Terrorism USA
As the citizens of the USA debate about the better candidate the topic of the war on terrorism was mentioned as we continue to send our sons and daughters to battle this war. The surprising part of this war is it is being done outside the borders of our good ole' USA. I've worked behind the walls of the prison for fifteen years and lived my most life in what has been claimed as a crime ridden city. I am willing to admit we'll never win the war in the other countries and when we discover our lost it will be more than the war for democracy in foreign countries we will lose our homes, communities and loved ones right here in the USA.
As you can imagine my work environment brings together many of those who society and the court deem as unworthy to live in the free world. However, they get word on the street wars, politics etc. and pass information from institution to institution and home to home. Today a message was passed that 45 bodies were to be counted by October 31. Meaning in plain terms 45 people were to be killed on the street during a spree of shootings.
These senseless killings are not a part of the democracy that our government is fighting afar, but it is indeed terrorism. It is terrorism when these threats are not just sent but carried out. We see it every day. Gangs, drug wars, innocent killings, shooting sprees reign throughout the communities. As citizens our lives are altered, our children must be protected, police are trigger happy and the war on terrorism is afar. We are being terrorized here in the USA.
The crimes, murders, sodomy, rapes, school killings, amber alerts, car jacking; terrorism in the smallest form. The citizens are at the mercy of terrorist. The inner cities streets are riddled with drug sells, shootings, and fear. The suburbs are in denial. It is war and we are not protected.
The law? In New Jersey the cost of housing a criminal per year is estimated between thirty to thirty five thousand dollars. The inmate receives meals, a bed, and is insured security, health benefits, programs, and education. Some of our citizens can't apply and receive these benefits as a free woman or man. The sentencing guarantees without illness the cost will be provided for the incarcerated the duration of there confinement. Ten years, three hundred thousand paid on a killer. Someone who terrorized a neighbor, the elderly, a child, sold dope, used weapons and decided that he didn't like the rules of the government; one against the morals and respect of the average students. But we fight the war on terrorism afar.
Just Venting........stay safe........
Author Nanette M. Buchanan
EDC Creations Promotional Video
Meet the EDC Creations team at our website: www.edc-creations.com. We offer the best in Internet Book Promotions.
How to Self-publish a Book
How to Self-Publish & Market Your Own Book: A Simple Guide for Aspiring Writers
by Mack E. Smith (Author), Sara Freeman Smith (Author)
ISBN-10: 0966232887
ISBN-13: 978-0966232882
Book Description
This book provides easy yet effective tools used in publishing and marketing books successfully. The authors, Mack E. Smith and Sara Freeman Smith, include their personal experiences in publishing their books. The book list many resources in the appendix, such as production timelines, printers, trade associations, etc. It explains how to: get free advertising, avoid common publishing mistakes, prepare a marketing plan, complete important registrations, select a book printer, and much more.
How to Self-Publish and Market Your Own Book includes sample forms, pricing information, and budget worksheets. The book also includes a special section of tips and resources for minority and women writers. Every aspiring writer can understand this simple guide.
In Her Mind by Renee Daniel Flagler
Renee discusses her book, live from the Baltimore Book Fair. Excuse the band. Book Details: Shelly Winston is back with a vengeance. When she finds out that the man she s always wanted for herself is about to get married, she decides to do what she should have done nearly two years before get him back by any means necessary. After all, Brian Turner belonged to her first. And as far as she is concerned, she will get him back, even if it means eliminating the one person who stands in her way his fiance, Lexie Mitchell. Brian and Lexie s relationship has stood the tests of time and they believe they have what it takes to make it in the long haul. At least it appears that way until Shelly resurfaces and rocks the solid foundation they thought they built. In this fast paced narrative Lexie, Brian and Shelly embark on a spellbinding journey that pushes the limits of love, trust, desire and lies. ISBN-10: 0976046628
Ella Curry of EDC Creations interviews Sheryll Cashin
The Agitator's Daughter: A Memoir of Four Generations of One Extraordinary African-American Family by Sheryll Cashin at the Congressional Black Caucus. Organized by The Renaissance Group, LLC.
During Reconstruction, Herschel V. Cashin was a radical republican legislator who championed black political enfranchisement throughout the South. His grandson, Dr. John L. Cashin, Jr., inherited that passion for social justice and formed an independent Democratic party to counter George Wallace's Dixiecrats, electing more blacks to office than in any Southern state. His "uppity" ways attracted many enemies. Twice the private plane Cashin owned and piloted was sabotaged. His dental office and boyhood home were taken by eminent domain. The IRS pursued him, as did the FBI. Ultimately his passions would lead to ruin and leave his daughter, Sheryll, wondering why he would risk so much.
Sheryll Cashin conveys how she came to embrace being an agitator's daughter with humor, honesty, and love. ISBN-10: 1586484222
Ella Curry Interviews Walter Mosley
I was overjoyed at interviewing Mr. Walter Mosley at the Baltimore Book Festival! The band across the street is alot louder than my interview, but I was still honored to interview Mr. Mosley. He is discussing his book The Tempest Tales. Sorry you can't hear him better.
The Tempest Tales by Walter Mosley (Author)
Tempest Landry, an everyman African American, is “accidentally” killed by a cop. Denied access to heaven because of what he considers a few minor transgressions, Tempest refuses to go to hell. Stymied, Saint Peter sends him back to Harlem, where a guiding angel tries to convince him to accept Saint Peter's judgment, and even the Devil himself tries to win over Tempest’s soul. Through the street-smart Landry, Mosley poses the provocative question: Is sin for blacks the same as it is for whites? And who gets to decide?
ISBN-10: 1574780433
ISBN-13: 978-1574780437
Ella Curry interviews Celeste O. Norfleet
Live from the Congressional Black Caucus we discuss the book She Said, She Said (Kimani Tru) by Celeste O. and Jennifer Norfleet. Turn up the volume! Book Details: Can you ground your mother? On the last day of school, Tamika's boyfriend dumps her, her best friend moves away and she's forced to go on a lame mother-daughter trip to her grandmother's house. She can barely handle one minute with her controlling, critical mom. But when they arrive, her life gets even worse! Her mother is suddenly acting like she's trying out for Moms Gone Wild, partying with her old high school crowd. Now Tamika's the responsible one: taking care of business and stuck on a nice guy instead of a player. She wouldn't mind a little bit of her old mom back. Wait a minute, did she really say that? ISBN-10: 0373830912
Charles D. Ellison
Ella interviews the author of Tantrum, Charles D. Ellison, live at the Congressional Black Caucus. Please excuse the background noise. Book Details:Councilman a young, handsome, firebrand Philadelphia legislator in desperate search of true identity and meaning, is one day faced with an anxious assassin s missing bullet, and the soaking blood of a dying man in his arms. Puzzled police investigators scratch their heads and assume it s a failed mob hit , but over time, Councilman figures there are even deadlier, more hidden powers at work.... TANTRUM: an explosive political thriller, wrapped in fiery multi-narrative by a city, gripped in extreme violent rage and unstable transition. Organized by The Renaissance Group,LLC. Brought to you by EDC Creations. ISBN-10: 0974298255
Go Master The Day by Allen C. Barham
Ella Curry interviews the author of Remember, It Is Your Charge, Go Master The Day, Allen C. Barham, Sr.(Dr. B), live at the BBF. Please turn up your volume and excuse the band.
Book Details: People are given a purpose for their life when they are born. Greatness is placed within each individual in order to help him or her live out their purpose and pursue their destiny. "Go Master The Day© ™" is designed to help the reader come to the reality that they have a distinct purpose in this life, and their destiny is greatness. This book will help the reader shed their sin consciousness and embrace their righteousness. This is a book of powerful success deposits that will: instruct, motivate, & inspire each person to live their purpose, pursue their destiny and master each day. This book motivates and inspires you to embrace the truth of who you are: The Righteousness Of God, and, of course, a "DayMaster© ™" Remember, it is your charge, "Go Master The Day© ™"ISBN-10: 1425138454
A Matter Of Attitude by Hayden
A Matter Of Attitude (Kimani Tru) by Hayden. Live from the Congressional Black Caucus. Book Details: Fashionista with the fiercest style sense and head-turning clothes? That's Angela Jenkins. Even though her cutting-edge designs and graphic legwear sometimes draw criticism from her peers, Angela knows that one day she will be a top designer, and her best friend at Kressler High, Adrian Gomez, is her biggest supporter. But at fifteen, how is anyone (like the extremely cute JaRoli Spencer) supposed to check her out when she's stuck working at her family's Caribbean-style restaurant all the time? The answer: getting elected director of her school's holiday fashion show.
