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Nikkea Smithers is a spoken word artists and Essence Magazine Best Selling Author She has performed on stages in front of thousands. Her literary work often speaks to issues in the community that are often under-discussed. Her readers have fallen in love with her ‘tell it like it is’ approach to writing making her readers lifelong fans.
Intimate Conversation with Ella Curry, CEO of EDC Creations
Ella: Hello Nikkea! Introduce us to your book, On The Flip Side.
Nikkea: On The Flip Side deals with a situation that many men face but little light is shed on. We often hear the story about the single mother doing it for her kids on a daily basis. While I would never want to take anything away from them, what we don't often hear about is the single father who is standing up to his responsibilities and being burdened with social issues beyond his realm of control. What if the mother is not the one holding it down? What if the father has the kids but the mother has the greed? On The Flip Side deals with a different kind of baby momma drama and show that real men are fathers and not just baby daddies.
Ella: Tell us a little about your main characters. Who was your favorite?
Nikkea: Tavares was on the path to be a very successful young man. A one night stand turns his life up side down and he finds himself in a position where he has to be accountable. As he struggles to be a respectable father the mother of his children does everything in her power to break him down. The twist to this tale is he just isn't just a single father, he is also paying child support as if his kids don't live with him and in two different states.
Danica is a very interesting woman with a serious God complex. She truly believes that she is better than everyone around her. Not only does her complex cause her to throw stereotypes around like they are going out of style but it causes her to play the role of karma. The problem with playing karma is that it's bound to come back on you if you aren't living right.
My favorite is Tavares because he is the epitome of real man. He immediately steps up to the plate and makes things happen. As you read the book you genuinely feel for him. His kids come first, plain and simple. Who doesn't love a man like that?
Ella: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people? What inspired you to write this story?
Nikkea: The characters aren't based on real people but are influenced by conversations. I love talking to people and my husband and I often throw these parties where there are debates on different topics. Of course one of the most popular topics of debate is child support. The men thought they paid too much. The women thought it wasn't enough. One man talked about how he was paying support in both NY and VA. He talked about how neither state would take into consideration the order in the other state. This blew my mind!
My mother was even present and shared her views on the subject which opened my eyes even more. I see story lines in the strangest of things so I thought, what if was the other way around? What if the man had his kids and was still paying child support? So I wrote the poem On The Flip Side and was surprised at the response it got from men that were going through this very thing. Then a friend of mine and I were talking after she saw me perform the poem and was telling me about a friend of hers going through this only his child's mother left the kids at the hospital after birth! I immediately thought oh this needs to be a book! I then took the poem and turned it into this book.
Ella: What issues in society have you addressed in the book?
Nikkea: Child support is the obvious issue addressed in the book but there are several subliminal messages. I love dealing with subliminal messages and try my best to place a few in every novel I write. One issue is accountability. Society is really hard on women in regards to promiscuity but men don't always get the same scrutiny. I want to show young men that they have to be responsible for their actions as well. That one night of passion could mean kids with a woman you don't know or worse, a death sentance of H.I.V. Another issue that is addressed is karma. We really need to understand that what we throw out into the universe will come back to us pressed down, shaken together and running over.
Ella: What was your primary quest in publishing this book? Nikkea: I love to break down barriers and talk about things that no one is talking about. At least not in this sense. I wanted the roles to be reversed and stretch my imagination. Especially with Danica's character, I had to dig deep for her because she is so far from me and what I would naturally do. I wanted this book to be true to the characters and show them for who they are regardless of the outcome. I love being able to uplift my brothers and say kudos to those doing the right things. Through Tavares I get to connect with readers and share with them the story of a good man.
Ella: Thousands of books are published each year. What sets your book apart from other books in your genre? Nikkea: It's all about the message. My work is educational but entertaining. I want to enlighten people. I want them to finish one of my books thinking about the subject matter and want to take action. How can we change things if we don't start by talking about them? I actively strive to write away from whats popular and get to the bottom of social issues that need to be addressed.
Ella: What do you like to do when you're not writing? Nikkea: When I'm not writing I love to read! I'm the biggest book worm. My husband and I joke that our house looks like the Library of Congress. I don't discriminate. I have poetry from Langston Hughes to Nikki Giovanni. I have nonfiction from George Jackson to Steve Harvey. I have fiction from John Gresham to E. Lynn Harris. With me being a self published author I am also a huge supporter of self published authors because I understand their grind. I also enjoy culture. I love museums, art viewings, jazz clubs, and poetry readings. I love the movies too!
Ella: What does your family think of your writing?
Nikkea: My family is very supportive. My husband has a prized collection of all of my books in his 'man room' that he shows off to all his friends. He gets the first copy in every edition of all of my works. When he sees something has discouraged me he tells me to shake it off and keep doing what I do. My mother buys my books in bulk like she doesn't know me! They are my two biggest supporters. I appreciate being surrounded by positivity and they keep me inspired to keep on writing.
Ella: What is the best piece of advice you would give to an aspiring author?
Nikkea: Do your research, stay positive and value the message over all else.
Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases. Nikkea: I was excited to find out that two of my books (Keith's Story and Attitudes of a Woman) were awarded with the Literary Hallmark & Legends Top Books 2009 award by Black Pearls Magazine. That honor was one of the highlights of my year!
Within the next year I have three more books that will be released. I also look forward to touring and performing. I want to dedicate my time in the new year connecting with my readers. Book clubs who select my book as their book of the month can reach out to me so that I can make plans to either be present or available for a teleconfrence.
Domestic Violence is a touchy and controversial subject. In society it is considered unacceptable and unconceivable for a man to physically batter his girlfriend or wife. The recent incident with singers Chris Brown and Rihanna was a publicized and highly debated event. Many famous people expressed discontent with, criticized, and verbally condemned Chris Brown; while siding with and supporting Rihanna, without being witnesses to the occurrence. I have two conflicting feelings in regards to domestic violence. Generally, I believe that it is wrong to hit a person that you are supposed to care for, because that person may be critically injured or killed. Many women have died at the hands of the men they loved. It is a dangerous habit and a problem that escalates over time, as many statistics prove. Relationships are so multi-faceted and often times built on foundations of lust, long before love. Add is a little stress, a few lies by omission and things get out of hand quickly.
Many young women have the misconception that if a man puts his hand on them, it is because he loves them enough to lose control, because if he didn't care he wouldn't get that angry. Herein lies the problem: a man who does not know how to deal with his emotions or control his anger, is a man to fear. When a man starts the cycle of abuse often times the assaults become worse and worse as time goes on and more and more frequent. What may begin as a shove may turn into a punch and ultimately a murder. Emotions run high in matters of the heart and volatile relationships don't become healthy ones easily. When things are going great is not the time to decide whether you are with the right man. However, the time to assess who you really love is when there are issues or conflicts. No one should hurt you in order to show their love. Your spouse or mate should be able to deal with problems with their mind and not their fists. When the schoolyard fighting days are over, adults need to know how to handle situations.
As an author, I write about these situations because I see them unfold daily; most likely not receiving the same publicity of Chris and Rihanna. My book, A Woman Scorned, addresses the issue of domestic violence from the female abuser’s point of view. The main character, Brielle Prescott, remained in an abusive marriage partially because of her physical abuse by her parents as a child. The emotional scars and distress from being battered lasts, affecting the victim for a lifetime, in many cases, in real life and in my fictional tales.
No matter how damaged the individual is there really an excuse to hit someone you are involved with? What if she/he cheats? What if she/he lies about where they were and who they were with? What if she spends the money that should have gone to bills? Is there really any justification for physical abuse except for the fact that it comes from lack of rationale. When a man lashes out, he may not intend to black an eye, bust a lip, break a limb, or commit a stabbing or shooting, but that does not mean it won't happen. As a woman who has dealt with more than one hostile and violent man in my lifetime, I know that it is by the grace of God that I was never badly hurt. However, I could have been. I choose not to excuse that behavior in my "seasoned" time as a woman.
I decided to heed the warning signs and not leave my life in the hands of an irrational man, because life and death are only a breath and heartbeat away from each other, and in one split second you can be gone. Contrary to what I just expressed, however, I do understand what rage feels like. I have been wronged by past boyfriends, as well, and it is not a good feeling. I know how it feels to lose control and lash out with my fists. I have been on both sides of this issue and that’s why I wrote A Woman Scorned. My main character, Brielle, is a victim and a perpetrator. She becomes the very thing she had come to hate, an abuser. She resorts to revenge, which is also a form of domestic violence—if violence is the means to getting that revenge.
