Authors On The Rise

AOTR Interviews Tamika Newhouse

2011-03-11T07:10:00.000-08:00

AOTR is happy to bring you an interview with Tamika Newhouse. Tamika is doing so many wonderful things in the literary community. Please show your support by visiting her website and purchasing her book! Also listen to her takshow and follow her on twitter.

AOTR: Tell us about you and your book.

Tamika: Cookie A Fort Worth Story synopsis: Born Latoya James, when starting high school, Cookie believes this is her time to stand out from underneath her sister's shadow. Always declared the odd one, she makes it her mission to be noticed by anyone who will pay attention. Reality starts to settle in when she realizes life isn't always peaches and cream. After witnessing the rape of her best friend, and then the death of one of her classmates, she starts to believe life isn't what she thought it would be. Sex, drugs, catering to her new demons, and hanging out with the older crowd become her escape, and not even her high school sweetheart can steer her straight. It isn't until she realizes everyone around her is not who they seem to be when she decides to change her life. But when she experiences an unwanted pregnancy and the death of her mother, Cookie is left to wonder if this is the way her life will always be. Based on a true story, Cookie is a gripping tale of a teen girl who had to grow up sooner than later. Taking place in one of the fastest-growing suburbs of Fort Worth, witness the life of Cookie and her quest to be loved, appreciated, and wanted. You will soon discover life is never what it seems.

AOTR: When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

Tamika: I knew I loved to write in the third grade when I was assigned by my English teacher to write a short story. I knew then that I wanted to write.

AOTR: What inspired you to write your first book?

Tamika: I had been in the lowest points in my life and everything was going wrong. To escape the problems of my life I started to write. It was my way of healing.

AOTR: Was it difficult to write or easy?

AOTR: It was very easy to write; it’s like entertainment for me. I am reading the book as I write so I want to know what’s going to happen next so I have to keep writing; it’s a drug when I’m writing my books.

AOTR: How did you go about creating your characters?

Tamika: I knew I wanted realistic women who had their options of playing the field. I got tired of reading about women being cheated on and becoming depressed. We all aren’t like that some can move just as quickly as a man can.

AOTR: Did you struggle with any of your characters, or did they just speak to you?

Tamika: Not at all, it was very easy. They become my friends and I become engrossed in their life.

AOTR: What was your writing process like? Did you outline or just write naturally?

Tamika: I do some note taking but I rarely do a precise time line. There are things I want to make note of to remember to place in the book. Now if and when I place it in the book is always unknown.

AOTR: In a few words tell an interested reader why they should read your book next.

Tamika: If you want a realistic book with realistic people, I am the author for you. You get lost in my books because you know someone in my stories.

AOTR: What are you working on now?

Tamika: I am writing Cookie Too Lyric’s song the follow up to my Independence Day release Cookie

AOTR: What do you hope to accomplish in the literary world?

Tamika: I want to be known as one of the leading writers.

AOTR: When you are not crafting novels what do you like to do?

Tamika: I am a publisher, radio host, and mother. I am always doing something.

AOTR: How can readers contact you?

Tamika: http://www.tamikanewhouse

aambookclub@gmail.com

Follow on Twitter and FB @tamikanewhouse

AOTR: Thanks Tamika for taking the time to chat with us. We wish you continued success!

Tamika's Ten favorite things:

Chips~ Fire hot Fritos

Season- Spring and fall cause the weather is not hot or cold

Holiday ~Independence Day we get to eat, wear small amount of clothes and be around family.

Television show ~ The Game

Song ~ hard one I guess I’ll say Aaron Hall when you need me

Past time ~Home with my Mama any setting will do

Social networking site ~www.aambookclub.com

Author ~ Zuri Day

City ~I love DC

Time of day~ Night

Authors On The Rise Interviews LaDonna M. Smith

2011-03-09T05:51:00.000-08:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an Interview with Ladonna M. Smith. Please visit her site and order a copy of her book today!

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your books.

LaDonna: First and foremost I give honor to God. Thank you Dee for this opportunity.

I always find it hard to answer this question because I am humble, and a giver who doesn’t know how to receive. So here is my stab at it…I am the most down to earth individual in the world. I always say that I am a “homeboy’s homegirl and a homegirl’s home girl.” I try my best to get along with most people.

By my mother I have one younger brother Tommy, and by my dad I have 2 younger sisters.

I am a native of Fairmont Heights MD (Prince George’s County) and graduated from Fairmont Heights High School (1996), Prince George’s Community College (Associate of Arts in General Studies 2001) and am only 26 credits away from graduating at Bowie State University. However, it was not until I had to survived on my own going from house to house or “house hopping” until I ultimately ended up in Philadelphia, PA and heard the voice of God that I grew wiser, and more mature in me own walk of life. I was 19 years old. Despite me being raised in church and serving as a church musician since age 12, (I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ into me life at age 13 and I was baptized that same year) I soon found that becoming a new creature in Christ was difficult especially without the proper encouragement and general “growing pains”; not to mention the peer pressure of being a teenager. Coincidentally in my adult hood, most of the situations that I hear young people discuss cause me to blurt out words like “I have been there” and “trust me I know”. I have experienced situations in several realms of my life to include but definitely not limited to: physical, mental, sexual, spiritual and emotional abuse; homelessness; hunger; depression, and suicidal thoughts, to name a few. All of this by the age of 29 years old. If you ever hear my testimony you would not believe that I am still able to smile despite of and just because. And I believe that I have to smile because there is nothing else to do.

AOTR: Why did you write your book and what was the inspiration that made you complete it?

LaDonna: My own personal experience allowed me to write this book. I had actually began the book while launching G.R.A.Y. Magazine and co-founding another magazine, and working on an article. I started typing my experience with my “marriage” and before I knew it I had the mind set to get revenge on my ex for what he had done for me. I was going to tell the entire story and get him in trouble with the law. But as I wrote and more importantly my mind and heart transitioned from wanting revenge to becoming healed and delivered from him and the circumstances.

I completed it because I kept meeting people (notice I didn’t just say women) who had similar stories and we were both relieved to discover that we were not alone in going through these situations. We had survived and were now helping others.

To be “The voice of so many whose voices have been silenced” soon became my motto and goal for the book.

AOTR: Are there any important social issues your characters faced or discussed in your book?

LaDonna: The characters discuss domestic violence, sexual abuse, rape, feelings of being unwanted and being lonely, and the cycle of family and generational curses. Oh and endurance and survival, until inner strength is discovered and USED by the power of God!

AOTR: Who was your favorite character in your book and why?

LaDonna: Hmmm…that is a hard one…I really do not have a favorite character in the book.

AOTR: What do you hope a reader will take away after closing your book?

LaDonna: That like the bible says “this too shall pass”. I want people to know that you do not have to stay in a bad relationship. There is hope, there is a way out and most importantly God never leaves you during all of this. Reach out to Him for His guidance and direction and He will direct your path. There are 12 steps which help “jump start” a person’s motivation to begin to prepare themselves mentally for the process. Bottom line know that just because you may have had a ruff life up until the point you are at in it-there is still time to change, and redirect it. It’ not too late. No matter who counted you out or what obstacles you have been thrown – keep it moving. Your dreams and visions can still come into fruition.

AOTR: With so many books in the market, what sets your book apart?

LaDonna: My book gives you the perspective of domestic violence and abuse from the inside out. Meaning through my eyes. The preface tells you how I ended up getting into a marriage packed with domestic violence and I am totally transparent in this book. I didn’t try to appease to the Christian or non Christian market –I just told my story. I get “wows” and “for reals” all the time when I start explaining the premise behind the book.

AOTR: What projects are working you working on now?

LaDonna: God has allowed me to have so many different types of experiences and to see so much that I have several other books being worked on. Without realizing it I have become a cross-genre author.

Hannah’s Song”: A Musical Approach to Potty Training is a children’s book which has the most annoying yet affective potty training song to go with it. It is copywritten and awaiting illustrations. I have also finished a children’s book for kids sleeping in the own bed. My works in progress are a motivational book, a ministry book, another book dealing with relationships and life and more.

AOTR: What keeps you typing and creating books? Is there a person, place, or thing that inspires you to do what you do?

LaDonna: God sends me through my experiences. I write from my personal life situations and events as well as what I see around me.

AOTR: Finish this sentence. Twenty years from now I hope to have accomplished.... in my writing career.

LaDonna: Success with my own publishing company, whereas I have helped other authors transition through the process. Without sounding selfish I hope to have several other books completed and released and at least one movie. These are the minimal milestones I would like to have accomplished in much less than 20 years.

AOTR: How can readers contact you?

LaDonna: The best way is through my website www.ladonnamsmith.com because a copy of ALL emails comes to my personal email. Next would be Facebook.com/ladonnamsmith I’m on the site very often.

LaDonna's ten favorite things:

Fruit: tropical fruits-strawberries, pineapples, mangos, kiwi, cherries, juicy sweet green grapes, watermelon, cantelope, honey dew…most of the fruits.

Season: late spring into early summer when the temperatures are around 75 degrees consistantly unlike now when it’s 70 one day and 30-40 the next day.

Restaurant: of all time would have been Shakey’s Pizza which now has been closed. I guess I really don’t have a favorite one anymore but I do like to eat at the Olive Garden.

Actor: Male-Idris Elba Female: Loretta Devine and although he’s not really an actor Tyler Perry –I’m a true fan! It’s almost guaranteed that projects which any or all of these people are in-I’m going to buy a ticket.

Food: Soul food; I can eat candied yams and macaroni and cheese with just about anything!)

Author: Terry McMillan when I think about her and her accomplishments as an author I say “I wanna be like her when I grow up”.

Movie: Beat Street- the part when Ramone died still makes me cry every time I watch it. I have gotten more into plays now-I watched Tyler Perry’s “Diary of A Mad Black Woman” just about every day when I first separated from my “husband”.

Social networking site: Facebook

Accessory: Unique rings and earrings. Without earrings my face looks “funny” and “different” lol and I feel like I’m not totally dressed.

Time of day: early afternoon. I’m not a morning person and can be considered a “late owl”.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Dianne Jones

2011-03-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

AOTR is proud to bring you an Interview With Dianne Jones. Please order her books and visit her website: http://www.royaltreasurespublishing.com/...

AOTR: Tell us about your book.

Dianne: My book is titled “Tragic Treasures: Discovering Spoils of War in the Midst of Tragedy.” It’s a non-fictional, self-help, inspirational book. It’s a very personal look at how a tremendous amount of personal tragedy at a young age led me to depression. I suffered in silence from depression until my self-destructive lifestyle ended with a suicide attempt. I discuss candidly how I overcame that battle. It’s my journey to discovering purpose in pain and hidden treasures in the debris from the battles of life. My book offers insight and encouragement to others. It’s takes the reader on their own journey to discovering purpose in their pain, overcoming life tragic moments, finding hidden treasures, and using those lessons to reach their destiny.

AOTR: What's the significance of the book's title?

Dianne: The term “Tragic Treasures” means that something of value can often be found in the midst of something terrible.

“Discovering Spoils of War in the Midst of Tragedy” was inspired by one of my favorite Bible stories about King Jehosophat and the battle against the great multitude. He prepares for the battle with pray and fasting and sets his worshippers in front of his warriors and goes to the battlefield. God goes before him and kills his enemies before he even arrives. When he gets to the battlefield he finds himself surrounded by dead bodies and what I refer to as “dead things.” However, also on the battlefield in the midst of the dead things lies what the bible refers to as “Spoils of war.” So, the King does something that most of us wouldn’t do. He stays on the battlefield surrounded by dead things [loss, death, destruction, pain, anguish] for 3 days gathering the spoils of war [valuables, hidden treasures, lessons learned]. He recovers hidden treasures that we often overlook because they lie in the debris of our tragic life battles.

AOTR: What inspired you to write this very candor book?

Dianne: I’ve known since I was a teenager that I would write books. However, it was about 16 years ago when I realized that I had the opportunity and a responsibility to use my tragedies to inspire others to overcome theirs. I realized it wasn’t too late to gain the victory over a past defeat, but there would be no victory, if I couldn’t be completely and totally transparent with the reader.

AOTR: Was it difficult for you to share some of the more intimate, personal details of your life?

Dianne: Yes. It frightened me to the point that I almost didn’t write this book. I feared how people would look at me if they knew about the depression, the suicide attempt, the psych ward visit, the abortion, and all my previous self-destructive behavior. I tried to write it without revealing my truth but the words wouldn’t fall into place. The words poured out onto the page once I freed myself of the fear of rejection and stopped worrying about the approval of others and just began to tell the story as the spirit would have me reveal it.

Dianne: What type of response have you gotten towards your book?

Dianne: I’ve had so many wonderful responses from readers who say they cried, they laughed, they were inspired and encouraged. My book was also named best inspirational book of the year by readers according to Disilgold magazine out of New York.

AOTR: What other projects are you working on?

Dianne: I’m working on my 2nd book that I hope to have released by the end of this year. I’ll be in Baltimore, April 10th at Baltimore Urban Book Fest. In April, I will also be Co-host of a morning Radio Show on Blogtalk Radio. My Publishing Company is accepting manuscripts. I’m planning to offer seminars and workshops in the Atlanta area starting this summer.

AOTR: How can our readers learn more about you and your ongoing efforts?

Dianne: Readers can learn more about me by going to my website at www.royaltreasurespublishing.com where they can also purchase an autographed copy of my book. For speaking engagements, seminars, or conferences they can email me directly at drjones@royaltreasurespublishing.com

AOTR: Where can readers buy your latest book and meet you?

Dianne: Tragic Treasures is available online at www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com, www.booksamillion.com and autographed copies at my website : www.royaltreasurespublishing.com Readers can sign up for my newsletter at my website for regular updates about an upcoming events.

AOTR: What motivates you to write and stay focused on your craft?

Dianne: My motivation to write stems from what I believe is my purpose in life, "to minister to hurting people." I’ve been a Christian minister in the traditional sense of the word for a decade with deep roots in the church, but I was never quite comfortable with the position I was encouraged to pursue [the role of Pastor]. As a result, I had to step away from what I perceived to be "man's vision for my life", go back, and tap into "my Creator's vision for my life." I knew I had a gift, but it took me a number of years to realize that helping others doesn’t require a title, a position, a pulpit, or even a church. I made a decision in 2006 to pursue my ministry in a different way. God has given me an ability to identify with, communicate, and facilitate healing to hurting people through writing and inspirational/motivational speaking. What I am destined to do reaches far beyond religion, titles, positions, and church attendance; because "pain" has a spiritual component, but it has no denomination or religious affiliation.

AOTR: What inspired you to write your book?

Dianne: A number of things inspired me. I'm an avid reader. I've read hundreds of self-help and inspirational books. All were helpful in some way, but most were never transparent and the writer went to great lengths to establish themselves as the authority on the "subject", while distancing themselves from the pain. I realized while working with downtrodden people for 8 years in the heart of Baltimore's Inner City that hurting people long to connect with someone who feels their pain. When I grabbed a razor blade out of a sister's hand, who was trying to slit her wrist, in broad daylight on the corner in Baltimore, I did it because I could identify with her pain. I knew what despair and hopelessness looked like on the face of another human being, because I had been there, and I had to intervene.

So, when I began to write my book I was compelled to become so transparent about my pain until it frightened me. My book was at a standstill for a few years because of my fear about sharing all the horrid details. But I knew that I had to take the reader on a journey through the valley of my despair and we would come out together. I knew that my transparency would enable me to connect with the reader’s pain, thereby enabling me to draw the reader into a journey towards recovery.

AOTR: What message do you want people to take away after reading one of your books?

Dianne: The main message that I hope each reader takes away when finishing "Tragic Treasures" is that deep within every tragedy there are hidden lessons that are precious and priceless. Our soul's journey is to find the hidden treasures in the midst of the debris from the battles in life. Once we discover those "Spoils of War", we should embrace the life lessons and share the positive outcome. When we can do this, we can walk out our purpose, and achieve our destiny.

AOTR: How long does it take you to write a book?

Dianne: I write Inspirational non-fiction with spiritual components, so I find that my writing process is not systematic but intuitive. I allow the words to flow through me on to the pages of my books. So, however long it takes to me to get into a place where I can hear the words from within my spirit determines how long it takes for my book to manifest. My first book took years, because I was trying to control the story, as oppose to allowing the words to flow through me.

AOTR: You speak a lot on purpose, do you believe everyone has one?

Dianne: Yes, I do believe that everyone is born with a purpose. However, I also believe that many of us live our entire lives without discovery or walking out our purpose.

AOTR: Do you think people are born writers or is it something that can be taught?

Dianne: I think it’s both. Some people are natural writers and others can be taught the foundation of creating a story. However, a good writer has the ability to tell an incredible story and I think that’s something that some possess and some don’t.

AOTR: Name two people who inspired you/Why?

Dianne Maya Angelou inspires me, because she was an under-educated, single mother who struggled and overcame many tragedies to become a world-renowned story-teller and truth speaker. She is truly a phenomenal woman of grace, faith, and peace.

Nelson Mandela inspires me, because he fought back and changed a Nation. Despite physical incarceration, in his spirit he never gave up. He conquered his fear of death and was willing to die, so others could be free. He is truly a courageous and fearless man.

AOTR: Thank you for taking time to chat with us. AOTR wishes you much success!

AOTR Interviews April Alisa Marquette

2011-02-12T05:34:00.000-08:00

AOTR is delighted to bring you an interview from author April Alisa Marquette. Please show your support by picking up one of her books from Amazon.

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your debut book.

April: I’m an author – who has the ability to grab a reader from any page, pull them into a story and make them a willing captive until that story’s end. My debut novel, entitled Absolution is the story of four friends, three women, and Beau, a gay male. In this— Book I of a trilogy, the friends call themselves Cohorts and believe their friendship is near perfect. That is, until one of the women betrays the male…by cavorting with his man! Then oh the drama; there is suspense, betrayal, heartbreak, laughter, and tears.

AOTR: Why did you write your book, and where did the inspiration come from?

April: I’ll let you in on a secret. Although Absolution was my debut novel, it was not the first I’d written. Absolution came about because I kept ‘hearing’ conversations while smack dab in the middle of writing a different novel, Turnabout, a love story. The pesky chatter wasn’t suitable for what I was writing, I ignored it. Then when I began to jot it down…the characters of Absolution started to take shape. As they further ‘came alive,’ I found myself toggling back and forth, between two completely different stories.

AOTR: What do you hope people will take away after finishing your book?

April: I’d like readers to feel satisfied, and entertained. I’d like them to feel provoked, to anger, to tears, or thought. I want them to experience laugh-out-loud moments, and I want them to sense the characters’ despair, or their happiness. After finishing my books I want readers to want more. I love what one reader wrote to me. In essence she said that upon finishing a story of mine, she felt saddened as though she would no longer interact with her ‘newfound friends and family members.’

