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Body Image, Health, and
Fitness
What’s It Really All About? by Trice Hickman
Body image.
It’s an issue that most women struggle with at some point in our lives—I know I certainly have, and still do. During my 20’s everything was perky and tight. I ate whatever I wanted and I still looked pretty good. When I entered my 30’s I began to notice subtle changes. Things weren’t as they had been a decade before, but, it was still all good! When I slid into my 40’s reality started kicking in, my metabolism slowed down, and I found myself wondering what had happened to my body. Even shopping, one of my favorite pastimes, became challenging.
*Cautionary Note*: There is nothing more sobering than taking your clothes off in a department store dressing room and looking at your half-naked self under the glare of those ultra bright lights. As we age, we gain things we didn’t have before, and lose things we wish we could hold on to.
I don’t know a woman alive who thinks, “My body is great just the way it is!”
I’m sure such women exist, and that they are actually inhabiting this planet (well-adjusted aliens living among us, disguised as humans)…just kidding…a little! If I conducted a poll and asked the average woman to name one thing she’d like to change about her body, I guarantee she could come up with at least three different things off the top of her head. Some want thinner thighs, smaller waistlines, slimmer hips, and firmer everything! And on the flip side, some long for larger thighs, rounder behinds…and yes, firmer everything! Whether we’re big or small we fantasize about having the perfect bikini body. But let’s face it, even the svelte swim suit models gracing the fashion magazines are airbrushed to death, so what’s it really all about?...I believe it all starts with good self-esteem combined with good health and fitness habits.
Our society has become obsessed with beauty over substance. We live in an age of mid-drift bearing, booty-shakin’, breast implant having, show-what-you-got, in-your-face boldness. The unrealistic standards of beauty and body size thrust in front of us by way of magazines and music videos can make the average woman feel inadequate…and I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve been guilty of succumbing to the hype.
I’ve often bemoaned and criticized my wide hips, thick thighs, and big legs. But slowly, and I mean very slowly, I’m learning to appreciate my curvy, grown woman shape. The other day I stood in front of the mirror, naked as the day I came into this world, and studied my body closely. Every inch of it. I closed my eyes, then opened them again. I spoke affirming words to the woman staring back at me. I embraced my taunt, smooth, skin that protects my body, and I thanked my big legs for allowing me to walk everywhere I need to go. I’m truly thankful for both. And even though I didn’t get around to praising my wide hips or thick thighs, I know I’ll get there soon, and when I do I will appreciate them, regardless of their size. This whole thing is a process—and it’s called acceptance. Loving who you are is a necessary exercise. Both the mind and body must be treated with reverence and care.
It’s important to be healthy, no matter your body size. There are thin women who are grossly out of shape and haven’t an ounce of cardio endurance, while there are overweight women who are fit and can run circles around their thinner counterparts. As I’ve gotten older, I realize how much more important it is to feel good than to look good (but for the record, I do like to look good, too!). I’ve also learned that educating yourself about proper diet and exercise, and incorporating both into your daily lifestyle is essential at any age. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, drinking plenty of water, and moving your body in some sort of aerobic activity for at least 30 minutes a day can make all the difference in the world. When we do good things for our bodies we get great result. And when we love what’s on the inside, that’s an unbeatable feeling!
So tell me, how do you feel about your body and what issues are you struggling with, if any? What are some of the things you’re doing to stay fit and healthy? Let me know and share some of the health and nutrition tips that have worked for you?
Seriously, email me, I want to chat about
this with you.
Let’s Talk About SEX….
When women think about their physical health, I’m not sure that most think about their sexual health, which is just as important to one’s overall well-being. Sex is good for you! Indulging on a regular basis, at least twice a week, is even better. Research links sex to an array of physiological benefits, from longevity to pain relief. Many studies don't address whether the health bonus comes from the act itself or from the corresponding emotional intimacy, but the bottom line is that getting physical has some great side effects—especially for women, that include; less frequent colds and flu, reduced depression, increased energy levels, weight loss, and overall improved fitness.
Yes, sex is an important part of life, physically and emotionally. Here is some information and tips that can help you get the most out your sex life. Oh, and one very important thing...always practice safe sex!
Sex with your partner
It’s important to communicate your sexual needs to your partner. Be gentle, but direct. Remember that sex occurs between the ears, not the legs. Tell your partner what you want and how you like it, then be willing to give the same in return. And ladies, please, please don’t fake an orgasm! It’s non-productive and counter intuitive to the mission at hand. All that panting and moaning will get you nowhere because the next time you’re making love he’ll do the exact same thing (that you really don’t like), believing he’s hit your sweet spot when he has actually struck out at the mound. Moan when it feels good, and when it doesn’t, gently instruct him by guiding his hands to where you want them to be. But don’t make him do all the work either. Lift your hips to meet his thrusts, or straddle him (this is an optimal position for women) and rock back and forth on top of him so that your vagina and clitoris receive stimulation at the same time. You’ll both appreciate the pleasure of giving and receiving.
Make it relaxing
Have your partner give you a yoni massage (the best massage ever!). Yoni is the Sanskrit word for vagina and is loosely translated as “sacred space” or “sacred temple”. This vaginal massage should be performed in a slow, deliberate, and controlled manner. It is intended to relax and pleasure both the giver and the receiver. Okay, I’m going to get detailed so you’ll know exactly what this massage entails and how to do it properly....Start with scented or edible oils and have your partner pour a small amount on the mound of your yoni, just enough so that it drips down the outer lips and covers the outside of your vagina. He should gently squeeze your well lubricated outer lips between his thumb and index finger, sliding up and down the entire length of each lip, then do the same to the inner lips. Next, he should insert his middle finger into the center of your yoni, massaging in a counter clockwise position, starting at twelve o’clock, shifting over to nine o’clock, gently easing down to six, then moving on to the three o’clock position.
Once there, he should slowly straighten out his finger, repositioning it as he works back up to the twelve o’clock position. Make sure he takes his time. During the massage you should look into each other's eyes as much as possible, as this connects you and intensifies the pleasure. Once you’ve been sufficiently relaxed give him a lingam massage. Lingam is the Sanskrit word for penis, and is loosely translated as “wand of light”. Again, use scented or edible oil and gently massage his testicles and the area above the penis, on the pubic bone. Also, massage the area between the testicles and anus. The thumb or index finger work well for this type of stimulation. Move on to the shaft and the head, and ladies, take your time with this. Vary your speed and pressure, gently squeezing the penis at the base with your well-oiled hand as you carefully pull up and slide off. Repeat this move several times, using the same gentleness as if you were messaging your own flesh. By the time you two are finished rubbing and touching you’ll be ready for just about anything!
Make it fun
Spice up your lovemaking by asking your partner about their deepest fantasies, then act them out together. Throw your inhibitions out the window and get your freak on! Nothing between two consenting adults is taboo, so relax and enjoy oral, anal, and everything in between. Explore new positions that you haven’t tried before. Experiment with toys and use them on each other. Be spontaneous, sex shouldn’t be relegated to just the bedroom. Try different rooms in the house, or discreet places away from home. Take showers/bubble baths together and lather each other up for a good scrubbing! Role play (again, this can be one of your sexual fantasies).
Take care of you
If you’ve hit a dry spot and don’t have a partner, or if your partner can’t seem to hit your spot, step up and do it yourself! Yes, ladies, that means masturbate. Familiarize yourself with your vagina. Hold a mirror between your legs and take a nice long look. Explore your depths, search with your fingers and find your magic spot. You can give yourself vaginal or clitoral orgasms every time if you know what you’re doing. Get to know your body! Try dildos and vibrators and see which one works best for you…wondering what’s the difference between the two? Let’s break it down: Dildos are phallic shaped non-vibrating sex toys that are inserted into the vagina for sexual pleasure. Vibrators have a greater variety of shapes and sizes and are battery operated. Some can be inserted, but generally, they are used for external stimulation (often of the clitoris). Massage your breasts, thighs, hips and abdomen. Give yourself pleasure and fulfill your own needs. Handle your business and take care of you!
All women should take the time to really get to know their bodies so they can attend to their sexual needs. Do you have tips or ideas for good sexual health that you’d like to share? Please let me know?
About the Author
Trice Hickman is an award winning, bestselling author of contemporary fiction. Her love of reading and words led her to become a writer. Determined to have her voice heard, Trice self-published three novels before signing a book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books), who will re-release her original works. Trice is currently writing her next novel, and in her spare time she enjoys cooking, reading, home improvement projects, and traveling.
Trice resides in Washington, DC. To learn more about Trice Hickman, her new releases and book events, visit her web site at
www.tricehickman.com.
The Meat-Loving Vegan
by Lutishia Lovely
If the above title sounds like an oxymoron, well, it is. But that title is my story and I’m sticking to it! Confusing, I know, but I think you might understand the phrase once you understand my journey.
I never ever set out to be vegan, or even thought it possible. I grew up in Kansas, cow country. My family often brought meat not by the pound but by the measurement: half a cow, a quarter cow, etc. Additionally, my grandparents owned a farm, so it was not unusual to see a pig being smoked in the smokehouse, a headless chicken running out its last breaths of life in the dusty driveway or body parts such as pig ears being pickled in a jar.
Meat was, and for my family still is a major part of the diet and during my growing up years was a huge part of mine as well.
My favorites included pork chops, bacon, smoked sausage, ground round and the cream of the meat crop…the barbequed rib. I’m not sure more than 48-hours ever went by without my having one of these carnivorous delights, and at that time, I’m not sure I thought I’d live if that happened!
And then, totally by accident, I discovered that when lessening my meat intake, my body applauded!
It was the mid-80s and I was practicing something learned from a former piano teacher: observing Lent.
This practice involves giving up something that you really love for forty days, something you love so much that it would be a sacrifice to do without. I gave up my go-to favorites: bacon and barbeque. After forty days, you can imagine that the first thing I did was buy a short-end of tender goodness, slathered with sauce. I dug in with gusto, but became nauseous before I became full. Thinking that I’d simply eaten too fast, I eventually (and unknowingly)
re-adapted my body to pork and went on about my life. Because giving these items up had been such a sacrifice, I repeated this decision the following year. But this time when the nausea hit, the light bulb flashed. My body is rejecting this food!
Almost immediately, I gave up two major meat groups: pork and beef. Of course this left all manner of fowl, fish and seafood so this change caused only a minor ripple in my lifestyle. But the change in my body was pronounced. I felt better, simple as that. About ten years later, chicken no longer served me and it went off the menu. I ate my last bite of fish or seafood in 2004 and since 2007 have been 80% vegan, eliminating almost all dairy from my diet.
So why would I call myself a meat-loving vegan? Okay, maybe that’s a stretch and a more accurate moniker would be “former meat-loving vegan.”
But the fact of the matter is, when I ate meat, I loved it. There are fond memories attached to its presence on the table, like being freshly caught from my grandmother’s catfish pond. But my body clearly showed me that when it came to my health, meat wasn’t what it needed. Ironically, I’ve also always loved vegetables, starches, beans and fruit so supplementing the loss wasn’t hard at all. And because of how great I felt, I determined that it, meat, wasn’t what I needed either.
Instead of living to eat, I began eating to live, and now occasionally satisfy those memorable meaty taste buds with an organic soy sausage patty or by topping a black bean burger with homemade barbeque sauce. But more often than not I am too busy enjoying my acquired tastes for fresh herbs, whole grains, well-seasoned vegetables, super foods such as cacao, goji berries and noni fruit, and culturally vegan dishes such as Indian or Greek, to pine for that which calls for loss of life to be on my plate.
And along the way I learned that not only could I go 48-hours without a slice of bacon or slab of ribs…I could go a lifetime.
I’m planning to make it a long one!
In future centuries, what about instead of hearing
“you’re as old as Methuselah,” in reference to age, people say “you’re as old as Lutishia!”
Now, that has a nice ring to it, which I’ll toast with a glass of kombucha!
About the Author
Lutishia Lovely is the award-winning, best-selling author of sixteen novels. The Business Trilogy, her latest work, combines two of her passions: writing and food. This series (All Up In My Business, Mind Your Own Business
and Taking Care Of Business) centers around the Livingstons, owners of a soul food dynasty called Taste Of Soul—where sizzling scandal and delicious drama are always on the menu. Find out more about this series and Lutishia at her website:
www.LutishiaLovely.com. And please sign up for her newsletter, where readers are treated to contests, updates, excerpts from upcoming novels, contests and
more!
Great Exercises + Less Time = Better Results
By Shaila Strayhorn
Great Exercises + Less Time = Better Results
7:00am- Wake up
7:30am-Shower and get dressed
8:00am- Wake up kids
8:15am- Make breakfast and lunches
8:40am-See kids to bus stop
9:00am-Head to work
12pm- Have lunch
5pm- Leave work
5:30pm- Pick up the kids from baseball and soccer practice
6:00pm- Cook dinner
6:30pm- Eat dinner
7:00pm- Help kids with homework
10pm- Try to get the kids in bed
11pm-Get me to bed
Start over next day
While this may not be your daily schedule, many of you can relate in one way or another to having to juggle several different things at once. Finally by the end of the day or after you have managed to get your children to sleep, all forms of energy have left your body. Not only has your energy decreased, but you realize that with each year that you and/or your children get older the less amount of time you have for yourself.
One survey conducted within Britain asked 3000 customers within a super market about their overall schedules. It was determined that working parents average about 90mins a day to themselves (however, I am sure that many of you may argue otherwise). With everything that a working mother and father have to do to keep their household in order, the last thing on their mind when having any kind of free time is going to the gym and working out.
Is it therefore possible to find a happy medium between being able to stay in shape without it interfering too much with your daily schedule? The answer is….YES! Here are a few exercises that you can do during your daily routine.