But Angela's got designer-clad competition: the very popular Karen Frasier, who has it all—including JaRoli. So when Shayla Mercer, the girl with the toughest street rep, offers to make sure Angela wins—for a fee— Angela says yes. And she learns that the price of popularity can be too high. ISBN-10: 0373830890
Kevin Wayne Johnson at Baltimore Book Festival
Kevin Wayne Johnson live at the Baltimore Book Festival. Author of Give God the Glory! The Godly Family Life. Truly, the foundation of our world, the family, is under attack. The traditional family has been and is being re-defined by modern society. As fathers and mothers we must be willing to go to war to recapture and secure our God given tour-of-duty of being effective parents. Kevin Wayne Johnson is like a general giving marching orders and challenging his troops/parents for the fight. Kevin Johnson s inspirational battle plans are boldly and clearly presented in his new book, The Godly Family Life. I highly recommend that all parents sign-up, re-enlist or even be drafted to review these battle plans and join in the fight for our families. ISBN-10: 0970590237
Financial Literacy Panel: Farrah Gray
Financial Literacy: Smart Money Solutions for Emerging Leaders panel discussion. This video is a selection of the panel discussion. Organized by The Renaissance Group, LLc and Hurston Wright Group. Footage shot live from the Congressional Black Caucus by Ella Curry of EDC Creations. www.edc-creations.com
Financial Literacy: Smart Money Solutions Intro
Introduction to the Fannie Mae Financial Literacy: Smart Money Solutions for Emerging Leaders panel discussion. This video is a selection of the panel discussion. Organized by The Renaissance Group, LLC and Hurston Wright Group. Footage shot live from the Congressional Black Caucus by Ella Curry of EDC Creations. www.edc-creations.com
Financial Literacy: Harrine Freeman Pt. 2
Harrine Freeman speaks on the Financial Literacy: Smart Money Solutions for Emerging Leaders panel discussion. This video is a selection of the panel discussion. Organized by The Renaissance Group, LLC and Hurston Wright Group. Footage filmed live from the Congressional Black Caucus by Ella Curry of EDC Creations. www.edc-creations.com
Financial Literacy: Ken Brown Speaks
Ken Brown speaks at the Financial Literacy: Smart Money Solutions for Emerging Leaders panel discussion. This video is a ... selection of the panel discussion. Organized by The Renaissance Group, LLC and Hurston Wright Group. Footage filmed live from the Congressional Black Caucus by Ella Curry of EDC Creations. www.edc-creations.com
William R. Patterson speaks on the Financial Literacy
William R. Patterson speaks on the Financial Literacy: Smart Money Solutions for Emerging Leaders panel discussion. This video is a ... selection of the panel discussion. Organized by The Renaissance Group, LLC and Hurston Wright Group. Footage filmed live from the Congressional Black Caucus by Ella Curry of EDC Creations. www.edc-creations.com
William R. Patterson live at the Congressional Black Caucus
William R. Patterson live at the Congressional Black Caucus. Filmed by Ella Curry of EDC Creations. www.edc-creations.com
Ella Curry Interviews Nathan McCall
Live from CBC. Them: A Novel - Paperback (Aug 19, 2008) by Nathan McCall. Nathan McCall's novel, Them, tells a compelling story set in a downtown Atlanta neighborhood known for its main street, Auburn Avenue, which once was regarded as the "richest Negro street in the world."
The story centers around Barlowe Reed, a single, forty-something African American who rents a ramshackle house on Randolph Street, just a stone's throw from the historic birth home of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Barlowe, who works as a printer, otherwise passes the time reading and hanging out with other men at the corner store. He shares his home and loner existence with a streetwise, twentysomething nephew who is struggling to get his troubled life back on track. When Sean and Sandy Gilmore, a young white couple, move in next door, Barlowe and Sandy develop a reluctant, complex friendship as they hold probing -- often frustrating -- conversations over the backyard fence. ISBN-10: 1416549161
Author Frankie Nicole's New Book Scratches
Meet Author Frankie Nicole as she introduces her new Book Scratches. Filmed live at the Capital Book Festival by EDC Creations.
Chloe R introduces new book
Chloe R introduces new book from Xpress Yourself Publishing. Filmed by EDC Creations.
Why should you read Xpress Yourself Publishing titles?
Be sure to check out the visual book trailer that displays the 2008 releases from Xpress Yourself Publishing, winner of the African American Literary Award for Best Independent Publishing House 2008! You also get a sneak peek at a few upcoming 2009 titles!
www.XpressYourselfPublishing.org
Linda R. Herman
www.LindaRHerman.com
www.XpressYourselfPublishing.org
Linda R. Herman
www.LindaRHerman.com
Should We Allow Children to Celebrate Halloween?
Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?
October 31 marks the annual celebration of Halloween. Many people, including Christians believe that this is a harmless celebration that allows children an opportunity to enjoy the frivolity of childhood. Many parents spend countless dollars on costumes, candy, parties, and other traditional trappings associated with this holiday. But, is it Christian-like to celebrate such a holiday? Some would say it's not any different that celebrating St. Patrick's Day or Columbus Day. Still others believe its akin to worshipping the devil.
There is a proverb that says "When you sup with the devil, use a long spoon."
Halloween is a pagan holiday that began in ancient times. The origins of Halloween are Celtic in anature and have to do with observing the end of summer sacrifices to gods in Druidic tradition. It is celebrated and revered as a day to worship the dead by the wiccan culture.
In ancient times, the gods were worshipped on this day with human sacrifices. Celtics believed Samhain, the lord of death, sent evil spirits abroad to attack humans, who could escape only by assuming disguises and looking like evil spirits themselves. The waning of the sun and the approach of dark winter made the evil spirits rejoice and play nasty tricks. Most of our Halloween practices can be traced back to these old pagan rites and superstitions.
In the fourth century, Christians attempted to co-opt the holiday by celebrating the lives of faithful Christian saints the day before Halloween. This was a conscious attempt to provide an alternative and to re-focus the day away from ghouls, goblins, ghosts, witches and other (I¡È(Bhaunted(I¡É(B experiences. Since that time many Christians have decided to allow their children to dress in more (I¡È(Binnocent(I¡É(B costumes of pumpkins, princesses, Superman or as a cowboy. Part of this is due to the simple reality that in today(I¡Ç(Bs Western culture it is nearly impossible to (I¡È(Bavoid(I¡É(B Halloween. But Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 10:20) "But I say that these things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God, and I would not that you should have fellowship with the devil.
Our children are impressionable and allowing them to celebrate Halloween can send mixed messages. Satan is cunning in the ways that he gains entry into our lives. If we are not careful, before long he can turn someting as simple as celebrating Halloween into a stronghold in our lives. You could be opening up doorways into your chidren's lives for evil by bringing them into a kind of "fellowship" with these ancient "gods."
We are commanded not to become involved with the unfruitful works of darkness (Eph. 5:11). And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Rom. 12:2)
So, should Christians celebrate Halloween and/or look for alternatives to celebrate on this day? What do you think?
Cheryl Lacey Donovan is the award winning author of Women What the Hell are You Thinking and the soon to be released Ministry of Motherhood (Peace in the Storm Publishing) To contact Cheryl visit her website at www.cheryllaceydonovan.com
October 31 marks the annual celebration of Halloween. Many people, including Christians believe that this is a harmless celebration that allows children an opportunity to enjoy the frivolity of childhood. Many parents spend countless dollars on costumes, candy, parties, and other traditional trappings associated with this holiday. But, is it Christian-like to celebrate such a holiday? Some would say it's not any different that celebrating St. Patrick's Day or Columbus Day. Still others believe its akin to worshipping the devil.
There is a proverb that says "When you sup with the devil, use a long spoon."
Halloween is a pagan holiday that began in ancient times. The origins of Halloween are Celtic in anature and have to do with observing the end of summer sacrifices to gods in Druidic tradition. It is celebrated and revered as a day to worship the dead by the wiccan culture.
In ancient times, the gods were worshipped on this day with human sacrifices. Celtics believed Samhain, the lord of death, sent evil spirits abroad to attack humans, who could escape only by assuming disguises and looking like evil spirits themselves. The waning of the sun and the approach of dark winter made the evil spirits rejoice and play nasty tricks. Most of our Halloween practices can be traced back to these old pagan rites and superstitions.
In the fourth century, Christians attempted to co-opt the holiday by celebrating the lives of faithful Christian saints the day before Halloween. This was a conscious attempt to provide an alternative and to re-focus the day away from ghouls, goblins, ghosts, witches and other (I¡È(Bhaunted(I¡É(B experiences. Since that time many Christians have decided to allow their children to dress in more (I¡È(Binnocent(I¡É(B costumes of pumpkins, princesses, Superman or as a cowboy. Part of this is due to the simple reality that in today(I¡Ç(Bs Western culture it is nearly impossible to (I¡È(Bavoid(I¡É(B Halloween. But Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 10:20) "But I say that these things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God, and I would not that you should have fellowship with the devil.
Our children are impressionable and allowing them to celebrate Halloween can send mixed messages. Satan is cunning in the ways that he gains entry into our lives. If we are not careful, before long he can turn someting as simple as celebrating Halloween into a stronghold in our lives. You could be opening up doorways into your chidren's lives for evil by bringing them into a kind of "fellowship" with these ancient "gods."
We are commanded not to become involved with the unfruitful works of darkness (Eph. 5:11). And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Rom. 12:2)
So, should Christians celebrate Halloween and/or look for alternatives to celebrate on this day? What do you think?
Cheryl Lacey Donovan is the award winning author of Women What the Hell are You Thinking and the soon to be released Ministry of Motherhood (Peace in the Storm Publishing) To contact Cheryl visit her website at www.cheryllaceydonovan.com
New Review Family Secrets Lies and Alibi's
SISTERHOOD BOOKCLUB
Review of the week
Family Secrets, Lies & Alibis
3.0 out of 5 stars What If ?, October 25, 2008
You fell deeply in love with this women or men that you just couldn't live with out? You two had so much in common that it was just unbelieveable that your soul mate that you search for years and years turns out to be....
This is where Darrell comes in at to find that his father dies before he could tell him that he was living a double. D.Q had all the money a wife and mistress. The wife and mistress know about each other but his kids didn't know about each other until the reading of the will.
The author brings out the family...Mrs. Mince,Darlene, Dershai,Tony, Mr. Simpson,Derek, Darryl,Nikki and Darrell. The secrets...that had been locked up for years. The lies...that D.Q had left for his mother to deal with after his passing. The Alibis...the he had to use for all them years to cover up his where abouts to keep everyone happy. Family Secrets, Lies & Alibis
Price $14.95
ISBN- 978-0979388309
Take a Poetic Journey
As They Slept.......
While they slept....
Their life was torn from it's roots. The land robbed and invaded.
While they slept....
They were shipped across the world, they freedom masqueraded.
While they slept.....
The women were raped, the men beat and abused.
While they slept.....
They became a part of a manipulative scheme.
They were in a world frightened and confused.
