Author and Playwright Vanessa Richardson

A New Year: 2012, Love Found Me Stage Production

2012-01-11T10:14:00.000-08:00

Love Found Me, The Stage Production!

I looked around and the 2011, year just zoomed past. I hear the on the lips of others, of how that year was quite difficult for them, in fact they were not too sad to see it go. I certainly can understand. It depends on how an individual view things in life, really.

Starting all over again, can be considered a NEW beginning. An adventure if you will. So, here it is a new year, and another opportunity to create/make. To be given the gift of “today,” is a blessing --and should never be taken for granted.

So, what are your goals for 2012? I am not a numerologist, but I do have fun playing around with the significance of numbers. Did a little digging and I come up with some interesting facts about the number 12.

Actor/Model

Tamaro Johnson, starring
as Lance Harrison
in Love Found Me.

The Biblical Meaning of the Number 12:

Twelve is a perfect number, signifying perfection of government, or of governmental perfection. It is found as a multiple in all that has to do with rule. The sun which "rules" the day, and the moon and stars which "govern" the night, do so by their passage through the twelve signs of the Zodiac which completes the great circle of the heavens of 360 (12 x 30) degrees or divisions, and thus govern the year. http://www.biblestudy.org/bibleref/meaning-of-numbers-in-bible/12.html

Cool, right? I thought so. 2012, I just want to encourage you today. Go for your aspirations. Pursue, what God has chosen you to do and NOT what others to do, -- at the end of the day, you will be spiritually happier and physically healthier. Don’t forget to order your tickets to attend our upcoming production, "Love Found Me”, March 17th, 2112 the last performance of the year. Go online at lovefoundmeinspirational.eventbrite.com.

Actor/Singer Donta Robinson,
starring as Eric Miller

We have a talented group of actors who are just phenomenal and are working hard to bring forth one of the best performances of 2012. Be sure to order your tickets online and help us in spreading the word. Thank you so much for the support! Happy New Year.
New Beginning. New YOU!

The ladies of "Love Found Me", the stage production.

After This...

2011-12-28T05:23:00.000-08:00

After the storm, I lingered at the door, not wanting to see the damages it had wrought upon us. It was unbelievable. One minute the sun was shinning, the next minute dark and foreboding clouds had come out of no where. The wind had picked up unexpectedly. The rain had begun to fall in abundance. Sighing, I finally forcing myself to move; I entered the building. I was not prepared for the damages, I was witnessing. Everything was one horrific mess! Water was everywhere, it was overwhelming. I knew that it needed to be cleaned up yet—it ‘seemed’ too much for me. I didn’t know where to begin, the situation felt overwhelming. After the storm; I couldn’t help feeling powerless, helpless, and lost.

I didn’t want to be there. I am not an avoider at all. But, right then I wanted to run somewhere safe and happy. I wanted to go somewhere and just release my feelings for a moment. To scream out the angst I was feeling. Later I thought. Right now it was time to deal with this present issue. I forced myself to walk further into the room, when I really wanted to run the other way. It took brute strength to hold myself together. I could feel the others watching me, awaiting my reaction from the unexpected storm. They’ve already had the opportunity to assess the damage done. It was my turn. My predilection for order was sorely being tested. I absolutely detest when things are out of order.

It was the quiet after the storm. Everything was different--never again will things be the same. Around me there was a movement taking place. God’s people had a mind to work! I looked their faces trying to discern their mind states. I saw a fierce determination. It was in their movements. I was pleasantly surprised and galvanized.

Though progression was taking place, I was becoming restless with the pace things were going. Why do bad things happen to good people? This question immediately popped in my head. I walked further into the room immediately raw emotions flooded me. My Pastor walked past me, as if oblivious to the damages done. She smiled, looking around and said. “It is looking good.” Her words made me speechless. She has a way of always rendering me so. I was immediately humbled. I confess that I couldn’t see past the mess.

My teacher was still smiling. I looked again wanting to see what she was seeing. I needed to look beyond the mess to see the good. Looking past the hurts and disappointments, I was finally able to see it! The good. The storm had bought a people together. The flood had caused a determination that wasn’t there before. The rain removed old layers to reveal a hidden danger. These walls were new. My teacher walked past me. I could hear her words in passing. “Baby, you got to see the vision. Then work it.”

The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year!

2011-12-01T10:06:00.001-08:00

It is the most wonderful time of the year! For some the holiday season can be painful, as some has/had suffered the loss of family, friend, health, and/or jobs. Sending out (((waves))) of encouragements to you. Take the love of friends and family and wear it like a warm blanket. Love is the best medicine!

Truly, it is amazing- what the power of love can do!!When a person loves something or someone, they become passionate enough to step outside the box and pursue their vision (s) *cough* or someone! *smile*.

The love of self, friends, and family; can truly make the world go around. And make our journey smoother. When I wrote the novel and stage production of "Love Found Me." I knew, I wanted to explore the above entities in an unique way. Applying it to paper was the tricky part. The next step was to bring these characters to life, in an believable manner. I want viewers to see themselves or that of someone they knew or know. Sometimes we can be to close to our situations that we just don't see it; for what it is. Thus the stage production of "Love Found Me."

Suffice it to say, that I would need strong actors, to bring our leading characters to life. I immediately thought of Tony Grant, star of Tyler Perry's ,"Why Did I Get Married?" and "A Madea Christmas." There is a redemption scene in the "Love Found Me," production in which Tony Grant performs; that will sends chills down your spine. Tony's vocal range is like no other! But, mainly it is what, I hail as "the anointing." So, for Tony's love interest, I had to have someone strong to Sheila's character and would have a strong repoire, with Tony Grant. Trisha Mann, star of "The Clean Up Woman." would be that woman.

UPCOMING ARTISTS: Rev. Ishie and Sister Ethel. You have not seen anything until you've seen these two in action!!!!! Be on the look out for these two! HILARIOUS!

Thank you so much for all your support, we are looking forward to meeting and greating you. May God bless you!

On December 10th-11th/6:00pm. Order tickets online at http://lovefoundmeproduction.eventbrite.com.

Synopsis:

Mike Montgomery once lived the American dream. Gainfully employed, beautiful home, and a wonderful loving wife. Growing up in a loving family whose faith was unbreakable was his source of strength. Mike's faith would one day be shaken after losing the love of his life in an unexpected tragedy. Mike thought he would never love again until he meets Sheila Lawson. Everything about Sheila made him want to love again. Could he risk his heart again? Sheila Lawson, a woman’s health advocate was strong and independent, yet something was missing in her life. Immersing herself in her work, she vowed off any relationships. Sheila would find her self-made decree shaken when she meets tall, dark, and handsome Mike Montgomery. There is an evil lurking in the shadows. Mike and Sheila will have to unite to overcome evil forces trying to keep them apart. Will their love be enough to see them through the testing of their faith?

Love Found Me actors Tony Grant and Trisha L. Mann

2011-10-22T11:08:00.000-07:00

"Love Found Me" the stage production
coming December 10th-11th|6:00pm est.

We are doing it again. This Christmas we are collecting non-perishable food items, warm clothing, and Toys. We will being giving these items to those who are experiencing economic hardships. Help us in our endeavor to share-- because we care!

Tony Grant: Singer, writer, producer and actor Tony Grant is on a mission and the entertainment industry has taken notice. ....

As the former lead vocalist of the internationally acclaimed, Grammy-nominated group Az Yet (LaFace Records), it was Tony's patented first-tenor voice that dazzled the music world on such hit songs as "Last Night" and "Hard to Say I'm Sorry" following the departure of singer/songwriter Marc Nelson. ....

Tony has either performed or recorded with an array of talented and accomplished artists over the last decade, including Brian McKnight, Dr. Dre, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Shirley Murdock, Dave Hollister, Stevie Wonder and Ham Conick, Jr., just to name a few.....

While singing has always been Tony's first love, he has proven over and over that he is not just a one-dimensional entertainer. He is also an accomplished stage actor. A North Carolina native currently residing in Los Angeles, Tony has had star billing in the hit national inspirational stage play and now DVDs "Tell Hell I Ain't Comin'", Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married" and "Love Ain't Supposed To Hurt." ....

Trisha L. Mann: Chicagoan, Trisha Mann, attended Roosevelt University for Music Education with a scholarship in Voice Performance. While there, Trisha became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and was crowned Miss Black Chicago. She used her title to reach many students through motivational speaking at graduations and assemblies. While being a positive role model, Trisha was a print model in Ebony and Jet magazines for Raveen and Fashion Fair and toured the country doing hair shows, national billboards and commercials for Luster Hair products.

Ms. Mann then lovingly said farewell to the “Windy City” to pursue her career in acting and writing in L.A., California. Within a month, Trisha booked her first t.v. appearance with the late Lou Rawls and sports talk show host Terry Bradshaw. She then explored the world of theater in The Great Women of Color portraying the Civil rights activist Ida B. Wells. The Drama-logue said, “Trisha’s performance was anger-personified”. This theatrical experience led to many more including, The Visit, An Evening of Shakespeare with Charles Dutton where Trisha played opposite Mr. Dutton as his Lady Mac Beth, The NAACP award winning Jeffery’s Plan in which Trisha was the over-bearing boss of Kellita Smith (Bernie Mac show) and then the wife of soulful, crooner Howard Hewett in Say Amen. Ms. Mann starred in an incredibly written Tracie Dean Ponder production, Souled Out. Trisha shared the stage with Stephanie Mills, Malik Yoba and Tommy Ford (Martin Lawrence Show) in her first National tour of David Talbert’s His Woman His Wife. She received noteworthy reviews not only for His Woman His Wife but also for If You Don’t Believe: A love story written by NAACP award winner Michael Ajakwe. Enjoying the role as the big sister to Tatyana Ali (Fresh Prince) Trisha also gained recognition from the NAACP with a nomination for Best Supporting Actress in this musically, delightful production produced by singer extraordinaire Denise Williams.

Order tickets at http://lovefoundmeproduction.eventbrite.com/

Tony Grant starring as Mike Montgomery

2011-09-12T13:49:00.001-07:00

Mark your calendars! The Stage Production of Love Found Me comes to life! December 10th-11th, 2011.Our special guest artists are the sensational Mr. Tony Grant from Tyler Perry's stage productions "Why Did I Get Married?", and The Marriage Counselor."

Join our cast is actress and Model Trisha Mann!!!

Trisha shared the stage with Stephanie Mills, Malik Yoba and Tommy Ford (Martin Lawrence Show) in her first National tour of David Talbert’s His Woman His Wife. She received noteworthy reviews not only for His Woman His Wife but also for If You Don’t Believe: A love story written by NAACP award winner Michael Ajakwe. Enjoying the role as the big sister to Tatyana Ali (Fresh Prince) Trisha also gained recognition from the NAACP with a nomination for Best Supporting Actress in this musically, delightful production produced by singer extraordinaire Denise Williams. Trisha produced one of her very own written and God-inspired plays, Mama’s Will, in which she also made her Directing debut, soon to be a film, and she wrote the lyrics and melody to each song.

You don't want to miss this one showing only performance. Purchase tickets today! Hurry as tickets are going fast!

Tony Grant in "Save Me From My Secrets."

The Unexpexted!

2011-08-10T10:39:00.000-07:00

Suddenly, she was hit hard. The unexpected impact sent her sprawling to her knees. She could hear the sound of the rain pelting against the large window. It was all a strange phenomenon, to her. Dark billowy clouds had gathered hovering and intimidating. It was a remarkable sight. The howling winds were a frightening thing to hear, the ominous sound causing chills to dance over the lone woman's slight frame.

The forcefulness of the blow was numbing. There on her knees, stunned with disbelief, she watched the hands of time move. The clock on the mantle revealed that only minutes had passed. To her the moments seemed an eternity; hurt can make you feel that way. Hurt painful claws were fiercely embedded in her, refusing her release. The pain was enough to cause a normal person to lose their sanity.

A glance around the room revealed nothing had changes. Her bed nicely made up, her mass of pillows was still in order. Her Bible was on the right side of her nightstand. Her slippers were by her armoire. Nothing had changed. Yet, for her everything had changed in a moment's time. She could not breathe. She felt as though she were in a movie; cast in the wrong role. Enough! Deciding that she would no longer play the role of the helpless victim, she raised her chin. It was time for a change, yet she needed answers. What was the right answers? What to do? How could this had happen?

Her kneeled position would be the beginning of her transition. For it was there on her knees, she began to pray. Normally words would fail her, (hurt can do that to a person) today was different. She encompassed with words begging for release and she obliged them with out restriction. With the winds howling ferociously and the rain continuing to fall, still on her knees, her words flowed, as did her tears. It was ugly but necessary. She was in the right position, there on her knees. However, the unction to get lower was strong. You see, some people have to dig a little deeper and stretch a little wider than others do.

Stretching out on her stomach, the words continued to flow. Startled, she looked around the room in question; for a brief moment, she thought she heard the faint call of her name. There in her humbled prayer position, she made a self-conscious decision (and it was a decision) to be free.

Praying not out of defeat but belief, she fought past the pain and called God's name. Time lapsed, how much she may never know, but what she did know is this--prayer works.

She prayed in the storm and God guided her through it. She prayed the necessary prayer of the ugly and God made her feel like new. This was the process: she prayed, believed, and received. Then she got up! Smiling, she dried her eyes assured that everything was going to be all right. As if consenting, in agreement, the rain had suddenly stopped and the wind had calmed. What a phenomenal display of authority! At this, she was reassured; that she is never forgotten nor forsaken. God knows her name and he knows yours, too!

Picture courtesy of WAK

Master of Disguises Author James Benjamin

2011-08-08T05:45:00.001-07:00

About the Author

James Benjamin was born and raised as a Christian in Winston-Salem, NC. While growing up, James succumbed to the street life and was lured by the many faces of the enemy. Through his trials and tribulations, his faith in God ended up saving his life and provided an impactful testimony to share with others in his shoes. James has dedicated his life to spreading God’s word through his unique prospective and hopes to help change others lives as He did for him. He is also enrolled at the University of Phoenix, acquiring his associate’s degree. James Benjamin is also a student at Apostle Fredrick Price Ministry Training School class of 2013.

Visit the author at http://www.masterofdisguises.com OR http://masterofdisguises.wordpress.com

Visit the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/MasterofDisguises

James Benjamin is a living miracle. He was on a path towards destruction, and through his faith in God, was saved. In his first, self-published book titled “Master of Disguises,” James guides readers through his compelling story of struggling in the street life, and finding sanctuary through The Lord. Most importantly, he unveils the enemy, and the many disguises the enemy has. He provides inspiration where many feel hopeless, and educates individuals who are lost as he once was. James lives to tell his story to help keep young men and women off the streets and away from the grips of the enemy.

Benjamin’s story is one that attracts the groups that are hard to communicate to: teens and their parents, prisoners, people living the street life and their families, and the African American street community. Those that are experiencing hardships can easily listen to James as he used to be in their shoes. His prospective is inviting, as he leaves no secrets and lays out his life for the readers. James exposes the many faces of the enemy that he experienced to help the next individual detect and defeat them. As he learned through his own struggles, James finds it essential that Christians be aware of the enemy’s disguises. In his case, it almost cost him his life.

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com

BarnesandNoble.com

BooksaMillion.com

BOOK TRAILER for Master of Disguises

2011-06-15T07:10:00.001-07:00

Love Found Me

By Vanessa Richardson

Hello! Did you get your copies of my inspirational suspense "Love Found Me?" If you have thank you so much! And if you have not, what are you waiting on!

Sheila Lawson, a woman’s health advocate was strong and independent, yet something was missing in her life. Immersing herself in her work, she vowed off any relationships. Sheila would find her self-made decree shaken when she meets tall, dark, and handsome Mike Montgomery. There is an evil lurking in the shadows. Mike and Sheila will have to unite to overcome evil forces trying to keep them apart. Will their love be enough to see them through the testing of their faith?

Book Trailer for Love Found Me

Order your Ebook of "Love Found Me", www.smashwords.com for $4.99! Whoo hoo!
Order discounted copies here by clicking on Paypal link on side-bar.

2011-06-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

Brian L. Thompson, Great Nation Publishing’s President/Owner and author of The Lost Testament, is a licensed educator, and former professional journalist.

He showed an early interest in classical literature and the arts, particularly after his poem, “Black Sunday,” received an honorable mention in Gwynedd-Mercy College’s literary contest for high school students in 1993.

A 1994 North Penn High School graduate, he continued his education at Morehouse College in Atlanta. While there, Thompson wrote for the Maroon Tiger newspaper; moving up the ranks from staff writer, to Sports Editor, and finally to Editor-in Chief.

After earning his Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in English in 1998, he transitioned to a staff writer position at Montgomery Newspapers.

In 2000, his second as a professional journalist, he returned to the field of academics at Temple University, earning a Master’s Degree in secondary education in 2001.

Thompson then turned to education at West Charlotte High and Newton High schools respectively while simultaneously researching and writing his first Christian fiction novel, The Lost Testament – a project self-described as a “faith-based tale with every day characters engaged in a thrilling plot.”

During this time, he also helped edit author Sabra Robinson’s anthology of inspirational stories entitled The Lost Sheep: How I Got (And AM Still Getting) Over the Hump – A Personal Account of God’s Restoration After Doubting His Purpose, the Church, and Human Existence.

About the Book

After 800 years of oppression, the Uché abandon all hope of liberation – until a boy with unbreakable bones emerges from the wilderness. . .

For centuries, Uché seers foretold the birth of a deliverer called Mkombozi – one fated to enter The Revelation Gate and lead them to freedom.

Knowing this, the king of the barbarous Otī does his best to eliminate the lone threat to his dominion. When his best efforts fail, he allies himself with a self-proclaimed emperor who reveals the true natures of The Revelation Gate and the Uché hero.

Meanwhile, as Mkombozi’s mother wavers between feelings of abandonment and crises of faith, her people ready themselves to wage an unwinnable war – minus faith in their deliverer, whose fate ushers him to an uncertain destination.

Merging elements of political intrigue and social class relations together in an allegorical, character-driven plot, The Revelation Gate confronts issues of doubt, star-crossed love, and the power of the individual.

Brain and his family reside in Georgia. Visit Brian at http://www.brianlthompson.co/

Purchase the Book Online at:

http://www.brianlthompson.co/Books.html

For More Information

Visit the author at http://www.greatnationpublishing.com

Visit blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/TheRevelationGate

Life is What You Make It Blog Tour with Carl Mathis

2011-05-18T04:43:00.000-07:00

Christian author, preacher and motivational speaker Carl Mathis began his work for the ministry in 2005 after a life-altering experience. At that time, the death of Mathis’ wife was the reason behind the dramatic turn of events that soon led him to his life’s purpose and calling.

Dealing with the loss of his wife and raising three children as a single father while struggling to make ends meet, Mathis had to contend with unbearable feelings of hopelessness and despair. It was during those moments that Mathis cried out for a strategy to overcome his situation. This experience soon pushed him to channel is grief and use its transforming power to change his own life and others as well.

Immediately after getting back on track, Mathis was moved to act on his burning desire to encourage and motivate people, especially those who have shared the same fate as him. It was then Mathis saw the need to reach out to the distressed and the depressed.

In 2010, he came out with his debut work entitled Life is What You Make It – seven steps to moving forward, a 104 page inspirational book drawn from his own personal life experiences and challenges. Filled with messages on how to deal with sorrow and ultimately survive the process of moving on, the book provides readers with the much-needed encouragement and motivation in order to strive better.

A man after God’s own heart, Mathis continues his passion today of reaching out to people using his God-given abilities, particularly speaking and writing, and becoming a blessing to others in return.

About the Book
Carl Mathis wasn’t prepared for the devastation the loss of his wife would bring to his life. He soon found himself grieving, struggling to make ends meet, and trying to raise his sons, who were also dealing with personal turmoil from the loss of their mother. After months of waiting for someone to rescue him, Carl had to face the inevitable truth–no one was coming. He realized that if he wanted out of the mess his life was becoming, he was going to have to do it himself.

Join new author Carl Mathis in this motivational story about one man’s struggle to put his life back together. Life Is What You Make It will teach you how to overcome any crippling situation you find yourself in and stimulate personal and spiritual growth by accepting the situation, taking responsibility, conditioning your mind, choosing to make right decisions, building a team, believing, and defining the new normal.

