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A Taste Of Soul at Black
Pearls
Welcome!
Monthly we shine the spotlight on guest columnists from
our newsletter, we are showcasing our bookclub
presidents, our authors shared special book
excerpts for you, as we bring you
inspiration and good cheer. Please explore all the books on the sidebars,
click on all the links and most of all, share what you learn today with your
network. Enjoy this special magazine designed with each of you in
mind. View all of the bookclub interviews here.
Tantalizing stories, memorable characters, provocative storylines are all here!
We bring you the hottest titles released by the most talented authors, writers, and poets of the craft. Join us in daily
book chats on Facebook, listen to incredible audio book
previews, and help us expose great books to the world!
Ella D. Curry, editor-in-chief Black Pearls Magazine
President of
EDC Creations Media Group
EDC Creations website: www.edc-creations.com
Join the Sankofa Literary Society Today!
Women
Rock by Electa Rome Parks
If I had the
opportunity to live my life over, I would like to come back as a woman, again,
without hesitation.
That's a fact. I
adore being a woman and all that entails. Phenomenal Woman by Maya Angelou sums
it up beautifully.
It's the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
I think women are the most powerful,
special and divine creatures on earth and some of the best and meaningful times
of my life have been spent in the company of my sister friends.
There
is nothing quite like the society of womanhood that nurtures, protects, grooms
and loves with so much passion and distinction.
I am who I am and what I am today
because of life lessons learned at the knees of my mother, aunts and female
cousins. I am a strong, resilient, independent and self-sufficient woman because
of them. I pray that someday someone will be able to say the same of me.
Over the years, I have developed friendships with a small number of girlfriends
that will last a lifetime. I love them like a sister and they love me back even
when we get on each other's nerves. However, that's the beauty of it all. They
have been there for me through thick and thin, flowing tears of joy and sadness,
wonderful triumphs and devastating tragedy. My best girlfriends have comforted
me during the death of my mother, celebrated my marriage and rejoiced in the
birth of my children. There is so much history and that means everything to
me…they know me as well as I know myself.
Girl talk over the phone that lasts for hours, unbridled laughter and gossip
over drinks and dinner, making a six-hour road trip just because I asked,
checking in on me when I'm not feeling well, supporting my dreams as if they are
their own.
There is truly something spectacular
that encompasses a genuine circle of women. There is magic and power in their
midst that rises up and transforms.
Not too long ago, I recall reading a short passage via the Internet; someone
forwarded it to me. It focused on advice an elderly grandmother gave to her only
granddaughter the night before her big wedding. She calmly and cautiously told
her granddaughter no matter what happened in life, never let go of her friends.
The young, soon to be bride reflected on how much she adored her future husband
and how she couldn’t wait to have his children; he was all she needed in her
life. Then the grandmother wisely explained: Husbands may come and go, children
grow up and take on lives of their own, but friendship, true friendship, is
everlasting. Cling to it.
Sure enough, years later, the granddaughter and her husband had divorced, the
children had graduated from college with careers and families of their own, but
the granddaughter had adhered to her grandmother’s advice and clung to her
friends. They, her friends, were still there. . . through it all.
In
my newest release, True
Confessions, readers will appreciate the genuine ‘best friends
forever’ friendship of Kennedy and Taylor. They
are two friends who have each other’s back through thick and thin.
There is a genuine love and solid bond
that has existed since their college days and has transcended beyond being
simply friends, they are family. Neither is perfect and they both come with
their childhood baggage, but their friendship is an anchor that is solid.
I'll say it again, from the bottom of my heart,
women rock!
Some of my fondest memories revolve around food and family.
All of the women surrounding me were great cooks: my mother, grandmother, aunts, older sister.
The kitchen was a gathering place filled with love, gossip and tasty treasures.
Cooking was fun, and a process I initially learned almost by osmosis at my mama’s elbow. Tish, pour me this.
Get me that. Measure me out a cup of flour. Stir the soup in that pot.
Check those rolls in the oven. How are they looking? Stuff like that.
The love of cooking was passed down and with it, a little pressure. For years I thought if I measured anything my grandmother would roll over in her grave. (I’ve since learned that measuring has its distinct advantages, like recipes made perfectly every time!) But I guess these experiences laid the foundation for me being a chef in my own mind, often hosting my own cooking show while preparing a meal (yes, this includes talking to myself, translated audience, as I slice and dice), and even once submitting a tape to a food channel. I wanted to be the Next Food Network Star! :)
My family is from Arkansas by way of South Carolina and the food we ate was heavily influenced by this region. In the 60s, these typically southern dishes were coined “soul food,” and are defined as such to this day. Just like the characters in my latest work,
All Up In My
Business, we regularly feasted on southern standards: greens and cornbread, turnips, beans, yams, macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, chicken and dumplings and some of my favorite desserts—apple cobbler, pecan, sweet potato and lemon icebox pie!
My mouth is watering just remembering the Sunday spreads containing one or all of the above, along with offerings for which I never developed a palate: chitterlings, ox tails, liver, ham hocks and hog jowls.
These latter dishes, along with seeing my grandmother “ring” the neck of our evening meal and then watch said chicken flop around headless, is probably one of the reasons I’m a vegetarian today! But man oh man did this food taste delicious. My favorites still do, now created sans meat, lard and often dairy. The results? Tasty and healthy. Now that’s a true yum-O!
The roots of soul food cuisine can be traced back to Africa where in the 14th century, interestingly enough, these natives maintained a primarily vegetarian lifestyle. What? Who knew! Many of their native ingredients, such as rice, okra, and dark leafy greens became meal staples for those who travelled from Africa as slaves.
During this trans-Atlantic transition however, their relatively healthy diet consisting of lots of vegetables and little meat, changed drastically. Having to make do with leftovers in their new country Africans, and some equally unfortunate Europeans, transformed their former cuisine to fit the ingredients now at their disposal.
Pork replaced the nuts and seeds that were formerly used as seasonings and thickeners, game such as “coon” and “possum” became meat staples, and once slaves began to cook in the big house, modern standards such as fried chicken and mashed potatoes were added to the typical lunch or dinner menu.
In the 17th century, somebody in North Carolina threw a piece of pork marinated in what was then used to preserve fresh meat—vinegar, salt and various peppers— over an open fire.
Barbeque was born and, baby! A plate of soul food never looked the same! These dishes, often created from leftovers and throwaway scraps, are now celebrated as gourmet.
I can see my dad now, smacking his lips and shaking his head while sopping a fresh-baked, buttery biscuit into a saucer of sorghum molasses.
“This is good eating, girl,” he’d say. Of course, he’d also say that after taking a bite of pig guts, otherwise known as chitterlings, a declaration that would often send me running from the room with a resounding, “Yuck!”
Yes, we’ve come full circle. Soul food is big business. In the novel All Up In My Business art imitates life. The Livingston family business of soul food chains is thriving, gossip and love still fill the kitchen, the tables are laden with mouth-watering choices and everybody agrees that life is infinitely better with just a little “Taste of Soul!”
About
the Author
Lutishia Lovely
burst on to the scene with Sex In The Sanctuary, a novel that crosses genres and shakes up comfort zones. Billed as the book “where sex and spirituality collide,” the year of its release SITS positioned Lutishia as a Debut Author Finalist at the Southeastern Arts Association’s Literary Awards. The novel was a bestseller on Amazon, Black Expressions and other internet sites and the subsequent books in this ongoing series: Love Like Hallelujah, A Preacher’s Passion, Heaven Right Here, Reverend Feelgood and Heaven Forbid, have enjoyed tremendous success as well, and have made her a popular guest with book clubs, magazines and radio stations.
Thankful to be living her dream, Lutishia is also humbled to be the voice for so many who feel silenced. From molestation, homosexuality and infidelity in ministry to her latest series,
The Business, that examines the dynamics of dysfunction among family and society, she approaches each topic with compassion and unconditional love—offering a safe place for those who’ve experienced such challenges to come forward and be “seen,” and also encouraging dialogue along with the space for healing and understanding. “You’re the only you that we will ever see,” she says, in celebration of individual uniqueness.
“To thine own self be true or, in other words…do you.”
Currently, Lutishia is busy at work on her second series, which features All Up In My Business, Mind Your Own Business, and Taking Care Of Business. Fans of the Hallelujah Love series will be happy to know that that series continues in 2012.
My
name is Roxanne and I work for a company that maintains a website on Nursing
schools called Nursingschools.net. We recently published an article called
"10
Greatest Novels for Nurses" that I thought would fit perfectly
with readers who love medical themed stories and for nurses who want to relax
with a good book. I would like to share the 10 books below.
One great way to escape the pressures and stresses of nursing
school or work is to read a great novel. These literary
works, featuring nurses and health care facilities, will provide you with a
much-needed dose of fun and fantasy while reminding you why you chose the
profession in the first place. So if you want to re ignite your passion for
nursing or just spend a wonderful evening kicking back, check out one of these
amazing novels.
1. The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje.
This prize-winning novel was made into a prize-winning movie, but that doesn't
mean the literary version still isn't worth checking out. In it, readers will
find a story about four entangled lives during the last weeks of WWII. At the
center of the drama is the mysterious English patient being cared for by nurse
Hana, a man whose memories slowly reveal a tale of love, betrayal and
redemption.
2. A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway.
If you've never read this literary classic, it's never too late to start. Set in
WWII, the story follows a young soldier named Henry, based loosely on
Hemingway's own wartime experiences. When he becomes injured he finds himself
falling for the elusive nurse Catherine, a complicated and tragic figure. If
you're looking for happy endings, this might not be a good choice, but if you
want a moving portrayal of men and women coming to terms with life, both the
good and the bad, then pick up this read.
3. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.
This book is an incredibly popular read among nurses. Why? The main character,
Claire Randall, is a nurse herself serving in the British Army during WWI. But
this is no traditional novel, as it blends elements of fantasy, romance,
historical fiction and legend to tell Claire's tale. In it, the happily married
Claire finds herself suddenly transported back in time where she meets and falls
in love with another man. Torn between her two loves and two centuries, Claire's
story is one of passion, pain and intrigue that's sure to keep you reading page
after page.
4. The Thin White Line by Craig DiLouie.
While the panic associated with avian and swine flu turned out to be overblown,
the reality is that a pandemic illness could hit and wipe out entire communities
at any time. This novel takes a look at what could and quite possibly would
happen if such an epidemic were to hit Canada. It is a fascinating takes on both
the personal and political ramifications of such a disaster and is a great read
for any nurse with an interest in infectious disease.
5. The Healer's War by Elizabeth Ann Scarborough.
Drawing on her own experiences, Scarborough creates the fictional Kathleen
McCulley in this novel, a nurse on a tour of duty at China Beach in Vietnam.