While they slept.....
More and more mentally they began to stir.
They withstood it all to be free again.
As they awoke....
They arose as a group.
Mentally strong, physically able, for their journey to begin.
As they awoke.....
Becoming free, they began to see,
what the new land would mean to you and me.
As they awoke.....
It was taught all eyes closed, do not sleep.
They left underground they learned to creep.
As they awoke.....
They brought us stories of our history and past.
With open eys how long will our slumber last?
Copyright (c) 1998
Thoughts
Get your copy of this Poetic Journey
www.lulu.com
Author, Nanette M. Buchanan
While they slept....
Their life was torn from it's roots. The land robbed and invaded.
While they slept....
They were shipped across the world, they freedom masqueraded.
While they slept.....
The women were raped, the men beat and abused.
While they slept.....
They became a part of a manipulative scheme.
They were in a world frightened and confused.
While they slept.....
More and more mentally they began to stir.
They withstood it all to be free again.
As they awoke....
They arose as a group.
Mentally strong, physically able, for their journey to begin.
As they awoke.....
Becoming free, they began to see,
what the new land would mean to you and me.
As they awoke.....
It was taught all eyes closed, do not sleep.
They left underground they learned to creep.
As they awoke.....
They brought us stories of our history and past.
With open eys how long will our slumber last?
Copyright (c) 1998
Thoughts
Get your copy of this Poetic Journey
www.lulu.com
Author, Nanette M. Buchanan
The Wife or The Mistress.....Whose Side Are You On?
The Wife or the Mistress.....Whose side are you on???
Family Secrets Lies & Alibi's
Chapter 37
Tonya rushed through the house trying to get ready for Sunday service. It was ten fifteen and if she didn't hurry she would be late. She decided to got to First Chapel Baptist Church this morning and meet Nana. Church wasn't usually on Tonya's agenda. She knew if Nana spotted her in the church it would give her an opportunity to speak with her face to face. Then she would apologize again. Tonya needed Nana on her side before the reading of the will. Tonya found her car keys and hurried out the door. The church was about thirty minutes from her house.
Tonya drove at a moderate speed thinking her plan out as though it was scripted. "If Mrs. Mince is in the hall I will speak to her there. She won't ignore me with all those church folks around. She'll hear me out." Tonya hadn't been to First Chapel it seemed since she and D.Q. got married. Tonya always told D.Q. that she wasn't comfortable at his family's church. The church her family attended was closer to their home. Tonya used that as an excuse not to attend services with D.Q. She would often try to persuade D.Q. to come to church with her. D.Q. would go every now and then but neither of them became a member. Tonya was still out done that D.Q. joined First Chapel and had been a member for five years. "It sure didn't change his habits," thought Tonya. "He still stayed with that scank, Christian or not."
Tonya arrived at the church as planned. It was early enough to find Nana, talk with her, and leave. She wasn't interested in the service. As she entered the church she spoke with members whose faces were familiar but she couldn't match them with a name. She smiled as she accepted their condolences and offers to be of assistance. Tonya couldn't understand why she hadn't seen Nana yet. She walked by all the offices and rooms speaking to members who may have seen her. Nana was so involved in the church she could have been anywhere. Tonya spotted Deacon Smalls.
Good morning Deacon Smalls."
"Good morning Sister Mince. How are you this morning?"
"I'm fine, have you seen Mrs. Mince this morning?"
"Yes I did. She was at the a.m. service."
"The a.m. service!"
"Is there something wrong, Sister Mince?"
"I can't believe this! There's plenty wrong Deacon, but you can't fix it."
Tonya headed straight for the parking lot exit leaving Deacon Smalls without saying goodbye. She got back into her car and slammed the door. "D.Q. I am sick of your family and their bull. Your Mama will learn that she is going to have to deal with me regardless. She's avoiding me now, but it won't last long," She picked up her cell and dialed Darlene.
"Good morning Darlene? How are you?"
"Oh, hey Tonya. I'm fine how about you?"
"I was good until I attempted to go to church." Tonya set the bait for sympathy.
"What happened, you didn't make it there?"
"Girl, I got there and got all choked up. You know it being the church where D.Q. will have his funeral services."
"Oh, so where are you now?"
"In the parking lot. I just had to call someone."
"It's okay. Are you feeling better?"
"I'm okay I guess. I'll go home and lay down. That's all I have been doing though, lying around."
"It's a part of grief." Darlene was beginning to feel Tonya was baiting her in.
"Darlene, I don't want you to think I'm a bad person."
"Why would I think that, Tonya?"
"I don't know. I guess from yesterday. You know, me drinking and coming to your mother's home. I just don't know what else to do. Dershai and Derek aren't answering their phones. My family called with condolences and excuses for not coming to the house. It's just all getting to me."
"Dershai and Derek should be calling you later today, I would imagine. Is your family coming to the funeral?"
"Yeah they are. None of them offered to come and be with me for a moment or two."
"Well Tonya if you like I can come this afternoon and sit with you for a while. Maybe we can watch a movie or two together."
Darlene wanted to know what Tonya was looking to find out. She never went to Tonya's just to sit. Tonya thought about her answer.
"Okay, I'll cook dinner and you get the movies."
"Sure, maybe the girls are getting together. I'll call Marci and see. If they are they can coax Dershai to come to the house while we're there."
Tonya wasn't ready to tell Dershai or Derek the situation. She wasn't sure she would tell them. Tonya had decided since they thought they didn't need her, let them find out they have a brother on their own.
"Darlene, I would prefer if it were just us. I'm still uncomfortable with telling Dershai and Derek. That's the problem. How do I tell them and do I tell it all?"
"Hmm, okay then I'll come by and we can talk it out."
"Thanks, I'll talk with you later."
"Okay, Tonya get a little rest. See you later."
Tonya Mince needs help. She needs win over the Mince family after the death of her husband. Preventing his mistress and son to take over D.Q. Enterprises has become her mission. Darrell Mince was named executor of the will but he's the son of D.Q. Mince her husband and Nikki Robinson his mistress. Will the Mince family help Tonya keep what a wife should rightfully gain after the death of there husband? Or will she find she lost her rights when she lost her husband to Nikki years prior?
GET YOUR COPY OF FAMILY SECRETS LIES AND ALIBI'S........
LEARN THE SECRETS OF D.Q. MINCE......
www.ipendesigns.com or www.myspace.com/ipendesigns
New Releases from Hachette Book Group
New Releases from Hachette Book Group
EDC Creations 5 Star Recommendations
If you are looking for a few great books to give away as gifts, here are my recommendations.
SINFUL, TOO by by Victor McGlothin
Ex-con Dior will do anything to become the new "First Lady" of Pastor Richard Allamay's wildly successful megachurch. Soon she's stripping away Richard's Godly principles, putting him at odds with his congregation, and throwing the lives of his insecure wife and bewildered children into turmoil. It will take a chain of events no one could have imagined-and only God could have planned-for hearts to be healed, transgressions forgiven, and one outrageous, conniving diva allotted the reward she deserves. Read More
EROTIC CITY by Pynk
Pynk brings us a fast-paced, sexy ride through a world of having sex in public, bribery, judgments, and suspense that sheds light on family, churchgoers, relationships, revenge, and the amazing sex-filled world of those who swing. Read More
GUNMETAL BLACK by Daniel Serrano
Urban lit meets classic noir in this auspicious debut from first-time novelist Daniel Serrano. GUNMETAL BLACK is a complex page-turner, introducing a major new voice in crime fiction. Read More
Check out the EDC Creations Pressroom for more new book releases.
EDC's Pressroom http://www.edc-creations.com/EDCCreationsMagazine/pressroom.htm
Please reach out to a domestic violence SURVIVOR!
I am Linda R. Herman and at age seventeen, my younger cousin was raped by the father of her then one year old son. The rape occurred in the child's presence where the father held a knife to my cousin's throat and forced himself on her. He also banged her head into the floor leaving her physically, emotionally, and mentally scarred for life. The physical bruising is gone but the emotional and mental live on.
My cousin, a brave young woman, is now in her second year of college. She is nineteen years old and the mother of one. Even though she does hold down a part-time job she is having financial difficulties.
How can you help? Please purchase an autographed copy (signed by me) of Somebody Prayed for Me (release date December 2, 2008) through my cousin's website, www.ShakestaWest.webs.com. All profits from sales go to her toward her education and her son's well-being.
Please visit her site and be sure to sign the guestbook!
P.S. The short story, "Silent Cries" is loosely based on what my cousin went through as a victim of teen abuse. It is the first story in the anthology Somebody Prayed for Me.
Linda R. Herman
www.LindaRHerman.com
My Blessing
My Blessings
Don't block my blessings that which is meant for me.
What God has intended is not determined by your words, acts or deeds.
Don't block my blessings.
As I have accomplished well deserved goals, nothing of materialistic value.
My blessings cannot be bought or sold.
Don't block my blessings with your promises or lies.
I've learned to make clear decisions in this world, which is guided by cheating, deceit and disguise.
Don't block my blessings. My rewards are my own.
I have grown in depending on my efforts, skills and talents alone.
Don't block my blessings for I have dodged life's obstacles and fatal blows.
I have learned to fall back, stumble and recover is a lesson in growth.
Don't block my blessing. For I have come this far by faith.
I can now see my faith and love in God has been well worth the wait.
Copyright (c) 2008
Quiet Times
Nanette M. Buchanan
visit www.myspace.com
www.ipendesigns.com
VIEW MY SITE.......VISIT MY BLOG POSTS.....Read, Relax, and Enjoy.
Don't block my blessings that which is meant for me.
What God has intended is not determined by your words, acts or deeds.
Don't block my blessings.
As I have accomplished well deserved goals, nothing of materialistic value.
My blessings cannot be bought or sold.
Don't block my blessings with your promises or lies.