Book Trailer

PODCAST 1 - About Life is What You Make It

PODCAST 2 – Carl talks about what he wants readers to learn from Life is What You Make It

Purchase the Book Online at:
Amazon.com
BarnesandNoble.com
BooksaMillion.com

Visit the author at CarlMathis.com
Visit the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/LifeisWhatYouMakeIt

Round Table Discussions

2011-05-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

She moved deftly around her spacious kitchen like a graceful dancer. A small smile gracing her seasoned face. She was preparing tonight’s dinner. Although she lived alone she always cooked healthy servings. She never lacked company. Her children or grandchildren never failed to put in an attendance to her home. Some would stay over for several nights. She didn’t mind this; in fact she utterly adored it. It gave her a sense of purpose. It was rewarding to be able to feed and catch up on current events in the lives of her babies’.

She called them her round table discussions. There is something to be said about healthy food and good conversation; it’s rejuvenates the soul. She loved all her babies including their pet dogs and cats. They were a family. Family and faith was the foundation is stood on. Material things were fleeting.

“Hey Grandma,” The sound of her granddaughters’ voice made her pause. So begins the first round table discussion. She offered up a small prayer of guidance and continued to mead her sourdough home made bread. Behind her she heard her refrigerator door open and closing softly. But remained silence. When you lived as long as she had; you’re able to discern a person’s mood. Right now her grand was in a dour mood.

The octogenarian smiled knowingling; she began humming an old time tune under her breath, all the while kneading her dough. Veronica kissed her grandmother on the cheek. She snagged an apple from the fruit tray; and stood watching her grandmother perform her culinary magic in the kitchen.

“You’re making sourdough bread. Yummy, yummy my favorite.” Grandma looked up and smiled, still humming. Veronica watched her grandmother knead the dough into formation. Grandma made three short thick loaves; turning she placed them in the oven. She moved on to her next assignment of peeling white potatoes. She sat down with a heavy sigh. Veronica could hear the sound of her grandmother's bones popping in the spatial kitchen.

“I have got to lose me some weight. My knees aren’t like they use to be. I use to stand for hours on end with out feeling any type of aches.” Veronica silently seated herself next to her petite grandmother. Her granny was 125 pounds soaking and weight.

“You don’t need to lose any weight, granny. You’re perfect the way you are.” Granny eyed Veronica and smiled. Veronica silently joined her granny in peeling the white potatoes. The two working in comfortable silence. Veronica tilted her head, sighing loudly. Grandma lifted one eye brow but remained silent. It wasn’t long before Veronica finally spoke.

Swallowing hard Veronica raked a hand through her hair in frustration. “Grandma, I have been feeling funny lately. I can not describe how I feel exactly.” She said absently. “I wake up in the morning with this feeling and lie down at night with this feeling.” Her large doe eyes filled with tears. “I feel nasty on the inside.”

Grandma’s heart stilled for several seconds. Veronica’s choice words were forming many scenarios in her mind. Experience taught her to never jump to conclusions. Patience was not born or inherited. It was a disciplined act, one must work at it. So she waited and was soon rewarded for her patience.

Veronica stirred, pushing at the many micro braids. She closed her eyes trying to formulate the words in her heart. Tears began coursing down her cheeks.

“I need help. I can not think straight. It is a chore for me to get up in the morning. Of late I have been asking why I am here. What is the purpose of my existence? I feel nasty on the inside.” Veronica shook her head pointing at her heart.

Grandma continued to hum softly. “Something is out of order, little angel of the field,” Grandma never looked up. She continued peeling the layers off the potatoes.

Veronica rested her forehead on the table. “I know. I feel there is something I should be doing, but I don’t know what. It is as if life is passing me by.” She closed her eyes and swallowed. She felt lost and confused. “Grandma, I am 29 years old. I had--have so many goals and it seems that none of them has come to fruition. The more I try the more, I get knocked down. It is too much.”

“You see human beings are design rather uniquely and if something on the inside is out of order it throws us all off track.” Grandma arrested Veronica’s eyes. “You got to get to root cause of the matter. That requires dealing with our situations.” Grandma paused. “The good and the bad ones,” The potatoes were now peeled. Grandma began to cut them up into small chunks.

“I don’t feel like I am good enough, granny. I want this nasty feeling to go away. It clings to me like a spiders clings to its web. What do I do?”

Veronica leaned in close anxious to hear her granny’s sage advice. Her grandmother flashed a smile at her. “We have layers in our lives that need peeling away. Hurt, rejections fear and doubts make for a nasty recipe. Nasty. There is a root to everything. We need to get to it. The good water it. The bad. Get rid of it.” Veronica averted her eyes some how feeling chastised. She wasn’t ready to deal with her issue. It was too painful. She was tired of the nastiness. She wanted to feel like she belonged. She wanted to live not exist. In her mind she knew her granny was right. It was her heart that was rebelling as she’d been hurt too many times.

“It is a nasty feeling being weighted down by negative things. You know what the sad thing about it is?” Grandma scoffed, hitting the table hard with one hand. “We don’t have to keep that nasty feeling. Baby, happiness is a choice we make. You just have to make hot pursuit. Go after it.” Grandma began to pick up speed as peeled the potatoes. “If you want something bad enough you go after it. No pain no gain. Failure is nasty. Doubt is nasty. Confusion is nasty. All those layers must be peeled away. No one and nothing has the power to make you feel…nasty.” Her grandmother smiled stood up placing the potato chunks into the boiling water.

“I have been making meals for many years now. I know the process each meal goes through. If I deviate from the ingredients, I know the outcome will be different. Creation takes a plan and processing. The process is well worth the end results.” She went to the oven and pulled out the sourdough bread.” The three loaves where perfectly golden brown, the smell aromatic.

“You’re feeling the heat now Veronica. You have the ingredients to be successful. Faith and family. Prepare your master piece. If it is ruined try it again, until it comes out just right.”

Veronica stood up and hugged her granny. “Thank you, grandma. I know what you’re telling me. I am sorry, I can’t stay for dinner I have something-- I need to get started on.” She broke off a huge chunk of sourdough bread, smiling at her granny she turned and left.”

“I have a feeling everything is going to be all right.” Granny started humming again. “Hey, grandma.” The voice sounded weak. She didn’t turn around. It was her grandson Oscar. From the sound of things, he was in a bad way. She smiled offering up a prayer of thanksgiving. It was good to be needed.

Art work is courtesy of WAK

http://www.wak-art.com

2011-04-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

About the Author

Marian L. Thomas graduated Magna Cum Laude, receiving her Bachelor degree in Business Communication. She began her writing debut as a Sports Editor and as a News Editor for a local Atlanta college paper.

It took over twenty-years for Marian to see her first piece of published fiction in Print─Color Me Jazzmyne, in early 2009. Color Me Jazzmyne went on to become a Amazon Best-selling novel for Marian, reaching #1 in the Rhythm & Blue category, #2 in Inner-Child and #7 in Performance/Voice for her character Naya Moná’s, amazing melodious tones that are developed throughout the book.

Color Me Jazzmyne was awarded as one of the “Top 100 Books” for 2010 by the Sankofa Literary Society Review.

While Marian’s books are a work of fiction, they touch on the struggles of women, abuse, relationships and friendships, giving each one a hint of reality that readers are looking for in a good, clean and emotional story.

Visit the author online at http://www.marianlthomas.com/

About the Book

Four people will travel on a journey that will lead to one destination.

How do you find a daughter you never knew you gave birth to? That is the question that Naya must answer as she once again finds herself on a journey filled with betrayal, lies and shocking secrets of her past.
How far would one go for love? That is the question that Chris wastes no time answering. He will do whatever it takes to remove his wife’s pain, even if it means being the one to cause her the most.

Fame and Fortune have been the determining factor for Misty ever since her father passed away. How far will she go, this time to achieve it?

Carl Thompson has found the love of his life, only she doesn’t know it. Green eyes and hazel brown hair fill his dreams for the future. Does he have enough love for the both of them?

Join best-selling author Marian L. Thomas as she takes you through the pages of My Father’s Colors. This book is guaranteed to make you laugh, cry and get caught in the drama-filled story of a woman’s journey to find her voice, again!

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com
BarnesandNoble.com

For More Information

Visit the author online at:
http://www.marianlthomas.com/

View the blog tour schedule at:
http://bit.ly/MyFathersColors

Oprah Winfrey presents The Color Purple (Musical) Actress and Endometriosis Advocate Stephanie St. James

2011-03-11T17:15:00.000-08:00

The Color Purple (Musical) Actress and Endometriosis Advocate Stephanie St.

Currently touring as Squeak in the Broadway production of “Oprah Winfrey Presents: The Color Purple,” Stephanie St. James doesn’t bear a Jewish-sounding name or resemble a traditional-looking Russian. But she is both with roots in Israel and Guyana as well. The granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, St. James fiercely defends the State of Israel and her Jewish upbringing even when it makes for awkward conversation.

Join me for a special edition of The Certain Ones Blog Talk Radio Show Saturday, March 31st|6:00pm est. Click on link of call in live at Call-in Number:(917)932-1607.

What is endometriosis?Endometriosis is the abnormal growth of cells (endometrial cells) similar to those that form the inside of the uterus, but in a location outside of the uterus. Endometrial cells are cells that are shed each month during menstruation. The cells of endometriosis attach themselves to tissue outside the uterus and are called endometriosis implants. These implants are most commonly found on the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes, outer surfaces of the uterus or intestines, and on the surface lining of the pelvic cavity. They can also be found in the vagina, cervix, and bladder, although less commonly than other locations in the pelvis. Rarely, endometriosis implants can occur outside the pelvis, on the liver, in old surgery scars, and even in or around the lung or brain. Endometrial implants, while they can cause problems, are benign (not cancerous).

Who is affected by endometriosis?
Endometriosis affects women in their reproductive years. The exact prevalence of endometriosis is not known, since many women may have the condition and have no symptoms. Endometriosis is estimated to affect over one million women (estimates range from 3% to 18% of women) in the United States. It is one of the leading causes of pelvic pain and reasons for laparoscopic surgery and hysterectomy in this country. Estimates suggest that between 20% to 50% of women being treated for infertility have endometriosis, and up to 80% of women with chronic pelvic pain may be affected.

Listen to internet radio with The Certain Ones on Blog Talk Radio

Endometriosis: Stephanie St. James on iVillage Live

James.HELP STEPHANIE GET 10,000 SIGNATURES FOR ENDOMETRIOSIS AWARENESShttp://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/oprah-please-do-a-show-on-endometriosis/

Endometriosis Support Groups:http://endometriosis.org/support/support-groups/
www.endometriosisassn.org/supportgroups.php

Poetic Elixir For Your Soul!

2011-02-01T06:10:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 5th, 2011|6:00pm on The Certain Ones Blog Talk Show:Poetic Elixir For Your Soul!

Poet and Author Acholam Birago:Truths lie dormant at the core of our character, suppressed by life's daily journey, repressed by fear's false declaration of power. Their dormancy causes our spirit to sleep in the bed of deception with restlessness as a detriment to the heart. Awakened by God through trial and admonition, Acholam Birago travels through the tunnels of the soul unearthing the purpose planted by the Husbandman in the hearts of His people.

Acholam Birago, a name of stability, humility, and victory. A name derived from the lands of Africa, kissed by the Nigerian sun, defined by the tribe of Ibo. A name tagged with a charge to deliver a message to love's vacant territory.
Wisconsin-born, Birago spent the first twelve years of his life in the projects of Milwaukee with his mother and siblings. Chicago became a second home as frequent visits to his grandmother, “Ma” warmed his heart with aged wisdom and meals that could only be cooked by the ol' school. Relocation to his father‟s house gave parental rights to the streets of Los Angeles which instilled its own wisdom into his thirteen year old mind. With the Word as his guide, love as his landscape, and poetry as his vehicle, Birago delivers a message of restoration. His poetry motivates men to move in God, inspires them to proceed in purpose, and empowers them to enrich the lives of others. Inspired by the blossom of character in children, motivated by their struggle under the roofs of conflicted custodians, he strives to restore the love into the hearts of others as God intended. Reaching men and women within their respective roles, Birago pierces the heart, exposing the wounds, so that God may heal.

poeticsoulprovider.blogspot.com

DuEwa Frazier: Her first two names, mean Black Beauty-The One In Whom the Sun Rises in the African, Swahili language. Although raised in St. Louis, Missouri, her life didn't begin there!

Born in Brooklyn, New York on a hot, August morning, to educator/artist/activist parents, in the same year poet and playwright Ntozake Shange launched the acclaimed "For Colored Girls" play- DuEwa seemed destined to take part in the rich tradition of arts and pride from her community and share her creative spirit with others.

Poetry, dramatic performance, dance, playwriting and teaching is a part of the creative world DuEwa lives in. At age 5, this ,'Lady of Words', first stepped on stage, playing activist Rosa Parks in a play called "We Shall Overcome." In grade school DuEwa began keeping journals and writing creatively.

DuEwa took dance training in jazz, modern and African forms as a child and adult. Her most memorable dance performance and training experiences were at: The Katherine Dunham School of Dance, Elegba Folklore Society, Dance St. Louis and as a dancer in high school in Kinesis Dance Company.

Book Description: "Ten Marbles and a Bag to Put Them In: Poems for Children." By DuEwa Frazier.

Ten Marbles is a collection of poems for children. The poems cover themes ranging from love for nature and animals to summertime fun and more! The book features writing and drawing activities, in addition to comprehension questions after selected poems. This collection is perfect for bedtime storytelling, classroom literacy activities, and inspiring children to write creatively.

Other Books: Check the Rhyme and Stardust Tracks on the Road / duewa_frazier@litnoirepublishing.com

Poet Muyiwa Babalola
Muyiwa Babalola was born and raised in Ibadan, Nigeria. He was the President of the Debate Club in High School. He won the best speaker honors during the Jaycees organized school debate competition at the University of Ibadan.

In addition. while he studied law at the University of Ife, he developed a natural interest in public speaking which was well received. To mention a few, he hosted the Tudmont Show, and was the public relations officer of Primus Inter-pares Club at the Faculty of law.

He was also the editors of Rockshock and Pebbles Magazines, where he developed the passion for writing and publishing. He proceeded to the Nigerian Law School at Victoria Island in Lagos, where he obtained his B.L and was called to the Bar as an attorney licensed to practice at the Supreme Court in Nigeria.

Due to convergence of computers and the practice of law, he shifted his focus to Computer science and qualified as a Microsoft certified systems Engineer (M.C.S.E), Cisco certified Network associate (C.C.N.A), Cisco Certified Design Associate (C.C.D.A) and Video Conferencing Engineer and certified instructor.

While working at I.S.S (International Systems Strategies) as a Network Engineer, he facilitated several networking courses as an instructor for organizations, such as A.T & T, Bell south, and Scientific Atlanta. He also participated in the Work force development program at the Albany State University in Georgia in conjunction with the Department of Labor.

His gifting and love of Poetry was developed and encouraged by his Mother Rachel Olabisi Babalola at an early age. She enrolled him in acting classes, piano and art, which culminated in his abiding love for poetry. He has published several poems and uses a concept called "Poeteducation" to act as a teaching aid for several educational projects.

Muyiwa Babalola served as the Youth minister at a local branch of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Atlanta for 6 years and contributed to the growth and development of the Children’s Department. He published several poems in the church bulletin and organized several Vacation Bible Schools for the Kids.

He presently works in the hospitality industry as Director of Parking Operations at the Sheraton Hotel in Downtown Atlanta. He also conducts service excellence training classes at various sites and locations in the United States. He is blissfully married and blessed with children.

http://bablofest.com

Click on link to listen in!
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Author Valerie J. Lewis Coleman | Author of “The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box”.

2011-01-20T04:12:00.000-08:00

V. Richardson: Hello, Valerie! I am delighted to chat with you about your novel “The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box”.

V. Coleman: Hi, Vanessa. And thanks for the opportunity.

V. Richardson: Interesting title! How did the concept and name come about?

V. Coleman: The concept for “The Goody Box” book was twofold. At this phase in my life (about midlife-ish), I have experienced significant changes—relationally, emotionally, physically and mentally. Almost without warning, my marriage was in chaos, my body was transitioning. (My goody box took on a mind and voice of its own. I still say that I could audibly hear her crying out for attention) and my twenty-six-year career as an engineer ended. (People often said, “I’m so sorry that you lost your job.” With my hands on my hips, I said, “I didn’t lose it. I know exactly where it is: Mexico!”)

So about three years ago, I spoke into the atmosphere that I wanted to write a book to help prepare women for this collage of life transitions. My philosophy is best described by Lao Tzu who said, “Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime.” (No sense watching a sister go through the same mess that I went through, if I can do something to prevent it.) The second part of the concept came from my cousin, confidante and co-author, Christopher “Doc” Reid. Every morning, as I tried to walk off the stress, we talked. He counseled, encouraged and enlightened me about marriage dynamics and re-engineering my career. He gave me sound, unbiased advice without a hidden agenda or motive. With his guidance and inside knowledge of men (in case I didn’t mention it, Christopher is a man), he helped—and continues to help—me navigate through the storms of marriage and life in general. One October morning, he said that he had talked to many women who just didn’t understand men.

“We’re quite simple actually,” he said. Yeah, right. Men are the most complicated, confusing—Sorry, I digressed. Anyway, he said that relationships are his passion and he wanted to write a book to help women understand men, avoid broken hearts and maintain some semblance of sanity. Ding! Ding! Ding! We combined our passions to create a solidified purpose: help women understand men to master the forbidden secrets of the goody box.
Sidebar: I assume that you know what I mean by “goody box.” You know, she’s been with me all my life. I never leave home without her. I can put up the pictures, if necessary.
Together, we developed the objectives and scenarios. I did all of the writing and publishing. Doc Reid provided the content that pertained to how and why men do what they do.

Creating the title was as challenging as writing. We tossed around several titles, disagreed, separated to our respective corners, came back for a truce, surveyed friends and fans for feedback and then settled on the one that had the most kick: “The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box”. It speaks volumes to the content of the book and serves as a great marketing tool. The catchy title attracts both men and women. Who doesn’t want to know the forbidden? What person wants to be left out of a great secret? And can you name one person who doesn’t have some connection to the goody box?

From the cradle to the grave, the goody box affects every living soul and comes equipped with an unlimited supply of power. As if the title wasn’t enough, we use the catch phrase “What your father didn’t tell you and your mother didn’t know” to emphasize the magnitude of this well-kept secret.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from your book?

V. Coleman: The overall theme is to empower women to recognize the men who only want to play games and identify the men who are relationship-ready. However, the book is full of so much wit and wisdom that we actually have multiple demographics:
For women,
· Three things that lead you to make terrible relationship decisions
· Every man’s private marriage checklist
· A simple two-letter word that makes him want to pop the question
· How to break a toxic love pattern
· Why he just won’t propose
· Little signs that tell you he’s the one
· Advice from men you’d be crazy not to take
For young ladies (teens and tweens),
· Your beauty shines from the inside and radiates outwardly despite what he says or does
· Love yourself more than you “love” him
· If he really “loves” you, he’ll wait until he marries you
For fathers,
· You are the first protector of your daughter’s goody box
· Learn what makes your daughter feel loved and then fill her heart until it overflows
· What she doesn’t get from you, she’ll spend the rest of her life trying to find in another man, or worse yet, men

V. Richardson: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

V. Coleman: I enjoyed writing this book and watching the characters come alive. Of the three books I’ve written, it’s my favorite by far; however, the readers want more. I have received phone calls, emails, texts and death threats from ladies wanting to know when the second book in “The Goody Series” releases.

V. Richardson: How has “The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box” been received so far?

V. Coleman: The response has been overwhelming. Women have told me that the book is life-changing because they are no longer the wounded doe standing in the crosshairs of the hunter’s bow. Averting the snares and traps is easy because they can spot the hunter and his tactics from a distance. Time out for settling for he’ll-do-because-some-man-is-better-than-no-man. These women are now empowered, in control and finding relational fulfillment.
We anticipated a favorable response, but we didn’t expect colleges, high schools and even elementary schools to contact us to conduct workshops for girls and women. So we’re taking the message to the masses with “Why He Married Her Instead of You”, “Why He Left You for Her” and “Daddy, Look at Me” workshops.

