Monday, February 16, 2015

HOME Cover Reveal

Greetings, all!! You know, I love March. Not just because it's my birth month or because I love to watch the March Madness College Basketball Tournament, but because I am releasing my next book on March 2nd!! Here's the cover, with artwork once again created by my daughter. Check it out!!





"Home is a home run!" — Author Barbara Joe Williams


About the book:
Home by Adrienne Thompson
Genre: African American Fiction/Edgy Inspirational Fiction
Release Date: 3/2/15
Now available for pre-order: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TNPEAOA




Blurb:

For the ladies’ man Ivan Spencer, there really is no place like HOME.

A family emergency brings former rapper and current real estate mogul, Ivan Spencer, back to his long-abandoned hometown. While there, he must deal with his confused mother, his elderly, philandering father, his flaky sister, an unreliable aunt, and a face from the past who makes him question some of his earlier decisions. All he wants to do is to get things squared away and return to his life, but as it turns out, he must deal with his own issues first.




Excerpt: 


I had just sat down to drink my coffee when Daddy walked into the kitchen wearing a dingy white t-shirt and faded, striped boxers. One look at my daddy and anyone could see why he was so popular with the women. Even at seventy-something, he still had the same smooth, ruddy skin, gray eyes, wavy black hair, and bone structure that made most women swoon. The story had always been that my daddy’s daddy’s daddy was a full-blooded Quapaw Indian. My grandfather could never confirm this fact, because he never knew his father. But looking at my daddy and the features I’d inherited from him, I believed the story was pretty close to the truth.

Daddy sat down at the table with a grunt and a sigh.

“Where you been, Daddy?” I asked.

He looked at me for a second. “Here and there.”

“Mama’s sick. She’s in the hospital.”

“Yeah, I figured something like that was going on when I saw her bed empty. Plus, you here. You don’t come around no more lessin’ it’s something going on.”

I nodded.

I sat there and looked at him and waited for him to show an ounce of concern for the woman who’d borne him two children and been his wife for the past forty-some-odd years. I waited for him to ask about her or something. But he just sat there, grinding his teeth and scratching his head. “Any more hot water? I think I’ma make me some coffee,” he finally said.

He didn’t wait for me to answer. He stood from his chair with another grunt and checked the pot for himself. Then he pulled a coffee mug from the cabinet and started noisily making himself a cup of coffee, huffing and puffing and grunting the whole time. I cleared my throat and took a deep breath. My face was heating up, but I was determined to keep my composure. Daddy wasn’t going to make me lose my cool. Not this time.

“She got a hold of a bottle of laxatives and took all of them,” I said.

“Umph,” he grunted. “She always gettin’ into something.”

I took another deep breath. “Yeah, um, the doctor’s talking about sending her home this afternoon.”

“Umph.”

He sat back down across from me and loudly slurped his coffee. So we sat there in silence except for his slurps.

Slurp…

Slurp…

Slurp…

Finally, I stood from the table. “I’ma go take a shower so I can head on up to the hospital to check on Mama. You wanna ride with me?”

Slurp. “Naw, you go ‘head on. I’ll see her when she come home.” Slurp…

I sighed. “All right, then, Daddy.”


Friday, February 13, 2015

Love After War Release Day Blitz




About the book:

Connie and Drew have been butting heads since they were teenagers. With Connie refusing to talk about anything from their past, Drew has never figured out what made them go from friends to enemies. 

Drew decides to finally get to the root of their lifelong feud when Connie ends up in Texas for a remodeling project. When the truth comes out, it just might bring out some feelings both of them have been refusing to acknowledge for over a decade.


About the Author:



Growing up an introvert, Té Russ found solace in literary arts at an early age. She found reading to be a vehicle to broader horizons and writing a form of self-expression. She began writing love stories in her adolescent years as a way to expel her youthful thoughts of love into words. Since then she has gone from writing stories and thoughts of love in journals to attending college for journalism and falling in love, which has allowed those youthful words of love to blossom into a series of stories in her romance novels. Though she has an immense appreciation for the sheer smell that books collectively exert, she also has found balance to her introverted nature with adrenaline inducing activities. So if she does not have her nose pressed deeply into a book or her pen ticking through a pad, you may also find this mother of three baking some tasty treats, jumping out of airplanes, cheering her husband on at the top of her lungs at MMA fights, buzzing down the interstate on the back of motorcycles, or kayaking.