While at Work
•Inner Thigh- Place full water bottle, towel, or stress ball between thighs. While sitting up tall and keeping abs pulled in begin squeezing bottle, towel, or ball half way. Repeat for 15-20 reps
•Leg Extensions- While sitting in a chair lift one foot of the floor until it is level with your hip. Hold leg in this position for 20 seconds and then relax. Repeat with other leg
•Tricep Strength Training- Place hands on the edge of chair and walk your feet out until you are hovering one foot from the floor. Begin using your triceps to left your self up and down.
•Bicep/Tricep Curls- Use a five to ten pound dumbbell or a water bottle to do curl arm so hands are touching shoulders (also known as arm curls). Also with dumbbell or water bottle in hand, place arms over head and begin lifting dumbbell/water bottle above your head
•Chair Squats- Stand straight up, with feet the width of your chair. Slowly begin lowering your body until you are in squat position with hips hovering over your chair, hands on your hips, and knees at a 90 degree angle.
•Abdominals- Keep abs contracts for a period of 30 seconds as tight as you can and then release. Repeat this step.
Other ideas for staying in shape while in the work place include:
• Take the stairs instead of the elevator
• Park further away from your work place to increase your amount of walking
• Make sure to drink plenty of water and pack something health for lunch
• Use a pedometer or calorie counter to keep track of how many steps you take during the day as well as how many calories you burn. (Note: with the pedometer try to aim for 10,000 steps a day).
• Substitute your office chair for an exercise ball to reduce back pain and conduct exercises while at the computer.
When at Home
1. Calf Raises- Anytime you may spend standing on your feet be it to cook dinner, wait in line, ect. can be spent strengthening your calf muscles. Simply raise yourself up on the ball of your feet and then lower yourself back down. Try and see how many you can do in 1 min.
2. Leg Lifts- Lay on the floor on your side. Lift the leg you are not laying on so that it is level to your hip and lower it back down. Do about 20-30 reps on each leg
3. Old Fashion Crunches- Lay on your back and place feet on the floor. (Be sure there is no space between your back and the floor). Place hands behind head and lift your lower body with your abs.
4. Plank Positions- Lay on your stomach with your feet tucked under you and place your hands on the floor so they are directly below your shoulders. Lift yourself up so that your body is arms length from the floor. Make sure that your body is in a straight line and abs are contracted. Hold this position for 1 min.
5. Lunges- Standing straight up, place one foot out in front of you as far as you can go. Making sure that your back stays erect slowly lower yourself down so that the knee of the leg behind you is an inch from the floor. Raise yourself up and repeat sequence on the opposite leg. (This is exercise is also effective while holding dumbbells).
These exercise tips are not to say that you should not go to the gym. However when your schedule may not permit you to go to the gym, these tips can be an effective technique for muscle toning, strength training, increasing your energy and stress management. Be sure before engaging in any of these activities, consult with your physician first.
About the Author
Shaila Strayhorn is a current graduate student at The University of Michigan School of Public Health. She is pursuing a Master’s in Public Health with a concentration on general epidemiology. Her long time goal is to obtain her doctorate within the field of public health and lead research projects focused promoting public health with minority populations. Shaila is a Phi Beta Kappa and magnum cum lade graduate of the Spelman College. In her spare time she enjoys writing, exercising, and spending time with her family and friends.
Two Tears in a Bucket by Traci Bee
Betrayed by her cold, callous mother and abused by her alcoholic stepfather, eighteen-year-old Simone Woodard is kicked out of the house like a bag of trash and left to survive on her own. While struggling to create a life for herself, her beauty and innocence captivate Kevin Kennard, a handsome, hazel-eyed felon with an addiction to all things illegal.
For the first time in Kevin’s life, real love has him rethinking his criminal path. But the action on the streets won’t take a backseat to Simone. Who will win this tug of war?
Two Tears in a Bucket is a soulful novel that reminds us how powerful and lasting the bonds of love can be, even among the harsh realities of life.
VIDEO: Two Tears in a Bucket
Excerpt: Two Tears in a Bucket by Traci Bee
I promise you happiness if you ever grow sad, for I will move those clouds and shine for you even if you don’t want me to. If there are earthquakes of any kind, I promise to calm them. I promise to satisfy you in any way possible. I promise to lead you the days you want to follow and follow you the days you want to lead. I promise to be your strength when you’re
weak, and I promise never to let you go. And if I forgot to promise anything else, I promise that, too.
About the Author
After an impeccable, award winning career in real estate, Traci Bee decided it was time to acknowledge a yearning that had shadowed her from childhood. An avid reader and lover of creative writing, Traci decided it was time to pen the novel that had dwelled inside of her for over 20 years.
In September of 2007,
"Two Tears in a Bucket" was born. A compelling story of raw love amidst the harsh realities of urban life, the novel won Traci two awards. Excited about the novel's potential, Traci decided to take a vacation from the world of real estate to focus on promoting her novel. But life had other plans for Traci as a life altering storm brewed in her horizons.
Three years later, Traci's back and her passion remains unwavering.
She started King George Publishing, LLC - a publishing company named in honor of her daddy angel, George, and will be re-releasing
"Two Tears in a Bucket" this fall with more novels to follow.
Kevin Kennard gazed into the precious face of his newborn son, the offspring
of the intoxicating love he shared with his wife, Simone. Closing his
eyes, Kevin whispered a prayer of thanks. Life had given him a second
chance at happiness far greater than anything he'd fathomed from inside the
concrete walls of his prison cell. While Kevin and Simone bask in their
familial bliss, those scorned by their union collect the pieces to their
shattered hearts and plot the couple's demise.
Darkness hovers the Kennards when their newborn baby becomes
the target for revenge. A tidal wave of fatal events stifles the sanctity
Kevin and Simone have come to cherish. Kevin had promised those he loved
that his gun-toting days were a thing of the past. But with nothing else
to live for, he journeys to find the person responsible for the devastation
reeked in his world.
Someone will pay for what they've done to his family, even if
it cost Kevin his own life. In the award winning novel, "Two
Tears in a Bucket," Kevin and Simone reminded us how powerful and
lasting the bonds of love can be. But can it weather, Another Tear?
Meet the Author
Traci Bee is the
award-winning author of the Kindle drama chart topping, Two Tears in a Bucket.
When she’s not writing, Traci enjoys karaoke and spending time with her
family. She currently resides in Waldorf, Maryland with her husband and kids and
is working on two novels; the final installment to the Two Tears in a Bucket
Series and A Nickel for A Kiss.
Excerpt from
Another Tear by Traci Bee
Trapped in the darkness, Simone struggled to free herself. She hated when her
body became immobile but her mind remained fully conscious. Normally, when she
hallucinated in her sleep, her surroundings seemed clear. But this time, a still
blackness haunted her. She struggled to wake. Finally, after a fluster of forced
blinks, her eyes opened. Slowly, the objects around her began to take form.
An older Caucasian man stood two inches taller than Kevin. A head full of
salt-and-pepper curls, a slowly aging face of soft wrinkles, and his lean build
clothed in an expensive-looking navy blue suit; everything about him screamed
money. His mouth moved, yet silence flowed as he chatted with her husband. Pain
was etched in Kevin’s face as he listened, his back resting against the wall
to support his feeble stance as he stared out at nothing. Angela sat in a chair,
black mascara smeared around her eyes. Dried-up tears stained her cheeks.
Kevin’s lips moved. She knew his lips well and read what seemed to be “Still
no word on...” The doctor’s nod cut Kevin off before he could finish asking
his question.
What’s going on? Simone questioned. She couldn’t hear a thing. Nothing but
the continuously, annoying beep from the heart monitor. Is that machine for me?
I’m in the hospital?
She grunted and pulled, but couldn’t move. Something was holding her down. Her
surroundings were too vivid for it to be a hallucination.
The doctor took a step toward the door. No, don’t leave!
Simone grew frustrated. Wait a minute! Her ears popped. Her hearing had
returned. Relieved, she called after the doctor. Doc!
Kevin leaned against the wall with his hand on his forehead. “Doc.”
Thank you, baby, Simone said.
Though Kevin’s voice was muffled and seemingly as weak as hers, he was closer
to the doctor. Lifting his head, he stared at the doctor through red eyes
stained from crying.
“There’s really nothing you can do? I mean, suppose she was the president?
What would y’all do then? I can’t take fifty-fifty, Doc. I need something
more concrete. I need you to tell me she’s going to be okay.”
The doctor sighed as he searched for the right words of comfort.
“Unfortunately, Mr. Kennard, we’ve done everything we can. Pulling through
something like this is up to the patient. It just depends on their will to
live.”
Yes, I can hear you. You can’t hear me? Simone cleared her throat. Is that
better? Can you hear me now?
“In most cases, they can,” the doctor shared. “So talk to her. It can only
help.”
Okay, I have got to get out of this bed.
Simone tugged. She pulled. But no matter her attempt, she couldn’t free
herself from the bed. To gather strength, she relaxed and filled her lungs with
air. Fueled by determination, she gave another powerful tug until finally, she
sat up in bed.
It happened in slow motion. Angela’s gut wrenching, boundless wails bedeviled
the room as her body gradually descended from the chair to the floor. Kevin’s
eyes bulged in fear as he and the doctor leaped across the room to Simone’s
bedside.
Simone turned to the heart monitor. The continuously, annoying beep was gone. In
its place: a flatline.
Ivette Attaud, publisher, a gifted author, highly sought-after motivational speaker and domestic violence expert, developed
Healing The Body Before The Spirit, a domestic abuse educational workshop for the faith-based community.
She has written numerous articles, including a recently-published article entitled
Surviving the Loss of a Child for Spotlight On Recovery Magazine. More information can be found online at:
http://www.mylifemysoul.com.
Domestic violence affects two to four million people alone in the United States including teenagers and 54% of parents admit they haven’t spoken to their teen about dating violence or healthy relationships.
My Life My Soul, Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship is an honest and graphic true story of Ivette Attaud’s dating relationship as a teen and how it quickly manifested into a destructive, violent and psychologically abusive marriage.
Ivette puts a face on domestic violence as she describes how she was able to break the emotional and psychological chains of her abuser.
Ivette recounts vivid memories of growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness; her experience with dating violence; her battle with depression; a suicide attempt; the loss of her infant twin daughter to a domestic violence assault and re-victimization by the New York City family court system, including actual documents!
In the first part of this three-part series, My Life My Soul, Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship:
Part 1 – Surviving, Ivette lays bare the life-long difficulties those in abusive relationships face.
BPM: Ivette, when did you begin writing? When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I was born and raised in Harlem. I started keeping a journal about 10 years ago to release some of the emotional pain and trauma I had been dealing with since I left my abuser and to leave something for my children so they could gain some insight as to what I went through and maybe help them deal with their issues when they became adults. I
didn't consider myself as just a writer; I considered myself a person with an important story to tell.
BPM: Do you see writing as a
career now?
Yes, I do. I am a true entrepreneur at heart! I launched My Life My Soul, The Unspoken Journey of Life After Domestic Abuse
to raise awareness about domestic violence and abuse and also launched MLMS Publishing to release my first book.
BPM: What inspired you to write your first
book, My Life, My Soul? How did you come up with the title? Who designed
the book cover? I wrote this book as a way to cope with the loneliness and isolation that is felt by survivors of an abusive relationship, and to deal with the grief of losing my child as a result of the abuse. I experienced writer's block frequently, as this is a difficult topic to write about. Over 15 years ago, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as a result of the abuse, and one of the primary symptoms is re-living the trauma. It took me 10 years to write this because I needed to deal with the book setting off my triggers.
When I was invited to speak in public about my experience and scores of people approached me with positive feedback and shared their experiences with me, I believed that my book could help a lot of people. When I saw the statistics on teen dating violence, I included my experience with that as well.
I designed the cover myself to show that real freedom does exist for the survivor when they break the emotional and psychological chains of their abuser.
My Life, My Soul - Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive
Relationship: The title is a reflection of the physical violence and psychological abuse that threatened my life and the spiritual abuse that jeopardized my soul; and that leaving an abusive relationship is about breaking the chains that bind you.
BPM: What was the hardest part of writing your book?
As a result of the abuse, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. One of the symptoms of PTSD is re-living the experience. Writing this book meant that I re-lived the experience over and over again, including when I lost my daughter. Although writing this book will help a lot of people, it set off my triggers, which I have learned to manage. That is why it took me so long to complete it. But, the more I wrote, the easier it got to deal with and that meant I was on my healing journey.
BPM: Did you learn anything from writing My Life, My Soul and what was it?
We go through things in life for a reason. I was able to take a negative and turn it into a positive so I would be in a better position to heal and help others. I learned a lot about myself and what constituted an unhealthy relationship. I was also able to see how I’ve grown psychologically and emotionally from my teenage years, all the way to adulthood. Understanding where you’ve come from is crucial to knowing where you’re going. I also learned that I have a very powerful gift for helping people past obstacles in life that may be holding them back from achieving their goals. So, I am also a Personal Life Coach.
BPM: What messages in your book, My Life, My Soul, do you want readers to grasp?
The book contains several messages: it inspires and gives hope to the survivor who is currently in or who has left an abusive relationship so they know they’re not alone; it’s an example for the families and friends of the survivor to know what NOT to do and say; it’s for parents and teens who want to know about the red flags of an abusive relationship and it’s for the professional who works with those who have experienced domestic violence and/or abuse. The reader has a birds-eye view of what the daily reality is like for someone going through an abusive relationship, whether you are a teen or an adult. I remember what my thought process was like as a teenager. I believe there is always something to learn from someone else’s experience.
BPM: In writing your book, how much legal research was required, if any?