Dealing with not only healing the battle wounds of soldiers but her own
ambivalence towards the enemy, the racism of her charges and her own personal
battles. While the novel is set on the field of battle, nurses in any profession
will recognize the courage it takes to keep it together in such a stressful
situation.
6. The Glory Cloak: A Novel of Louisa May Alcott and Clara Barton by Patricia
O'Brien.
If you were inspired to become a nurse by historical greats like Clara Barton,
you'll love this fictional take on her life and work that unites her with the
author of the classic novel Little Women. The story follows Alcott and her
fictional cousin Susan as they help join the war effort by becoming nurses,
encountering the battlefield legend Barton in the process. Blending love,
history, friendship and betrayal, the novel is at once engrossing and
enlightening about life and work during the turn of the century.
7. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey.
Think you've got a real piece of work for a coworker? He or she is likely
nothing compared to the tyrannical Nurse Ratched in this classic novel. Kesey's
portrayal of a fictional insane asylum garnered him international acclaim and
numerous awards, and the book is still worth a read today. The story centers on
Patrick McMurphy, a mental patient who antagonizes his nurse and upsets the
daily routine of the other patients, but not without just cause. It is a frank
look at the state of institutional care and a must-read for anyone working in
psychiatric nursing.
8. My Name Is Mary Sutter by Robin Oliveira.
Set in the Civil War, a young midwife leaves home in this novel to seek out the
medical experience she wants in order to help her become a doctor. Readers will
find that she gets what she wished for, with vivid descriptions of medical
treatments common at the time that would seem like torture or mutilation today,
showing just how far we've come with medical advancements.
9. Cherry Ames Nursing by Helen Wells.
This collection of novels was geared towards young girls when it came out in the
40's through the 60's and meant to inspire them to a career in nursing. The
young girl the stories center on is at first a student nurse but later becomes a
full-fledged professional, all while she solves mysteries, stands up for herself
and is a fully independent woman. The novels are surprisingly feminist for their
early publication date, and while they contain some nursing stereotypes are
still fun, inspiring and entertaining reads for anyone working in the field.
10. No Other Medicine by Gail Ghingna Hallas, RN PhD.
Titled after the quote, "the miserable have no other medicine but
hope," this book takes a harsh look at the corruption, ineptitude and
downright cruelty that can take place in the medical profession. The author is a
nurse herself, which helped her create a nice variety of fictional characters
that are richly developed and true to life. While the story was written in the
early 70's, many nurses will sadly recognize that many of the issues she
addresses are still prevalent in hospitals across the nation. A riveting,
compelling (though depressing) novel, it's a great read for anyone with a
passion for health care and patient rights.
About the Guest Contributor
Roxanne McAnn, is a freelance Writer and Blogger. Roxanne regularly
contribute to the http://www.nursingschools.net/blog
which discusses about topics on Medical Education, Nursing Students life,
College life, Career, Research, and Medical Technology. Roxanne would love
to connect with the readers who have enjoyed these books or would like more
info. Please feel free to send her your questions, comments or suggestion to:
rmcann83@gmail.com
Intimate Conversation with K. L. Brady
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.
BPM: Introduce us to your book, The Bum Magnet and the main characters. On Kindle or Nook?
My hilarious but oh-so-real debut romantic comedy/women’s fiction is about Charisse Tyson, who is approaching a major life milestone—her fortieth birthday. She has just broken up with boyfriend number “too many” and reads an article that makes her realize it’s time to assess why she keeps picking players over and over and over again.
But, as it always happens when you make a plan, life happens! And she makes a hilarious but really bad decision that takes her COMPLETELY off course. No sooner than she decides she’ll have nothing more to do with men, they start coming out of the woodwork—a sexy new businessman, ex-boyfriends, and a strange stalker-type that she feels drawn to for some yet unknown reason.
So, she goes against her better instinct and puts herself in the position where she’s got to navigate this minefield of men while trying to work on herself at the same time. The story follows her along this journey. But along the way, she finds out the answer to her problem goes a lot deeper than an appetite for good-looking men and great sex. It’s that realization that helps her shift her life to a new level.
While this story is full of laugh-out-loud funny moments, it also has the kind of page-turning twists and turns that will make it almost impossible to put down once you get into to it. This book has been blamed for many sleepless nights, missed subway and bus stop, and late stays at the office because the people couldn’t move until they finished it.
BPM: What insight does
The Bum Magnet give readers on relationships or one defined topic? Has your view changed since completing your book?
I never set out to convey a message when I wrote this book. I wanted to tell a entertaining story that would keep readers glued to the pages. However, I would have to say that there are definitely several life lessons that all people—both men and women—can take from Charisse’s story.
The first is that when you see yourself repeating the same bad patterns in relationships over and over again, at some point you’ve really got to stop pointing the finger at the people you choose, and start pointing your finger at the one who is doing the choosing—YOU! Sometimes, we’re so wrapped up in the drama of relationships that we don’t see that we’re standing in our own way, and blocking our own blessing, because we’re not dealing with some past hurt or pain. We can’t just sweep our dirt under a beautiful rug, sit some furniture on it, and pretend like it’s not still a hot mess underneath.
And while this is not Christian fiction, this character (despite her occasionally colorful language) is very spiritual and learns a few lessons about leaning on her faith, trusting in herself, honoring her friends and family, and the new “F” You word—forgiveness.
BPM: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people or experiences?
I’m often asked if The Bum Magnet is based on people from my life or my own personal experiences. I think all authors put a piece of themselves in their work. You can’t get as real and truthful as I do in this book without living or watching people live these experiences. So, you’re going to get a taste of some very real situations. However, there are some elements of this novel that I had to make up because if I told what really happened, the book would’ve seemed too unbelievable. Sometimes truth is definitely stranger than fiction!
True story though—when I told my friends and family that I was writing a novel called The Bum Magnet, almost every single one said, “Is it an autobiography???” Now you know I needed to check myself when that happened too many
times. (lol) I’m happy to announce I’m a recovering bum magnet and I’m coming along quite nicely. Thank you very much!
BPM: What compelled or inspired you to write The Bum Magnet? Why now?
I had an Oprah “aha” moment one day in the summer of 2008. I was coming up on my fortieth birthday, feeling like I’d reached some level of success in my life, but I wasn’t really fulfilled. I kept trying new ventures that always seemed to fail.
As I got to thinking about what I wanted to be when I grow up, I was flipping through an edition of the “O” magazine and watching her show when it just hit me that I wasn’t living my best life. I’d always wanted to be a writer. I’d been writing in my diaries and journals since I was maybe seven or eight years old.
Although I have two degrees, I’d always let the fact that i didn’t have a degree in English or any fiction writing experience keep me from starting. But D-Day had arrived. I pushed those negative thoughts out of my head and decided to honor this gift God gave me and write a book about a woman who took stock of her life and decided to make a major change. I wrote the book in four months and edited for or five months.
BPM: What's more important: critical acclaim or popular success amongst the readers?
When I first wrote the novel, I wanted what every author wants, you know. I wanted a six-figure multi-book deal. I wanted to be on Oprah and to make my rounds on the morning show circuit. I wanted to blow kisses to my beloved fans. All that stuff. But let me tell you, the publishing industry is nothing if not a sharp dose of stark reality for most authors.
After querying my book to literary agents all over the country and getting rejection after rejection after rejection, doubting myself and my writing ability, listening to people tell me, “You need to put this book in a drawer and start the next one,” I had a come-to-Jesus moment and I had to decide who was I writing for. Was I writing for the publishing industry? Was I writing for other authors? Or was I writing because I loved writing and had a story to share?
I realized I was writing because I love writing and telling stories and making people laugh. I do feel that was God’s plan for me. So, damn the book deal. I decided to publish my book myself. And if ONE reader’s day was brightened or if they were moved by this story, that would mean I was fulfilling my purpose and God’s purpose for my writing, and that has been my focus ever since. Acclaim is nothing without readers. Acclaim for me is getting that note on Facebook or Twitter saying, “I loved this story” or “Your book helped me realize that I’m a bum magnet” or “I was laughing so much my family thought I was crazy.” That’s acclaim. And I’m gonna have the same measure of success whether I sell one book or one million—my only goal is to touch a reader’s life in some positive way.
And it’s funny that in a way that ONLY God can do, my decision to write for the love of writing and honor my gift from Him is what helped my book deal find me.
When you honor your gifts, you praise God. Honor your gifts—whatever they may be.
BPM: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases. How may our readers follow you online?
Well, The Bum Magnet was picked up by Simon & Schuster and was recently released in paperback at bookstores and retail outlets (including
Wal-Mart) nationwide. It costs less than a #1 at McDonald’s so you’ve got to pick it up! It is also available for e-book readers (like me)—on Kindle, Nook, and the iBookstore for iPad, iPod, etc.
As for awards, it won the Next Generation Indie Book Award for Multicultural Fiction and was the Third Place Grand Prize Winner for Best Fiction of 2010. The African-Americans on the Move Book Club also nominated me for Female Author of the Year and Breakout Author of the Year which was such a tremendous honor.
The sequel to The Bum Magnet, entitled Got a Right to Be Wrong, is finished and submitted to my editor. The story picks up from where The Bum Magnet left off. I can’t give too much away but I will say that in The Bum Magnet, Charisse had two major issues that contributed to her “bum magnetism.”
The first issue is covered in the novel and you’ll have to read to find out what that is.
The second issue—growing up without her father or a male role model—is covered in book two when her day-late-and-dollar-short father decides to re-enter her life. I love this story because it really touches on how it affects women when they don’t have strong, positive father figures in their lives, and how it can affect their relationships and the kinds of men they choose.
Of course, there are other great twists and turns, including what happens to Charisse’s best friend Nisey who got pregnant and had two possible baby’s daddies, a more prominent role for Charisse’s crazy mother Mama Tyson who is on the run from the police, and we find out whether Charisse finally finds her happily-ever-after. ..and does it include a man?
If so, which one? Hmmm.
I’ve also just released my self-published young adult novel called Worst
Impressions. It’s a hilarious romantic comedy about a sharp-witted basketball phenom named Liz Bennett (yes, based on the book Pride and Prejudice) who gets caught in a hilarious love triangle with two popular new boys in her school—one who is fire…and one who she’d like to set on fire. It’s another can’t-put-this-down read for young adults of all ages.
Urban Teens Read called Worst Impressions “Awesome!!!” and “Amazing!” (Those are their exclamation points.) It is on sale on Kindle, Nook, and Smashwords for 99 cents (for a limited time). The paperback version will be on Amazon at the end of April.
Intimate Conversation with Trice Hickman
Hosted by Ella Curry, founder Black Pearls Magazine
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.
BPM: Tell us about your passion for writing. What drives you?