How do we know what Rihanna did to Chris Brown to make him lash out? How do we know that she did not hit him first? Many might say that it doesn't matter because a woman is not capable of hurting a man the way a man is able to hurt a woman. However, is that true when a woman has a weapon? No, it is not. I have brought Domestic Violence and Revenge together because there is sometimes a marriage of the two in relationships. Domestic Violence is sometimes a reaction to a real injustice that is done to someone and Revenge is a reaction to the same. Therefore, what I believe we must do as a society is be more understanding, as opposed to condemning. Next, offer help to those who are on both sides of the issue. Chris Brown expressed a feeling of betrayal from Oprah for "all that he had done for her" because he said that he expected Oprah to offer him some advice or assistance in how to heal as well. Rihanna was not the only one who needed support. He is human, as we all are. I am not condoning abusers or anyone who inflicts pain on another. But let’s be real, it happens, on both sides! None of us can handle things the right way, at all times. Emotions run high the matter of love. So why is it that we find it okay, to kill the perpetrator? Isn't that violence too? What about trying to find the root of the problem? Let’s try to find the stressors that created the violence and address those issues, instead of rushing to judgment. I am sure many of you have opinions on revenge and what defines domestic violence. Share your views on the subject too, let’s talk about it.
Meet the Author Ericka Williams is a determined business woman and author. She never takes no for an answer. When she sets her mind on a goal, she doesn't stop until it is reached. She is a graduate of Teaneck High School, in Teaneck New Jersey. She attended Howard University and graduated from Rutgers University. She is currently a teacher. Ericka has always had a yearning for knowledge, expression, and creativity.
She is the author of three books the Essence Magazine bestseller “All That Glitters”, and the sequel “Shining Star”, as well as the forthcoming release A Woman Scorned. Pick up a copy at Amazon Online
Jewell R. Powell, affectionately known as ‘the Marriage Coach’ is an entrepreneur, inspirational teacher, and author of Marriage 101: Building a Life Together by Faith. Jewell is passionate about helping couples have a ‘happily ever after’ marriage. She graduated from VCMI Ministerial Training School and is working towards a Masters of Divinity degree from Regent University.
Jewell R. Powell shares her spiritual journey and shows you how to have a ”happily ever after” marriage “Till death do we part.” These words are said about 2.5 million times each year. But, despite couples’ best intentions and attempts to stay true to those vows, many—almost half!—end up in divorce. What’s going wrong?
That’s what author Jewell R. Powell asked when she found herself four years into marriage, sitting in a bedroom alone and on the brink of divorce. Desperate for answers, Powell dove deep into her faith. She searched the Scriptures for instruction on how to save her own marriage—and was surprised by what she found. That was nine years ago. Today, her marriage with her husband is better than ever—thanks to the eight surprising truths she uncovered during that period of intense study and soul-searching.
Her book Marriage 101: Building A Life Together By Faith digs into those eight biblical truths and reveals how applying them can transform even the worst of relationships. (ISBN: 978-0-8007-3332-2, $13.99, February) Published by Revell (Baker Publishing); available at following Retail Outlets: Christian and Mainstream Retail Stores, and online at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, BooksAMillion.com, Walmart.com and Target.com. Revell offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life.
Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you? My passion is not for writing. My passion is for helping people. Therefore, I am driven to write.
Ella: Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
Faith, Hope and Love. I want people, whether adults or children (I am a children’s writer as well) to experience God in a greater way after reading my books.
Ella: Give us the "behind the book" story on, Marriage 101: Building A Life Together By Faith.
I share a story many know all too well. Whether in their own lives or in those of close family and friends. It’s a story about a marriage in trouble. I take you on my spiritual journey—of how my husband and I went from being engaged and enthusiastic to being frustrated and separated. I share the real issues that plague most marriages and the many challenges we faced. I share the disappointment I felt, looking at what was supposed to be “happily ever after.” But I also share how Lewis and I were able to rebuild our relationship and the lessons learned along the way as I implemented biblical truths from searching the Scriptures.
Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book? The story is a parable of Sleeping Beauty. As you know, Jesus spoke in parables hidden messages. I want the readers to understand that the message is not so much about marriage, but more about how to become like Him. It is a transformational process. Once you become a better Christian, you will be a better wife, mother, friends, etc.
Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why? Marriage 101 is not for everyone. I believe it is for those who desire to go to the next level with God. It is time for Christians to stop just going to church and become the church – people experiencing God through you no matter where you are.
Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to have a successful marriage, in your opinion? 1: Renew YOUR mind – you can have a better relationship. Think on the positive things about your spouse and do not concentrate on the present situation.
2: Change YOUR behaviors and perception – to have better relationships requires YOU to do something different. Doing the same things but expecting different results is INSANITY. I know most of you have heard the saying, “You can’t change others, but you can change yourselves.” Therefore, you must be the change you want to see in your marriage.
3: Work YOUR marriage. In other words, marriage is work. Successful couples understand that they have to make their marriage a priority and they do something everyday to acknowledge it. You only get out of it what you put into it – deposit love daily.
Ella: What can we expect from you in the future? Traveling and teaching the eight biblical truths the Lord spoke to me. Holding marriage conferences and seminars to not only help those who are having trouble but helping keep those who already have great marriages strong.
Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases. Marriage 101 was the Award-Winner in the Religion: Christian Inspiration category of the National Best Books 2009 Awards, sponsored by USA Book Best Books and the Marriage 101 Journal was a finalist. Marriage 101 is also listed as the #1 Bestseller list on Mosiacbooks.com. I have a four (4) book mini-series coming out in December 2009 that covers marriage topics we all face: Sex & Intimacy, Communication, Parenting, and Finance.
Even Sinners Have Souls Too
Introduction by National Best selling author, K'Wan, with four stories by Darrell King and Essence Magazine bestselling authors, Michel Moore, Tysha and Victor L. Martin.
Meet author and editor E.N. Joy
E.N. Joy is the author of Me, Myself and Him, which was her debut work into the Christian Fiction genre. Formerly a secular author writing under the names Joylynn M. Jossel and JOY, this author has fully dedicated her writing to Christ. She is currently working on the “New Day Divas” series as well as completing the “Sinners Series” project.
Intimate Conversation with Ella Curry of EDC Creations
Ella: Introduce us to the book, Even Sinners Have Souls TOO.
E.N. Joy: Even Sinners Have Souls TOO is book two from the “Sinners Series”. As editor and publisher of this project, it was my goal to share with the reading audience well written and compelling stories by some of the industry’s most respected and authority authors in the Urban Lit genre.
Ella: Why was it important to produce this work today?
E.N. Joy: Books and authors of books that are categorized as urban, erotic, street, ghetto, gangster, Hip-Hop fiction, or whatever else they are being labeled, are taking hard hits in the industry, especially by these so-called “literary writers”. Why is it that whenever black people bring the life they live front and center and turn it into art, society goes crazy? Are we that afraid and offended of the ghetto and the projects to the point where we ridicule those who talk about it? Is growing up in the hood that taboo?
E.N. Joy: Despite popular belief, everything that comes from the ghetto isn’t all bad. There are some good products of the ghetto. It produces great individuals, some even authors. But because of the type of genre that these authors choose to pen, they are stigmatized and rumored unable to create literature without glorifying a trigger happy, drug dealing thug, or a burgundy micro braid wearing, gum poppin’, promiscuous gold digger, or a television stealing crack head (in addition to at least two curse words per paragraph).
Ella: Will this book change how Urban Lit is protrayed as a industry?
E.N. Joy: There is a huge misconception that authors who write Urban Lit, referred to as Street Lit by many, can’t pen a decent story that doesn’t include foul language and explicit sex scenes. These authors are even often accused of glorifying street life. The “Sinners Series” forces critics and skeptics alike to take a different stand when they read the storylines contained in the “Sinners Series.”
Ella: What are some unique aspects of the Sinners Series?
E.N. Joy: Even Sinners Have Souls Too offers more of Urban Lit's finest take a walk on the other side in book two, Even Sinners Have Souls Too, of the three book Sinners Series. Darrell King and Essence Best-Selling authors, Victor L. Martin, Tysha and Michel Moore bring you four smashing tales, but not before National Best-Selling author, K'Wan, hits you with the powerful introduction, "Oh Sinner Man."
E.N. Joy: The authors bring to life the same raw and gritty characters found in some of their other works. There are the dope boys, the hood rats, the promiscuity, homosexuality, the gang bangers, abuse, drugs, alcohol, etc...; all the things that exist in real life on the streets. But what makes these tales so phenomenal and unique is that in the midst of it all, just like in real life on the streets, there is also, God, prayer, and sometimes a praying grandmother. What pleased me the most about each and every story is that they never, for one moment, lost their authenticity. The authors still walked away from this project with their street credit, so to speak.
Ella: What impact with the Sinners Series have on the community?
E.N. Joy: The “Sinners Series” is going to shatter the myth about urban and street literature and its authors once and for all. This project is not so that authors have to defend their work, or even compromise it.
The purpose is to show that they are multi-talented with a natural gift to pen what flows through their spirit and not just what’s selling, and at the same time to add a creative twist on their already original writing styles. In doing so, we pray that readers will be touched and moved by every single character; every single story…that they won’t be the same person as they were before reading these works.
I would like to introduce you to a fantastic new book, Color Me Jazzmyne. Readers of Color Me Jazzmyne have been captivated by the depth of the emotional journey that the book takes them on. It digs deep into what it takes for women to embrace who they are no matter what size, color, educational background or social status. Sisters will learn to love themselves despite what society says or the voices that surround them!