I still have the court documents I received when my abuser took me to court. When I decided to publish this book, I went to family court to review my family court file and see if there were any additional documents in it. To my surprise, there were court documents in my file that I knew nothing about. I decided to include those documents in my book.
BPM: Now, let’s talk about the publishing industry. How did you initially break into the publishing industry? What road did you travel?
I initially decided to use a subsidy publisher some months ago. But the publishing industry changes so quickly, and more self-publishing resources became available to me, that I decided to fund the publishing of the book myself.
It is a common myth that if you use a subsidy publisher, and they offer you a marketing package, that they will market your book.
Their goal is to make money from the author. Regardless of the publishing method used, it will always be the author's responsibility to market the book themselves. I decided to independently publish because I am a true entrepreneur at heart (it runs in my family), and I love the challenges of running my own business.
BPM: How do you feel about self-publishing? How do feel about selling digital books vs. selling in a brick and mortar store?
It depends on what the author defines as self-publishing. I prefer the term Independent Publisher. It could be a subsidy publisher, or completely funding the publishing of the book yourself. The traditional publishing industry is slowly changing their bias against self-publishers. The choice between selling digital books vs. selling in a brick and mortar store goes back to the first question - what your goal is for writing your book. Both still require a lot of hard work on the part of the author to get their book in either channel. My Life, My Soul will be available in print and as an e-book in order to make the book available to everyone.
I want to re-emphasize that understanding your goal for writing your book is important.
If you want to independently publish your book, you need to understand how the industry operates.
For example, if an author plans on publishing independently out of his or her own pocket, and is working hard to market and promote that book, just know that all your hard work may be in jeopardy. I have seen many self-publishers disillusioned by the publishing industry because they don't make much money from the sale of their books. That is because while selling online is an important part of marketing and promoting your book, if they've listed their book at online retailers, they will undercut the author's price by selling their books at a discount.
BPM: Awesome advice! Do you have any more advice for other writers? Do you have any advice for people seeking to publish a book?
There is a story inside everyone and someone will definitely benefit from what you have to say.
I would advise anyone wanting to publish a book to do ask themselves the following questions: Why am I writing it and what are my goals? What results do I want to see from publishing this book? Am I ready to take on the challenges of publishing it myself and not use a subsidy publisher? What do I expect from a subsidy publisher? Do I have the resources to market this book? Do I want to make $1-2 dollars in royalties for my book, or do I want to keep more money in my pocket?
BPM: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time or culture to another. Finish this sentence- “My writing offers the following legacy to future readers and new authors... ”
To blaze new paths in your writing and publishing journey and to not be afraid of the challenges. I am happy to say that after 10 years of writing and
two years of promotion, that My Life, My Soul – Surviving, Healing & Thriving After An Abusive Relationship – Part 1:
Surviving, is now available to make a difference in someone's life!
My Life My Soul tells readers things that someone in an abusive relationship, whether it is your loved one or friend, won’t tell you. It contains my deepest thoughts and feelings from when I first entered an abusive relationship at 16 through to an abusive marriage as an adult. I have included actual court documents as proof of how my children and I fell through the cracks of the systems designed to protect those in abusive relationship.
You can view the book trailer and purchase the book at http://www.mylifemysoul.com
BPM: What has been your most difficult hurdle to leap? Marketing, promotions or gaining media exposure, etc.
How can EDC Creations and our readers help you?
The most difficult hurdle is in converting the level of interest in the book into actual sales. As an author and publisher, I wear many hats. Not only am I responsible for the health of my business, but I'm also responsible for making the strongest efforts possible in my marketing and media exposure to make sure my book gets into the hands of those that can really benefit from it.
BPM: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases. How may our readers follow you online?
Readers can follow me on Twitter - @ivetteattaud or on Facebook. They can also email me directly at
ivetteattaud@mylifemysoul.com
Domestic violence is devastating. Understand how to better help a friend or loved one.
Purchase My Life, My Soul - Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship, Part 1: Surviving on
www.mylifemysoul.com!
More Than Meets the Eye (Zane Presents)
by Michelle Janine Robinson
Do we truly know who and what lives among us? What if a chance sexual encounter left you dead?
In More Than Meets The Eye, they are among us, and some have evil intentions. Belinda Wilson awakens one morning to find her body covered in scratches and bruises, with dried blood clinging to her skin, and knows that what is happening to her is more than just tricks of the mind.
As the truth begins to unfold, Belinda discovers a centuries-old, untold secret living amongst the mortals in New York City. There is a community of demons, incubus, and succubus that may eventually destroy all mortals. Not only do they exist, but one of her best friends is one of them. Life gets even more complicated when Belinda learns that not all demons are what they appear to be. Some of them live a dual existence, intent on survival, yet striving to coexist, without harming human life.
But, there are others that have evil intentions and are looking to populate the world with even more of their kind, enslaving humans in a sexual twist of need and desire that leaves mortals painfully ill and often dead. Can anyone stop them?
The nightmares started soon after accepting a writing assignment with Newsweek. What started as some eagerly accepted freelance work seemed to be leading her down a path toward ultimate destruction. After years of battling the worst insomnia, sleep had become her enemy. She knew better than anyone what could happen when you slept. That’s why she sat now in Starbucks at 8:45 p.m., downing her last of several cups of coffee before they closed. For the past several weeks she had devised artful ways of avoiding what she initially thought was some sort of stalker, angered by the story she was doing. It wasn’t long before she discovered what plagued her was a great deal more than merely a stalker. She realized that her safety was short-lived and that, sooner or later, she would have to go home or, at the very least, she would have to tell someone what she had learned. But who on earth would ever believe what was happening to not only her, but countless others?
She watched him, just outside the windows, lurking in the shadows…waiting.
The words be careful what you wish for rang in her ears once again. For months she had wanted little more than to get some work, any work. So when Cameron, over at Newsweek, had contacted her with a dream writing assignment, she had jumped at the chance.
It was hard to imagine it was little more than three weeks ago when she got the phone call. In three short weeks, she had gone from worrying about paying her mortgage to wondering if she would even live long enough to see the next day.
Despite months of agonizing insomnia, Belinda was overjoyed to hear the phone ringing that morning; even at such an early hour. Since the downturn in the economy, work had diminished significantly for her. After years of working at jobs that had left her feeling mostly dissatisfied, she had built up a strong client base of magazines and newspapers that called on her often to write for their publications on a freelance basis. However, for the past year or so, it had been an uphill climb to stay ahead. Most companies were cutting back and it was becoming apparent that her life-long dream of vocational independence would once again have to be put on hold and she would have to join the ranks of working stiffs on the edge of quiet desperation. That was what kept her from sleeping most nights. Now, her problems were far greater than anything she could ever have imagined. For now all of that would have to wait. The phone was ringing and she could see from the caller id that it was her editor at Newsweek.
“Hey, Belinda, how’s it going?”
“It’s going. How are you?”
“I’m good. I’ve got an assignment for you.”
“I was hoping you’d call. Things have been a bit slow lately.”
“I’m sorry about that. But, things have been slow all over; what with all the cutbacks. Newsweek is feeling the crunch as well. However, I do have an assignment for you; a good one.”
“Great!”
“We want to do a story focusing on the number of people that go missing each year. You’d be perfect for this. According to FBI-NCIC statistics, there are over 100,000 missing persons listed in their system and over 6,000 unidentified persons. Washington, D.C. has more missing persons than any other city listed, but New York has the most unidentified. I’d like you to explore these statistics and dazzle us with a phenomenal story. Maybe you could use your New York contacts to find out more about the unidentified. It’s got a good angle. This one could help put you on the map.”
“Thanks, Cameron. You’re right; it’s a good story.”
“I thought you’d like it.”
“How much time do I have?”
“You’ve got some leeway; a couple of months, maybe. Keep me posted. Okay?”
“Absolutely!”
For the first time in months, Belinda was hopeful. All it took was one really good story. She couldn’t wait to call her girls and tell them the news.
“Summer, guess what?”
“Hey you, you’re in better spirits than the last time I spoke with you. What’s goin’ on?”
“I’ve got a gig; a writing assignment. And, it’s a good one!”
“Good, good. Even though I still say you need to relax. Nobody ever went to their grave saying I wish I had worked more. You need to enjoy the fruits of your labor and stop stressing so damn much. That shit will kill you. You have to remember, everything in life is temporary; even the slow economy.”
“Yeah, yeah, I know. It’s hard to stop stressing when you can’t pay your damn rent, or in my case, my exorbitantly high mortgage.”
“Sell the condo, rent a modest apartment somewhere and live to fight another day.”
“I’ve considered that. But, I love my place; and not only that, this market sucks right now. I’ve put some feelers out and it’s getting close to impossible to sell right now.”
“You need to get out. You know what they say about all work and no play.”
“That’s one of the reasons I called. I thought maybe you, Diana and I could hit a club tonight and celebrate, maybe have some dinner.”
“Sounds good to me.”
“I’m gonna call Diana and then I want to get started on this story. I might call Aidan and see if he can help in any way.
“Aidan, huh? I thought you were weaning yourself off that one.”
“I am. This is business. He’s a detective. I’m doing a story about missing and unidentified people in New York. What better person to talk to?”
“Okay.”
“No, seriously. That’s the only reason I’m calling him.”
“I believe you. And even if you were calling him for other reasons, who am I to judge? That’s not my thing. Besides that motha fucka is fine!”
“Summer, you ain’t got no sense. I’ll call you later. I’ve got work to do; finally!”
Before calling either Diana or Aidan, Belinda decided to work up the main idea for her article, so that when she did get in touch with Aidan, she could cut to the chase and ask the right questions right off the bat. She sat in Starbucks, trying to focus. But, instead of the initial excitement she felt at getting the assignment, she found her thoughts were just as lost as she had been lately. She was once again distracted, edgy; and worst of all, she found she still couldn’t write. If she couldn’t write, she couldn’t pay her bills, and if she couldn’t pay her bills, she was decidedly screwed.
Worse than that, she didn’t even have an excuse like the bad economy to fall back on. She had a primo story, yet she was still at odds. So, Belinda realized she had better get her act together and either figure out what the hell was going on with her state of upheaval or put it on a shelf somewhere until after she had written the article she promised.
For years, she had been successfully working as a freelance journalist, writing articles for both magazines and newspapers and had gotten to a place where she was able to make a substantial living at it. But lately, she had become disenchanted with her work. Even before the decline in the economy, her articles seemed somehow stale to her and she needed to write something she could feel proud of. That’s what made this opportunity all the more of a godsend.
Slowly, ideas began to come to her. She made a note to research the statistics for missing African-Americans and other minorities. She was sure she had read somewhere that people of color made up a larger portion of missing victims than the media represents. She could be the person to bring things to light. There were so many possible angles to the story, she couldn’t help but get excited about it all over again. She also realized that this was something she had to write about.
Belinda decided she would call Aidan first and get started on her research before calling Diana. Her ideas were gaining momentum and she wanted to hold on to that while everything was fresh in her mind.
“May I speak to Detective Aidan Roberts, please?”
“Just a moment. May I say who’s calling?”
“Belinda Wilson.”
“Hey! You finally decided to return my calls, huh?”
“I’ve just been really busy,” she lied.
Aidan realized Belinda was conflicted. The fact that he had a wife and kids didn’t sit well with her. She never went into detail but, over time, their encounters had gotten less and less and eventually, she had stopped returning his calls.
“I was wondering if you were free for lunch?” she asked.
“For you, always.”
His attempts at flirtation were not unrecognized, however, Belinda decided from the moment she picked up the phone to call him that she would keep this purely professional and would not fall into any old patterns of play.
“I’m writing an article about missing and unidentified persons in New York…not just New York, but mostly New York; and I was hoping you could help me a bit.”
“No problem. Where are you now? I could come to you.”
“I’m on 75th and First. There’s a diner on 77th; Green Kitchen. You wanna meet me there?”
“I can be there in twenty minutes.”
She and Aiden had had an affair for almost a year. He was married and had a family, but she had grown up with him and had had a crush on him for as long as she could remember. One night, she was out at a club when she suddenly had the feeling that someone was staring at her. She turned to find Aidan looking directly at her. At first, she was put off by the blue contact lenses he was wearing, but eventually she got over it; especially since...
She’s a savvy, successful real-estate agent with a quick wit, a low tolerance for BS, and a gorgeous size-14 body. Despite her dream house, luxury car, and appetite for life’s best—like fine dining and hot men—she seems to have her own special talent for attracting players. Why do all of her ex-lovers belong in the Losers Hall of Fame?
There was Lamar, the hazel-eyed Adonis who sowed more wild oats than Quaker. . . Sean, an expert at juggling relationships . . . Marcus, whose lips wandered as often as his eyes . . . and others, too. But just as Rissey swears off sex and vows to dump her emotional baggage, she meets house-hunting client Dwayne Gibson. There’s no way she can resist his seductive smile and rock-hard body. . . .
Will Dwayne turn out to be the biggest bum of them all? Or will this time be different?
On the road to love and happiness, sometimes we've got to get out of our own way.
EXCERPT FROM THE THE BUM MAGNET
Bed, Bath, and Way Beyond
“I didn’t mean to come on so strong,” he said. “I hope I didn’t make you uncomfortable. I’m not shy, and I was
really feelin’ you. You are so . . . irresistible, couldn’t keep my hands to myself.”
Oh, that’s not all you couldn’t keep to yourself.
“I’ve never done anything like that before,” I said, covering my face with the sheet.
He laughed. “It’s okay. I don’t think either of us is going to burn in hell. It just happened; it was just one of those things.”
I rolled out of bed and asked him if I could take a quick shower—didn’t want to walk around smelling
like booty all day. I emerged from the bathroom dressed and ready to go about twenty minutes later.
