#MondayMotivation - #Onwriting

“Our writing can transform us.” 
― Sandra Marinella

Pop-up Bookstore #kickstarter

HELP MAKE A POP-UP BOOKSTORE!

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We've been selling books at comic cons, art festivals, and outdoor markets since 2010. It's time to embrace a new kind of bookstore, so we're building one.

Crimson Melodies Pub. is a small press that features speculative fiction with a dark or thrilling twist. Most of our heroes are flawed, and all of them will capture your attention. We've been publishing more than a book a year since 2009, ranging from dark urban fantasy to romantic suspense to historical fantasy with magical elements.

Kickstarter is a crowdfunding platform tailored for all sorts of creative projects. Creators offer rewards as a way to form a community and gather support for the project that they're working on. Our Kickstarter is about creating a pop-up bookstore. We're offering rewards as simple as a digital download of a short-story collection from our authors, to custom created artwork of the main characters in two of our published series. There's also bookmarks, stickers, and our entire catalog of books up for grabs.

Come find out how to get your next favorite summer read, or pick up a new favorite bookmark and stickers to decorate your tablet, phone, or e-reader. Plus you get to help make our new pop-up bookstore really come to life.

Crimson Melodies Publishing - an independent small press for speculative fiction. We sell our books both digitally and in print, and one of the ways we reach readers is by exhibiting at conventions like comic con.

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4-Author #BookBlast

Write Now Literary is pleased to be coordinating a blog tour for  authors Siera London, Tonya Barbee, Donneil Jackson and Sierra Kay. This book blast tour will run April 20, 2018. Book your own tour here.

                                      Meet Donneil D. Jackson

Donneil D. Jackson is a writer by nature and a Jersey girl by heart. Growing up a sheltered child, she used writing as an escape from her everyday life. She discovered that with writing she could be someone else, do things Donneil would never do and entertain others. Donneil has been writing for as long as she can remember, ever since her mother placed a pencil in her hand. The girl has a niche for painting an elaborate scene while telling a descriptive tale. One day she began writing Chante’s Song marking the beginning of her professional writing career. Learn more at: http://www.donneildjackson.com

                                                    




About the Book

As one of the hottest radio personalities, Kayla, the Gossip Queen, has the fast-paced, glamorous life that many dream of. But one thing eludes her. Love. Growing up in a family where her father was nothing more than a ghost, Kayla sets her sights on finding true love and creating the perfect family of husband, wife, home, and children--even if she has to slip up and make a ton of mistakes along the way. When she meets Shawn Dewitt at a club, their attraction is immediate. Despite the less than perfect beginnings, such as dealing with Shawn’s deranged ex-girlfriend, Kayla finds herself falling hard and fast. All Kayla sees is Shawn's charm, great looks and mind-blowing sex. She braces herself for the highs of love and the lows of perpetual infidelity and lies. After being with a man who constantly makes her question her role in his life and her vision of the perfect family, Kayla has to ask herself, "Am I right to fight for this love, or am I being foolish?" Genre: Contemporary Women's Fiction Amazon

                                                                 


Meet Siera London

Siera London, a former naval officer, is a #1 Amazon Bestselling Author of contemporary romance and romantic suspense. A native Floridian, her love of coastal towns and bustling cities shines through in her sassy and sexy storytelling. Currently, she resides in southern California with her husband and a color patch tabby named Frie. Learn more at: http://www.sieralondon.com

                                                 
                                       

About the Book

Recently divorced, Sarah Jones no longer looks forward to the cupid and candy holiday. With her shattered heart and designer swimsuit in tow, she plans a little vacation to Adventure Cove Resort and Spa. It’s just the respite she needs from inquiring minds. Quiet and brooding, Deputy Lance Stevens wants to be left alone with the pain of his past mistakes, but his family has other ideas. This contrived vacation is another family intervention he plans to squash, that is until Sarah zips into his life. What’s meant to be Sarah’s escape turns into a steamy attraction to a man who’s too young, and too determined to get what he wants-her. Lance is forbidden in more ways than one and Sarah is harboring a secret that could destroy more than their budding romance. What happens when Ms. Jones realizes there’s more than a Valentine’s Day fling going on? Genre: Contemporary Romance Amazon

                                                       

                             
Meet Sierra Kay

Sierra Kay has an M.A. in Writing from DePaul University, won a Nuyorican Poets Cafe Short Story Slam, participated in comedy fests as a member of the writing teams for Spankx and N20 Comedy. She also writes poetry and suspense novels. Obviously, she’ll try anything at least once. Her two novels are available online. Learn more at: sierrakay.com.