Books available on Amazon





Excerpt:

“What are we doing here Andrew?” Connie asked, annoyed.
“This is where were having lunch,” he replied simply. “You still eat pizza dont you?”
They were standing in the waiting area of Uno Chicago Grill, simply known as Unos in the area.
It looked a lot like a pizzeria they used to go to as kids in the summer in Galveston. She wondered if hed brought her here on purpose.
“Yes, I still eat pizza but–”
“Great, here comes the hostess to sit us.”
The lady barely looked at Connie; she was so busy eyeballing Drew. And flirting just a tad too much.
“Can I get you anything to drink honey?” she cooed, while brushing her hand up and down his shoulder.
“Constance?”
“What?” she asked, tearing her glare away from the woman.
He tried to hide the smirk on his face. “What would you like to drink?”
“Iced tea. Sweet.”
“Ill have the same thing,” he said, never taking his eyes off of Connie. “Ice tea. Sweet.”
“Im sure its not as sweet as you.”
“Im hardly sweet,” he replied, causing the hostess to laugh a little too hysterically and all but throw herself into Drews lap.
After she was done fawning over him, she sauntered off, with an exaggerated sway of her hips.
Connie couldnt wipe the scowl off of her face and Drew was about to say something when Miss Laughs-a-lot returned.
“Joss will be your waitress today, but if you need anything, dont hesitate to call.”
Connie watched as the woman slipped a piece of paper down in front of him. She rolled her eyes as the woman walked away.
“Unbelievable,” Connie murmured.
“What is?”
“That... woman. She was throwing herself all over you Andrew.”
He shrugged. “I suppose she was a little flirty.”
Connie laughed. “A little flirty? Andrew please! She was two seconds away from giving you a lap dance right in front of me. And she didnt acknowledge me once. It was as if I wasnt even here. For all she knew I could have been your date or girlfriend, but she didnt care.”
“But you do?” Drew asked, with a raised eyebrow.
“Excuse me?”
“Well, youre not my girlfriend. And technically this isnt a date, just lunch. So why do you care if some hostess flirts with me?”
“You are completely incorrigible! Its simply rude of her to flirt with a man in front of lady company. And its just bad customer service to ignore patrons. Besides that, I dont care who flirts with you or whom you flirt with.”
“Ah but thats the thing! I didnt flirt with her. In fact, if I recall, I never took my eyes off of you.”
Connie opened her mouth to argue, but she couldnt because he was right. Drew seemed to have barely to noticed the hostess.
Well–
“If I didnt know any better, Barb, Id say you were jealous.”
He watched as the color rose up her neck and filled her cheeks. “Andrew McAllister, I am not jealous of some floozy hitting on you!”
He chuckled, and then said, “‘The lady doth protest too much, methinks!’”
She scoffed. “Quoting Hamlet does not make you cute.”
“So what does make me cute?” he asked, his voice filled with a hint of intrigue.
Connie threw a napkin at him and he laughed out loud.
Joss, the waitress, showed up then and took their food orders. She was clearly a young girl, probably a college student and was completely enamored with Drew as well. Thankfully, she wasnt shameless like the hostess. The poor girl could barely speak. She kept looking at Connie and stealing glances toward Drew, as if he were the sun and just too bright to look at directly.
Drew ordered for them remembering exactly how Connie liked her pizza.
Another thing from their past, shed thought. But she let it slide this time, because the poor girl nearly knocked over their glasses of iced tea.
“Im so sorry,” she apologized to them both.
“Its all right,” he said to her.
Connie nodded. “Dont worry honey, no harm done.”
The girl scuffled off to put in their orders and Connie couldnt help but laugh.
“The great Andrew McAllister, turning women all over the place into crazed fools.”
“Except you,” he said sarcastically.
If only you knew, she thought.
“Im not the only one causing trouble in here,” he said, interrupting her thoughts.
“What in the world are you talking about?”
“The man sitting at the table behind you, at your five oclock...”
Connie used the excuse of tucking her hair behind her ear to glance over her shoulder and caught a man averting his eyes from their direction.
“Hes been staring at your legs, since you walked past him.”
“What? Thats ridicu–”
“The man at the table behind me, at your two oclock.. .”
He waited for her to glance over his shoulder and then look back at him.
Well,” he said, slightly annoyed, “Lets just say hes been looking a little bit North of your legs, South of your neck.”
She gasped at what he was implying.
“How could you know that?” she asked in a whisper, leaning closer toward him.
“Part of my job is to make sure I know everything going on in my surroundings.”
“Well, I guess you do your job pretty well.”
He shrugged. “Im still alive.

There was something in the tone of his voice when he said those words. If she didnt know any better, she would have thought it sounded like remorse.