“So, uhhh, we should get going. We’ve got properties to see, papers to sign . . .”
“Dinner to eat?” he interrupted as he stood up and walked toward the bedroom door.
“Dinner to eat?” I responded in shock. “You mean, with me?”
The moment felt almost surreal. He went from jackass to booty call to dinner date in Olympic
speed. How did that happen? Must’ve been his naked, Hershey’s ass; they get me every time. But all of a sudden—and at a most inconvenient time—I remembered my
quest: discipline, determination,
self-control. Oh, hell, my will-power arrived like an hour past late.
Meet the Author
K. L. Brady
is a D.C. native but spent a number of her formative years in the Ohio Valley.
She’s an alumnus of the University of the District of Columbia and University of Maryland University College, earning a B.A. in Economics and M.B.A., respectively.
She works as an analyst for a major government contracting firm and is an active real estate agent with Exit Realty by day—and writes by night (often into the wee hours of the morning).
She lives just outside of D.C. in Cheltenham, Maryland, with her son and lives to eat chocolate, shop, read, and write.
Originally self-published, her adult novel, THE BUM MAGNET, was published by Simon & Schuster's Pocket Books in March 2011.
THE BUM MAGNET was the winner of the 2010 Next Generation Indie Book Awards for Multicultural Fiction, as well as the Third Place Grand Prize Winner for Best Fiction of 2010.
Visit the author's website for the book tour schedule and more excerpts: http://www.authorklbrady.com
The Grass After the Drought by Melissa Dorsey
The Grass After the Drought by Melissa Dorsey is an inspirational story about a young girl who has to overcome major adversity, at a very tender age. After leaving Chicago, and a drug addicted mother, Melissa is taken to live with her grandmother in Mississippi.
Away from the drugs, crime, violence, and poverty; Melissa is faced with a much more difficult task. She has to accept the fact that she is invisible in the eyes of her family. Starved for love and attention, she finds comfort in the form of drugs, alcohol, men, and sex. With her life spiraling out of control, Melissa does the only thing that she knows how to; she turns to God for guidance. With her mother up to her old tricks, Melissa is forced to step up and assume responsibility once again. After years of heartache and pain, she finds what she has been searching for all of her life.
The Grass After the Drought Book Review:
I truly enjoyed this book. The Grass after the Drought gave me an enormous amount of hope and also perspective into real life issues. As young girls we are faced with a lot of challenges and temptations, but I am blessed to have a supportive and loving mother to guide me, and help me find my way. There are so many children out there that are not fortunate enough to have a mother or any other family members in their lives. I was pleased to know that the author made it, despite her childhood. There were two types of love addressed in this book; the right kind of love (unconditional, genuine), and the wrong kind (meaningless sex with random partners). I am abstaining for the right kind of love. I thank Mrs. Dorsey for shining a light on these topics for me, and the world.
-- Reviewed by Kennisha Lewis, 8th grader at Holcomb Bridge MS, Alpharetta, GA
Book Excerpt from The Grass After the Drought – from Chapter Eleven
Julius was the type of guy that loved to hug and kiss and hold hands, all of the things that normal couples do. I liked those things too, but I didn’t want to give him my all and then be betrayed again.
It took some time, but he finally got me to open up to him. He looked me square in the eyes and said, “Melissa please, just let me love you.” I decided to give it a chance. I stopped being so tense and stiff with him. I gave him everything that I had.
Things started to get very hot and heavy between Julius and me-too hot. A few weeks before I was to enter the eleventh grade, I found out that I was pregnant. I was a careless fool, having unprotected sex. I was lucky that I didn’t have anything more than a baby inside of me.
I may have been lucky not to have an STD, but I definitely had a huge problem on my hands. I didn’t want to have a child at 17 years old. I was just a child myself. I didn’t have a job, a house of my own, a high school diploma, or anything to offer a child. I thought about Julius and what he had to offer to me and a child, and I came up blank. I loved Julius, but I didn’t want to have children with him. He was unemployed and had one child to take care of already. How could he possibly support two children with no job?
I was lost and didn’t know what to do. I had no one to turn to in my time of need either. I thought about adoption, but if I’d carried a child for nine months, I’d be too attached to it to be able to give it away.
When I told Julius, he was calm and assured me that everything was going to be fine. I knew that he was only saying that to comfort me because he wasn’t stupid; he knew what we were up against. He told me that he was moving to Memphis to get a job so that he’d be close to the baby and me, and he could help with the support of the child.
With all of his planning, I knew that things couldn’t possibly just work out as planned. The odds were against us. We were both too young and immature to raise a child. I had seen nothing but hardship in my life, so why should this be any different?
I was destined for failure from the beginning. How would I, of all people, be able to nurture and love a child?
I’d never been loved of cherished, so I didn’t know how to provide that for anyone else. I was unnoticed and unloved by family, and I’d give them one more reason to dislike me by getting pregnant at 17.
About the Author
Melissa Dorsey
is a first time author who is currently working to complete her degree in Early Childhood Education Administration. Melissa is a wife, mother of two, and a dedicated staff member of Fulton County Schools. She is originally from Mississippi, but she currently resides in Alpharetta, GA.
Melissa enjoys spending quality time with her family, but still finds time to write. She is currently working on her second book entitled,
The Grass after the Rain; scheduled to release in December 2011.
Author Website: www.melissadorsey.com
FOLLOW Melissa on Twitter: @MelissaDorsey1
LIKE on Facebook: www.facebook.com/melissa.dorsey3
Rain
grapples with memories of a horrific past that leaves her far from unscathed.
After witnessing her mother’s gruesome murder as a child, she is now left piecing together the fragments of her shattered psyche as an adult.
Quickly, she is drowning in years of frustration and confusion with no promise of relief.
Sinister visions and undying spirits haunt Rain relentlessly, driving her deeper into darkness and lunacy.
Rain’s grandmother, GiGi, tries her best to help Rain face the truth, urging her to confront her past, but the past is too painful—it’s easier to hide.
As Rain struggles desperately to define herself, she's forced to brave her live-in siblings: a violent and narcissistic brother,
Danny, who resents her weakness and Carmen, her promiscuous and hostile older sister, who wishes Rain would disappear.
In her fragile mental state, Rain is ill-equipped to handle the chaos of their ruptured lives.
When Rain, Carmen, and Danny are submerged into the horrors of prostitution, drug-addiction, domestic violence, and murder, Rain is left alone to face her internal demons and find her identity, with no one to answer to, but herself.
Excerpt: Inside Rain by Monique D. Mensah
A cold chill invaded her bedroom. The windows were closed and the heat was on, but there was still an unjustified frost that nipped at Rain’s skin as she lay snuggled in her twin-sized bed under her Sesame Street blanket. Living in Detroit, frigid nights could be expected in the dead of winter, but this was different than any other chill she’d experienced; it was eerie. That’s what woke her up. It wasn’t the faint sound of screaming in the near distance or the echo of heavy footsteps pounding the linoleum floors. It was the creepy, cold air that bit at her ears, fingers, and toes.
Rain rubbed her eyes and lazily threw the covers off her small body. Her tiny feet dangled from the side of the bed as she sat there for a moment, yawning and wondering how long it would be before it was time to eat her usual Crunch Berries and toast for breakfast. It was dark in her room, and the light from the hallway crept through the crack under the door. She could tell it was still nighttime. She opened her curtains and saw the steel moon staring back at her, confirming her initial thought; it was still the middle of the night. Then she heard it again, thundering footsteps followed by a shrill scream. This time she knew—it was her mother.
Rain jumped out of bed and rushed out to the hallway. The light made her squint as her eyes adjusted. She started running down the hall, but quickly slowed her pace to a slow and careful walk. At five years old, she had the senses of a grown woman. She knew her mother was in danger and that she might be as well. Still, her curiosity compelled her forward to find out what was going on. As she got closer to her mother’s bedroom, the noise became louder and clearer. She heard her mother again, but this time she wasn’t screaming. She was talking desperately. Begging.
“It wasn’t me, baby. It was Rock. He forced me. He got the money. We can go get it, me and you. We can get it right now. Please, just let me get it and this whole thing will be all over.”
Rain heard a smack, then a crash. The brash voice of a man bounced off the thin walls of the small bungalow. “You think I’m stupid don’t you? I told you last Friday if you ain’t have my money, I was comin’ for you. Gimme my money now!” Smack!
To Rain, he sounded like a monster. Like Skeletor, his voice was deep and groggy and sent a cold shiver down her spine. Suddenly, she started to cry. Warm tears staggered down her face, but she managed to remain silent as she kept a slow and steady pace toward her mother’s bedroom.
She heard her mother again, “Rock! Rock got it!”
“Rock dead. You ain’t heard?” The man’s cruel laughter made Rain flinch. “Yup, got himself shot in the head and set on fire.”
“Oh my God! Please! Let me explain. We can straighten this out. I promise. Just let me put some things together fo’ you. I got you!”
Rain finally reached the door to the master bedroom. It was open just a crack, not wide enough for them to see her, but she could see them—the whole scene. A tall, dark man stood over her mother, as tall as the tallest building she’d ever seen. Her mother was on her knees begging for her life while he yanked her auburn-dyed hair. He was dressed in all black—black leather jacket, black shirt, and boots. Rain had seen him before. He had been near the house occasionally, but she didn’t know his name. This was the first time she’d ever seen him actually in the house.
Usually when he came around, her mother would call GiGi and tell her to come get Rain because she had to take care of some business. GiGi would get mad at her and fuss about how she was too absent from her child’s life, but Rain didn’t mind it at all. She loved going over her GiGi’s house. It was always so much fun. Most of the time she didn’t want to go back home; sometimes she didn’t for a couple of days. When her mother came back to get her, Rain would ask where she had been, she would always get the same answer, “Working. Mommy had to take care of some things, baby.”
But now, that man was standing in their house, in her mother’s room, and he was hurting her. She was crying. Rain had never seen her mother cry before. It made her own tears come down even faster.
About the Author
Monique D. Mensah is the award-winning author of Who Is He to You, Inside Rain and Smoke Screen. After graduating from U of M with a bachelor’s degree in business management, she went on to pen her first novel. Shortly after, she founded Kisa Publishing and published her debut novel, launching a fulfilling career as a critically acclaimed author. She resides in Southfield, MI, with her daughter, Alana, where she works full-time at a private university.
Visit the author's website: http://www.MoniqueDMensah.com
Yesterday's Lies by Terri D.
What secrets do you keep from the one you share everything with?
Secrets. Lies. Half-Truths. A poignant tale of a circle of close knit friends whose lives are more intertwined than they realize. That is until the blurred lines of Love, Lust and Friendship begins to reveal the half-truths and lies that exist. Will the secrets they all hold from the past ruin their friendship and lives forever?
Message to the Readers from Terri D.
I am a single mother of three. I once read that children bring our subconscious issues into life. They show us the parts of us that we need to heal. My children have always been my inspiration to push myself to get to the next level. I see little pieces of me in each of them but they have all grown up to have their own distinct personalities. I have worked in the Healthcare industry for over 20 years. I am presently employed for a local Healthcare company and work in the Information Systems department. Although I work in IT,
I am not a "techie" as most people consider anyone who works in this field. I consider myself to be very analytical which makes people I have know for a long time wonder where all of this creativeness came from all of a sudden. To this I say it has always been there just hidden beneath the surface.
I have kept journals as far back as I can remember. I always liked to write and express myself in writing. I have often been told I express myself in writing better than I do verbally. I dabbled in poetry from time to time, but have always gravitated more towards music. I am a singer and have also used that as an outlet for my creative energy. I come from a very musical family. All of our activities usually involve music in some form or fashion. I still sing in church, as often as possible, however, my writing intensified ten years ago while going through my divorce. It was a way for me to express myself without exposing what was really going on inside of me. At one point I allowed a close friend to read some of what I wrote and they commented that I had a very unique way of writing and expressing myself and they encouraged me to continue to write.
I have continued to journal and started to write my first book a few years ago but was not able to complete it.
Early in 2010, due to some events in my life, a story came to me and I sat down and started to write. The words flowed freely and the next thing I knew I had over fifty pages typed. My debut book
Yesterday's Lies is the finished product of that brainstorm one summer night. The characters although fictional, could be argued by those who know me well, are pieces of me in each one of them. Maybe not who I am in real life, but who I would like to be in my fantasy world.
I hope that you enjoy reading Yesterday's Lies as much as I have enjoyed writing it. It was a journey to get to the finished product but one that was well worth it. I have met some wonderful people along the way; ones that I hope will remain in my life from this point forward. As we go through the journey of life we cross paths with a lot of people. Some interactions are very brief and some last much longer. The trick is recognizing which ones to grab onto and cultivate and which ones we should let go of.
As you read the book ask yourself these questions: How far would you go for your best friend? What secrets would you keep from the one you share everything with?
Excerpt from Yesterday's Lies by Terri D.
Journal Entry -- Tuesday
As each day passes my thoughts of you and desire for you increase. When I close my eyes, I can drift back in time and feel your touch and I imagine I hear your voice. Oh how I wish I could hear your voice. I've let you get under my skin, and I feel very vulnerable because I know I'm in a position to get hurt. You told me when we first met, you were not looking for a relationship, and I agreed to your terms. I never expected you to be such a nice guy. I really want to call you but I promised Jada I would wait until Thursday.
In the middle of my entry, I checked the clock and it was only 10:15 pm. It's not too late to call, I thought to myself. I grabbed my phone and dialed the number. The phone rang four times. I was just about to disconnect the call when he picked up and answered with a simple, “Hello.”
“Hi Darien,” I said. “This is Toni.”
“Well hello, Ms. Toni,” he said and I felt like he was smiling through the phone. “I was just thinking about you.”