                                                           







About the Book

The Grim Reaper has visited Echo Charles so often he might as well have his mail forwarded to her address. Echo never quite recovered from the loss of her parents to a tragic accident on her twenty-first birthday. Now fourteen years later, she mourns their death of her career, her social life, and if the reaper has his way, the death of her best friend’s lover. The only ray of light in all this darkness is Dr. Brandon Hall, who has had run-ins with the reaper himself—especially when his ex-wife put a choke hold on his bank account along with his belief in love. Dr. Daniel Ellington’s touch provided the electricity that pumped Telia Arthur’s heart, and a life without his smile was unthinkable. However, an unfortunate accident spared the lives of their children and left his hanging in the balance. Now Telia must deal with a challenge only a few people know about, in addition to Dan’s mother who has descended on Telia intent on securing control of Daniel’s wealth as well as his heirs, all while her son is fighting for his life. Telia and Echo began a friendship in elementary school that has blossomed into sisterhood. But their emotions are being dragged over concrete. Will love conquer all or become another victim of the reaper? Genre: Suspense Amazon

                                                                 




Meet Tonya

Tonya Barbee, Founder of I am Still a Rose, LLC (IASAR), has a passion to help those who want to be helped. It took her awhile to realize that she had to make a change in her life in order to get the change she was looking for. After betrayal, emotional abuse, and other turmoil, she had to self-reflect, learn to forgive, and move beyond her pain. Her commitment is to help inspire and empower those that are ready to start a new chapter and to stop those vicious cycles. IASAR will offer events, conferences, plays, and inspirational products that empower women to get past their circumstances to get to their triumphs. Tonya is an inspirational speaker who uses her experiences to uplift women who have had similar circumstances and are ready for resolution. She’s spiritual, energized, funny, and eager to help encourage others to never, ever give up. Tonya never dreamed of writing books but she’s always enjoyed telling stories and sharing profound testimonies. Her listeners inspired her to write and the rest is history. The Little Girl Inside is her first project, followed by a short story, a collaborative project with ten amazing authors who bared their souls through heart wrenching testimonies. Tonya’s short story is titled, Prayer Works, in Sharing Our Prayers, which is followed by her latest (soon to be released), I Am Still A Rose, a sequel to the Little Girl Inside. She's working on several other exciting projects so stay tuned. Tonya resides in Maryland and enjoys spending time with her incredible four children and seven grandchildren that have stolen her heart. Learn more at: http://www.tonyabarbee.com

                                                     


About the Book

It's love (or the misconception of such). It's betrayal. It's triumph! It is all three wrapped into one self reflecting book written by an author whose relationship struggles helped shape and define her as the self sufficient woman she is today. If you have endured the difficult dynamics of a relationship and often wondered why the cycle kept repeating then this book is the perfect guide to help you evaluate yourself internally before giving your heart externally. You will find the much desired answers to your "who's," "what's," "when's" why's," and "how's" of your past relationship issues. Aren't you exhausted from the same ole same ole? It is time to STOP, reflect and make changes that will help you get it right! As you read this book, you will experience the author’s journey as she continuously seeks the fairy tale relationship only to discover the fairy tale relationship never comes. Her pain will become yours as you begin to relate with the various bad relationships documented. However, her victory will become yours as you will learn how to effectively build upon and maintain a healthy and fulfilling relationship. You will quickly become empowered and inspired to start afresh and live your life to the very fullest. Genre: Nonfiction, Inspirational Amazon

#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. 

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!

One Season #Book Blitz

Contemporary Fiction

Date Published:  October 2017

Publisher: White Tiger Media

Angelo Astone has just been recruited by the Tassie Devils to play in the National Australian Rules Competition. The 18-year-old from country Victoria is about to fulfil his life’s dream of playing professional Aussie Rules, however, trouble awaits in unforeseen ways.

Todd Thomson, the club captain and one of the best players in the competition, has a drug problem and is grooming young players to sell for him. Off the field, the club is $20 million in debt and a boardroom crisis is looming as opposing powers struggle to get their way. Two of the board members, Wang Li and Rahul Patel, from China and India respectively, not only want to buy the club outright but also want to host a NARC match in their home country and will do anything to get that opportunity.