AOTR: What important lessons or teaching where you trying to convey?

April: In Absolution which is also on Kindle, I wanted to convey the joy of friendship, the beauty of people as individuals. I try to convey that we’re not all the same; some people are heterosexual, others are gay, or bi-sexual. Some have very visible faults and demons. In this story I also pose a huge question: can friends forgive, even when things have gone horribly wrong?

AOTR: Does your book deal with any inportant social issues?

April: Yes, Absolution deals with quite a few. This novel takes a look at something we’re seeing quite a bit of in the news now days, the persecution of certain members of society. Absolution also deals with tolerance, and multi-ethnic people. There are other issues that I won’t mention for fear of giving away the story, but it is good. Some readers have actually said they read all night because they just had to find out what would happen…Books II & III in this trilogy may even be more interesting!

AOTR: In one sentence tell a reader why they should read your book for their next selection.

April: Well, if a reader wants a little escapism, if they’d like to laugh, or even cry; if they just want a good captivating read, then I’m their author.

AOTR: If you had a chance to have dinner with any author dead or alive, who would it be and what is one question you would ask him or her?

April: I’d want to hear from the late great Zora Neale Hurston, in her own words, how she started writing—what was the catalyst?

AOTR: What is the best advice someone gave you, and what advice would you give to someone right now who is going through hardships?

April: The best advice a woman gave me was to hang onto my dreams. She said not to share them with everybody, because some people—even friends and family members, are dream-killers. For someone going through hardships I wouldn’t go all cliché, I hate that when you just need someone to be truthful; therefore, I’d simply say that when life tosses me down, I pray. Help doesn’t always come immediately, or when I think it ought to, but it comes.9) If you were not an author what career field would you be in?

AOTR: If you were not a writer, what would you be?

April: I’d be a teacher! I love helping people learn new things, things they thought they couldn’t master. When I tutored young people, I loved opening the world of reading and writing, and watching them blossom.

AOTR: What do you pray your legacy will be?

April: I pray that my legacy will be long lasting, that it will be that of a writer par excellent who dealt with issues not easily penned or even verbally expressed. I want it said that although I tackled difficult subjects, I did so with candor, humor, and grace.

April's 10 favorite things:

Day of the week : Monday – It offers a new start; another chance to get it right

Holiday: Christmas

Food: Fresh soft, hot, buttered bread

CD: Here I Stand – Usher

Town or city: NYC

Friend Why?: My girlfriends. We laugh, we trust, we tell each other the truth. We drink, we eat, we commiserate, and we cheer each other on!

Quote : When people show you who they are, believe them—the first time - Maya Angelou

Book :Colored People – Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

Teacher Why?: Mrs. Seryl – When I was in grade school she brought me a book a week from her extensive home collection, thereby igniting my love of reading. I thank God for her.

Hobby: Can I say eating? No, just kidding. I love to watch Brandy & Ray J.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Valjeanne Jeffers.

2011-01-12T12:59:00.000-08:00

AOTR is happy to bring you this Interview from author Valjeanne Jeffers. Please pick up one of her books and enjoy!

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your books.

Jeffers: I’m Valjeanne Jeffers and I’m a member of the Carolina African American Writers’ Collective (CAAWC) a mother, a grandmother and a teacher. I’m also the author of three science fiction novels: Immortal, Immortal II: The Time of Legend and my latest release: Immortal III: Stealer of Souls.

Immortal begins in the year 3075, on the planet Tundra: a world that has been at peace for 400 years – a world without poverty or racism. Yet Tundra is threatened by an ancient evil. Karla, a young Black woman, is a recovering addict working as a drug counselor. Intelligent and capable, she knows exactly where she’s going and what she wants. Until she closes her eyes at night…and enters a seductive and dangerous world. To save her planet Karla must find Joseph – the one man who can unravel the mystery of her dreams – and unleash the werewolf sleeping inside her.

An excerpt from Immortal 3: Stealer of Souls has been published in Genesis: An Anthology of Black Science Fiction and Pembroke Magazine Volume 39. I’ve also been published in Griots: A Sword and Soul Anthology, LuneWing, Specular Mythseed, Liberated Muse: How I Freed My Soul, The Ringing Ear, Revelry, PurpleMag numbers 7, 8 and 9, Drumvoices Revue and The Obamas: Portrait of America's New First Family.

AOTR: Why did you write your book, and what was the inspiration that made you complete it?

Jeffers: I’ve always loved to read and two of my favorite genres, since childhood, are Black literature and science fiction. I began my writing journey as a child reading the works of authors like Richard Wright and Zora Neal Houston; and writing my own poems and stories. As an adult, I was drawn into the worlds of Octavia Butler, Tananarive Due, Stephen King and so many others. I began to imagine characters and worlds in my mind. This was the birth of Immortal.

AOTR: Are there any important social issues your characters faced or discussed in your book?

Jeffers: When I first began writing Immortal, I didn’t start out with a conscious decision to write a novel that dealt with poverty, racism or war. But as my story evolved these issues and others like homelessness and unemployment just naturally became part of my journey. So yes, social issues are definitely dealt with in all three of my novels, as well personal struggles that my characters grapple with.

In my opinion there are no perfect women or men. We are all just people trying to live and cope with life and it’s ups and downs in the best way we know how. Diseases like alcoholism, drug addiction, sexual addiction are a part of real life too, and I incorporate them into lives of my characters.

AOTR: Who was your favorite character in your book? Why?

Jeffers: I would have to say one of my main characters: “Karla.” She has supernatural powers; she’s strong, intelligent, sexy, funny and she’ll fight to the death to protect those she loves. Karla was actually inspired by a young woman who befriended me when I was nine years old; a young woman who’d lost both her mother and one of her brothers; but she’d enrolled in college and was raising her two remaining brothers. For me, this character, in many ways is an archetype of so many strong, Black women I’ve met – including myself – who take all life throws at them but still “keep it pushing.”

AOTR: What do you hope a reader will take away after closing one of your books?

Jeffers: Love yourself. Whatever your dream is don’t give up. Moreover, we, as part of the human community can change our world, a little bit at a time. We can make our voices heard, if we stand together.

AOTR: With so many books in the market, what sets your books apart?

Jeffers: My novels are multi-ethnic and shape shifting, advanced technology, time travel and sorcery all co-exist within the Immortal series. Although all of my main characters have supernatural abilities they’re down to earth men and women, that are easy to know and love – I always manage to interweave their personal struggles into the plot. Against this backdrop are demonic threats to Tundra that continue to unfold with each novel, and that Karla, Joseph and others must battle to save their world.

AOTR: What projects are you working on now?

Jeffers: I’ve just finished a short story entitled the Switch, which I’ve submitted for publication. I’m also writing the sequel to Stealer of Souls.

AOTR: What keeps you typing and creating stories? Is there a person, place, or thing that inspires you to do what you do?

Jeffers: Writing is not something I do, it’s who I am. I love it – writing is as vital to me as my next breath. There are also places and times in my life that were and continue to be special. Love and the exploration of sexuality are contant sources of inspiration and imagination for me. I believe in love as both a shelter from the lifes storms and as source of strength and my characters mirror these feelings. The 1960s was time of unity and growth and this era often finds its way into my novels too, in one form or another.

AOTR: Finish this sentence. Twenty years from now I hope to have accomplished.... in my writing career.

Jeffers: Twenty years from now I hope to have accomplished writing fifteen more books, twenty more short stories and I will have become a best selling, world famous author in my writing career.

AOTR: How can readers contact you?

Jeffers: sister24moon@gmail.com

http://valjeannejeffersimmortal.webs.com/

http://www.blacksciencefictionsociety.com/profile/immortal

http://eroticpoetry.webs.com/

Valjeanne's ten favorite things

Fruit: Mangos

Season: Definitely Summer

Restaurant: First House Chinese Restaurant

Actor: Pam Grier

Food: Chinese Baked Seafood

Author: Octavia Butler

Movie: Blacula

Social networking site: http://eroticpoetry.webs.com/

Accessory: Earrings

Time of day: Midnight[book:Immortal: Second Edition|6461150][bookcover:Immortal: Second Edition|6461150]

Authors On The Rise Interviews Denise Coleman

2011-01-12T12:04:00.000-08:00

AOTR is pleased to bring you an interview from Denise Coleman. Please check out her new book and show your support!

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your debut book.

Denise: I was born and raised in Camden, NJ and feel richer for the exprience. I have four children and for the last thirteen years, I've been working in child protective services at DYFS.

My novel, Drama with a Capital D is a story about self examination and growth. The main character, Lonnie finds herself mixed up in some rather painful and drama filled situations. She'd like nothing more than to remove herself from the ugliness however, she repeatedly failes to see how her own behavior perpetuates the drama.

AOTR: Why did you write your book and where did the inspiration come from?

Denise: I wrote Drama simply because I love to write. To be an author is probably the only dream I've ever had. Without a doubt, I had to pursue it.
The biggest inspiration in my life is my family. It is because of them that I do what I do. It's important to show my children that dreams absolutely can come true.

AOTR: What do you hope people will take away after finishing your book?

Denise: The one thing I want people to take away from reading my work is ...no matter how bad it seems or how many times you get it wrong, you can change anything for the better. To grow from life's experiences is a true joy.

AOTR: What important lessons or teaching where you trying to convey?

Denise: The main lesson in the story is that life is going to happen. Good and bad exist together. To stand strong and positive in it all will take us far.

AOTR: With so many books on the market, what sets yours apart?

Denise: I believe the realism and humor of Drama sets it apart from what I've been reading lately. There are so many authors I enjoy reading today but, our lives aren't solely based on sex and or drugs. There are still every day people who have difficulties to contend with and my novel encompasses one of those stories.6. Drama with a Capital D should be read quite simply because, it's a realistic, relatable, enjoyable page turner!

AOTR: In one sentence tell a reader why they should read your book for their next selection.

Denise: Drama with a Capital D should be read quite simply because, it's a realistic, relatable, enjoyable page turner

AOTR: If you had a chance to have dinner with any author dead or alive, who would it be? What is one question you would ask him or her?

Denise: If I could have dinner with anyone it would be Donald Goins. I'd like to ask him about his experiences with getting published during a time when very few African American titles were available to us.

AOTR: What is the best advice someone in the book industry gave you? What advice would you give to someone right now trying to get published?

Denise: Honestly the best advice I've ever received was..."Don't stress. Just take it one sentence at a time."

My adviced to up and coming authors would be to find a great editor and listen to them. Don't make the mistake of thinking you know everything. Professional editors see things about our stories that we may not catch. They truly are a blessing at bringing out the best in us.

AOTR: How did you go about becoming a published author?

Denise: My journey to getting published was a great deal of luck and maybe just a bit of destiny. Once I had a completed project, I made a list of publishers and began sending in submissions. Melodrama was at the top of my list and fortunately, they liked what I wrote and offered me a contract.

AOTR: If you were not an author what career field would you be in?

Denise: If I couldn't write I would definitely do what I'm doing now. It is truly fulfilling to work in a field that's all about being there for our children.

AOTR: What do you pray your legacy will be?

Denise: I would like to leave a legacy of hope, courage and conviction. Dream big and go for it!

AOTR: Can you give us an ideal on what you are working on now?

Denise:The next piece on the horizon is a coming of age story about four female teens who are forced to move in with realtives they barely know. This occurance changes them in ways that lead each girl in a direction in her life no one could have predicted. More drama and more laughter for sure.

AOTR: How can readers contact you and find out more information about you and your books?

Denise: Readers can follow me on Twitter which is the best way to reach me directly, @ DeniseRColeman.
Facebook @ Author Denise Coleman's fan page. My blog, WWW.Truewordsdc.blogspot.com and of course they can check me out on Melodrama publishing.com

Denise's favorites:
Day- Saturday
Holiday - Thanksgiving
Food - Lasagna
CD- Anything Jay Z
City - Camden
Friend - All of my friends are my favorite. They are amazing people! I'm so blessed!
Quote- Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you've imagined-Thoreau
Book- The autobiogrophy of Malcolm X.
Teacher - Every black woman I've ever had the pleasure of learning from.
Pasttime - Reading!!!!!!

Authors On The Rise Interviews Liane Spicer

2010-12-15T08:32:00.000-08:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an interview with Liane Spicer, author of, Cafe au Lait. If you have not read the book, please visit the links provided below to buy a copy.

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your book.

Liane: I taught English for many years, then left to follow my dreams. Was I in for a ride! Apart from completing and publishing Café au Lait I've worked as a newspaper editor, human resource manager and company administrator, each in a different country. There's a certain exhilaration in not knowing exactly what lies ahead; I thrive on that.

Café au Lait is the story of two good people who find each other and fall in love but are unable to trust what they feel. Michael has a legacy of a cheating ex-wife; Shari is haunted by an ill-fated love affair and the plane crash that killed her best friend. After his scandalous divorce Michael loses himself in his work and tries to keep his hands off of Shari, but their desire for each other is too strong. To complicate matters, they're beset by one enigma after another. Why the flashes of déjà vu when they are together? What is the true connection between Michael and the sultry Zoë who does not even try to mask her hatred for Shari? And was the death of Michael's parents really an accident? Dogged by shadows and secrets, their paths crisscross on the island as they try to untangle the threads that draw them together and keep them apart.

AOTR: How did you come up with the idea to write Cafe au Lait?

Liane: Back when I was teaching my colleagues and I often bemoaned the fact that we never saw romances that featured people of color. When Kensington Publishing started the Arabesque line of AA romances I said to myself: You've always had this dream of being a writer. What better way to begin than with a multicultural romance? Once I made that decision the story began to take shape in my head. As for the setting - it had to be my homeland! Café au Lait celebrates the triumph of love, but it also celebrates the beauty of the Caribbean islands I call home.

AOTR: How long did it take to write Cafe au Lait?

Liane: The first draft took about three months, but then I put the project aside for years while other priorities took over my life. When I got back to Café au Lait I added four chapters and deepened the story so it did not end at the wedding-and-happily-ever-after point. It was at this stage that the mystery and suspense really emerged, and this provided the twists and turns that made the novel evolve from a simple boy-meets-girl romance into a more complex portrayal of a contemporary relationship.

AOTR: Did the story just come to you or did you have to write out a plot and follow it?

Liane: I began with the setting (Caribbean) and the characters. Once I knew who the hero and heroine were, the story revealed itself to me and I wrote a rough outline. The story soon grew beyond the outline and took on a life of its own.

AOTR: How did you go about publishing your book? Was the publishing process tough or smooth for you?

Liane: It's always tough. Most writers start out knowing nothing about the business of publishing, which is a very different animal from the craft of writing. I had a lot to learn and set about researching with a vengeance. I acquired an agent within months of beginning the query process and she sold the novel to Dorchester Publishing within a year.

AOTR: Explain to us how you felt when you saw your finished book for the first time.

Liane: It's almost indescribable, that feeling of achievement, that this story you conjured out of thin air now has a corporeal life in books on shelves all over the world, and a spiritual life in the minds of its readers. Transitioning from 'writer' to 'author' is a dream come true and an honor I don't take lightly.

AOTR: What is the best advice you would give to aspiring authors?

Liane: Learn your craft. Read widely. Do your research before ever sending out a query so you learn the protocols of the publishing industry.

AOTR: What authors inspired you as a writer?

Liane: Maya Angelou, Erica Jong, Arundhati Roy, Georgette Heyer, Zora Neale Hurston, Rosa Guy, Baroness Orczy, Shakespeare! Many, many more.

AOTR: Can you tell us what you are currently working on?

Liane: I've completed my second contemporary romance, Give Me the Night. I've also finished the first draft of a memoir on raising my son and I'm quarter way into my first mainstream novel.

AOTR: When it's all said and done what do you want your legacy to be?

Liane: I'd like my legacy to be a body of work that reflects the things I hold dear. The romance and romantic suspense novels come from the part of me that flies in the face of my own cynicism: that's the part that believes transformational, incandescent, committed love between a man and a woman can and does exist. Then there's the memoir that preserves treasured parts of my life such as the years I spent raising my son. I love being a mom! Finally, the mainstream book(s) in which I grapple with stories about women and their conflicts and challenges in the context of their family history and society.

AOTR: How can readers find out more about you and your books?

Liane: My website/blog: www.lianespicer.blogspot.com. I've linked reviews, interviews, writing sites, books for writers and more on the site. I'm also on Facebook.

AOTR: Thank you for taking time to chat with us! We wish you much success!

Liane's 10 favorite things:

Cartoon as a child: The Pink Panther!

Social network: Facebook, but it's a love-hate relationship.

Pastime: Reading, hands down. I also enjoy blogging, hiking and growing roses.

Friend or family member. Why? I won't name my favorite family members because that might start fights and name-calling, so... Favorite friends are D and M: D because she has no artifice, no guile, no facade, no agenda. I'm glad there's one of her in this world. M on the other hand was my muse for Michael, the hero in Café au Lait. He's the sexiest man I know, a good listener and a kindred spirit.

Junk food: My Hooters staple! Clam chowder, chicken strips and celery stalks with blue cheese dip.

Word: All words, all language. I get excited over the Greek roots of words, the origins of expressions. I flirt with strange words, have secret affairs with them, seduce them into my writing, and get intimate with them. My father recently taught me a new one and it's my current favorite: callipygian, which means having shapely buttocks. :)

Song: Probably A Lovely Day by Bill Withers, closely followed by Sting's Shape of My Heart, Memory from Cats and Michael Bolton's version of Georgia on My Mind.

Quote: "Not all who wander are lost." - Tolkien

Year: I can't single out one. Two that come to mind are the year I gave birth to my son and the year Café au Lait was released. The year I got my agent was pretty cool too. I try to make each year count, to live and grow and learn and achieve no matter what the circumstances.

Time of day: The night! I'm definitely nocturnal.

--
Liane Spicer
Author of CAFÉ AU LAIT (Dorchester Publishing)
Co-coordinator of the Novel Spaces author group
www.lianespicer.com
www.lianespicer.blogspot.com
www.novelspaces.blogspot.com

Book Pick For December

2010-12-06T13:25:00.000-08:00

Authors On The Rise Book Pick For December Is: "Pious" by Kenn Bivins

Five out of five stars for "Pious", a novel by Kenn Bivins.

THE REVIEW:

Mechi Lane is a family oriented neighborhood that anyone would be proud to reside in.
The people in this close knit community look out for one another and are hardworking and sociable. However, behind the facades and closed doors, the citizens are not who they portray themselves to be.

