"If Loving You Is Wrong" Actor Joel Rush. "Martin" actor and director Tommy Ford and Author Michelle Stimpson

The Certain Ones Talk Show 

Thursday, February 25th, 2016

Featured Guests! 

From the creative mind of Actor, Producer and Playwright Tyler Perry. Join  The Certain Ones Talk Show Panel is "If Loving You Is Wrong." Actor Joel Rush.

"Martin."  actor and director Tommy Ford visits The Certain Ones Talk Show to share his latest projects and upcoming events! 

Inspirational educator and author Michelle Stimpson drops in to discuss her latest novel! 

michellestimpson.com/

"Stuck on You." by Michelle Stimpson

After This...

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.”

Soon After Blog Tour Sherryle Kiser Jackson

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.

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

• 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

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

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

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/

Author of Prodigal Zaria Garrison

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

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

Have A Little Faith (Short Story)

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

Love Found Me

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!

Jacquelin Thomas The Ideal Wife Blog Tour

Inspirational Author Jacquelin Thomas has just released her latest literary master piece, The Ideal Wife. And I am so happy when I discovered her writings sveral years ago. She is one of the many authors that inspired me to pursue one of my many of my goals and that was becoming an author. Recently Mrs. Thomas held a contest on what would make an Ideal wife. I chimed in although my experience as a wife is limited--not married yet! I was galvanized to read; The Ideal Wife. Ladies and Gents, what do you think The Ideal Wife is?

Allow me to introduce you to Jacquelin Thomas, she is an award winning, bestselling author with twenty-nine titles in print. Her books have garnered several awards, including two EMMA awards, the Romance In Color Reviewers Award, Readers Choice Award and the Atlanta Choice Award in the Religious & Spiritual category. Jacquelin was a 2005 honoree at the Houston Black Film Festival for the movie adaptation of her novel, Hidden Blessings.

She was the first recipient to receive the Writers Achievement Award at the North Carolina Book Festival in Winston-Salem.

Although Jacquelin initially published in the romance genre, she decided to follow the call on her heart to write Christian fiction because she seeks to write books that will touch your heart and uplift your spirits with tales of characters who yearn to have an intimate relationship with God. Committed to writing books that glorify God and her growing teen audience, Jacquelin published the first of her Young Adult Inspirational Fiction series titled Simply Divine in October 2006. Her second book in the series, Divine Confidential was nominated for a 2008 NAACP Image Award. She has since gone on to publish two more books in the series. When asked why she is so passionate about writing teen novels, Thomas shares that teens are confronted with so much—sex, drugs, violence and abuse, physically and mentally. They need to not only listen to what the world says about these things but also to what the Bible says.Jacquelin is a member of the National Writers Union, Romance Writers of America and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. She is happily married to her best friend and is the proud mother of three children. Jacquelin and her family live in North Carolina.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jana Collins loves her husband with all her heart. But what if love isn’t enough? Marrying a handsome, wealthy lawyer and living in a Hollywood Hills mansion . . . it’s a dream come true for twenty-four-year-old Jana, from the moment Lawrence Collins swept her off her feet and into his luxurious world. True, she put her studies at a local Bible college on hold in order to wed after a six-month whirlwind romance. Beautiful and vivacious, with a stunning body, Jana knows men like Lawrence don’t come along every day, and she vows to be a perfect companion—the ideal wife—to this sexy, powerful man.

But at what price?From her wardrobe and hairstyle to her friends and her choice of church, Lawrence seems to want to change Jana into someone she’s not . . . and soon, the man Jana thought she knew will test her values and her faith with a shocking revelation that goes against everything she believes—how far will Jana be willing to go to keep the man she loves? With her “ideal” marriage falling apart, Jana—the real, modest, smart, and strong girl who knows what she stands for—must put her trust in God, and follow His guiding light out of the darkness of a broken relationship.Drawing from a moving scripture tale with an insightful message for women today, Jacquelin Thomas delivers a provocative and enlightening new novel.

Visit Jacquelin Thomas at: http://www.jacquelinthomas.com/

Follow The Ideal Wife Blog Tour

http://bit.ly/TheIdealWife (October 5-9)