“Really?” I said. “That’s funny because you didn’t call me I called you,” I said with a hint of sarcasm.
“About that,” he started, “I wanted to call you but I got sent out of town on business suddenly yesterday morning. I didn't have your cell number on me. I've been in meetings all day long and have not had a minute to log in to send you an email.”
Trying to sound cool, I said “Darien its okay. I was just concerned because I had not heard from you since you left my house on Sunday, and I had not seen you around the office either. I thought maybe something had happened to you and I just wanted to check on you.”
“Oh I see, well as you can hear, I'm doing okay. I'm in Miami right now and am not sure, when I'm coming home. Hopefully this weekend, but not sure I really want to fly all the way back home just for the weekend when the only thing waiting for me there is my empty bed and my fish.”
Trying to sound very nonchalant, I said, “Yes I can understand that.”
We talked for another few minutes. Then I said, “Darien it’s getting late so I need to go. Did you save my number in your phone?”
“Yes I did.”
“Okay so call me when you can.”
“I will Toni, I promise.”
Journal Entry -- Tuesday continued…
I broke down and called you and even though Jada is going to have some choice words for me, I'm glad I did. I really enjoyed talking to you. Our conversation left me wanting more. I'm trying to put my finger on what it's about you that intrigues me the most. I think it's a combination of a number of things. First of all, I like your confidence. You carry yourself like you know exactly who you are and what you want. That's a real turn on. In addition, you try to act like you're a player and women do not mean that much to you, but I can tell that you really like women. The way you talked about your mom and little sister I can tell you really like women. I mean most straight men like women. They love us and want to make love to us, but they do not really like us. I can tell you do. It's the way you listen that makes the difference. Women like to be heard more than anything else. I could write so much more but am very tired, so am closing for now. I'm looking forward to hearing from you tomorrow.
I placed my journal back in its hiding place, put my cell phone on the charger, and prepared to turn in for the night. As soon as I turned the light off my cell phone rang. I looked at the clock and it said 11:00 pm. Who is calling me this time at night? I thought to myself. I reached over to grab my phone off the charger to look at the number. It was an unfamiliar out of town number. I think the same one from the other day. Who is this who keeps calling me? I thought. I considered letting it go to voice mail again but I had a feeling I needed to take this call so I answered, “Hello”.
About the Author
Terri D. is a long term transplant resident of Harrisburg, PA. She was born in Detroit Michigan and grew up in the Washington DC and Suburban Maryland area until she left to attend Chatham Hall a private boarding school in Virginia. She attended Queens College in Charlotte North Carolina as well as Lebanon Valley College in Pennsylvania. She is a single mother or three.
Intro:
Sabor a Mi -- Love is the last thing on ballroom instructor Melody Walker’s mind. Her parent’s storybook marriage has been torn apart by her father’s one-time act of infidelity. Her brother, a leading local conservative, nearly ran his own marriage off the rails with a woman known to the world as “Nazi Barbie.”
When her boyfriend’s indiscretion delivers the bad news in person, Melody has had enough. Out of the blue, an unexpected chance to dance drops into her lap and mambo is the only thing on Melody’s mind. It’s just as well, since she and the sexy Latin pro she’s paired with hate each other on sight.
When resistance turns to romance, Melody has a choice – should she follow her heart or her head? She’s not the only one grappling with matters of the heart, and when danger shows up, will the threat make their decisions clear or even more complicated?
More than once, I’ve been asked about the title of my novella. “Why did you name it Sabor a Mi? Where does it come from? And what does it mean?”
In reverse order, it means “a taste of me” and I blame it all on Gloria Estefan and Jose Feliciano. Years ago, I found their live duet on WinMx, a free, but virus-laden music download site. It was wonderful, but how could it be anything less with those two singing their hearts out? I heard it again, this time at a Mexican resort (yes, that same resort visited by Melody and her friend in Sabor a M). And yes, with the exception of her heartbreaking revelation, a lot of what happened in Mexico was true - even the appearance of that “sexy senior” - but ask me later. I've posted a picture of the resort, bu somewhere there are more photos to prove it (lol).
The last time I found the song was on iTunes. I’d been given a Nano and was busy downloading every kind of music I loved. Again, as in my novella, the version by Mexican singer Luis Miguel was at the top of the list. There are no other words to describe him – he has the voice of an angel. I have since downloaded ten of his songs, and like Melody, although I’m lost in translation I can sing each of them phonetically. It’s no surprise that many of them are on my “most played” list, especially Armando Manzanero’s Medley (I’ve got Feliciano’s version as well). Since then I’ve taken group and private salsa lessons. But I need to learn the Viennese Waltz and have a ballroom party just so I can dance to both of these romantic and beautiful songs.
And what does any of this have to do with mambo, salsa and the story of Raimundo
and Melody? Well, you'll just have to read Sabor a Mi to find out!
Book Review: Sabor a Mi by Niambi Davis
Looking for something different to keep herself in shape, Melody decided to try ballroom dancing. From the very first step, she was in love. The salsa, paso doble, the quick step - Melody mastered all of them. After dumping her cheating boyfriend, she was ready to move on and concentrate on making her dream of opening a dance studio a reality. A chance meeting with Eduardo and Marisol Santos changed her life in Sabor A Mi by Niambi Davis.
Eduardo, a retired ballroom dancer, knew there was something special about Melody. He recommended that she dance with his brother, Raimundo (Ray), in an upcoming competition. Melody was excited until she met Raimundo.
Raimundo knew when he saw Melody that she would not be ready for the competition. When she entered the dance studio, he was not prepared for the heat that moved him in more ways than one.
Davis brings readers a very sensual and hot love story. Her description of the dance and the movements puts you in the room with the characters. As Melody and Ray's attraction grew, so did the intensity and heat of the story. Davis entwined a love story among the secondary characters that was also sensual and breathtaking. This is a story that all romance readers will enjoy. - Priscilla Johnson, APOOO Bookclub
About the Author
Niambi Brown Davis was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. She and her family lived for many years in Washington, DC and for three and a half years, made the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago their home. From Dusk to Dawn, her first full-length novel, and Love's Redemption, a digital novella, were both published in 2008. In 2010 Sanctuary was released as an Apple iTunes application. She has written for Dorchester Publication's Bronze Thrills, True Confessions and Black Romance magazines.
Niambi indulged her passion for sailing and travel by serving as publicist for the Black Boaters Summit and as a member of the National Association of Black Travel Writers. She is editor of Travel and Enjoy and has written for Travel Lady, an online travel magazine. Aside from travel and writing, Niambi is an avid reader of historical fiction, and deeply involved in tracing the history of both branches of her family tree. Her day job is running the business of Sand & Silk / Soleful Strut, her own line of handcrafted bath and body products. Visit the author's website -
www.niambibrowndavis.com
New Short Story Collection Confronts Love and Lost in the City of Light
First-time Fiction Author Carolyn Moncel Releases
Encounters in Paris – A Collection of Short Stories
LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND — African-American author, Carolyn Moncel announced today the release of
Encounters in Paris, her first collection of short stories.
Ellery Martin-Roulet, a 35-year-old American public relations executive living and working in Paris has the perfect life. She is married to a handsome Frenchman, has adorable twin daughters and a successful bilingual PR firm located in one of Paris’ trendiest arrondissements. Unfortunately, Ellery soon realizes that life isn’t always perfect. When betrayal, loss, and regrets enter Ellery’s world at five different periods of time over a ten-year span, she quickly learns that it is how she chooses to deal with life’s trickiest situations that shapes her soul.
“We all have fallen in and out love or encountered life’s various disappointments, but both good and bad experiences make us who we’re meant to be,” says Moncel, a Chicago native, who has lived between Paris and Lausanne, Switzerland for the last eight years. “Working through real-life problems is never neat and tidy. In fact, it can be quite a messy affair but problems remain until they are confronted and resolved one way or another.”
Moncel is a life-long storyteller. She admits that choosing to write a collection of short stories instead of a novel–an even riskier endeavor for any aspiring author in a down economy–was no accident. In today’s fast-paced society, Moncel believes her fans will want more short stories because they provoke introspection. “To really enjoy a short story, one must slow down and think about the characters and their circumstances,” says Moncel. Short stories are more affordable and easily digestible in one sitting; and can be downloaded and read quickly from eBook readers or smart phones.
“Writing short stories provides the perfect format for inviting readers to take a peek inside the lives of others, if only for a brief moment,” says Moncel. “Stylistically, I am allowed to say my peace, get off the page, move on to another story, and I love it!”
About Carolyn Moncel
A virtual media and web consultant by day and author by night, Carolyn Davenport-Moncel moved to Paris from Chicago, her hometown, in 2001. In Paris, she started the first English-speaking Virtual Assistance firm. Known for her online articles on media relations, Moncel owns MotionTemps, LLC (www.motiontemps.com), a Digital Project and Web Content Management firm with offices in Chicago, Paris and Geneva; and its subsidiary, Mondavé Communications (www.mondaveinc.com), a media relations training and publishing company.
She has written, placed articles and been featured in such diverse publications as Entrepreneur.com, Expatica.com, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, Wired News, International Herald Tribune, Wall Street Journal, Working Mother, Bonjour Paris, and PrissyMag.com.
She currently resides in Lausanne, Switzerland with her husband and two daughters Encounters in Paris is her first work of fiction. Her next collection of short stories, 5 Reasons to Leave a Lover will debut in fall 2011. Discover her other works at
www.carolynmoncel.com.
About Encounters in Paris
Encounters in Paris – A Collection of Short Stories is now available in paperback and also in digital format for Kindle at all major online bookstores including, Amazon.com
(http://bit.ly/cB9bfR). The retail price for paperback is $17.99. The Kindle edition is $9.99. Single story downloads start at $2.99. The ISBN number is: 978-1-4538-9821-5. Ms. Moncel is available for appearances, book club discussions and interviews.
Truth About Being a Published Author
by Electa Rome Parks
“It has been a pleasure, an honor and a privilege to be a published author; it is one of the true joys and accomplishments of my life. Not everyone has the opportunity to realize a dream and I feel totally blessed to be in that number. During my tenure as a published author, I’ve discovered certain truths.”
– Electa Rome Parks
1. You can’t please all of the people all of the time. Everyone is not going to love or even like your novels. And that’s OKAY.
2. Everyone, their mother and cousins will want to point out any editorial errors they may find within the pages of your books. Everyone’s a critic.
3. You don’t necessarily have to go to college to become a successful writer. I believe there are elements of writing that comes naturally, just like breathing.
4. Everyone thinks they can write a book. However, every book in the marketplace isn’t necessarily a good book.
5. Everyone thinks their life story should be a book.
6. Talent will only get you so far. Sometimes it’s all about being in the right place at the right time.
7. The right “handlers”, i.e. agents, editors, PR person, make all the difference in the world.
8. Every fiction novel has some element(s) of truth. Don’t believe the hype.
9. Writing is a business. Sales are the bottom line. No matter how talented you are, if you don’t have the sales, you won’t get the next deal.
10. There is such a synergy when creative minds come together; it’s magic.
11. There is such a sense of freedom and joy in having the ability, from the very core of your soul to express yourself to the world; it’s almost like giving birth.
12. The new “renaissance” authors are making history and some are creating powerful legacies.
13. Writing is a lonely and hard business to be successful in. Most of us can’t quit our day jobs.
14. Every author should pen at least one book that gives back to the universe in a positive, appealing manner to the masses.
15. You have to have a real love affair with the beauty and power of words in order to stick with it because the industry, like a lover, will take you through ups and down and sometimes screw you over.
About the Author
Electa Rome Parks lives outside Atlanta, Georgia and is the best-selling author of seven acclaimed novels, The Ties That Bind, Loose Ends, Almost Doesn't Count, Ladies' Night Out, These Are My Confessions (anthology), Diary of a Stalker and her latest release True Confessions.
Dubbed a "book club favorite," avid readers have embraced Electa's true to life characters that tackle prevalent and heavy hitting issues that take them on an emotional roller coaster. Electa is currently following her passion and working on her next novel and first screenplay.
To find out when and where Electa will be in your area, check out her website at
www.electaromeparks.com.
Meet Celebrity Book Reviewer Ivory Tabb
"Making
a way out of no way" is the lifestyle attitude that Ivory Tabb lives by
everyday. From negotiating million dollar contracts to planning high profile
celebrity events, Ivory has successfully thrust her way to the top of the
entertainment arena as a successful talent agent, TV personality and much more.
She has worked with some of today’s biggest entertainers and athletes
including Adrian Peterson, Deion Sanders, Shaquille O’Neal, Tony Romo, Brian
McKnight, Michael Phelps and Chris Paul.
Growing
up in
New Jersey, Ivory knew that she would have a successful career in sports and
entertainment. After graduating near the top of her high school class, Ivory
accepted a track scholarship to Louisiana State University (LSU) and excelled in
a multitude of student activities while obtaining her Bachelor of Arts degree in
Kinesiology. Upon graduation, she continued her education receiving a Masters of
Arts degree while working as an academic counselor for the school’s freshmen
football players.
After
leaving LSU, Ivory was pursued by Southern University for the position of
athletics academic advisor. "Ms. Tabb" thrived and consistently
brought fresh ideas and innovative processes to the institution. After one year
in this position, Ivory accepted another challenge and became Southern’s new
assistant women's basketball coach. Though she had never played a game of
basketball in her life, Ivory approached this new venture ferociously and
developed the team’s first branding strategy by creating marketing efforts and
promotions that popularized and populated the women's basketball games. It was
also during this time that Ivory began developing relationships with well-known
entertainers by negotiating special performances and appearances at the school.