Carpious Mightson is the cornerstone in this loving community. To his neighbors, he is a man of integrity. He is a role model and father figure to his girlfriend Sydney’s eight-year old son, Solomon. He’s even known to extend a helping hand with his neighbor’s daughter Haleigh. But when his cunning ex wife Alethea returns, and a registered sex-offender move onto Mechi lane, Carpious well hidden past is in jeopardy of being exposed; and he will do whatever he must do in order to stop it.

Debut author, Kenn Bivins, has penned a solid, engaging novel. This book had me enthralled by the suspenseful cliffhangers. Just when I would be about to put the book down (Due to everyday life issues) something would occur that would keep me glued to the pages. I wanted to see how Mr. Bivins would tie everything up. At first, I did not understand why Carpious behaved in the manner that he did, but then the author gave us a glimpse into his turbulent past that was a real tear jerker. It made me understand why Carpious did what he did, no matter how heartless it seemed.

The secondary cast of characters was exciting to read about too. Alethea made me laugh with her realistic dialogue. I enjoyed the story with Lela too. I rooted for her and applauded her at the end of the novel for making the decisions she did. I do hope the author will bring Lela and Alethea back in another book so I can see what became of them.

I highly recommend Pious. It is an outstanding novel that will make you meditate on who you are, or are pretending to be long after the last word.

Reviewed by AOTR book reviewer: Christi Baker

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Carpious Mightson is not who he appears to be, wearing the guise of a handsome leader of virtue. He seems friendly, loving, hard working, and God-fearing. Little do his neighbors, co-workers, and girlfriend know that almost two decades ago, he was serving a twenty-year sentence for murder.

When Ian Kaplan, a registered sex-offender, moves into the family-friendly community of Mechi Lane, the home owner’s association “volunteers” Carpious to compel Ian to put his house back on the market and leave.

While Carpious is struggling to maintain his secret, Alethea Mightson, Carpious’ addict ex-wife, resurfaces in an attempt to get money from him. In her desperation, she threatens to expose his past to everyone if he doesn’t comply.

A new murder occurs as Carpious’ composure begins to spiral out of his control, and all that he has built threatens to topple. Will the consequences of new sins expose the old ones? (less)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Kenn Bivins is an Art Director at one of the largest advertising agencies in the world. He has worked as an illustrator and designer in many mediums that include comics, magazines, animation, and interactive media. Even though his background is layered in the arts, Kenn has always been a writer.

He states, “Even if I’m simply illustrating a cat, there is a story in my head about that cat – how he moves, why his tail is so bushy, whether he sleeps on a windowsill or under a bed, and so on. Words aren’t the only means to tell a story.”

Authors On The Rise Interviews Lakisha Spletzer

2010-11-15T10:01:00.000-08:00

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Authors On The Rise is delighted to bring you an Interview with Lakisha Spletzer. Please show your support by picking up one of her books for your next read.

AOTR: Briefly tell us about yourself and your book.

Lakisha: My name is Lakisha and I'm a single parent who has a college degree but who currently does tax preparation for H & R Block. I haven't really used my degree for much and that's okay with me. I'm a cross-genre writer, meaning I like to mix and match genres in my novels.

I have two books out: "Jewels" which was my debut novel and "Werelove Dusk Conspiracy". "Jewels" is a space opera (sci-fi) with romantic and paranormal elements. "Werelove Dusk Conspiracy" is a paranormal romance with sci-fi elements.

AOTR: When did you decide you wanted to be a writer?

Lakisha: I've been writing since the age of 8. I didn't want to become a Published writer, until 2004 after joining a writer's workshop group.

AOTR: Where did you come up with the idea for your book?

Lakisha: "Jewels" came from a novella anthology call from Samhain Publishing for space opera-themed novellas. I took a blog post that was written in the first-person by a female voice, changed the name and went to work. I realized after I submitted it that a novella didn't do the story justice and I was happy to see it get rejected. I took it and wrote another 150 pages and was happy with the result. "Werelove" came from my desire to write a Young Adult novel that dealt with issues I had growing up like bullying, loneliness, first love, and family ties.

AOTR: What was the writing process like for your book? Did it just come to you or did you have to outline or do any other different processes?

Lakisha: The writing process for me is different with each book. One novel might come from an idea that pops into my head, while another might be inspired by a writing prompt. As to the actual writing of my novels, I can be a panster and/or a plotter, and sometimes both. "Jewels" was a panster novel whereas "Werelove Dusk Conspiracy" was a combination of the two styles.

AOTR: Did you write about any important social issues in this book? If so, please share them with us and tell us why you chose these issues.

Lakisha: "Werelove" probably has a little more social issues than "Jewels". "Jewels" does deal with discrimination in various forms. "Werelove" deals with bullying, dysfunctional families, single-parent families, obsessive/stalker type love, racism (Weres [shapeshifters] and Humans], teenage love & relationships, as well as the duality of a person's nature that drives them to behave in a certain fashion.

AOTR: What aspects of your own life are woven into your book? Or do you just write what is in your head?

Lakisha: The axiom is "Write what you know," so a lot of the themes/subjects that I write about in my stories come from my own personal experiences, experiences of others, or is a reaction to something I've seen or heard on the news.

AOTR: What do you hope readers will take away after reading your book?

Lakisha: I hope that if they are dealing with any of those types of subjects I touch on (bullying, loneliness, etc.) that they take courage and realize they are not alone. That others have been there and we're here today to tell you that you can make it.

AOTR: What sets your book apart? What makes it new; different?

Lakisha: I think that what sets my books apart is that I'm all about the characters. In reviews, especially for "Werelove", my work has been described as character-driven. When I write, I try to make my characters, whether they are alien, shapeshifters, or human, easy to relate to. I want the readers to look past the exterior and see what is inside, which is what counts at the end of the day. I think what makes "Werelove" different is that I'm not focusing on just one type of were-creature. Also the fact that the protagonist is half werewolf and half werecat is definitely different.

AOTR: How did you go about getting published? Was the process difficult?

Lakisha: I tried the traditional method of sending out to agents and publishers and didn't get anywhere. That's when I decided to take a leap of faith and go indie. I haven't looked back yet. Being an indie author can be difficult because you have to do/find everything that a publisher would do for you. You have to find an editor, a cover artist/illustrator, you have to format your novel for publication and then you have to market yourself. It can be very daunting and you have to be motivated in order to go the indie route.

AOTR: Anything about the book Industry that shocked you after you released your book?

Lakisha: Not really. The book industry is like any other industry: the bottom line. They only want things that sell, will back the things that bring in the money and if you're not a significant part of that process, then you will be weeded out.

AOTR: When you are not writing, what else do you enjoy doing?

Lakisha: When I'm not writing, I'm busy with my children which takes a lot of time since I'm a single parent. I've always been an avid reader so whenever I can snag time to read, I do that too. I also like to dance.

AOTR: When it's all said and done, what do you want your legacy to be?

Lakisha: I hope that people enjoy what I've written and that they pass that joy along to others.

AOTR: Please tell interested readers how they can contact you and find out more information on you and your book?

Lakisha: You can find me at my website "Kishaz World" (http://www.kishazworld). I also have a blog, "Inner Muse" (http://www.kishazworld.com/innermuse).

If you're into social media, you can find me at these spots:

Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lakisha-Spletzer/204606745387

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/kishazworld

Email: author@kishazworld.com

AOTR: Thank you for chatting with us. AOTR wish you much success!

Lakisha's ten favorites:

Color: I actually have three: purple, blue, and green

Soda: Dr. Pepper and then Sprite if the first isn't available

Season: Summer. I hate the cold.

Actor: Hmm, I actually don't have one.

Inspirational quote: "Do or do not. There is no try." -- Master Yoda, Star Wars

Author: I have several on my shortlist: Elissa Malcohn, Piers Anthony, Andre Norton, Anne McCaffrey

Restaurant: Any that has good food *winks*

Piece of clothing: Loose-fitting or baggy. I'm a comfort freak.

Television show: Shortlist: Fringe, Stargate Universe, Sanctuary, Smallville

City: None. I'm a true country girl

Authors On The Rise Interviews K.L. Brady

2010-11-11T13:36:00.000-08:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an interview with K.L Brady. Enjoy! Please show support by grabbing a copy of K.L's book.

AOTR: Tell us about you and your book.

K.L: My debut novel, THE BUM MAGNET, is about a woman, 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 take stock of her life and assess why she keeps selecting the same kind of men (players) over and over again. No sooner than she decides to give up men until she works through her issues, they start coming out of the woodwork, especially a sexy irresistible businessman named Dwayne Gibson. She goes against her better instinct and puts herself in a position where she has to navigate a minefield of men while trying to work on herself at the same time--with often hilarious results.

AOTR: When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

K.L: I've been writing since I was very young. I've always kept diaries and journals throughout my life, so I always knew I wanted to be a writer. Unfortunately, I didn't decide to become a published author until I turned forty. Turning forty will certainly make you look back at your life and wonder whether you've fulfilled your life's purpose or whether you've got work to do. I had lots of work to do.

AOTR: What inspired you to write your first book?

K.L: I had an Oprah "Aha" moment one day during 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 my work didn't fulfill me. I was watching an episode of Oprah when she had Eckhart Tolle on discussing his book AWAKENING YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE when it hit me that I wasn't living my best life or fulfilling my life's purpose. What good was putting everything in my heart in journals and diaries where no one could see them? I also got hung up on the fact that I didn't have a degree in English so I couldn't be a writer, right? Wrong. I got over myself, pushed the negative thoughts aside, and just wrote from my heart. The result is a book that has really resonated with women of all races, ethnicities, and social backgrounds. The character is very relatable.

AOTR: Was it difficult to write or easy?

K.L: Writing is pretty easy for me. It's the editing that's a killer. I don't want to edit. I hate editing. But I have to edit and revise. There's no shortcut around that if you want to publish quality products.

AOTR: How did you go about creating your characters?

K.L: My characters are based on me or people I've known throughout my life. Each one is kind of a mish mash of several people so no one can sue me for slander.

AOTR: Did you struggle with any of your characters or did they just speak to you?

K.L: My characters speak to me, usually around three o'clock in the morning. It's unreal. I often feel like I'm just taking dictation. I like writing this way because I believe that's why people say the characters in my book seem so authentic. They are coming from a very real place.

AOTR: What was your writing process like? Did you outline or just write naturally?

K.L: I have tried to be a good author and outline and I can't do it. I tend to just let the words flow how and whenever they decide to come to me. I've tried to plot and I find that it actually stifles my creativity. I also find that when I let my characters drive the story, the story is usually way more interesting than anything I could come up with myself.

AOTR: What important lessons did you convey in your book?

K.L: I don't think I really write to convey lessons. I try to entertain first and if a message comes from that...great. We get a two for one. With that said, I do think a few key themes stick out. First and foremost is that when we find ourselves repeating the same bad behaviors over and over and over again, at some point we have to stop playing the blame game and take a look in the mirror at who we are and how we're contributing to the problem. Another theme is that when traumatic events happen in your life, childhood or otherwise, you can't just sweep those incidents under the rug to make them go away. If you don't deal with them in a real way, they will only manifest themselves in your behaviors and your relationships.

AOTR: With so many books on the market, what sets your book apart?

K.L: I think I read some place that there are no more original stories to be told. They've all been done. The originality is in HOW you tell the story. I think what sets my novel apart is that the characters' voices are very authentic, real, and often downright hilarious...and every woman knows at least one Charisse so you can relate to her plight, her lows, and her triumphs.

AOTR: In a few words tell an interested reader why they should read your book next.

K.L: If you want a laugh out loud funny book with relatable flawed characters, this is the right one for you. This is a book my readers buy multiple copies of so they can give them to their girlfriends.

AOTR: What are you working on now?

K.L: I've just finished writing the sequel to THE BUM MAGNET, which I've tentatively titled GOT A RIGHT TO BE WRONG. That may change. I left a few loose ends dangling at the end of first book so I tie them up nicely in the second.

I wrote my first young adult novel romantic comedy "MIZZ UNDERSTANDINGZ" which is a YA-Urban variation on Pride and Prejudice, the English literary classic. It puts a twist on the story in a way that I personally haven't seen before...and I'm a huge Jane Austen fan. She is, to me, the original chick lit author.

I'm currently working on my second YA novel, a little more dramatic, called SOUL OF THE BAND. It's about a music-loving inner city teen is sent to Smalltown, Ohio, to live with her aunt until her mother recovers from a mental breakdown that leaves them homeless. There, she becomes the only African American member of an all white marching band as she struggles to maintain her identity and build a new life--with her checkered past and racial tensions simmering just beneath a tenuous social scene.

AOTR: What do you hope to accomplish in the literary world?

K.L: I started out as a self published author, so getting picked up by Simon & Schuster this year was a major accomplishment, one of those blessings I wasn't even looking for.

Aside from that, I want to write books that make people laugh out loud, cry, and everything in between. Getting emails and notes from readers saying how much they loved the characters has been one of the biggest highlights of my life and I hope to keep them coming. However, if I also happen to write books that Hollywood producers feel are well-suited to movies...I'm good with that too. :)

AOTR: When you are not crafting novels what do you like to do?

K.L: I spend time with my ten-year-old son most of the time. I also love to read, dance, listen to music, watch football, and hang out with my friends when we're not all flying by the seats of our pants.

AOTR: How can readers contact you?

K.L: My website is: www.authorklbrady.com
My email is: karla@klbradywrites.com
Facebook Fan Page: K.L. Brady

You can pre-order the Simon & Schuster version of The Bum Magnet for the low low price of $7.99 at:

http://www.amazon.com/Bum-Magnet-K-L-Brady/dp/1451613709/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top (Mass Market Paperback)
http://www.amazon.com/Bum-Magnet-The-ebook/dp/B0043RSJT0/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2 (Kindle Version)
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Bum-Magnet/K-L-Brady/e/9781451613704/?itm=1
www.borders.com

OR

You can still get autographed copies of the original self-published version (limited quantities available) at:

http://www.amazon.com/Bum-Magnet-K-L-Brady/dp/0615307043/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1288802483&sr=8-2

AOTR: Thank you for chatting with us! We wish you much success!

K.L's ten favorite things:

Chips - Utz

Season - Summer

Holiday - Thanksgiving

Television show - Tie between Run's House and The T.O. Show

Song - Right now - "Why Would You Stay" by Kem

Past time - NFL Football

Social networking site - Facebook hands down

Author - Jane Austen and Terry McMillan are definitely among my all-time favorites.

City - Tie between NYC and Chicago

Time of day - After five on weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday :)

Authors On The Rise Interviews Esther Bradley- DeTally

2010-11-08T13:39:00.001-08:00

Authors On the Rise Is happy to bring you an interview with Esther Bradley- DeTally, author of: You Carry The Heavy Stuff. Please grab a copy of her book and post your reviews.

AOTR: Please tell us about you the person and the author.

Esther: Glad that’s worded that way, because above all we are all persons first. In 1990 I started publishing personal and reflective essays in various journals. A writer friend from Israel had recommended me and many other yet to be published writers to write for a particular publication in Australia/New Zealand. This journal was globally distributed. When my friend suggested I submit some of my stuff, I thought, “Is that stuff under the bed collecting dust balls?” But in 1992 I was married to my wonderful husband Bill and we were living in Ukraine, in the City of Dnepropetrovsk, and this magazine published an essay about our lives in Ukraine.

I’m from Boston, born in Boston, and I remember blackout curtains from World War II on our windows and peeing in the dark. I remember the 50s and being a Catholic girl and going to a public high school. I had no writing inclination, but read voraciously from six years on. A huge influence was my mom who became a major alcoholic, but was a lover of books and also taught Latvian women to speak and read English when they came to our little brown rented house on Wren Street, and they spoke of the Iron Curtain, and their husbands lost behind this curtain. I remember thinking in images of a giant iron shower curtain spread across a vast land.

I grew up in a stratified society, where people drew lines about religious affiliations, class position, race, difference. I was a child in the 40s, a young girl in the 50s and was Catholic. In my twenties, I drove to California after the Cuban crisis, drove out by myself. My mother had died; my father remarried; my twin was somewhere; the family was dysfunctional and scattered. My older brother and sister weren’t around. I was a legal secretary and outwardly gutsy but inwardly a wimp.

I discovered the Baha’i Faith at 27, and felt as if I stepped out of a black and white photograph into the land of color. I stopped drinking, even though I hadn’t yet connected the dots of alcoholism sitting in my family’s history box for generations. I immediately became aware of the oneness of humanity, and my old stereotypical views fell off me like corrugated cardboard. Still, until I die, I must be aware of prejudice and how it is inhaled by a baby when born. My life is incredibly full –I teach writing to homeless women and others. I give a lot of free workshops. I guess you could say my husband and I are activists as we totally believe in service to the community at large. I used to be fearful but didn’t show it, and I faced life and have crawled over railroad tracks in Donetsk and been in Ukraine during the Russian coup and written a book about it. I’ve been to Siberia, and I have a son Nicholas who is married and a granddaughter. One last thing: I jump out of airplanes to say hello to Pug Dogs even if they are only dark little dots on the ground. That’s sounds very year-booky.

Mostly I totally believe in the splendor of the human condition, and am horrified by the meanness of our age, but have tremendous hopes for the future. I believe one becomes mystical by embracing the grit of one’s time and that we should be anxiously concerned about the needs of our age. I am the last of my siblings, my twin having died a few years ago. I’ve survived heart surgeries, blah, blah, blah, and walk an hour a day; sound like a gadabout and light up like a pinball machine when celebrating, reading, writing, a good book, justice, being a solace to someone else, being a source of light and laughter.

AOTR: When did you first know you wanted to be an author?

Esther: In 1980, when I got a chance to go back to college, I wanted to learn writing.

AOTR: Did you take any classes or go to school to learn to write, or did it just come naturally?

Esther: No. Writing letters came naturally, but I had no idea whether studying writing would ruin my fledgling writing or not. I went to UC Irvine and enrolled as a junior at 42 as a single mom, fresh from what felt like 100 years of work as a legal secretary. I majored in English as I read voraciously and thought that the most practical. I had no dreams of becoming an attorney. I took a summer class and wrote a story about a blue dye eviscerating the earth from a jeans factory and a dog named Lance I think. I didn’t have the knowhow or the courage to have dialogue. There was lance, the blue die, the inhabitants of earth leaving the planet, and the owner of lance, a woman who died.
My first writing teacher said, “Take every writing course this school has to offer.”

I took expository writing in the second quarter and the TA said “Take every writing course this school has to offer,” because I wrote a piece about who I was after reading an excerpt of May Sarton’s Journal of a Solitude. Reader her talk about depression, writing and planting flowers caused me to think, I can do this. I remember feeling electrified, not hugely, but nevertheless animated.