One Season depicts one topsy-turvy ride of a professional sporting club who think the only boundaries that exist are the ones marking the oval.

About the Author

#WriterWednesday with Author Randy Weir

Today my #WriterWednesday interview is with Author Randy Weir. Enjoy!!

AT: Where do you live? What’s your town’s claim to fame?
RW: I live in Aurora Colorado, a suburb of Denver. Over 300 days a year of sunshine and the gateway to the Rockies.

AT: Nice! What genre do you write?
RW: Current series is Mystery/Detective stories. I’ve also written three Thrillers that were never published.

AT: Oh, wow! You've got to get those books out there! I love Thrillers! Are you a published author or aspiring to be published? If published, how many books are out there with your name on them?
RW: I am self-published, with 6 so far, all the Jarvis Mann Detective Series under the name R Weir

AT: Sounds good! What inspires you to write?
RW: Mostly the words are in my head, waiting to be written. There are times when the thoughts are so vivid I have to get them down, to release them from my brain.

AT: I truly understand how that feels. Name one book you wish you’d written.
RW: Any of Ian Fleming's James Bond books. They are all great and he is a character that seems like will live forever.

AT: Good choice! What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it?
RW: The Martian, by Andy Weir. No relation. It was great and the movie with Matt Damon was one of the better movie book adaptions.

AT: Are you sure there's no relation? Maybe you could claim his as a cousin? LOL. Who is your favorite author? Why?
RW: Robert B. Parker. He always had an easy flow to his books, with humor, danger and excitement.

AT: Sounds like good reading to me! Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
RW: Rocky Mountain Orange Sunset

AT: Sounds beautiful! What would your autobiography be called?
RW: Are you really Jarvis Mann? The peaceful life of R Weir

AT: Love it! Do you believe in love at first sight?
RW: I do, as it was love at first sight when I first saw my daughter after she was born.

AT: Awwww. If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes)
RW: Health for everyone in my family, peace and happiness in the world, and the guarantee of safe passage as I rode my motorcycle across the USA.

AT: Nice! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why.
RW: Spring, when everything is new, fresh and full of life.

AT: Tea or coffee?
RW: Neither. I dislike both equally.

AT: Not a fan of caffeine, eh? Tell us about your most recent/current project.
RW: The latest book released June 24th is titled “The Case of the Invisible Souls”. 

Here is a blurb from it:

With Christmas a few weeks away and happy these last few months had been quiet, Jarvis Mann decides to take on an interesting case. A homeless veteran knocks on his door with a story of how several of his homeless companions have been bribed and taxied away never to return. Taking pause to the man’s story at first, Jarvis digs deeper learning of plans to clear out the homeless. When the man is attacked, and seriously injured, Jarvis goes undercover, learning more about life on the streets than he ever knew, becoming one of the Invisible Souls in search of an answer.

Purchase link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071SJPFTZ

I’m currently a third of the way through the next Jarvis Mann Detective novel titled “The Front Range Butcher”. Jarvis tries to track down a brutal serial killer who has resurfaced 25 years later.

AT: Both sound so good! How can readers connect with you?
RW: www.rweir.net
https://www.facebook.com/randy.weir.524
https://www.facebook.com/JarvisMannPI
https://twitter.com/RWeir720
https://www.amazon.com/R-Weir/e/B00JH2Y5US


AT: Any final words?
RW: Thanks to all the readers out there that support indie authors. The greatest gift you can give us is after reading, placing an honest review of the book on Amazon, Goodreads and wherever else it is sold. Nothing makes an author’s day more than reading a review. I enjoy every single one, including the bad ones, so long as they are written constructively. And be sure to reach out to authors. They love to hear from readers, either via email or social media.

AT: I agree!

Bow Down and What It Do #Book Spotlight

This is one of my stops during the three day spotlight tour for Bow Down & What It Do by Natalya LaBauve. This virtual book tour is organized by Write Now Literary Book Tours. This tour runs November 8-10, 2017 Follow the tour here.  Book your own tour here WNL

Genre: Young Adult

Book Titles: What It Do & Bow Down

About The Author

Natalya LaBauve was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised in Oakland. She studied at Ohio State University, UC Berkeley Extension, and Laney Community College’s theater program.