V. Richardson: Who are/were your literary influences? And what books have most influenced your life?

V. Coleman: After the Bible and my own titles (Get ready for a shameless plug… “Blended Families An Anthology” is an Amazon.com Top 100 Bestseller in Stepfamily category, a Black Christian Book Distributors Top 50 Bestselling Nonfiction and the Christian Small Publishers Association’s 2008 Nonfiction of the Year. “Tainted Mirror An Anthology” has inspired readers to stop making excuses and walk in destiny. And of course, “The Goody Box” book), my favorite book is “The Old Man and the Sea” by Ernest Hemingway. The read was a requirement for high-school English. I fell in love with his vivid description of the emerging marlin. I read that passage multiple times. He made me feel like I was in the boat. I also love “The Outsiders” by S. E. Hinton which my sixth-grade teacher read to the class over several months. The plot and characters intrigued me so that I couldn’t wait to get to class. Now that I think about it, after she finished reading the book, I jotted my first notes for a book (I didn’t follow through with it because it was a slight variation of Hinton’s book). I also like the work of Christian-fiction author, Vanessa Miller. I helped her self-publish her first four books—“The Rain Series”—and now she’s an Essence-bestselling author writing for three different publishing houses.
By far, the Bible most influences my life.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

V. Coleman: Specific to “The Goody Box” book, I learned that I’m not in this thing alone. Other women have experienced and are experiencing many of the same challenges and struggles; however, out of shame, embarrassment or pride, we suffer in silence. In addition, I knew that I didn’t have an in-depth understanding of men; however, I discovered that I didn’t know much of anything about men and how they think about women. Regarding publication; I have learned that I am tenacious, resilient, skilled and teachable.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the author’s works. How do/did you handle rejection?

V. Coleman: As a self-published author content with putting in hard work and keeping all the money, I don’t submit proposals to traditional publishing houses. As a result, I don’t get rejection letters. I once had a distributor reject me—well, not me, but my title. Instead of quitting, I used the denial to fuel my fervor. I researched more distributors and now my books are available through Ingram and Baker and Taylor. Readers can go into any bookstore or library and request my titles.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

V. Coleman: I’ve been in the publishing business for almost ten years. As an author and publisher (in addition to my three titles, I have published about fifteen books for other authors through www.QueenVPublishing.net), I travel the nation presenting “Self-Publishing Made Easy Cash Machine” workshops (I love to teach. Remember “teach a man to fish”?) and find that most authors do not have a good understanding of the publishing process or marketing. Although it may have taken years to complete the manuscript, writing is still the easiest part of the process. My advice:
· Research the industry. Attend workshops and conferences. Know the true cost of publishing. Figure out how to price your book to make a profit. Find reputable printers. Study the components of a quality book. Establish your marketing strategy. Interview authors.
· Understand the different types of publishers (many of them prey on unlearned writers like vultures circling a weary desert nomad). They steal your dreams, invade your peace of mind and deplete your bank account. Several of my Queen V Publishing clients have been duped by publishers and came to me to make things right.
· Build a team. You cannot do it alone. Invest in a publicist, attorney, accountant and a sales team of devoted fans, friends and family.
The demands of publishing can be overwhelming especially for a neophyte. Over the years, I have saved clients thousands of dollars, tons of frustration and a plethora of disappointment. They begged me to clone myself, but since I’m not a biological engineer, I did the next best thing. I packed my knowledge and experience into a multi-DVD set to steer writers in the right direction. And if that’s not enough, I coach and publish.

V. Richardson: Are there any upcoming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

V. Coleman: On March 26, 2011, I’m conducting the sixth annual Write On! Workshop in Dayton, Ohio. The event includes sessions on writing, publishing and marketing. On April 30, 2011, we’re hosting the second annual Dayton Book Expo (www.DaytonBookExpo.com). Our inaugural event drew fifty authors and almost 500 book lovers. I have signing and speaking engagements in numerous cities. A complete calendar of events is available at www.PenOfTheWriter.com.

My friend and Queen V Publishing client, Dr. Karen M.R. Townsend, releases her first book: “It All Started When I Stopped Using Lotion – One Woman’s Journey from Chaos to Calm” (www.AboutMySisters.com) As for “The Goody Box” book, we’re developing additional workshops to fulfill the influx of requests. Several churches have contracted with us to conduct a series of workshops geared toward unmarried, youth and now married couples. I finished the e-book last year (2010) and the audio book will be ready later this year (2011). Doc Reid and I have talked about hosting a conference for the women of the Goody Box Club at an exotic location. We’ll be in negotiations soon for a stage play and eventually a movie. Woo hoo!

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

V. Coleman: Doc Reid is at www.ChristopherReid.org.
Everything I do is associated to my publishing company, Pen of the Writer.
www.PenOfTheWriter.com
www.Twitter.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.FaceBook.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.YouTube.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.ShoutLife.com/PenOfTheWriter
www.BlogTalkRadio.com/PenOfTheWriter
Email: Info@PenOfTheWriter.com
Phone: 937.307.0760

Bonus Question
From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life gets a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed, how do you find peace in the storm?

V. Coleman: Does life ever have a time when it’s not hectic? Prayer is first on the list. I may not break into a full sermon, but I can holler, “HELP!” with the best of them. And while I’m waiting on the reinforcements, I may take a long walk, eat some chocolate, call a friend, cry or take a nap. My action depends upon the magnitude of the “disruption.”

V. Richardson: Valerie, thank you for an awesome chat! Thank you for sharing yourself and your works with our viewing audience. Much success to you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

God knows my name and He knows yours, too!

2011-01-15T05:54:00.000-08:00

Suddenly, she was hit hard. The unexpected impact sent her sprawling to her knees. She could hear the sound of the rain pelting against the large window. It was all a strange phenomenon, to her. Dark billowy clouds had gathered hovering and intimidating. It was a remarkable sight. The howling winds were a frightening thing to hear, the ominous sound causing chills to dance over the lone woman’s slight frame.

The forcefulness of the blow was numbing. There on her knees, stunned with disbelief, she watched the hands of time move. The clock on the mantle revealed that only minutes had passed. To her the moments seemed an eternity; hurt can make you feel that way. Hurt painful claws were fiercely embe dded in her, refusing her release. The pain was enough to cause a normal person to lose their insanity.

A glance around the room revealed nothing had changes. Her bed nicely made up, her mass of pillows was still in order. Her Bible was on the right side of her nightstand. Her slippers were by her armoire. Nothing had changed. Yet, for her everything had changed in a moment’s time. She could not breathe. She felt as though she were in a movie; cast in the wrong role. Enough! Deciding that she would no longer play role of the helpless victim, she raised her chin. It was time for a change, yet she needed answers. What was the right answer? What do I do? How could this happen?

Her kneeled position would be the beginning of her transition. For it was there on her knees, she began to pray. Normally words would fail her, (hurt can do that to a person) today was different. She encompassed with words begging for release and she obliged them with out restriction. With the winds howling ferociously and the rain continuing to fall, still on her knees, her words flowed, as did her tears. It was ugly but necessary. She was in the right position, there on my knees. However, the unction to get lower was strong. You see, some people have to dig a little deeper, stretch a little wider than others do.

Stretching out on her stomach, the words continued to flow. Startled, she looked around the room in question; for a brief moment, she thought she heard the faint call of her name. There in her humbled prayer position, she made a self-conscious decision (and it was a decision) to be free.

Praying not out of defeat but belief, she fought past the pain and called God’s name. Time lapsed, how much she may never know, but what she did know is this--prayer works.

She prayed in the storm and God guided her through it. She prayed the necessary prayer of the ugly and God made her feel like new. This was the process: I prayed, believed, and received. Then she got up! Smiling, she dried her eyes assured that everything was going to be all right. As if consenting, in agreement, the rain had suddenly stopped and the wind had calmed. What a phenomenal display of authority! At this, she was reassured; that she is never forgotten nor forsaken. God knows her name and he knows yours, too!

Picture by WAK
http://www.wak-art.com/

Author Dolapo Babalola | Author of "My God: Even in the Last Minute."

2010-12-28T01:23:00.000-08:00

V.Richardson: Hello Dolapo! I am happy to chat with you.

Dolapo Babalola:I’m delighted to chat with you. Thanks for this opportunity to reach your readers.

V.Richardson: It's indeed my pleasure! When did you first consider yourself a writer? And Why the impress to write this particular story?

Dolapo Babalola:I guess “a writer is one who writes” in which case I considered myself a writer when I realized that my writing was making a difference first and foremost in my life, and subsequently in the lives of others. I recall way back in my formative years, I enjoyed writing in my diary, most importantly while I was in a foreign country studying medicine. It was always comforting to express my thoughts down on paper; such clarity I experienced while doing so.

To answer the second question, I originally wrote my book to keep my mind focused on other activities in spite of my current challenges. I gradually matured through the process and had a keen appreciation of the omnipotence of God. Life is a journey; my experiences have shown me that it is a continuous learning curve. How we react to the situation is what makes the difference; this is when I decided to share my story with the world.

V. Richardson: My God: Even in the Last Minute is your new release. What is it about and how did the title come about?

Dolapo Babalola:My God: Even in the Last Minute (MyGelm) is an inspirational book that narrates my journey as a young aspiring physician who, in the pursuit of a permanent residency in the United States, faced multiple obstacles and challenges. Each day through this ongoing ordeal, I experienced God in a way that I never would have imagined. God showed up in the most unexpected places, in the last minute, and always with a life-changing lesson. It speaks on how the greatest lesson in our darkest hours of uncertainty is that God is close by, quietly working behind the scenes, bolstering our faith for a miracle.

The title of my book came about as I experienced my “Ah-Ha moment.” While writing my text, it dawned on me that every bit of my journey was like a road race, some situation was always approaching its deadline or I was hitting rock bottom. I would try to figure out how and when a problem would be solved, and in the process I would doubt God’s ability to handle the problem. God kept showing up in the most unexpected places to make a way for me, even when it seemed naturally impossible, even if it was in the last minute.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from your book?

Dolapo Babalola: I am excited to say that the kind of influence I was hoping for with my book started with me. While writing, I realized I can have peace of mind in my current position or any storm. I am assured that God can show up in the most unexpected place. This is the same influence, I hope to achieve with my readers through my book. The propagation of my message is to serve as a reminder that God’s plans, purposes, and pursuits can be expressed through our lives if we lay down our plans, purposes, and pursuits to Him. I learnt various life-changing lessons, which I discussed in each chapter, with the hope it would make a positive impact on someone’s life.

V. Richardson: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Dolapo Babalola:You know, I haven’t thought about what I would like to change in my book at its current state. Though, I did think of changes on multiple occasions, even after the release of “MyGelm” to the market world, which led to me withdrawing my book to make further corrections. I must confess; it was exhausting! But I trusted God to guide me and He did. So, at this point, I can now say “To God be the Glory, I am pleased.”

V. Richardson: Who are/were your literary influences? And what books have most influenced your life most?

Dolapo Babalola:So many but to mention a few; Rev Tai Ikomi has influenced my life especially in her book titled “The Art of Inspirational writing. It is an amazing book! It teaches readers to release themselves and deliver the message indoctrinated. I can say that my life never remained the same after I read Mike Murdock’s book “The Uncommon Leader.” I could read it over and over again. I just love the part that says we should focus on possibilities instead of problems. And lastly; Gifted Hands by Dr. Ben Carson. I remember reading this book in college with tears in my eyes, knowing that I can overcome any obstacle if I can only believe in myself. The message is clearly that “Champions keep playing until they get it right” words from Billie Jean King.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

Dolapo Babalola: So much, it’s unbelievable. I love the fact that I have discovered myself to be more God-fearing, Adventurous, Seizing every opportunity and a Constant learner.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

Dolapo Babalola: I would like to leave these words with aspiring authors. First and foremost, please at this junction, tell yourself you can do it, you have what it takes to achieve you goals, and by the grace and wisdom of God, you will attain your goals. In addition to this, I recently heard of the key for success in an acronym called “REFS,” which stands for Respect, Effort, Focus, and Self-control.” Making it in life and scaling through challenges is by trusting God and seeking his guidance, but also having respect for self and others, making an effort, staying focused on the ultimate goal and maintaining self-control. So get to it; don’t waste the talents and gifts, because someone out there needs to hear and read about it.

V. Richardson: Are there any up coming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

Dolapo Babalola: My husband and I recently started MyGelm blog; we love to aspire to our maximum potential by using the talents that God has blessed us with. The goal is to inspire others positively by having monthly inspirational poems on my blog, which would be opened for discussion. We invite your readers to join us and contribute to these inspirational nuggets.
Readers can stay abreast of my ongoing efforts by visiting my website and blog; http://www.mygelm.com/ and http://www.mygelm.wordpress.com/. I welcome your comments, discussion or your 2 cents on different topics.

V. Richardson: Sounds delicious! How can readers contact you?

Dolapo Babalola: I would love to hear from your readers. The best way to contact me will be via email; mygelm@gmail.com or facebook; www.facebook.com/584879119

Bonus Question

From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life can get a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed. How do you find peace in the storm?

Dolapo Babalola: Wow, when my life gets hectic, I simply go on a “self-retreat.” This is a retreat away from everyone, including my husband, children, family, etc. I spend this time re-evaluating my steps, watching movies, DANCING, just being quiet in my own world. When I am confident that I have grabbed my peace again, I come out ready to cope with life.

V. Richardson: Dolapo, thank you for an awesome chat! Thank you for sharing yourself and your works with our viewing audience. Much success to you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

Dolapo Babalola:Thank you! The pleasure is mine. I love the remarkable mission on “The Certain One,” which is “To Inspire as you Aspire.” Keep up the great work!

Video for My God: Even in the Last Minute.

COMING SOON! Love Found Me Stage Production

2010-11-23T07:18:00.000-08:00

LOVE FOUND ME
The Stage Production

Mark your calendars! Saturday, January 8th, 2011|6:00pm. The Stage Production of Love Found Me comes to life! Our special guest artist is the sensational Mr. Tony Grant from Tyler Perry's stage productions "Why Did I Get Married?", and The Marriage Counselor." You don't want to miss this one showing only performance. Purchase tickets today! Hurry as tickets are going fast!

About Tony Grant
Tony Grant, a native of North Carolina, is an American R&B singer, writer, producer and stage play actor. Grant replaced Marc Nelson as lead singer for R&B group Az Yet following Marc's departure in 1997 to pursue his solo career. Included in Grant's brief tenure with Az Yet is the popular remake of "You're The Inspiration" with Chicago's Peter Cetera.

Grant had star billing in the stage play and DVDs Tell Hell I Ain't Comin', Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married and Love Ain't Supposed To Hurt. In the earlier part his entertainment career, Tony was cast for the lead role in the stage play "A Good Man is Hard to Find" in 1991. From there he has become one of the most popular leading men in the stage play industry. In January 2008, Grant began touring with the Tyler Perry stage production The Marriage Counselor.

Tony Grant in Love Ain't Supposed To Hurt

Folake Taylor chats The Only Way is Up!

2010-11-12T02:27:00.000-08:00

Dr. Folake Taylor was born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian–born parents in the early 70s and was raised in both countries before settling in the United States to live the American dream.

Taylor obtained her medical degree (MB ChB–Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) in 1998 from the Obafemi Awolowo University College of Health Sciences in Ile-Ife, Nigeria. After medical school, she underwent a year of rotational internship in Nigeria after which she relocated to the United States. She is a 2006 graduate of the Internal Medicine Residency Program of the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA.

V.Richardson: Hi Folake! I am delighted to chat with you!

FT: I am honored you picked "The Only Way is Up" for the The Write Vision book club.

V. Richardson: It's truly my delight, as I absolutely adored, "The Only Way is Up." Please share with readers the synopsis?

FT: This book features my experiences and views on pertinent life issues as an immigrant to the United States of America. The objective is to empower women. However, the greater part of the message is of relevance to a general audience. Some of the issues that are the focus of this book are:

* Identity
* Health & Preventive medicine
* Finding a mate
* Relationships & Family
* Single parenthood
* Teenage pregnancies
* Gender roles
* Diet & Nutrition
* Global exposure
* Positivity & Loving yourself
* Spirituality
* Life outside the United States
* And much more…

V. Richardson: I am an advocate for healthy living, especially female health issues. You offer wonder information on living healthier lifestyles. What do you want readers to take away from "The Only Way is Up?"

FT: I want readers to feel empowered. I want them to have a better understanding of family values and the dynamics of relationships. I want people to be energized to do better and improve on themselves. And I want them to go after their dream and live it.

V. Richardson: Who are/were your literary influences?

FT: This is a weird choice but the first person that always comes to mind when I get asked this question is Barack Obama. I absolutely loved "Dreams From My Father" and it gave me a whole new outlook on life and what I make of it; what I can achieve.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

FT: I have discovered that I am unstoppable!

V. Richardson: "Unstoppable", I love that! There is always a story behind the author’s works. How do/did you handle rejection (s)?

FT: Like everyone else, I have the momentary "Oh no she didn't" (note I used a she because it's mostly women...funny). But then I talk to myself, I encourage myself, I look for a learning point or ways I can improve based on the criticism and I move on to the next rainbow. It's always right around the corner. Just a few days ago, my days started off with one of the most explosive mixed reviews so far and even an act I found insulting from the blogger in question.

But I talked myself out of it, responded to her like a lady and that same evening, had a blast on the radio with an interviewer. Even true valleys do not have to last forever unless we decide to stay there. Just head to the next mountain top!

V. Richardson: The mountain top, The only way there is up! Folake, what advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

FT: Read a lot. Read what you want to sound like. Write a lot. Write daily. Research the industry. Make contacts and connections in the industry. Read books about the craft. Put it in God's hands and ask for his blessings. If you don't start to write, your dream will never be realized.

V. Richardson: Sound advice, indeed! Are there any up coming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

FT: I am working on my first work of fiction, "Anonymous Gift Giver," and it is tending towards Ethnic Chick Lit. The protagonist will be an immigrant like me and she will have a lot of dating woes she will subsequently learn to rise above; and so much more. Look out for it.

V. Richardson: Sounds delicious, can't wait for its release. How can readers contact you?

FT: My email address is ft@theonlywayisup.net
Website http://www.theonlywayisup.net
F. Taylor on facebook
@folaketaylor on twitter
Blogs are http://theonlywayisupblog.blogpot.com and http://folaketaylor@blogspot.com

Bonus Question

From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life can get a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed. How do you find peace in the storm?

FT: I stop and shut out all the noise, both from outside and within my head and I talk to God. I ask him for help. If my schedule is too hectic, I cut out some things. I started to have some health problems earlier this year which I felt were not unrelated to the stress of the book tour in addition to my professional and domestic duties. I scaled back on the marketing and touring. I find peace in my heart with God. If I have to spend a whole weekend in the house and not see the outside world, that's what I do.

V. Richardson: Thank you Folake for sharing both your work and a part of who you are! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

FT: Thank you so much for having me Vanessa. It is such an honor to be recognized by someone like you. Blessings.

Inspirational Poetry by Dee Artis

2010-11-12T01:43:00.000-08:00

You Were There
You were there through all of the ridicule.
You were there when I told you about him.
You were there when I lost my love ones.
And I am so thankful, and blessed to know that you are still there.

I Feel Blessed

I feel blessed to have had you in my life.
I feel blessed to know your family, you will always hold a special place in my heart. I feel blessed.

Author Bio:
Dee Artis is an English lover who loves writing and reading. Dee wrote first poem in 9th/10th grade. She wrote her first story titled, "Where is mine?".

Contact Dee Artis:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=514303948#!/profile.php?id=100000356496028

Disclaimer
Art Work by Fred Mathews

Mystery Author Stacy-Deanne

2010-10-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

V.Richardson: Greetings Stacy! I am happy to finally chat with you.

SD: Thanks for having me.

V. Richardson: It's my delight. Stacy, let’s talk “Melody”, it is your mystery series. What is the synopsis about?

SD: Actually Melody is a standalone but the detectives in it are the stars of my new mystery/crime and interracial romance series. Melody is about a young woman who fights to prove that her sister’s new boyfriend is dangerous while protecting her best friend from becoming the victim of a serial rapist.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from “Melody?”

SD: I just wanted them to be entertained. Whatever else they got was a bonus. As long as it was enjoyable to them, that’s all that matters.

V. Richardson: Share with readers who are/were your literary influences?

SD: Because I like dark suspense and thrillers, Edgar Allan Poe, Oscar Wilde and Robert Louis-Stevenson are my biggest literary influences. Hitchcock is my largest influence for mysteries and suspense altogether. I find all of these legends to be geniuses in their own right.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

SD: That I am stronger than I thought I was and very determined when it comes to something I want to achieve. I also realized how much I loved a challenge and that’s probably why I’ve come so far. I don’t give up and always keep fighting.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the author’s works. How do/did you handle rejection (s)?