I've learned to make clear decisions in this world, which is guided by cheating, deceit and disguise.
Don't block my blessings. My rewards are my own.
I have grown in depending on my efforts, skills and talents alone.
Don't block my blessings for I have dodged life's obstacles and fatal blows.
I have learned to fall back, stumble and recover is a lesson in growth.
Don't block my blessing. For I have come this far by faith.
I can now see my faith and love in God has been well worth the wait.
Copyright (c) 2008
Quiet Times
Nanette M. Buchanan
visit www.myspace.com
www.ipendesigns.com
VIEW MY SITE.......VISIT MY BLOG POSTS.....Read, Relax, and Enjoy.
The Re-Education of the Female by Dante Moore Sr.
The Re-Education of the Female
Finally a male point of view; usually when it comes to breaking down relationships between men and women you hear advice from over the hill psychologists or unqualified doctors but not the average male, and never a masculine brother with any kind of urban flavor. This manuscript changes that. For years, women have been the more communicative gender. Now women will have an idea of what the men in their lives may be thinking; and in some cases, why he thinks a certain way. From now on women will have insight on some of the actions and behaviors portrayed by men, which once may have been deemed judgmental, insensitive, or just plain rude. The author has depicted the male psyche from many different angles on how a man not only perceives women, but relates and responds to them as well.
It’s written in black and white, with a no holds barred approach. Forcing women to take a step back and think a moment before engaging in conversations, relationships, affairs, sexual encounters, etc. with the opposite sex. Keeping it real and delivering the all out truth was no doubt the main focus of the author in writing this piece and ultimately should be respected for just that reason if nothing else. Although candid and direct, this book will prove to be very enlightening as it gives intimate detail on what men are looking for physically, mentally, socially and emotionally vs. what they’re actually witnessing, experiencing and in some cases, tolerating.
A mature and open-minded intellect will really understand and appreciate this representation of the male point of view. This book is the perfect starting point for women to evaluate themselves with a little more detail, before pointing fingers and tossing blame at the endless reasons surrounding why they can’t find a “good man”.
Website:
http://www.thereeducation.com
It’s written in black and white, with a no holds barred approach. Forcing women to take a step back and think a moment before engaging in conversations, relationships, affairs, sexual encounters, etc. with the opposite sex. Keeping it real and delivering the all out truth was no doubt the main focus of the author in writing this piece and ultimately should be respected for just that reason if nothing else. Although candid and direct, this book will prove to be very enlightening as it gives intimate detail on what men are looking for physically, mentally, socially and emotionally vs. what they’re actually witnessing, experiencing and in some cases, tolerating.
A mature and open-minded intellect will really understand and appreciate this representation of the male point of view. This book is the perfect starting point for women to evaluate themselves with a little more detail, before pointing fingers and tossing blame at the endless reasons surrounding why they can’t find a “good man”.
Website:
http://www.thereeducation.com
Author Bio:
The author is a single father, a native of Washington D.C. and he attended Morgan State University . His calm demeanor enabled him to gain a myriad of female friends. In dealing with these friends and family members he came to understand that what they were looking for in men was right in front of them but they didn’t possess the necessary skills to obtain it. Through countless conversations, debates, forums and real life events he was able to put together his first set of thoughts and instructions to the opposite sex. In doing so he noticed a mass amount of interest from females outside of his immediate circle, so he consolidated his thoughts and views on relationships and other topics and put together what is now known as The Re-Education of the female.
Dante Moore Sr.
Author of the bestselling book The Re-Education of the Female
Author of the bestselling book The Re-Education of the Female
Losing Faith by Jessica A. Robinson
Losing Faith
By: Jessica A. Robinson, Author of the forthcoming Holy Seduction
March 2009, Peace In The Storm Publishing
“Ashes to ashes…dust to dust,” Reverend Peterson said as he placed a small amount of earth on the silver and cream casket which contained my father. I took this as my cue to toss the long stemmed red roses I was carrying on top of his casket. I remained in my position and watched as everyone followed my lead and placed their flowers on top of the casket. I wanted to walk away from it all but somehow my feet remained frozen in the same spot as if they were anchored in the muddy grass.
I had been to a dozen funerals in my twenty-one years of life but none of them no matter how sad or tragic they were prepared me for this. None of them prepared me for my own father’s funeral. In fact, since he was the pastor of our church he was usually the one who conducted the funeral. That’s why everything about this day didn’t seem right. The fact that we were even burying my father down to the fact that it snowed overnight in the middle of May made this whole scenario seem unreal to me.
“Baby girl, everything’s gonna be alright…you hear me?” My mother Janetta said as she hugged me tight and wouldn’t let me go. The ground was so damp from the snowstorm the night before that it literally felt like we were standing on quick sand. I had to keep lifting my four-inch stilettos up out of the mud so that I wouldn’t sink. Instead, I held onto my mother real tight as she continued to talk to me.
“Yeah”
“Your father isn’t suffering anymore…I know you miss him but one day if we keep living right we’re going to see him again” she whispered in my ear. I looked into my mother’s green eyes and wanted to answer her but I was too choked up to say anything at all. I just nodded my head in recognition to what she was saying. My mother was such a loving and caring person and usually her words comforted me but this time they did nothing. I knew deep down in my heart what she was telling me was what I needed to hear at the moment but it still didn’t help me.
It’s funny because I remember how many funerals I’ve attended where I’ve told a grieving family or church member the same thing because I felt that’s what they needed to hear and most of all because I felt like that was what God wanted me to say. Now it proved to be a whole different ball game once I had to wear those same shoes.
Those words and statements that escaped from the lips of the people attending my father’s funeral became annoying to me even though they were initially spoken to bring me comfort. So many people had walked up to me and hugged me saying they knew how I felt, they knew what I was going through, and better yet that God had better things for my father to do. I didn’t want to hear all that mumbo-jumbo. What I wanted was for someone to just come up and hug me. They didn’t necessarily have to say anything to me at all just the simple fact of showing me that they cared but not the people at my daddy’s funeral. Everyone felt the need to try and sound like they were super religious by saying all kinds of bible scriptures and spiritual cliché’s. I definitely wasn’t in the mood for all of that.
“We just gotta keep the faith baby and we’re gon’ be okay” my mother gripped me real tight one last time before letting me go. Although I shook my head yes I was even more confused. Up until this point, I considered myself to be a person of great faith. You know someone who believed God could do anything. With my dad being the senior pastor of True Reach Ministries I’ve seen it all. I’ve seen a lame man walk, the mute talk, and I’ve even seen people be healed from all kinds of diseases. That’s why as soon as my father sat me and my two younger brothers down to explain to us that he had pancreatic cancer my faith automatically kicked in. I remember it just like it was yesterday.
“We called this family meeting because we wanted to talk to you three together,” My dad said as he stood up.
“What’s up dad? You called us all together to tell us you’re buying me a car right?” My brother Brian joked and expected for my dad to laugh like he always did when my brother said something stupid but instead he didn’t crack a smile at all. He looked like he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders and I had never really seen my father look this way and to see him like this really scared me. He was usually the one who could take whatever came at him without even breaking into a sweat but there was something deep within his eyes that let me know that what he was about to tell us was serious.
“We’ll talk about your car situation later but right now your mom and I want to talk to you about something a little more serious than that”
Before anyone of us could interrupt him anymore he spoke again.
“You know how I’ve not been feeling good lately and my doctor has been running all kinds of tests on me to try and figure out what was going on with me…well yesterday he called to tell me that I have cancer of the pancreas and the tumor they found was larger than they expected”
“So what does that mean dad?” My youngest brother Chris asked.
“Well they’re saying that with the type of cancer I have and the size of the tumor that I have that it doesn’t look good”
“Okay…so what else did they say?” Brian asked.
“They’ve given me three to six months” he let out a sigh as my mother began to rub his back.
“What three to six months of treatment?” Brian added.
“No son…three to six months to live but listen that’s what the doctor said but we know what we believe”
“That’s right dad…who’s report are you gonna believe”
“The report of the Lord and his word says that it is by his stripes that I am healed” my father declared. The strength in his voice gave me the extra reassurance. It was like after he said that I just knew that everything was going to be alright.
“Daddy I believe when you go back they’re not even going to be able to find any cancer,” I proclaimed.
“That’s my girl” My dad replied.
“Yes and since we know what the word of the Lord says then that’s what we’re going to stand on” My mother said as she grabbed hands with my father and signaled for us to join hands so we could pray. As my mother began to pray, it was like the very presence of God came in and surrounded our family like a blanket and after she was done I was definitely at peace. I just knew God came down and did a miraculous thing that day. I couldn’t wait for the doctor to tell my father that he was cancer free because in my heart I just knew he was.
Upon hearing the initial news, my brother’s took it kind of hard but I think it was something that was pretty hard for all of us to hear. When our parent’s sat us down I expected for them to say all kinds of other things than what they said. Never in a million years would I have expected for my father to tell us he had cancer. If anything he was a complete health fanatic that lived a totally healthy lifestyle so for him to tell us that he had something wrong with him was a complete shocker to us.
He was the type of man who prided himself at inventing new flavors to the health shakes that he drank every morning so for him to take his health that seriously and end up with an illness took us completely by surprise. After we were done praying, my dad motioned for me to come with him in his office. He waited for me to come completely in the room and then he shut the door behind me.
“I know this was real hard for you and your brother’s to hear but your mom and I wanted to be straight up with you all about what was going on”
“Yeah, it was a lot to digest at one time but I know you’ll be fine…it’s just a test to add to your testimony”
“And that’s exactly what it is…and that’s why I wanted to talk to you by yourself…out of all three of my children you are the most like me and I’m going to need you”
“Okay daddy…whatever you need me to do”
“I need you to be strong for your brother’s and your mom...no matter what goes on I need you to remind them of God’s promises…keep your faith”
“Okay, consider it done”
“And baby girl” my dad called out to me as I was leaving his office.
