes, "real" characters make for an excellent read! What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
MM: All that Glitters by Sherron Elise and it was very good. She brought the reader into the story. I could visualize every scene and every character. Each character was unique and had a voice.
AT: Who is your favorite author? Why?
MM: Kimberla Lawson Roby because the stories stay with you and while I haven’t gotten to meet her personally, to see the love her fans have for her and the way she spreads that love back—I admire her.
AT: Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
MM: Peach Lemon Drop Martini. I’m a sweet Georgia Peach, and like I’m a martini—I can be super chill and I can make you giggle.
AT: Man, that color sounds delicious! I mean, pretty, lol. What would your autobiography be called?
MM: Laughing through the Fall
AT: Love it! Do you believe in love at first sight?
MM: I think it’s possible. I fall in love with every brownie that I see at first sight, and first bite.
AT: Lol!!! If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
MM: (1) A cure for cancer. I’ve lost family and friends to it, and the number of cases with friends/family showing signs increases. (2) Flights are always less than $100 roundtrip. I want to travel more. (3) To have colleges be free. I hate paying on this loan. They need to implement that opportunity everywhere ASAP.
AT: Wonderful wishes! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
MM: I’m a March baby, so I enjoy heading into spring and seeing the flowers bloom.
AT: Nice! Tea or coffee?
MM: Coffee, but the way I fix it its chocolate milk. But I do like a chai tea latte.
AT: Yum! How can readers connect with you (share website and any social media links)
MM:
a. Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorMichelleMitchell
b. Instagram: @AuthorMichelleMitchell
c. Twitter: @expbutterflies
d. Website: www.authormichellemitchell.com
e. Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/AuthorMichelleMitchell
AT: Any final words?
MM: Thank you and happy reading to everyone!
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