SD: I just let it roll off my back. Of course it’s always disappointing to be rejected but you can’t let it stop you. You gotta also realize it’s a part of the industry. If you give up then you’ll never know what you can accomplish. Gotta take the good with the bad and believe that the rewards will come one day.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

SD: Research the industry and be realistic. They should make sure they are writing for the right reasons or it’s never gonna make you happy. Write because you love it, not just hoping for publication because the truth is a lot of writers do not get published.

V. Richardson: Are there any up coming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

SD: The debut installment of my mystery/crime and interracial romance series, “Giving up the Ghost” will be released April 2011 by Peace in the Storm Publishing. The second installment will be released in 2012 and I have a lot of other things going on. I invite everyone to check out my site to keep in touch with me: http://www.stacy-deanne.net

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

SD: At my site they can send me a message on my contact page or send me an invite on many of the social networks I am on like Facebook, Twitter, etc. I’m all over the net.

Bonus Question

From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life can get a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed. How do you find peace in the storm?

SD: Good question. All I can say is I keep going. Life can be hard and it can be draining but if you stay focus on your goals and what you want out of life, you can conquer anything thrown at you. So I look within myself to find peace and satisfaction. I also do all I can to always be a positive person and keep a positive outlook. That makes all the difference. How we think is a powerful thing.

V. Richardson: Stacy it was delightful to chat Melody amongst other things with you. As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

SD: Thank you, Vanessa. I appreciate the support and I hope everyone checks out the series! They can get a sneak peak of “Giving up the Ghost” at my site.

Best Wishes!

Jazz. Java, and Jesus Author Aleysha R. Proctor

2010-09-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

About the Book

Twenty-four Christian devotions and puzzles about jazz, java and Jesus. The perfect book to take to a coffee or tea house, or anywhere, and meditate on the promises of God.

Jazz, Java & Jesus:
Christian Devotions to Soothe Your Soul
Author: Aleysha R. Proctor
Publisher: Xlibris
ISBN: 9781441574350
Genre: Christian, nonfiction, devotional, studies

About the Author:

Aleysha Proctor is an award winning Christian inspirational author & entrepreneur. She’s the author of three books; “With Style & Amazing Grace”, “He’s the Keeper of My Soul” and “Jazz, Java & Jesus”. Her passion in life is helping to inspire people to use their potential now. To learn more about Aleysha, you can visit her online at http://www.aleyshaproctor.com/.

Purchase the Book Online at:

• Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Jazz-Java-Jesus-Aleysha-Proctor/dp/1441574352/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1281223302&sr=8-2

• BarnesandNoble – http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Jazz-Java-Jesus/Aleysha-R-Proctor/e/9781441574350/?itm=2&USRI=aleysha+proctor

• Books A Million – http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781441574350?id=4715246323067

For More Information

View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/JazzJavaandJesusTour

Book Trailer for Jazz Java and Jesus Tour

Vanessa Richardson’s review of Jazz, Java, and Jesus

Jazz, Java, Jesus:Christian Devotions to Soothe Your Soul
Author: Aleysha R. Proctor has certainly made my sharing is caring list. It is a wonderful read, which makes you want to do as the title claims. Listen to some comfy (for my soothing Christian jazz) as I sip my cappuccino; as I read this devotional. Ahh, my soul is soothed. Jazz, Java, and Jesus is an inspirational read; reminding of God’s promises to YOU, ME, and US….God’s people. I was truly impressed and delighted by the cross word puzzles that Aleysha added in the back of the book. 4 stars read for me! Enjoy!

The Only Way Up Blog Tour with Folake Taylor, MD

2010-09-22T01:04:00.000-07:00

Folake Taylor will be giving away autographed copies of her book, The Only Way is Up – 3 winners will be chosen on Friday. Leave a comment below.

This book features the author’s experiences and views on pertinent life issues as an immigrant to the United States of America. The objective is to empower women. However, the greater part of the message is of relevance to a general audience. Some of the issues that are the focus of this book are:

* Identity
* Health & Preventive medicine
* Finding a mate
* Relationships & Family
* Single parenthood
* Teenage pregnancies
* Gender roles
* Diet & Nutrition
* Global exposure
* Positivity & Loving yourself
* Spirituality
* Life outside the United States

And much more…

About the Book

This book features the author’s experiences and views on pertinent life issues as an immigrant to the United States of America. The objective is to empower women. However, the greater part of the message is of relevance to a general audience.

Some of the issues that are the focus of this book are:

* Identity
* Health & Preventive medicine
* Finding a mate
* Relationships & Family
* Single parenthood
* Teenage pregnancies
* Gender roles
* Diet & Nutrition
* Global exposure
* Positivity & Loving yourself
* Spirituality
* Life outside the United States
And much more…

Purchase this Book Online:
* Amazon
* Barnes and Noble
* Books A Million
* Indiebound

About the Author

Folake Taylor is an outpatient Internal Medicine Physician in the suburbs of Atlanta Georgia. She is married with a little girl. She obtained her residency training at the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta after her initial medical education in Nigeria. She was born in the United Kingdom to Nigerian born parents.

Where can visitors find you online?

FT@theonlywayisup.net

http://www.theonlywayisup.net

http://theonlywayisupblog.blogspot.com

http://folaketaylor.blogspot.com

F. Taylor of facebook

@folaketaylor on twitter

I write for Afrikan Goddess online.

Book trailer of The Only Way is Up

Vanessa Richardson's Review of "The Only Way is Up" by Folake Taylor

I was utterly delighted with this book. It was written as I thought it would be. Author Folake Taylor, also an Internal Medical Doctor; takes readers on a private journey, hailing her experiences as a Nigerian/English transplant. Folake expounds on controversial social, racial, and economical differences, in a diplomatic and informative matter.
Never let it be said that only pain can bring forth wonderful inspirational writings. Happiness is just as powerful, if not motivational!

Myne Whitman | Author of A Heart To Mend

2010-09-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

V.Richardson: Greetings Myne! I am happy to chat with you.

Myne: Thank you for the opportunity Vanessa.

V.Richardson: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

Myne: I started writing as a child but only began to save my manuscripts when I was like 20 or so. A Heart to Mend is my first novel. The narrative of AHTM is very instinctive, from my heart and from my head too. I am practically a novice at writing. I entered this writing business, really, from outside. My entire background has been in sciences; I studied biological science for my first degree, then public health research for my masters. I’ve never had any formal training in writing. So what I write is from my own personal makeup, and less from what I have picked up in writing books and online courses, which go more toward the craft of being a writer.

V. Richardson: “A Heart to Mend” is your latest release. What is the synopsis about and how did you come up with the title?

Myne: A Heart to Mend narrates a love story and a journey of self-discovery and the title comes from the main characters who are very cynical about love. Gladys Eborah moves to Lagos from a deprived single-parent home in Enugu, to seek a job. She lives with a formerly estranged aunt who wants to be forgiven and so has the uneasy role of the bridge between both families. A new job and good friends gradually transition Gladys into an independent young woman and then she meets and begins to fall for Edward Bestman.

Edward is handsome, very wealthy, and believes money can buy everything. Though physically attracted to Gladys, he is not ready to give his heart. To make matters worse, Gladys is implicated in a plot to take over his company. Who are these people that want to betray him and destroy their happiness and will Edward trust Gladys enough to give love a chance?

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from “A Heart to Mend?”.

Myne: The novel details how we can be affected by events from our past and how it may limit our opportunities in the present, especially in the area of love and relationships. Gladys obsesses over the divide between her and Edward, while he had barricaded his heart and was not letting anyone in, man or woman. The message is that none of us is perfect but we should be able to keep our heart open for that (sometimes one) person who has enough masking tape to cover our imperfections.

V. Richardson: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Myne: Well I’m not sure about that. But a few of my readers have mentioned that they would have preferred if the business setting of the novel was not so detailed.

V. Richardson: Who are your literary influences? And what books have most influenced your life most?

Myne: I read a lot and have so many authors that I love. They include several Mills and Boons writers, Barbara Cartland, Francine Rivers, Sidney Sheldon, Robert Ludlum, Leon Uris, John Grisham, and Micheal Critchton. And in Africa: the Pacestters writers, African Writers Series, Flora Nwapa, Buchi Emecheta, Cyprian Ekwensi, Chinua Achebe, and more recently Chimamanda Adichie and Jude Dibia.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

Myne: I have discovered a strength and dedication I did not previously know I possessed. I thought, when I became a full time writer that I would lack motivation to finish a novel but I have managed to finish the first and I’m now working on the second. There are also other ideas I am toying with.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the author’s works. How do/did you handle rejection (s)?

Myne: It hurts and I may feel discouraged for a while but then I look at the rejection letters again, take a deep breath, and say to myself, "So what do I do next." There may or may not be another step in there, which would be to analyse the work I submitted, to see if it can be improved in any way. It usually can. And then there may be other markets to send them out to.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

Myne: To the aspiring writers, I will say that they should keep at it. A lot of upcoming writers are actually very talented and just have to continue polishing their craft till opportunity knocks. I wish everyone the best. To my fans and readers, I love you all and say a great big THANK YOU!

V. Richardson: Are there any up coming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

Myne: I am working on my next novel, titled Ghost of the Past. The novel will be released in February 2011 to be followed by more contemporary African romances.

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

Myne: For more info, readers can visit my website at www.mynewhitman.com; Join me at http://www.facebook.com/Myne.Whitman or Follow me at http://www.twitter.com/Myne_Whitman.

Bonus Question
From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life can get a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed. How do you find peace in the storm?

Myne: I believe in the power of God to heal our pain and doubt. I usually pray at such times. I also listen to some gospel or soft music and maybe write a little, if there is a manuscript I’m already working on.

V. Richardson: Myne, I truly count it an honor getting to know you and your work. Thank you for sharing yourself and your works with our viewing audience. Greater success to you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

Myne: Thank you so much once again. It has been a pleasure getting to know you too. You’re also an inspiration. God bless you

A Heart to Mend Book Trailer

Soon After Blog Tour Sherryle Kiser Jackson

2010-09-08T15:53:00.000-07:00

Multi-published author, teacher, wife and mother, Sherryle seeks to be a fresh voice in Christian Fiction. Her triumphant debut novel, Soon and Very Soon (2007) was followed up by her sophomore release, The Manual (2009).

Soon After marks the return of her franchise characters, Pastors WIllie and Vanessa Green and the Harvest Baptist church saga. Sherrryle is currently working on her fourth novel for Urban Christian (Urban/Kensington) titled Taylor-Made. She currently lives in Maryland with her husband and two children.

Sherryle, tell us about Soon After.

Soon After picks up where my debut novel, Soon and Very Soon left off. In the first installment two pastors marry and decide to combine their churches. In this second installment the ministry birthed by one over at Harvest Baptist church is likely to be exploited by the minister left to run the church. With more than one who had an interest in the deed in the property and even more with an emotional investment in the church itself, it’s up to reporter, Alexis Montgomery and Chief Herbert Rich to solve the crime.

About the Book

The Ministry birthed by one will be exploited by another. Can Willie Green stand idly by and let that happen?

When Pastors Willie Green and Vanessa Morton got married and moved to merge their churches, they never expected so much resistance. Now it seems someone is sending a strong message by setting fire to the Harvest Baptist Church building.

The newly unified Pleasant Harvest Baptist Church is no more than four months into business as usual before Co-Pastor Willie Green is drawn into the middle of an arson investigation. Alexis Montgomery, an overzealous reporter, sees the experienced pastor as a great source to latch onto as she tries to unearth the stories that might solve the crime. Instead of being bothered by the presence of this woman, Co-Pastor Vanessa uses it as a distraction to help conceal her own secrets.

Orchestrating the unification rift makes Deacon Charley Thompson a prime suspect. His unexpected silence only fuels the accusations of guilt, and his meek wife becomes his unlikely spokesperson. Meanwhile, his nephew, Abe Townsend, couldn’t care less about family allegiances. Led by an anonymous publicist, Abe and the remaining displaced members of Harvest Baptist Church gain notoriety when news reports garner an outcry of sympathy and support.

What should have been a simple unification of two churches has turned into something much more complicated, and it will take plenty of faith to hold it all.

Purchase the Book Online at:

• Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Soon-After-Sherryle-Kiser-Jackson/dp/1601628676/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1281221062&sr=8-1

• BarnesandNoble – http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Soon-After/Sherryle-Kiser-Jackson/e/9781601628671/?itm=1&USRI=soon+after

• Borders – http://www.borders.com/online/store/TitleDetail?sku=1601628676

• Books A Million – http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781601628671?id=4715246323067

• Indiebound - http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781601628671

For More Information

• Visit the author online at http://www.sherrylejackson.com/

• View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/SoonAfterTour.

Who wants to be weak?

2010-09-01T16:28:00.001-07:00

Catamenial pneumothorax is an extremely rare condition that affects women. Pneumothorax is the medical term for a collapsed lung, a condition in which air or gas is trapped in the space surrounding the lungs causing the lungs to collapse. Women with catamenial pneumothorax have recurrent episodes of pneumothorax that occur within 72 hours before or after the start of menstruation.

The exact cause of catamenial pneumothorax is unknown and several theories have been proposed. Some cases are associated with the abnormal develop of endometrial tissue outside of the uterus (endometriosis), although the exact nature of this relationship in these cases is unknown.

I am happy to know that this health issue is no longer as silent as it once was. Doctors and women who have or have suffered from these ailments are speaking out and I am glad about it! To date, I have had a total of seven chest tubes. Chest insertion procedure-- or procedures in my case are memorable experiences. Indeed it shall forever be embedded in my mind, as it is quite painful. Er,did I mention quite PAINFUL. I have added a clip below to prove my point. It is funny. I was quite embarrassed to admit that I suffered from this ailment. Why? I thought it was a sign of weakness…and I don’t do weakness well. Lol.

Don’t get upset with me over my proclamation. Who wants to be weak? Sure we all have our Achilles' heels; it’s what makes us human. Never the less…it was an awkward feeling for me. Until I needed answers. I thought of the biblical passage “For when I am weak, then am I strong." I like that…that is a voluptuous expression. I hope this blog post be of help to someone. Who may not be struggling with a health issue; maybe it's financial, emotional, and possibly spiritual struggles. In spite of life contending forces, there is still a choice. YES! you still have a choice to be and live a happy life. Trust me you do. Smile. Go ahead smile…it looks good on you! It’s going to be alright. Go for your goals. Aim high and don’t look low. The world is your oyster, you can have it steamed, boiled, and fried--any way you want it. Just do it! YOU must decide.

Chest tube insertion procedure: WARNING VIEWING DISCRETION ADVISED.

http://www.experienceproject.com/group_stories.php?g=89797
http://cigna.com.pe/healthinfo/nord1227.html

Success Mentor Barbara Hofmeister

2010-08-19T07:28:00.000-07:00

Join author and success mentor Barbara Hofmeister on The Certain Ones Blog
Talk Show. Saturday, August 21st, 2010|6:00pm. Call-in Number:
(917) 932-1607. Click on Icon below to listen in! Aspiring to inspire!

Listen to internet radio with The Certain Ones on Blog Talk Radio

Barbara Hofmeister is an internationally renowned speaker, author and expert on the topic of human growth. In the last 2 years alone she spoke to over 15.000 people helping them to get their dreams back and the courage to make them come true.She became interested in her own personal growth in 1978 when a friend gave her the book “Your erroneous zones” by Dr. Wayne Dyer. Since then she has not stopped studying the topic until she felt she had to write down all her learnings and share them with the public. Her book is called “To be or not to be – the choice is YOURS!” and uses a practical step by step approach to get you from where you are today to where you want to go in your life.

Barbara considers it her mission to help as many people as possible to rediscover their dreams and to gain the confidence and belief in themselves to actually make them come true.Barbara is a passionate advocate of constant learning and reinventing oneself. No matter whether you are in one of her coaching groups or go to her workshops, you will always get drawn in by her never ending enthusiasm and passion for helping you succeed.

Do you still have dreams?

And do you want to make them come true?

I am sure you do. Why else would you be here? Therefore I ask you to please read this page carefully: It can get you some major insights.
In my live workshops and trainings as well as in the Success Cycle Coaching Program I notice that the majority of people still have a big dream lurking in the background BUT most have given up on it. In many cases it has become so vague that it totally faded into the background… soon to be forgotten altogether. I find that really scary because it means that they are not living their life, they are living their environment’s (family, friends, society etc.) idea of what their life should be like.

I invite you to take a close look at your life to make sure this is not happening to you! I can see it in over 90% of the people I work with and it is one of the main reasons why they strive for happiness but can not achieve it. Over 90%!!!

If you don’t want to be one of them, I urge you to get my book “To be or not to be – the choice is YOURS!” Not only because it’s MY book and I am mighty proud of it. I want you to get it because it takes you by the hand and walks you through a step by step process of re-defining your destiny and purpose in order to live your own dream life. My book is not theory. It is full of practical techniques that have helped me and thousands of my clients to move towards their dream life. And you will see that the “To Be” book is not just a reading book, it is actually a full manual, a full program that walks you through the processes of

*
defining your purpose
*
creating a clear vision of your dream life
*
becoming aware of your values and beliefs
*
facing your challenges and overcoming them
*
setting clear anchors and achievable goals
*
using a step by step process to achieve those goals
*
stregthening your belief in yourself and your abilities
*
being motivated to taking the right action steps to truly live your dream!

Contact Barbara Hofmeister at:
http://barbarahofmeister.com

Successful Women Speak

2010-08-05T05:16:00.000-07:00

"I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up nor awake my love, until he please."Song of Songs 8:4.

Often the focus is more on the wedding plans, than the actual marriage. Join me this Saturday for an intimate conversation with Author LaNicia Deanne Williams: All My Single Ladies! LaNicia is a spiritua...l life coach and founder of Changed Living, LLC. This one will be explosive!

About Lanicia
LaNicia Williams ran from her calling until she ran to her calling. As a third generation “preacher’s kid,” LaNicia decided at an early age that she would not follow in the footsteps of her mother, aunt, uncles, grandparents, and great-grandparents. One day, LaNicia realized that running from God was only making her life miserable, so she decided to run to God. Since then, LaNicia has embraced her call from God to encourage and uplift others.

LaNicia is a spiritual life coach and founder of Changed Living, LLC. The mission of Changed Living is to help every individual reach a more evolved inner perspective
through divine (God) power. Changed Living desires to assist people believe they have the power by looking within and finding peace and contentment that can only come
from God who lives in us. Using a combination of personal experience, scripture, and Godly wisdom, LaNicia constantly seeks to help others understand that not only will God lead you to the promise land; He will also lead you through the wilderness.

Changed Living, LLC hosts “Growing in God” weekly prayer line for women on Monday
mornings 6am to 7am PST, in addition to “Growing in God” women’s bible study that
conducts bi-weekly bible studies every other Thursday 6:30pm to 7:30pm PST via
teleconference. The call in number is (712) 775-7400 access code 558046.

In 2011, Changed Living, LLC will host both physical and virtual retreats for women aswe begin to embrace the “Eve” inside of us.
LaNicia is currently writing her first book for publication. To contact LaNicia for a
consultation or speaking engagements, please contact her at info@changedliving.com.

National Association Women on the Rise Successful Women Speak
ON SPIRITUALITY

I Am Eve ©LaNicia Williams
“Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he
brought her to the man. Then man said, ‘This is now my bone of my bones and flesh of
my flesh; she shall be called woman, for she was taken out of man.’” Genesis 2:22-23
NIV

God created Eve (you and I) to give Adam companionship and to help Adam rule
over God’s creation. A woman is special not only to God, but to the man she is created
to give life to. Eve’s primary job is to give life and to protect life (the heart).

How does Eve do it?
Eve knows who she is – “I praise God because I am fearfully and wonderfully made,
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14 NIV. Affirmation: I have to
have confidence in who God has called me to be, i.e. Eve.
Eve knows whose she is – “‘I am the Lord’s servant,’ Mary answered. ‘May it be to me as
you have said.’ Then the angel left her.” Luke 1:38 NIV. Affirmation: God created me
and He knows His plan for my life.

Eve loves who she is – “The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no
shame.” Genesis 2:25 NIV. Affirmation: To honor God is to not be ashamed of whom
God made me to be.

Eve knows her place – “…And who knows but that you have come to royal position for
such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 NIV. Affirmation: When we know where we belong, it is
easier to fit in.

Eve worships God – “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.”
John 4:24 NIV. Affirmation: Worship prevents me from worrying.
National Association Women on the Rise Successful Women Speak.

Join us Saturday, August 7th, 20106:00pm.
www.blogtalkradio.com/thecertainones

Maya Angelou Rocks!

2010-07-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

I have been inspired to share this poem all week...I can remember the first time I'd read Dr. Maya Angelou's poem, Phenomenal Woman.