“Yes daddy”
“Don’t worry because I’m going to be just fine and I’m coming out of all of this victorious”
* * *
I was fortunate enough to slip away from the crowd of people who had my immediate family hemmed up like a skirt. I spotted one of my friends from the church getting into her car so I asked her if she would take me home. Once she said yes, I text my brother Brian and told him that I was leaving.
As she drove past all of the cars that made up the funeral procession, my eyes took me back to the place where my father’s casket sat. I looked on as the cemetery worker’s lowered my father into the ground and I wondered where God was in all of this. I mean I was old enough to understand that God was sovereign and that meant that he could do what he wanted to do but what was the purpose of taking a man with so much purpose out of here prematurely? My mind began to run rampant with questions that I needed the answers to.
When I used to get to the place where my mind was cloudy and I needed some advice and some direction I never hesitated to go to my father for guidance and now with him gone I felt completely lost. Where would I go when I needed some sound advice? Who could I confide in and trust to give me good, Godly advice and wouldn’t spread my business everywhere? I had made the habit of going to my dad for just about everything over the years but now I didn’t have that luxury anymore. When I saw them covering up the casket with dirt it was confirmation that I was on my own now and this was definitely a new day.
* * *
“Jade, it’s me…open up” my mother hollered out to me as she knocked on my door. My eyes popped open as she continued to knock on my bedroom door.
“Hold on ma, I’m coming” I yawned and got up from the bed.
When I opened up the door, my mother was fully dressed in a two-piece baby blue church suit.
“I thought you were up but your brothers told me that you were still sleeping so I thought I would come and wake you up”
“Where are you going?” I asked as I went back to my queen size sleigh bed and sat down.
“We’re going to church this morning…I was coming to get you up so that you could get ready and go with us”
“No mom…I don’t think I’m going”
“Baby this is your second Sunday in a row that you haven’t been there…now you know everybody’s going to be asking where you are”
“Just tell them I’m sick again” I got back in bed and pulled the covers over me.
“Jade, I told them you were sick last week, you know there’s no way people are gonna believe that you’re sick two weeks in a row”
“I don’t care ma…I’m not going”
“Okay, I’m not going to argue with you on why you should come but I do want us to talk about all this later when I get home”
“Alright” I let out a sigh as my mother left the room.
Church was the last place I wanted to be right now. Since my father’s death our whole family has been under a magnifying glass. There have been a lot of people surrounding themselves around us but that’s only to see when we’re all going to crack. It’s been driving me absolutely crazy to live my life like I’m on display at the local zoo or something and I refuse to do it. I was just not feeling the whole church scene right now and rather than go to True Reach and make a complete fool out of somebody I chose to stay home.
Besides, I already tried to go to church the Sunday after we laid my father to rest and I couldn’t even stay the entire service. Everything reminded me of my father and the fact that he wasn’t there and I couldn’t deal with the constant reminder. Every time one of the ministers walked up the steps onto the platform I expected for my father to be not too far behind but when I would see one of the ministers coming out dressed in a full-length robe like the one my daddy wore on Sunday mornings I was reminded again of my reality.
* * *
“I wanted to meet with you all so that you could all hear what I had to say together” Dr. Garrett said as we sat across from him in his office. He called our house and told us he wanted to talk to our entire family so we met with him. My parents decided not to include my little brother Chris in the meeting because they felt he was too young to understand everything that was going on. I had a feeling deep down in my stomach that I couldn’t really describe. I could just feel like something was about to happen. I had been praying and fasting about this situation ever since my dad had told us he had cancer four months ago and I was excited about the good news we were about to receive from the doctor.
“So what’s up doc?” My dad asked as he took a deep breath.
“Well I know you remember how we told you that we were going to run those tests on you to check the status of your cancer and to see if there was a change and there has been a change”
I started to smile because I knew the doctor was getting ready to tell us that my dad was completely free of cancer. I could see it on the tip of his tongue.
“What kind of change has there been Dr. Garrett?” My dad asked.
“ Well the cancer has spread since the last time we ran tests on you and we found it’s not only in your pancreas but its moved all over your body and we’ve determined that it’s terminal”
“What? It’s spread that much?” Mom asked the doctor so she could gain a clear understanding of his terminology.
“Yes, I’m afraid it has…at this point there’s really nothing else we can do for you” he folded his hands and waited for our response.
“Thank you Dr. Garrett for everything you’ve done for me…my family and I appreciate everything you and your staff have done” My father stood up and shook the doctor’s hand.
“It was a pleasure having you as a patient and I will be calling you in a week or so to follow up with you and connect you with your new physician” I was confused about what the doctor’s results were. For him to tell us that our father’s cancer was progressively getting worse, he sure didn’t look like it. He still looked like he did when he first told us. He wasn’t in the hospital fighting for his life. He was living his life everyday like he always did and other than him having a couple of bad days he was pretty much okay.
Once the doctor left us alone in his office to talk, my brother Brian was the one to break down first. My dad went over to him and hugged him.
“Brian, please don’t cry…I’m okay”
“Dad, but the doctor said that you’re not getting any better” he said in between his tears.
“I know what Dr. Garrett said but we serve a God who can do more than what we can even think of…I’m going to be alright”
“I think we should pray right now daddy” I suggested.
“That’s exactly what we should do” We joined hands right in Dr. Garrett’s office and prayed that God would begin to do a work and turn this whole situation around but what we didn’t know was that was the very start of things spiraling out of control. Shortly, after our meeting with Dr. Garrett my father started getting really sick. He lost all kind of weight, could barely eat, and spent most of his days sleeping in bed.
Even though he was starting to outwardly show the things that were going on inwardly in his body he still trusted God and I was right by his side trusting Him too. I knew that God had promised him a physical healing and that’s what I expected to see. In the mornings before I went to my college classes, we would pray together. When I came home for the day we would all pray together as a family and we believed with all of our hearts that he was going to get better. My faith wouldn’t allow me to accept anything else. I was basically waiting for God to confirm what I already knew. My father would live and not die.
* * *
“Have you been sleep the whole entire time we’ve been gone” My mother came in the house and removed her baby blue pumps at the door.
“I think so…I don’t even remember falling asleep in the first place…where’s Chris and Brian?”
“They decided to go over your grandmother’s house for dinner and I figured today would be the perfect time to talk”
“Talk about what mom?” I asked. I knew where she wanted to take this conversation and I was trying to avoid it at all cost but I knew with her that wouldn’t be possible.
“About everything that’s been going on lately…about you” my mother replied.
“I’ve been walking around here noticing that you’ve been acting different and its bothering me Jade…you’ve been real quiet, to yourself lately, you haven’t been going to church with us and to be quite honest I’m very concerned about you so is there anything you want to talk about?” she looked at me and could tell I had so much to say but I wasn’t trying to get into that discussion. Not now anyway.
“Ma, I really don’t want to talk about it right now and I haven’t been feeling like going to church lately so can we talk about this later”
“No…I would like to talk about this now…I know you’re dealing with losing your father but God is going to give us the strength to make it through this…we just have to keep trusting him, that’s all”
I let out a chuckle before I completely lost it.
“Oh so that’s what we’re supposed to do is trust him? Well where was he when daddy was sick? Where was he at when we were praying for his healing? He wasn’t anywhere to be found and we thought he was there…Ma I prayed and fasted everyday for God to turn dad’s situation around and he still died…where is God in that? Huh? Can you tell me how God is supposed to be a loving and caring God and he took home one of his own…I don’t see God in that” I cried as I finished what I was saying. My mother sat next to me on the couch and had started to cry with me.
I know she expected me to tell her what was going on with me lately but I know she never expected me to go off like I just did. I had even surprised myself because I didn’t even expect to go off like that but I guess it was something that needed to come out. Until I had confessed that to my mother, I had never said anything to anyone. I felt like a big weight had been lifted up off my chest.
“I know you don’t see God in this but he doesn’t do anything by accident…it was God’s will for things to happen the way we did and even though you may not understand it…he has a purpose and a plan for everything”
“So it was God’s purpose and plan for us to grow up without a father? It was God’s perfect design for us to be out in this world fatherless…he could’ve taken anyone else in the world why did he have to take daddy?” My mother didn’t even attempt to answer me she just grabbed me and pulled me in close to her. She wept as she held me in her arms and I cried uncontrollably as my mind raced and tried to make sense of it all.
“Mommy, I prayed…I trusted God…I did all I knew how to do and he still passed away”
“I know honey...we did all we could but we just have to have faith in God and trust that there is a meaning and a purpose behind all of this”
“The way I’m feeling right now…I’m through with God”
“What? You’re through with God”
“Yes…I’ve been doing a lot of thinking and I’m just done with all of this church stuff for a while…I need to get my head together and God is not my favorite person right now”
“Jade, I know you’re frustrated right now but you can’t denounce the very thing you’ve built your life on”
“Well I’ve served God my whole life and believed every word in the Bible and I know what the word of God says and knowing all of that my father still died so I was thinking of switching things up in my life for a little bit”
“Baby please don’t give up on God…I know you’re hurting but God is here to take away your pain…he’s not the one who even gave you pain”
I had a major bone to pick with God and I wasn’t going to be satisfied until I spoke with God myself. I knew that was foolish of me but that’s how I felt. I needed for him to explain to me his purpose and plan because I was having a difficult time following it and the way I had been feeling lately I wasn’t sure if I still wanted to serve God.
“Wait a minute…I have something that I need to give you” My mother got up and went down the hallway. I saw her walk into my father’s office and shut the door. She came out a minute later with a white envelope in her hand and handed it to me.
“This is for you…it’s from your father”
I opened the white envelope and inside there was a letter addressed to me. I opened the letter all the way and began to read the contents of it.