Author Marian L . Thomas not only delivers her first novel but takes on real-life topics that are affecting society today. The topics that are discussed throughout her book are ones that are often rejected by mainstream publishing houses. She cuts to the core of serious subject matter: rape, the mental health of Black women, self-esteem issues with women and the cutthroat world of the music business and lands the reader into the thick of a good story.
“Color Me Jazzmyne” is an unconventional, yet fascinating first novel by Marian L. Thomas. At the frighteningly young age of thirteen, Naya Mona (later to be known as the famous jazz singer Jazzmyne) is raped by her own father and eventually gives birth to her son who is taken from her, his whereabouts unknown for many years. At seventeen, she escapes the intolerable household of her father to live in the city where her voice is discovered by the wrong people.
She meets struggle after struggle; people take advantage of her talent nearly wrecking her spirit, people she thought to be friends use her to get ahead in their own lives. But she does not break spirit, in spite of her many hardships. Later in life, as the story opens up, Jazzmyne meets her adult son for the first time since his birth. Many surprising facts are revealed about her past and her son’s past.
Jazzmyne likens her existence to a box of crayons. Each color expresses a different emotion, strength or weakness that makes up the essence of Jazzmyne. Thomas’ writing is so reflective and interesting. But this is the purpose of the novel, to find out what color is Jazzmyne, which I still do not know or maybe do not understand her completely. Perhaps honesty is her color. In a world of hiding behind fame and from a past of deception from those who were supposed to be the closest, she wants only to be honest and real, especially concerning her son.
Thomas definitely cuts to the core of serious subject matter: rape and incest and the cutthroat world of the music business. The shocking reality of it all mixed with Jazzmyne’s relaxed and melodious voice makes “Color Me Jazzmyne” a true reading pleasure. The book is written in a kind of free flow, stream of consciousness style that one can hear her melody singing through the pages.
The Future seems to hold limited possibilities for Son Erby. The African-American child of a farm laborer in 1930’s Tennessee, his fate seems as certain as the sunset at day’s end. But when his father takes him to work at the Coleman farm and hands down the secret to making corn liquor, everything changes.
Moving from shadowed parlors of the wealthy Sawyer clan to the illegal activities in the woods along the Mississippi River, this perspective novel explores the roots of racism, and the dangerous power of secrets that will shatter every taboo in a sleepy town caught between the past and future. The Legend of Quito Road is a look at a bygone time, the sobering echoes of which can still be heard today.
Chapter 7—A SECRET SCIENCE
In the scene below from The Legend of Quito Road, Papa Gill Erby, a religious man, teaches his only boy how to make illegal whiskey and keep secrets. Are there really many spiritual or physical differences in making crack cocaine or crystal meth today and white lightning yesterday?
“Now, Son, this is serious business, awful serious for a boy. Remember when we talked about the Ghost of Quito Road yesterday?”
“Yessuh, he was a runaway slave.”
“Son, I said that and plenty folks ‘round here know it. But they don’t talk it in public. I waited five years after we married befo’ I spoke with Sarah on this. Now, I’m telling you that the Ghost wasn’t just any man. He was my daddy, Gillam Hale.”
“Gillam Hale…” The boy paused while he processed it. “Papa, why’s your daddy’s name different than ours?”
“Well, I’ll tell you that long story after we get things set up. But, for now, I need to get a few things straight. Understand?”
“Yessuh, I do.”
“Son, remember, you promised. You know Sarah gone ask, but don’t you tell yo’ momma one thing. You hear me?”
“Yessuh.”
“This week, we doing the same thing that made Gillam Hale a valuable slave to the white folks.” Papa Gill looked around as if someone else was there. One of the mules snorted. He whispered, “Me and you gone make whiskey this week on the Coleman place.”
“Whiskey?” the youth said, twisting his face.
“Yeah, that’s what we gonna do. We’ll fill every five-gallon jug in the back of this wagon with white-lightning whiskey.”
“Papa, we got twenty-five jugs! What’s Mr. Rafe and Mr. Conrad gone do with all that whiskey?”
“Sell it!” Papa Gill spat out. “They’ll probably get as much as six dollars a gallon off the whiskey we fixin’ to make.”
Papa Gill placed his left hand inside his overalls and a strained silence surrounded them from the naked roadside underbrush. Only the noises of the mule team’s hooves and the slicing sound from the steel-lined wagon wheels echoed along sandy Quito Road.
Son’s breath trails thickened in the winter air as he did the math in his head and pondered the economic possibilities.
On that farm, Mr. Conrad and Mr. Rafe Coleman raised cotton, sorghum and corn—corn so sweet that Son liked to eat it straight off the cob in the field during the summer months. You could use corn for feed or you could grind it into meal. But during this third week of December in 1932, thirteen-year-old Son Erby learned you could use corn for something else.
That week, Papa Gill taught his son to make white lightning like Gillam Hale had showed him. Making illegal corn liquor changed everything for that colored boy. Son was never the same. He learned a secret science and he learned it well.
Meet author Dwight Fryer Fryer shares from his twenty-five years of business experience in leadership, technology, finance, accounting, marketing and publishing. He has written two critically acclaimed novels. The Legend of Quito Road and The Knees of Gullah Island. Dwight speaks about life, healthcare, business, leadership, history, literature, community and storytelling. The University of Memphis teaches The Legend of Quito Road in its Masters of Fine Arts Program in the English Department.
Dwight Fryer has inspired audiences at universities, corporations, schools, faith communities and nonprofit organizations. His passion is to help people do all they can to succeed and use his experiences to inspire others.
Fryer was diagnosed with cancer two days after a 1998 layoff. In 2001, the disease meningococcal meningitis took his youngest daughter’s life. He works as an advocate for immunization against bacterial meningitis with the National Meningitis Association. He survived a wreck caused by a driver under the influence. Contact him today for details on how he can share at your next event via email at author@dwightfryer.com
Legal Thriller: Buying Time
by Pamela Samuels Young
Waverly Sloan is a down-on-his-luck lawyer. But just when he's about to hit rock bottom, he stumbles upon a business with the potential to solve all of his problems.
In Waverly's new line of work, he comes to the aid of people in desperate need of cash. But there's a catch. His clients must be terminally ill and willing to sign over rights to their life insurance policies before they can collect a dime. Waverly then finds investors eager to advance them thousands of dollars—including a hefty broker's fee for himself—in exchange for a significant return on their investment once the clients take their last breath.
The stakes get higher when Waverly brokers the policy of the cancer-stricken wife of Lawrence Erickson, a high-powered lawyer who's bucking to become the next U.S. Attorney General. When Waverly's clients start dying sooner than they should, both Waverly and Erickson—who has some skeletons of his own to hide—are unwittingly drawn into a perilous web of greed, blackmail and murder.
Meet the Author
Join author Pamela Samuels Young for her online book tour November 2-10, 2009. You are invited to participate in online reading sessions, contests, bookclub giveaways, radio interviews and guest blogging sessions. Meet her online from the comforts of your home to celebrate the release of Buying Time. Explore the tour below and join us at your favorite network!
Pamela Samuels Young is the Essence bestselling author of Murder on the Down Low, In Firm Pursuit, Every Reasonable Doubt and the newly released Buying Time. The former journalist and Compton native is the fiction writing expert for BizyMoms.com and is on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. Pamela served as legal consultant to the Showtime television series Soul Food. She is a frequent speaker on the topics of writing and self-empowerment. View her books here and read excerpts: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/
Bookclubs, select one of Pamela’s novels for your book club meeting and she will join you in person, via webcam or via speaker phone. To schedule a visit with Pamela or a live reading from Buying Time, email her at: author@pamelasamuelsyoung.com. Read more book excerpts here: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/books/index.html
Buying Time by Pamela Samuels Young ISBN-10: 098156271X | ISBN-13: 978-0981562711
Corporate attorney Pamela Samuels Young has always abided by the philosophy that you create the change you want to see. Fed up with never seeing women or people of color depicted as savvy, hot shot attorneys in the legal thrillers she read, Pamela decided to create her own characters. Despite the demands of a busy legal career, Pamela accomplished her ambitious goal by rising at four in the morning to write before work, dedicating her weekends to writing and even spending her vacation time glued to her laptop for ten or more hours a day. The Essence magazine bestselling author now has four fast-paced legal thrillers to show for her efforts.
Pamela’s debut novel, Every Reasonable Doubt (February 2006), won the Black Expressions Book Club’s Fiction Writing Contest, received an honorable mention in the SEAK Legal Fiction Writing Competition and was a finalist for USA Book News’ Best Books of 2006 awards in the mystery, suspense and thriller category.