I then took Beginning Fiction with Oakley Hall, and I was nervous. He has written a book on the novel; was co-head of the UCI Writing Program, and is well respected. He went to Iowa I think. I was nervous until I looked under the large square table where we all assembled, and I saw faded purple Rit died socks, and then looked up into his broad face, and kind eyes, and his hair looked like yarn. He taught how to show, how to be the camera eye, how to use strong verbs, and I flourished.

I then went on to take an advanced writing class with the other co-head who didn’t like older women, but thought I was a very good writer. He tried to discourage me, and I think he did so, because he didn’t make it in the way he expected. It was rough, but I hung in.

Then I took journalism with a very good Journalist who had been nationally known, and he said, “You are a good writer, but what the hell are you trying to say.” I also took courses after graduating as part of teacher training in teaching secondary writing, and Writing the Natural Way. I use those methods when I teach workshops.

I also took from the Pied Piper of Workshop Leaders, Jack Grapes in Los Angeles who is a method writing teacher, and I took his beginning workshop. Then I waited 10 years, took his advanced courses, and around 2003 I was bursting through sound barriers. . I have written 2 books: Without A Net: A Sojourn in Russia and You carry the Heavy Stuff, the most recent.

I took a UCLA class too and we were not allowed to praise or criticize anyone’s writings, no comments, but the instructor told me I was very good. So yes, I took classes and really learned method, and craft of showing, use strong verbs, and still read voraciously.

AOTR: Please tell us about your book and how you came up with the idea for it.

Esther: As I mentioned I had a previous book, and the 2nd edition has pictures. Without A Net: A Sojourn in Russia, about our 3 year period before, during and after the breakup of the Soviet Union. It is a personal view, a behind the scenes sideways type of thing - personal, funny, sad, hard, and spiritual.

I joined CHPercolator Coffeehouse for writers because my friend Steve kept encouraging me. We all give prompts to write about at periodic intervals and thus, writers from around the globe write or not write every day.

After 2 years, I looked at my previous writing and the CHPerc bundle, and thought “It’s time to do another book.” It’s called You Carry the Heavy Stuff and has a street sign that says, “It’s all grist for the Mill, been there, done that, what’s next,” with a pug’s back to the reader and a tall thin red-haired lady with an old leather type valise, inky papers sticking out of it, and she’s wearing red high top sneakers. That’s my persona. I have used “It’s all grist for the mill” so much; people will soon begin to scream.

I had a mother in law who was the size of a small tree trunk and didn’t take noth'in from no one and we lived with her after we came back from Russia because we didn’t think it was wise for her to live alone. When I first met her, Bill and I were packing up our bags to drive away, and she and I were loading stuff at an open trunk, when this low growly voice (hers) said to me, “You carry the heavy stuff for him.” So I wrote a piece about her.

Anna was her name, and Italian momma was her game. I both laughed inwardly and groaned. I wasn’t insulted. Had I been 20, I’d have run away. This book is a series of poetry and prose about who I was, am; life in an office cubicle; life in middle school and a world view taking shape, life after 9/11; essays on prejudice, which makes my African-American friends cry, and essays on spirituality and eating falafel at the Mercatz (shopping area top of Haifa hills) in Israel. I also talk lightly and deeply about social conditions, Baghdad, being a twin, having a twin die, and packing for the future. All of my pieces reflect varied writing styles.

A fellow writer wrote “You Carry the Heavy Stuff reveals an author who engages life with grit, honesty and good humor. Bradley-DeTally rests thoughtfully at a quiet stream to make serene observations, and then she’s up and away again to fight her good fight with a Tally HO! A refreshing read that combines a depth dimension with the tragicomedy that is life.”

I was going to call the book Writing on the Fly, and I had everything in it: fiction, surrealism, poetry, short stories, and then I trimmed it down and a friend said, “Writing on the Fly is overused.” So I had a brief contest where I promised a few select friends a Starbucks coffee card if they voted on a selection of about 5 titles. You Carry the Heavy Stuff carried the day.

I don’t outline. Let me repeat that I don’t outline. I free write and then I tweak, tweak, tweak. I am pretty spontaneous and word crazy some friends might add.

AOTR: Which of your characters were your favorite and why?

Esther: My favorite characters are pugs and the people in Children of the Stolen Ones, a poem I hope which gives honor to my brothers and sisters of African heritage.

AOTR: What traits and characteristics did you give some of your characters to make them memorable?

Esther: Courage, nobility and the human condition is a sideways view.

AOTR: Does your book have any important themes or lessons you wanted to convey?

Esther: Well, it’s memoir-ish so the traits would be pissy, funny, ballsy, outspoken, socially concerned, deeply spiritual, thrown in with the theme of global citizenship and the inhumanity of man and the humanity of man (generic man of course).

My themes speak of the wonders and need for oneness; the need to throw prejudice off the planet, the nobility of the anonymous and the suffering among us, the struggle and beauty of the dying cancer patients, the humanity of others, and the downright wonders of slinging around language like hash.

AOTR: What was the road to publication like? Was it turbulent or fairly easy?

Esther: I am too old to look for an agent, and have a small following – think larger than a beer truck but smaller than the Coliseum in LA so my friend Steve said “Publish through Lulu.” He has done so with several witty books. Reader it was hell, pure unadulterated hell. Very Kafkaesque and tortuous until I finally gave in and bought a Lulu package, and then it was a miracle. Price wise it’s the best so far, but I’m not an enchanted devotee. One gets lost in Lulu like getting lost in the Hotel California, “It’s a lovely place….but you can’t get out …. Lost in the Hotel California. The biggest thing about a book is not thinking about writing one, not thinking about publishing, but marketing after it’s done. My advice is take it step my step and “follow the force” so to speak.

AOTR: Please tell a reader what they should know about your book before the purchase them.

Esther: It’s creative non-fiction, spunky, funny, shows a variety of writing styles, almost a book of prompts plus points of view as an extra added package! It’s 14.96 (the extra penny is the hell part.) Also there’s a download – e book type of thing. (You Carry The Heavy Stuff) http://stores.lulu.com/sorrygnat and http://www.amazon.com/Carry-Heavy-Stuff
Esther-Bradley-DeTally. I recommend the Lulu site because you can read some of the pages. I also have some I can mail.

AOTR: Words of wisdom for aspiring writers.

Esther: Read, read, read, read, write, journal, write, never give up; take courses, watch, listen learn, imitate, and trust the process.

estherbill@gmail.com http://sorrygnat. Word press. com blog

AOTR: What current projects are you working on?

Esther: I am writing a book about someone with deleted memory; in interview process and at the beginning right now. I also teach the writing process, currently with homeless women, and their volunteers, and under the literacy umbrella of local libraries, plus give individual sessions and have writing groups.

AOTR: What do you want your legacy to be?

Esther: To have left the world showing worlds of unity, love and laughter, and to be a point of light in the dark dark nights of the soul, and to laugh and yuk about recipes, ham sandwiches and to promote the oneness of mankind, but to write, and know the power of words, the love of them, their ordinariness and majesty and not to worry about publishing, but think of the journey itself.

I wish for a world where everyone is a trust of the whole.

AOTR: Thank you for chatting with AOTR! We wish you much success!

Esther’s ten favorites.

Favorite time of day: First cup of coffee brought to me in bed by wonderful husband of 25 years.

Dessert: vanilla ice cream and dark, thick and creamy hot fudge sauce.

Teacher – Miss Halloran, in book; changed my world view from neighborhood to vast history and dimensions and the dangers of war within a 5 minute read of giant poster on her wall.

Social networking site; Facebook

Favorite city: Pasadena

Music: Rodrigo’s Concerto de Aranjuez

Color: the rainbow

Pastime: drinking coffee, and talking about real stuff with friends

Book: Oh my the over 600 on Goodreads, but if you don’t have time, Gleanings by Baha’u’llah, and An Interrupted Life, Etty Hillesum, and, and

‘Nothing save that which profiteth them shall ever befall my loved ones.’-Baha’u’llah

You Carry the Heavy Stuff

Authors On The Rise Interviews Yvonne Pierre.

2010-09-16T05:01:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise Is proud to bring you an interview with author Yvonne Pierre. Read this powerful Interview and be inspired. Enjoy!

AOTR: Briefly tell us about yourself and your book.

Yvonne: Sure, my name is Yvonne Pierre, proud mom of two boys ages 17 and 8. Over the past few years, I have been focused on advocating positive special needs awareness through various online projects. My passion for the disabled community stems from my own experience of having a child with special needs. My youngest son was diagnosed with Down syndrome after birth. I am also passionate about using my voice to inspire those who have went through some of the struggles I have. Just recently, I launched a memoir called, “The Day My Soul Cried.” The book is about the process I went through to overcome many trials from child abuse, financial struggles to personal battles such as reading, ups and downs with weight and self-esteem. To sum it up, I’m a mom, advocate, entrepreneur, first time author and soon to be filmmaker.

AOTR: Why did you decide to write, The Day My Soul Cried?

Yvonne: Initially, I started off writing another book. I wanted to write an inspirational book, but I was struggling to write it. I couldn’t find my voice. During this time, I started to question why it was so hard for me to write it. I think I rewrote that book several times before I realized why I was running away from writing it and completing other projects. I was standing in my own way and I didn’t feel I was worthy of success. I had a breakdown period. It was placed on my spirit that this internal struggle was “The Day My Soul Cried.” The book pretty much found me and wrote itself. That is what the book is about: the internal struggles I faced that were preventing me from moving forward in life, until the day my soul cried.

AOTR: What do you hope readers will take away after they have finished your book?

Yvonne: I think everyone will walk away with something different. I have been through a lot in a small amount of time and I believe that one of the reasons God pulled me through was to be a testimony of hope. Dee, my hope is that readers who are struggling with self-acceptance and self-worth are able to read my story and walk away with a sense of empowerment and inspiration in their journey to never give up on themselves. I hope that they are able to face their circumstances with a new perspective about facing and overcoming adversity.

AOTR: Being that your book is a memoir, was it painful writing it? If so how did you overcome it?

Yvonne: I don’t think I’ve ever shared this publically - during the time I was writing the book, we were financially struggling badly. I kept praying to God and asking Him what He needed me to do and His response was to finish the book. I fought it. But the process of writing this book helped me get through. It reminded me of what all God has already brought me through. To answer the question, no, it wasn’t painful. Yes, I cried and had to walk away several times, not because it was painful, it was tears of joy.

AOTR: Tell us about your journey to publication and the obstacles you faced?
How did you move past them?

Yvonne: Years ago, with my first “attempt” to write a book, I took time to study the publishing industry knowing that I wanted to start my own publishing company. So, as far as publishing that went fine, but the biggest obstacle I had to face with publishing was getting over my fear to do it. I’m sure you could attest to this Dee, but fear is natural; to overcome it is to just go through it despite the fear. Thinking of myself as an author or publishing a book was too much pressure for me. I’m not sure how to explain it, but right now I’m in school working on my MBA and I’m cranking out 3 to 4 reports a week and not finishing is not an option. I had to look at completing this book the same way. I had to look at it as a task or assignment that had to be done.

AOTR: Describe how it felt the first time you saw your book in print.

Yvonne: It felt good, but I guess because I also run the publishing company too and working on all aspects of the business, being an “author” haven’t hit me yet.

AOTR: Please tell us about Have Ya Heard.

Yvonne: As I mentioned, I have two sons and my youngest son, Zyon was diagnosed with Down syndrome after birth. Prior to him reaching school age, I wasn’t involved with any kind of support group. When Zyon was diagnosed we were told mostly what he cannot and will not be able to do. The doctor told us that he will not be a contribution to society and offer us to join a support group. My perception of a support group was a bunch of parents having a pity party and I didn’t want to be a part of that because I did not feel that way about my son. Since then, my perception changed but to make a long story short, when Zyon turned three, I started to seek out support groups to find out what other parents experiences were with public special education. I joined several Yahoo online groups and after reading many of the comments from parents who saw their own children in a negative light, I was heartbroken.
After reading too many heartbreaking stories, I cried for a couple of weeks. I could not believe that parents felt this way about their own children. I went online to research inspirational stories of individuals with Down syndrome and I came across so many powerful stories. I questioned, “Why aren’t these stories being told?” So, in November of 2004 that was the birth of “Have Ya Heard the Abilities of Downs.” I had no idea what I wanted to do but I knew parents needed to hear about these success stories - people with Ds who were college grads, self-advocates, artists, musicians and so on. Since then, I dropped the name to simply “Have Ya Heard” to include all disabilities. HYH online is a community for parents, caregivers and loved ones and it’s an online magazine.

AOTR: What inspires and motivates you to continue to do all that you do?

Yvonne: Dee, as you know, there are so many hurting people. At one point, I had to stop watching the news, answering my phone because it was so overwhelming to the point it kept me up at night. I will continue to produce products such as book, online works and soon film to empower others. Although it is not easy, giving up is not an option because it’s absolutely not about me. I feel the things that God places on my spirit to do, must be done.

AOTR: Do you have a motto? Please share it with us.

Yvonne: My motto is that whether the adversity I face is a test from God or the enemy trying to break me, either way I have to learn, grow and be strengthened by it. I refuse to be defeated.

AOTR: What is the best advice someone gave you?

Yvonne: The best advice I’ve received was to use my fears to my advantage.

AOTR: What words of encouragement would you give to someone who may be going through someE- of the same issues you wrote about in your memoir?

Yvonne: Because of what we go through, sometime we end up hurting ourselves more. I would say to someone who’s been through or going through any form of adversity that you owe it to yourself to forgive, heal and let go. No one or nothing is worth your sanity and peace. In order to move forward you have to let go and reach for yourself. Don’t allow the enemy to win. When we hold on to the pain and hurt, we’re not hurting the other person; we end up standing in our own way.

AOTR: When you are not writing what other things do you enjoy doing?

Yvonne: Aside from school and working on other projects, which I love too… I love spending time with my significant other and my children. And I’m pretty simple, as long as there is either a good movie, laughing, a good conversation, music, dancing, and food, I’m good.

AOTR: What do you want your legacy to be?

Yvonne: Wow, my legacy, hmmm. I will be launching a film production company next year and I would love for my legacy to be that I produce some ground breaking documentaries, film, books and other projects that made a difference.

AOTR: How can readers find out more information on you and your books?

Yvonne: You’ve asked some great questions that I had to ponder on and I would like to thank you Dee for the opportunity. I truly appreciate it. But to answer the question, the best place for readers to find out more information is through my website www.ypierre.com. Thanks Dee!

AOTR: Thank you Yvonne for this powerful interview, and for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with Authors On The Rise. We wish you much success in all your future endeavors!

AOTR: We wish you continued success!

YVONNE'S 10 FAVORITES

Day of the week: Saturday

City: Los Angeles (nice place to visit, but I’ll never live there)

CD: “The Fight of My Life” by Kirk Franklin

Book: “In the Meantime” by Iyanla Vanzant

Ice cream: Butter Pecan (sugar free)

Social networking site: Facebook

Vacation spot: A nice quite hotel room, anywhere

Friend: Steffan, my fiancé, we’ve been through a lot over the past 12 years we’ve been together but through it all our friendship grew and we have both proven that we have each others best interest at heart.

Food: It’s hard to pick one; I would say it’s a tie between Soul and Mexican food.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Nahisha Mccoy

2010-09-08T10:40:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is delighted to bring you an interview with author Nahisha Mccoy. Please pick up a copy of her book and support this talented author.

AOTRen did you know you wanted to be an author?

Nahisha: A couple of years ago, however I used to write short stories and plays when I was in public school.

AOTR:Please share with us about your journey to publication. Was it a hard road? What struggles, if any, did you face?

Nahisha: My journey was a nice one actually. I was an avid reader and I read “No Exit” by Al Saadiq Banks. I was so upset the way that he ended the book, so I wrote him about it. We kept in contact for a while. I told him about the book that I was writing and he offered to read it. He helped me out with fine-tuning it and during the time that he was pushing his books he gave me a shout in one of his interviews. We continued to keep in contact and four years later he told me about a woman that he knew who started her own publishing company. Her name is Crystal “Lace” Winslow. At the time I was reading her book, “Love, Lies, and Loneliness”. He told me that he would make a call to her about me and the rest is History.

AOTR: Why did you write your book, and where did the ideal for this story come from?

Nahisha: I wrote this book because I was going through some rough times in my personal life. I just got out of an eight-year abusive relationship that left me emotionally and financially bankrupt. I had no where to turn, and I couldn’t really talk to anybody about what I was feeling without them giving me their input on how I should feel or what they would do if they were in my shoes. So I started writing, and writing until all of my pain was on paper.

AOTR: Share your writing process. Are you a plotter, or do you write what enters your mind? What aspect of writing do you love? What aspect do you loathe?

Nahisha: I am not a plotter. I am the type of writer that write what I feel will make people say, “Damn, I’ve been there or I am there now.” I love the fact that when I write, there is nothing else there but me, a pen, and my notebook or laptop. I love knowing that when I write, I don’t have to be politically correct. I can be whomever, or whatever I chose to be. I loathe, not being able to write faster.

AOTR: Tell us about the characters in your book and what type of issues they faced.

Nahisha: Naheema, the story’s protagonist, is ready, willing, and able to be at the beck and call for the charismatic Mike but she soon awakens from her love high. Unknowingly playing the game of Russian Roulette, she realizes that her dark knight has become a nightmare. In a series of rapid events, Naheema is forced into situations that are so reprehensible that she doesn’t think she has the strength to emerge with her sanity still intact. The abuse, affairs, lies, and betrayal are enough to push any woman to the brink of losing it all. There are other characters but I’d be giving away the story line if I went any further.

AOTR: Did you struggle to write any of the characters? If so, why? Which character was the easiest to write? Which was the hardest? Did you have a favorite character? Tell us why?

Nahisha: Yes, I struggled with all of them. However, Mike was the hardest because I had to get in the mind of a man who is so charming, evasive, debonair, and cruel. I had to reach into his mind and be him in order to write his character. Seriously, for a whole month, I was walking around my apartment pretending to be this character. Shadina was the easiest to write because she was basically the support. The friend that’s always there when you need them, I wrote her character based off of the type of woman I am. Naheema was another hard character to write. She was me and I was her in another life. I say “was” because Naheema is a woman like many of us women today that have the whole, “I can do bad all by myself” motto, until she meets that one man who makes her say, “to hell with doing bad by myself.” Writing Naheema, means I had to take apart my life and ask myself the hardest question that most abused women can’t answer “Why?” I had to dig deep inside of me to find out why did I stay so long, why did I accept so much knowing that I would lose so much in the end. Why? Which is one of the hardest questions you can ask any woman whose been in a relationship that was horrendous.