Dear Baby Girl,
This is probably the hardest letter that I ever had to write but I feel that it’s necessary. I have taken the time to write each one of you letters and have instructed your mom to give them to you when the Lord directed her to. First I want to say that I love you so much and I am so proud to have you as a daughter, you have made me so happy over the years and I thanked God everyday for allowing me and your mom to be your parents.
I know that finding out about my illness and seeing me sick has been real hard on you and even though you’ve kept it together, I know it’s been rough.
You’ve done exactly what I wanted you to do and that was stay strong and keep your faith through this whole ordeal and I must say I am so proud of you but I know dealing with the aftermath of it all you have questions. You’re probably asking God why did all this have to happen to me but it was necessary. You may even be mad at God for not healing me and allowing me to live but you have to understand…this was all a part of his divine plan for your life. God showed me when you were born that you were going to be the one to follow in my footsteps and proclaim the word of God when you got older but with me there for you to lean on it would be hard for you to do that but now is the time. It’s time for you to take your rightful place and enter into your God given destiny. Go forth, my daughter in what God has for you and I’ll see you again.
I love you,
Daddy
As I finished the letter he wrote me, I felt the very presence of God come down and wrap around me like a cashmere blanket. I had been so mad at God for everything that happened and I should’ve been praying and seeking God from the beginning.
I dropped to my knees and began to cry. My mother started praying for me and I could literally feel every weight and measure that had been weighing me down being lifted.
“Lord, I’m so sorry for losin’ the faith in you during this situation. Please forgive me for not trusting in you…I pray right now that you will restore my faith to when I first believed. I know that you do everything for a reason and I pray that you will help me to be strong and get through this, In Jesus name…Amen”
When I finished my heartfelt prayer, tears began to run down my face but this time they weren’t tears of sadness, they were tears of joy. Even though my father had written me such a beautiful letter, I knew it was God’s way of getting my attention. I had allowed myself to be so caught up with the loss of my father that I had forgotten that God was there all the time. He had never left my side the entire time.
He was there in the beginning of it all and he was still there even though I had been mad at him. I had let my circumstances and the way I was feeling to take my eyes off of God but he loved me enough to speak to me through a letter.
I got up from where I had been kneeling on the floor with a renewed strength. I didn’t feel overcome with grief anymore. The burden of dealing with my father’s passing had been removed and I knew that this would be one of the very things that would help me make a difference in someone else’s life.
Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to his purpose.
Copyright Jessica A. Robinson 2008
Peace In The Storm Publishing
http://www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com/
Times are hard
Hard Times….
Times are hard right now, not just for me but for everybody.
I am a hairstylist by profession, and hair, is considered a luxury.
During hard times, it is the first on the list of the things that gets cut back or cut off.
I’ve watched my clients cut back from every week to every 2 weeks to every 6 weeks.
Don’t these guys realize they pay my salary???
SIGH.
I do understand.
I have cut back too. PEDICURES, WAXING, My favorite pizza, driving, cable, movies, and the worse yet MY BOOKS!!!
I can’t afford to spend the $100.00 or more a month on books.
That hurts more than anything and I think I am going thru withdrawal and it’s not pretty.
I am cranky and irritated because I can’t get away from my drama in a great read; Reading has always made me feel better.
It was either whew my life ain’t so bad or I traveled to a far away place and had a mini vacation, or maybe I fell in love and lived happily ever after, even if it was until my next read.
My books are my Calgon, take me away.
So, I am re reading, revisiting, remembering.
I often re read my favorite books.
The Hand I Fan with by Tina McElroy Ansa is my all time favorite book and I religiously re read it once a year. I must visit Herman and Lena once a year, and yes I still cry over the end.
I am re reading Rhythms by Donna Hill, which and whom I totally adore with all my heart.
I am also going to re visit all of my Eric Jerome Dickey, Gloria Naylor, Victor McGlothin and Bernice McFadden books which are on my short list of loves.
I am so grateful I buy when I can.
So when times are hard and I am to broke to buy, I can revisit my hearts, the ones that left a mark on my heart and I consider, my treasures.
My boys who are no longer boys, say “We live in a library”, I just smile and say, Thank God you do. But we can leave, when ever we want to.
Simply Said.
www.simply-said.net
www.myspace.com/odebsimplysaid
odebeb@aol.com
www.simplysaid.ning.com
www.edc-creations.com
Literary Director
Debra Owsley
Times are hard right now, not just for me but for everybody.
I am a hairstylist by profession, and hair, is considered a luxury.
During hard times, it is the first on the list of the things that gets cut back or cut off.
I’ve watched my clients cut back from every week to every 2 weeks to every 6 weeks.
Don’t these guys realize they pay my salary???
SIGH.
I do understand.
I have cut back too. PEDICURES, WAXING, My favorite pizza, driving, cable, movies, and the worse yet MY BOOKS!!!
I can’t afford to spend the $100.00 or more a month on books.
That hurts more than anything and I think I am going thru withdrawal and it’s not pretty.
I am cranky and irritated because I can’t get away from my drama in a great read; Reading has always made me feel better.
It was either whew my life ain’t so bad or I traveled to a far away place and had a mini vacation, or maybe I fell in love and lived happily ever after, even if it was until my next read.
My books are my Calgon, take me away.
So, I am re reading, revisiting, remembering.
I often re read my favorite books.
The Hand I Fan with by Tina McElroy Ansa is my all time favorite book and I religiously re read it once a year. I must visit Herman and Lena once a year, and yes I still cry over the end.
I am re reading Rhythms by Donna Hill, which and whom I totally adore with all my heart.
I am also going to re visit all of my Eric Jerome Dickey, Gloria Naylor, Victor McGlothin and Bernice McFadden books which are on my short list of loves.
I am so grateful I buy when I can.
So when times are hard and I am to broke to buy, I can revisit my hearts, the ones that left a mark on my heart and I consider, my treasures.
My boys who are no longer boys, say “We live in a library”, I just smile and say, Thank God you do. But we can leave, when ever we want to.
Simply Said.
www.simply-said.net
www.myspace.com/odebsimplysaid
odebeb@aol.com
www.simplysaid.ning.com
www.edc-creations.com
Literary Director
Debra Owsley
Homeless
HOMELESS
The thought and desires remain the same
Even though I live in society without a name.
Wishing to belong to the main stream of life
I'm burdened and buried beneath my daily strife's.
I fell behind in the employment scene
Not much put away, I began to live unclean.
Alcohol and drugs became a choice,
I thank God I listened to His heavenly voice.
I pull and struggle despite by defeats
I receive charity for food and clothing, also shoes for my feet.
Most shelter is shabby and at times I walk the city streets
Carefully searching for a place to rest, lay my head and sleep.
Trust comes amongst those who share the life I lead.
For they are aware this is a life minus greed.
I can't disguise my fears with smiles
I become shaken with worry as would a lost child.
Simple pleasures, become impossible wants
People observing, mishievously tease and taunt.
I want good health a job and a place to live
I want to participate in my community, not just receive but also give.
I need to feel I count as well as the average man
I need to feel I belong somewhere in God's plan
Necessities are different when you have no home.
Necessities are different when you're all alone.
Thoughts Copyright 1998
Nanette M. Buchanan
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Path of Life
Path of Life
Walking along this path of life, I watch as the world unfolds
Sights and Sounds, year after year, that ever change as I grow old.
Walking along this path of life, I often become confused.
What good am I to you, or you to me if our strengths are never used.
Walking along this path of life is a journey we all make.
Where we pause or when we stop becomes the result of one's own fate.
Walking along this path of life, I have come to know myself
My sorrows and strife's are not forgotten or put on shelves
I use them as my energy, my source, my wil to live
I walk along this path of life
And give what I have to give.
Thoughts
copyright 1998
Author Nanette M. Buchanan
Get your copy of Thoughts- Part of A Poetic Journey Series
e-book available at www.myspace.com/ipendesigns and www.lulu.com
© 2008 Nanette M. Buchanan
October is an important Awareness Month
The month October touches on two very important issues. October is Domestic Violence Awareness and also National Breast Cancer Awareness. Domestic Violence is represented by the purple ribbon and Breast Cancer is represented by the pink ribbon. Are you or someone you loved affected by either?Breast Cancer
2.3 million women in the United States are living with a breast cancer diagnosis. It’s a scary thing. Anyone regardless of age or race can be affected. It’s important to have regular annual checkouts and more if you have a relative or family member who’s been affected by breast Cancer. Early detective is so important. Reach out to your family and friends for support and
get the facts. Surround yourself by people who love you and reach out to cancer survivors.
RESOURCES:
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
www.nbcam.org
American Cancer Society
Resource Link:
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_6x_National_Breast_Cancer_Awareness_Month.asp
Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence shouldn’t happen to anyone. Don’t settle and never feel you are not worthy of a violence-free environment. Domestic violence goes undetected behind closed doors way too often. Usually the woman or man is embarrassed that it is taken place, they are scared, and they believe or at least hope everything will get better.
“Around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused during her lifetime.”“Nearly one-third of American women (31 percent) report being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives.”
Both statistics were taken from http://endabuse.org/resources/facts/
Know that you have options and there are support groups. Don’t allow yourself and your children to continue to live in an unsafe environment. You are worthy of a better life – we all are.