Throughout
the years, Ivory has continued to help guide the professional sports careers of
several prominent athletes, including Stromile Swift, Michael Clayton, Marcus
Spears and Jamarcus Russell. These professional athletes, in particular,
specifically recognized her ambitions and recruited Ivory to serve as their
manager once professionally drafted. Ivory has also booked and managed
appearances for many entertainment marketing agencies, as well as AT&T and
State Farm.
Today,
Ivory is the entertainment industry’s most sought after executive and
personality. Only Ivory can see the world like she does…and it’s time for
everyone to hear IT and see IT! She recently participated as a contestant on
VH1’s hit reality show I Want to Work for Diddy 2, vying for the once in a
lifetime opportunity to work for Hip Hop hit maker and businessman
extraordinaire Sean “Diddy” Combs. Her appearance on the show further
propelled this exuberant personality into the spotlight, making her a powerful
force. With charm, beauty and fierce business savvy, Ivory is taking over and
giving the world a Piece of Ivory along the way.
Piece of Ivory
Book Reviews
Beautiful Ugly
by Shelia E. Lipsey
In Beautiful Ugly, we walk with Envy, Layla and Kacia as they show us what it means to have an unbreakable bond. This story reveals that, even through trials and tribulations, what we need most are each other and faith.
Envy is a gorgeous woman who, from the outside looking in, has it all together. She has a great job, nice home and plenty of money in the bank to provide for herself – better than any man could. But what others don’t know is that she’s living a life full of secrets. One of those secrets is so heavy that is keeps her tossing and turning all night.
With an angelic voice that soothes her soul and those within her church’s congregation, Layla’s bout with obesity has her settling and believing that just any man will do. That, coupled with terribly low self esteem, causes her to find comfort in food and a man that she knows is no good. But, when she is in a terrible accident, she begins a path of self discovery and realizes that she is worth far more than she ever believed, or could have imagined.
Kacia has been dealing with a physically crippling disease her entire life. Unfortunately for her, she believes that every man who takes pity on her loves her. This untruth has resulted in six children with six different men. Kacia believes that the tables have turned and that the Lord has finally blessed her with a God-fearing man to call her own. We soon learn that she will do anything to keep him.
This book is an eye-opening read that will show you that, through both good and bad times, true friends and the Lord will help you navigate all of life’s ups and downs. I recommend this book to anyone knows about experiencing pain and coming out victorious in the end.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it. -- Ivory Tabb, Piece of Ivory Book Reviews
ISBN-10: 1601629974
ISBN-13: 978-1601629975
Karma by Tash Hawthorne
A beautiful, street-savvy woman named Karma is hell bent on finding her mother’s abusive boyfriend. The one who murdered her.
Karma is so angry, hurt, and determined that she’s willing to do whatever it takes to carry out this task. Nothing can stop her or stand in her way. That is, until she crosses paths with Money Parks, one of Newark's finest men in blue.
Many hidden truths begin to surface as Karma sets out on her journey to avenge the death of her mother, who was her best friend and strongest supporter. As Karma and her cousin, Indigo, come up with a plan to help bring the killer out of hiding, Karma must decided if it is worth it. She finds that handling her mother’s business, while staying focused on her relationships with her dad and Money are proving difficult.
This is a great, fast-paced read that will leave readers guessing about how it will all turn out. I recommend Karma for those who like books with all types of surprises along the way, up until the very last page.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
-- Ivory Tabb, Piece of Ivory Book Reviews
ISBN-10: 0981854508
ISBN-13: 978-0981854502
Cheetah by Missy Jackson
Fast money and fast times – what happens when it all falls down?
Cheetah and her best bud, Naj, rule Newark's vicious drug trade with an iron fist. When Cheetah is brutally attacked, she vows revenge on those responsible and whoever left her for dead.
After her release from the hospital and recovery, it’s time for her and Naj to get back in the game and on top, by any means necessary. Cheetah sees this as a chance to rob everybody and get money quickly.
With a burgeoning love in the mix, and a new crew and another trusty sidekick, Radee, doing major deals and making big money off of her scandalous scheme, things are getting messy. People finding out the culprit behind the recent string of Newark drug dealer robberies and flipping product won’t be hard.
This book is one that will keep you interested and on the hook to find out if all good things eventually do come to an end. It’s a fast, entertaining read that I finished in one sitting. I recommend Cheetah because it is full of surprises and mystery. Like many, Cheetah wants what’s best for her crew, but knows that the walls will have to come tumbling down soon.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
-- Ivory Tabb, Piece of Ivory Book Reviews
ISBN-10: 0981854559
ISBN-13: 978-0981854557
The Buzz by Stefanie Newell
From the looks of things, Ebony Jenkins has it all. She’s a fabulous stylist and entrepreneur with her own shop, lives in a nice house and drives a luxury car, and has a wonderful daughter with a great man. Her man,
Buzz, is an up-and-coming rapper and producer.
Ebony is a woman-on-the-go who spends long hours at her shop, but she gets very bored at night while waiting for Buzz to come home from the studio. So she fills that empty time by browsing Internet gossip sites and posting lies and rumors about celebrities with her best friend Trina, who co-signs her every word. This obsession with pop culture is fueled by the fact that, as a child, she and her family didn't have much. So, now, as an adult she refuses to allow her child to go through the same things she did.
Ebony’s consumption with the lives of others and intrigue with spreading lies on the Internet has caused her to be ignorant to the fact that her own life is falling apart right before her. So, when a new up-and-coming R&B artist Arika hits the scene, Ebony is determined to ruin this young star’s reputation. Why? Because she believes that she is Buzz’s mistress.
Her memories of being impoverished keep her determined to put a stop to anybody and anything that she feels is standing in her way of achieving the "perfect life." Ebony wants the good life so bad that she can't see that she has made it on her own right.
This book was a great read, especially since I know all about blogging and online message boards. I would definitely recommend The Buzz to anyone who is into pop culture and is thoroughly amused by it. The Buzz is fast-paced and offers the reminder to not throw stones if you live in a glass house.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
-- Ivory Tabb, Piece of Ivory Book Reviews
ISBN-10: 0982148402
ISBN-13: 978-0982148402
How to Kill Your Husband by Keith Thomas Walker
If you found out your husband of 16 years was cheating on you and living a double life, would your thoughts lead you to ponder revenge?
In How To Kill Your Husband by Keith Thomas Walker, this question is answered with a slow, well thought out plan. When devoted, loving and seemingly vanilla wife Clair Hudgens finds out that her cheating husband has another family that he is taking care of in addition to the one she has with him, seeking revenge becomes her priority.
However, with three children to care for, she is hesitant to react with her cohorts Melanie – her crazy friend – and Becky, her newly-divorced colleague. But as the details and lies begin to fall into place, Clair decides to get in gear and devise a plan-of-action that she hopes will serve as the ultimate revenge. With the help of her new divorce lawyer, Trevor, she not only gets mad – she gets even.
This book is a great story that offers readers a chance to see Clair’s metamorphosis from a boring and blind house wife, into a take charge, stand up and be noticed kind of woman. She gave up her hopes and dreams to follow her husband, the man she loved, and his army career, only to be slapped in the face by his lies and adultery. Clair decides that she will not be made a fool of another day of her life.
Giving you a Piece of Ivory. So what if you don't like it.
-- Ivory Tabb, Piece of Ivory Book Reviews
ISBN-10: 1585714216
ISBN-13: 978-1585714216
Black Like Me by Shelia E. Lipsey
Remember the famous slogan,
I’m Black and I’m Proud? I grew up chanting these infamous words as a teenager and through my young adulthood. For me, it meant pride in my race, my color, my nationality. It stood for strength and courage to persevere through some of life’s most difficult times as a black person. It meant having an attitude that would overcome the spirit of segregation, bigotry and racism.
Say it loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud.
Today, I want to sing at the top of the rafters and proclaim these words again to our youth, to those who don’t know anything about the struggle that were endured so that we can enjoy the opportunities we have today as a people. I want to somehow convince our young men and women that we are unique, divine, and special. We are victors and not victims. What will it take for us to stop black on black crime? What can we who know the struggle, who’ve lived the history of our people, do to help make a difference that will leave an indelible mark on our young people?
When will we learn more about our history and the importance of supporting and encouraging one another? There comes a time when enough is enough. This is the beginning of a new decade. Let us reach out to embrace one another rather than murder and maim each other. It’s time to change from gangs to help each other gain.
We need more James Baldwin in the world today. James Baldwin (Aug. 2, 1924 - Dec. 1, 1987) was a very important American author who wrote about the struggle of being black in America. James was the oldest of nine children and was born into poverty in Harlem, New York.
We need to encourage our youth to use their minds to invent again, like Sarah Goode. Goode invented the folding cabinet bed, a space-saver that folded up against the wall into a cabinet. When folded up, it could be used as a desk, complete with compartments for stationery and writing supplies. Goode owned a furniture store in Chicago, Illinois, and invented the bed for people living in small apartments. Goode's patent was the first one obtained by an African-American woman inventor (approved on July 14, 1885).
http://www.npr.org
We need more youth aspiring to be like Maggie Walker. Maggie Lena Walker (July 15, 1867 - December 15, 1934) was the first woman in the USA to become a local bank president. Throughout her life, Walker worked for civil rights and other humanitarian causes.
http://www.npr.org
It’s time for our young people to put down weapons of destruction and began to build mental weapons of knowledge to improve life for themselves and others. We need more great novelists like New Hampshire indentured servant-turned-novelist Harriet Wilson who wrote Our Nig: or, Sketches from the Life of a Free Black more than a century ago. Wilson’s work is the first known publication by an African American.
http://www.npr.org
The time is now. It’s a new decade. It’s time to make a positive difference. It’s time to bring dreams from the realm of thoughts to the realm of reality. It’s time to become proud of who we are as a people again. With the first Black president in office, and black people holding higher positions and obtaining greatness, there should be a greater sense of urgency to turn things around for the good. It’s time to believe and achieve. It’s time to rise and shine and proudly proclaim that we are Black and Proud. Let me hear you say it.
Say it loud: I’m Black and I’m Proud!
MY WRITING GETS NO ATTENTION
by author/poet Marc Lacy
No attention? I know this is not coming from you because your friends and family are ecstatic at the fact that you’ve written a book and are a published author. Your former high school English instructor and her current writer’s guild have been following you as you’ve become versed in article publishing and blogging. Meanwhile, your name has a certain “buzz” attached to it via the internet and your popularity has been increasing gradually.
You recently found out a New York Times Best-Selling author has acquired a copy of your monthly e-newsletter and now wants to keep in touch with you. Things seem to be going very well. Fruits of your hard literary labor have become manifest at a quicker rate than your reading radar could have ever forecasted. You now feel
“all things literary” while promises from your prose passion seem to be fulfilled generating a smile on your face. You’re saying to yourself how easy you could get accustomed to
“this literary thing.”
Several months later, you reach a lull and all the writing (no pun) on your publishing wall leads to the fact that the honeymoon is over! No longer are you a fresh and new face in the game. The initial buzz people acquired from meeting you and reading your material for the first time exists no more. You feel like calling Dr. Phil because you’ve been a victim of a “one write stand.” The book review, tour stop inquiries, and interview requests have waned. Your
Amazon sales have dried up and you’ve exhausted all of your local contacts by which a booksigning or discussion could be scheduled. Your publishing bank account has been emptied, shaken, and turned upside down for loose change.
But the only thing that falls out is a note that reads, “I need money.” At this point you are frustrated because everywhere you go, people are asking, “hey man, how’s the writing going?” Then while you’re in Wal-Mart shopping, the proverbial “Didn’t you write a book or something?” will most definitely be asked…even if it is six months after the release. You’ve reached a place where you just want to toss your pen and pad into the river and call it a career.
Go ahead and react the ways in which you want to react. But after the feelings wear off, make sure you leave the door cracked enough for common sense to seep back in. After it settles into your head, you’ll soon realize…it just “seems” as if your writing gets no attention because you are not getting the reaction now that was received months ago when your book first came out. Hello! Welcome to the life of a writer/author. One of these days you’ll realize that there is a difference between “inside the literary circle” and “outside the literary circle.” If someone is outside of the circle, they may know of one or two household names as far as authors and writers are concerned…but that’s it.
However, with brand-new to mid-level authors (via popularity standards), it is almost a guarantee that the person will not be familiar with that author’s work. That is just how the cookie crumbles in the literary community. And if this fact alone depresses you, you may as well write your eulogy, climb into the wooden box, and just wait on the funeral. Keep in mind, some friends inquire about how your writing is going because they are genuinely happy for you. Do not expect them to know the nuances of what you do (unless you take time to break everything down). All they know is, “My boy gotta book and I’m happy for him. He’s successful…and I want to say I knew him when…” All of that is fine and dandy. Just remember, it is not up to them to know all of what you know about your career.
Writing can be a glamorous profession in some cases; but 90 percent of writers will tell you; there’s nothing glamorous about it. Factor in the business and political aspects and you’ve got yourself a crazy grind. But still, you must find a way to get past the various elements that govern/control the writing/authoring “business.” Understand the God given gift that allows you to put a “spin” on your writing belongs to you. God gave this to you. This is what should bring you joy. Then when another person gains some form of uplift or is impacted in a positive way…and let’s you know…THAT IS YOUR REWARD. That is all of the attention you need to stay influenced to keep churning out books/articles. Remember, your literary creative genius in a published format, may not yield an immediate financial return on investment.
Also, you may never be able to sell everyone inside/outside the literary circle on your writing; because EVERYONE IS NOT A WRITER. With that being the case, they may not be able to appreciate what you go through to be able to do what you do. Regardless of how anyone reacts, your passion is what drives you. If you are applying the level of passion needed daily in your writing; trust me, your writing will get all of the attention it needs and then some. It may not be today or tomorrow. But when it is time…IT’S TIME. I can’t wait to see you there!