I was awed by the words I read- now some odd years later, the poem's affect is still same today, if not more intense for me!

Can you feel this one? Inspirational, motivational, strong, survivors, achievers. Salute! And to the strong men by their sides. Salute!

PHENOMENAL WOMAN
by Maya Angelou

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing of my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them,
They say they still can't see.
I say
It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
The palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

Black Diamond by Ja'Nese Dixon

2010-07-22T00:40:00.000-07:00

About Ja'Nese Dixon

Ja'Nese Dixon writes fiction novels for readers yearning to escape and disappear into a good book. Ja'Nese's debut novel, Black Diamond is scheduled for release in June 2010. She resides in Houston, Texas, with her husband and their two children. For more information visit http://www.janesedixon.com.

About Black Diamond

Camille Blackwell, an undercover FBI agent, poses as a jewelry purchaser in an international diamond trading company in hopes of identifying the domestic players in a vicious rebel group suspected of trafficking conflict diamonds. The Bureau requests CIA renegade Marc Fulton's assistance with sweeping international intelligence to identify the major rebel organizations with the finances and stateside connections strong enough to evade criminal prosecution, despite Camille's objections.

Their attraction is instant and tense; both resolve to focus on the case. But when Camille receives an encrypted memory stick from a murdered co-worker Marc may be the only person she can trust.Black Diamond is the eagerly anticipated debut novel by Ja'Nese Dixon. True love, like black diamonds, is rare and precious but when murder and a persistent criminal threaten a frail relationship, will love triumph?

Black Diamond by Ja'Nese Dixon Virtual Book Tour is organized by Nia Promotions, a marketing company that assists authors and publishers with using web-marketing strategy to market and promote books on the internet. Follow Ja'Nese's tour at http://bit.ly/blackdiamondvbt.

Author Interview:

V. Richardson: Hello Ja’Nese. It is a delight to be chatting with you.

J. Dixon: Thank you. I appreciate you extending the offer.

V.Richardson: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

J. Dixon: I considered myself a writer as a child. I loved writing poetry and lyrics. I’m still coming to terms with being a novelist. I claim it now that I’m holding Black Diamond in my hands and once I look back at the hours and hours of work it required to bring this project to life. However, it still stutters off my tongue when asked.

V. Richardson: Black Diamond is your latest book. What is the synopsis about and how did you come up with the title?

J. Dixon: Camille Blackwell, an undercover FBI agent, poses as a jewelry purchaser in an international diamond trading company in hopes of identifying the domestic players in a vicious rebel group suspected of trafficking conflict diamonds. The Bureau requests CIA renegade Marc Fulton’s assistance with sweeping international intelligence to identify the major rebel organizations with the finances and stateside connections strong enough to evade criminal prosecution, despite Camille’s objections. Their attraction is instant and tense; both resolve to focus on the case. But when Camille receives an encrypted memory stick from a murdered co-worker Marc may be the only person she can trust.

Black Diamond is the eagerly anticipated debut novel by Ja’Nese Dixon. True love, like black diamonds, is rare and precious but when murder and a persistent criminal threaten a frail relationship, will love triumph?

As for the title, I found myself fascinated with a black diamond jewelry set. At that time, I didn’t know that black diamonds existed. After conducting my research I decided to focus my story on the diamond industry, but I kept the title. Readers will find that it plays a significant role in Camille’s life.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from Black Diamond?

J. Dixon: I want readers to 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.

V. Richardson: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

J. Dixon: No. I trust that every lesson was needed or due to my stubbornness. It also provides more experience for the next project.

V. Richardson: Who are your literary influences? And what books have most influenced your life most?

J. Dixon: My list of literary influences is too long to share here. However, I can name a few. Beverly Jenkins, Anita Bunkley, Karen Wiesner. I’m an avid readers so selecting a few is like asking to pick a favorite child. The books that most influenced my life are the Bible and “Why Should White Guys Have All The Fun?” Both have been instrumental in my life.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

J. Dixon: That I am extremely resourceful and I excel under pressure.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the author’s works. How do/did you handle rejection (s)?

J. Dixon: I believe it’s their loss. I always find a way to move ahead. I know that what is meant for me will be mine. Thus, I accept that those moments and/or opportunities are meant for another.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

J. Dixon: “Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) You will experience highs, lows, disappointments, rejection, and so much more on this journey. It’s not easy. But hold on to what God has placed in you and you’ll be fine.

V. Richardson: Are there any up coming and/or future projects readers should be made aware of?

J. Dixon: I am currently on the virtual book tour for Black Diamond. You can read about prior stops on my website. I am also a contributing author in Coffee Confessions. Please visit my blog for my appearances, events, and books. So, I’m promoting like a mad woman and writing my next book, Intoxicated.

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

J. Dixon: Website and Blog: www.janesedixon.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/janesedixon

Book Page: www.facebook.com/authorjanesedixon

Twitter: www.twitter.com/janesedixon

GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/janese_dixon

Bonus Question

From The Heart:

V. Richardson: When life can get a little hectic and you are feeling a little dismayed. How do you find peace in the storm?

J. Dixon: I have a book of my favorite bible verses that I pull out and read. Many I have committed to memory. And I’d love to share two verses that ensure me of God’s love for me through any storm.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.” Jeremiah 1:5

“The Lord is with me, I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? Psalm 118:6

These verses are real to me because they remind me of two things: He’s in control and I have to trust His process. It sounds easy, but our daily walk speaks otherwise. Which is why we’re charged with placing His words in our heart. Most of our sorrow, heartache, pain is at the hands of another person. Thus, in those moments I remind myself that it’s not about me, but is has everything to do with Him and I allow His words and spirit to comfort me.

V. Richardson: Ja’Nese, it was awesome to chat with you. Thank you for sharing yourself and your works with our reading audience. Much success to you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

I Am Who I Am

2010-07-11T04:32:00.000-07:00

I Am Who That I Am

Growing up I was surrounded by beautiful women. It still remains so today. I am surrounded by a bevy of beautiful women, focused, humble, and sure-footed. Their statures ranges from small to full figured. Some skin tones ranges from dark chocolate to vanilla. Just beatific and not esthetically so. These ladies are beautiful both on the inside and out side. Suffice it say that their mother’s has certainly raised them right.

They wear their high heels with great ease. Their accessories are always in place, and their make up is on point. Fierce are these sistah’s! I love it! But, ahh, it’s not for me. Lol. The point of this entry is simple: Be you. I prefer my low shoes. Don’t get me wrong. I am a lady and like feeling and looking like one. But I am who I am and they respect me for that. Never do they try to change me. My weirdness and all. True friends will let you be and/or do you.

Authentic friends may see you are on a path self-destruction they will call an intervention. Sometimes we can be too close to our pain and we can not see things with clarity. Authentic friends will issue an prevention. They know when to talk and when to back off. To hear and to listen. To talk and to speak. And yes, my friends, yes, yes, yes there are a difference between those entities. In the end be who you are and what you are designed to do-- as you do you! Your shoes looks good on you! Just your size...work it.

2010-07-05T23:10:00.001-07:00

ReShonda Tate Billingsley is a national bestselling author of 19 books, all published by Simon and Schuster/Pocket Books. In 2000, after numerous rejections from publishers, ReShonda stepped out on faith, established her own publishing company, and self published her debut novel, My Brother’s Keeper. The book caught the attention of one of the country’s top literary agents, who secured a deal for ReShonda with megahouse publisher, Simon & Schuster/Pocket Books.

The rest, as they say, is history.

ReShonda went on to sign one deal after another with Simon & Schuster and to date, is considered one of the country’s top inspirational authors. Her sophomore novel, Let the Church Say Amen, is being made into a movie of which she is Executive Producer and actress Regina King is the director. ReShonda’s literary career is such a success that in 2007, she was able to leave her job as a reporter with Fox 26 News in Houston to write full time.

ReShonda has appeared on the Essence Bestseller’s list more than 20 times, as well as The Washington Post, Dallas Morning News and Ebony Magazine Bestseller’s lists. Her books include The Devil is a Lie, Can I Get a Witness, The Pastor’s Wife, Let the Church Say Amen, Everybody Say Amen, I Know I’ve Been Changed and My Brother’s Keeper. Her inspirational teen novels include Nothing But Drama, Blessings in Disguise,With Friends Like These, Getting Even, Fairweather Friends, Friends ‘Til the End, and Caught up in the Drama. She has one non-fiction title, Help! I’ve Turned into my Mother. ReShonda has won numerous awards for her journalism, fiction and poetry writing skills. She is a five-time winner of the National Association of Black Journalists Spirit in the Words competition, one of Rolling Out Magazine’s Top 25 Women in Houston and H-Texas Magazine’s Top Professional.

ReShonda’s upcoming projects include Holy Rollers (July 2010), Say Amen, Again (July, 2011), the teen novel Drama Queens (Fall 2010), and two travel suspense novels. The Houston native also serves as a freelance editorial and marketing consultant. She has ghostwritten four fiction projects and five non-fiction projects. She is married with three small children and does not hide her addiction to Reality TV and Facebook.

She welcomes readers to her websites at www.reshondatatebillingsley.com.

About the Book

Looking for Love...

Lifelong friends Coco, Nita, and Audra have spent years looking for love in the arms of flashy pro athletes, hoping to land a baller but ending up with a stream of failed relationships. The beautiful and demure Coco has endured years of physical abuse from her boyfriend, Sonny, while Audra, a single mother, has dated her fair share of cheaters and yearns for a stable companion who will be a father figure to her son. And feisty, seductive Nita is tired of being the million-dollar mistress and wants to settle down—if she can find someone worth coming home to.

Changing the Game . . .

Now that the women are approaching thirty, they’re finding it harder than ever to compete with the pro groupies. Determined to change the game and find some worthwhile men, Audra hatches an outrageous plan. Soon the trio is “holy rolling,” masquerading as God-fearing churchgoers at a local conference for young ministers in the hopes of snagging a prominent pastor. But will their big gamble pay off? Men of the cloth are still just men, after all. As the three friends meet their potential life partners, they will have to decide how far they want to take their holy rollers scheme—each risking heartbreak while taking a chance on finding a reliable, responsible man to love and cherish, flaws and all.

View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/HolyRollersBlogTour

2010-06-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

Vanessa Richardson’s CARING is SHARING Literary List!

Hello friends! As I aforementioned I am starting my sharing is caring list. I am starting first with my literary list. I am considering posting my list every month. I am listing some delicious reads I’ve discovered. Some I may have read or want to read (I am forever in search of good reads and interviews) so here it is and in no particular order.

Note: I will continue to add on my list as there are many great reads out there. Some are hidden but I am determined to find them and share with you my friends: Because Sharing is Caring! *smiles*

The Grace Series by Kendra Norman Bellamy
The Shack by William P. Young
Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years by Amy Hill Hearth, A. Elizabeth Delany, Sarah L. Delany
Heart of the Hood by Eryk Hood
It’s the Woman You Gave Me! by Shon Hyneman
Better Than Ever by David and Jan Stoop, PH.D.
My Time with God 15 minute devotional for the whole year
Winter's Kisses by Pauline Evans
Glorious by Bernice L. McFadden
Desires of the Heart by Beverly Taylor
Even Numbers by Barbara Grosvenor
Desire at Will by Adrienna Turner
Love Found Me by Vanessa Richardson
Yesterday's Promise by Vanessa Miller
Joy by Victoria Christopher Murray
25 Miles to Touching the Heart of God by Christel Lim
Wings of Grace by Vanessa Davis Griggs
Mirror Beware by Dream Sumore

Vanessa Richardson's Intimate Conversation with CeCe Winans

2010-06-25T17:35:00.001-07:00

ABOUT: If you ask CeCe Winans what drives her, the answer will be far removed from her endless list of accolades, best-selling albums, widespread industry recognition, and vast amounts of press coverage. She’ll make no mention of the multiple GRAMMY®, Stellar, and Dove awards she’s garnered over the years, let alone the several gold-and platinum-certified albums she’s scored-not even those she nabbed with brother BeBe as part of the hit-making duo BeBe & CeCe Winans.

She won’t tell you she’s graced the covers of high-profile publications such as Essence, Jet, CCM, and Today’s Christian Woman, among countless others, or that she’s made her rounds in the talk-show circuit, making appearances on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Oprah, Live with Regis & Kathie Lee, and more. And radio hits? Forget about it.When all is said and done, CeCe’s heart lies someplace else. Thy Kingdom Come (PureSprings Gospel), her eighth solo album, is a reflection of where her heart resides: in the very inner court of the heavenly realms, where Christ Himself is enthroned.

Please join me for a special edition of The Certain Ones online radio talk show. Tuesday, June 29th, 2010|3:00pm. CeCe Winans will be my special guest! We will discuss her book "Always Sisters" and her Always Sisters Forever Brothers Youth Conference.

Log on to www.blogtalkradio.com/thecertainones or call in (917) 932-1607 to be apart of this inspirational segment!

Visit CeCe Winans on the web at: www.CeCeWinans.com

Vanessa Richardson intimate conversation with author Linda Leigh Hargrove

2010-06-17T06:57:00.000-07:00

About Linda Hargrove

IN THE BEGINNING
Linda Leigh Hargrove head shot Around 1992 I became involved in an urban ministry called Building Together Ministries (BTM). As a CCDA ministry, BTM has racial reconciliation as one of its tenets. My husband and I became co-leaders of racial reconciliation discussion groups that we called ’supper clubs.’

The clubs were made up of blacks and whites from various denominations throughout the region. Each month we met in homes and church basements to discuss how we, the church, might better address racial problems in our country. We used books like More Than Equals by Spencer Perkins and Chris Rice and Breaking Down Walls by Raleigh Washington and Glen Kehrein.

THINGS GOT RADICAL
In 1995 I began a personal Bible study of John. When I started John 17 it was like I was reading a new Word. Jesus’s prayer for oneness struck a cord with me. In my eyes, we Christians weren’t living out that prayer. It saddened me.

I felt God’s leading to do something ‘racially radical’ so that, as John 17:22 states, the world might be drawn to Him. Around that same time, God was leading my husband to become involved in a predominately white church. I gladly followed. Within a year, we became members and started a racial reconciliation prayer group. In time I began speaking at the church’s women’s conference on racial reconciliation.

Please join me this Saturday, June 19th,
2010|6:00pm for an intimate discussion with ministry shaking, prolific author, and Kingdom Builder Linda Leigh Hargrove.

We will be discussing her many faucets as a woman and-- a topic that is near and dear to my heart. Adoption. This is an online Blog Talk Radio interview that can be enjoyed from the comforts of your own homes. Hope to see you or hear you there! www.blogtalkradio.com/thecertainones

Date/ Time: 6/12/2010 6:00 PM.
Call-in Number: (917) 932-1607.

Sins of the Mother by Victory Christopher Murray

2010-06-14T22:33:00.000-07:00

Victoria Christopher Murray originally self published Temptation. “I wanted to write a book as entertaining as any book on the market, put God in the middle, and have the book still be a page-turner. I wasn’t writing to any particular genre – I didn’t even know Christian fiction existed. I just wanted to write about people I knew and characters I could relate to.”

Since Temptation, Victoria has written seven other novels and was a contributor to the first Christian fiction anthology, Blessed Assurance. She was also the Contributing Editor for the Aspire Women of Color Bible published by Zondervan in 2007. All of her novels have continued to be Essence bestsellers.

In 2008, Victoria’s first novels in her Christian fiction teen series – The Divine Divas – were published. “I was concerned with what our young ladies were reading. I decided to do something about that – give them stories full of drama, but with a message.” The Divine Divas has already been optioned to become a television series.

Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington D.C. In Los Angeles, she attends Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church under the spiritual tutelage of Dr. Beverly “BAM” Crawford and in Washington, D.C., she fellowships at Metropolitan Baptist Church under Dr. H. Beecher Hicks, Jr. She is also a member of the Long Beach Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

About the Book

Have the sins of the mother come upon the daughter?

Jasmine Larson Bush is finally living a drama-free life. She’s left her lying, cheating, stealing stripper days behind and is standing by her husband’s side as the first lady of one of the largest churches in New York City. The Bushes have been blessed with the best of everything—including two lovely children.

But just when Jasmine has committed her life completely to God, her daughter Jacqueline is kidnapped from a mall the day after Thanksgiving. The police and the church community join in the frantic search to find the four-year-old. As the days pass without any sign of her daughter, Jasmine begins to crack under the strain and turns to Brian Lewis, Jacqueline’s biological father, for solace.

Has Jasmine’s past finally caught up to her? Will her daughter be found or will Jasmine pay the ultimate price?

View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/SinsoftheMother.

Visit Victoria online at http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/

2010-06-05T07:42:00.001-07:00

Need a summer read? Love Found Me by Vanessa Richardson, will certainly inspire if not entertain you! Order your copies today. www.gshpublishing.com or amazon.com!

Amazon Reviews

November 17, 2009
By Dream 4 More Book Reviews "Adrienna Turner" (Milwaukee, WI United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Love Found Me (Perfect Paperback)
Vanessa Richardson delivers an electrifying, undeniable love story between two people who do not believe it is happening immediately before their very eyes and their hearts beating at a rapid rate. Their first encounter speaks for itself.

We first meet Michael and his twin brother, Bryan, and see their agape love for one another regardless of their different lifestyles, paths, and personalities. Then, we see Shelia Lawton, who does not want to go back in the house of God with her best friend and colleague Rayna Peterson. These ladies met at college and remained friends since. We see Rayna go from graduating in Political Science/Pre-law major to wanting to become partner at Hudson, Fist, and Hudson law firm. Shelia majored in Sociology is now working as a Domestic Violence Counselor.

Vanessa captures the readers attention from the Prologue, where you do not want to stop reading in one-sitting. I enjoyed reading every character in the book, also seeing love electrifying over the emotions and souls of the characters--where I can picture them in my mind as if it is a TV series on Lifetime. I cannot wait for the sequel. This is a must-read, especially if you love inspirational-suspense (or Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance).

Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienna Turner
5 stars--Wooed Us!

DISCLAIMER: THE REVIEW OF AN ELECTRONIC COPY OF THIS BOOK HAS BEEN RECEIVED BY AUTHOR TO PROVIDE A BOOK REVIEW FREE OF CHARGE ON OUR DREAM 4 MORE REVIEWS. REVIEWS ARE THE OPINIONS OF REVIEWER.

3.0 out of 5 stars Tragedy, Romance, Suspense and Faith, May 5, 2010 By
Wanda B. Campbell "Author and Avid Reader" (San Francisco Bay Area) - See all my reviews. This review is from: Love Found Me (Perfect Paperback)
Ms. Richardson uses creativity to weave an engaging story of love and healing. This is the first book I've read by this author. Love Found Me is the first Christian Fiction novel I've read with Murder and Suspense. The story intrigued me without being predictable.

Although, the author left some question unanswered, I look forward to the next book in the Love Series.

3.0 out of 5 stars Good Read, February 17, 2010
By Melissa A. Ladage - See all my reviews

This review is from: Love Found Me (Perfect Paperback)
This book is a good combination of faith, suspense, and romance! I enjoyed reading it and look forward to the next book in the series.

Please visit me at: www.vanessarichardson.net

And Still I Rise by Maya Angelou

2010-05-25T04:42:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore Maya Angelou. Words can not describe how much so. I remember years ago watching an episode of Showtime at the Apollo-- a show that show cased up-and-coming artists. There was a little girl around my age (ten) at the time. She was performing what I recall at the time, this soul stirring poem. I sat there glued to the television; thirsting for me. Inside I was screaming..." I want to do that. I want to say that poem."

The problem was; I was painfully shy as a child. I had much to say, but very much afraid to say it aloud. Besides, who'd want to listen to me anyways? The mind is a funny thing is it not? To succeed or fail--it takes a made up mind.

I vividly recall something within me stirring to life. It was to be on television, with the hopes of my friends watching me, or to even become famous. It was those words, penetrating in my ten-year-old heart. "Still I Rise. Still I Rise." The little girl's performance was mesmerizing. Now, several years later, it is that, I've never forgotten, that little girl; nor this wonderful poem "Still I Rise", written by Maya Angelou. My mind was made up! I would one day perform this piece, and I did! Oh, the process was not easy, it took bumps in the road, and yep, you've guessed it! A made up mind. :)

Enjoy!

Still I Rise
by Maya Angelou
"Still I Rise"
from AND STILL I RISE by Maya Angelou,
copyright © 1978 by Maya Angelou.
Used by permission of Random House, Inc.