Her second novel, In Firm Pursuit (January 2007) was honored by Romantic Times magazine as a finalist for Best African-American Novel of 2007. Murder on the Down Low (September 2008), Pamela’s third release, was an “Editor’s Pick” by Black Expressions magazine and a finalist for the 2009 African-American Literary Awards in the mystery category. Pamela then published her first stand-alone novel, Buying Time (November 2009). Her short story, Setup, was selected for the 2006 Sisters in Crime anthology, LAndmarked for Murder.
A former journalist, Pamela began her broadcasting career as a production assistant at WXYZ-TV in Detroit, where she was quickly promoted to news writer. To escape the brutal Detroit winters, she returned home to Los Angeles and worked at KCBS-TV as a news writer and associate producer.
A native of Compton and a former Coro Foundation Fellow, Pamela has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from USC and a master’s degree in broadcasting from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. She received her law degree from UC Berkeley’s Boalt Hall School of Law and was formerly an adjunct professor at the University of Redlands’ School of Business. Pamela currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Chapter of Mystery Writers of America and is the Fiction Expert for BizyMoms.com.
Pamela is a frequent speaker on the topics of discrimination law, writing and pursuing your passion. She is married and lives in the Los Angeles area. To contact Pamela or to read an excerpt of her books, visit http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/
Bookclubs, select one of Pamela’s novels for your book club meeting and she will join you in person, via webcam or via speaker phone. Read more book excerpts here: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/books/index.html
Check out Buying Time by Pamela Samuels Young Today!
“SOMEBODY’S SINNING IN MY BED” by Pat G'Orge Walker
ISBN-10: 0758235402 | ISBN-13: 9780758235404
Available wherever books are sold and at all online book retailers
Pat G’Orge-Walker delivers a wickedly funny, uplifting novel of love and betrayal…good karma and bad karma…sin and redemption
Chyna and her sister Janelle are always moments away from a catfight. They love each other, but Janelle has never forgiven her sister for swiping her first love, Cordell. That was ages ago, and now Chyna is showing off as the First Lady of New Hope Assembly, a church that’s caught between the old ways of Holiness and new ways of serving its community. New Hope’s leader, Reverend Grayson Young, is also caught…in the infamous Sweet Bush lounge, an establishment well-known for adult pleasures.
With the church congregation running wild in the aftermath of her husband’s scandalous behavior, Chyna turns to her sister Janelle for guidance. But if Chyna thinks she’s getting sympathy from Janelle, she’d better think again, because Janelle’s got her own crisis. And when Cordell suddenly comes back into the sisters’ lives, what follows are squabbling, chaos, and surprises that show just how hard the road to salvation really is…
Book Tour Online: Somebody’s Sinning in My Bed
Join Pat as she travels across the web discussing her book, her journey to publication and the messages within her new book Somebody’s Sinning in My Bed. Meet Pat at your favorite social network and explore new ones. Leave your comments on the sites. Five readers will win signed copies of Somebody’s Sinning in My Bed. Winners announced on the Black Pearls Magazine blog on November 27, 2009.
Laughter is the Best Medicine of All! Somebody's Sinning in My Bed by Pat G'Orge-Walker Genre: Christian Fiction; Faith-based
5-star Review By Books and Beignets Book Club
"Somebody's Sinning in My Bed" by Pat G'Orge-Walker is a delightful treat! It is primarily the tale of two sisters - different as salt and pepper, yet with similar seasoning. Although different, both sisters have the same number of skeletons in the closet and many people are counting! Chyna is First Lady of New Hope Assembly, a church full of more scandals and mess than "The National Enquirer." To the outside world, Chyna has it going on - she is saved, she is beautiful, has all the treasures money can buy, and has the respectful title as First Lady, married to New Hope's leader, Reverend Grayson Young.
Despite all of this, Chyna is unhappy and unfulfilled with her life and herself. Chyna's sister, Janelle, is also beautiful, outspoken, single, and could care less about the inside of a church and/or bible. Janelle and Chyna both harbor an unspoken grudge against one another, and cannot be in the same room longer than a few minutes without conflict - yet they love each other and have each other's back (um...well not all of the time).
The story heats up (literally) when an unsavory club in the neighborhood, Sweet Bush Lounge burns down, and the good Reverend Grayson Young is caught in a scandal that will change the lives of Chyna, Janelle, many colorful characters of New Hope Assembly Church and anyone else connected to Chyna and Janelle. To add more fuel to the fire, Janelle's first love, Cordell, shows up like the ghost from Christmas past, with enough skeletons in his own closet to host an anatomy class. Cordell has a few scores to settle with both Chyna and Janelle and in the process, the floodgates of hell are opened and there is no turning back.
One character readers will never forget is Deacon Pillar. Deacon Pillar steps in to provide help to Chyna, Janelle and Cordell and other members at New Hope Assembly - by any means necessary! Deacon Pillar had me laughing until my side hurt. I could visualize an entire book based on his character alone.
Overall, I highly recommend this book! Author Pat G'Orge-Walker stepped out on faith, tried something a little different and hit a home run! Despite everything that is going on in the world right now, it was truly refreshing to pick up a good book and laugh...and laugh....and laugh again. "Somebody's Sinning in My Bed" confirms that laughter is the best medicine of all - it was just what the doctor ordered!
--- Rating: 5 Beignets out of 5-- Reviewed by: Sonya Ward, Books and Beignets Book Club
Pat G'orge-Walker on Gospel Interviews with Larry W. Robinson
Pat G'orge-Walker, author of "SOMEBODY'S SINNING IN MY BED" shares with Larry W. Robinson, host of http://www.gospelinterviews.com about her latest book which EXPOSES a Mega Church Pastor CAUGHT "In the Act!!!" For more visit http://www.gospelinterviews.com/
“SOMEBODY’S SINNING IN MY BED” by Pat G'Orge Walker ISBN-10: 0758235402 | ISBN-13: 9780758235404
Available wherever books are sold
Pat G’Orge-Walker delivers a wickedly funny, uplifting novel of love and betrayal…good karma and bad karma…sin and redemption
Chyna and her sister Janelle are always moments away from a catfight. They love each other, but Janelle has never forgiven her sister for swiping her first love, Cordell. That was ages ago, and now Chyna is showing off as the First Lady of New Hope Assembly, a church that’s caught between the old ways of Holiness and new ways of serving its community. New Hope’s leader, Reverend Grayson Young, is also caught…in the infamous Sweet Bush lounge, an establishment well-known for adult pleasures.
With the church congregation running wild in the aftermath of her husband’s scandalous behavior, Chyna turns to her sister Janelle for guidance. But if Chyna thinks she’s getting sympathy from Janelle, she’d better think again, because Janelle’s got her own crisis. And when Cordell suddenly comes back into the sisters’ lives, what follows are squabbling, chaos, and surprises that show just how hard the road to salvation really is…
APOOO Bookclub Review Title: Somebody’s Sinning in My Bed by Pat G'Orge Walker
Author: Pat G’Orge-Walker
Apooo: 5; Amazon: 5
Heading: God’s Divine Forgiveness
Author Pat G’Orge-Walker penned a novel that demonstrates God’s divine forgiveness, even in the midst of the messiest lives. In Somebody’s Sinning in My Bed, things do not look like they will ever again be normal in the lives of Chyna and her sister Janelle after the death of Chyna’s husband, Reverend Grayson Young. Usually the death of a leader scatters the flock, but upon the good Reverend’s death, the higher echelon of New Hope rallied together to save their “good” reputation and remind the church they needed to go back to the “ole time way.”
Chyna had enough to contend with upon her husband’s untimely death, but the reappearance of someone from her past yet connected to her sister, Janelle, brought up past hurts, unforgiveness and battles with emotions once believed to be dead and buried. To top it all off, First Lady had to figure a way to deal with the threats (yes threats) coming from the Pastor’s Aid Committee and all they were throwing her way. But someone should have reminded those folks about messing with God’s woman and hindering what He was doing in Chyna’s life. God will move folk, kill them, if necessary.
In steps Deacon Pillar to help Chyna, Janelle and all the mess that was created and brought to the open in order to experience God’s divine forgiveness. Sometimes the hardest thing in life to do is forgive oneself. Deac always knew what to say, even when he was not supposed to say it.
I really enjoyed Somebody’s Sinning in My Bed, a story that I found timely for this day as it is presented in God’s Word, “He that is without sin among you...” I recommend this book to everyone, especially those who need to learn the real meaning of forgiveness; God addresses all parties involved.
=Review by Sharel E. Gordon-Love, APOOO BookClub
Book Spotlight: Ingredients for Prayer by Eric Lambert
In times of economic turmoil in the lives of so many, people are turning to whatever financial bailout that comes their way. These stimulus packages include reduced costs for services, rebates, two for one deals, and even prayer. The Rev. Eric A. Lambert Jr. believes prayer is the stimulus to improving people’s lives not as a gimmick but by, for one, giving them peace even though they have a bleak financial outlook.
“Through prayer we find a place that guarantees peace,” Rev. Lambert says. “God wants to solve our problems and give us peace.” In his latest book, Ingredients for Prayer: A Practical Approach for Maximizing Your Time with God, Rev. Lambert, pastor of Bethel Deliverance International Church north of Philadelphia, details what he believes is the true purpose of prayer in contrast to the ‘give me syndrome’ of prayer that so many with financial woes seem to have.