LaBauve spent twenty-eight years working for the US Attorney’s office. She has resigned from her work in the federal government to pursue her dream of becoming an author. LaBauve has written five novels about good girls, bad boys, and the love they share.

LaBauve lives in the Bay Area with her two children. She’s hard at work on her next book!

What It Do! For most seventeen year olds, graduating from high school is something to look forward to. But not for Victoria Johnson, who has just learned, two days before graduation, that she has been living a privileged and sheltered life in the gated community of Laketon, with 'adopted' parents. "What It Do", is the story about what life does to a young girl of class and prestige, when her biological mother arrives and wants to spend time with her. The weekend after graduation, Victoria finds herself being driven from the happy world of two story homes with Mercedes Benzes parked out front; to the mean streets of Oakland, where being naive and simple-minded, are just not allowed. With the help of a street wise younger brother; a strong willed little sister, and the admiration of a handsome young street thug, Victoria learns very quickly - What it do!

ISBN-10: 1438915691

ISBN-13: 978-1438915692

Amazon Buy Link: http://a.co/3gbvVRS



EXCERPT:

…When we finally arrived at the concert, I walked in with Ronald and his friends, Pete and Vic.  Rhonda was behind us with Wayne and since I heard music coming from inside the coliseum’s arena, I figured we must have been missing one of the acts.  People were walking around the outer part of the coliseum’s corridor, talking about the act that was on before.  I punched Ronald in the shoulder and said, “see, we missed one of the acts because of you.”

Ronald jumped back.  “Be cool girl.  Don’t be hitting on me!  It ain’t my fault.”

Then from the back of us, Rhonda and Wayne yelled, “yes it is!”

“Just keep walking.”  Ronald directed.  “Let’s find our seats.” 




As we continued walking, suddenly, a crowd started stampeding straight toward us.  Quickly!  I didn’t know what to do.  My heart began pounding.  My neck went stiff.  My body tightened up.  I guess I just panicked.  I didn’t know what was going on.  For some reason I couldn’t move.  I just froze in place.  I heard someone yell, “they fighting!”

My mind quickly saw Faye’s face.  I thought about what Faye said, then I thought, oh no, I’m supposed to be running!

Still unable to move an inch, I looked all around for Ronald or Rhonda.  I must have gone into shock.  Oh my God, where are they?  I didn’t even see Vic or Pete.  Not even Wayne.  But one thing I did see and it was coming right for me, the guys that were fighting. 

I closed my eyes, clinched my fist tightly together and held them as close to my cheeks as I could.  Right when I knew I was about to be run over by the fight, I was grabbed by the arm and firmly placed up against the wall.  Because of the strong snatch, I assumed it was Ronald.  Oh thank God, Ronald.  

I grabbed hold of his arm as tight as I could and with my eyes still closed I started saying my prayers.  “Our father, which art in heaven...”

The heavy voiced asked, “you alright?”

I quickly cut off my prayer.  That didn’t sound like Ronald’s voice.  I slowly opened my eyes to see who it was that I had grabbed on to so tightly.  When I did, I couldn’t believe my eyes.  It was that guy.  That, that, that guy!  For a moment I forgot what was going on around me.  I quickly thought back to the first time I had seen him before.  It was the afternoon after I had first arrived in Oakville.  

I never brought the subject up to Rhonda or Ronald, but every time he would pass by the house, I wished I could have gotten up enough courage to speak to him.  He would stare, even speak, and I’d just freak out.  I’d go run into the house or something, play like I didn’t see him. Rhonda would come chasing behind me, “why you running girl?  He likes you.  You better get with that!”

Just then I heard the smooth midnight voice again, “Hellooooo.  You alright?”

His name was Terrance, I did know that much.  His voice snapped me back into the reality that I was still at the concert.  I hadn’t realized that I had lost all consciousness, I turned and looked at him.  We were standing way too close together.

He searched my eyes.  “Are you okay?”

“I…I…I lost my sister and brother.”  My stomach was nervous.

Still holding my arm, but a lot gentler now, Terrance began looking around the crowd as if he were trying to find them with me. 

He asked, “Ronnie’s your brother right?”

I took a deep breath, exhaled, and then smiled, “yes.” 

Then he appeared to give me a mischievous smile, “I don’t see him.”  He let my arm go.  “But if you want me to, I’ll walk you to your seat.”

An instant hot flash rushed through my body.  What should I say?  But before I could really think it out, my mouth opened.  “That’ll be nice, thanks.”  My sandy brown cheeks turned beet red.