My passion for writing stems from my love of the written word. I love how words, when thoughtfully constructed, can have a profound impact on its reader. I write because it gives me joy! Writing is something you have to love because even when you're good at it, it doesn't always come easy. If you love it, you will continue to do it. Writing is a practice in patience, and writing is re-writing. I'm driven by my desire to be the best "me" that I can be. I continually strive to improve myself as I learn how to appreciate my achievements and grow from my mistakes. I hope that my book can impact readers in a meaningful way.
After reading my Unexpected Interruptions, it is my hope that the story will resonate in such a way that makes the reader think about social issues they've never thought about before, discover a new word they've never heard of, or simply receive hours of enjoyable entertainment. That, to me, is be worth the journey of writing.
BPM: Do you insert your own characteristics in your writing?
I believe that every author imparts a small piece of themselves into the stories we write. That's why writing is such a deeply personal endeavor. However, my characters are not like me. I try to stay away from writing about my life and the lives of people whom I know. Many of my characters have challenges, experiences, and motivations that lead them down roads I would never venture to travel. But, that is the sublime beauty of writing fiction. You can create a world and people within it, who push limits.
BPM: Are writers playing important roles in today’s literary world?
Writers are important in today's world because we create works of art that will stand the test of time. A poem or book can be read over and over again, for both learning and entertainment. In an age of instant gratification and passing fads, writers produce works that will be around long after a picture fades or a game is over because words never die. Words live and breathe. It is important that writers have the opportunity to publish their work because reading is critical. Reading broadens the mind and expands the vocabulary. It educates us, and writers are the catalyst.
BPM: Finish this sentence- "My writing offers the following legacy to future readers..."
My writing offers a legacy to future readers of determination and service to others. I humbly say this because it's not just my words that will hopefully impact future readers, it is my actions. After I completed my first manuscript, I was turned down by every agent and every publisher I had submitted my story to. But I didn't give up on my dream of becoming a publishing author. I went on to publish three books on my own, win several literary awards, make several bestsellers lists, and was eventually offered a book deal from a major publisher. I had faith, and an unflappable belief that I could do anything I set my mind to. And while achieving my goals, I've given back to those in need. I’ve donated money to various charities from the proceeds earned from each book I’ve published. I believe that it's important to help others and share the blessings we receive. It will always come back to you. If I'm able to leave readers the legacy of determination and service, I will be a very happy woman!
BPM: Introduce us to your latest release, Unexpected Interruptions.
Give us the back story on the book and the main characters.
Unexpected Interruptions is a sophisticated, thought-provoking novel that readers won't soon forget. Packed with both touching and humorous moments, this book will make you laugh, cry, and jump with surprise! And ultimately, Unexpected Interruptions, will make you ask serious questions about how race and class impact relationships in our growing multi-cultural society.
Unexpected Interruptions, is a story about making hard choices and finding ones own truth. The main character, Victoria Small, is a smart, savvy black woman who finds herself falling for two men—one black, one white, and she must determine which one to choose. Parker Brightwood is an accomplished surgeon whose ebony good looks sweep Victoria off her feet and mend her once broken heart. Ted Thornton is a powerful, blue-eyed CEO who forms an unlikely friendship with Victoria that both delights and shocks her out of her comfort zone.
Tyler Jacobs is Victoria ’s best friend who is stuck in a loveless marriage until he decides to take matters into his own hands and fight for the one thing he’s always wanted. In addition to these main characters, Unexpected Interruptions, is filled with a colorful cast of secondary players who add spice to this richly layered tale.
BPM: What situation or revelation prompted you to write your book?
Initially, I wanted to write a story that we seldom see or read about—the platonic, best-friend relationship between a black man and a black woman. But the story quickly turned into something else. There is still the wonderful relationship that Victoria and Tyler share, but it’s not the crux of the book. I didn’t set out to write a story with an interracial arc, but the characters took on a life of their own, so I went with it. The relationship unfolded in a very organic way, and I think that is what makes it so real.
BPM: Take us inside the book, Unexpected Interruptions. What are two major events taking place?
Wow, let me see…I’d have to say the two major events that set the tone for intense conflict, is when Parker Brightwood returns from a medical peace keeping mission in Kenya, and when Victoria finally decides to quite her job, step out on faith, and start her own business. Upon Parker’s return from Africa , all hell breaks loose stemming from a seemingly small incident that later escalates into a tidal wave, and doesn’t stop until someone gets hurt. When Victoria finds the courage to leave her job, that decision teaches her a lesson about politics, and who is really in her corner. Both of these events come at pivotal moments in the book that inspire action on the part of the characters, which in turn, results in drama and takes readers on a fast-paced ride.
BPM: Who were your favorites? Are they the portrayal of real people?
Hmmm...I'd have to say my favorite character in the book was Tyler Jacobs. Tyler was Victoria 's best friend. He loved and supported her through thick and thin, told her the hard truth when she needed to hear it, and let her lean on him when she couldn't stand on her own. That's a true friend, and he shows us that a man and woman can be friends without having romantic strings attached. I know this kind of relationship is possible because my best friend is a man. And while the arc of this story isn’t the story of my relationship with my best friend, it's modeled after something that I know exists and needs to be told.
BPM: What was the most powerful chapter in the book for you to write?
Great question! Without giving away too much of the story, the most powerful chapter for me to write was the part when Victoria was a little girl and she discovers a shameful secret from her family’s past that haunts her into adulthood. This part of the story is powerful because it clearly demonstrates how words and actions can leave emotional scars that are hard to heal.
BPM: Who do you want to reach with Unexpected Interruptions and the message within?
I want to reach women who are at a crossroads in their lives; who are either unsure about how to pursue their dreams and make them a reality, or who have given up on finding that special someone who can help them as they journey to get there. I believe this story will resonate with women from many walks of life because like the main character, today’s working woman faces similar challenges and struggles—balancing career and family, pursuing their dreams, and navigating relationship woes. Ultimately, I hope this story will leave them encouraged and inspired.
BPM: How will reading your book shape the readers lives? What should they do next?
Unexpected Interruptions, addresses issues of race and interracial dating, skin color bias in the black community, class stratification, family dysfunction, and the complications that arise from office romances and politics in the workplace.
I believe that after reading Unexpected Interruptions, readers will challenge conventional norms, long-held myths, and perceived stereotypes that center around race and class.
By the end of the book, readers will look at these issues and how they impact relationships, in a more discerning and thoughtful way. Things are not always as they appear, and the characters and situations in this book demonstrate that.
BPM: What do you think makes your book different from others on the same subject?
This story delves deep into sensitive issues of race and class, and examines them in meaningful way. A good example is the way skin-color bias is addressed. It is still a pervasive and touchy issue in the black community; light skin versus dark skin, and the perceptions of beauty associated with each. The book also addresses the myth about white men not being as well endowed as black men. These topics are just two of many that make Unexpected Interruptions, a raw, honest, and eye-opening experience for the reader. It's real talk about real life, and taboos are addressed head on through the colorful characters who are so real they jump off the page.
BPM: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your Unexpected
Interruptions?
First and foremost, I want readers to enjoy the book and be glad they took the journey with the characters. I want to reach women who are at a crossroads in their life; who are either unsure about how to pursue their dreams and make them a reality, or who have given up on finding that special someone who can help them as they journey to get there. I believe this story will resonate with women from many walks of life because like the main character, today’s working woman faces similar challenges and struggles—balancing career and family, pursuing their dreams, and navigating relationship woes. Ultimately, I hope this story will leave them encouraged and inspired.
BPM: Share with us your latest news or upcoming book releases.
I'd be happy to! I'm really excited because while Unexpected Interruptions, is my debut novel, it's not the only book I've written. I’ve self-published three novels, and I recently signed a book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books). All three of my originally self-published novels will be re-released by Kensington (beginning with Unexpected Interruptions, March 2011). This means that my work will now be available to a wider, broader audience of readers.
I’m currently writing my fourth book, and I'm also working on a few web based projects that will be available in a few months (more to come on that soon!). I'm also offering coaching sessions for aspiring writers that will guide them through the often complicated process of writing, publishing, promoting, and selling their own book.
Love with No Limits Trilogy
Unexpected Interruptions by Trice Hickman
Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies by Trice Hickman
Playing the Hand You're Dealt by Trice Hickman
Intimate
Conversation with Nikkea Smithers
Nikkea
Smithers is a dynamic award winning and Essence Magazine bestselling writer
and spoken word artist, originally from Connecticut , currently residing in
Richmond , VA. She has released several novels, poetry compilations and has
contributed to several anthologies. Her writing style is unique as she uses her
ability to play on words throughout each project. Her novels flair with the
explicit details of life told through her characters’ eyes. Visit the
author's website at: www.nikkeasmithers.com
for more book excerpts and event details.
BPM: What makes you powerful as a person and a writer? What drives you to
write?
I truly believe in walking by faith and not by sight. I trust in God to direct
me in whatever way he sees fit. I often write books so far in advance with no
real clue as to when I may release it because I wait until my faith leads me to
move in that direction. When it comes to my writing, I'm driven by the message,
even as I push myself in different genres, the message is the guide.
BPM: What have you realized about yourself since becoming a published author?
I've discovered that I can't put a lid on my creativity. I have learned that
there is power and freedom in just doing. I'm inspired daily just with the fact
that I'm doing it, I'm living my dream and refuse to let any obstacle stop me.
BPM: Besides the creative process, what is the most gratifying aspect of
being a writer?
When I get feedback from readers and they 'get' my vision and share my
excitement I am in awe. Writing is my form of therapy so to know that I've
touched someone else's life with what I had in me is very liberating!
BPM: Do you have any advice for people seeking to publish a book?
Research, follow your hearts desire, and do it! Anything worth having in life
will be a challenge, your job is to not let that challenge stifle your hearts
desire.
BPM: How do you define success or personal happiness?
Success is meeting your own personal goals, not defining your life by someone
else's mile markers. We are truly happy when we do what we desire, nourish what
makes us feel good, and don't live with regrets because every experience is a
learning curve.
BPM: Hot Seat: Share with us one thing most readers don’t know about you?
I am a Master of All Trades. I'm a licensed hairdresser, spoken word artist,
actress, graphic artist, marketing and finance specialist, jewelry maker, music
producer, music engineer, mentor, motivational speaker, I've even done
professional modeling. I believe if something interest me, nothing can stop me
from learning it (often self-teaching) and mastering it before I move on to the
next.
Joan
Early grew up in Woodville, Mississippi and began writing after a long
career in mortgage banking and mortgage law. Her first completed short story won
first place in Ebony Magazine’s literary contest. Joan’s family history and
travels help fill the pages of her four published paperbacks and a published
E-book. Joan continues writing in the tranquility of her home in the Houston
suburb of Kingwood, Texas.