My favorite character is Chyna because she’s everything that I’m afraid of. She’s every woman worse nightmare. She’s the one that will have your man giving away all of his assets. She’s the one that will have you calling her in the middle of the night to ask if your man can come home to be with his family. She’s the one that every body loves to hate.

AOTR: Which characters do you think your readers will relate to the most. Why?

Nahisha: I think that my readers will be able to relate to one or all of the characters in some way or another. The females, I believe will relate to Naheema because she is apart of all of us. Naheema is a form of all women that’s ever been in a physically damaging relationship. But the men will relate to Mike or Randy because in some way both of these men are in all men.

AOTR: Were there any important lessons you were trying to convey through your story? If so, please tell us about them.

Nahisha: Yes there are. One lesson that I’ve learned just from living the experience as well as writing about it is, we as women need to really learn to love ourselves before we try to love a man. I say this because I’ve heard women say, “Please, I love myself,” but do they really. To love oneself is more than just wearing the expensive outfits, jewelry, fast cars, and best make-up products. Loving yourself is about accepting the flaws that we have, looking in the mirror without the make-up mask, loving the blotches, the extra love handles, and loving the confidence that you exude. Once you can do all of that, and do it with humility then and only then can you truly love yourself, and give love to another.

AOTR: With so many book on the market, what sets your book apart?

Nahisha: The fact that it’s not glorifying the streets or the street life but it’s showing you that this is life from the woman’s perspective. The woman who has a degree, that has a job, has her own place, but got involved with the wrong man. My book is about every woman at any age that has dealt with this type of relationship.

AOTR: What next? Are you working on another book or any other upcoming projects?

Nahisha: I am working on another book that deals with Domestic Violence but in a fictional sense. We all know and hear about Domestic Violence, but I’m bringing it to your doorstep, to your house, apartment, Condo’s and jobs. I’m bringing it to you in a way that every time you step out your door or hear the neighbors screaming you’re going to know what’s going on. I’m going to hit your homes with a force so hard, you’ll see DV everywhere.

AOTR: Where do you desire to be ten years from now in your writing career?

Nahisha: Ten years from now I want to have at least five best-sellers, as well as open my own Theater house. I want to see my plays up on Broadway.

AOTR: How can readers find out more information about you and your book?

Nahisha: They can go to www.melodramapublishing.com, or www.amazon.com, Barnes & Nobles, Borders, wherever books are sold. You can also hit my inbox on Face book, Twitter.com, myspace.com, Ning.com.

AOTR: Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with us. We wish you much success!

Nahisha's ten favorites:

Piece of clothing- I don’t have a favorite, because I wear what I can afford and what looks nice on me.

Beauty product- Lip glass by Mac

Superhero- Wonder-woman, She-Ra,

Dessert- Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, and Godiva Chocolate

Color- Brown, Tan, Blue, Black, Green

Actor- Bill’s Cosby, Denzel Washington, Nia Long

Restaurant- Shark Bar

Teacher.- Mrs. Washington my fifth and sixth grade teacher. Why? She was very instrumental in my writing. Because of her, I enjoyed writing and reading it to my classmates. Every Friday morning during study time, Mrs. Washington made it her business to have me write, and read a new story that I wrote to my classmates and then we would have discussions about the story. Because of her, I my spelling increased, and I was entered into our spelling bee contest that the school used to have.

Season- Fall

Quote: Don’t determine my worth by what you see on the outside. Determine it by understanding the wisdom and knowledge that was blessed, to me, by the man above, on the inside. I am Nahisha, an author, a poet, and a mother. I am Me.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Beverly Taylor

2010-09-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise Is proud to bring you an interview from the talented author, Beverly Taylor. Enjoy!

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your books.

Beverly: Hello, Dee Dee and thank you for the invitation.
I was brought up in a Christian-family environment and received the baptism of the Holy Spirit at the age of sixteen. I didn’t know Jesus as my personal Lord and Savior until my early thirties. I have two wonderful children and two adorable grandbambinas. I live in metro Atlanta. I am a licensed counselor/therapist and the founder of Chastity House, a residential facility for disadvantaged teen girls. Our goal is that they are positioned and equipped to one day have a successful career, spiritual enrichment, healthy marriage and family relationships.
I’ve authored 7 books: My first novel is entitled Waiting to Exit Hell (a metamorphosis of sort); Woman Take Your Position (a nonfiction); Lust of the Flesh (church fiction); Foolish Virgin (Christian teen novel); It’s Me I See (children’s book); God In Me (children’s Book); Desires of the Heart (Christian/Romance Fiction). I also write under the pseudonym Beverly Rolyat (Taylor spelled backwards). Rolyat novels are “mirror” books written for the carnal minded individuals, as a way for them to see themselves through the characters and as a result, make a change in their lives. Beverly Taylor books are written to encourage the spiritual minded.

AOTR: Did you always want to be a writer?

Beverly: Not really. However, I’ve always been an avid reader from the time I learned to read. My favorite child author was Beverly Cleary.

AOTR: What age did you first begin writing?

Beverly: I was the editor of my high school newspaper.

AOTR: Where did the ideal for your first book come from? What inspired you to complete it?

Beverly: My first book was a mixture of fiction and nonfiction combined, inspired by some personal events. My current release, Desires of the Heart, was inspired by the actions of women at a conference I attended a while back. I spoke at a church’s women’s function which the theme was “Improving Your Image.” The ethnic composition consisted of substantially white female, a few black women and a handful of Latino women. Nearly one-third of the attendees had some sort of cosmetic surgery, whether breast or buttocks enlargements, nose reduction, facelift, Botox, collagen injections, liposuction, gastro bypass, tummy tuck, chin lift, permanent eyebrow stencils, permanent eye-liner stencils, bleached skin, etc. You name it, they had it done. These were Christian women, some were even Evangelists, Ministers, Pastors and Deaconnesses. Some gave their testimonies that they had their appearance enhanced to appease their husbands, some did it for themselves to improve their self-esteem, and some teased and stated they did it to get a man (preferably a young one).

AOTR: Please share your Journey on how you became a published author.

Beverly: I kept a mental journal on events in my life and some I wrote into a diary. As years progressed, I shared some of my stories with family and friends and they thought it would make for a good story. I pumped out a manuscript and was in search for a publisher. I received one acceptance letter and the rest were rejections. I decided to self-publish. As a self-publisher, you become the entire publishing house—the manager of every department—wearing many hats.

AOTR: After you wrote your first book, did you have a hard time moving on to write the next one? Was there pressure to write a better book than the first? If so, how did you handle it?

Beverly: Absolutely. Pressure was there for me to write a sequel to Lust of the Flesh. I didn’t realize that so many people read the book and enjoyed it. I sold several units and I wanted to self-publish the sequel, Lust of the Eyes, but financially and physically, it wasn’t possible. With little effort, I shopped both books around for a publishing house but came out empty. As a result, I shelved Lust of the Eyes until I can find a house or agent for it.

AOTR: Have you ever suffered from writers block? If so, how did you get over it? How do you keep creative juices flowing?

Beverly: I have a love for the written word. As a counselor, writing nonfiction is therapeutic. I’ve never had writer’s block, per se. However, I have been in a position where I struggled with composing a comprehensive chapter.

AOTR: Do you plot out your stories or are they character driven?

Beverly: I write in the Christian fiction genre and my stories are character driven. However, my favorite genre is mystery and suspense. I’d love to sit one day and write a plot for a Christian mystery/suspense novel.

AOTR: Do your books deal with any important social issues?

Beverly: I think so. In my novel, Lust of the Flesh, it dabbled in racial equality and transgender issues. Desires of the Heart deals with self-esteem/personal appearances.

AOTR: Do the stories you write come from your imagination, or do you mix in some of your life with it?

Beverly: Only in my first novel attempt did I combine the effort of fiction and some reality.

AOTR: Name some of your favorite characters from your books and tell us why?

Beverly: In Lust of the Flesh, I enjoyed Paula. She is quite the peacemaker and the glue that holds the family together, along with her dedication to loving God.
In Desires of the Heart, my favorite and probably everyone else is Natalie Harper. Natalie is the wife of a prominent medical doctor. As such, one would think a wife of this statue would possess a meek, quiet and reserve spirit. Not Natalie. She’s one to tell it like it is (with tact and diplomacy, of course). Then there’s Detective Freeman. A man any women would love to love. He’s warm, kind and considerate.
In Foolish Virgin, I enjoyed Kirsten’s character. She is fresh, feisty and fearless.

AOTR: In a few words, tell a reader why they should pick your book next.

Beverly: Carson is suffering with depression; Katharine has insecurity issues. However, the ballet plays an important role in her life — as a means of expression, as a way to console, as a way to mark significant moments; Cindy is dealing with mental illness (which is the root of her promiscuity); and Deanna’s loneliness and craving for a father causes her to commit criminal activities. It is my desire to enlighten, inspire, entertain and educate readers that changing who you are on the outside does not remove who you are on the inside; in addition, to demonstrate how making selfish decisions can personally affect each member of the household in a detrimental way. The questions in the Readers’ Discussion Guide at the end of the story will stimulate discussion for reading groups and provide a deeper understanding of Desires of the Heart for every reader.

AOTR: If one of your books was made into a movie, what actors would you like to play the characters?

Beverly: In my most recent release, Desires of the Heart, I’d love for Angela Bassett to play Katharine; Idris Elba to play Carson; Jenifer Lewis to play Natalie, Lamman Rucker (he is so handsome) to play Detective Freeman, and Gabrielle Union to play Cindy.

AOTR: What upcoming projects are you working on?

Beverly: I’m working on a three-in-one novel entitled “The Sweetest Day Ever.” This novel will consist of three Christian romance stories about that infamous Midwestern holiday, Sweetest Day. It is a holiday primarily celebrated in the states of Ohio, Illinois and Michigan, and to these Midwesterners, it is more sacred than Saint Valentine’s Day itself. This romantic holiday is celebrated on the third Saturday in the month of October. I believe it will be a popular read for all romance genres as it will introduce this special holiday to Southern, Northern, East and West Coast readers who are unfamiliar with the Midwestern October occasion.

AOTR: What is one thing readers would be surprised to find out about you?

Beverly: I’m an NBA fan and an NBA playoffs fanatic. I love the game!

AOTR: If you were not a writer, what would you be?

Beverly: A kindergarten teacher.

AOTR: Where do you hope to be in your writing career five years from now?

Beverly: Screenwriting and hopefully working on my 12th or 13th book, provided I can write one book per year.

AOTR: How can readers find out more information about you and your books?

Beverly: Please visit my website at: www.beverlytaylorbooks.com

AOTR: Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with Authors On The Rise! We wish you much success!
Beverly: Thank you Dee Dee for the interview and much blessings and success in your endeavors.

Beverly's 10 favorites:

Book genre: Mystery/Suspense

Snack: Pistachio Nuts

Pastime: Watching basketball games—on any level

Fruit: Sweet green grapes

Drink: Pepsi and Crystal Light Peach Tea

Author: Novelist, Sandra Brown

Holiday: Thanksgiving and the Fall season

Quote: “Is there anything too hard for God?”
Childhood memory: Roller skating at the neighborhood rink

Television show: I Love Lucy; The Golden Girls.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Tracy L. Darity

2010-08-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an interview from author Tracy L. Darity. Please take the time out to visit her website and order her books. Enjoy!

AOTR: Please give us a brief bio on you the person, and tell us about your book.

Darity: My name is Tracy L. Darity and I was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, where I currently reside. The mother of three, I spent the better part of my adult life raising them up in the way they should go, so I am a late bloomer in terms of fulfilling my dreams. My debut novel He Loves Me He Loves Me Not! was received with great accolades and won me the Living In Color 2009 Best New Author award.

Today I want to present my second work, Love…Like Snow In Florida On A Hot Summer Day, which is a complex novel that gives a raw look into infidelity and how this selfish act destroys, not only marriages but the lives of those involved.

AOTR: How did you come up with the ideal for your book, and how long did it take to complete?

Darity: Infidelity is a hot topic right now and one that is virtually impossible to escape. It is everywhere we turn, co-workers, church members, celebrities, and politicians, are all getting caught in it, so the material was there, I just needed a unique approach to tell the story. From first word to publication it took me a little over a year to write.

AOTR: What are some of the issues your characters faced in your book, and why did you choose for them to face those issues?

Darity: I didn’t want to write a book where the husband wonders, the wife forgives, and the mistress goes off into the abyss, because that is not the reality. Today people are actually leaving their spouses for the other woman or man. I chose to write the story in first person from the perspective of the husband, wife, and mistress, to give the reader insight into what each character is feeling.

AOTR: Looking back, is there anything you would change or add to your story? Why or why not?

Darity: Although the majority of readers have expressed that they loved the book, a few have stated that they were unable to connect with the characters. I feel it would be foolish of me to ignore those readers, so if I changed anything it would be to go back and look at the characters to see what I could do further develop them.

AOTR: Is writing an emotional way for you to write out your feelings or do you just write what you visualize?

Darity: I write what I visualize. I do try to place myself in each characters mind to better express what they are thinking and why they are doing what they are at that particular moment.

AOTR: Which of your characters was the easiest to write? Why? Which of your characters did you struggle to write? Why?

Darity: I think the easiest character to write was LaDamien, the husband. Reason being, wanting what we can’t or shouldn’t have is something many of us can relate to. My struggle came with Kim, the wife, because I had to bring out her insecurities, her desperation, her anguish, and her fears, while showing her as successful business woman, a nurturing mother, a loving wife, yet still in control despite the hell she was going through.

AOTR: What do you enjoy doing besides writing?

Darity: I love watching my daughter pursue their interest, tennis, art, etc. I also am an avid reader.

AOTR: Have you ever suffered from writers block? How did you overcome it?

Darity: Writer’s block is quite common for me. When it gets really bad I write down where I want the story to go and how I plan to get to the next place. This often helps me to write even if it doesn’t get me in full gear story wise.

AOTR: Do you have a motto?

Darity: Life is a journey; not a destination.

AOTR: If you could write a book with any author, who would it be and why?

Darity: Hhmmmm. I don’t think I could put anyone through that because I dance to my own beat, and live by my own clock.

AOTR: What is one thing about you people would be surprised to find out?

Darity: I’m really not as extroverted as they think.

AOTR: Where do you hope to be in your writing career ten years from now?

Darity: Still writing enjoyable books

AOTR: We wish you much success!

Tracy's ten favorite things

Day of the week - The one with blue skies, bright sun, and comfortable temperatures

Restaurant – The Salt Rock Grille – Indian Rocks Bch, FL

Book – Holy Bible

Movie – Imitation of Life

Cereal – Sugar Pops

Song – A Song For You – Donny Hathaway

Season - Spring

Hot drink – Hot Chocolate

Vacation spot - Jamaica

City – New Orleans

Social networking site – www. TracyLDarity.ning.com

Authors On The Rise Interviews Rhonda McKnight

2010-08-03T07:51:00.001-07:00

Authors On The Rise is delighted to bring you an interview with Rhonda McKnight. Please check out her books and Enjoy!

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your books.

McKnight: My name is Rhonda McKnight. I’m the author of two women’s fiction novels, An Inconvenient Friend (Aug 2010) and Secrets and Lies (Dec 2009) and a story in an anthology titled A Woman’s Revenge (June 2010). I own a free-lance writer’s service, Legacy Editing, and I’m also a partner in an independent publishing company, 3 Sisters Books. I have two sons and a goldfish that won’t die no matter how much we neglect him. I’m originally from a small coastal town in New Jersey, but I’ve been living in the Atlanta area for twelve years.

My latest release is An Inconvenient Friend. It’s the story of Samaria Jacobs. Samaria is a man-stealer whose plot to steal her man involves befriending his wife. She works at getting inside information so she can break up their marriage. What she doesn’t expect is to like the wife!

AOTR: Why did you write your book and where did the inspiration come from?

McKnight: This story just fell into my head literally, but once I started plotting I realized I wanted to write a story that showed how very wrong it was for the chicks on the side to insert themselves into marriages and the consequences of their choices for all involved.

AOTR: What do you hope people will take away after finishing your book?

McKnight: The message that God loves us all and we’re always welcome into HIS grace no matter what we’ve done.

AOTR: What important lessons or teaching were you trying to convey?

McKnight: Women need to get back to practicing sisterhood. We are doing some crazy things in the name of getting and/or keeping a man.

AOTR: Does your book deal with any important social issues?

McKnight: My first novel addresses several social issues, but this one doesn’t. However, it does include some issues that I think are very important inside the community of family. It highlights major concerns that have the ability to either make or break a marriage – communication, marital issues of infidelity and fertility. It also has subplots that involve relationships amongst women in the church, drug abuse, as well as familial financial dependency and emotional abuse. It’s chocked full of conflict.

AOTR: In one sentence tell a reader why they should read your book for their next selection.

McKnight: An Inconvenient Friend is a clever story that takes an old plot “cheating husband - messy mistress” and makes it fresh.

AOTR: If you had a chance to have dinner with any author dead or alive, who would it be and what is one question you would ask him or her?

McKnight: The late BeBe Moore Campbell. I’d ask her all about her writing process. How she plotted her stories and developed her characters. What stories did she want to write that she never will?

AOTR: What is the best advice someone gave you, and what advice would you give to someone right now who is going through hardships?

McKnight: The best advice I’ve ever received was from my mother and it was about graduate school. Years ago, I shared with her that I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go to graduate school, because I would probably be almost forty before I finished. She told me that if I lived long enough I would eventually be forty anyway, so I might as well be forty with the degree than without. It was great advice because it meant “It’s never too late to accomplish a goal.” BTW – I was forty when I finished the degree.
I tell people that God wants to see them live out their destiny and purpose. If they make a plan, work their program and don’t give up, they’ll realize their dreams.

AOTR: If you were not an author what career field would you be in?

McKnight: Ha, ha, ha! If I weren’t a training and policy specialist for a federal food assistance program I’d be a full-time author. Now, if I could do anything else other than write – I think I’d be marriage and family therapist.

AOTR: What do you pray your legacy will be?

McKnight: That I wrote great books that touched the heart of women.

AOTR: We wish you much success!

Rhonda's 10 favorite things

Day of the week: Friday and Thank God for it!

Holiday: Christmas for sure. Love bearing and sharing gifts with my family.

Food: Carrot Cake.

CD: Alone In His Presence by Cee Cee Winans

Town or city: Destin, Florida

Friend Why: Janice I. She always tells me the truth.

Quote: "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit." Aristotle

Book: Passing By Samaria by Sharon Ewell Foster

Teacher Why: Donna Mitchell – 10th Grade Honors English. She taught me to think about literature, to synthesize story and to explore the motivation behind character actions. Those lessons help me in my writing today.