You may write me down in history
With your bitter, twisted lies,
You may trod me in the very dirt
But still, like dust, I'll rise.

Does my sassiness upset you?
Why are you beset with gloom?
'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells
Pumping in my living room.

Just like moons and like suns,
With the certainty of tides,
Just like hopes springing high,
Still I'll rise.

Did you want to see me broken?
Bowed head and lowered eyes?
Shoulders falling down like teardrops,
Weakened by my soulful cries.

Does my haughtiness offend you?
Don't you take it awful hard
'Cause I laugh like I got gold mines
Diggin' in my own back yard.

You may shoot me with your words,
You may cut me with your eyes,
You may kill me with your hatefulness,
But still, like air, I'll rise.

Does my sexiness upset you?
Does it come as a surprise
That I dance like I've got diamonds
At the meeting of my thighs?

Out of the huts of history's shame
I rise
Up from a past that's rooted in pain
I rise
I'm a black ocean, leaping and wide,
Welling and swelling I bear in the tide.
Leaving behind nights of terror and fear
I rise
Into a daybreak that's wondrously clear
I rise
Bringing the gifts my ancestors gave,
I am the dream and the hope of the slave.
I rise
I rise
I rise.

© Maya Angelou, 1978.

Michael Cogdill Author of She-Rain: A Story of Hope

2010-05-20T20:34:00.000-07:00

Michael Cogdill is blessed as one of the most honored television storytellers in America. His cache of awards includes 24 Emmy's and the National Edward R. Murrow for a broad range of achievement, from live reporting to long-form storytelling. His work proves the power a message can hold when it reaches the human heart. Michael’s television credits as a writer/performer include CNN, CNBC, MSNBC, and The Today Show.

His interview credits are about as varied as you can get: The Reverend Billy Graham, Dr. Mehmet Oz, Dr. Henry Kissinger, Abby Hoffman, Senator Hillary Clinton, Senator John McCain, Howard K. Smith, James Brown, and countless eminent members of Congress along with other key news makers around the country. His coverage credits include Presidents and Vice Presidents of the United States and major figures in entertainment

Richardson: Hello Michael, thanks for chatting with me. Please tell us about She-Rain and the reception it has received so far.

Cogdill: We're floored by the reception thus far. Putting out a book is a daunting risk. I poured so much of my heart into She-Rain and the people within it, and I must confess some trembling at what could have come sailing back at me from readers. To have reviewers and other readers hail it as a classic, a must-read, couldn't-put-it-down, sentenced-me-to-an-all-nighter sort of book is thrilling.

Richardson: Very impressive! How long did it take for you to write She-Rain? I love the title by the way!

Cogdill: She-Rain occupied ten years of my life, and every moment I spent it its creation was a joy. I anchor the late news on an NBC affiliate, allowing She-Rain to become my after-work world of solace. There's a lot of 4:30 am in that book's writing!

Richardson: Michael you are 24-time Emmy-winning television journalist. Your novel, She-Rain, contains two narrative threads dedicated to the memory of Savannah. Were there any heavy research required to write She-Rain?

Cogdill: Some research, but nothing that sent me venturing into the moldy pages. The book's origins grew out of old family stories. I simply let those old tales seed my imagination.

Richardson: Michael, what do you want readers to take away from your book?

Cogdill: I want them entertained first. Books require the most precious capital we get to spend in this life -- our time. If you're not entertained, you've expended breath and time you'll never get back. Beyond this, I long to have readers linger in the glow of extravagant love. The love triangle in She-Rain is unlike any other ever written. It proves human hearts -- especially those who've been dragged through some dark times -- are capable of stunning greatness. Readers who take away a sense of our deeply human capacity to rise far beyond what seeks to drag us down will join in the joy I took in writing She-Rain. It takes on racism, classism, religious fundamentalism and the dross of living down to low expectations. May each reader of She-Rain be entertained and, in a lasting way, inspired.

Richardson: Inspiration is what motivates and aspires me! So, She-Rain, is right up my alley. Michael, what have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

Cogdill: I've discovered that rejections truly can be God's protections. In the early going, agents didn't get it. Now, I have a major New York agent in love with it and the idea of another novel I have in store. To give up is to cheat ourselves out of the beauty that awaits us. She-Rain taught me never, ever, ever give up.

Richardson: Let's discuss rejection (s) shall we? How do/did you handle rejection (s)?

Cogdill: Get mad, get over it, keep going. To all who face rejection, allow yourself to lean into it, to see fully what motivates it and what it has to teach you, then write what you deem beautiful, entertaining and worthy of your legacy!

Richardson: What advice would you offer aspiring authors?

Cogdill: Write for beauty in an active language you celebrate as a music of your heart. If critics -- especially academics -- try to demand that you adopt their styles or be condemned as no good, shed them into the dust of your creative feet. The best teachers build up your unique voice. A few out there -- not so many, after all -- will seek to tear you down to their level. Don't go!

Richardson: Wonderfully stated and humbly received. Are there any forth coming projections readers should be made aware of? How can readers contact you?

Cogdill: I'm working on a Vietnam-era novel entitled The Belles of Honeysuckle Road -- and it'll carry similar Southern themes found in She-Rain. My wife, Jill, and I have also put out an heirloom-quality children's title in hard cover, Cracker the Crab and the Sideways Afternoon, and we plan another children's title focused on giving hope amid death and loss. We call that one Where Did Joe Go? I'm also working on a non-fiction piece whose working title is Raise the Haze. All this amid my work in television. It's a full life.

Richardson: Sounds like one to watch out for! Michael, thank you for chatting with me. As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

Cogdill: You are a joy!! Wishes of peace and beauty to you and your group, always!!
Michael

She-Rain: A Story of Hope
http://she-rain.blogspot.com/

Celebrating Phenomenal Women: Phenomenal Author Bernice L. McFadden

2010-05-06T05:46:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL OUR PHENOMENAL WOMEN!

The seeming inevitability of cruel fate juxtaposes the triumph of the spirit in this remarkably rich and powerful novel, Glorious. Bernice McFadden's fully realized characters are complicated, imperfect beings, but if ever a character were worthy of love and honor, it is her Easter Bartlett. This very American story is fascinating; it is also heartbreaking, thought-provoking, and beautifully written."—Binnie Kirshenbaum, author of The Scenic Route

"Riveting. . . . I am as impressed by its structural strength as by the searing and expertly imagined scenes.”—Toni Morrison, on The Warmest December

Glorious is set against the backdrops of the Jim Crow South, the Harlem Renaissance, and the civil rights era. Blending the truth of American history with the fruits of Bernice L. McFadden’s rich imagination, this is the story of Easter Venetta Bartlett, a fictional Harlem Renaissance writer whose tumultuous path to success, ruin, and revival offers a candid portrait of the American experience in all its beauty and cruelty.

Glorious is ultimately an audacious exploration into the nature of self-hatred, love, possession, ego, betrayal, and, finally, redemption.

Bernice L. McFadden is the author of six critically acclaimed novels, including the classic Sugar and Nowhere Is a Place, which was a Washington Post best fiction title for 2006. She is a two-time Hurston/Wright Legacy Award finalist, as well as the recipient of two fiction honors from the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA). McFadden lives in Brooklyn, New York, where she is working on her next novel.

Join us as we celebrate the year of phenomenal woman! We will acknowledge her commitments and accomplishments! My special guest will be author Bernice L. McFadden. Join us as we discuss her latest release, Glorious.

Listen to The Certain Ones on Blog Talk Radio

Saturday, May 8th, 2010 6:00pm.
Call-in Number: (917) 932-1607

Constellation Chronicles Author Vincent Lowry

2010-04-25T19:31:00.001-07:00

In addition to Constellation Chronicles, Vincent Lowry has published several poems and short stories in a wide array of magazines. He was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and currently lives in Los Angeles with his wife and son.

His blog, Rate My Book Video, invites authors from all genres to post links to their book videos/trailers so viewers can provide feedback. Dozens of writers have contributed to the site, making it one of the largest forums for viral book video marketing.

Vincent Lowry is the author of Constellation Chronicles, the #1 tagged book on Amazon's Fiction Community. He was born in Albuquerque, N.M., and currently lives in Los Angeles with his wife and son.

Vincent also runs a blog http://ratemybookvideo.wordpress.com that encourages new authors to post their book trailers/videos for feedback from viewers. He also manages a Goodreads group (http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/2698...) that connects readers with authors.

V. Richardson: Please tell us about your novel, Constellation Chronicles. What would like for readers to take away from this read?

V. Lowry: Perhaps the best way to tell you about my novel is to give the book's synopsis:

A blinding fireball rips across the night sky and slams into a field in the remote town of Rigel, New Mexico. Glenn Sawyer, a broke and disillusioned 18-year-old, witnesses and investigates the crash, finding a surreal craft and an even stranger monkey-like creature named Paako, who secretly follows him home and stirs up trouble. As Glenn captures Paako and attempts to return her to the crash site, he discovers unexpected company, and learns that his remarkable journey--filled with adventure, evil, and a cast of captivating characters--has only just begun. I would like readers to simply escape their day-to-day routine for a while. If the book achieves this goal, then I'll be happy.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

V. Lowry: I've discovered that marketing takes as much work as writing. If you want to succeed as an author, it's not enough to simply write the book and then kick back and expect people to find it. As with writing, you have to put in the effort.

V. Richardson: You have a group on Goodreads, a social and networking site, what is about and how and where can readers and authors join?

V. Lowry: My group on Goodreads is called Goodreads Author/Readers: http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/2698...
It’s about bringing authors and readers together in one forum to discuss books, poetry, and short stories. It’s fairly new, but so far it has some 300 members.

I also run a blog that invites authors to post their book videos/trailers for viewers to see and rate: http://ratemybookvideo.wordpress.com/
Close to a hundred authors have contributed to the site, making it one of the largest forums dedicated to viral book video marketing. It's a great way to sit back and preview novels.

V.Richardson: What advice would you offer aspiring authors?

V. Lowry: The best advice I can offer is to keep reading and writing. If you do both of these things on a consistent basis, you’re bound to get better at your craft. It might take years of rejection, and it might be difficult at times, but persistence is the only way to succeed.

V. Richardson: Are there any forth coming projects readers should look forward from you?

V. Lowry:Yes, about a year or two down the road, my readers can expect the next installment in the Constellation Chronicles series—Taurus. I also hope to republish a few short stories of mine that appeared in ezines and local magazines.

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

V. Lowry:The best way is by befriending me on Goodreads (search for Constellation Chronicles to find my name) and sending a friend request. We can then keep in contact via email.

V. Richardson: Thank you Vincent for such an informative interview. As always in closing, keep inspiring as you aspire!

Constellation Chronicles: The Lost Civilization of Aries Video Trailer

2010-03-30T01:45:00.000-07:00

Poet and Author Acholam Birago

April National Poetry Month! This is a time to celebrate poets and their poetry. Through out the month of April, numerous events are held. It is wonderful way to involve youths in a poetic activities.

Inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, National Poetry Month is now held every April, when publishers, booksellers, literary organizations, libraries, schools and poets around the country band together to celebrate poetry and its vital place in American culture. Thousands of businesses and non-profit organizations participate through readings, festivals, book displays, workshops, and other events.

http://www.poets.org/page.php/prmID/41

Join me on my online Radio Blog Talk Show! Yes, The Certain Ones now has a home on the air waves! Our forthcoming segment is: Poetic Justice.

We will be celebrating National Poetry Month in the Month of April- with the fiercest inspirational and motivational poet and author Acholam Birago. Stage name: Poetic.Soul.Provider. You do not want to miss this enchanting evening of soul stirring and thought provoking conversation!

http://www.poeticsoulprovider.com/

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/thecertainones/2010/04/21/celebrating-national-poetry-month-poetic-justice

Listen to The Certain Ones on Blog Talk Radio

Celebrating Women in Ministry Blog Tour with author Vanessa Miller

2010-03-25T04:27:00.000-07:00

We invite you this week to highlight your favorite FEMALE MINISTER in the comment section below. Participants will be placed in a drawing for an autographed copy of Yesterday’s Promise by Vanessa Miller and a $25 Gift Card.

About the Book
Melinda Johnson has always felt called to ministry. So, when her father, Bishop Langston Johnson, decides to step down after thirty years of leadership at Omega Christian Center, it seems only natural for her to take his place. But Bishop Johnson feels led by a God who has other things in mind, and to succeed him, he appoints Steven Marks-a man who is opposed to female pastors, not to mention the fact that he is Melinda’s ex-fiancé.

Feeling defeated, Melinda nevertheless maintains her position as the church’s Missions and Community Outreach Director. Frequent interaction with the new bishop incites bitter sparring-and rekindles long-suppressed attraction, which grows only stronger when Melinda develops a relationship with Steven’s precious daughter, Brianna, who’s still struggling with the death of her mother.

Can Steven and Melinda set aside past pains, forgive each other, and learn to love again? Or will their opposing positions regarding women preachers keep them forever at odds?

About the Author
Vanessa Miller of Dayton , Ohio is an Essence best-selling author, playwright, and motivational speaker. Her stage productions include: Get You Some Business, Don’t Turn Your Back on God, and Can’t You Hear Them Crying and Abundant Rain. To date, Vanessa has written the Rain Series and the Storm Series. The books in the Rain Series are: Former Rain , Abundant Rain, and Latter Rain. The books in the Storm Series are: Rain Storm and Through The Storm . These books have received rave reviews, winning Best Christian Fiction Awards and topping numerous Bestseller’s lists.

Yesterday’s Promise is the first book of a series entitled, Second Chance of Love. Whitaker House plans to release the next two books in October 2010 and January 2011. Visit her online at www.VanessaMiller.com.

Tell Us About Your Favorite Female Minister
View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/WomeninMinistry.

Yesterday's Promise by Vanessa Miller (Excerpt)

Yesterday's Promise Book Trailer

Tell Us About Your Favorite Female Minister

My Favorite Female Preacher:
Rosa Meredith, of Deliverance Victory Temple Ministries in NC, has been called the revelator because God has gifted her with revelation involving powerful analogies as she expound the word of God. She teaches life impacting sermons such as “What make you do what you do?” she is pastor, preacher and teacher. Pastor Meredith’s belief’s are based on the sound doctrine of Jesus Christ. Pastor Meredith preaches toward resurrecting the lost and instructing them how to be free in Christ and how to stay free and how to obtain victory in diverse circumstances.

Mystery and Thriller Author DK Gaston

2010-03-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

D K Gaston was born in Detroit, Michigan. He left Michigan as a young adult to serve in the U S Army from 1985 to 1990. During his stint in the military, he traveled overseas to Korea, Japan, Mexico and Australia. After leaving the Army, D K earned his Bachelor degree at Detroit College of Business in Computer Information Science.

He worked as a janitor, security guard, computer instructor, word processor, and computer technician before centering his career in computer networking. Since then, he'd earned two Masters Degrees from the University of Phoenix in Technology Management and Business Administration.

D K Gaston is the author of XIII, The Friday House and Lost Hours. He is a husband and father, residing in Michigan. He is currently working on his next novel.

Richardson: Hello D K! Thanks for chatting with me. Please tell readers about yourself.

Gaston: I'm an author. I write in several different genres and currently have three published novels: XIII, Lost Hours & The Friday House.

Richardson: Have you always known that you would write Mystery & Thrillers? Who are some mystery writers that influenced you?

Gaston: I've always been a big mystery and thriller fan. But, no, I originally planned on writing comic books when I was younger. It wasn't until I was much older that I considered mysteries and thrillers. I would have to say that it was Dean Koontz who inspired me to write. I read Midnight and fell in love with his writing style.

Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from your novels?

Gaston: I really want to entertain the readers. I want my books to be that shot of caffeine that launches a person's morning and to keep them going all day.

Richardson: D K, you donated half the royalties from the sales of “The Friday House” to the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Tell us how did that come about?

Gaston: Unfortunately, it did not generate any hard sells. I suspect the bad economy had a lot to do with that. I don't plan on giving up helping charities with sales of my books. Once the economy picks up, I'll start again, hopefully with better success in the future. I did appreciate all the people who tried to make others aware of what I was doing by posting on their blogs.

Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

Gaston: That a little patience goes a long way. I also learned that authors love to help other authors on his or her journey.

Richardson: There is always a story behind the glory. How do/did you handle rejection (s)?

Gaston: Opinions are subjective; some will love my stories while others just won't get it. I understand that readers, reviewers, agents and publishers have varying taste, so I listen to them, evaluate their comments and hopefully improve upon my work. Authors have to have a tough skin in the writing business.

Richardson: What advice would you offer aspiring authors?

Gaston: Keep writing and don't stop writing until you finish your first draft. Once the draft is complete, step away from your book for a month and then come back and begins your edits/rewrite.

Richardson: How can readers contact you?

Gaston: The future belongs to eBooks. There will always be a great demand for paper edition books, but be aware that a growing number of young readers are jumping on emerging technologies.

I can be contacted at: author_dkgaston@yahoo.com

Richardson: D K, thank you for chatting with me. As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire.

Gaston: Thank you for this interview. I had a lot of fun answering your great questions.

D K Gaston
www.dkgaston.com
XIII, April 2007
Lost Hours, October 2007
The Friday House 2008

FYI
The Friday House - second edition
A second edition of The Friday House is now available at:

https://www.createspace.com/3344369

Short description:

Without warning or explanation, prominent Americans are carrying out horrendous crimes against the government. FBI Special Agent Jamaica Kurtz is assigned to profile these assassins. All the killers have one thing in common, the Friday House Orphanage. What secrets does this institution hold and will Jamaica Kurtz find the truth in time to stop more attacks?

25 Miles to Touching the Heart of God Author Christel Lim

2010-03-11T17:29:00.000-08:00

Christel's first book "25 Miles to Touching the Heart of God" is an easy-to-read book that simplifies profound and eternal concepts for teens and people who are searching for answers. She weaves anecdotes and her own experiences into her truthful chapters, allowing readers to relate to her and understand her message better. If you have always wondered about God and how to get closer to Him, this is the book for you! Raise the level of your relationship with your Creator today

V. Richardson: Hi Christel! Thank you for chatting with me Congratulations! You have just released your latest book, 25 Mile to Touching the Heart of God. What is the synopsis of 25 Miles to Touching the Heart of God?

C. Lim: It’s actually a personal journey I took to search after God. And it’s broken down into 25 Miles. Most people know that there is a ‘God’, but I needed to know who He is, not just the mere fact that He existed. I didn’t want a head knowledge class on ‘God’; I wanted a relationship with Him, something like a friendship. I learned a lot about God, a little more about His character, and there were moments when I felt like I felt His heartbeat. I think when you really seek after God; what you’re actually seeking for, is His heart.

There were many times when, if not most, when I honestly felt that in that moment in time, I felt in sync with God. I felt His heart for people. God definitely taught me when I was on this journey with Him and so, 25 Miles to Touching the Heart of God contains those ‘lessons’ which I like to call, ‘Miles’, that I learnt and it just sank into me. It changed me. Oh, one thing about God, He’s funny.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from this book?

C. Lim: Travelling these 25 miles really enriched my life, it changed my thinking, and it was enlightening. I just wanted people to know that they could have a relationship with God too! It isn’t as scary as what people might make it out to be. I wanted them to know that God has been waiting outside their door for a long time.

He wants to have a relationship with them. Really, he does. He wants them to know all about Him. He already knows all about you, but you’ll get to know more about yourself as you get closer to God because God is the only one who knows you better than yourself.

V. Richardson: How do/did you deal with rejection (s)?

C. Lim: First of all, I believe, I’m a person of destiny, and destiny as Jill Austin says, is a process. My destiny started the day I was born. Everything that happens in my life comes with a reason. There are things in life, like rejection, which happens to every person, but I believe for me personally, it just means that God closed that door because of a reason.

It could be that God has something better in stored for me or maybe I wasn’t ready for that. I made a decision that I only want to walk in God’s perfect will, not permissive will. And if that isn’t right for me, I tell God, please don’t let that door open. Most people see rejection, as rejection itself. I see it as rejection because as that point in time, that wasn’t in line with what God intended for me. But I have to say, that to be in God’s perfect will, you have to walk right with God in your relationship with Him.

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

C. Lim I discovered that I needed to be able to ‘wait it out’. In a world where everything is done fast, the book business is one of the slowest industries! It takes about a year for one’s book to be ready once you sign the publishing contract. I needed to be able to be steadfast. Personally, I get bored easily. And on this journey, I learnt a bit more on following through.