BPM: What makes you powerful as a person and a writer? What drives you to
write?
Ans. Humility and a profound love for the printed word. Writing keeps me focused
on the world I create, which is often less stressful and intimidating than
reality.
BPM: Do you insert your own characteristics in your writing?
Ans. Yes. I use the strength, compassion, and tolerance that I continue
developing in my life to shape the characters I create.
BPM: Besides the creative process, what is the most gratifying aspect of
being a writer?
Ans. Knowing that someone has benefited from my struggles, or from a suggestion
or storyline in one of my works. I received an email from a reader who praised
my descriptive narratives in Oak Bluffs, and said it brought back wonderful
memories of her childhood summers in Martha’s Vineyard. That was a good
feeling.
BPM: Hot seat: Share with us one thing most readers don’t know about you?
Ans. My one regret in life is not becoming the first black female on the Supreme
Court.
BPM: Introduce us to your book, Oak Bluffs, and
the main characters. What genre is the book? On Kindle or Nook?
Ans. Oak Bluffs is set in fetchingly beautiful and historic Martha’s
Vineyard, with side trips to bustling New York City, and the sprawling plains of
Texas. Martha’s Vineyard is filled with African American and Native American
history.
The main characters are Lacey Daigle, a privileged New Yorker
who tries to reconnect with her family roots, and wealthy rancher John Jacob
Tobias who abandons his identity after his wife’s death, and poses as riding
instructor Monroe Faulkner, a man he greatly admired. Oak Bluffs is contemporary
romantic fiction, available on Nook and Kindle.
BPM: Who do you want to reach with your book and the message within?
Ans. The goal in all of my writings is to create interesting characters that
remain in the reader’s hearts long after the book is closed. Oak Bluff’s
message to those still searching for fulfillment, happiness, and love is open
your heart and never give up.
BPM: Share with us a quote or brief excerpt from one of the most powerful
characters in Oak Bluffs.
Ans. Monroe’s (John’s) feelings after spending time with Lacey. He watched
her with the excitement that only love can bring. Their time alone had been
marvelous and he wanted more. After months of longing to touch her, he now knew
how it felt, and that was a feeling he never wanted to lose.
Oak Bluffs (Indigo Love Stories) by Joan Early
ISBN-10: 1585713791
ISBN-13: 978-1585713790
Web Address: www.joanearly.com
PYNK
is the best-selling author of three erotica titles and winner of the 2008
YOUnity award for both the Fastest Rising Literary Star and Author of the Year.
Hachette Books released the first title, Erotic City, in November 2008.
Erotic City was a finalist for a 2009 African-American Literary Award in the
category of erotica and voted one of the Best Reads for 2008 by Black
Expressions.
The second title, Sexaholics, about four women
addicted to sex, hit the shelves on March 23, 2010 and was voted among the 2010
Best Books by the Sankofa Literary Society.
The third PYNK title, Sixty-Nine, about three women
born in 1969 who are about to turn the big 4-0, came out on March 25, 2011.
Politics Escorts Blackmail follows in 2012.
Each steamy PYNK title is set in a different city - Atlanta, Los Angeles,
Miami, New York, and soon in Las Vegas and Dallas. Allow yourself to
live your sexy dreams through the words of PYNK, as her characters are sure to
make a fictional appearance in your city soon.
BPM: Who are your mentors? Where do you find your inspiration?
Some of my mentors have been those who came before me, not hands on but showing
by example, like Octavia Butler, Terry McMillan, James Baldwin, and Stephen
King. Today, I've learned much from talented author-friends like Mary B.
Morrison, Eric Jerome Dickey, and Victoria Christopher Murray, among others. My
love of writing inspires me by piquing my curiosity in certain topics,
motivating me to breathe life into characters so I can explore their journeys in
my mind's eye. That's exciting!
BPM: What have you realized about yourself since becoming a published author?
I've realized that I am very effective at managing the reclusive times that are
absolutely necessary when it comes to writing - some can't. I know when it's
time to shut down the computer and see to my needs and connect with others, and
I have great people in my life who understand and respect my deadlines. I'm very
disciplined and the life of a writer suits me well.
BPM: What is the most rewarding aspect of your career?
The most rewarding part of my career is hearing from readers. I so enjoy
connecting with readers who've taken the time to not only read my works, but to
also sign my guestbook, send emails, share their lives, post reviews, or come
out and meet me. I'm honored and appreciative. My readers make me smile big!
BPM: Do you have any advice for people seeking to publish a book?
Study the craft of writing and do the research on the business of publishing,
whether you self-publish of accept an offer. Also, ask yourself if writing is
your passion. Would you do it for free? If the answer is yes, then do the work,
stay disciplined, develop a think skin, manage the lifestyle, be patient, and
work toward making a living at it.
BPM: If you were not a writer, what would you be?
If I was not a writer I would be either an interior decorator or a professional
bowler. I love both - do what you love!
BPM: When you have completed a project, how do you celebrate?
I celebrate by making sure to enjoy my favorite meal, along with a chilled glass
of wine champagne. I take a long bubble-bath, perhaps enjoy a massage, and make
sure to get away somewhere out of town for a while with someone I love, just
relaxing and recharging until the next one.
BPM: Hot Seat-- share with us ONE detail about you or a hobby readers would
enjoy.
Detail: I was a commercial actress and my first acting job was a one-on-one
scene with legendary actress Angela Lansbury, who's the most beautiful and
patient spirit I've ever met. She sat nearby and chased away the butterflies,
even when she wasn't in the scene. I'll never forget her.
BPM:
Introduce us to your book, SIXTY-NINE and the characters. On Kindle or
Nook?
In my third title, SIXTY-NINE, Magnolia Butler, Rebe Richardson and Darla Clark
are about to turn the big 4-0. They're all born in 1969 (thus the
title). They've been best friends since high school and have lived
life on the safe side of the street, especially when it comes to sex.
SIXTY-NINE is a coming-of-age story of sisterhood and
friendship, and about how our upbringing and experiences shape our ideas about
life, sometimes leaving us unfulfilled and dissatisfied, though it can also be
true that some things are better off left alone. One New Year's Eve,
these three best friends make a vow to go beyond their boundaries and the
outcomes change their lives forever. SIXTY-NINE is erotica,
available in trade paperback, and on Kindle and Nook.
BPM: Take us inside SIXTY-NINE. What are two major events taking
place?
1) Darla Clark has been a widow for five years and has been celibate since her
husband's death. She's at a crossroads as far as whether to move on, or continue
to show respect to her husband's memory by never again sharing her heart or body
with anyone, just as her father has done ever since Darla's conservative mother
passed away. The toughest part for Darla is that when her husband died, she was
in bed with him.
2) Magnolia Butler is in a make-up to break-up relationship with Mr. Wrong whose
name is Neal Graham, whom she just can't seem to shake. The supposed last straw
was that he cheated with his freaky-deaky secretary, yet now he wants Darla back
"one more time." She vows it'll never happen again, and also vows to
explore her own wild side of life, believing if she'd just been a little more of
a vixen, he would've never strayed. But being that it's a small world, she finds
one particular encounter to be too close for comfort.
BPM: What situation or revelation prompted you to write your book, SIXTY-NINE?
My characters were created after watching an episode of The Oprah Show on the
topic of sexual repression. She talked about how some women have never had an
orgasm, and that some do not know how to enjoy sex, while others know how and
are willing, yet the old programmed messages of guilt speak louder than their
desire to enjoy themselves freely. I see this as a problem in our society for
women. We women need to be educated and seek help if necessary. The word sex is
still so negative to so many. Healthy sex between consenting adults, or alone,
is a woman's right as well as a man's.
BPM: Who do you want to reach with your book and the message within?
I would like women who might feel some sort of sexual repression to relax and
embrace their sexuality. Mind you, I'm not saying be promiscuous and partake in
risky behavior. Whether you have a lover or not, learn as much as you can about
your own body and how it works, what it looks like, focus on your likes and
dislikes, express yourself and ask for what pleases you. Be more creative. Try
something new that you're comfortable with. If you have repressive aspects that
have caused problems, seek help from a counselor and/or gynecologist. Enjoy
yourself and be happy. That is key.
Even women who don't have repressive issues might recognize a
friend in this story, and men could learn a lot about the women in their lives
by reading SIXTY-NINE. It could help men to become more patient and
understanding. It's all about sexual awakenings, in the book, in one's mind, and
in the bed.
BPM: What are some of the specific issues or problems addressed in this book?
In SIXTY-NINE, I address the inability to achieve orgasm, a woman's first
experience on an adult website, abusive parents, conservative upbringings,
economic pressures, betrayal, threesomes, mother-daughter-issues, mid-life
stripping, love-addiction, second chances, and more.
BPM: Share with us a quote from one of the most powerful chapters.
I suppose that would be the opening line of the book: She really did love her
best friends, but less than twenty years ago she slept with her best friend's
man and got pregnant.
BPM: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I want women to learn to be Sex-see, as I call it, seeing themselves as sexy,
feeling sexy and looking sexy for themselves. I have a "Pynk Dares You To
Be Sexy" chapter in SIXTY-NINE that lists 26 ideas or homework assignments
on how you can be sexier. Try a few alone or with a partner whom you trust. You
just might find new meaning in the term Sixty-Nine. Flip your sex life to a
brighter side.
BPM: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
I'm happy to say that I was an honoree at the SistahFriend Book Club's
African-American Literary Festival, where myself and other authors were awarded
the 2010 Pink Diamond Award. Also, EROTIC CITY was nominated in the best fiction
category for an African-American Literary Award. SIXTY-NINE hits the shelves on
March 25, 2011, and I'm wrapping up my 2012 title called POLITICS ESCORTS
BLACKMAIL, about the call-girls and politicians in New York City. It's Madam
Money Watts' fictional memoir.
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
Francis Ray lives in Texas. She has over 43 books in print. Her awards include EMMA, Romantic Times Career Achievement, Golden Pen, WRITTEN 2010 Book of the Year, and Borders 2008 bestselling multicultural book.
She has four books scheduled for 2011:
BREAK EVERY RULE 03/29, TWICE THE TEMPTATION 06/21, UNDENIABLE 06/21 and TROUBLE DON'T LAST ALWAYS 11/01.
Please visit her web site at www.francisray.com
and let her know what you think of her new widget, and Twice The Temptation contest.
BPM: Introduce us to your book and the main characters. What genre is the book? On Kindle or Nook?