Hobby: Does being on Facebook count? I’d say playing with my newly natural hair.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Jaree Francis

2010-07-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

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Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an interview from Jaree Francis. He is the author of Metra City: Destiny’s Kiss. Enjoy!

AOTR:Please tell us about yourself and your debut novel?

Jaree: I am Jaree Francis and my debut novel is Metra City: Destiny's Kiss. It may sound somewhat romantic...It's actually the tale of four young men who are drifting in different directions as they embark on their individual destinies. There's love dipped in acid, hidden truths revealed, pain & pleasure playing nice together, and a grand set-up for much more to come.

AOTR: Where did the ideal for this book come from?

Jaree: Long ago, it was already written for me to write such a story. I read Donald Goines work and I was fascinated. If I ever meet him on another level, I'll tell him that he made it easier for me to fulfill a dream by writing my own novel. The idea was birthed from a desire to tell a story that showed the light and the darkness; black and white photos are some of the best photos you can have. And this is what I present to you, the reader.

AOTR: What was the writing process like? Did you have to outline or did the characters just come to you?

Jaree: The writing process was trying...Initially. Even though it was in my DNA to put it together it became a matter of how. Do I kill the reader softly or is the book a firestorm from the introduction? The outline can be a guide and I realized that so I turned off the GPS. I let the story flow; an unrehearsed speech on life, death, love, prosperity, and poverty. As far as the characters, they always come to me...Always waiting for further instruction.

AOTR: What makes your book different?

Jaree: Running along the same vein as a lot of other urban novels, the characters drive the story. The discerning factor is the uniqueness of the characters I have presented. Nimrod is an atheist, no shame about it at all. I present a femme fatale by the name of Tara who's quite a piece of work; the female characters stand out. The male leads are interesting folks as well and there's quite a bit of unconventional minds at work so the story plays along with extreme unpredictability. My novel has terms never heard before until now. I keep it rather fresh so you can inhale the literature at your own pleasure.

AOTR: Does your book deal with any important social issues?

Jaree:: You can bet that; gang life is widely discussed within the novel, drug abuse, sexual abuse, and homosexuality. Domestic violence is briefly mentioned as well. Part of the problem with the world is that so many things are considered taboo to mention. The uninformed mind can be a rather dangerous thing.

AOTR: Why should a reader pick your book next?

Jaree: My book is an excellent introduction to me as a writer. The average person may figure that they don't need to get familiar with me. Who is Jaree Francis? He doesn't ring any bells and I'm busy with my books anyway. Regardless of how anyone feels, the fact is that I'm putting something together. I'm constructing a world of fresh characters, fluid dialogue, unique scenarios, and it all starts with Metra City: Destiny's Kiss. This is only the beginning. I always say it's more comfortable riding shotgun than on the bandwagon.

AOTR: What aspects of your own life are woven into your book?

Jaree: My passion for lyrics & poetry is expressed. Other than that, I really took a seat in the director's chair with the novel. I digress from interweaving myself into stories because it gives rise to bias.

AOTR: Besides writing, what else do you like to do?

Jaree: I could get in trouble answering that ;)

AOTR: If you were not an author, what would be your dream career?

Jaree: Good question. I'm looking towards a career in the film industry. I will provide more details as they become available.

AOTR: What do you hope to accomplish in the literary world?

Jaree: As I evolve as a writer, my answer will most likely evolve as well. At the moment, I want people to realize that urban fiction isn't a garbage genre. There will always be sub-par stories being told in any form of literature, that doesn't mean all of them are. Although this should be common knowledge, it seems that it needs to be reinforced. With any genre, you have to be selective in what you read. Sampling it, determining by the synopsis if you want to carry on. I am a part of a movement to redefine urban fiction/street lit.

AOTR: How can readers contact you?

Jaree:mcexclusive3@yahoo.com + mcx2011.blogspot.com

AOTR: We wish you much success!

Jaree’s 10 favorite things

Fried food: Okra looks good on the menu

Soda: A & W Root Bear. Throw some ice cream in it if you got any.

Sports: Basketball/Football/occasionally baseball....And good ol' UFC

Quote: “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” How enchanting is that?

Teacher: Abdul Shakur is a light bearer

Shoe: Nike has an exceptional selection

Color: Black

Authors On The Rise Interviews Ja'Nese Dixon

2010-07-28T04:43:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise Is pleased to bring you an interview by talented author Ja’Nese Dixon. She is the author of Black Diamond. Enjoy!

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and your books.

Dixon: “I am a mother and wife. I started writing poetry in elementary school and it morphed into writing short stories. Later in life, I used my newly found love of Flash Fiction to reignite my love for writing. Now, a couple of years later, I’m the proud author of my first novel, “Black Diamond”.
“Black Diamond” is about Camille Blackwell, an undercover FBI agent, planted in a distribution company suspected of trafficking conflict diamonds.

AOTR: Why did you write your book and what was the inspiration that made you complete it?

Dixon: I wrote the book as a participant in NANOWRIMO. My kids and I decided to compete and after 30 days I had the first draft of “Black Diamond”.
The story inspired me to work and re-work my manuscript. The first draft was hard, but dedicating the time to finish my story took a lot of time.

AOTR: Are there any important social issues your characters faced or discussed in your book?

Dixon: Yes, my story shares some of the woes of conflict diamond trafficking.

AOTR: Who was your favorite character in your book and why?

Dixon: That’s like asking if I have a favorite child. (smile) However, if I had to select one it would be Talib Kamwi. He’s my villain, but his internal struggles and rough edge made him easy to write. I enjoyed it.

AOTR: What do you hope a reader will take away after closing your book?

Dixon: My hope is that readers will close the book knowing more about the plight of people affected by conflict diamonds and how our personal choices can adversely involve people around us.

AOTR: With so many books in the market, what sets your book apart?

Dixon: The lessons hidden between the covers. I did extensive research over international rebel groups, conflict diamonds, the diamond industry in South Africa and international legislation. But in the end, my book is about the characters and their attempts to live with their choices.

AOTR: What projects are you working on now?

Dixon: I am working on “Intoxicated”. It’s a sexy tale about love in the limelight--love bore out of being flawed.
The plot is lighter than “Black Diamond” because nothing is sexier than R&B music. (smile) It introduces readers to Marques, a R&B singer and the first story in my Star Status series.

Aaron “Marques” Carter, known to his adoring fans as Marques, is an acclaimed R&B singer and songwriter determined to reach icon status in the music industry without the interference of love.

Brione Alexander, a beautiful headstrong law student, is a pro at keeping men at a distance. “Once bitten, twice shy” should be her motto. Time has shown her that men cannot be trusted!

A chance meeting between the R&B sensation and the relationship phobic sets in motion an electrifying union that can rescue both Aaron and Brione from themselves.

AOTR: What keeps you typing and creating books? Is there a person, place, or thing that inspires you to do what you do?

Dixon: Characters keep me typing. For instance, “Black Diamond” first came to me in a dream. I’m inspired by reading and books. I can clearly remember key points in my life and reading has always been an instrumental part of my life.

AOTR: Finish this sentence. Twenty years from now I hope to have accomplished.... in my writing career.

Dixon: having my stories as a part of a college curriculum and on the big screen.

AOTR: How can readers contact you?

Dixon: My website: http://www.janesedixon.com/
My email: info (at) janesedixon (dot) com
My book page on Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorjanesedixon
My Twitter address: www.twitter.com/janesedixon

AOTR: We wish you success!

Ja'Nese's ten favorite things:

Fruit – Gala apples

Season - Fall

Restaurant – Gringos Mexican Restaurant

Actor – I’m loving the Smith family. (I’m sorry for cheating.) Black love and strong, talented children. I love it.

Food – Pizza

Author – Beverly Jenkins

Movie – “Pretty Woman” and “Legally Blond” (I can’t name one…)

Social networking site – Facebook (urgh…addictive)

Accessory – sexy shoes

Time of day – About 2 am…I’m a vampire

Authors On The Rise Interviews Poet Aberjhani

2010-06-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an interview from Author-Poet Aberjhani. Enjoy!

AOTR: Please tell us about yourself and the books you have written.

Aberjhani: I’m a fiction writer, historian, journalist, creative nonfiction writer, and poet, so my eight published books tend to reflect these different genres. I was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, during the last century, birthday July 8, but have lived many places in the United States and outside the continental U.S.

AOTR: Which of your books is your favorite? Why?

Aberjhani: For me to choose a favorite book written by me is about as difficult, or even impossible, as for a parent to choose a favorite offspring. They’ve all provided reasons for celebration and gratitude, but my youngest, as in newest, is “The River of Winged Dreams” and I am amazed by this book for many reasons. It developed out of a need to move beyond a very painful stage in my life and I at first was unsure about sharing it with the public, but then I realized it was gifted to me at least as much for readers around the world as for myself. Much of the material came to me like visitations from angels, and just that aspect of the book’s creation is extraordinary in itself. I do talk about that in the book and on various websites. And my intuition about the work being for others as well was apparently correct because various artists have started to use excerpts to accompany their visual creations.

Where my other titles are concerned, I am deeply honored that according to figures posted on the WorldCat Library network, “Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance” (Facts on File) which I wrote with Sandra L. West, is in more libraries throughout the global village than any other encyclopedia on the Harlem Renaissance. That means it will stand as a lasting contribution and we can feel good about helping students all over the world with their homework [big smile here:] on that particular subject. On the other hand, “ELEMENTAL, The Power of Illuminated Love” is a very different and ambitious kind of book that showcases the award-winning art of Luther E. Vann with essays and poetry by me. That book took 17 years to complete and publish and is a modern rarity of its kind because Vann and I are both living creative artists with bona fide ties to the Harlem Renaissance and publishers rarely invest in books of this quality. “The Wisdom of W.E.B. Du Bois” allows me to share a by-line with the great Du Bois so that kind of speaks for itself. “Christmas When Music Almost Killed the World” was my first novel, so I have to respect that fact, and “I Made MY Boy Out of Poetry” was my first book, period, so it’s the oldest of my literary brood and claims its crown as a modern underground classic.

AOTR: What convinced you to write your first book and where did the inspiration come from?

Aberjhani: That would be “I Made My Boy Out of Poetry” as just noted. It developed out of a very active literary scene in Savannah, Georgia, during the 1990s. I was deeply involved with the Savannah Writers Workshop and the Poetry Society of Georgia, as well as with a very strong spoken word movement, so I was constantly generating both prose and poetry to present at public events. A lot of the work was inspired by personal tragedies and the very real need to find a way to believe in life and love again. At some point, it simply felt natural and like the right time to put my first book out there. Fortunately, I was blessed for that first edition with cover art by Gustave Blache III, who gave me permission to use his painting, “Portrait of a Young Man/Artist Spirit” which recently sold in a New Orleans art auction for a healthy five figures.

AOTR: What do you hope readers will feel or take away after completing one of your books?

Aberjhani: I hope they will feel like they just enjoyed a small feast for their mind, body, and soul, and that this small feast treated them to flavors they had not known before and perhaps both awakened and satisfied hungers they had not known they had.

AOTR: In a few words tell a reader why they should read one of your books next.

Aberjhani: Because it will likely take you into regions of rich emotional experience, intellectual stimulation, and psychospiritual adventures you will find exciting to discover, indulge, and revisit.

AOTR: Are you currently working on any books now?

Aberjhani: Interestingly enough, I’m currently working as part of an editorial team for a series of books on the Civil War and urban slavery in the United States’ Southeast. I’m trying hard to concentrate on nothing but that, but work as an editor has a way of sparking ideas so I am also working on the second edition of “The American Poet Who Went Home Again” and on a play about the tragicomic ups and downs of our contemporary times. But aside from books, I’ve been pretty busy this past year with my African-American Art Examiner column at http://www.examiner.com/x-16968-AfricanA...

AOTR: When you are not writing what do you like to do?

Aberjhani: Watch films, listen to music, go to museums or art galleries, spend more money on books than my budget allows, and visit friends or family.

AOTR: Name three words to describe you.

Aberjhani: Creative, Blessed, Grateful.

AOTR: Do you have a motto?

Aberjhani: That would be this: “When stuck between rocks and hard places, use the pain of the pressure to create diamonds.” But I’ve also actually lived, and have the life scars to prove it, a great deal of my life based on the biblical first book of Corinthians, chapter thirteen.

AOTR: What do you hope to accomplish in the literary world?

Aberjhani: I hope to create worthwhile literary legacies that provide moments of relief, entertainment, or empowerment within a given individual’s life.

AOTR: How can readers find out more about you or order your books?

Aberjhani: By visiting my Authors Guild website at http://www.aberjhani.com or my author page on Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Aberjhani/e/B001KH...
They can also check me out at the Red Room Hall of Fame, which includes writers like Maya Angelou, Terry McMillan, Ishmael Reed, and President Barack Obama as well. And of course I can’t leave out Goodreads, Creative Thinkers International, Twitter, AuthorsDen, LibraryThing, Shelfari, MySpace and…

AOTR: Thanks for you time! Continued Success!

Aberjhani's 10 favorite things

Book:“Beloved” by Toni Morrison and “Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafon.

Social networking site: Creative Thinkers International.

Dessert:Strawberry shortcake or peach cobbler.

Past time:Falling more deeply in love with life every day.

Poet:Jay Wright, Nikki Giovanni, Rumi.

Sports:Dancing.

Color:Gold and/or blue-violet.

Season:Autumn.

City or town: Anyplace where I can sense that people at least attempt to live love.

Drink: I am such a coffee addict. Became one while stationed with the Air Force in Alaska.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Author Push Nevahda

2010-06-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an interview from author Push Nevahda. Enjoy!

AOTR: Briefly tell us about you and your book.

PN: My name is Jeremy Williams, and I also write under the pen name, Push Nevahda. I’m 41, and a native of Detroit Michigan. I am a graduate of Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI, and I’m currently finishing up a master’s degree in African American history. My new book is titled Detroit: The Black Bottom Community. It is currently available in all major retail outlets. My parents migrated from the south and eventually settled in Detroit’s Black Bottom community. My father and my mother went on their first date to Black Bottom’s famous Flame Bar to see Billie Holiday perform.

AOTR: When did you first begin writing and why?

PN: I think writers are born. I think that people can learn technical writing such as journalism. But writers are born.

AOTR: Describe how it felt seeing your name in print for the first time.

PN: While I don’t believe that a writer needs to be published in order to be considered a writer, I certainly felt a sense of confidence and achievement seeing my book on the shelf of Barnes & Noble.

AOTR: With so many books in print, what sets your book apart?

PN: Black Bottom had never been studied as an exclusive study. Also, my book is a photo-essay which illuminates the perspective and brings the reader into the visual experience.

AOTR: Have you faced any obstacles as an author? If so please share one lesson you've learned.

PN: The only serious obstacle that any author would face is one of leisure and time to write. Certainly I’ve encounter those matters, but I’ve since learned to sacrifice everything else for sake of time and leisure.

AOTR: How do you handle writers block or does writing flow naturally for you?

PN: Writers block means it’s time to put down the pen and pick up a book. That’s what I do.

AOTR: Finish this sentence. If I were not an author I would be...

PN:…a comedian. Whatever the case, I would be an artist because I was born one.

AOTR: When a reader finishes the last page of your book what do you hope they take away?

PN: I don’t know. I would hope that they would simply have an experience. That’s all any writer can really hope to achieve, or hope to give a reader. I think it’s just as important for the writer to walk away from his/her own book having transformed themselves to another plateau or level in life. After all, writers are writing for themselves as well, if not solely. This is why the best of Emily Dickinson’s work was published posthumously.

AOTR: Where do you hope to be ten years from now in your writing career?

PN: It would be great to be on the bestseller’s list, and/or win a Pulitzer, but none of that is necessary for me to feel any better or worse about the craft of writing. So, I would be content to just still be able to write, teach, and have the same passion for literature that I have now. Writing, for me, is the same as breathing, for you.

AOTR: How can readers contact you or find out more information about your book?

PN: www.pushnevahda.com / 313 929-9022

AOTR: Thanks for your time. Much Success!

Nevahda's ten favorite things:

Drink: water

Cookie: chocolate chip

Quote: “You have asked me what I would do and what I would not do. I will tell you what I will do and what I will not do. I will not serve that in which I no longer believe, whether it call itself my home, my fatherland, or my church: and I will try to express myself in some mode of life or art as freely as I can and as wholly as I can, using my defence the only arms I allow myself to use - silence, exile, and cunning.” –James Joyce

Site on the internet: Facebook

Shopping Center: Camelback in Scottsdale AZ; Tanger in Howell MI

Movie: Raisin in the Sun

Snack: sunflower seeds

Restaurant: Motown Grille, Detroit MI

Shoe: Hippopotamus boots

Sports: none

Authors On The Rise Interviews Author Dangerous Lee

2010-05-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an Interview with Dangerous Lee.
Dangerous Lee is the author of Keep Your Panties Up And Your Skirt Down.

Dee Dee: Give the readers a brief bio on you the person and your book.

Dangerous Lee: Dangerous Lee is a certified Community Health Advocate and HIV Testing Counselor at Wellness AIDS Services, Inc. of Flint, Michigan. She lives in Burton, Michigan with her daughter.
African Americans have the highest HIV infection rates in the United States. African Americans only make up 12% of the population, but almost half of the new HIV cases are African Americans. These numbers are very disproportionate and because HIV is such a taboo subject in the African American community many people are not getting the message.

International AIDS Activist, Hydeia Broadbent, shared her thoughts after reading “The Safe Sex Kit”; “I think it will help more people think about HIV/AIDS and STDs in their sexual relationships and also think about practicing safer sexual activities.”

HIV education and prevention is not only Dangerous Lee’s job, it is also her passion. Keep Your Panties Up and Your Skirt Down combines her passion for HIV prevention with her passion for the written word. Dangerous Lee is also an actress, internet radio personality, painter, and an activist for child sex abuse.

Keep Your Panties Up and Your Skirt Down was released March 15, 2010 and can be purchased at www.pantiesupskirtdown.com

Dee Dee: When did you decide you wanted to be a writer?

DangerousLee: When I was a child.

Dee Dee: How did you come up with the ideal for your book, and what convinced you to write it?

DangerousLee: People, especially Black America needs to be educated on how HIV is and is not spread.

Dee Dee: Does your book have any important themes or lessons you wanted to convey?

DangerousLee: HIV education.

Dee Dee: How did you come up with the title for your book?

DangerousLee: The title is something my grandmother used to say to me all the time. I didn't fully appreciate the advice then, but if you're not going to practice safe sex then you need to, Keep Your Panties Up and Your Skirt Down.