“We are often challenged by the worldly view of prayer, and we fall into the trap that makes us think that we are able to use prayer to bully the Lord into doing what we want. Yet I believe prayer is a time for intimacy and connection with God,” Rev. Lambert says. “Prayer by definition is worshipful oratory. By hyper-definition, prayer is an act of intercourse with your soul and God’s spirit. It is you connecting with God until your desires have been replaced by His heart.”
By using “The Lord’s Prayer” as a framework, he examines pieces of this prayer model to show ways to connect with God, like understanding the mind and will of God and becoming dependent upon and receiving the peace of God. Rev. Lambert says having a God-centered and not self-centered focus on prayer helps you to know that “[p]rayer is not about you. It is about the will of the Lord being done through you. To make supplication means that you should bring your request to the Lord; however, you must be sure that your request does not go against the will of the Lord.”
Rev. Eric A. Lambert Jr. responded to God’s call to Jesus Christ in 1971. From that time he was active in Christian ministry, serving in a variety of capacities at Deliverance Evangelistic Church, under the pastorate of the Rev. Dr. Benjamin Smith Sr. In 1987, after God’s leading, Rev. Lambert established Bethel Deliverance International Church in 1987 with seven committed believers, just north of his hometown of Philadelphia. In addition to pastoring, Rev. Lambert is fulfilling his apostolic calling, having planted a number of churches and developed pastoral relationships with both new and seasoned pastors. He remains committed to spreading the love of God to those who do not know Him while stabilizing and fortifying believers. This is evident not only in his church but in the messages of his books. For more information, visit www.betheldeliverance.org.
EDC Creations and the Sankofa Literary Society announces the official virtual book tour of Francis Ray, the National bestselling author of ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, a romance novel. From Monday, November 1-- Sunday, November 8, 2009 follow Francis and Ella Curry on an fantastic journey all over the Internet from the comfort of your home. This virtual book tour is brought to you by EDC Creations Media Group. To learn more about Francis Ray, visit her at: http://www.francisray.com/
New York Times bestselling author Francis Ray continues her captivating series about the Grayson family and their circle of friends with One Night With You, as two people with no plans for romance find themselves blindsided by desire…
THE THRILL OF THE CHASE... Cougars, brush fires, snow storms—rancher Duncan McBride tackles it all without a flinch. But the archeologist who’s come to authenticate cave drawings found on his property is the kind of trouble he’d sworn to avoid. Far from the aging academic he was expecting, Raven La Blanc is a stunning woman…and definitely not sticking around this small Montana town once her job is done.
THE PASSION OF A LIFETIME… The primitive drawings at Duncan’s ranch are Raven’s ticket to the tenured position she’s worked so hard for back in Santa Fe. But there’s no denying the attraction between her and Duncan. Maybe, just this once, she can put her work aside and explore the depths of her own heart and soul? One night may be all it takes for Raven to really find what she’s looking for…
“FAST, FUN, AND FULL OF EMOTIONAL THRILLS AND SEXY CHILLS.”
—Roxanne St. Clair, bestselling author on Nobody But You
About the Author National bestselling author Francis Ray is a native Texan and graduate of Texas Woman's University where she was twice nominated for the Distinguished Alumni Award. INCOGNITO, her 6th novel, was the first made-for-TV movie from BET.
With the release of THE TURNING POINT, her first mainstream, she established The Turning Point Legal Fund to assist women of domestic violence. The fund is administered by The Family Place, a woman's shelter in Dallas.
Her writing awards include the EMMA, Romantic Times Career Achievement Award, Atlantic Choice, Golden Pen as well as several awards from libraries and book clubs. NOT EVEN IF YOU BEGGED, her 37th title, is the fourth book in the popular Invincible Women Series was released January 24, 2008 and made Border's and WalMart bestselling list.
September 2008 saw the release of THE WAY YOU LOVE ME, Book One in her new Grayson Friends Series. In November UNTIL THERE WAS YOU, Book One, in the Graysons of New Mexico Series was reissued.
NOBODY BUT YOU, Book Two, in the Grayson Friends Series was released March 03, 2009 and went on make both the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists.. Her 40th book, AND MISTRESS MAKES THREE, Book Five in the Invincible Women Series, hit book shelves June 23, 2009. Closing out the year is ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, Book Three of the Grayson Friends Series.
National bestselling author Francis Ray is a native Texan and graduate of Texas Woman's University where she was twice nominated for the Distinguished Alumni Award.
INCOGNITO, her 6th novel, was the first made-for-TV movie from BET. With the release of THE TURNING POINT, her first mainstream, she established The Turning Point Legal Fund to assist women of domestic violence. The fund is administered by The Family Place, a woman's shelter in Dallas.
Her writing awards include the EMMA, Romantic Times Career Achievement Award, Atlantic Choice, Golden Pen as well as several awards from libraries and book clubs.
NOT EVEN IF YOU BEGGED, her 37th title, is the fourth book in the popular Invincible Women Series was released January 24, 2008 and made Border's and WalMart bestselling list. September 2008 saw the release of THE WAY YOU LOVE ME, Book One in her new Grayson Friends Series. In November UNTIL THERE WAS YOU, Book One, in the Graysons of New Mexico Series was reissued.
2009 promises to be a busy year for Ms. Ray. NOBODY BUT YOU, Book Two, in the Grayson Friends Series was released March 03, 2009 and went on make both the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists.. Her 40th book, AND MISTRESS MAKES THREE, Book Five in the Invincible Women Series, hit book shelves June 23, 2009. Closing out the year is ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, Book Three of the Grayson Friends Series.
Latest Release: One Night with You November 03, 2009
Series: Grayson Friends Series
ISBN-13: 9780312365066
ISBN-10: 0312365063
Contest: Read the excerpt at the end of interview. Leave your email address and the names of the characters, from the excerpt, in the comments section below. A random drawing will be held on Nov. 27, 2009 and select 5 winners of a copy of One Night with You! Shelfari, Facebook, MySpace, BlackPlanet and Black Pearls readers are all welcome to participate. All the comments will be combined and the winners selected. You may email us for a list of winners as well: edc_dg@yahoo.com
Intimate Conversation with author Francis Ray and Ella Curry, EDC Creations
Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Francis Ray: Although writing is a challenge, I'm almost compelled to. It's wonderful being able to tell a story of love and triumph where the good guys wins and the bad guys get theirs. I began writing many years ago because I didn't see people of color as main characters in literature. I wanted to change this. I had a wonderful father, a loving family, a great husband, but I didn't see "us" on the pages of books I was reading. I wanted to show the world that black people have honor, integrity, intelligence, and love in abundance.
After 40 plus books, I receive mail from all over the world. In reading my books people come to know and understand what motivates people of color and learn that we're no different that any one else. We love and want the best for our family and children.
Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence- Francis Ray: My writing offers the legacy to future readers to learn that, as a race, African-American have contributed much to society, and continue to do so. In my book they'll find strong family values and men who stand up for women, their family and their country.
Ella: Introduce us to your book One Night with You. Francis Ray: ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, is Book # 3 in the Grayson Friends Series. Duncan McBride is a successful Montana rancher, who, after a disastrous marriage, stopped believing that there was a woman out there who could love him and his sprawling ranch past the first, hard winter with six feet of snow. When Raven LaBlanc, a stunning archaeologist, shows up at his ranch to authenticate primitive cave drawings on his property, Duncan wants her gone. He doesn't want to feel the attraction to a woman he knows has no intention of staying. As for Raven, her main reason in going to Duncan's ranch was coming one step closer to tenure at St. Johns' College in Santa Fe. She wants permanence in life. Her attraction to Duncan, a hard, but good man, is totally unexpected and unwanted.
Each has to learn to trust their heart and accept that there are honorable men and women in the world. It won't be easy, because both have been betrayed in the worst possible way. But as Duncan and Raven are thrown together more and more on the working ranch, they see the good in the other, and the faith that they had lost in the opposite sex begins to be rebuilt. But an unseen force is determined to keep them apart. Their fragile love will be tested to the limits.
Ella: Introduce us to your message and the main characters. Francis Ray: I hope you'll enjoy ONE NIGHT WITH YOU. Duncan and Raven, two people who didn't expect love. They would like for you to know that, like them, love sometimes happens when you lease expect it. Always keep your heart open.
Ella: What issues in today's society have you addressed in the book? Francis Ray: In Montana, as in many states, there are fewer and fewer ranches. The land is being sold off to developers, the young people leaving for the city. In ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, Duncan is exactly where he wants to be. He resists selling one inch to a developer. The land is his legacy that he intends to leave to his niece or nephew since he never plans to marry. He is aware that his life is hard, the land unforgiving, that predators roam the land, but he relishes and looks forward each day to living in a country blessed by God.