My latest book is BREAK EVERY RULE, book #2 in the Falcon series. Break Every
Rule is a romance and can be found on both the Kindle and Nook. In Break Every
Rule, Dominique Falcon is a gorgeous model, a wealthy socialite-and a total fool when it comes to love. After falling for a charmer who was after her money, she's decided to set some ground rules for romance, starting with: Don't be richer than your man
…
He might be rough around the edges, but Trent is a hardworking man who built his successful trucking firm from humble beginnings. Dominique can't ignore the sparks between them-but dating a man so soon after his fiancée betrayed him would be breaking another basic rule: Don't trust a man on the rebound. Even so, things are heating up fast and-even though she might get burned-Dominique is ready to risk it all. In the game of love, rules are made to be broken.
BPM: What insight does the book give readers on relationships or one defined topic? Has your view changed since completing your book?
BREAK EVERY RULE gives the readers insights on not judging the faults of others on everyone. Dominique, the heroine, had to learn the difficult lesson of trusting a man again. It was a slow process, but Trent, the hero, was patient.
BPM: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people or experiences?
The characters are not real people, but I did do a great deal of research on the two main characters occupations of photography and running a trucking company.
BPM: What compelled or inspired you to write this book? Why now?
In the prologue of HEART OF THE FALCON, Dominique appeared at her brother Daniel's wedding with a helicopter ready to whisk him away from what Dominique thought would be a disaster. She quickly learned that Daniel's bride Madelyn loved her brother as much as she loved him. I ached for Dominique to be so young and cynical, and decided that she'd know a love just as deep and strong.
Intimate Conversation with Doug Magee
Doug Magee is a writer, photographer and filmmaker living in New York’s East Harlem. He is the author of
Slow Coming Dark: Interviews on Death Row, What Murder Leaves Behind: The Victim’s
Family, and three books for children. His produced screenplays include HBO’s
Somebody Has To Shoot The Picture and Showtime’s Beyond The Call.
Never Wave Goodbye is his first novel.
BPM: What makes you powerful as a person and a writer?
I wouldn’t call myself powerful in the traditional definition of the word. I don’t control armies or organizations. But I do have a power of sorts when someone opens my book and starts reading. Then I am a guide, a magician, a story teller and whoever is reading is, hopefully, under my spell. For me the best way to put people under that spell is to make the stories I’m telling both unusual and believable. I want to take people out of their normal setting, bring them inside engaging characters, but I don’t want things to be so far out or implausible that the reader can’t connect. It’s a tricky proposition, this balance of the fascinating and the real. But I believe achieving that gives me the power to hold the reader to the final page.
BPM: How much of what you write reflects on your outlook on life?
Everything I write reflects my outlook on life, if not directly, certainly indirectly.
Stokely Carmichael once said, “Your politics are determined by what you see out your front window.” In other words, where you place yourself can make a lot of difference in who you are. Similarly, who you are can’t help but determine what and how you write. If you’re doing something other than writing from your deepest self you’re not really writing, you’re imitating or just typing.
Intimate
Conversation with Carla S. Pennington
Author
Carla S. Pennington was born and raised in Prichard, Alabama where she
continues to reside with her family. In 1995, she graduated from Mattie T.
Blount High School, an all black school. She became a teen mother in 1992
and was advised that she couldn’t return to school for an entire semester
after giving birth. This devastated Carla, but she refused to be held back. Her
dedication and hard work paid off. She ranked number five in her graduating
class and received an advanced diploma with honors.
In 1996, Carla was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Over the years, the
disease has halted her, but she refuses to let it stop her. She is currently
working on a number of other projects that she plans to have published in the
near future.
In 2002, she received her Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in
journalism from Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama. After graduation, Carla
decided not to pursue her career in journalism. Her heart and mind were
elsewhere. She wanted to write fiction novels and short stories, something that
she had been doing since she was a young girl.
In 2005, Carla published her first novel, Fling and from there several short
stories which appeared in anthologies across the country. Finally, she landed a
book deal with Life Changing Books which released the wildly anticipated novel,
the Available Wife in January 2011. Readers can reach Carla S. Pennington on FaceBook and Twitter as:
carlapennington. Email address: carlapennington@hotmail.com
Intimate
Conversation with Margo Candela
Margo
Candela was born and raised in Northeast Los Angeles. She moved to San
Francisco to attend college and ended up staying for a decade before moving back
home in 2005. Her first three novels, More Than This (Touchstone, Aug. 2008),
Life Over Easy (Kensington, Oct. 2007) and Underneath It All (Kensington, Jan.
2007) are set in San Francisco. More Than This was a Target stores Breakout Book and an American Association of
Publishers national book club selection at Borders Books with Las Comadres. Her
next novel, Goodbye To All That, will be published in 2010 by Touchstone and is
her first novel set in her native Los Angeles.
BPM: Introduce us to your book, Good-bye To All That, and the main
characters.
Good-bye To All That is my fourth novel and the first set in my native Los
Angeles. When I was trying to convince my editor (and myself) that I’d finally
nailed down what I was going to write about, I told her Good-bye To All That
would be like “Working Girl meets Mad Men with a little bit of Entourage
thrown in.” My main character is 25-year-old Raquel Azorian. She’s floated
from job to job after college and lands a temp assignment that lead to full-time
job working in the marketing for a powerful media company. Once there she
realizes it’s where she wants to be and works very hard to prove her worth to
her boss and mentor. She has her work life tightly controlled, but her high
maintenance family stresses her out.
Raquel is the youngest character I’ve written yet and I had to tap into my own
anxieties and concerns from when I was in my 20s and trying to figure out what
to do with my life and where to fit my family into the new life I was trying to
make for myself. All of my novels deal with family, identity and what it means
to be independent. That Good-bye To All That is set in Hollywood added a level
of fun and glamour, but it’s still a book that explores very relatable issues
and concerns.
Intimate
Conversation with Connie May Fowler
New
York Times bestselling writer Connie May Fowler is an essayist,
screenwriter, and novelist. She is the author of five novels, most recently The
Problem with Murmur Lee, and a memoir, When Katie Wakes. In 1996, she published
Before Women Had Wings, which became a paperback bestseller and was made into a
successful Oprah Winfrey Presents movie. She founded the Connie May Fowler Women
With Wings Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to aiding women and
children in need. Connie lives in Florida.
BPM: What specific situation or revelation prompted you to write your new
book, How Clarissa Burden Learned to Fly?
I was reading up on pre-Civil war Florida history and discovered that when
Florida was a Spanish territory, women could be property owners and slavery was
outlawed. But Spain and the United States signed an agreement that would change
all of that. The Florida Purchase Treaty of 1819 guaranteed that the United
States would lay claim to Florida in 1821. With a stroke of a pen and strike of
a clock, suddenly all women and blacks would have their rights stripped away.
That haunted me and I walked around with that kernel in my head for a few years
before I sat down to write the novel, which takes place in 2006 but is populated
with ghosts.
Intimate Conversation with Elder Brenda Bradley
With over 20 years of experience, Elder Brenda Bradley's approach to relationship counseling is grounded by the Word. Quickly establishing herself in the industry through her wit and down to earth teaching style, Pastor, Teacher, Playwright and Mentor, Elder Bradley makes the subject matter so simple “a baby could understand it!”
Her message is simple: You don’t have to invest your heart in something that will never give back what you put in!
BPM: What compelled you to write The Boaz Factor.
I was fascinated with the current state of relationships, the obvious change in how relationships progress, and what we as women have chosen to put up with in order to keep a person (a man) in our lives. This Christian Devotional takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, opening their eyes to the truths in their relationships.
Intimate
Conversation with Laurence “Lonz” Cook
Laurence, a Marine Corps veteran, educator, and technology professional has
written professionally for years. He’s a graduate of the Marine Corps Command
and Staff College and holds a Masters of Science Degree. His creativity helped
fellow service members passionately communicate with their loved ones during
deployments. Along his career, friends and relatives pushed him to write
creatively; there came his novel debut "Good Guys Finish Last."
BPM: What makes you powerful as a person, parent and a writer?
As a writer, the ability to influence and develop through multiple messages
makes one extremely powerful. Especially when provoking thought certain social
behavior through readers, it’s amazingly powerful. When readers finish the
novel, they tend to contemplate their behavior on social events. In A Choice to
Yield, either they admit to a mis-belief or stereo type, based on someone’s
look, ethnicity, or gender, or assess members of their social circle.
Parenting is challenging within itself. You never knew you could love so greatly
until you embrace the little person and realize he/she is of you and your
responsibility. Power then becomes relevant to how we envision our children for
the future and focus on outcome of the child. We do what’s necessary to teach,
nurture, and lead so children are capable of enduring life’s challenges. In my
case, they lead me to power as realization took hold on their dependency for
leadership and guidance. Yet, the greatest power given is their pure love and
trust. There lies what makes me a powerful parent, giving love, guidance, and
nurturing to their success. (And closing the door so they don’t return...the
real parental power.)
A powerful person is challenging in defining, and yet quite simple. Power for me
comes in continued social contributions, equally sharing in reflecting a
positive image, and uplifting through spiritual means. Not only is there
influence in my acts, but there is sincerity in association with others. My
interactions with many allows an immediate impact, either they view me as
someone to communicate with, or someone to emulate. The power for me lies in the
ability to communicate, and communicate sensibly to those with a thirst for
motivation. Especially when influencing behavior change through an emotional
impact. Usually in my conversation there is a parable, a message, something to
spark positive thought, and therefore hopefully ignite a following act. The
result is often someone traveling a new direction. Especially in social change.
Sober, Responsible Men and Fathers Please Apply
by David Miller
Historically,
the role of Black men and fathers has been minimized by mainstream media and
marginalized by society. Media assaults on the images of Black fathers have been
well documented over the last 25 years. While several television examples of
responsible manhood and Black fatherhood can be cited, including Sanford and
Son, Good Times, The Jeffersons, The Cosby Show, Roc, The Bernie Mac Show and
Everybody Loves Chris, the vast majority of images depicting Black fathers are
devoid of any social or political responsibility as well as allegiance to our
families.
Television shows like The Game, produced by actor Kelsey Grammer who starred in
Frasier, continue a long legacy of portraying Black men as irresponsible and
incapable of maintaining healthy relationships. The fallacy of shows like The
Game is they fail to provide balanced perspectives of Black family life and
culture. While The Game is merely entertainment to most, it continues to
perpetuate destructive images about Black life and culture. Several parallels
can be made to Zip Coon, a caricature that emanated from the Antebellum South.
Zip Coon, an exaggerated figure, was created to depict Black men as lazy, easily
frightened, chronically idle, inarticulate and unable to reason or comprehend.
The Game, which was thankfully canned by the CW Network, was subsequently picked
up by BET as a result of millions of fans displaying outrage over its
cancellation. Sadly, The Game debuted on Jan. 11, 2011, with more than seven
million viewers glued to the tube. It saddens me that so many people –
undoubtedly most of them African-American – got so outraged over the
cancellation of a stereotypical television show when, by contrast, I bet if you
go to any PTA meeting at virtually any school in this country you’d be hard
pressed to find many African-American parents in attendance.