Dee Dee: Was there anything about the book industry that shocked you before or after you released your book? If so, please share.

DangerousLee: I am not shocked, but it is disheartening that there is so much self publishing discrimination.

Dee Dee: What do you hope people will take away after finishing your book?

DangerousLee: They should have a better idea of how to have safer sex.

Dee Dee: Who is the target audience for your book?

DangerousLee: Anyone having unprotected sex.

Dee Dee: Do you have any causes you believe in or fight for?

DangerousLee: HIV Awareness and Child Sexual Abuse.

Dee Dee: What do you like to do when you are not writing?

DangerousLee: I enjoy painting, reading and acting.

Dee Dee: Finish this sentence: From first impression, people may think I'm.... but I'm really...

DangerousLee: mean, silly.

Dee Dee: Where do you see yourself and your writing career in five years?

DangerousLee: I hope I am picked up by a major publishing house, but if not, I'll still be self publishing myself.

Dee Dee: How can readers contact you and find out more about your work?

DangerousLee:www.pantiesupskirtdown.com

DangerousLee's ten favorite things:

Chips - Bar B Q Lays

Chocolate bar - Snicker with almonds

Hot drink - Cocoa

Athlete - None

Reality or talk show - VH-1 Reality

Shopping center - I shop from catalogs and online

CD - Lady GaGa The Fame Monster

Radio station - None

Day of the week - Friday

Jewelry - Hoop earrings

Authors On The Rise Interviews Urenna Sander

2010-05-25T07:27:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is delighted to bring you an interview from author Urenna Sander.
Urenna is the author of, True Season Of Love. She is currently hard at work on her next novel,"But For Those Who Love."

Dee Dee: Please give the readers a brief Bio on you the person and tell us about yourself.

Urenna:I live in Pennsylvania with my family. I am employed as an administrative assistant for a renowned physician. I attended Temple University, majoring in Social Administration. My major should have been English. My writing life began early: love notes, which I never sent, at the tender age of eleven, hidden under the carpet, until discovered by my father, and then poetry writing at the age of twelve. My short story writing began in the late eighties. I have written three books and published one. Currently, I am in the midst of revising my third book, “But for Those Who Love.” “True Season of Love” is my first published book.

Dee Dee: What pushed you to write your book?

Urenna: This book was propelled out of deep, indescribable feelings for another.

Dee Dee: How did you come up with the characters in your book?

Urenna: “True Season of Love” is my second novel. My first unpublished book involved an epic on Olivia and Connie’s cousin, Dr. Djoser Simon, his wife, Eve, and her mother, Karoline. This too is a great love story, but it has to be condensed.

After my first unpublished book, I decided to branch off from Djoser and start a book on his first cousins, Olivia and Connie Moreno.

Dee Dee: Were the characters and writing the story easy for you, or did you have to outline and do research?

Urenna: No, I had no difficulty with Olivia and Connie; writing their story was uncomplicated. The sixties were an exciting time, and a coming-of-age for my two characters. I wanted them to do more than grow up, attend college, get married, buy a house, and have 2.5 kids. I wanted them to have interesting jobs and adventures abroad.

I researched travel, movies, music, clothing designers, clothing styles, etc. When you are writing about a certain era, research is important. It makes the story more credible. Also current events are important. If your character is living abroad or in the States, what annual events take place? What is going on in the world around him/her? The death of Reverend Martin Luther King is mentioned in my novel, as well as that of one of Ptolemy’s countrymen, Greece’s former premier, Georges Papandreou. I also added discussions at a dinner party concerning student riots in France, as well as unrest in the States. I believe in researching, and since I’m a history buff, I enjoy this part of writing.

Unfortunately, I am considered a seat of your pants writer and not organized to do outlines. I have tried to outline and will type short notes. I usually type notes on my lunch hour. I also keep a pen and pad handy on my night table and in my tote bag. Scenes come at weird hours of the day or night. Sometimes, it’s difficult falling asleep when scenes appear.

Dee Dee: How long did it take you to complete your book? Will there be a sequel. If so when do you plan to release it?

Urenna: I began writing “True Season of Love” in March 2007. I completed my first draft in November that year. I had some issues with the publishers, which I won’t discuss. But I will say I haven’t been happy with the results. But I completed my second draft in March 2008. The book was released in April 2009.

In my first draft, I had more pages on Connie than Olivia. I had to remove a lot of storyline with Connie. After all, this is Olivia’s story.

I feel like I am going backwards with storytelling. Connie’s story (“But for Those Who Love”) should have preceded Olivia’s. But Connie incubated from Olivia’s book. Connie’s saga begins during her life in college, in New York. Connie is such a strong character; I had to tell her story. You might say Connie is a prequel. Connie’s book will be released late this year or sometime next year.

Noémi, Olivia’s daughter, might be the next sequel. I’ve written brief notes on her. I would probably write about Ptolemy and Olivia’s adult children in another novel.

Dee Dee: After reading your book, what do you hope the reader will take away?

Urenna: I hope they will have the ability to love unconditionally without regard for ethnicity or religion. Also to forgive; become resolute and release themselves from their past, no matter how horrendous it might have been.

Dee Dee: If you could write a book together with any author, dead or alive, who would it be?

Urenna: Josephine Baker.

Dee Dee: If your book was made into a movie, what actors would you choose for the characters? Why?

Urenna: That is an interesting question. Gabrielle Union, Sanaa Latham, and Jennifer Hudson are my choices for Olivia. I think all three actresses have the depth and emotions to play Olivia. However, I believe Jennifer would be more powerful and define the role more than the other two actresses.

Connie: Ashley Madekwe or Zoë Saldana. Both are good actresses. Ashley’s carefree spirit might be great for Connie, but Zoë might do Connie’s role justice. Connie is aggressive, angry, and can be quite the witch.

Ptolemy: Eric Bana or James Franco. I like both actors. They both have the dark, Mediterranean look to portray Ptolemy.

Al: Morris Chestnut could definitely portray Al.

Eleni: Saffron Burrows has the intensity of emotions to play Eleni.

Dee Dee: Besides writing, what are some of your other talents and hobbies?

Urenna: I paint and do charcoal drawings, but this hobby has definitely taken a backseat. Chess and checkers are great games that I don’t have time for. Yet, I love to read, especially books involving research for my writing. But honestly, I write most of the time.

Dee Dee: What words of wisdom do you have for aspiring authors?

Urenna: Don’t change your story unless you are truly comfortable with the advice given by editors. It’s your baby; you know what’s best. Never abandon what you’ve begun. Write every day, whether it’s a paragraph or a page, keep writing. You are not obligated to complete it, but don’t desert what you love and what gives you pleasure. And do your research.

Dee Dee: What current projects are you working on? Will you be attending any events, book fairs or have any book signings?

Urenna: At this time, I am still working on Connie’s book, “But for Those Who Love.”

Dee Dee: Where can readers find more information on you and your work?

Urenna: My website: http://www.urennasander.com/ and Amazon.com

Urenna's ten favorite things:

Shoes: My comfortable Dansko clogs.

Season: I love the fall. It might sound corny, but there’s something mellow and comfy about the fall season for me.

Poet: Maya Angelou

Flower: Peonies, red or pink

Fruit: Mangoes and golden delicious apples

Day of the week: Wednesday

Friend/why? I first met my best friend when we were 15. When I look back, I laugh at how we competed in high school. She happened to be a better typist with fingers that raced across the keyboard. I was more proficient in shorthand than her. We went through the usual period of angst with teenage crushes and broken hearts. And during our twenties when we discovered true love, we shared our hopes, dreams, disappointment, and sorrow. We have known each other since childhood. She is more like family than a friend. Old friends are the salt of the earth.

Radio station: I seldom listen to the radio. I listen to great music and watch CNN, the History Channels, or PBS. And I love to watch Judge Judy, The Tudors, and Mad Men.

Blog: Tyler Perry

Play: A Raisin in The Sun

Ten Questions With Author U.L Harper

2010-05-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise Is happy to bring you an interview from U.L Harper.
Harper is the author of, The Flesh Stature. His upcoming book, Once Human, Now Food is slated for release soon.

Dee Dee: Please give us a brief synopsis of your novel, The Flesh Statue.

U.L: Tired of watching his ailing grandfather wither away from Alzheimer's, 19 year old Langley Jackson moves from his middle class home and subsequently struggles to survive in downtown Long Beach. Here he finds himself part of a social movement bent on destruction and retribution. Through all of this, Langley must decide on trying to subsist in a complicated and unlawful new world of graffiti and poetry or endure in a disheartening old one outlined by the death of his mother and his sick grandfather.

Dee Dee: How did you come up with the title of your book?

U.L: The title of the book is based on a particular scene in the story. I know a lot of people don't like spoilers but here goes one for you anyway. A flesh statue is what the main character thinks his grandfather looks like when he finds him dead. It might sound sad because it kind of is. I focused on emotional content in this story, to a certain degree. I'm sure a lot of what I would say about this is a better answer for another question.

Dee Dee: Why was it imperative for you to write this novel? Did you have a message you wanted to convey?

U.L: There is a message in the story. However, I didn't write it to convey a message. I simply have my influences, inspirations. I wouldn't call the story imperative, though I would definitely say that when I wrote it no other story was going to be told by me at that time, not by me. There is person revolution going on in the novel that mirrored some things in my life. So I guess in a way I let go a bit, through The Flesh Statue. Imperative? I'll have to think about that one.

Dee Dee: With so many books/authors, what makes your book stand apart? How is your book different?

U.L: I could have a list for this one. Whereas I don't think there is anything so definitely unique about The Flesh Statue, I will say that there are some things that won't happen in any other book you read. For instance, the small town of San Pedro goes to the revolution for a week...and advertises for it on billboards. My good friend and main character Bert decides to stimulate his auto body repair business by destroying cars himself. Business gets so good that he hires someone to help him destroy vehicles. There are these type of things. That and the chapter titles. I loved coming up with the chapter titles.

Dee Dee: In one sentence, tell an avid reader why they should choose your book for their next selection.

U.L: This story is fun, absurd and an emotional and mental challenge. Don't miss out. Sorry. Two sentences.

Dee Dee: Describe how it felt to see your book in print for the first time.

U.L: At first when I first saw it I was amazed. I looked at all the words and the length and I smelled it... I was like, look at how all these words make sense together. Wow! I really couldn't believe it was done. Years of hard work. It came in the mail so I got to open that cool little box. Freakin wonderful. Can't actually articulate it properly. Not even really going to try.

Dee Dee: What has been the hardest obstacle you've faced regarding your book: writing the book, editing, promoting or other?

U.L: Editing was pretty tough and I still don't think I'm completely happy with it. Writing it was difficult and I do consider editing part of writing, so there's that. With that said, I think promoting has been the hardest because you can do a lot and do it the right way and still not be read. Too me it's not about making money. It's more about getting read and moving ideas along. But getting people to read your book is always a work in progress. Eventually you want someone to read it who hasn't seen you at a reading or read something from you at some point. You want it to snowball to a word of mouth thing. A challenge to say the least. Daunting is a word I might use to describe it. Does it matter how good your book is if nobody reads it? Just asking.

Dee Dee: Besides writing, what else does U.L like to do in his free time?

U.L: Of course I like reading. I watch plenty of movies. I don't do too much but I've been getting back in to sports. I'm a Dodgers fan.

Dee Dee: Where do you hope to be twenty years from now in your writing career?

U.L: I really just want to write books. To tell you honestly, it's all I really want to do. I simply don't care about a lot of other stuff.

Dee Dee: What upcoming projects are you working on?

U.L: Right now I'm working on a project called Once Human, Now Food. It's a character piece told through a few different character's perspectives and has an awkward twist at the end. It should be ready by Summer. We'll see what publishers think about it.

Dee Dee: How can readers contact you and order your book?

U.L: Just email me. ulharper@hotmail.com. The Flesh Statue is available wherever books are sold. It can be purchased off my website as well. Yes, stop by ulharper.com. Some of the poetry from the story is read aloud there. One is read by me, actually. Join the U.L. Harper fan club on facebook. Follow me on twitter, if you like that sort of thing.

U.L's Ten favorite things:

Jeans: Yes

Meat: Yes

Cologne: Nope

Ice Cream: It's all good

Holiday: Nope

Cookie: Oatmeal Raisin

music genre: Jazz or noise rock Nothing on the radio

Place to relax: Home, in bed, on the couch

Sports: Baseball, Basketball

Time of day: About 2 a.m.

Authors On The Rise Interviews Author Roy L. Pickering Jr.

2010-04-28T15:09:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is proud to bring you an interview from author Roy L. Pickering Jr. He is the author of, Feeding The Squirrels and Patches Of Grey. He is also the author of many short stories: Proverbs For The People (Kensington Books), Role Call (Third World Press), The Game: Short Stories About Life (Triple Crown Publications), and Prose to be Read Aloud, volume one.

Dee Dee: When did you write your first book, and how long did it take you to complete?

Roy: My first attempt at a novel was undertaken when I was in high school. I abandoned it after a few chapters but showed enough commitment to convince myself that I had full novels in me some day. This was later proven when I completed Patches of Grey. The first draft took me a couple of years to finish as it was written while I was first a full time college student and then a full time working stiff. I continue to be a student of life with a 9-5 gig. Patches then went through a substantial amount of revising over the course of a year as the literary agent who represented me submitted it and obtained feedback from various publishers. After parting ways with my agent and having grown weary of the pursuit of publication, I put my novel aside for awhile and returned my focus to something I enjoy far more than the query and submission process – writing. Much changed in the world of publishing as I worked on novel # 2. Self publishing rapidly grew as a viable alternative to the traditional route, as did the number of success stories that resulted from it, and what had once been something I held my nose up at transformed into an acceptable option. I knew I would eventually get back into the hunt for an agent and publisher once my second novel was done, but in the meantime rather than letting Patches of Grey collect dust as a manuscript in a drawer, I decided to put things in motion towards the day when people beyond a select few would have the opportunity to read it. Last year I reached the end of my journey, at last holding a printed copy of my first novel in hand. Since then I’ve learned that it wasn’t really the end of a journey, but the beginning.

Dee Dee: Several of your short stories have been published in anthologies. Please tell us about them?

Roy: I’ve written somewhere between 50 and 100 short stories over the past couple decades. They have been published by a wide variety of print and online publications. As you noted, several of them have appeared in anthologies. It is often the case when I find out about an anthology seeking submissions that there is a theme to it. I like to write on a wide variety of topics and in a range of styles. Therefore no matter what the theme is, a story or two of mine frequently fits the bill. The Game: Short Stories About the Life sought gritty, urban stories and they accepted two tales of mine that can be described as such. Prose to Read Aloud is an anthology put together specifically for students who enter competitions. As the title indicates, the stories chosen would potentially be read aloud at such competitions rather than silently to yourself, so I evaluated my body of work with this in mind and submitted a piece that fit the criteria. Most recently one of my short stories appeared in Ménage à 20 which is an anthology of “tales with a hook”, as in a surprise ending. I had plenty of pieces to choose from since one of my earliest short story writing influences was the master of the twist ending – O. Henry. On occasion I will write a new story specifically for an anthology. An example is the one I wrote for Proverbs for the People. Each story in it was to be inspired by an African proverb, so first I selected a proverb and then I wrote a tale with it in mind.

Dee Dee: Which do you enjoy writing more: short stories, novels, or other?

Roy: As a young man I believed that I would probably write novels but not short stories because all of my ideas seemed far too big to fit into short story format. I subsequently learned that I was capable of story ideas of various sizes, with short stories being much easier and taking far less time to write obviously. If I was only allowed to write one or the other I would go with novels, but fortunately I don’t need to make such a choice and enjoy jumping back and forth. I’ve also traveled the middle road and written a novella that is published exclusively in electronic format by SynergEbooks. I’ve yet to jump on the ebook bandwagon as a consumer but I certainly don’t mind if that’s the way someone ends up reading my stuff. Feeding the Squirrels is about 60 pages long and basically was written as a literary experiment. Each chapter of it is a story unto itself, independent of the others but sharing a narrator. It was assembled as a series of short stories appearing in no particular order. In the end I decided to tie up the various loose ends for it to read as a single cohesive story. The experience was a rather interesting hybrid of short story and novel length writing.

Dee Dee: How do you go about creating your characters and plots? Do you start with the character or the plot?

Roy: I’m not sure I can put into words how I go about creating characters and plots. They simply appear in my mind, sometimes when I’m trying to conjure them, other times when I’m not. Then comes the hard part - taking the story from my head and effectively placing it on paper. Character and plot tend to be conceived simultaneously, although it is also fairly common for plot to come first, after which I make decisions about the characters who will be put through its paces. Far less frequently if ever do I have a character in mind first and then try to figure out a storyline to put him or her in.

Dee Dee: What aspects of your own life are woven into your books?

Roy: Many aspects of my life are woven into the stories I write. For example, the setting of Patches of Grey is the Bronx, NY where I happen to have grown up. I'm more of a write what you know kind of author than the kind whose books show off the extensive amount of research I've done. Although I haven’t to date written fictionalized accounts of incidents that happened to me or to someone I know, I’m constantly borrowing elements from my day to day, especially in novel length material where so many details are required to flesh out the various characters. So I'll borrow a physical characteristic here, a personality trait there. I do not write formulaic stories within a genre that don’t have anything in particular to say about the world but are merely trying to entertain within the parameters set by the formula. Nor do I write with intent to hammer readers over the head with a message of personal conviction. The truth lies somewhere in the middle. My goal is always to engage readers with a narrative that has them caring for the characters and wondering what will happen next, choosing favorites, taking sides, becoming involved with the story just as I love to be when I’m absorbed by a great book. The plots of my stories frequently revolve around social issues of importance and interest to me, yet I avoid being preachy. Very little of what I write could be described as light-weight brain candy that doesn’t nudge readers to form opinions or re-evaluate what they thought they believed. I strive to make readers think about things that often roll around in my head, so in that regard there is often an autobiographical element to my writing. But I don’t neatly provide answers as I see them to be. Instead I utilize the plot to pose questions for people to ponder for themselves.

Dee Dee: Do you have a favorite character from one of your books or short stories? Why is that person one of your favorite characters?

Roy: I wouldn’t say that I have a favorite character, except perhaps that whatever I’m currently working on tends to be my favorite story and set of characters at that time. But I suppose a few characters stick for longer than others. One who comes to mind is from a short story entitled Harry. He is a homeless man who has decided he has nothing to live for and no hope for a brighter future, so he intends to commit suicide, only he finds that can’t muster the courage to end his life any more than he can summon the drive to improve it. Another character who has popped into my head now that I’m thinking about it is a teenager from a small town who is treated as an outcast in large part because he is an albino, leading to dire consequences in my story Crosses to Bear. The narcissism of the narrator in Feeding the Squirrels necessitated that I explore this aspect of my own nature to create him, making for an interesting writing experience. The longer I think about this question the more characters will come to mind, and you only asked for one, so I’ll stop here.