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Living in the Seventh Day Book Blast and #Book #Giveaway



Author is giving away 2 Free E- books 
and 2 Free signed paperbacks. Enter contest below.


Living in the Seventh Day
Author: Jeanetta Britt
Genre: Christian Fiction
Publisher: Twelve Stones Publishing LLC (September 30, 2014)
ISBN-10: 069-2300503
ISBN-13: 978-0692300503




*Amazon Bestseller!* Jasmine, Leeza, and Cristal are thrown together by a chance meeting at the Atlanta Airport during Hurricane Allee. Under normal circumstances, these three diverse women wouldn't have said word-one to each other. By all appearances, they have absolutely nothing in common. But during the long layover caused by the killer storm, they're forced to set aside their differences--at least for the moment--and form a lasting connection. Going their separate ways, it's not long before their own well-ordered plans spiral out of control. Will their lives be blown away like their broken dreams and the six-day reign of Hurricane Allee, or will they be able to help each other find the faith and courage to let go and begin again...Living in the Seventh Day?




Bestselling author and award-winning poet, Jeanetta Britt, graduated with honors from Fisk University and The University of Michigan. She completed a successful executive career in Dallas, Texas, before returning to her native Alabama to live and to write. "My faith in Jesus Christ means more to me than anything, and it has proven to be the most valuable asset in my life," she says. "That's why I write Christian Fiction novels and Gospel poetry...to share the love!" Jeanetta's novels are also filled with juicy drama and edgy suspense--exciting the senses while inspiring the soul. She also writes inspirational poetry. In addition to being a sought-after encourager for youth and adults, alike, Jeanetta is also an avid gardener and community advocate. She founded Twelve Stones CDC—a non-profit organization that operates two community gardens in rural Alabama. “We provide free, fresh food for our community and an opportunity for our youth and senior citizens to form vital intergenerational bonds--and get some free exercise, companionship and sunshine, too.” She smiles. “No rules—just love!”




 


Author is giving away Two (2) autograph copies of Living in the Seventh Day and (2) e-book copies.




Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Jeanetta Britt and is hosted and managed by Paulette from Write Now Literary Book Tours. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Paulette @ pharperjohnson@gmail.com

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Author Interview: Barbara Joe Williams

Greetings!! Today I get to share my interview with one of my dearest author friends, bestselling author, Barbara Joe Williams. Read below to learn all about her and her wonderful books!!



Author Barbara Joe Williams

"After I turned forty and experienced a mid-life crisis, I decided to face my fears."




AT: Where are you from? 
BJW: I was born and raised in Rosston, Arkansas.

AT: Where do you live now?
BJW: Currently, I live in Tallahassee, Florida. I’ve been here since 1983.

AT: Did you always know you wanted to be a writer? 
BJW: Yes, I’ve always wanted to write, but I was afraid to try. After I turned forty and experienced a mid-life crisis, I decided to face my fears.

AT: When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book? 
BJW: I started writing my first novel titled, Forgive Us This Day, in November 2003. Two months later, I had over two hundred pages. I shared it with ten friends and family members. They all loved it, and later on, I decided to get an editor to help me further develop the story. It was self-published in November 2004.

AT: How did you choose the genre you write in? 
BJW: Romance was an easy choice for me because that’s mainly all I’ve ever enjoyed reading. I also love reading stories about strong women so my books are classified as romance and women’s fiction.

AT: Where do you get your ideas? 
BJW: All of my ideas have come from everyday living and some of the people that I’ve met during my travels. I love writing about realistic characters and storylines.

AT: Name one book that you would categorize as a life changing read. 
BJW: It would have to be I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. I grew up in rural Arkansas like she did, and that book motivated me make my professional dreams come true. I still have my paperback copy after all these years.

AT: Who is your favorite author? 
BJW: My favorite author is Terry McMillan. Ever since I read Waiting to Exhale, she’s been my favorite.

AT: Name one book you wish you’d written. 
BJW: Waiting to Exhale. I would be rich today and living on the beach in California.

AT: Tell us about your latest book. 
BJW: My latest eBook is titled, A Cup of Barbara Joe. This book is a collection of things I’ve learned about life, marriage, motherhood and people from over fifty years of living. Some of these discernments and experiences have been shared on social media, but most of them have not. Find a comfortable reading chair and enjoy a strong cup of Barbara Joe.  






AT: How can readers connect with you?
BJW: I’m on Facebook and Twitter, but I also have a website and Amazon page. 