(Click "Read More" for the entire important message to our male
leaders.)
Pursuing Your Dream
Finding Your Passion
by Trice Hickman
I'm blessed. Really and truly blessed! After many years of searching, I've finally found my passion, which is writing! And it's funny because books have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.
I can recall childhood memories of being excited when my parents took my brother, sister, and me to the Half-Price Bookstore in my small hometown. That was a real treat for me, better than a toy or even candy!
Books were treasured gems and I loved them. My thirst for the written word grew as I matured.
But for years and years, when I’d try to write I'd come down with the dreaded “writer's block.”
It was terrible, and I couldn't move beyond a few pages. I began a frustrating cycle...I'd try to write, nothing would happen, so I'd pick up a book and start reading.
After several months would pass I'd try to write again, but the writer's block would return, so I'd pick up another book and continue my reading. That process went on for years. Then, one day it all changed. I’d been laid off from my job and was feeling low. As I started my search for new employment, I decided that I needed to look for something that would give me real enjoyment. My mind instantly took me to my love of books and my desire to one day write a novel. With a new found sense of purpose and direction, I sat down in front of my computer and started writing. I wrote all day and all night. By the next morning I'd written 30 pages, and the first chapter of my first novel, Unexpected Interruptions, was born.
The next step—I had to figure out how to get my book published. I began submitting my manuscript to literary agents and publishers, but they all turned me down. ALL of them! Still, I was determined to make my dream come true. I did my research (which was painstaking, but necessary), formed my own publishing company, Platinum Books, and published Unexpected Interruptions, myself. The book went on to garner praise from literary reviewers and readers across the country, win several literary awards, and make several bestsellers lists.
I self-published two additional novels, Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies, and Playing the Hand You’re Dealt, which were both received with equal praise in the literary marketplace. After achieving these milestones, a major publisher offered me a book contract and the rest is history. I’m currently working on my next book and I’m enjoying every minute of it! Oh, and did I mention that upon its re-release, Unexpected Interruptions, the same book that everyone initially rejected, received a starred review from Publisher’s Weekly!
When I think back over all those years of wondering when or if I'd ever find my passion, I have to smile because what I’ve come to realize is that my passion was right in front of me…I just couldn't see it. I had allowed fear to intercept my passion. I’d always loved reading and writing, but because I had trouble completing more than a few pages, I became discouraged. But despite my frustration, I never gave up, and I always came back to books and my love for the written word. And when the time was right, I was able to realize my dream and find my passion.
If there is something that you keep coming back to, even in the face of frustration and seeming failure, take a closer look. It just might be your passion...looking for you, waiting for you to claim it!
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. Visit her website for more details on her books and upcoming tour schedule at:
www.tricehickman.com
5 Most Common Black-Leather-Shoe
Mistakes Women Make
By Marian L. Thomas
Ladies! There are a few simple things you can avoid that will save you from repeat
B.L.S.D, (Black-Leather-Shoes Doom) that we all experience from time to time. However, please remember that even after reading this, it might not prevent you from running into, marrying or dating a B.L.S.D - type of man overnight, but I hope that the information below will help you to see, acknowledge and accept the warning signs before it's too late. Shall we begin?
Mistake #1— Checking out his appearance and getting lost in his black leather shoes! Solution: If his shoes are shinning more than what he says to you or does for you, run!
Mistake #2— Forgetting to check his background before thinking about your future together. Solution: Do your homework. Find out about the past drama before you become the present drama.
Mistake #3— Check the Compliments! Solution: Ask yourself: Does it sound sincere? You want to be sure he is being sincere with his compliments and not just telling you something that 50 other women have heard.
Mistake #4— Not having a 'line' in mind! Solution: Know and have standards but make sure that you are up to par with them yourself.
Mistake #5— Not Repeating this to yourself: "I am worth it"! Solution: He smiled to capture your interest, brought your flowers and called you every night, now make sure that he keeps doing it.
That's it ladies, the 5 most common Black-Leather-Shoe Mistakes, we as women can make at some point in our lives.
About the
Author
Marian L. Thomas, reared in Chicago but lives with her biggest-supporter—her husband and their spoiled but playful dog, Winston in Atlanta, Georgia. Her debut title, Color Me Jazzmyne, went on to become an Amazon Best-Seller and was ranked as one of the " Top 100 Books" -1st Qtr 2010 by the Sankofa Literary Society Review.
Marian welcomes the release of her second book, My Father's Colors-The Drama-Filled Journey of Naya Monà Continues on March 1, 2011 to online retailers, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, Kindle and Nook. Be sure to get your copy today! It is sure to be another Best-Seller for the author as it takes you on the journey of four individuals that lead to one destination filled with betrayal, lies and shocking secrets.
Ready to Purchase Your Copy of My Father's Colors-The Drama-Filled Journey of Naya Monà Continues?
Click
Here. Visit the author's website: http://www.marianlthomas.com
Prescription
for Healthy Relationships by Talayah G. Stovall
Human beings
have an inherent need to develop meaningful relationships. We all want to
share our goals, ideas, joys, sorrows, desires, affection and experiences with
someone else. However, we all fall short at times in handling the mechanics of
them. There are times when we need to “doctor” up or even perform
“surgery” on some of our relationships.
Do you experience any of the following symptoms in any of your relationships?
• Frequent arguments
• Low energy conversations
• Apathy regarding the relationship
• Lack of interaction/no desire for proximity
• Continuously looking for “something better”
We go to the doctor for regular checkups, but how often do we check the
health of our relationships? Just like your physical health, positive
relationships whether they are romantic, social or professional–require
maintenance. Good relationships don’t just “happen.” Just as our physical
bodies get sick from time to time, most relationships go through periods of
“illness” as well. Fortunately, with proper treatment, these relationships
can “recover” and thrive.
Being constantly on guard for symptoms of illness within your relationships will
help keep them healthy and prosperous. People who have healthy relationships are
happier and less stressed.
If you answered “yes” to any of the above symptoms, you might be in an
unhealthy relationship. If so, click "Read More" below for
some possible “remedies.”
Have You Ever
Been Played or Betrayed?
by VegasClarke
Most folk have
felt that deep, wounding feeling of betrayal at one point in their lives. It’s
the kind of hurt that keeps you up at night, the kind that makes fury rise up in
your stomach, and the kind that makes every word escape from your mouth in the
nastiest tone possible. Generally, you ask yourself, “Why? I can’t believe
they would do that to me…not him…not her…we were so close.
Oddly, every betrayal begins with trust; sometimes a lover, sometimes a family
member, but most times a friend. Someone once said, “A true friend is the most
precious of all possessions and the one we suffer from the most when things turn
sour.”
But why do we set ourselves up with false hope? Aren’t friends people too? And
aren’t people human? Certainly the answer is yes. People are human and they do
make mistakes…but as friends we often call it betrayal. But is it? One of the
formal definitions of betrayal reads; to lead astray or to deceive. You decide.
After surveying many people the line has been drawn in the sand, and you must
take a stand. Can you make a mistake or turn on a friend and be forgiven? Should
you be given a second chance? One story was told about a woman who desperately
loved her friend of fifteen years, but gave into depression mixed with a bit of
lust.
Crystal,
a thirty year old woman was diagnosed with cancer and given six months to live.
Her best friend Keisha poured her heart out to her friend after hearing the
news. She dove right in to assist the family with day-to- day activities such
as, cooking, cleaning, and taking the kids to after school practices. One thing
led to another and Keisha began servicing Crystal’s man. Both Crystal and the
husband knew it was wrong but claimed they were comforting one another and
helping their souls with the pain of knowing Crystal would be leaving them both
with empty hearts soon. (Click "Read More" for the
rest of this sad story.)
Men Are
Abused Too
by Carla S. Pennington, author of The Available Wife
When people discuss domestic abuse, they automatically
think and assume that a woman is being physically abused by a man. This is not
always the case. Domestic abuse has different forms: physical, emotional,
mental and sexual. In relationships and marriages, not only are women abused
but men are as well. Although it is a current problem, it is a hidden crime.
There are many reasons why domestic abuse against men is unrecognized. It
is hard to get reliable estimates. Not enough is being done to encourage men
to report abuse. The idea of men being abused is unthinkable and
astonishing to most people that men do not attempt to report it. Men feel that
no one will believe them and some of them even feel ashamed because of the
notion that they will be seen as weak or unmanly. Men often escape a bad home
life that they are afraid of by spending extra time at work, staying in
“their” space (garage, den) at home, or even sleeping in the car or at a
friend’s place.
Women abuse for many of the same reasons as men do -alcohol and/or drug abuse,
psychological disorders and unrealistic expectations and assumptions. Abusive
women make unfair demands on their partners and attribute most of their
depression and frustrations on them. They blame their partner rather than
admit their own insecurities, emotional problems, childhood traumas and/or
current substance abuse. They want their partner to make them feel whole
rather than take responsibility for their own lives.
Men stay in abusive relationships for the same reasons abused women do:
protecting their children, assuming blame (guilt prone) and dependency (or
fear of independence). If more men would report domestic abuse then more can
be done to help them. Abused men should be given the same treatment and
resources as abused women. Currently there are a few shelters, programs or
advocacy groups for abused men. Most abused men have to rely on private
counseling services or just deal with the abuse.
Community
Discussion:
What are your thoughts on the subject of domestic abuse toward men?
Have you experienced abuse in a relationship? What advice would you give
someone who is going through a break up? Email your comments or questions to:
edc_dg@yahoo.com.
Subject line: Men Deserve More Protection from Abuse.
Meet Author Carla S. Pennington
Carla S. Pennington was born and raised in Prichard, Alabama where she
continues to reside with her family. In 2005, Carla published her first novel,
Fling and from there several short stories which appeared in anthologies
across the country. Finally, she landed a book deal with Life Changing Books
which released the wildly anticipated novel, the Available Wife in January
2011. Readers can reach Carla S. Pennington on FaceBook and Twitter as:
carlapennington. Email address: carlapennington@hotmail.com
TOP 25 BLACK PEARLS BOOK CLUBS
Bookclubs are Important to Us!
Independent book clubs of all sorts have recently gained attention across the country. We now have a network of social clubs, youth groups, savings clubs and non-profits as members of The Sankofa Literary Society! Reading is a passion to be proud of and we have a wonderful selections of groups to prove it!
We are here to give these groups the recognition they deserve! These clubs have varied goals, but are definitely creating a impact in the publishing industry. Please join me in welcoming the readers, bookclubs and social networks that create bestsellers.
For the last
couple of months, perhaps years —you have stared at a monitor, pecked away at
a keyboard and searched the depths of your imagination for something real, fresh
and captivating that will show the world who you are from a written page.