I just wanted to die.  I could not believe I was walking with, as well as talking to, that guy Terrance.  As we continued walking, security passed by with about five young guys that they were escorting out of the concert.

Terrance pulled me close, “be careful.”

 The guys were putting up a fight with the security guards now.

“What happened,” I asked, thinking Terrance might know

Bow Down!   Victoria thought her wedding day would be the happiest moment in her life, but strange coincidences and enigmatic guests hint at a mystery that will reveal distressing secrets about her new marriage and the man she’s given her heart to.

It took some smooth talking, but Victoria’s parents have finally accepted Terrance Seals as their son-in-law. Their summer wedding is beautiful, but Victoria begins to believe that something isn’t quite right. It would be one thing if the only problem were Edward Bordeaux, Victoria’s old beau. Edward’s mere presence might cause Victoria’s whole body to heat up, but she knows she can handle him—even after he coughs loudly when the minister asks if anyone objects to the marriage. The real problem is a strange woman with some connection to Terrance.

When Victoria can’t get answers from her new husband, she turns to her girlfriends—her best friend, Jana; new girl Meagan; and self-professed psychic Jennifer. With their support and encouragement, Victoria starts trying to get to the bottom of Terrance’s strange behavior. With the help of prayers, miraculous coincidences, and even psychic visions, Victoria discovers something unexpected about her husband and their shared future that will change everything.

Coming soon to Amazon


EXCERPT:

…Jana interrupted them. “So, Vicki, check this out—I got a plan. So, my mom, right, knows this lady. This lady can tell fortunes and put hexes on people and stuff like that. I got her name and number!”
“What! Jana, I’m not doing anything like that. What, a hex on Terrance?”
“Noooo!”
Meagan chimed in. “I told you that’s totally crazy, Jana.”
“You guys, listen,” Jana said. “Put a hex on the girl! You know, the one who came into your star-studded wedding!”
Victoria laughed. “Jana, no—you are crazy!”
“What?”
Meagan went into her valley-girl mode. “Isn’t that, like, totally against the law anyway?”
Both Victoria and Jana asked, “What?”
“Like, messing with the flow of the universe or something like that?”
Jana walked over and placed her arm around Meagan’s neck. “Let’s just consider it like we’re making a coincidence happen.”
“Not!” Victoria said. “We are not doing that, Jana. Are you crazy?”
“What?”
Meagan squinted her right eye and said, “Hmm, now, let’s see. While I’m definitely not into the voodoo thing, I wouldn’t mind seeing if this lady could tell the future thingy.”
Victoria turned to Meagan. “What? Now you?”
“I mean, aren’t you a little curious to see who this girl is?”
“Yeah, but I can ask Terrance! As simple as that, don’t you think?”
Meagan placed her hand on her hip. “And you think he’s going to tell you? So let me get this right: you think Mr. Street Guy is going to tell you the truth?”
“Yes, ‘Daddy,’ I do!”
Just then, Victoria’s father entered the garage and caught the girls off guard. “You do what?”
They all jumped.
Victoria stuttered, “Oh, D-d-d-daddy! I didn’t know you were standing there.”
Jana spoke up quickly. “Mr. J., you scared us!”
Meagan was quick and to the point. “Hi.”
Victoria’s father looked at each of the girls. “Let me know when you girls are done in here. I need to finish.”
Jana wanted to get out. “Oh, we’re all done.”
But Victoria could tell her father was still being stubborn. He wanted her out of the way so he could finish getting rid of her stuff. “No, not yet.” Victoria’s voice was stern. “In a minute, we’ll be finished.” She and her father stared at each other. He turned and walked back into the house. When he was out of sight, Victoria stared into the distance and asked, “So, Jana, how do we get in touch with this psychic?”
Meagan was shocked. “Victoria, are you serious?”
“Not about the casting spells part, but yeah, I want to know who this girl is.”
Meagan placed strings of her hair behind her ears. “But I thought you said you would just ask him.”
“You said yourself he won’t tell me.”
“I know but…I guess. Oh, no, I don’t know what I think.” Meagan turned to Jana. “Jana, do something! Talk some sense into her.”
Jana stepped near Victoria to whisper, “So, Vicki, only thing.” Jana looked around to make sure Victoria’s dad was not in earshot. “We need to kinda go and find this lady. I have her address but not the telephone number, and I cannot ask my mom for the number.”
“Yeah, okay, so?”
           “So she lives in the Ville.”