Ella: How difficult was it to complete the novel? Francis Ray: The book was very difficult to write, but it was also a pleasure. I had to do extensive research on ranching in Montana, the livestock, the land and predators. There was even the birth of a colt. Perhaps the most challenging aspect of writing the book was the authenticating of the primitive drawings on Duncan's ranch. I have a notebook of symbols, what they mean, how they were drawn and by whom. The Ancient Ones followed the water and mountain rims for food and game. They left behind an indelible print of their lives centuries before.
Join Loretta "Faith" Harris, M.Ed. on a virtualbook tour…
EDC Creations announces the official virtual book tour of Loretta "Faith" Harris, M.Ed., the critically-acclaimed author of The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph. From Monday, October 19-Sunday, October 26, follow Loretta on an interesting journey all over the Internet from the comfort of your home. This virtual book tour is brought to you by EDC Creations Media Group. To learn more about Loretta, visit her media center at:
http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/lorettaharris.htm
The Journey Less Traveled Book Introduction
(ISBN-10: 0978668154)
The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph highlights Loretta's bout with death, grief, depression, anger and countless experiences, which she encountered after her tragic car accident on May 24, 2006. At some point in this life's journey, you will come face to face with tragedy. Enduring the hardship, while holding true to your faith and the promises of God are key components in your victory over any adverse situation. Readers of all ages, cultures, and experiences will relate to one woman's choice to triumph over her tragedy. This book has the potential to transform lives!
The Journey Less Traveled is an inspiring, uplifting account of an indomitable spirit, as well as a striking testament to the sheer power of human will. Readers will surely be enlightened by this compelling tale of someone who was thrust into the darkest recesses of earthly suffering and overcame it all with the force of a true spiritual soldier. The greatest lesson offered in the pages of this moving memoir is that no matter how difficult events in your life may seem, always know that someone else has not only suffered worse, but overcame it all - so nothing is stopping you from doing the same.
Meet Loretta author of, The Journey Less Traveled Loretta “Faith” Harris is a prolific speaker, entrepreneur, author, and humanitarian. Loretta is the presiding President and Founder of C.H. Publishing. This exceptional educator possesses the ability to cultivate the gifts and talents within her young adult scholars. Loretta currently resides in Orlando, Florida where she is dedicated to the completion of her doctorate degree in education at Nova Southeastern University.
The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers 5 stars As I sat reading THE JOURNEY LESS TRAVELED, the true-life account of author, Loretta "Faith" Harris, I was moved to tears. The character and "faith" that is displayed in her story is truly amazing. She takes us on a rollercoaster journey that moves us from her near death experience, into her recovery and finally to her total victory! However, that's not all; she shares with us how to take our tragedies, turn them into triumphs and inspire others along the way.
I must also note that if her story alone wasn't more than noteworthy in itself, her continued dedication to her commitment as a teacher and educator were awe inspiring. Make sure to check out her seven steps to developing a conquerors mentality as well. All I can say is Bravo AND Praise God for this inspiring author AND educator! --- Reviewed by Jacqueline Moore for the RAWSISTAZ Reviewers
OOSA Online Book Club Review 5 stars In "The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph" by Loretta L. Harris she poignantly details tragedy and triumph after being involved in a major car accident with two of her students. An emotional rollercoaster ride, readers plunge into depression and suffering and experience the highs of recovery and triumph.
"The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph" is a powerful and excellent read. This book gave me a reality check. It made me look at all the things that are going on in my life and realize how grateful I should be. Had I experienced what Ms. Harris went through, I honestly don't think that I would have had the will power that she had. For those people that are not sure if there is a God or not, they need to read this book, because his power is felt in every page. I would recommend this book to anyone, especially someone going through a hard time in their life and they just don't see how they can make it. ---
Reviewed by Marcella for OOSA Online Book Club
Contact Loretta "Faith" Harris, M.Ed. Children’s Heart Publishing, CCR certified
Author of, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph”
So, how do you pick up the pieces after the winds and waves of life has apparently knocked you so far to the ground that it seems nearly impossible to recover? What I am about to say may sound like a cliché, but it’s not. You are out for the count and there is no HELP in sight!
Tell you what, TRUST GOD!
Ha, “Trust God” she says. “Where was God when I needed Him the most? How can I trust a God that would allow such devastation to occur in my life?” I know that some of you may be feeling like this and you DEMAND answers. Listen to me, because I was there. I struggled to understand the ways of God. I asked the resounding question, “Why do bad things happen to good people.” Honestly, after surveying God and throwing my fist up towards the Heavens, I finally asked myself, “What’s so good about me?” If this trial did not occur in my life, it definitely would have occurred in someone else’s life. What makes it wrong because it happened to me and not the next man?
It’s easy to stand on the sidelines gazing into the life of that person on the news, but what happens when it’s your turn to have the “spectators” and “naysayers” hover over you awaiting your next move. It is during these unexplainable moments my friend when you MUST trust God. He has already ordained your TRIUMPANT comeback! He is carrying you through the fight of your life!
You are listening to someone who the doctors gave up on and left to die. I am the one that they said, “She won’t make it.” Death came for my soul and I was no match, BUT GOD! He delivered me and much more than that, brought me back better than before! I am here to encourage and uplift those who feel like giving up. Please, DO NOT throw in the towel! God is not finished with you yet! Your moment of TRIUMPH is sooner than you think!
The writer of James says it best, “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So do not try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way” (James 1:2-4, MSG). So when you are involved in a head-on collision with misfortune, know that you are predestined to OVERCOME. It is a fixed fight!
Loretta "Faith" Harris, M.Ed. Children’s Heart Publishing, CCR certified
Author of, “The Journey Less Traveled: Choose to Turn Your Tragedy into Triumph”
Award-winning author Kimberley White resides in metropolitan Detroit. She’s a nurse practitioner currently pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice. She uses her twenty years of nursing experience to address topics such as domestic violence, hypertension and sexual harassment in an entertaining and informative manner. Ms. White speaks at writing conferences and has taught writing courses at several Michigan colleges.
Kimberley White resides in metropolitan Detroit where she is a nurse practitioner during the day and a writer of steamy romances at night. Visit her website at http://www.kwhitewrite.com/ Email: kwhite_writer@hotmail.com
Ms. White’s novels and awards include: :: Sweet Tomorrows (Genesis Press, April 2001)
:: Dream Jobs To Go: Romance Writing (Intellectua ebooks, June 2001)
:: Lujon 1 (Best Black Women’s Erotica, Volume II. Cleis, February 2003)
:: Acquisitions (Genesis Press, May 2003)
:: Only In My Dreams (BET/Arabesque, May 2003)—Nominee, Best Romance of the Year
:: Tango (BET/Arabesque, November 2003)
:: Hard to Love (June 2004)
:: Forever After (BET/Arabesque, July 2004)—Winner, Steamiest Romance Book
:: Conquering Dr. Wexler’s Heart (Genesis Press, NOV 2004)
:: To Love A Ballantyne (BET/Arabesque, 2005)
:: Sweet Repercussions (BET/Arabesque, 2005)
:: You Never Know (BET/Kimani Press, 2006)
:: Ballantyne’s Destiny (BET/Kimani Press, 2006)
:: All the Way (Dafina, 2008)
:: I Need More (Dafina, 2009)
Community Discussion Questions Please read Kimberley White's book excerpts and answer the following questions in this forum. Two commentors will be randomly selected to obtain a review copy of Kimberley White latest book. Leave your email addresses with comments here to enter drawing. All winners will be announced on the Black Pearls Magazine at Facebook on November 27, 2009, during Black Books Weekends with Ella.
1. Why are we willing to sacrifice what’s truly important in life—love, family, health & safety—for fame and money?
2. Role reversal: are men now marrying for money?
3. Are African-American men really portrayed badly in the literature?
4. Are female characters relatable? (Physically? Use of foul language and slang?)
5. Why would an author lose their voice in their own books?
She Has Everything She Wants. . . Dr. Erika Johnson's life couldn't get any better. Her practice is flourishing and her hunk of a husband Brock can't keep his hands off her--until the day he suddenly leaves her without a word of explanation. Stunned, Erika has no choice but to cobble together a new life on her own. When she serves Brock with divorce papers, Erika is certain he'll sign them so they can both move on. But that's when the surprises really begin. . .
Except The Man She Loves... Brock is sure he did the right thing. All he ever wanted was to bring joy into Erika's life, not pain and sorrow. But when rumors reach him that Erika is seeing another man, he's torn between what he thinks is right and what he feels is right. Despite everything, there's no denying the fierce attraction she and Brock have always shared is burning hotter than ever. And when Erika finally learns Brock's secret, they must decide if they will face the uncertain future together-or apart. . . ISBN-13: 9780758222107; ISBN 10: 0758222106 Buy the book, I Need More by Kimberley White, today!