Finally, you have put your last period at the end of a sentence and sat back
with a smile of disbelief. Did you just finish writing your first book?
Will it be a bestseller? Yes, and Maybe.
Okay, why did I say maybe? When you decided to begin your journey to
authorship, you also decided to publish yourself. To put 'you' out there
to all who have never heard of 'you' before.
It's a scary thought, but such a reality that stares you in the face and asks
"are you ready?" A valid question.
So just how do you go about getting not just your book published but you for that matter? Before I answer that, remember this fact: that one can have an amazing book, an amazing cover, and the best story out there, but if you fail to publish yourself who will know it?
So when
should you begin the process of 'publishing you'? It is highly recommended
that you begin this process before your book hits the online venues and brick
and mortars. Actually, studies have shown that you should begin to market
yourself at least three months prior. How?
The Beauty of Small Publishers by Susan Mary Malone
Should you go with a small press or a big publishing house?
A deceiving question, on the outside. Writers have dreams of
being published by Random House, or Simon & Schuster, or any of the big conglomerates in NY, under whose
umbrella myriad imprints abound. But going with a smaller house has many perks,
and can often--even for seasoned authors--be a better way to go.
Yes, the prestige comes with the big boys. We all know that. A galley review
coming from any of the five major publishers does get noticed more quickly,
whether from Publishers Weekly or the local paper and every review outlet in
between. And usually (although even this has changed drastically in recent
years), you're also looking at more advance money. But after that, unless your
last name is King or Clancy or Rice or any of the list of bestselling authors,
the benefits pretty much fizzle from there.
With the death of the mid-list author came the reality that everyone else is
pretty much left to promote his book himself. Advertising dollars go to that
list of well knowns. So either way you're left to do the promotion.
That small publishers have much fewer promotional dollars is a fact. But,
they're quite willing to help you to promote your book, and guide you through
the process. Sometimes you'll work with a good book editor, sometimes not, but
often at a big house your manuscript has to be camera-ready before submission as
well. The main thing is, rather than a minnow being bashed around publishing's
treacherous seas within a big house, you'll be a fish on equal footing at
smaller presses. And the small press is much more vested in seeing your book
become a success--its success depends upon it, rather than a couple of
huge-selling authors who are keeping the entire boat afloat.
How
To Turn Up The Heat
Without Being Too Hot To Handle
by Ci Ci Foster
There is a fine line between erotica and pornography. As an author you bear the daunting task of determining your novels level of heat. This choice should not be taken lightly as it has the ability to appeal to a mass audience or completely turn them off.
I remember one of my first interviews for my sexually charged novel, Sunny Rain. The reporter asked in a condescending tone; what’s the difference between your work and pornography? The question took me by surprise. As naive as it sounds, it never occurred to me that someone would compare my work to pornography. I politely told the woman erotic fiction is a story with explicitly written sex scenes. Unlike porno, it does not aim to sexually arouse, but it has the potential to do so. She replied, “If you say so”. Lesson learned; you can’t please everyone. Erotica is so subjective. One girl’s sweet is another girl’s sizzle.
There are 3 main levels of heat typically used by authors, readers, and review sites: steamy, sizzling, and scorching. It is important to know what the readers in each category expect, to deliver the goods, and keep them cumming back for more…Excuse me, that’s coming back for more.
A steamy novel is filled with love scenes that require the reader to use their imagination. If it were a movie, it would have a PG 13 rating. Typically the characters sexcapades don’t deviate too much outside of the norm. Flowery language and clinical terms are often used to describe “the act”.
More sensual than sexual, these books have a more artistic flare than sizzling or scorching tales.
A novel with a sizzling heat level is similar to that of a rated R movie. These stories contain a mixture of graphic, clinical language, and sexual slang. These books may play on kinky subjects, but they don’t tackle the subject with hard-core detail.
In a scorching novel anything goes. These kinky tales take sex to the limit. It contains anything from multiple partners to BDSM. The language is extremely graphic and in full detail leaving nothing to the imagination.
Turn up the heat on your novel by pushing your characters to their sexual limits. Is there such a thing as going too far?
5 Easy Steps to Sell Up to 100 Copies of Your Book!
Marian L. Thomas
Talk with most
authors and they all have one thing in common—to sell their books. For some
authors, writing their book was the easy part, putting down their pen and
picking up their marketing hat—is not as easier.
Hopefully, following these 5 easy steps will help get the marketing juices flowing and your books out the
door!
Step #1- Get a website created with your own custom domain name. It
has been common in the industry to see author domain names that are geared
toward the title of their first book, however, it might be more effectively in
the long run to get a domain name that features your first and last author
name. For example: http://www.marianlthomas.com.
Why is this important? Readers need somewhere to go to read more about you, your book
(s) and to see purchasing options. It also helps to establish creditability as a
serious author.
Include on your website the following:
-Home Page: a photo of yourself is often displayed on the home page.
-Biography: Keep it simple but give it some substance.
-Book Page: Book Synopsis, Purchase Links for the Book, Reviews, and
links to videos.
-Media: To set up this page, make sure you set-up a press room at http://www.prlog.org.
Once your press room has been
created, ensure that any press releases that are written about your book, book events or other news that is media worthy is linked to your press room. You can then add a link to your press room under your Media tab. Be sure to include any links to articles that you have written or radio shows on this page.
-Contact:
Use this page for comments, a way for readers to reach you or as a guest book.
-Calendar: Must have! Google Calendar is great, free and can be embedded on your website.
Step #2 - Plan a major book signing/launch event around a theme.
Everyone loves to go to a themed party, so have one. Invite everyone you know and ask them to invite 5 to 10 people that they know.
If you get 50 to 100 people to attend, that's 50 to 100 books sold! Make sure to include the cost of your book in the ticket price if possible and feed your guest!
Live entertainment is always good to have. Look for someone local. Local author, local entertainer. Win-Win.
This is YOUR Year: Straight From
Your Gay Best Friend
No more games, drama, or stress. Life is too damn short.
It’s 2011 and you’ve determined that this is your year. No more games,
drama, or stress. Life is too damn short. And, you’re definitely not going to
put up with men who are not bringing anything to the table. No ma’am. It’s
all about you, and darling, Terrance Dean is here to tell you, yes, DIVA, it is
all about you.
In today’s society every woman needs a gay best friend—someone who gives it
to her straight about life, clothes, sex, and relationships. From the inner city
to suburbia, a gay best friend has become the new must-have for women.
Terrance Dean can be your new gay best friend. In his new book, Straight From Your Gay Best Friend – The Straight Up Truth About Relationships, Work, and Having A Fabulous Life
(Agate Bolden - $15; October 2010), Dean gives women terrific insights and
advice on some of life’s most challenging issues—family, friends, career,
love, sex, and intimate relationships. Dean offers direct and to-the-point
perspectives, mixed with a little sass, wit, humor, forwardness, and
spirituality, as only a gay man can do.
Dean also dedicates a chapter to the most controversial topic in the black
community—down-low gay men. He writes, “I am often asked by women, ‘How
can I tell if my man is on the down low?’ Or, ‘What are some signs I
need to look out for so I do not end up in a relationship with a down-low man?’
This chapter will help women identify if the man they are in a relationship with
or considering dating may be on the down low.”
This book will help women discover the power they need for a life of
abundant success, prosperity, and happiness with loving relationships.
It dispenses practical
advice and tips on creating healthy relationships with themselves and any man
they desire. And it’s all done from a place of love.
Is the gay best friend here to stay or is it a passing societal whim?
The gay best friend is here to stay. We’ve always been around. It’s just
that now we are getting more recognition and visibility thanks in part to
television programs, movies, and the internet. People will be amazed at the
number of women who rely on their gay best friends for advice about everything,
from relationships and fashion to dealing with their family members.
What does the gay best friend have to offer a woman that her girlfriends don’t?
First and foremost, we are men. We know men. We know how we act, and what we
will do in various situations. We’re the best ally for a woman who needs
advice on her relationships and love life. Trust me, we are not going to steer
women wrong.
We can also be that go-to person for a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and
the straight truth about everything. We’re not in competition with our good
girlfriends, nor do we have an ulterior motive. We are not trying to sleep with
our girlfriends, and we certainly won’t borrow your best fashions and not
return them.
What do you hope your readers will walk away with from this book?
I hope readers will walk away with a sense of empowerment and inspiration. Women
are naturally powerful, fabulous, and intelligent. In my book, I only reinforce
what they already know, and remind them of who they are. Sometimes we forget who
we are and what we are here to do, especially when it comes to dealing with
other people. My book is intended to provide women with some assistance on their
journeys, remind them of their inheritance of what is good and true. I also want
every woman to know that no matter what, no one can take away your true divine
place in this world. You have a purpose, and your whole life and whatever you
desire all depend on you recognizing your purpose.
In your opinion, what are the biggest mistakes women make when entering a relationship?
One of the biggest is giving their power over to men, in the process forgetting
who they are and allowing their emotions to take them over. Men think with their
brains. Women think with their hearts. Also, women have forgotten how to date.
We live in a day and age where people are too eager to hook up instead of taking
the time to get to know one another. Another mistake is that women forget that
men like to pursue; they like to hunt. A woman has to make the man pursue her
and not give in so easily to her (or his) desires. Women have to own their power
and virtues.
Another mistake is the failure to listen. Women must listen to men and observe
their behavior. Pay attention to what he is saying and doing. If he is not
living up to your standards and he is not doing what he says he will, then that
woman must reevaluate that man and make him accountable, responsible, and
integral. Finally, women tend to date the potential in men. They see who he
will become, or what they want him to become, and they fall in love with that
man instead of the man they meet. When he doesn’t become who they want him to
be, women become disappointed, frustrated, and angry.
If you had to sum up in three or four sentences your career advice for women, what would you tell them?
Do what you love. Whatever you feel deepest in your heart, whatever brings you
the most joy, that is what you are supposed to be doing. Whatever you think
about before you go to bed, and think about first thing when you wake up, that
is what you should be doing. Your career should bring you joy, peace, and
happiness. Don’t do something just for money. If you love what you do, and it
provides fulfillment beyond anything you’ve ever experienced, the money will
come.
Your book talks about the down-low phenomenon—in your view, how prevalent is the issue of down-low gay men in the black community?
Well, the down-low phenomenon is not just prevalent in the black community, but
in all communities, including whites, Latinos, and Asians. Unfortunately, when
people hear the term down-low, they associate it with the black community. I
feel there should be more open discussions in all communities around sex and
sexuality. We’re so afraid to have those discussions, though, that it’s
crippling us—as a result, we have an alarming rate of HIV infection among
women. People are scared to talk about gay sex, bisexuality, and down-low. If
we talk about it then we have to admit it exists. As long as we avoid talking
about it, we are keeping it in the closet, and we are keeping ourselves in the
dark.