Email: amanipublishing@aol.com
Please visit my Amazon Author’s Page for more details: http://ow.ly/EdeDI

AT: What advice would you give to aspiring authors? 
BJW: My motto is this: Writing is a hobby, but publishing is a business. Therefore, I would advise authors to learn as much as they can about the publishing industry before stepping (or jumping) into it. Once you’re published, you’re an entrepreneur. It’s up to you to market your product to the best of your abilities or hire someone who can.

Thanks for the interview. My next nonfiction eBook release is February 5 titled, A-Z Marketing Tips: A Motivational Guide to Selling Your Products. CLICK HERE to pre-order your copy today!






The next fiction eBook release is February 12 titled, Holiday Hotel 2: A Valentine’s Day story.

Quality books. All the time for $2.99 or less. 


AT: I have personally read both A Cup of Barbara Joe and A-Z Marketing Tips. They are both MUST READS!! Grab a copy today!!

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Home Cover Reveal Sign-Up!

Hello, all!! I'm looking for bloggers to feature the cover reveal of my upcoming novel, Home (release date: 3/2/15, cover reveal date, 2/16/15). Check out the form below for more info and to sign up!! Thanks in advance!!



Monday, February 2, 2015

Book Spotlight - DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH by Chicki Brown

DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH by Chicki Brown


Chicki is giving away a copy of DON’T STOP TILL YOU GET ENOUGH to one lucky person who comments on this post. Comment below to enter to win!!!

***CONTEST IS CLOSED***








Blurb


Greg Stafford has been hiding an explosive secret for years. When his secret is exposed, he is ashamed and humiliated.

Rhani Drake is an expert at helping people uncover the root of their problems. But when Greg Stafford enters her life, she doesn’t know how to handle the feelings he uncovers in her.

Will his scandal destroy her career and credibility?


Excerpt

The gentle chime on the front door sounded, and Rhani waited until her receptionist escorted him into the office. Before her stood one of the best looking men she had ever seen, which was quite an accomplishment in a city the size of New York.
“Mr. Stafford? Rhani Drake. Nice to meet you.” They shook hands, and she mentally chastised herself for the prickling sensation running across her skin when their flesh touched. She had seen him numerous times on TV, yet meeting him in person was a jolt to her senses. The first thing she noticed was his height. He towered over her five-feet-six inches. His scent registered with her senses next. The cologne he wore had a luxurious, spicy fragrance¾a mix of grass, cloves, jasmine and some other delicious scents. Dressed casually yet stylishly, his appearance came across as easy-going and self-confident.
Rhani glanced up just in time to catch his questioning expression.
“Is there something wrong?”
He removed his hat but kept the shades on. “No. It’s just…I expected you to be older.”
For some reason, hearing this pleased her. “Is my age a problem? I assure you I am well-qualified.” Rhani pointed to her framed diplomas on the office wall then waved a hand toward the sofa.  “Please have a seat.”
He sat with his long legs open, his elbows on his knees and studied the room for a long moment. “Nice office.” The emotionless tone of his voice didn’t convey his appreciation.
“Thank you.” Once she settled into the chair at the end of the sofa, she crossed her legs and rested her notebook on one knee. “Tell me why you’re here.”
He flashed the dazzling smile she’d seen on the TV screen so many times. Her stomach flipped, and she wanted to slap herself. “You already know why. I’m sure Thad told you when he made the appointment.”
Annoyed by her sensual reaction to his presence, Rhani purposely didn’t return his smile. “He did, but I’d like to hear your take on the situation. And do you mind taking off the sunglasses? I like to make eye contact with my clients.”
He poked out his lips, moved them from side to side then pulled of the shades and put them in his shirt pocket. “I got arrested for…having sex in public, which constitutes breaking the morals clause in my contract. In order to keep my job, I have to attend counseling for a minimum of three months.”
“Is that the only reason you’re here?
“Excuse me?” He met her gaze for the first time since he’d arrived, and she had to look away. His light eyes were evident on television, but looking into them in person was a different story. They were hazel—an intriguing combination of several other colors including green and brown with less melanin than brown eyes, but more than blue.  Why would she even be thinking about this at the moment? Rhani blinked, straightened and returned to her questioning. “Did you come to counseling to keep your job or to deal with the reason the therapy was ordered to begin with?”
A muscle ticked in his jaw, a square jaw covered by a smooth, neatly trimmed beard. “I need my job.” His voice deepened in timbre and intensity.
“I think you’ve answered my question. You’re saying you don’t want to be here.”
He gave an insolent shrug.

Get your copy today!!!





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