Dee Dee: What advice would you give to a struggling author right now?

Roy: Marry well above your station, of course. All kidding aside, I recently wrote a blog entry called Advice for Aspiring Authors - http://lineaday.blogspot.com/2010/04/advice-for-aspiring-authors.html - so pretty much anything I can think to say on the subject can be found there. The final line is: “You want to write…write”. Along with reading (a lot, and plenty of variety rather than sticking to a genre or to a small set of favorite authors), there is no more effective way to improve your craft. And in theory, the better you write the better your chances are of getting a lucrative publishing contract and becoming an overnight literary sensation. Unfortunately it rarely works out quite so neatly. Many authors will learn that arduous writing is the relatively easy part, to be followed by promotion and promotion and promotion. Being a PR person comes more easily to some than others, and some have more money and time to put into it than others, but it’s a necessity in situations where Oprah is not so kind as to recommend your book to her faithful followers.

Dee Dee: What is one thing you wished you knew before you published your first book?

Roy: I wish I knew that I’m not a particularly good editor, especially of my own writing. I needed to weed out a fair amount of errors before going back on press with a corrected reprinting of Patches of Grey. It can be drudgery to seek out those little errors you made that managed to elude Spell Check, but it is part of the process and no segment can be glossed over if your goal is to put out a book you can be proud of.

Dee Dee: How much input do you get from fans and critics? Do they influence your writing?

Roy: Early on as a student and then a fledgling writer I did a fair amount of workshopping with my fiction. From time to time someone would provide a useful tip, but for the most part I’ve always had great confidence in my own voice and tended to overrule suggestions and stick to my guns. I know what I want to say and how I wish to say it. Therefore I don’t overly concern myself with rules and guidelines, because for the most part I don’t see them as having much place in the writing process. I do believe you should be aware of them, if only so when you break them you realize that’s what you’re doing. But there are an infinite number of ways to tell a story and get your points across, and my focus has always been on figuring them out for myself rather than seeking advice on the best way to go about it. Does this sound arrogant? Perhaps it is. In order to bare your soul on paper and then lay it out to be dissected by strangers a certain amount of arrogance is probably required. If you are easily humbled you won’t stay in the writing business for long. If rejection and criticism tears you up, find something else to do with your talents. I may not get much input from readers during the writing process but do love to hear from and interact with those who have read my work. Patches of Grey has received numerous wonderful reviews, not only from reviewers with book blogs but also from bookworms who read it and posted their thoughts on Amazon or at GoodReads.com, or who have sent me emails saying how much they enjoyed it and how thought provoking they found it to be.

Dee Dee: What is your latest book release? Do you have plans for another book or short story?

Roy: I am nearing the end of the first draft of my second novel – Matters of Convenience. An excerpt from it can be found on my blog - http://lineaday.blogspot.com/2009/04/brief-excerpt-from-first-draft-of-novel.html. If I stick to schedule it should be in final form by year’s end. Sometime between now and then I’ll need to plant the seed for novel # 3. An upcoming project that I’m looking forward to is videotaping a reading from Patches of Grey. I am just about ready for my YouTube close-up. If it goes well, in addition to the print and ebook versions that are currently available for purchase perhaps I’ll produce an audio version of Patches as well.

Dee Dee: What do you want your legacy to be?

Roy: That I had something to say and chose not to keep my mouth shut.

Dee Dee: Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk with us. Continue to inspire. Be Blessed!

Roy's ten favorite things:

Restaurant: Olive Tree in Greenwich Village, NYC
Social networking site: Twitter - twitter.com/AuthorofPatches
Season – Summer
Favorite past time: Playing tennis
Elementary school teacher: My fourth grade teacher Mr. Moachio comes to mind. He wasn’t my best teacher. In fact, he was probably the worst and was fired several years after I was in his class. But memorable, that’s for sure, and I’m a big fan of memorable.
Color: I’ll say grey (with the English spelling) since it’s in the title of my novel.
CD: Kind of Blue by Miles Davis
Dessert: Tres leches cake
Favorite place to relax: The beach, preferably in the Caribbean
City or state: “The true New Yorker secretly believes that people living anywhere else have to be, in some sense, kidding.” ~ John Updike

Some links: http://www.RoyPickering.net - my web site http://lineaday.blogspot.com - my blog

http://www.synergebooks.com/ebook_feedingthesquirrels.html - my novella Feeding the Squirrels

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0578005816/ref=nosim/porfessionalp4-20 - print version of Patches of Grey

http://www.amazon.com/Patches-of-Grey-ebook/dp/B0039PU9X6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1267023916&sr=1-1 - Kindle version

Authors On The Rise Interviews Author M.G. Hardie

2010-04-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is happy to bring you an interview with Author M.G. Hardie, who is known for his realness and speaking on taboo topics most won't.
Hardie is regarded as one of the foremost American minds for Real Political Analyst and Social Commentary. Hardie is known as an expert on Race, Pop-Culture, and Hip-Hop. He is a public intellectual, visionary, and student of human nature. He advocates equality, social justice, and personal responsibility. Hardie's debut book,EveryDay Life, was named The Best Kept Literary Secret of 2008 as well as winning a Reader Views Literary award in Humor and a Afr'Am Literary award for Urban Title of the Year 2009.

Dee Dee: When did you first start writing?

M.G: I began writing in high school. I am a poet by nature-something that really comes out in my newest book, It Ain't Just The Size.

Dee Dee: Why did you write your books,Everyday Life and It Ain't Just The Size?

M.G: I wrote EveryDay Life to give real men a voice in the market. I wrote It Ain't Just The Size because I was tired of hearing that blacks don't read, black literature has little value, men don't have feelings, or that black women are hated. I had enough of the one sided discussions between men and women. So I wrote these books to help people, to bring people together and to bring about a greater understanding. And because my new book is filled with truth, it can be a tool that can help people approach those difficult discussions.

Dee Dee: How do you come up with the ideals for your stories?

M.G: For my new book I spoke to and had discussions with various people and then I interweaved truth into the story. All of my stories and characters are based on things that have occurred in the lives of real people, but as I drive the story the characters confront some really tough issues. The situations discussed in the book actually occurred.

Dee Dee: What sets you apart from other writers/authors?

M.G: I think that all writers are unique. It Ain't Just The Size tackles some very tough questions, questions that no one else will touch. I am trying something new, and bringing something different to the literary table. I packed my new book with all kinds of literary goodness because times are hard, so I decided to give the reader more bang for their buck. When a reader finishes reading It Ain't Just The Size, not only will they be treated to a great love story, but at the same time they will get some great poetry as well, plus they will be compelled to go out and pick up about 20 other books to read.

Dee Dee: What do you want people to take away after finishing your books?

M.G: I want people to feel entertained, empowered, and have a better understanding of themselves and people they may be in a relationship with. To understand that men do not hate women, that men do not want to be single, that men have feelings, that men can and want to love. I want readers to see what happens when men and women finally start being really honest with themselves. And that each of us needs to be our own advocate, we can make a difference, we do matter.

Dee Dee: What words of advice do you have for aspiring authors?

M.G: Write your emotions out and study your craft.

Dee Dee: What advice would you give to authors struggling with rejection?

M.G: Be persistence and continue to strive toward your goal.

Dee Dee: Have you ever suffered from writers block?

Dee Dee: Yes I have.

Dee Dee: How did you get over it?

M.G: Oh, that answer is in the new book and it will surprise you.

Dee Dee: When do you like to write?

M.G: You can always find me with post-its in my pockets, or jotting down lines on the cell phone. You never know when inspiration may strike.

Dee Dee: What aspects of writing do you like and hate the most?

M.G: I love being creative, painting pictures and molding sentences.
But I hate the publishing process. The Cover, the editing, the racialism, and the politics of the business.

Dee Dee: Thanks for taking the time to talk with us. We wish you much success with your books! Be Blessed!

M.G's 10 favorite things:

Color: Brown and Blue

T.V Sitcom: Martin, Seinfeld,

C.D. The Chronic

Food: Anything with Barbecue

Drink: White Russian

Favorite Past-time: Playing Basketball, Poetry, Comedy, Speaking, Activism

Book: The Cartoon History of the World

Clothing: Casual, Sports clothes

Movie: The Lion King

City: San Francisco

Motto: There's no such thing, as too much Truth.

It Ain't Just The Size

ISBN

978-1-59330-647-2

1-59330-647-4

MGHardie.com

http://www.amazon.com/Aint-Just-Size-MG-Hardie/dp/1593306474/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1268848302&sr=1-1

Authors On The Rise Interviews Shalonda "Treasure" Williams

2010-04-03T22:34:00.000-07:00

Authors On The Rise is pleased to bring you an interview with Shalonda “Treasure Williams- a woman of purpose. We are proud to interview her and talk about her mission, upcoming books, and her ten favorite things.

Dee Dee: When did you write your first book? What inspired you to write it?

Shalonda: I began writing a few books, lol. But, the first book to see publication was written in 2007. This was "Love Walk Meditations: Back To The Basics". What inspired me to write this book was My Great Creator. There has always been something on the inside of me that's loved to help uplift others. My conclusion was that God had placed it there since my beginning, so as I watched others touch with words, I felt compelled to do it as well. In my own way and with what God gave me.

Dee Dee: What message do you want people to take away after reading one of your books?

Shalonda: A message of love and hope. The first two books were all about one group of people; the Christian body. However, the more God grows me up the more my heart is touched for the masses of hurting people. I asked to see others the way God does and I was so moved by what I saw when I got my head out of the clouds. People hurt, people need comfort and uplifting. I was born to do that and that's what they should feel when they are done reading one of my books.

Dee Dee: Which of your books is your favorite and why?

Shalonda: Currently, I have a favorite in formatting and I have a favorite in message. "A Heart's Thoughts" is my baby because I put it all together from beginning to end and it was the one I self-published first. I am so proud. I love my approach in it as well and the message it gives. I love "PurposeFull You" because it is the start of who I am as a complete person. A motivator and a lover of people. Now, to be totally honest, I believe that the one that is turning out to be my most favorite is the one that I will release on April 30th entitled "Let's 'GO'. It is a combination of the two. Self published with such a powerful message, filled with care but TRUTH!

Dee Dee: How long does it take you to write a book?

Shalonda: It honestly depends on how focused I am on that particular project. The times vary seeing as I'm never working on one thing at a time. LOL!

Dee Dee: You speak a lot on purpose, do you believe everyone has one?

Shalonda: I do! I do! I do! If I could marry that thought, I would. Why? Because, when a person is helped to understand how vital the "smallest" role is, the better off we all are. When a person is made to see that what they bring to the table is needed, they do their part with a whole lot more excellence. The camera person is just as important as the news anchor. If it weren't for the one doing the taping, who would see the anchor. Yes, everyone is purposed to play their role and do it BIG!!

Dee Dee: Do you think people are born writers or is it something that can be taught?

Shalonda: Both. I have always had a natural ability with writing certain things. However, there are others that have learned the formula for writing and have made great strides. Now, writing something that is so dynamic that it takes the world by storm, takes a little of both.

Dee Dee: Name three people who inspired you/Why?

Shalonda: Tyler Perry and others like him- Because I listened to his story and I admire how a man can spend his savings on a project that flops and then pick his self right back up and keep pushing.
Jesus(Yashua) - After learning more about him, I realize the message that he was purposed to give us. I can recognize what I possess. I can love everyone without bias or judgment, because that's what he did.
My mom(Agnes) - She worked, she gave, but most of all she remained humble. People took who she was as a sign that they could run her over but she stood and remained a woman that didn't let others steal her cheerfulness.

Dee Dee: What inspires you to continue writing?

Shalonda: The fact that there are so many more that need to read what God births out of me. Everything I write will not be for everyone, but those who are feeling it, was meant to read it and it is meant to change their lives.

Dee Dee: Finish this sentence: People would be surprised to find out I am...

Shalonda: Very mushy. LOL! Everyone sees this no nonsense woman. That part of me is real. But, so is the fact that I cry at the drop of a dime. Especially when I'm fighting for a cause.

Dee Dee: Where do you hope to be with your writing ten years from now?

Shalonda: I will have at least ten best sellers. I see myself standing behind the table at one of my seminars and conferences, signing books with a message that is true to each individual. I do that even now. I pray for a message for each individual that will speak volumes to their heart and circumstance.

Dee Dee: Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to speak with us. We wish you much success. Continue to inspire! Be Blessed!

Shalonda's favorite:

Holiday - Christmas

Animal - A cat by the name of Mickey

Plant - Bradford Pear (A tree that changes from flowers to spring leaves to fall leaves. Cool!)

Movie - SO Many. I love a lot (Brown Sugar, Philadelphia, Green Mile, The Notebook, etc.)

Song - "India's Song" "Praise Him In Advance" "Our God is An Awesome God" "I Am Not My Hair"

Actor - Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington & actresses - Angela Basset & Ceciley Tyson

Teacher when you were in school - Mrs. Morgan from 6th grade

Spiritual quote - "No weapon formed against thee shall prosper"

Dessert - Hot Dutch Apple Pie and Vanilla Ice Cream

Car - JEEP Commander

Bio: Author, Life Coach & Motivational Speaker, Shalonda "Treasure" Williams, was born in Savannah, GA in 1981. Now the privileged mother of four, she comes from a line up of eleven siblings. As the youngest, Shalonda has decided to break out and live with a cap of purpose that is to help lift other to the 'GO' position. That is the position of Get Over to Get On with life. Shalonda is the author of three published works. Including two in her Love Walk Meditations Series and the starter to her Love Walk Motivation Series. In her upcoming books, this author will journey with those that need her slight nudging into knowing just how purposed and powerful they are. Shalonda is the Founder and Owner of Love Walk Motivation Services where her mission is to uplift and motivate through the power of love and compassion.

Links: http://lovewalkmotivationservices.com
http://lovewalkauthorssupport.spruz.com
http://shalondatreasurewilliams.webs.com
http://www.amazon.com/Shalonda-Treasure-Williams/e/B002PJ0DOC

Other Info: If you have ever desired to be a motivator or a writer or even if you are seasoned, please feel free to enter the Motivating Yourself In Just 21 Days Contest. Get the details at http://shalondatreasurewilliams.webs.com/contestrules.htm

Feel Free To Listen To Shalonda on Motivation For Today Blogtalk Radio. Visit http://blogtalkradio.com/motivationfortoday for show times and dates. Listen to the upcoming shows for your chance to be entered to win an autographed copy of "Let's 'GO': Get Over to Get On With Life".

P.S. Want a Free Think and Grow Rich Book?
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http://www.FreeTGRbook.com/lovewalkmotivation

Please Visit Me and Grab A Copy Of My Books http://www.amazon.com/Shalonda-Treasure-Williams/e/B002PJ0DOC/. Today I motivate you to find purpose in You!

10 Questions With Author Nadia Janice Brown, author of Unscrambled Eggs

2010-02-26T11:18:00.000-08:00

Ten Questions With Nadia Brown, author of Unscrambled Eggs.

Dee Dee: Hello Nadia, you are certainly an author who Inspires. We are honored to interview you. Please tell us who inspires you?

Nadia: There are many people who I'm inspired by. I get inspiration from pioneers, from anyone who knows their purpose and have been successful in accomplishing his or her God-given dream and destiny. This includes people of faith, entrepreneurs, professional athletes, authors, my family, etc.

Dee Dee: What do you enjoy doing when you are not writing?

Nadia: In my spare time, I enjoy jogging and taking long walks in the evenings. When I'm not writing, I also love reading inspirational books or a good romance novel, listening to music, going to the movies, as well as working with authors.

Dee Dee: Do you have a motto?

Nadia: I've adopted my church’s motto, which is, “We're gonna win!”

Dee Dee: What are your pet peeves?

Nadia: My pet peeves would have to be: people who play God and can easily, without any type of regard, take another human being’s life (or any type of abuse of another individual). I also do not appreciate when someone habitually renege on his or her promises.

Dee Dee: If you had a chance to have a dinner date with anyone-dead or alive- who would it be? Why?

Nadia: If I had a chance to have a dinner date with anyone it would be with Jesus. I want to be like Him; I want to have His character; so it only makes sense to have the only person who has ever been perfect as my dinner date. There are so many things that I would want to know, and want to ask Him.

Dee Dee: What is one word that describes you?

Nadia: Dreamer.

Dee Dee: What is the best advice someone gave you?

Nadia: The best advice someone told me was that my financial success or lack thereof, did not determine whether or not my book added value to the life of readers. This advice was given to me when I was a new author.

Dee Dee: Answer this question: If I were not a writer I would be...
Nadia: Human resource director for a business, an organization, or agency. I like helping people; and I can see myself going in that line of work.

Dee Dee: What would you tell a person right now who wants to give up?

Nadia: I would tell a person who wants to give up to pray. I believe in the power of prayer and that in everything you should pray—that includes your business, career, and your writing. Pray over whatever you do. I've always done this, and it is something I continue to do. I also think you have to be a person of excellence in what you do. You may want to take a class to improve your writing skills, read more books, and write more. It is important for writers/authors to produce quality work.

Dee Dee: What do you want your legacy to be?

Nadia: I want to be the bearer of good fruit. I want my legacy to be that of someone who has helped (served) others, who lived selflessly and was a good person. And I want those values passed on to my children and grandchildren.

Dee Dee: Lastly, what is next for you Nadia? Are you bringing out another book?

Nadia: I'm currently working on my second manuscript, Genesis. You may read sample poems from both Unscrambled Eggs as well as my second manuscript at www.nadiabrown.com. I am also the founder of Author & Book Promotions, which is a book promotion service and promotional resource directory for authors. A&BP promotes literary works by best-selling and new authors wanting greater online book publicity. For more information, please visit Author & Book Promotions’ web site at www.author-promotion.com.

Dee Dee: Thank you for sharing with us, Nadia. We wish you much success in all that you do. Be blessed!

Nadia Janice Brown is an American poet, freelance writer, and author of the award-winning book, Unscrambled Eggs. Her poetry and articles have appeared in national and international magazines, and literary journals. She is also the founder of www.Author-Promotion.com. Visit her web site at www.nadiabrown.com

Nadia’s 10 favorite things:

Color: Black

Time of day: Evening

Clothing: Jeans

T.V sitcom: Medium

Movie: City of Angels

Food: Seafood

City: Atlanta

Cd: Deeper by the Planetshakers

Book: Fight Like A Girl

Poet: Maya Angelou