As manager of the hot nightclub Skye, Payton Vaughn thinks she’s seen it all…until the night she witnesses a cold blooded murder. The police can’t protect her from a psychopathetic killer with sexually sadistic fantasies of how to keep her quiet, so she runs…All the Way…Into the arms of Adriano Norwood, a man who’s happy to see the story of his career wrapped in the perfectly angelic body of a woman he’ll soon want to protect with his own life. He’d sacrifice his happiness and let her go before he’ll put her in danger again…Unless they find a way to have it all. ISBN-10: 0758222106; ISBN-13: 978-0758222107 Buy the book, All The Way by Kimberley White, today!
Cancer and diet have long been linked, both in myth and in fact. Some studies influence people to believe that changing their diet will change their chances of getting cancer. Other studies claim that an alteration in ones diet will lead to the elimination of cancer altogether. But, overall meta-research shows that cancer and diet may be linked, but that does not mean that one is caused by the other.
Let's be honest here - there is no diet that can cure cancer. Anyone who tells you so is foolish. It would be a wonderful world indeed if the addition of one simple food item would make the world cancer-free, but that isn't the case. There are also no foods that will prevent cancer - in other words, by adding to your diet, you will never get cancer. That simply is not true.
The good news is that there are some dietary additions that can reduce the risk of cancer, the chance of a cancer coming back, and the type or level of cancer you do get. A diet that is rich in particular food items can make you healthier.
Numerous studies regarding cancer and diet have been undertaken over the past few decades. Cornell University found that there was a correlation between the rates of death and survival length (of almost a decade) in patients who had made changes to their diet.
Another study followed several thousand breast cancer victims over a period of more than a decade. More than half the patients had cancer that had metastasized (spread to other parts of their body). In these cases, only one in five survived more than five years. For patients without metastasized cancer, more than eight in ten survived long-term.
In this study, the patient groups were differentiated by the types of food they ate. One group ate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, and the other group did not do this. The omega-3 group experienced a lower rate of death. This, of course, does not mean that fish prevents cancer, but it does point to some sort of correlation between something found in fish and poultry and the likelihood of surviving cancer.
Another survey of 2400 people was conducted by the National Cancer Institute. 33% of these were women with breast cancer and who consumed a diet that was low in fat. Over a period of five years, their rate of cancer recurring dropped by almost a half.
These studies are useful, however they are not conclusive. They often show that there is a link between diet and cancer, but there is no proof of one being caused by the other. Some people believe that this data is pure rubbish, others believe it points to science that we just don't know about yet. One thing is clear, though, almost everyone believes that an overall healthier diet and lifestyle changes will lead to a lower risk of cancer-related death.
Some research has been undertaken that includes the addition of vegetables and fruits, and their link to cancer. It seems that again there is a link between this type of diet and a cancer-free life, but the reason is unclear. Fruits and vegetables contain a lot of antioxidants which are known to attack the free radicals that go through all of our blood streams. These free radicals are potentially cancer-causing, and the addition of antioxidants somehow neutralizes them. But if that is the reason why a diet of healthful fruit and vegetables is somehow linked to a lack of cancer, is unknown.
Fat is also considered, by many, a contributor to cancer-related deaths. Some people insist that by reducing the fat which is stored in estrogen, cancer chances will be reduced. This insistence can not be true because fat is not a direct link to cancer. If it were, anyone who was obese would also be ridden for cancer. Alternatively, anyone who ate a diet high in fat would be cancer-ridden as well.
There is plenty of evidence that shows that if you are looking to live a life that is free of cancer, you should eat a diet that is healthy. There is no doubt about that. Some of the most important ways to change your life for the better is to pay attention to your diet and lifestyle and improve your health overall. Almost one in ten women will get breast cancer in their lives and by improving women's lifestyles, hopefully that number will be reduced.
Black Books Weekend will open Black Friday, November 27, 2009 with live readings from 50 of the most talented writers on the shelves. Black Books Weekend, hosted by Ella Curry of EDC Creations features 4 nights of readings and discussions with noted authors, bookclubs and poets. Our mission is to get folks to buy great books for gifts this holiday season, from our featured publishers and imprints.
November 27-30, 2009 this totally online festival will present a full authors showcase with live readings, a bookclub panel discussion, and poetry showcase, as we party in the spirit of Sankofa, celebrating our heritage, culture and talents! Join us from the comfort of your home, bring in your friends, make an event of it and chat with today's hottest authors! All the fun is at Black Authors Network Radio (BAN)
www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network
For more information, email Ella Curry at: edc_dg@yahoo.com Bookclubs, we have over 200 books that will be given away as REVIEW copies during the showcase. The Black Pearls Grand Prize gift bag, for the weekend, includes 15 of our finest Black Pearls books, a handmade doll from Sister Inc., book thongs, bookmarks, CDs by poet Marc Lacy, EDC Creations 2010 book calendar, EDC Creations totebag and Godiva Chocolates! Value of gift bag $450.00.
Contributors: Francis Ray, Pat G'Orge Walker, Lynne Forde, Pamela Samuels Young, Electa Rome Parks, Sherryle K. Jackson, Xpress Yourself Publishing, Life Changing Books, Triple Crown Publications, Kimani Romance, Genesis Press (Romance titles) Hachette Book Group USA, 6 Indie Publishers, Simply Said Reading Accessories and Audrey Bell-Kearney owner of Sister Inc. Dolls.
Dynamic personal interaction between readers and authors will be the hightlight of the 4 evenings. Don’t miss the latest literary buzz! Read our blog here for the list of books in the goody-room and the schedule of events. Callers are welcome to join us on the phones each night at: 646.200.0402. Please repost and blog about this awesome event. Book lovers this is a readers paradise! You will hear several excerpts from books that are NOT on the shelves yet. There will be opportunities for registered BlogTalk Radio users to win books, prizes and the huge Black Pearls Grand Prize gift bag!
Friday, November 27, 2009 ----------------Freaky Friday; Erotica and Urban Lit
Friday, November 27, 2009 ----------------Freaky Friday; Gay Lit and Erotic Poetry
Saturday, November 28, 2009 ------------- Saturday; Romance and Thrillers
Sunday, November 29, 2009 -------------- Spirit-filled Sunday; Christian Fiction; Faith-base
Monday, November 30, 2009 ------------- Motivational Monday; Non-fiction; Children/Teen
Monday, November 30, 2009 ------------- Relationships; Finance; Self-help; Memoirs
Carbon Copy by Azarel Have you ever craved someone so bad…that you’d be willing to do anything?
Meet Dominique Lewis, a foul, hard-boiled, go-getter who spends most of her days yearning to be just like her sister, and plotting on taking her man. For her, it’s all about money, sex, and power. Although she possesses the perfect physique and sexy features, her life-long dream is to become wealthy and a house-hold name. By any means necessary, she vows to get what she wants.
As Dominique’s mission unfolds, she manages to get connected to Yuri, a violent replacement for the man she really sought. After realizing she’s partnered with a beast, her world turns upside down. And soon, after the tragic murder of her sister, all hell breaks loose when Dominique’s cover is blown.
Armed with revenge on the brain, and a status goal in mind, Dominique soon appoints herself as Rapheal’s woman, the most sought after millionaire in Atlanta. Raphael’s lavish status in town would put her on a new level, right where she always dreamed…the only problem …he never said he wanted her. In an effort to hold on to Rapheal, and all the elaborate material possessions, Dominique sets out on a deadly mission to remove anything that stands in her way.
In The Land of Cotton by Martha A. Taylor Have you ever wondered what were the children doing during the Civil Rights movement in the 50s and 60s? What were the people who weren't actively protesting or participating in racism doing? Author Martha A. Taylor recently published a book that answers these questions!
Martha tells her childhood story, in her book In The Land of Cotton, as a young white girl who has a memorable relationship with a spirit filled black family. Martha meets a very poor family, the Boyds, and her life changes as she falls in love with one of the young members of the Boyd family, Silas. The Boyd family is trapped in time; Martha comes from a middle-class white family who is not actively taking part in harassing black people. The story is spectacular and filled with historical revelations. For more details, read the material below to fully grasp the importance and relevance of this book, at this time. If you liked the movie and book, The Secret Life of Bees, you will truly love this new book!
Author Martha A. Taylor has published her first book! Let's give her a hand for stepping up to the plate and telling her story. She's one brave woman to have done all the things she reveals in her new book!
Intro: In the Land of Cotton by Martha A. Taylor
SLAVERY IS MORE THAN CHAINS AND SHACKLES
SLAVERY IS A STATE OF MIND
Immerse yourself in this highly anticipated political docu-drama set in the Deep South amidst the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement.
Martha was a young white girl living in the Deep South, inundated with the racist sentiments of the times. But Martha's natural curiosity and generous heart led her to question this racial divide. When she discovered a poor Negro family, the Boyds, living deep in the woods near her house, everyone's life changed forever. She meets Silas, a little black boy and falls in love. The Boyd family "adopts" her as one of their own and the saga begins....