About the Author
Marc Lacy, a graduate of Alabama A&M University is a nationally renown, award winning poet/author and spoken word artist. He has performed all of over the country for many national literary events and spoken word venues. Marc is the author of Rock & Fire - Love Poetry from The Core, and The Looking Heart - Poetic Expressions from Within. He is also the producer of
REFlux, RTIQLation, and LyriCode 256 spoken word CDs.
Marc is the contributor to many anthologies such as: The Soul of a Man, Step up to The
Mic, and Witness the Truth. Marc is a member of ArtNSoul Society of Expression, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Church Street
CPCA, Huntsville Literary Association, and National Society of Black Engineers. He credits his faith in God and love of family for providing energy to succeed.
This is a true story. Don’t you hate it when people start with that? However, I must say this because what I am about to tell you is amazing. But it is believable if you believe that God can use anything, any situation or any circumstance to speak to us. Well, this particular day about 4 weeks ago I was enjoying a nice spring day during the weekend. I decided to repots some plants and a couple of rose bushes. I was very excited about doing this because like my Mother, I love flowers, plants, gardens and it is one of my favorite leisurely pastimes.
As I proceeded on my deck, all my gear in check, I encountered a bumble bee. I’d seen the bumble bee or a bumble bee that always hung around my deck. I always ignored the bumble bee because it did not seem to pose a threat. I would go to another area of the deck and swing or sit down and enjoy the outdoors. Occasionally, it would flutter over toward me and I’d swat at it and it would flutter back to “his side of the deck”. Well, this particular day, Mr. Bumble bee was center stage, fluttering in mid air. I stood and looked at it through the glass door. I didn’t give much thought to him because like before he didn’t pose a threat. I assumed it would be like any other time, I’d go to my area and he would stay in his. I proceeded out the door and he did not move. I stopped in my tracks and lightly swatted at it. He kind of fluttered away and came right back; center stage. I tried to ignore him and started to re-pot a plant. He began to buzz around me as if I was on his turf. I took the paper page that was wrapped around the bottom of the pot and swung at him. He still lingered and buzzed around me. I began to think that he might sting me, so I began to swing a little harder. This went on for about 10 minutes or so. I was actually having a fight with a bumble bee and on my own turf. I thought this is ridiculous; you don’t pay any bills around here (one of my favorite things to tell our 16 year old from time to time). After about 10 or 15 more minutes I figured that the paper bag wasn’t going to work. I went inside and glared at the bumble bee through the door. I was really agitated. As I glared at him through the door I thought these insects are getting bolder and bolder these days.
I decided that I would just re-pot the plant inside, by the door. As I was trying to pour the dirt in the pot I glanced to see if Mr. Bee was still there, I accidently stumbled, spilling potting soil on the floor and against the base board. I had made a big mess and was very irritated by now. I was ready to get rid of him for good. I decided to get the broom. I had gotten a little afraid of the bumble bee and his boldness so I cracked the screen door and swung at the bumble bee. He still held his stance. This went on for about 30 minutes. I went inside and repotted the rose bush and watched the bee lingering around in mid air. After I re-potted the plant I cracked the screen door and swung at him so that I could put the plant outside on the deck. When I swung he fluttered away. I picked up the plant, ran out on the deck, sat the plant down and started to run back in the house. I turned around to look behind me and there he was dead in pursuit of me as if to say, “You better get back in the house.” I stood there watching in disbelief thinking, “What in the world?”
Suddenly, it dawned on me that I was fighting with all my might to no avail. I was exhausted, frustrated and felt defeated and obviously it was a fight that I wasn’t going to win because I was using the wrong weapon! What I needed was some insect killer. I began to think about how sometimes we fight the enemy with all our strength, our might, our will power, all our mind power, all our determination and still lose the battle every time. That spoke to my heart in volumes. God’s word is the weapon we should use to defeat the enemy. No matter what we are going through or what we are fighting or what the conflict is or what the enemy is trying to do, we need to use the right weapon. When our backs are against the wall we can come out swinging. Throwing a right (I let the peace of God rule in my heart, I refuse to worry about anything (Col 3:15)) and then a left (Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)) and then an upper cut (Satan the Lord rebuke thee) and get a TKO every time. When we know the Word we are in authority over the enemy because the word tells us that we have authority and power over the enemy. God’s Word is the right weapon to defeat the attacks of the enemy.
And as far as Mr. Bumble Bee, I got into my car, went to Home Depot, purchased some insect killer and took care of him. To my amazement he was still there. My first attempt to spray him was through the screen door but that didn’t work. It just left residue on the screen. I knew I had to face him head on. I eased out the door, but this time I boldly took my stance. I was assured that I had the right weapon and began to spray away. I had to spray him several times but needless to say, I repotted all my flowers in peace and I haven’t seen a bumble bee since. I am sure at some point I might see another one, but next time I will use the right weapon and save myself a lot of grief. And yes, this should be in Ripley’s believe it or not!
“Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you (Luke 10:19).” That authority and power is the Word of God.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Author Rhonda K. Herring is releasing her new book, Ever Changing. She gives a bold account of spiritual development and growth that led her to look within herself for the strength and courage to make a difference in her life and in others. Her journey takes her readers from childhood, to adulthood, to purpose.
Rhonda Herring lives in northern Virginia and is a Senior Program Analyst for the Department of Defense. She has been with the Department of Defense for more than twenty-two years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, majoring in Accounting, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Ever Changing is the story of how one woman submitted herself to God’s will and how He sustained her in her darkest moments. She describes the intimate details of her relationship with God and how He transformed her life. Based on the beloved “Serenity Prayer” that was instilled in the author as a young child. How she learned the true meaning of the prayer and how it sustained her through her trials and tribulations. She finds the courage to change the things she can and the “wisdom” to know the difference.
Ever Changing was written for those who do not understand why they are going through difficult times and experiencing constant changes in their lives. It is for those who are seeking the wisdom to identify the things they can change and to be wise enough to leave those things they can not change to God. This testimony teaches self-acceptance, acceptance of others and the acceptance of change with the understanding that unless God sails the ship we are afloat.
Ever Changing: Inside Outward by Rhonda K. Herring
Author's Website: http://www.e-rhonda.net
ISBN-10: 1581693095 | ISBN-13: 978-1581693096
Religion - Inspirational/Spirituality | Christian Life - Spiritual Growth
WTH:
What's Right has Become Wrong!
Nanette Buchanan
Just
Venting …… What's right has become wrong. What's wrong
is now accepted and is now right. These words were a part of a daily message I had sent to me by Pastor Renee
Glover. I have become anxious daily looking for her scripture and
interpretation. These words stung. As she went on to explain I
understood her words as I looked at my surroundings. I had to agree I was
guilty of not looking in the mirror.
We (as people of the world) have grown to accept whatever is done
and in some cases make provisions for it. The passage started with the
smallest thought our children. We allow them to talk to adults, elderly,
teachers, even us as parents as though they are in charge of our homes, their
schools, the streets, communities and their history. The absence of
respect and morals is now an acceptance. “That's how they are today.”
The excuse becomes “They'll change when they get older.” We accept
parents’ lax responsibility for raising their children. Family Services
removes the child from the home, or ignores the family until some tragic event
occurs. The parent is not forced to be a parent, and they continue to have
children that they leave with family or society to raise. We accept their
absence, its okay. The lack of a nurturing family is accepted yet again.
We've become a society of violence. It's conceivable to hear of
domestic abuse, violence, murder on a daily basis. Is this becoming the
norm? Neighborhoods are riddled with daily acts of violence.
Children are being killed and it's just another number for the statistical
polls. We harbor the wrongs of our friends and family. We spend the
money of the street, it's the times. There's no employment, so the money
that comes from the addict, the trick turned out, will have to provide for the
family. What is wrong has become right. Or so it seems…
We've come to know, turning the cheek also turns our eyes from what is in
front of us. "It doesn't affect us; we've moved to another neighbor,
another class of people, we don't live among THEM. " It's a shame but
what can we do?
Recession
has knocked on our doors. Every family has been affected in all
neighborhoods. Violence and drugs has crept in all our children's lives,
directly or indirectly. Domestic violence, disrespect, the lack of morals
has crept in our homes. What's right has become wrong. What's wrong
we've accepted and now it is our way of life. We did this, as a home, a
community, a nation.
A
Black President! We've got our eyes open now. He'll fix this
mess that we allowed. He'll bring us through this recession, bring the
boys home from war, find Osama, lower the taxes, put the money in the economy,
solve the employment crisis, stop the violence, improve the education, take the
crooks out of politics, in four years. Barrack Obama, yes we can.
We've put our food on his plate, told him to eat, enjoy, digest and wait for the
next helping. What's right will not return to us in four years. Yes
we can. What's wrong we've accepted and now is right; Change must come!
That was his outcry, his
campaign slogan. We took it and we must embrace it. Not just for the
nation or our communities but for our homes, ourselves.
It's
a New Year and a new decade. A new day dawning; a new time for all of
us; another chance to correct our wrongs and make them right. It starts
with each of us. Change starts within…Just Venting.
About
Author Nanette Buchanan
Nanette M. Buchanan was
born, raised and educated in
Newark
,
New Jersey
. After graduating from
Arts
High School
in
Newark
she attended
Rutgers
University
in
New Brunswick
,
New Jersey
. It was then that she first set her pen to pad, written expressions of her love
for poetry. She is a proud mother, wife and grandmother, now residing in
Somerset
,
New Jersey
. Nanette is employed with the State of
New Jersey
within the Department of Corrections. This dynamic author is looking forward to
making writing a full time career after retiring from her current position with
the State of
New Jersey
. The author is available for personal appearances, chats and signings.
Her pad to pen accomplishments include three volumes of poetry; Thoughts,
Thoughts & Reflections, and Quiet Times; five children stories and seven
novels. Nanette’s first published work and debut novel was “Family
Secrets…Lies & Alibis.” Since then the publication of the sequel,
“A Different Kind of Love” and the release of her first volume of poetry,
“Thoughts” an e-book hit the market. In October of 2009, Nanette’s
murder mystery, “Bruised Love” was released. It is her goal to become
a successful author without limits. Writing and producing plays that
feature her poems as well as adaptations of her novels on the “big screen.”
Nanette
is a member of Shared Thoughts Book Club and Authors Supporting Authors.
She is the hostess of ASA’s Blog Talk Internet Radio Show which broadcasts
each month interviewing authors, discussing literary events, publications and
book promotions.
Do you know your Family’s Composition?It was immediately after the sensational “Roots” saga and “The Next Generation” by Alex Haley that many of our families began to embrace the concept of family unity. The family no matter what the composition was celebrated. The history of the blood lines of families became important. We all wanted to know who we belonged to. Who were are
family members? Family trees found new roots and new branches.
The family events, and reunions, though remembered as momentous caused eyebrows to rise and whispers among the elders. There was always the question about the identity of a child or the whereabouts of a missing parent. All talk was kept secret, and only those who needed to know did know. There were families that avoided the whispers and sent the unwed pregnant girl south leaving the baby with relatives after birth. Others found it necessary to turn a blind eye to adulterous acts.
Today we face the same secrets with “baby mama drama” and dead beat dads or moms, single parenting still exists. Adoption, which causes instant separation for some father’s, has been replaced by women who hold their children hostage when the father won’t pay support or is unwilling to commit to a relationship.
As parents we owe our children the connection; a connection to each parent, sibling and family.
In today’s world it is the necessary balance for their foundation; who they are and who they belong to holds answers to who they will be.
Family medical history, both physical and mental becomes unbalanced. It rocks the emotional stability of a child who has no idea about their connection to their parent, their siblings or their heritage.
My debut novel “Family Secrets Lies and Alibi’s” covers this topic adding the drama and suspense that entraps the reader as reality sets in. It could be any family you know, have heard of or belong to. Do the whispers of long held secrets destroy a family? What if the secret of lineage was buried with a parent uncovered by the business one leaves behind, a will an estate? Should you hide who you love?
• What if the truth could rattle the roots of the family tree?
• Is the love for family stronger than the love for self?
The Secrets continue in … “A Different Kind of Love”
I look forward to building a relationship with you. I am available for author's chat and signings, a discussion with me and giveaways. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, concerns, or suggestions. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, about booking arrangements, or networking opportunities feel free to contact me at
ipendesigns@gmail.com
About the Author
Nanette M. Buchanan was born, raised and educated in Newark, New Jersey. After graduating from Arts High School in Newark she attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It was then that she first set her pen to pad, written expressions of her love for poetry. She is a proud mother, wife and grandmother, now residing in Somerset, New Jersey.
Her pad to pen accomplishments include three volumes of poetry; Thoughts, Thoughts & Reflections, and Quiet Times; five children stories and seven novels. Nanette’s first published work and debut novel was “Family Secrets….Lies & Alibis. ”
Since then the publication of the sequel, “A Different Kind of Love” and the release of her first volume of poetry, “Thoughts” an e-book hit the market. In October of 2009, Nanette’s murder mystery, “Bruised Love” was released. It is her goal to become a successful author without limits. The author is available for personal appearances, chats and signings.
Books by Author Nanette M. Buchanan
• Bruised Love
• A Different Kind of Love
• Family Secrets, Lies & Alibis
Even so, there are those of us who hunger for good Black literature.
A while back, I read a report stating that, as African Americans, we are the only people in the world that other countries and nationalities like to imitate—from our fashion, to our speech, to our music, to our sports, and now, even to our literature.
My question is this: Why shouldn’t we own where we dominate? Why shouldn’t we own our own sport teams? Our own Black films, to name a few?
Which brings me to this point. Why is it that we don’t own the black book industry now that we’re making inroads? Is it because we don’t have enough publishers? Literary agents? And why are we allowing other cultures to determine the image of what we send out to the world in our literature?