RESOURCES:
Domestic Violence
http://www.domesticviolence.org/
The National Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-799-7233 (Call within any 50 states. Help is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year)http://www.ndvh.org/
Article written by:
Tinisha Nicole Johnson
Author, Writer and Poet
ARC BOOK CLUB REVIEW
4.0 out of 5 stars Secrets Revealed, October 1, 2008
It's hard enough dealing with the loss of a family member, but when unimaginable secrets come out as a result of the death it can become almost too much to deal with. Darell Q. Mince is a grown man that finds out after 30 years that contrary to his belief his parents aren't married. Distraught and upset at their betrayal, Darrell moves from his parents' home in VA to his own place in Maryland. Just prior to his relocation Darell meets the attractive Deshai who he maintains contact with while in Maryland. Two years after his move Darell must return home for the reading of his father's will. Upon his return to Virginia Darell decides to re-examine his long distance relationship with longtime girlfriend Monique and get to know the irresistible Dershai better. Just when his love life is taking a turn for the better, all other aspects of his life seem to be unraveling at the seams. Shocking revelations about his family tree threaten his budding relationship and result in Darell keeping secrets of his own. Can Darell maintain his sanity throughout the madness that has entered his life?
Nanette Buchanan has concocted one helluva dramatic story! It's nothing new that some men have secrets lives, but the way this story was penned and the spins put on certain situations made this book my guilty pleasure for two days. There were several editing issues that undeniably became a nuisance; however the story in itself was great. I went from rooting for one character to being totally pissed with another in a matter of moments. Yes, this book is certainly a roller coaster ride. I can't even fathom how things turn out in the sequel. Terrific!
Englishruler
ARC Book Club Inc.
Star Rating 4.5 Stars
By Englishruler "ARC Book Club Inc. (www.ARCBOOK... (New York) - See all my reviews
Pre Order "A Different Kind of Love" Today
November 2008 "A Different Kind of Love" Pre Order
PRE ORDER TODAY...THE SEQUEL "A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
WE'RE TAKING PRE ORDERS FOR THE RELEASE OF
"A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
FREE SHIPPING FOR CUSTOMERS THAT PRE ORDER
"A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
DUE TO RELEASE NOVEMBER 2008
THE SECRETS LIES & ALIBI'S CONTINUE
......
Make an on-line slide show at www. OneTrueMedia. com....
GET "FAMILY SECRETS....LIES & ALIBI'S TODAY!!!!
Nanette Buchanan's Debut Novel
We pray and bless the life and soul of our loved ones as they pass on. Their lives as we know them are buried and forever gone with all their indiscretions and secrets. It is only when the haunting truth is uncovered that we find the soul, the spirit, the loved one, the friend is not who we knew at all. How often do we find that they have lived another life parallel to the one we know? Outside lovers, children, homes, finance and interests; all of which somehow become a part of the chaos presented at their funeral, the repast or the reading of the will. What does one do when friends become family? How do relationships change with the death and haunting truth of the riches left behind?
"Family Secrets....Lies & Alibi's" tells the story of D.Q. Mince after his burial. The haunting truths of his life uncover the secrets of his remaining family members. His wife Tonya must face his mistress of thirty years only to find that as his wife she has not been left any of his estate. Tonya Mince will stop at nothing to prevent Nikki Robbins, D.Q.'s lover, and their son Darrell Mince from inheriting D.Q. Enterprises. The haunting truth of D.Q.'s love for Nikki surfaces as his will is read with a confession of his undying love. Nikki is now the new target for Tonya's anger. Darrell and Dershai are not just lovers who didn't want to reveal their relationship to a rich father. The haunting truth of their love must now become their secret. The chaos uncovered the secrets and the lies but the excuses, the alibi's are in the sequel........
"A Different Kind of Love"- Tonya Mince is keeping her own secrets but when the haunting truth uncovers her past she must confess her indiscretions, the blackmail and drama that led her husband to be unfaithful. Darryl and Derek Mince claim their inheritance from their brother and father only to find that their business deals are leading to death threats and promises of revenge. Darrell and Dershai must confront the family with the truth; the secrets that may rattle the roots of the family tree.
GET YOUR COPY TODAY OF "FAMILY SECRETS....LIES & ALIBI'S"
PRE ORDER YOUR COPY OF "A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
www.ipendesigns.com **Click on I Pen Books**
www.myspace.com/ipendesigns
A NEW AUTHOR WITH NEW DRAMA NANETTE M. BUCHANAN
The Family....Secrets, Lies & Alibis continue.......
THE SEQUEL "A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE" NOVEMBER 2008!!!!
"FAMILY SECRETS LIES & ALIBI'S ---Available Now!!!!
$14.95 FREE SHIPPING & HANDLING!!!!!
PRE ORDER TODAY...THE SEQUEL "A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
WE'RE TAKING PRE ORDERS FOR THE RELEASE OF
"A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
FREE SHIPPING FOR CUSTOMERS THAT PRE ORDER
"A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
DUE TO RELEASE NOVEMBER 2008
THE SECRETS LIES & ALIBI'S CONTINUE
......
Make an on-line slide show at www. OneTrueMedia. com....
GET "FAMILY SECRETS....LIES & ALIBI'S TODAY!!!!
Nanette Buchanan's Debut Novel
We pray and bless the life and soul of our loved ones as they pass on. Their lives as we know them are buried and forever gone with all their indiscretions and secrets. It is only when the haunting truth is uncovered that we find the soul, the spirit, the loved one, the friend is not who we knew at all. How often do we find that they have lived another life parallel to the one we know? Outside lovers, children, homes, finance and interests; all of which somehow become a part of the chaos presented at their funeral, the repast or the reading of the will. What does one do when friends become family? How do relationships change with the death and haunting truth of the riches left behind?
"Family Secrets....Lies & Alibi's" tells the story of D.Q. Mince after his burial. The haunting truths of his life uncover the secrets of his remaining family members. His wife Tonya must face his mistress of thirty years only to find that as his wife she has not been left any of his estate. Tonya Mince will stop at nothing to prevent Nikki Robbins, D.Q.'s lover, and their son Darrell Mince from inheriting D.Q. Enterprises. The haunting truth of D.Q.'s love for Nikki surfaces as his will is read with a confession of his undying love. Nikki is now the new target for Tonya's anger. Darrell and Dershai are not just lovers who didn't want to reveal their relationship to a rich father. The haunting truth of their love must now become their secret. The chaos uncovered the secrets and the lies but the excuses, the alibi's are in the sequel........
"A Different Kind of Love"- Tonya Mince is keeping her own secrets but when the haunting truth uncovers her past she must confess her indiscretions, the blackmail and drama that led her husband to be unfaithful. Darryl and Derek Mince claim their inheritance from their brother and father only to find that their business deals are leading to death threats and promises of revenge. Darrell and Dershai must confront the family with the truth; the secrets that may rattle the roots of the family tree.
GET YOUR COPY TODAY OF "FAMILY SECRETS....LIES & ALIBI'S"
PRE ORDER YOUR COPY OF "A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE"
www.ipendesigns.com **Click on I Pen Books**
www.myspace.com/ipendesigns
A NEW AUTHOR WITH NEW DRAMA NANETTE M. BUCHANAN
The Family....Secrets, Lies & Alibis continue.......
THE SEQUEL "A DIFFERENT KIND OF LOVE" NOVEMBER 2008!!!!
"FAMILY SECRETS LIES & ALIBI'S ---Available Now!!!!
$14.95 FREE SHIPPING & HANDLING!!!!!
Interview with author and publisher Jessica Tilles
JESSICA TILLES is a best-selling author, award winning publisher of Xpress Yourself Publishing, LLC and founder of The Writer’s Assistant.
A native of Washington, DC, she is a creative writer in all genres of fiction and non-fiction, with several titles in print: Anything Goes, In My Sisters’ Corner, Apple Tree, Sweet Revenge, Fatal Desire, Unfinished Business, editor of the best-selling anthology, Erogenous Zone: A Sexual Voyage, and contributing author to The Triumph of My Soul edited by Elissa Gabrielle.
Listed in Heather Covington’s Top 100 Literary Divas, Jessica remains humble in her literary endeavors and continues to assist authors with the business of self-publishing through The Writer’s Assistant.
Tell us what motivated you to write this book.
I owe it all to my ex-husband, for telling me that I was not the woman he thought I was, I had no motivation, no ambition, and basically wasn't doing shit with my life. Although his comments hurt deeply, and I also know that they were spoken out of spite, nonetheless they were all the motivation I needed. Four weeks later, I completed Anything Goes. Seven years later, I am divorced with six novels and one anthology in print, the publisher of Xpress Yourself Publishing, with 28 authors, and founder of The Writer's Assistant. Well, I guess I proved him wrong. Wouldn't you say?
Who did you write this book for?
No one. Every word I write, every plot I create, every character I develop, I do for my enjoyment, my pleasure, and sanity. Every sex scene I create, makes me hot. Every sad scene I conjure up, makes me cry. Writing keeps me grounded, true to myself and others, and out of trouble.
Where are you from? What is your favorite book, music, movie, play?
I am a native of Washington, DC, currently residing in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. My favorite book is Groove, Jive and Bang Around by Steve Cannon. I've purchased three copies and each copy has disappeared. The next copy I'll lock up in my safe deposit box! I guess I'm not the only who enjoyed reading the hot, nasty, raunchy work of Steve Cannon. I love R&B and I dibble dabble in a little Easy Listening. My favorite all-time movie, hands down, is The Color Purple! My favorite plays: Well, I don't do plays too much at all. I've enjoyed Tyler Perry plays, but I've enjoyed them better after he turned them into films. Although, I absolutely love Madea. "Halleluyer."
How do you spend your free time? Do you write poetry or sing?
Free time? What in the hell is that? When I'm not glued to my computer, I absolutely get tickled when I know I'm about to watch my favorite reality shows. Not into poetry too much, but I do enjoy spoken word. And sing? Uh, well...I'll stick to writing!
How did you feel when you saw your book on the shelf for the first time?
Extremely blessed and overly excited. When I saw Anything Goes on the shelf, I yelped so loud, you would've thought there was a wounded dog in the bookstore. Definitely a great feeling! And, even more so to see all of my books lined up on the shelves.
What is your process for creating a novel? Do you plot out the story or do the characters speak to you?