I was very blessed because once I was done with my manuscript; the first publisher that I approached offered me a contract. So technically, I didn’t experience any rejection with respect to publishing this book. I knew that what I wrote was inspiration from God, so I told God that if it was in line with His perfect will, please Tate Publishing sign me on. Tate Publishing is a Christian Publisher too, that’s why I approached them first. I have to add that I had not been exposed to the book business in any way. I didn’t know anything at all. But you don’t need to when you’ve got God as a friend. He’s by my side all the way. Even if I don’t know how, He does, and that is all I need.

I think, when you only desire God’s perfect will for your life, He’ll lead you to the right door and you don’t experience as much rejection as others do.

V. Richardson: Are there any forthcoming projects readers should be made aware of?

C. Lim:I don’t have any projects that I’m working on at the moment. But I know there will be. I’m eager to receive inspiration from God again. I always am. I love it. God’s wisdom is just awesome! I want to write again. I am hoping to write a novel. I would like to cross into another genre. I like writing my own poetry too.

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

C/ Lim: There are so many ways! There is Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Youtube or they could just email me I guess. I also have an address for snail mail, which by the way, I love. I love receiving snail mail. I don’t know why. But I have to say, I’m new at Goodreads and Twitter, so I’m still trying to figure my way around. But I’ll get there. And Youtube for that matter too. Alright, I’m just new at this whole thing.

The links:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/CHRISTEL-L...

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/AuthorChristelLim...

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/Author_Christel

My email address: chlsj_8948@hotmail.com

V. Richardson: Christel, thank you so very much for sharing your testimony with me. It was delightful connecting with you! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire!

My Mother's Child Blog Tour Dawn Abrams

2010-03-03T23:48:00.000-08:00

Dwan Abrams is a full-time novelist, freelance editor, and publisher. She’s the best-selling author of My Mother’s Child (the sequel to Divorcing the Devil), Married Strangers, Divorcing the Devil, Only True Love Waits, and The Scream Within. She’s the founder, publisher, and editorial director of Nevaeh Publishing, LLC a small press independent publishing house. She’s currently signed to Urban Christian, an imprint of Urban Books/Kensington. Her sixth novel, the second book in the Married Series, is set to hit national bookshelves in 2011.

About the Book
Lyric Stokes lives, by most standards, a charmed life. Married to Michael Stokes, a prominent heart surgeon, she has financial security and lives in the lap of luxury. All is not perfect, though. Lyric feels inadequate because she gave birth to a daughter, rather than the son that her husband so desperately wanted.

After an unexpected turn of events, Lyric discovers that she’s pregnant again, but now she has to decide whether she even wants to keep the child she has longed for. She seeks solace in her church, where her daughter also feels at home; but they can’t get Michael to join them. Disagreeing with organized religion, he has put his job before all else, including God. The distance between the couple grows further every day.
Nigel Fredericks has a history of stalking women. He’s been accused, but never convicted. Now he’s set his sights on Lyric. She’s at a low point in her life, and Nigel knows just how to take advantage of that vulnerability. Lyric’s life is turned upside down; Nigel is like a cancer eating away at her mental stability, her marriage, and ultimately, her life. Will Michael reevaluate his priorities and his faith in time to save his family?

Listen to an excerpt from My Mother’s Child by Dwan Abrams

Visit Dwan online at http://dwanabrams.com.

View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/MyMothersChild

Fifteen Years Blog Tour With Kendra Norman Bellamy

2010-02-25T03:20:00.001-08:00

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
KENDRA NORMAN-BELLAMY is a national best-selling author and the founder of KNB Publications LLC. She is the organizer of Visions in Print, an Atlanta-based national organization for faith-based writers, and The Writer’s Hut, an online fellowship for African American Writers. She is the founder of Cruisin’ For Christ, a groundbreaking at-sea ministry that celebrates writing, gospel music and other God-glorifying arts, and also serves as a motivational speaker.

A native of West Palm Beach, Florida, Kendra currently resides in Stone Mountain, George with her family. For more information, visit http://www.knb-publications.com/.

ABOUT THE BOOK
Josiah Tucker, the son of a substance dependent and neglectful mother, spent most of his childhood years in the custody of the State, living in foster homes throughout Atlanta, Georgia. At the age of fourteen, he was taken from the foster family that he had grown to love, the Smiths, and returned to his negligent birth mother. Enduring the hardships faced while living with his birth mother JT manages to makes something of his life. However, fifteen years after being taken from the Smiths and at the peak of success, he finds himself feeling empty and at his lowest. When he decides to reconnect with the Smiths, JT finds his faith in God renewed and discovers his attraction to his foster sister.

Book Review
It has been awhile since; I've felt such a literary-spiritual connection! There are talents and then there are gifts. God has blessed Kendra with both! Kendra penned a powerfully detailed, thought provoking, and soul searching, novel.

In Fifteen Years, we are introduced to Josiah (JT) Tucker. On the surface, he appears to have it all. E.g., a wonderful job and great friends! But, there is no peace within him. At a young age, a personal tragedy alters the way, JT feels, and view things in life. Over the years, JT goes through life; almost existing and not living. In a unique way, JT will find himself dealing with his past trauma, thus allowing healing to take place. I love the healing process, Kendra illustrates through JT. I too, loved JT’s, staid faith and how he stayed committed to his morals, despite negative influences that surrounded him--such as an drug addict mother, and no father figure. In the end, it is about the decisions that we make in life.

5 stars!

View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/FifteenYearsBlogTour.

Dreams That Won't Let Go Blog Tour & Giveaway

2010-02-16T22:05:00.000-08:00

Dreams That Won’t Let Go GIVEAWAY!

WIN a set of signed books from the Jubilant Soul Series AND a free one-hour session with Helena Nyman, an executive coach. Answer the following question in the comment section to be eligible for the giveaway. What dreams are simmering in your heart and waiting to be birthed?

About the Book

Indigo Burns is excited. Her wedding preparations to the man of her dreams are underway, her photography career is a success, and her family seems to be doing better than ever—all except her brother Reuben, who nobody has seen in years. But that’s about to change. When Reuben decides to move back home to Jubilant, Texas, he hopes to find healing with his sisters. But Indigo isn’t so sure their relationship can be mended. And when younger sister Yasmin makes a life-altering choice, it seems like only a miracle can put the Burns family back together. Will these siblings – and the rest of their family - ever be able to love unconditionally and release each other to live their dreams?

Meet Reuben Burns
Reuben stood in the center of the dining room, squirming like an awkward teenager put on display for his parents’ friends. Mama’s effusive praise made him want to hitchhike to Washington State.

She had been chattering nonstop about his new job in the Jubilant mayor’s office since Aunt Melba arrived an hour ago. When Rachelle and Gabe walked in, she shared the details again.

Mama had insisted on the last-minute gathering after deciding that Reuben’s news was worth celebrating.

“Mayor Henning met Reuben at Melba’s Christmas party last December and was really impressed,” Mama said. This time she was telling the story to Indigo’s fiancé, Max. He had arrived separately from Indigo a few minutes earlier, after wrapping up a photo shoot at a downtown business function.

Reuben fixed his smile. Didn’t Mama remember that Max had attended that party too and had witnessed the connection between the two men?

“Reuben told the mayor that he might want to move back to Jubilant, and they began talking privately about Reuben joining his team,” she said. “Mayor Henning created this new position based on Reuben’s skill set. Basically, Reuben will be getting all of the city’s computer systems updated, right, son?”

Mama raised a questioning eyebrow while everyone turned to listen. If he weren’t so tense, Reuben would have laughed at her attempts to describe his new job in layman’s terms.

“That’s about right. I’ll be overseeing an upgrade of the computers in City Hall and then getting the system there to ‘talk’ to the computer systems in other city agencies, so that there’s more efficient functioning across the board. It’s almost like building a new bridge but still using the old bridge until the new one is ready.

For a while, you have two bridges standing side by side. When the new one is sturdy enough, you have to build an off ramp from the old one onto the new one, without people noticing much difference in their efforts to cross from one side to the other.

“After that project’s finished, I’ll draft a strategic plan for revamping internal communications for city employees and improving citizens’ access to online services and products.”

Aunt Melba leaned toward Reuben and hugged his neck.

“Congratulations, nephew,” she said. “Sounds like an important job, but it’s not quite as exciting as working for Amazon.com is it? You sure you’re ready for small-town life again?”

Mama glared at her sister. “Of course he is, Melba. Besides, what’s more important than being with your family?”

Mama approached Reuben and steered him to a chair on the left side of the long, cherry table. “Sit here, between your sisters.”

She motioned for Indigo and Yasmin to fill the seats that flanked him. Yasmin rolled her eyes and trudged to her designated spot.

Indigo leaned against the cherrywood buffet and folded her arms. She remained expressionless, but Reuben knew an attitude when he saw one. Max pulled Indigo toward the table and led her to the chair on Reuben’s right. He sat on the other side of Indigo and continued to hold her hand under the table.

Now that Mama had everyone positioned where she wished—her three children and Max on one side of the table and her sister Melba, niece Rachelle, and Rachelle’s husband Gabe on the other—she beamed.

“Wait until I tell your uncle Herbert.” Mama glanced at Rachelle.

“You haven’t called your father, have you? I want to be the first to let my brother know that my baby’s moving back home.”

Reuben saw Gabe nudge Rachelle with his elbow.

“I wouldn’t dare steal your thunder, Aunt Irene,” Rachelle said, struggling to keep from laughing. “I know how excited you are.”

“Everybody does!” Indigo said in a lighthearted tone accompanied by a wide, plastic smileReuben hadn’t spent much time with her during his return trips over the past four years, despite his efforts, but he knew Indigo well enough now to recognize the frustration that had reared its head earlier in the day, during lunch.

He leaned toward her, prepared to call her on it. But Aunt Melba chimed in first, with a raised eyebrow.

About the Author
Stacy Hawkins Adams is a nationally-published, award-winning author and speaker. Her contemporary women’s fiction novels are filled with social themes and spiritual quests that take readers on journeys into their own souls.

She holds a degree in journalism and served as a newspaper reporter for more than a decade before turning her full attention to penning books, speaking professionally and writing freelance articles. Stacy lives in a suburb of Richmond, Virginia with her husband and two young children.

Visit Stacy online at
http://www.stacyhawkinsadams.com/.
http://bit.ly/DreamsThatWontLetGo.

Author of Prodigal Zaria Garrison

2010-02-10T08:03:00.000-08:00

Christian Author Zaria Garrison

Zaria Garrison was born and raised in Greenville County, SC. She began writing as a teen-ager. In 2005 her first novel Baring it All was published by Publish America under her birth name Gena L. Garrison.

However as she continued writing she felt she could no longer write stories that involved explicit sex and violence. She could only write what God told her to write. God gave her stories of everyday people who have faults, struggles, and sometimes pain but they continue to trust in God to get them through. With God’s guidance a new author was born.

Following her transformation as he did with Saul, God gave her a new name Zaria, which means new beginnings. Zaria is also part owner and staff writer for EKG Literary magazine. An online magazine dedicated to being the pulse of the literary community. It can be read online at www.ekgliterarymag.com

V. Richardson: You have released your latest book, Prodigal. How did this story come about and how long did it take for you to write it?

Z. Garrison: Prodigal is a modern day tale of the Prodigal son. I decided it would be interesting to explore this story and to examine the other sibling. From beginning to end it took approximate three months. Of course after that I spent time editing, and re-writing before the final product was completed.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from Prodigal?

Z. Garrison: The theme is forgiveness. I would like for readers to walk away feeling entertained by this story, but also understanding the importance of forgiveness in all of our relationships.

V. Richardson: I love connecting with author’s who have interesting and inspirational messages to share both in their books and about their lives. You are now writing under a different genre. There is an interesting reason for this. Please share that reason with us.

Z. Garrison: My writing career began with secular writing with my first novel Baring it all. It was an erotic murder mystery. It won some awards and was well reviewed and received. However God let me know that he needed me to use my talent for writing to glorify him. As I grew as a writer I was also growing as a Christian and the graphic sex and violence could not longer be a part of what I was writing. I feel my writing is still interesting and exciting, but now it's glorifies God, and he is pleased.

V. Richardson: Life is a journey and on its path we encounter many experiences, good and bad. With each experience there are lessons of self-discovery. What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?

Z. Garrison: I discovered that I with God's help, all things are possible. There were people who said I'd lose fans by switching genres, but God took care of that. Others said it was impossible to sign with a publisher unless I found an agent; God took care of that also. While waiting for Prodigal to be released I lost my job and I honestly felt there was no way I could promote Prodigal without money. God has taken care of that as well. So I truly believe and know that with him, all things are possible.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the glory. How do/did you handle rejection (s)?
Z. Garrison: I am one of those few authors who have been blessed not to have a stack of rejection letters. I queried 1 publisher and did not receive a response. I later learned it was because the company went under. Then I queried my current publisher, and was accepted. So at this point I have not had to handle too much rejection.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

Z.Garrison: I think in order to become a great writer you must first be an avid reader. So my advice to aspiring writers is to read. Read books, magazines, and newspapers. Read in different genres and read things that you may not normally pick up.

Z. Garrison: My pet peeve is authors who say they don't read. I find that absolutely ridiculous. The arrogance of a person who expects readers to pick up their books, but they will not pick up and read anyone's book is amazing to me. I've never met a singer who said they never listened to music, so anyone who wants to be a writer needs to be a reader as well.

V.Richardson: Great point and advice. A skill or talent must be sharpened consistently and continually. How can readers contact you?

Z. Garrison: They can reach me online at zariagarrison.com, or by email at zaria@zariagarrison.com. I also am co-owner and staff writer of EKG Literary magazine. They can read my articles and thoughts there as well.

V. Richardson: Zaria, thank you so very much
for chatting and sharing with me! As always in closing, continue to inspire as you
aspire.

Z. Garrison: Thank you so much for the opportunity. Please be sure to contact me if there is anything I or EKG magazine can do to assist you in the future.

V. Richardson: You bet!

Prodigal Book Trailer

Beautiful Ugly Blog Tour

2010-01-28T00:00:00.000-08:00

Win an autographed copy of
Beautiful Ugly by Shelia Lipsey
See contest details below.

About Beautiful Ugly: Three friends with different struggles rely on God and each other to get by. Layla Hobbs has so much to offer, including a beautiful singing voice, but obesity and low self-esteem hold her back from life and finding true love. Envy Wilson has always been Layla’s backbone. But what about her own dark secrets? She won’t share them with anyone, and it’s starting to eat away at her from the inside. And then there’s Kacie Mayweather. Stricken with cerebral palsy, she’s had her share of men—five baby daddies for six children, in fact. But she’s never had one man to call her own. They’ll need plenty of faith and support from each other to see the real beauty that lies within each one of them and fulfill their deepest desires at last.

My Book Review
In Beautiful Ugly, Sheila Lipsey delivers a soul searching, thought provoking, and inspirational story.

Kacie Mayweather is a single mother of six who finds herself pregnant again. Kacie’s desire to find love and be loved leads her to doing less than savory things. Hurt can make a person do things that they normally would not do.

Envy Wilson is beautiful and successful. Yet a secret from her past makes her feel anything but beautiful. It is hard to feel beautiful; and be accepting of true love, when one feels ugly on the inside.

Layla Hobbs has an issue with her weight. She struggles to find strength to mentally change her negative way of thinking, that she could never lose weight, nor be beautiful. An unexpected tragedy will cause a change both in Layla’s body, mind, and soul.

Sheila Lipsey captured the essence of true friendship in Beautiful Ugly; true friendship endures the testing of time, trials, and truths! A true friend with decorum and affection--- tells it like it is. The ladies will deal with their insecurities-- and each other; while keeping God in the midst of them. This was a heartfelt and inspirational read; the ending had me wanting more. This was a delightful read!

Win an autographed copy of Beautiful Ugly by Shelia Lipsey!

Shelia Lipsey is the author of three other Christian Fiction novels. The trivia question below is from one of those novels. Leave your response to the trivia question below in the comment section.

What kind of job did Chandler Larson pretend to have? Tell us the title of the book.

About the Author : Author Shelia E. Lipsey is a multi-award winning author. Her novels are available at most bookstores nationwide as well as online. Lipsey’s books have been called gripping, life-altering, memorable and realistic. Lipsey was recently awarded the 2009 Top Shelf Award for Beautiful Ugly by Black Pearls Magazine. She also won 2009 Shades of Romance Readers’ Choice Awards for My Son’s Wife in the following categories: Author of the Year, Christian fiction Book of the Year, Christian Romance of the Year, Best Book Cover of the Year, Best Fiction Book of the Year, among several other awards for her novels, Into Each Life and Sinsatiable. Lipsey is the proud mother of two sons and the grandmother of three blessed young men. She is president of UCHisGloryBookClub.net, founder of Living Your Dreams Now a non-profit organization and MAAW (Memphis African American Writers).

Read an excerpt and check the tour schedule at http://bit.ly/BeautifulUgly

For more information, visit www.shelialipsey.com.

=========================================================
Watch the Book Trailer

Author Shalonda "Treasure" Williams

2010-01-20T16:52:00.001-08:00

Author Shalonda "Treasure" Williams

Savannah Georgia native Shalonda "Treasure" Williams has decided to break out. As the youngest of eleven siblings, Shalonda determines to bring a message of encouragement and motivation. Living life with a cap of purpose to help push others into the "GO" (Get Over) position.

Her desire and love is to see others smiling because they feel empowered to move forward knowing that they mean a great deal to their Maker. With her books "Back to the Basics" and "A Heart's Thoughts" in her Love Walk Meditations Series, she has begun that journey. In her upcoming books you will be challenged to believe in you. You will realize that no matter where you thrive that you are great right there. You will be uplifted to the 'GO' position. Encouraged to Get Over so that you can Get On with life. As a motivator, Shalonda is here to tell you that greatness comes in all shapes, sizes, colors, sexes, etc.

V. Richardson: Hi Shalonda! Thank you for chatting with me today!

S. Williams: Hello to you Vanessa. I am most grateful and humbled to be chatting with you as well.

V. Richardson: You have several inspirational novels. Of them which one has had the most impact in your life and that of your readers?

S. Williams: The book that has had the most impact on me would be “PurposeFull You”. It's the message behind it. It's very common for people to believe less of their purpose because of the labels & opinions of family, friends & society as a whole. I've come to believe more in my divine purpose and wanted to share my heart with others in hopes that they wouldn't feel alone. Though this book is compact it holds much motivation. That's my goal.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from your books?

S. Williams: From all of my writings I would like for them to know that they are never by themselves in a hard place. Specifically from “PurposeFull You” I would like them to get that no matter the picture that is painted, there is purpose in what may be labeled as the “least” position. Take from this book that the camera person's position is just as purposed and important as the new's anchors job. If we let the truth be told, who would see the anchor person without the camera person being on their post.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the glory. How do/did you handle rejection (s)?

S. Williams: I've never been really good with rejection. I've watched others take it like a pro and keep going, not taking any of it personally. Since I've been writing however, my greatest rejection showed its face in the form of lack of support from those I care for. It was like a blow to my heart. After the hurt from that I realized that I had to “woman up”; stand with backbone. Once I did that I knew that any further rejection that comes with being an author, speaker or in life period could be taken standing up with my faith in tact. My faith says that even rejection happens for a purpose.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to those aspiring authors?

S. Williams: Go with your heart. If you feel it and the desire is strong you won't regret the journey. Be peaceful and be of good courage because what you have inside of you is for someone, even if it's just You!

V. Richardson: What have you discovered about yourself on your journey to publication?
I've discovered that I don't have to settle for just enough. When my first book was published and things weren't quite right for me I had to learn how to make things better. That meant me taking the time learn a lot of things. What the publisher did I needed to learn it for myself. What they did for me I learned to do myself and with higher royalties. I'm not a greedy person. I just became a bit wiser in my dealings. I also discovered that confidence and constant faith is a must. I can't be all I need to be without either

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

S. Williams: Readers can contact me a number of ways: www.shalondatreasurewilliams.webs.com (my main website. Email me at lovewalkmeditations@yahoo.com. If any are members of the Goodreads community, www.goodreads.com/shalondatreasurewilliams

V. Richardson: Shalonda, thank you so very much for talking with me.

S. Williams: Thank you Vanessa for allowing yourself to be used as such a great vessel of inspiration.

V. Richardson: I pray that your novels will touch and heal the heart of many. Too, I pray GREAT success to you. As always in closing-- continue to inspire as you aspire.