What is the most important ingredient to living a fabulous life?
Loving yourself. If you love who you are, then others will love you. If you don’t
appreciate you, then others will not. If you don’t show yourself respect,
then others will not. It’s all about love. And that means loving everything
about yourself from the bottom of your feet to the top of your head.
So, what are you waiting for? Order your copy of Dean’s new book and
start living your FAN-TAB-U-LOUS life today. The book is available in
bookstores everywhere. If you’re in a hurry, it only takes a second to order
on Amazon.com. And, you can order it
here.
Terrance Dean
is the author of Hiding In Hip Hop – On The Down Low in the Entertainment
Industry from Music to Hollywood (Simon & Schuster/Atria Books – June
2008); Reclaim Your Power! A 30-Day Guide to Hope, Healing, and Inspiration For
Men of Color (Villard/Random House – June 2002); Visible Lives – Three
Stories In Tribute To E. Lynn Harris
(Dafina – June 2010).
Conversations in the Dark: The Deep Secret
of Sexual Abuse in the Black Community by Skyy Banks
It’s nothing that we sit around the dinner table and talk about. It’s not a discussion
at family gatherings. In fact, sexual abuse, in its rawest form, has become taboo in the realms of the African American culture. Yet, it is rocking our community to the core of our very existence. This imbalance, hurls us into a pit of endless cycles- the cycles of broken marriages, unhealthy relationships, and isolation.
Guilt, shame and hopelessness are all emotions associated with the trauma of child sexual abuse. The act of abuse, whether covert or overt, scars the victim. Essentially, every facet of the victim’s life has been damaged; however the affects are sometimes not evident until years later.
Affecting millions of people every year, sexual violence is a serious issue. Available data underestimate the problem due in part to how it is defined and how the data is collected. More than 70% of sexual assault cases are not reported to police and many more are not disclosed at all.
Sexual abuse crosses all boundaries; it is no respecter of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Yet, studies show that abuse is more common among children in lower-income families. It appears that in these cases, abuse is more likely to be reported because this group tends to be in contact with public agencies more than others.
The childhood wounds of abuse often lead to lifelong mental and physical problems.
For example, many psychologists believe that the inability to form healthy adult relationships is a direct result of being abused/traumatized in a child’s formative years. Most of this trauma results from being hurt by other people, including family members. Black Americans report being more severely abused in terms of sex acts, as well as the amount of force used to commit such acts.
They also report being more often abused by uncles and stepfathers. As a result these victims have a difficult time developing trust. They often grow up expecting that others will violate them. On the other side, many women trust to easily, having a hard time judging who is safe. Remember, they too have been betrayed by their family members they loved. For all intents and purposes, this has given them a false security of just handing over trust instead of requiring it to be earned or deserved. Because they have not had the opportunity to develop trustworthy relationships, women don’t know how to recognize trustworthy individuals.
A woman’s sexuality can also be affected as a result of childhood sexual abuse. Sex is confused with love or getting care because the abuser gave her attention and affection through sexual contact. Such attention can open up a woman to unwanted or forced sex. Childhood sexual abuse can also frighten women and cause them to develop negative feelings about sex. When a woman becomes sexual as an adult, she often has flashbacks of abuse and will altogether avoid sex or intimacy to avoid the negative feelings and memories associated with the childhood trauma.
Studies have shown that childhood sexual abuse is typically an intergenerational
occurrence.
Mothers of abused children are significantly more likely to have been sexual abuse victims themselves. To tackle the crisis, we have to empower parents and children to understand the severity of its ramifications; the ramifications of not being able to thrive in healthy adult relationships both sexually and emotionally. The safety of our children begins with parents. Parents must teach children to have authority over their body and be aware of not necessarily people but particular circumstances. Let them know that they have the right to say “no” to whomever. If it does not feel right, sound right, or look right seek help. Self empowerment comes from self love and respect which leads to prevention.
About the Author Skyy Banks
Soul on Fire, Banks premier novel, is an exploration of the torment of abuse and the consequences of self-hatred and self-destructive behavior, and it sheds light on why so many women sabotage relationships and friendships that mean so much.
Before Soul on Fire, Banks shared her works with the world through free-lance writings. She is a native of Arkansas who now calls Atlanta, GA her home.
Banks enjoys reading, writing, and traveling. Banks uses her writing as a platform to encourage her readers to explore taboo subjects and engage in dialogue to find solutions. She is a self-motivated woman and knows the world is waiting for her greatness. She is quoted as saying, "The only limits are the ones I place upon myself; I don t have any."
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Seeking Book Reviewers EDC
Creations seeks to add avid readers to our community as book reviewers. We would
like readers to share their honest opinions about the books they read. You do
not have to be a professional writer, we want to feel your passion for reading.
Reviewers receive books from EDC Creations’ publishing partners monthly.
You can review our policy for book reviewers by
clicking here. Email Ella Curry for more details at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
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Seeking
Book Club Interviews Ella
Curry and EDC Creations celebrates the rise of book clubs in the publishing
industry. We host monthly tributes and parties for our featured book clubs. You
too can become a Black Pearls Bookclub Star! Request that your book club obtain
a interview and receive a gift bag of books!
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
details or to request the interview questions at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
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Skype
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Ella's Skype ID: [ edc1creations]
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Seeking
Blog Tour Hosts
and Radio Hosts Each
month EDC Creations hosts a online book tour for five 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
blog, we provide all the material for you. It's as simple as emailing us your
interest.
We
will hold live readings weekly and would like for readers to share the news on
Twitter, Facebook and Myspace. Gather five or more friends and meet us for an
online party! We promote great books via the phone, Skype and the web. Great
benefits available for tour hosts. Email Ella Curry for more details on joining
the tours at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
Please take a moment to view our previous tour
hosts here.
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Business
Interviews Requested Do
you have a great business that serves our community? Tell Black Pearls Magazine
about it! We are seeking community leader interviews. We showcase five 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 contests 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 D. Curry, editor-in-chief Black Pearls Magazine
President of
EDC Creations Media Group
EDC Creations website: www.edc-creations.com
In
my newest release, 
About
the Author
My
name is Roxanne and I work for a company that maintains a website on Nursing
schools called Nursingschools.net. We recently published an article called
"
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. 
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. 
Nikkea
Smithers is a dynamic award winning and Essence Magazine bestselling writer
and spoken word artist, originally from Connecticut , currently residing in
Richmond , VA. She has released several novels, poetry compilations and has
contributed to several anthologies. Her writing style is unique as she uses her
ability to play on words throughout each project. Her novels flair with the
explicit details of life told through her characters’ eyes. Visit the
author's website at: 
Joan
Early grew up in Woodville, Mississippi and began writing after a long
career in mortgage banking and mortgage law. Her first completed short story won
first place in Ebony Magazine’s literary contest. Joan’s family history and
travels help fill the pages of her four published paperbacks and a published
E-book. Joan continues writing in the tranquility of her home in the Houston
suburb of Kingwood, Texas.
PYNK
is the best-selling author of three erotica titles and winner of the 2008
YOUnity award for both the Fastest Rising Literary Star and Author of the Year.
Hachette Books released the first title, Erotic City, in November 2008.
Erotic City was a finalist for a 2009 African-American Literary Award in the
category of erotica and voted one of the Best Reads for 2008 by Black
Expressions. 
BPM:
Introduce us to your book, SIXTY-NINE and the characters. On Kindle or
Nook? 
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author
Francis Ray lives in Texas. She has over 43 books in print. Her awards include EMMA, Romantic Times Career Achievement, Golden Pen, WRITTEN 2010 Book of the Year, and Borders 2008 bestselling multicultural book.
Doug Magee is a writer, photographer and filmmaker living in New York’s East Harlem. He is the author of
Slow Coming Dark: Interviews on Death Row, What Murder Leaves Behind: The Victim’s
Family, and three books for children. His produced screenplays include HBO’s
Somebody Has To Shoot The Picture and Showtime’s Beyond The Call.
Never Wave Goodbye is his first novel. 
Author
Carla S. Pennington was born and raised in Prichard, Alabama where she
continues to reside with her family. In 1995, she graduated from Mattie T.
Blount High School, an all black school. She became a teen mother in 1992
and was advised that she couldn’t return to school for an entire semester
after giving birth. This devastated Carla, but she refused to be held back. Her
dedication and hard work paid off. She ranked number five in her graduating
class and received an advanced diploma with honors. 
With over 20 years of experience, Elder Brenda Bradley's approach to relationship counseling is grounded by the Word. Quickly establishing herself in the industry through her wit and down to earth teaching style, Pastor, Teacher, Playwright and Mentor, Elder Bradley makes the subject matter so simple “a baby could understand it!”
Her message is simple: You don’t have to invest your heart in something that will never give back what you put in!
Laurence, a Marine Corps veteran, educator, and technology professional has
written professionally for years. He’s a graduate of the Marine Corps Command
and Staff College and holds a Masters of Science Degree. His creativity helped
fellow service members passionately communicate with their loved ones during
deployments. Along his career, friends and relatives pushed him to write
creatively; there came his novel debut "Good Guys Finish Last."
Historically,
the role of Black men and fathers has been minimized by mainstream media and
marginalized by society. Media assaults on the images of Black fathers have been
well documented over the last 25 years. While several television examples of
responsible manhood and Black fatherhood can be cited, including Sanford and
Son, Good Times, The Jeffersons, The Cosby Show, Roc, The Bernie Mac Show and
Everybody Loves Chris, the vast majority of images depicting Black fathers are
devoid of any social or political responsibility as well as allegiance to our
families. 
I'm blessed. Really and truly blessed! After many years of searching, I've finally found my passion, which is writing! And it's funny because books have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.
About the
Author
Community
Discussion:
Terrance Dean can be your new gay best friend. In his new book, Straight From Your Gay Best Friend – The Straight Up Truth About Relationships, Work, and Having A Fabulous Life
(Agate Bolden - $15; October 2010), Dean gives women terrific insights and
advice on some of life’s most challenging issues—family, friends, career,
love, sex, and intimate relationships. Dean offers direct and to-the-point
perspectives, mixed with a little sass, wit, humor, forwardness, and
spirituality, as only a gay man can do. 
Terrance Dean
is the author of Hiding In Hip Hop – On The Down Low in the Entertainment
Industry from Music to Hollywood (Simon & Schuster/Atria Books – June
2008); Reclaim Your Power! A 30-Day Guide to Hope, Healing, and Inspiration For
Men of Color (Villard/Random House – June 2002); Visible Lives – Three
Stories In Tribute To E. Lynn Harris 
About the Author Skyy Banks
The
Black Pearls Magazine 