Nope, don't do any plotting. I write off the top of my head. It isn't until I reach the end and begin the first stage of re-writes that I begin to mold the novel.
Could you image your life without writing today?
No. I would be lost. I would shrivel up and die. I would probably take my life. But, put a man in my life and ask me that question again. :-) Honestly, no, I could not imagine. Writing is such a huge part of my life, and has been for over seven years. When everyone else is partying and hanging out, I'd rather sit at my computer. There's this saying: "The life of a writer is a lonely one." Whomever said that ain't never lied!
Do you feel writing is for those trained to write or for anyone who has a story to tell?
Writing can be for anyone, as long as they learn the craft and consistently hone their skills. Even the best of the best hone their skills daily by reading the works of others.
As a writer, what are some of the most important things you try to convey to readers through your books?
I really make no attempts to convey anything. I write to entertain. If a reader happens to get something from one of my books, then I think it's a beautiful thing and only adds more motivation for me to write more.
Interview with author John R. Williams
John R Williams was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago, Illinois and is the eldest of three sons. As a product of a single parent home, John discovered a deep appreciation for the arts at an early age through music, poetry and writing. As a child he was exposed to bittersweet life growing up in the inner city. In 2003, John began writing informally. He wrote in a journal daily trying to perfect his writing style. His goal was to master both comedic and dramatic writing. John received no formal training in literature other than reading urban classics and masses of poetry that he usually found at book fairs and in local libraries. He studied the works of urban novelists and allowed his ability to be influenced heavily by these cutting edge authors.
Over time John developed his own unique style. John used his shortcomings as a child and experiences as a young adult to shape his edgy writing style. The stimulus for his literary aggression is oftentimes revealed in his works. If asked, John would tell you that the goal of his writing is to entertain, educate and assist with the human spirit's progression. While pursuing a writing career he also maintained a prominent position at a large Telecommunications company. His hard work brought him success as a Sales Executive. John soon learned how to sell ideas. Over time his profession afforded him the means to truly make a go at professional writing.
In 2004 John focused his efforts and began to explore writing.Within his first year writing professionally John self-published two titles. His first work; a children’s short story and coloring book about the bond between father and son entitled Daddy and Me was a huge success!
His second work, a book he co-authored with his best friend was an immediate success. C.E.L.L Cityfolk Electronically Livin Life: The Secrets We Hide in Our Cell Phones was an engaging endeavor with a strong storyline about three best friends living, working and playing in Chicago that expose the hidden world of wireless treachery.
In 2006 What Could Have Been? The Saint, The Sinner and The Attempt was released. It was his 1st independent novel. Books simply flew off the shelves! John participates in charity and community events on a regular basis and attributes his love for hip-hop and the entrepreneurial spirit as his main motivators. In his free time John can be seen frequenting just about any Neo-Soul Café, poetry reading or urban hotspot in any major U.S metropolis. Please support John’s efforts by purchasing copies of his books!!
Over time John developed his own unique style. John used his shortcomings as a child and experiences as a young adult to shape his edgy writing style. The stimulus for his literary aggression is oftentimes revealed in his works. If asked, John would tell you that the goal of his writing is to entertain, educate and assist with the human spirit's progression. While pursuing a writing career he also maintained a prominent position at a large Telecommunications company. His hard work brought him success as a Sales Executive. John soon learned how to sell ideas. Over time his profession afforded him the means to truly make a go at professional writing.
In 2004 John focused his efforts and began to explore writing.Within his first year writing professionally John self-published two titles. His first work; a children’s short story and coloring book about the bond between father and son entitled Daddy and Me was a huge success!
His second work, a book he co-authored with his best friend was an immediate success. C.E.L.L Cityfolk Electronically Livin Life: The Secrets We Hide in Our Cell Phones was an engaging endeavor with a strong storyline about three best friends living, working and playing in Chicago that expose the hidden world of wireless treachery.
In 2006 What Could Have Been? The Saint, The Sinner and The Attempt was released. It was his 1st independent novel. Books simply flew off the shelves! John participates in charity and community events on a regular basis and attributes his love for hip-hop and the entrepreneurial spirit as his main motivators. In his free time John can be seen frequenting just about any Neo-Soul Café, poetry reading or urban hotspot in any major U.S metropolis. Please support John’s efforts by purchasing copies of his books!!
· Tell us what motivated you to write this book
Last year I attended my own 10-year class reunion. Seeing all of the old familiar faces and reconnecting with classmates made me a bit nostalgic. On the flipside of things, I felt that a connection with the idea that people can find that lost thing. Whether it was closing a door that should have been shut or opening one that should have never closed. During that magical weekend some of the things I saw, experienced and involved myself in needed to be immortalized in the pages.
· Who did you write this book for?
I wrote this book for anyone that believes in love. This book is anyone who’s been homesick or somehow lost themselves when they got grown. I wrote this book for everyone who enjoyed their youth and lived wild and free. Most importantly I wrote it for myself. I was able to close a few chapters in my own life with this project.
· Bring your 3 main characters to life.
Tell us who they are and what you love about them.
Character #1-Sean Jiles/ He is an educated college graduate with a lot of charisma and a way with words. Physically he has that uncommon smooth that only comes with practice. He is handsome but far from pretty, sexy but not a snob; he has style but enjoys the simple things in life. At times he is a bit too caring and has trouble with conflict. He is very goal driven but takes great care with the things he loves such as his companion or his writing.
Character #2-Eva Jones/She is a bitch on wheels. Eva is an insanely jealous, insecure, fiery vixen with a killer body and a lot of street smarts. She is sneaky and fake. She can lie to anyone with a straight face and she is very controlling when it comes to her own possessions. She can’t imagine how the world would function without her, she is arrogant and devious. Sean’s perfect polar opposite.
Character #3-The City of Chicago/ In The Reunion I use the city of Chicago as a character. Chicago is my hometown. Having been born and raised there I know the Chicago ’s good, its bad and its ugly. I use the city’s bright lights, marvelous locales and propensities to create a mood. I want my readers to see how Chicago can embrace you like one of its sons or provide the perfect backdrop for any kind of mayhem. It’s one of the most beautiful ugly towns in the world.
· How do you spend your free time? Do you write poetry or sing?
I spend my free time trying to better myself mentally and emotionally. I had a very rough upbringing as a child. I made a promise to myself to break the cycle. I wanted to be someone that my son could look up to and be proud to call his dad. If I had to give examples I would tell you that I try to exercise at least 3-4 times a week. I would tell you that I consider myself to be a guy’s guy. I love sports, classic cars, a good challenge and seeing beautiful things. Truly I am just a regular dude with a gift.
· What is your process for creating a novel? Do you plot out the story or do the characters speak to you?
For me a great novel begins with a phenomenal idea or premise. Many of the books I consider to be well written always have (3) things in common. They have complex characters, a good storyline that is identifiable and they contain turmoil or inner conflict of some sort. I always begin with the end in mind. I already know how I want each of my stories to end, it’s getting there that makes it challenging. I plot out events and try to stick to a timeline. I have been successful with that formula.
John R. Williams-THE Author
http://www.theauthor.us/
Last year I attended my own 10-year class reunion. Seeing all of the old familiar faces and reconnecting with classmates made me a bit nostalgic. On the flipside of things, I felt that a connection with the idea that people can find that lost thing. Whether it was closing a door that should have been shut or opening one that should have never closed. During that magical weekend some of the things I saw, experienced and involved myself in needed to be immortalized in the pages.
· Who did you write this book for?
I wrote this book for anyone that believes in love. This book is anyone who’s been homesick or somehow lost themselves when they got grown. I wrote this book for everyone who enjoyed their youth and lived wild and free. Most importantly I wrote it for myself. I was able to close a few chapters in my own life with this project.
· Bring your 3 main characters to life.
Tell us who they are and what you love about them.
Character #1-Sean Jiles/ He is an educated college graduate with a lot of charisma and a way with words. Physically he has that uncommon smooth that only comes with practice. He is handsome but far from pretty, sexy but not a snob; he has style but enjoys the simple things in life. At times he is a bit too caring and has trouble with conflict. He is very goal driven but takes great care with the things he loves such as his companion or his writing.
Character #2-Eva Jones/She is a bitch on wheels. Eva is an insanely jealous, insecure, fiery vixen with a killer body and a lot of street smarts. She is sneaky and fake. She can lie to anyone with a straight face and she is very controlling when it comes to her own possessions. She can’t imagine how the world would function without her, she is arrogant and devious. Sean’s perfect polar opposite.
Character #3-The City of Chicago/ In The Reunion I use the city of Chicago as a character. Chicago is my hometown. Having been born and raised there I know the Chicago ’s good, its bad and its ugly. I use the city’s bright lights, marvelous locales and propensities to create a mood. I want my readers to see how Chicago can embrace you like one of its sons or provide the perfect backdrop for any kind of mayhem. It’s one of the most beautiful ugly towns in the world.
· How do you spend your free time? Do you write poetry or sing?
I spend my free time trying to better myself mentally and emotionally. I had a very rough upbringing as a child. I made a promise to myself to break the cycle. I wanted to be someone that my son could look up to and be proud to call his dad. If I had to give examples I would tell you that I try to exercise at least 3-4 times a week. I would tell you that I consider myself to be a guy’s guy. I love sports, classic cars, a good challenge and seeing beautiful things. Truly I am just a regular dude with a gift.
· What is your process for creating a novel? Do you plot out the story or do the characters speak to you?
For me a great novel begins with a phenomenal idea or premise. Many of the books I consider to be well written always have (3) things in common. They have complex characters, a good storyline that is identifiable and they contain turmoil or inner conflict of some sort. I always begin with the end in mind. I already know how I want each of my stories to end, it’s getting there that makes it challenging. I plot out events and try to stick to a timeline. I have been successful with that formula.
John R. Williams-THE Author
http://www.theauthor.us/
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