Contact Author Shalonda "Treasure" Williams
"You too are Full of Great Purpose" Also, visit on my new site. Love Walk Author Support is dedicated to authors showing support through purchases, information & reviews. A place where you join with support in mind.

http://lovewalkauthorssupport.spruz.com
Join us at the place where we watch our book sales grow.

Have A Little Faith (Short Story)

2010-01-17T09:33:00.000-08:00

Have A Little Faith by Vanessa Richardson © Copyright 2008. All rights reserved. No portion of this work may be duplicated or copied without the expressed written consent of the author.

It was one of the darkest times for her. Try as she might visibility was next to nil. She just could not understand how she came to be in this situation. Reminiscing over her life wondering if somewhere down in her past she had inadvertently done wrong to someone and God was punishing her for it. She readily admitted that she was not perfect. She believed and lived by her motto of treating others the way you would want to be treated. Growing up she was a volunteer at her local hospital. She was active in her community and attended church faithfully. She was always faithful in her relationships. She had no answers. Why was this happening to her? Feeling the familiar sting of tears forming, she swallowed hard willing them away.

A sob broke forth. A single tear fell followed by another and another until a full out tsunami erupted. She came out of nowhere smelling like fresh flowers. Mama wrapped her arms around her only child. This loving move caused Mercy’s tears to fall fast and furious. It seemed her mother always knew she needed her the most. Mercy turned into her mothers comforting embrace, clinging tightly to her, she released her deep sorrow. Mercy felt like a drowning victim, of late, it seemed as though her mother was the lifeline keeping her a float. So the tears of not understanding continued there flow.

The combination of denial and hurt caused her soulful cries to escalate. Through this mama remained unflappable. Steadily, she continued to rock her only child, soothingly brushing back her long dark tresses, all the while singing an old familiar gospel song. Precious Lord, take my hand Lead me on, let me stand I’m tired, I am weak I am worn through the storm, through the night Lead me on to the light Take my hand precious Lord Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, let me stand, I am tired, I am weak, I am worn; Through the storm, through the night, Lead me on to the light: Mercy normally would have been embarrassed by such display of weakness. Not today.

She needed this cry. Mercy could not help but to wonder if crying had categories. She only knew that this would be the last cry over this particular situation. The famous quote from civil rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer came to mind. She was “sick and tired of being sick and tired,” reluctantly removing herself from her mothers comforting embrace. Mama nodded her head and smiled. Standing mama gave her privacy to recollect herself. Mercy was grateful to her. Mercy sat staring into her glass of lemonade. “Mercy, baby, not every dark cloud mean its going to rain. Have a little faith,” Mama sipped her lemon lime lemonade smiling. They had adjourned to the kitchen both drinking a tall cold glass of lemonade. After her gut-wrenching cry, mama had suggested that she take a long bath and to later join her in the kitchen.

Food always cheered Mercy up. Mama could make a meal like no body’s business. In her late fifties mama was often mistaken for being in her mid forties. Her cinnamon skin was wrinkled free and her onyx eyes still sparkled with youthful gaiety. Mercy looked at her mother in askance. Her mother has taken this journey with her from the beginning. She saw the hurt and pain she was enduring this latest episode was testimony of her hurt. There was no it looks like. It is what it is. Chuckling softly mama put her cup down and clasped her daughter’s hand.

Mercy was her only child and was a gift from God. She was her miracle child. Doctors told her she would never be able to conceive. The news was devastating to her. However, God had mercy upon her. Some women get married only to have kids because they think it is the next thing to do. Mama knew from a small child that she would be a mother. She wanted to have a house full of children. God’s plans were different. She and Almer her husband of thirty-five years never gave up faith that they would one day be parents. Their Mercy was their gift from God. That was a dark looming cloud, but no rain had followed. “You know the story of how you were born. I know you hurting but I want you to really listen to me,” Mama held up her hand stopping Mercy’s denial. “Listen to me with your heart. If this door closes, God can open up another.

You can still be happy, baby. It is your choice.” Mama leaned forward capturing her loved child’s eyes. “You can be happy.” Looking into her mothers warm eyes, Mercy did indeed feel she could be happy. Looking at the phone, she sighed. In ten minutes, her Doctor would be calling her to confirm if she was pregnant. She smiled wistfully. History had a way of repeating itself. She had inherited the gene that her mother has that made conceiving almost impossible. She and her husband Stanley had been trying unsuccessfully for five years to have a baby. The sudden a strange phenomenon occurred. She was craving weird foods and she was nauseated every morning. She kept these changes to herself for almost a month. Finally telling her husband of her suspicions together, they schedule an appointment to see her family doctor. Due to her rare condition, several types of blood tests had to be run. The result would be back in two days. Today was day two. A tremor began to course through her body. Just then, Stanley and her father came in. Stanley said not a word he just held her. Mercy embraced her husband of seven years entrance. He was still able to make her heart soar just by entering a room. At six feet three, he made her feel safe and secure. His skin was the color of mocha, his newly grown goat tee made him appear ruggedly handsome.

Mercy rested her head on his broad shoulders. He tightened his embrace. Mercy sighed tightening her hold She silently offered up a pray of thanks to God. Family meant every thing to her. Hazarding another glance at the clock, Mercy realized she had only two minutes left until “the call.” Her father a big burly man with skin the color of molasses kissed her forehead taking a seat next to mama. Although expected the call, the shrilling noise of the phone caused all four occupants to jump. No one moved. They were afraid to. What was the answer behind the call?

Finally, Mercy forced herself to answer the shrilling phone. “Hello.” Mercy barely recognized her own voice. “This is she. Ok. Thank you for all you have done for us. Good bye.” Mercy looked at her loved ones grateful for their presence, their combined strength made this journey bearable. Finally replacing the phone Mercy numbly went into her husband-awaiting embrace. Her silent pillow of strength. True to character he said not a word, he just held her.

Mama bowed her head as papa wrapped his arms around her in comfort. “We’re going to be the proud parents to twins,” Mercy finally revealed. The room remained silent at her announcement. Mercy lean back to look into her husbands eyes. They were wide with shock. His mouth moved but no words came forth. He laughed spinning her around in a circle. Mercy laughed aloud at his joyful display. My but how good it felt to laugh. She thought. She could not stop herself, did not want to stop really, laughing felt good. “Did I hear you right, Baby? We’re having twins?” His voice cracked. Her husband’s tears were falling free and fast. Mercy nodded her head wildly sending her tresses everywhere. Her joyful tears matching that of her beloved. Stanley lifted her spinning her around. “Praise the Lord!” Mama shouted spinning around in her own little circle. Papa leaped up and began doing an off beat jig. “This is cause for a celebration. We are going out to celebrate. Yee haw! I am going to be a grandpa twice in one day. My baby is having babies,” Papa continued his offbeat jig. “We are doing no such a thing, Papa,” Mama cried. “I have already prepared a feast for the heavens. We will eat right here and celebrate in the privacy of our home, not in a restaurant filled with strangers.”

Mercy and her husband were oblivious to her parents bantering. They young couple continued to hold each other, tears of joy steadily flowing. It was contagious as Mama and papa’s own tears began to fall. Silently they watched the young couple. They had endured much and were deserving of great happiness. Papa nodded at mama, gently guided her out of the kitchen affording the young ones some privacy. The table could wait they had time.

Disclaimer: artwork by J. Mayers

THE Dream Experience

2010-01-15T07:27:00.000-08:00

I am delighted to announce what I hail as a inspirational, motivationational and soulfest teleclass!

Dream Explosion Coming Near You!:

Dream Experience Series has faith-based concepts to give you a future of hope and promise. It also can include business, ministry, adult-youth based programs/organizations, and author-publisher insight, information, and knowledge-based methods to keep your dreams alive and pursing your dreams to a reality.

Topics: Series 1--Dreaming Again and Invest in You!

• Dream Phases: dream, dream 4 more, and dream inclusively
• Define your purpose and dreams with your talents, abilities, and skills
• Steps to unlock the keys to your destiny
• Steps to defeat rejection, barriers, and circumstances
• Invest in You: budgets
• Write the Vision, make it plain, and make it happen

Dream Speakers: James A. Jimason, Vanessa Richardson, and Adrienna Turner.

Fee for Workshop: $20.00 for up to 2 hours of Dream Explosion. Note: First 10 registrants will have the opportunity to win a free copy of guest author's books!!

Date and Time: January 31, Sunday, 6:00-8:00 p.m. CST.

Payments received by: January 30th, 11:59 p.m. (ends)* normally 5 business days in advance. First show, we will allow 24 hour or more before show.

Email will be sent with call in number and pin number to listen in or listen to webcast (online) with chat. Will be recorded for playback feature to our fellow listeners. We will require email and call in number before session after payment rendered.

Author and Motivational Speaker
James A. Jimason

Author and Playwright
Vanessa Richardson

EVENT ORGANIZER and SPEAKER

Adrienna Turner is an accomplished author of several nonfiction and poetry books. Her latest book is "Desire at Will"--nonfiction spiritual book. She also writes under pseudonym names for her fiction projects such as science-fiction/horror; romance draspensedy (drama, romance, suspense); fantasy/supernatural fiction; and suspense thrillers genres.

Her other writing abilities as a contributing writer for Heavenly Magazine (http://www.heavenlymag.com/) and Celebrity Report Magazine (www.celebrityreportmagazine.com), and Associated Content Press with featured articles. She is available for literary and proofreading projects on LivePerson.com to chat live or email. She is the founder of Dream 4 More Literary Consulting Firm.

Her passion is encouraging and edifying other aspiring writers to believe in their work, to polish it, and make it marketable. Therefore, she started a literary firm called Dream 4 More Literary Consulting Firm to help new and aspiring authors to showcase their books and enhance their writing projects to become a masterpiece. Other passions are youth involvement, community, and legal field.

Contact Author and Blogtalk Radio Host Adrienna Turner
http://www.dreams4more.com/dreameventsbusiness.htm
www.adriennaturner.webs.com
www.blogtalkradio.com/adrienna-turner

Victorious Living for Women Blog Tour

2010-01-12T19:35:00.000-08:00

About the Book

Victorious Living for Women is filled with the inspiration, wisdom and pathways to victory of 42 incredible women who share stories of their life experiences, from their heart to yours. They have endured personal pain and have come through empowered, encouraged and victorious.

As they take you on their personal journeys you will find inspiration, encouragement and blueprints for victory embedded in each chapter. You will discover principles for transforming your life. You can learn how to overcome fear, find you purpose, define your destiny, recover from divorce, heal your heart, physical healing, dealing with the loss of loved ones and so much more.

This stellar assembly of women with inspiring true-life stories will captivate you throughout each page as you read how their lives were transformed from anger to joy, disappointment to destiny and trial to victory. Their candor, wisdom and inspiration can help you to pursue your path of becoming a victorious woman.

I am Johnese K. Stewart and my chapter in the book Victorious Living for Women is Living Life on Purpose: Choosing to be Victorious.

What motivated me to participate in Victorious Living for Women Project was a question that I asked God about what was my next assignment pertaining to my writing and about three days later I received an email. This email was a press release about a collaborative book publishing venture and their recruiting of new and season authors. I knew that it was my answer and I also knew that this was a special project. So, I moved quickly without any hesitation.

Read an excerpt and check the tour schedule at http://bit.ly/VictoriousLivingForWomenTour.

Victorious Living for Women

Table of Contents

1. Althea Marscene Williams
2. Angela Brown
3. Evangelist Brenda Dennis
4. Apostle Caroll Pollard Lopez
5. Cherri Waltson
6. Cheryl A. Pullins
7. Cheryl Donovan
8. Christine Pembleton
9. Deana Murphy
10. Debbie Magee
11. Deborah Billingsley
12. Donna Saunders
13. Eleanor Pat Miller
14. Gail Dudley
15. Jacqueline Lewis-Kemp
16. Jewell Powell
17. Joan Gosier
18. Joann Smith
19. Johnese Stewart
20. Joy Turner
21. Dr. Joyce McNeal
22. Kathleen Moon
23. Katrina Norfleet
24. Kimberly F. Jackson
25. L. Denise Simpson
26. Dr. LaWanna Harrod
27. Lea Marie Lucas
28. Letetia Liggins
29. Linda Evans
30. Lorraine Williams
31. Lucretia Daniel
32. Martha Lake
33. Melissa Hoffman
34. Michele Mills
35. Paulette Harper
36. Rhonda White
37. Tiesha Johnson
38. Tiffany Easley
39. Tina Gwynn
40. Tresmaine Grimes
41. Valarie D. Bloom

Deliver Me From My Enemies, Author Sharon Oliver

2010-01-05T05:45:00.000-08:00

INTRODUCING SHARON OLIVER!

Sharon Oliver is a native of Baltimore, Maryland and a former Systems Administrator for a federal agency. Aside from working on her fourth fiction book, a psychological thriller, she is also a freelance writer. The author focuses on penning Christian themed novels cloaked in mystery and humor. She currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia with her family.

Synopsis: Deliver Me From My Enemies

Charlotte Morley had assumed her Aunt Ramiyah’s motive for killing her husband was due to his being abusive. However, a series of letters from Ramiyah slowly reveal that the true motive springs deep from beneath the family tree. While trying to figure out what is really going on, a childhood friend comes to town with a few issues of his own.

V. Richardson: Hi Sharon! Thank you for chatting with me today!

S.Oliver: Thank you for having me.

V. Richardson: Your latest release is titled “Deliver Me from My Enemies.” What is the synopsis?

S.Oliver: This story is the sequel to “Keep Your Enemies Closer” and it picks ups a little from the cliffhanger, which is eventually revealed and another crises in the Morley family starts to brew. The protagonist, Charlotte Morley, is still in South Carolina and while there she starts to receive letters from her Aunt Ramiyah who is in jail for killing her husband. Everyone assumed the motive behind the murder was due to the humiliating swinging lifestyle introduced to Ramiyah by her husband. However, the straw that broke the camel’s back was actually a disturbing fact the husband revealed to Ramiyah about her own family.

In the meantime, a childhood friend of Charlotte’s is also in town with some issues of his own along with the same zany cast of characters who help provide some comic relief. The story is funny yet deals with some serious issues that we often sweep under the rug. Although it does not end in another cliffhanger, there is a surprise towards the end.

V. Richardson: What do you want readers to take away from this book?

S.Oliver: Hopefully, they will be entertained. For those who may be struggling with, is,(or has been) a victim of an issue mentioned in the book, it is my sincere desire that they are healed and set free.

V. Richardson: There is always a story behind the glory. How do/did you deal with rejection(s)?

S.Oliver: I’m laughing because I’m still dealing with rejections. God is helping me to develop a thick skin.

V. Richardson: How do you stay motivated as an author?

S.Oliver: When “stricken” with writer’s block, I just go with the non-flow and rest, but once a stream of ideas and/or words flow again then I’m good to go. Plus, praying for the motivation helps as well.

V. Richardson: Are there any forthcoming projects readers should be made aware of?

S.Oliver: Currently, I am working on a murder mystery series, the first which is set for release in February 2011. I love cozies. I’m also working on a psychological-thriller. Think Fatal Attraction meets Single Black Female.

V. Richardson: What advice would you offer to aspiring authors?

S.Oliver: Do not give up. Keep plugging at it because God has a way of opening doors. Purchase a copy of the Writer’s Digest. It’s an author’s bible, sort to speak. And network with folk, research everything and market your product. The work does not end along with The End in your last chapter. Writing is only a part of the journey.

V. Richardson: How can readers contact you?

S.Oliver: Please visit my website, which is www.sharonoliver.net. My email address is located there. Also, readers can find me, Sharon Oliver, on Facebook.

V. Richardson: Sharon, thank you so very much for chatting with me. It is always delightful when connecting with you. As always in closing, continue to inspire as you aspire.

To request a review an interview and/or a book signing with the author:
Please Contact:
Progressive Book Marketing
P.O. Box 1271; Gaylord, MI 49734
800-806-1075 ext. 103
progressiveoa@gmail.com
Denise Glesser

Visit her website at http://www.sharonoliver.net/

REVIEWS FOR KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER
All of the characters in the book are three dimensional and very interesting, entertaining and complex. The theme of this book to me is the goodness of God and things we look at as a disaster God sees it as an opportunity to bless us. The theme is really intertwined in the book from beginning to end and there is never a time in this book where you are guessing about the theme.

Even though the theme is very familiar and traditional, I felt it was still entertaining with characters such as Timmi and Sista. The author's style of writing is simple, easy and humorous. She wrote the book so that if flowed quite effortlessly. Even through the twists and turns this book takes with her style of writing, she does not lose you. Yvonne, Women of Character Book Club - Orlando, Florida

Sharon Oliver's book, "Keep Your Enemies Closer," although labeled as Christian Fiction, is wonderfully believable as it weaves you into the story of "Charlotte," a Christian woman visiting her grandparents "down south." With Sharon Oliver's brilliant writing style, you will find yourself easily captivated by the endearing character's lives, with all of their colorful and complicated "quirks." Ms. Oliver weaves a storyline so suspenseful that you will actually catch yourself holding your breath, waiting for the turning of the next page. You will also find yourself laughing out loud at the delightful character, Ms. Sista.

The main character, Charlotte, gives us all a shining example of faith in action. Charlotte handles each complication that comes her way by seeking God first and so her own faith shines as a beacon to her friends, as well as family. The Light of the Low Country Magazine, Bamberg, SC.
Review from weRead.com
by Stephanie (weRead user published 2008-09-05 )

OMG! I'm sitting on pins and needles waiting for the sequel. But seriously, the faith that is displayed in this book and the descriptions of the fruits of the Spirit are awesome. The book grabs your interest and holds it from cover to cover.
A reader from Virginia writes: I just finished the book and I am ready for the sequel. When will it be ready so I can see what will happen to Charlotte and the bad twin. It was so exciting that I couldn't put the book down. Please let me know and keep on writing.

Another reader from Texas writes: When is part 2 coming out? I just cannot wait to find out what happened...
www.myspace.com/Sidne-The Book Clubs Reviewer: The novel offers you characters that display humor, faith, struggles, a non-believer's perspective, deception and the character of Sista is someone you will find in your church. This novel is a wonderful Christian fiction read.

Love Found Me

2009-12-31T05:29:00.000-08:00

I am excited about my new inspirational suspense, Love Found Me! If you have not ordered your copies, please do so, and then drop me a line. Best to you and Happy New Years!

Mike Montgomery once lived the American dream. Gainfully employed, beautiful home, and a wonderful loving wife. Growing up in a loving family whose faith was unbreakable was his source of strength. Mike's faith would one day be shaken after losing the love of his life in an unexpected tragedy. Mike thought he would never love again until he meets Sheila Lawson. Everything about Sheila made him want to love again. Could he risk his heart again?

Sheila Lawson, a woman’s health advocate was strong and independent, yet something was missing in her life. Immersing herself in her work, she vowed off any relationships. Sheila would find her self-made decree shaken when she meets tall, dark, and handsome Mike Montgomery. There is an evil lurking in the shadows. Mike and Sheila will have to unite to overcome evil forces trying to keep them apart. Will their love be enough to see them through the testing of their faith?

REVIEWS:

Nov 20, 2009 Dream 4 More Book Reviews rated it:

Read in December, 2009
Vanessa Richardson delivers an electrifying, undeniable love story between two people who do not believe it is happening immediately before their very eyes and their hearts beating at a rapid rate. Their first encounter speaks for itself.

We first meet Michael and his twin brother, Bryan, and see their agape love for one another regardless of their different lifestyles, paths, and personalities. Then, we see Shelia Lawton, who does not want to go back in the house of God with her bes...more Vanessa Richardson delivers an electrifying, undeniable love story between two people who do not believe it is happening immediately before their very eyes and their hearts beating at a rapid rate. Their first encounter speaks for itself.

We first meet Michael and his twin brother, Bryan, and see their agape love for one another regardless of their different lifestyles, paths, and personalities. Then, we see Shelia Lawton, who does not want to go back in the house of God with her best friend and colleague Rayna Peterson. These ladies met at college and remained friends since. We see Rayna go from graduating in Political Science/Pre-law major to wanting to become partner at Hudson, Fist, and Hudson law firm. Shelia majored in Sociology is now working as a Domestic Violence Counselor.

Vanessa captures the readers attention from the Prologue, where you do not want to stop reading in one-sitting. I enjoyed reading every character in the book, also seeing love electrifying over the emotions and souls of the characters--where I can picture them in my mind as if it is a TV series on Lifetime. I cannot wait for the sequel. This is a must-read, especially if you love inspirational-suspense (or Christian Fiction, Contemporary Romance).

Dream 4 More Reviews,
Adrienna Turner
5 stars--Wooed Us!