Website: http://www.natalyalabauve.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalya.labauve

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NatalyaLaBauve

Tour hosted by Write Now Literary www.wnlbooktours.com

#WriterWednesday with Author Venita Alderman Sadler

Today's author interview is with the lovely Venita Alderman Sadler. Scroll down and get the scoop!!

AT: Where do you live? 

VAS: Wake Forest, NC…. Originally from New Brunswick/Somerset, NJ

AT: Okay, what genre do you write? 

VAS: A Family of Secrets is Fiction: Drama and Mystery 

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? 

VAS: I’m published. I have one full length novel, A Family of Secrets. 3 journals; A Bitter to Better Journey, A Pieces to Peace Journey and From Gloom to Gleeful Journey. I’m in 3 anthologies Daddy’s Girl in Turning Trials into Triumphs, Sister Grinch in All I Want for Christmas and Online Secrets in The Ex-Chronicles. 

AT: Awesome! What inspires you to write? 

VAS: I’m inspired by my family and friends. Music and poetry inspires me. I’ll throw in nature also, the flowers, trees and looking at the clouds. 

AT: Same for me! Name one book you wish you’d written. 

VAS: The first thing that came to mind was the dictionary. If only I knew every word in there.

AT: I like the way you think! What was the last book you read? Did you enjoy it? 

VAS: Quagmire from Brian W Smith; it was my book club's June pick. Yes, I enjoyed the book. 

AT: Oh, I love his work! Who is your favorite author? Why? 

VAS: I have a few favorite authors. One of them is Jacquelin Thomas. I love the way her characters and the story line mesh together. Her latest book, Legacy, is a historical fiction book and when you read about the characters and the timeline, you’ll see what I mean. It’s a great book! 

AT: Definitely going to check that one out! Now for the fun questions! You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why? 

VAS: Olive. Because I like all shades of Green. 

AT: Nice! What would your autobiography be called? 

VAS: The woman whose Creativity was Unleashed.

AT: LOVE it! Do you believe in love at first sight? 

VAS: Yes, I fell in love with each of my kids as soon as I laid eyes on them. 

AT: Awwwwww! If a genie granted you three wishes, what would they be? (can't ask for more wishes) 

VAS: For my kids to remain; healthy, happy and positive productive individuals. 

AT: Beautiful! Are you spring, summer, fall, or winter? Please share why. 

VAS: Fall. I like the changes you see during the transition. The chill in the air, the colors of the leaves. 

AT: Yeahm I'm a fan of fall, too. Tea or coffee? 

VAS: TEA! 

AT: No ambiguity there, huh? LOL. Tell us about your most recent/current project.  

VAS: Here's an excerpt from A Family of Secrets. I’ll share the Prologue… 

“Aauugh,” he screamed in agony.

“Shut up, you…” Possum yelled. “You lying, cheating, trifling, disgusting, ughhh...” 

Possum looked at her brand-new Magnum Bronze, Desert Eagle and decided to send two shots in his calves.

“Aauugh, why are you doing this to me?” Malik cried out in between grunts.

Possum could barely see her husband because of the tears in her eyes.

“Why? Did you just ask me why? You always did ask stupid questions.” She let off another shot while yelling “I hate you!”

She didn’t know how much more he was going to be able to take. She’d already put one in his thigh, one in each calf, and one in each arm. She watched as he bled out, screaming the whole time.   Then she began to wonder how she was going to clean up once it was done. 

She shook the thought away once she remembered all the crap he put her through. She stuffed his mouth with three-one thousand dollar bills that she took from his safety deposit box; each bill represented the next three victims. He groaned, prompting her to, stuff more hundred dollar bills in his mouth. She shot him one last time in the stomach.

“Die slow. You deserve it,” she said calmly before grabbing a chocolate chip cookie off the counter and walking out the door.

Possum never even realized that she was being watched the entire time. 

AT: Oh, dang! Now, that's an excerpt! How can readers connect with you?

VAS: www.venitaaldermansadler.com 

www.facebook.com/venitaaldermansadler

www.twitter.com/venitaasadler

www.instagram.com/venitaaldermansadler

AT: Any final words? 

VAS: Thank you for allowing me to participate on your Blog. 

AT: It was my pleasure!