In the same manner that the Big 5 publishers in New York gained wealth over the past 100 years, I believe African American publishers can gain economic empowerment and wealth as well.
I recently interviewed an author who left a major New York publishing house to return to self-publishing because she refused to fill her books with sex and drama. I read a lot of books, including white literature, and I do not see other ethnic books filled with sensationalism. Why should our craft be lessened?
In the past our image has been set by what we read in the white text books, the white newspapers, or saw on TV. In the main, Blacks were not the decision makers.
Sadly, our image is out of shape because we are not the ones who shaped it. But, in this day and age, where we finally have a role in shaping our image, we often project only the most abject parts of our culture. We see this played out in the insidious influences found in the videos, songs and books, denigrating women, glorifying crime, and pushing genocide.
In order for us to set the record straight for the world, it is important that we write and tell our story. It’s going to take African American writers to reshape our image. Why?
We do not own Black Television, and most of our black radios have died out in recent history.
Besides the Internet, the only avenue we have to raise our voices is what we write and what our black newspapers write about us.
What is our black media is going to do to counteract the forces which have misshaped our history?
It is important that we hold writers, newspapers, and any form of media that project the image of black people accountable for what they project.
In order for us to save our people, we must change our image. If we won’t, then who will? If not now, then when?
For it’s not too late to pick up the pen. To rephrase the late Renaissance writer,
composer, photographer, film director, Gordon Parks, let’s use our pen as our weapon of choice, and turn this image around.
Meet the Author:
Dr. Maxine E. Thompson is a novelist, poet, columnist, short story writer, book reviewer, an editor, ghostwriter, Internet Radio Show Host, and a Literary Agent. She is the author of The Ebony Tree, No Pockets in a Shroud, A Place Called Home (A Short Story Collection), The Hush Hush Secrets of Writing Fiction That Sell, a contributor to bestselling anthologies Secret Lovers, All in The Family, and Never Knew Love Like This Before, (Also a Kindle Bestseller), Proverbs for the People.
ARE YOU STEPPING OUT ON FAITH WITH YOUR WRITING
by Marc Lacy
It is so funny how some people make a big to do about the fact that they decided to step out on faith and write full time. But what they failed to mention, is the fact that their spouse is making $300,000 a year. With that being the case, not only are the ends meeting – they’re colliding! So technically, this is not stepping out on faith. This is what you call stepping out on knowing you will have funds. Not that there is anything wrong with that. But when you actually decide to step out faith, make sure you step out on faith, and not stupid. Remember, just because it worked for someone else, does not guarantee that it will work for you. There is a “chance” that it will work for you. Everyone’s situation is different. There are different forces and different factors that help nudge the landscape of how things play out in your literary life.
Before you tell your boss to “take this job and shove it” make sure that you have a solid foundation in place to provide the support you need as you take your literary endeavor to another level. For instance, when someone is a full-time writer, it does not necessarily equate to them only writing and collecting a royalty check while living happily ever after. Now some people have paid their dues and have experienced the bumps and bruises that come with authorship…so they have basically earned the right to do the aforementioned. However, the percentage is very small. With that being said, there are various components that you could put into play to assist your fulltime writer aspiration.
Alongside writing and publishing books, you could actually make a living conducting workshops, engaging in public speaking, and writing copy for various companies. These are just a few of the ways you could sustain yourself financially while developing all aspects of your full time writing career. Money certainly is not the only important thing here; but you need it to live. You also need funding to nurture the development of your writing in every phase applicable. There is nothing like earning a living while developing essential skills within your craft.
Remember, there is no such thing as an overnight rockstar author. This is a big misconception. Yes, we are living in a literary age and yes just about “everyone” is publishing books and writing now. Some are actually making a good buck in the literary industry. There are some hot topics out here in our crazy world and people are taking advantage of human attraction to crazy, shocking, and alluring stories and subject matter. Trends and fads are two major factors that are heavy influences within several industries, especially fashion, music and literature. Unfortunately a trend goes out as quickly as it comes in. Like an aggressive stock, there is potential for quick and extreme success as well as quick and extreme failure. You cannot be angry with someone for taking advantage of a trend because they are just giving the people what they want right?
The industry is wide open and if some just want to make that paper, then so be it. Do not waste any of your time and energy downing them if that is their focus. None of us are the law in terms of literary genres, so we cannot drag anybody to trial for capitalizing on their rights for creative expression. However, you are encouraged to put yourself in a position to where trends and fads will impact; but not control your writing. In essence, if you focus on good writing and improving the quality of your writing, you will establish “staying power” in the literary world. Your writing will be so solid that people will be able to enjoy it down the line as we incur various phases and changes within overall writing styles and subject matter that people are attracted to.
Finally, if you step out on faith in your literary career, quality writing should be your main focus. Every step you take and every breath you make should illustrate your hunger for improved writing. If you conduct writing workshops, not only will you help others with their writing, you are also helping yourself. Should you engage in public speaking, it should be a reflection of how serious you are about writing. When you land that contract to write copy for a company, it would be yet another tool in the chest to assist you with high quality writing. Your literary shoes should be so big, that absolutely no one can fill them. Step out, and step high!
About the Author
Marc Lacy, a graduate of Alabama A&M University is a nationally renown, award winning poet/author and spoken word artist. He has performed all of over the country for many national literary events and spoken word venues. Marc is the author of Rock & Fire - Love Poetry from The Core, and The Looking Heart - Poetic Expressions from Within. He is also the producer of REFlux, RTIQLation, and LyriCode 256 spoken word CDs. Marc is the contributor to many anthologies such as: The Soul of a Man, Step up to The Mic, and Witness the Truth.
Marc is a member of ArtNSoul Society of Expression, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Church Street CPCA, Huntsville Literary Association, and National Society of Black Engineers. He credits his faith in God and love of family for providing energy to succeed.
Share
with us your news, events and articles. Black
Pearls Magazine is a online, bi-weekly updated magazine which gives voice to
the issues that drive our national conversation. Our readership is thoughtful,
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quality. With that in mind, we seek thoughtful, well-researched articles and
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number of different viewpoints. We welcome all writers to send their work!
If
you would like to submit articles for the Black Pearls Magazine, please check
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Reviewers receive books from EDC Creations’ publishing partners monthly.
You can review our policy for book reviewers by
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Curry and EDC Creations celebrates the rise of book clubs in the publishing
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Your book club and network of friends are invited to check all the great authors
in the Bookclub Reading Room and to explore
the magazine for your next featured book of the month. Email Ella Curry for more
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Blog Tour Hosts
and Radio Hosts Each
month EDC Creations hosts a tour of 5 wonderful authors. We travel across the
web sharing our message of Give the Gift of Knowledge. We are now seeking
bloggers, book clubs and book lovers to host the authors on their websites,
blogs or radio shows. If you would like to feature authors on your website or
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Please take a moment to view our previous tour
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you have a great business that serves our community? Tell Black Pearls Magazine
about it! We are seeking community leader interviews. We showcase 5 business
owners per month. Email Ella Curry for more details at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
The
Black Pearls Magazine family wants to take the time to thank each of you for
joining us monthly in celebrating the best in literature and the arts. Our
team of writers, bookclubs and authors are so humbled that you have allowed us
entrance into your life. It amazes me each month as I check our subscribers how
many of you deem us worthy of your time and support.
We
appreciate each of you for telling 10 people about the magazine and for driving
people to this site. YOU make Black Pearls the magnificent publication that it
is, by sharing the gift of knowledge!
Please
know, as we prepare each issue for you, we look for those stimulating
conversations, the most thought provoking articles and most of all the best
books on the shelves. We want each page of this magazine to add value to your
lives! Your comments and feedback are welcomed. Join our
blog and share your news, advice and wisdom with the other readers. Tell us
what you want to read too!
As we take off in this new decade we hope to bring you more provocative topics
and life empowering books to shape your lives. We have contest for the readers
and more interactive sections added to the magazine. Let us know what you think
of the fresh new content by emailing
us here. Thank you!
Ella Curry, President of EDC Creations
Founder & Editor In Chief Black Pearls Magazine
Do you know your Family’s Composition? It was immediately after the sensational “Roots” saga and “The Next Generation” by Alex Haley that many of our families began to embrace the concept of family unity. The family no matter what the composition was celebrated. The history of the blood lines of families became important. We all wanted to know who we belonged to. Who were are
family members? Family trees found new roots and new branches. 
Body image.
It’s an issue that most women struggle with at some point in our lives—I know I certainly have, and still do. During my 20’s everything was perky and tight. I ate whatever I wanted and I still looked pretty good. When I entered my 30’s I began to notice subtle changes. Things weren’t as they had been a decade before, but, it was still all good! When I slid into my 40’s reality started kicking in, my metabolism slowed down, and I found myself wondering what had happened to my body. Even shopping, one of my favorite pastimes, became challenging. 
It’s important to be healthy, no matter your body size. There are thin women who are grossly out of shape and haven’t an ounce of cardio endurance, while there are overweight women who are fit and can run circles around their thinner counterparts. As I’ve gotten older, I realize how much more important it is to feel good than to look good (but for the record, I do like to look good, too!). I’ve also learned that educating yourself about proper diet and exercise, and incorporating both into your daily lifestyle is essential at any age. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables, drinking plenty of water, and moving your body in some sort of aerobic activity for at least 30 minutes a day can make all the difference in the world. When we do good things for our bodies we get great result. And when we love what’s on the inside, that’s an unbeatable feeling!
If the above title sounds like an oxymoron, well, it is. But that title is my story and I’m sticking to it! Confusing, I know, but I think you might understand the phrase once you understand my journey.
About the Author
Kevin Kennard gazed into the precious face of his newborn son, the offspring
of the intoxicating love he shared with his wife, Simone. Closing his
eyes, Kevin whispered a prayer of thanks. Life had given him a second
chance at happiness far greater than anything he'd fathomed from inside the
concrete walls of his prison cell. While Kevin and Simone bask in their
familial bliss, those scorned by their union collect the pieces to their
shattered hearts and plot the couple's demise.
Ivette Attaud, publisher, a gifted author, highly sought-after motivational speaker and domestic violence expert, developed
Healing The Body Before The Spirit, a domestic abuse educational workshop for the faith-based community.
She has written numerous articles, including a recently-published article entitled
Surviving the Loss of a Child for Spotlight On Recovery Magazine. More information can be found online at:
BPM: What inspired you to write your first
book, My Life, My Soul? How did you come up with the title? Who designed
the book cover?
In More Than Meets The Eye, they are among us, and some have evil intentions. Belinda Wilson awakens one morning to find her body covered in scratches and bruises, with dried blood clinging to her skin, and knows that what is happening to her is more than just tricks of the mind. 
She’s a savvy, successful real-estate agent with a quick wit, a low tolerance for BS, and a gorgeous size-14 body. Despite her dream house, luxury car, and appetite for life’s best—like fine dining and hot men—she seems to have her own special talent for attracting players. Why do all of her ex-lovers belong in the Losers Hall of Fame? 
Meet the Author
About the Author
Rain
grapples with memories of a horrific past that leaves her far from unscathed.
After witnessing her mother’s gruesome murder as a child, she is now left piecing together the fragments of her shattered psyche as an adult.
Quickly, she is drowning in years of frustration and confusion with no promise of relief.
Sinister visions and undying spirits haunt Rain relentlessly, driving her deeper into darkness and lunacy.
Rain’s grandmother, GiGi, tries her best to help Rain face the truth, urging her to confront her past, but the past is too painful—it’s easier to hide. 
Secrets. Lies. Half-Truths. A poignant tale of a circle of close knit friends whose lives are more intertwined than they realize. That is until the blurred lines of Love, Lust and Friendship begins to reveal the half-truths and lies that exist. Will the secrets they all hold from the past ruin their friendship and lives forever?
About the Author 
Intro:
Sabor a Mi -- Love is the last thing on ballroom instructor Melody Walker’s mind. Her parent’s storybook marriage has been torn apart by her father’s one-time act of infidelity. Her brother, a leading local conservative, nearly ran his own marriage off the rails with a woman known to the world as “Nazi Barbie.” 
About the Author
Ellery Martin-Roulet, a 35-year-old American public relations executive living and working in Paris has the perfect life. She is married to a handsome Frenchman, has adorable twin daughters and a successful bilingual PR firm located in one of Paris’ trendiest arrondissements. Unfortunately, Ellery soon realizes that life isn’t always perfect. When betrayal, loss, and regrets enter Ellery’s world at five different periods of time over a ten-year span, she quickly learns that it is how she chooses to deal with life’s trickiest situations that shapes her soul. 
About Carolyn Moncel
"Making
a way out of no way" is the lifestyle attitude that Ivory Tabb lives by
everyday. From negotiating million dollar contracts to planning high profile
celebrity events, Ivory has successfully thrust her way to the top of the
entertainment arena as a successful talent agent, TV personality and much more.
She has worked with some of today’s biggest entertainers and athletes
including Adrian Peterson, Deion Sanders, Shaquille O’Neal, Tony Romo, Brian
McKnight, Michael Phelps and Chris Paul. 
Beautiful Ugly
by Shelia E. Lipsey 
Karma by Tash Hawthorne
Cheetah by Missy Jackson
The Buzz by Stefanie Newell
How to Kill Your Husband by Keith Thomas Walker
No attention? I know this is not coming from you because your friends and family are ecstatic at the fact that you’ve written a book and are a published author. Your former high school English instructor and her current writer’s guild have been following you as you’ve become versed in article publishing and blogging. Meanwhile, your name has a certain “buzz” attached to it via the internet and your popularity has been increasing gradually.
About
Author Nanette Buchanan
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