Take the journey of a lifetime alongside Martha as she forges relationships that lead to self discovery and a clearer understanding of the world around her. In the Land of Cotton provides an outstanding snapshot of life in the South during those troubled times - a snapshot everyone should take a close look at, regardless of era or color. The year was 1956. (Book info: ISBN-10: 1432734717; ISBN-13: 978-1432734718)
Praise for In the Land of Cotton by Martha A. Taylor
Racism from the perspective of an innocent white girl who learns firsthand how absurd it is. Book Review by cashbacher@yahoo.com (TOP 50 REVIEWER, Amazon)
The innocence of youth is a beautiful thing, it is refreshing to witness and gives the world so much, except when it is a young white girl being exposed to a poor black family in the southern United States in the 1950's. In that context, it could have meant the death of some of the participants.
Martha was a young white girl who bonded with her black maid when her parents were generally absent. Her natural curiosity and openness led her to an enclave of an extended black family living in primitive conditions. Martha was quickly "adopted" by the family, as they allowed her to be a part of their activities and she responded in kind. Martha's parents were racist and she maintained her relationship with the black group in secret for many years and even over great distances.
Martha also fell in love with Silas, first a playmate from the black family, then a companion and eventually a fiance. Silas was extremely intelligent and handsome and when he was old enough, he went off to school in Chicago and then joined the military, becoming a helicopter pilot flying rescue missions in Vietnam. Silas is seriously injured and Martha rushes to his bedside to take care of him.
One simple, yet significant scene is when a white soldier in the hospital wing with Silas objects to the black-white relationship. Another white soldier immediately responds, telling the white soldier, "That man saved my life, he can have whatever girlfriend he wants." The history of the civil rights movement, from the Rosa Parks refusal through the assassination of Martin Luther King is chronicled and placed in context.
Therefore, the story has two significant and complex tracks. The story of two people who grow to love each other within the bounds of a truly extended "family" and the broader context of the segregation of the south and how it was finally and thankfully forever broken. Given that the names of the title character and the author are identical, it seems clear that the book is an autobiography, which increases the power of the depiction of the events.
The Black-Print: Black America's Blueprint for Achieving Wealth, Prosperity and Respect
by Malik Green (Author)
Over the last 50 years African Americans have heard many speeches, read many books, and attended the marches and protest rallies; however, the descendants of African slaves are as dysfunctional as ever. Our people and our communities are suffering more and more from black-on-black crime, drug abuse, violent gangs, illiteracy, high drop-out rate, low college entry rate, lack of spiritual development and a host of other maladies that contribute to the continued marginalization of the African American.
The Black-print is a book with a bold and comprehensive plan that promises to empower the descendants of African slaves to control their own destiny. This book gets to the heart of the many problems African Americans face; and provides unique and radical solutions to these problems.
The concepts and strategies of the "Black-print" focused towards uplifting African Americans to a level of success that is unprecedented in these United States. The Black-print intends to remove the tarnish and stigma that has been a burden to the descendants of African slaves for hundreds of years. The Black-prints aspires to reveal the beauty, dignity and power of a once great and mighty people.
About the Black-print: Chapter one is the introduction to the Black-print.
Chapter Two of the Black-print reveals the real driving force behind, and the perpetuation of the enslavement of the African. It also reveals, why to this day, the descendants of African slaves, especially African American males, are systematically disenfranchised.
Chapter Three deals with what I believe are the five major entities or institutions that lay obstacles to our path towards wealth, prosperity and respect. These entities and institutions have always made claims of being our ally; however, the Black-print exposed them for what they truly are; impediments to the progress of African Americans and the communities they live in.
Chapter Four is the actual blueprint. It breaks down each entity or institution and the obstacles it presents. It then proceeds to provide creative and effective solutions for overcoming these destructive forces that prey on the descendants of African slaves.
Chapter Five is a challenge to African Americans to test drive the Black-print and the solutions and strategies it suggest. The Black-print is a massive undertaking. That is why I am suggesting that we test-drive the blueprint in one of the most recognized African Communities in America, Harlem, U.S.A. This chapter offers us an opportunity to set a standard of how any African American community can be revitalized, rejuvenated, united and prosperous.
The reality is: Black men and women will never be respected in America as individuals, until we are respected as a people.
Malik Green was born in Harlem and was raised on the Lower East Side of New York City. His father left before his first birthday, and he had to learn many things "the hard way." He dropped out of high school at 17 and with nowhere to go, joined the Army. He came back to New York after a five year tour and ended up addicted to crack cocaine for two years. He was able to free himself permanently from that menacing addiction and began to pursue his original goal in life: to make sense of why African Americans are in the predicament they are in today. With his belief that being African was a good thing and with his admiration for Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X -- both of whom epitomized what Malik believed African American men could be: independent, strong, intelligent, fearless men -- he discovered truths that bring forth an understanding of what is lacking in the African American community today.
Hi, the Sisters Sippin Tea BOOKS AND BRUNCH is this coming Saturday. Click on the link below to see our authors. See SST BOOKS N BRUNCH SAT Oct.10, 2009 online.
Join us for a sensual night of hot music, colorful cocktails, light fare, networking and fantastic book previews. Each guest receives a holiday gift bag of treats and a featured book. Hosted by EDC Creations
Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 7:00-1:00am EST
Embassy Suites Washington D.C.
900 10th Street NW, Washington,DC, 20001
Adults Only! Fiction Author Showcase
Special Holiday Giveaway: $250.00 wrapped box of books!
Activities:
One lucky party-goer will win the $250.00 Holiday Giveaway!
7-8pm Bookclub Mix and Mingle
8-10pm Meet the Authors; Readings; Games
10-12pm Booksigning and Dancing; Gift bag giveaway
The become a part of the holiday showcase is simple:
1. Pay the $18.00 for the ticket here 2. Invite all your friends and network
3. Attend the event with at least 25-50 books and your promotional material
4. Post the event in all your social networks and ask others to re-post
I am asking each author to donate one signed book to our gift bags. The gift bags will be given to the readers who attend the event. You will give away 1 book, in hopes of selling many more that night. Link to pay for tickets: http://bpholidayparty.eventbrite.com
Saturday, December 19, 2009 at 7:00-1:00am ESTEmbassy Suites Washington D.C.
900 10th Street NW, Washington, DC,20001
Local East Coast Author Appreciation
Attire: Your Sunday best; Music: Holiday, R&B and Jazz; Fiction books only
Entertainment: Authors Reading; Bookclub's Greatest Holiday Memories
Refreshments: Light holiday fare, dessert, alcohol based cocktails and sodas
Authors will have an opportunity to read from the book, then sell the books in the last 3 hours of the event. Promotional material can be added to the gift bags as well. Please no large signs, bags, posters or other promotional items. YOU will personal showcase your book to the reader! Your passion and message will be the focus of the evening.
Mailing Address for book donations:Ella Curry, EDC Creations
PO Box 7794
Langley Park, MD 20787
Warmest regards,
Ella Curry, President of EDC Creations Media
Black Authors Network Radio-Founder
Black Pearls Magazine -Founder
Website: www.edc-creations.com
:: How important is reading to you?
Communicating in some way, talking, reading, writing, it is like breathing to me. It calms me down and soothes me, no matter what the content.
:: On your nightstand now: Not trying to plug, but I just finished Unexpected Interruptions by Trice Hickman. I heard about it on one of your book tours.
:: Book you've bought for the cover: Joel Osteen’s first book, he was smiling so hard I had to know what he was up to.
:: Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
Loved Dewey, the cat that lived in a library. (true story)
:: Your top three authors. Why?
E. Lynn Harris, loved his books- great twists and plot turns.
Terry McMillian – she makes it look easy (to write) and is easy to read.
Jackie Collins – older books were better, great entertainment.
:: Share your news or events with us.
What's next for me? My book; HIRE POWER How to Find, Get, and Keep a Job is coming out later this year. It is a how to book for teens on finding their first job.
Readers and Bookclub Friends, Spread the word about these Black Pearls...Give the Gift of Knowledge. Discover great books at Black Pearls Magazine and Black Authors Network Radio Talk Show, read about the exciting authors, enter drawings, find other book club members, explore our reader’s guides, share our excerpts of new releases and more. Books are a blessing when you can learn and grow from what you read. I hope that you find many books to add great value in your life.
To learn more about our team, visit our parent company at EDC Creations online. If you wish to showcase your book or business in our online magazine or newsletter, please email Ella with your requests. Every page is available for you! You may check out the EDC Creations Book Promotion are here.
Spread the word, share this newsletter with 15 friends and co-workers. Do you want to keep up with the hottest books on the market, visit the EDC Creations' Network Center!
Do you want to see your event, book, business or bookclub listed here, email Ella to get the best exposure today: elladcurry@edc-creations.comBrought to you by Ella Curry and EDC Creations. Ella is the owner of the Sankofa Literary Society and The Black Authors Network Radio Show. Please visit our site and explore all we have to offer.
Walk away with Review Copies of Books from our chat room nightly! Must be a registered BTR user to enter the chatroom and speak to Ella. We want readers to preview the books, share their reviews online and tell at least 10 people about BAN Radio and the marvelous authors you met.
