Excerpt from Mama Ruby by Mary Monroe

Mama Ruby by Mary Monroe
Prequel to the Upper Room

If you are a fan of Toni Morrison and Zora Neale Hurston, you will love Mama Ruby and the writings of Mary Monroe!

New York Times bestselling author Mary Monroe presents an unforgettable tale featuring Mama Ruby, the indomitable heroine of her acclaimed novel The Upper Room. Now readers will get a peek into Ruby’s early years, as she transforms from a spoiled small-town girl into one of the South’s most notorious and volatile women…

Growing up in Shreveport, Louisiana, Ruby Jean Upshaw is the kind of girl who knows what she wants and knows how to get it. By the time she’s fifteen, Ruby has developed a taste for fast men and cheap liquor, and not even her preacher daddy can set her straight. Most everyone in the neighborhood knows you don’t cross Ruby. Only Othella Mae Cartier, daughter of the town tramp, understands what makes Ruby tick.

When Ruby discovers she’s in the family way, she’s scared for the first time in her life. After hiding her growing belly with baggy dresses, Ruby secretly gives birth to a baby girl at Othella’s house. With few choices, Othella talks Ruby into giving the child away and with the help of a shocking revelation, convinces Ruby to run off with her to New Orleans.

But nothing can erase Ruby’s memories of the child she lost or quell her simmering rage at Othella for persuading her to let her precious baby go. If there’s a fine line between best friend and worst nightmare, Ruby is surely treading it. Because someday, there will be a reckoning. And when it comes, Othella will learn the hard way that no one knows how to exact revenge quite like Ruby Jean Upshaw!

Excerpt from Mama Ruby by Mary Monroe

Mama Ruby - Coming June 1, 2011!

How did Ruby and Othella Mae come to be who they are today? Find out in the exciting prequel to The Upper Room. There’s a fine line between best friend and worst nightmare…but there will be a reckoning....


Introduction to Mama Ruby Prequel to The Upper Room

Originally published in 1985, Mary Monroe's engaging debut novel, The Upper Room, features Ruby Montgomery, an obese, indomitable character who steals her best friend's baby daughter and flees to rural Florida, where she establishes herself as an almost mythical figure. The dialogue and setting are reminiscent of Zora Neale Hurston. The Upper Room by Mary Monroe is a candid portrayal of the cold-blooded yet fascinating Mama Ruby.


~ Shreveport, Louisiana, 1934 ~

Nobody ever had to tell Ruby Jean Upshaw that she was special, but she heard it from every member of her family, her father’s congregation, her classmates, and even the people in her neighborhood almost every day. She was the seventh daughter of a seventh daughter. To some black folks, that was a very high position on the food chain. It meant that she had mystical abilities usually associated with Biblical icons. But as a child, Ruby didn’t care one way or the other about being “special” like that.

She balked when people insisted that she’d eventually have “healing hands” and the ability to “predict the future” like other seventh daughters of seventh daughters. But Ruby didn’t care about healing anybody, that was God’s job, and those snake oil salesmen who rolled through town from time to time. And she certainly didn’t want to be telling anybody what the future held for them. Because if it was something bad, they didn’t need to know, and she didn’t want to know.

The bottom line was, and she’d told a lot of people this when they brought it up, she didn’t want those responsibilities. The last thing she needed cluttering up her life was a bunch of superstitious people taking up her time, and drawing unwanted attention to her. Just being the daughter of a preacher was enough of a burden.

And since Ruby was the youngest member of the Upshaw family, her parents watched her like a hawk, and tried to monitor and control most of her activities. “Why do I have to go to church every Sunday?” she asked her mother one Sunday morning when she was just eight. “I want to have some fun!”

“You go to church because you are supposed to, gal. How would it look to the rest of your Papa’s congregation if his own daughter don’t come to church?” Ida replied, giving Ruby a stern look. “Don’t you want to be saved?”

“Saved from what, Mama?” Ruby questioned, looking out of the living room window at the kids across the street building a tent in their front yard.

“Saved from the world, worldly ways. This planet is full of all kinds of pitfalls out there waitin’ on a girl like you. Drinkin’. Men with more lust in their heads than brain matter. Violence. Loud music and sleazy outfits that would shock a harlot,” Ida answered.

Ruby already knew all of that. From what she’d been able to determine; it was a lot more fun to be “worldly” than it was to be the way her parents wanted her to be.  “I want to have some fun like the rest of the kids!” she pouted, knowing that she faced a no-win situation. Her parents’ minds were as nimble as concrete. Once they laid down the rules for Ruby, there were no exceptions.

“You can still have fun and keep yourself virtuous,” her father insisted. “Me and Mother ain’t makin’ you do nothin’ we didn’t make your sisters do, and look how well they all turned out.”

Ruby pressed her lips together to keep from laughing. Before they got married, all six of her older sisters snuck out of the house at night, drank alcohol, slept with men, and wore clothes that would shock a harlot. That was the life that Ruby thought she wanted, and she had already started on the journey that would lead her to a life of fun and frivolity. And as far as violence, she wondered what her over bearing, but naïve, parents would say if they knew that she was already carrying a switchblade in her sock.

Ruby made good grades in school and she had a lot of friends, but it was hard for her to maintain both. She didn’t like to study, and she didn’t like having to attend that run down school four blocks from her house. Those activities took up too much of her time. She appreciated the fact that her classmates and playmates were at her beck and call, not because they liked her, but because they feared her. They all knew about that switchblade she carried in her sock, and they all knew that she was not afraid to use it. She was the most feared eight-year-old in the state.

(continued)


© 2011 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author and the publisher, Kensington Publishing Group. This excerpt has been adapted for Internet viewing. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the publisher's written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. Share a link to this page or the author's website if you really like this promotional excerpt.

About the Author
Mary Monroe is the author of the award-winning, New York Times bestselling God series, which includes God Don’t Like Ugly and God Ain’t Blind. Mary Monroe is the third child of Alabama sharecroppers and the first and only member of her family to finish high school. One of her proudest moments was when she became a winner of the PEN/Oakland Josephine Miles Award.

She is currently celebrating the release of Mama Ruby, the prequel to the Upper Room, the book that started it all. She still writes seven days a week and gets most of her ideas from current events, and the people around her, but most of her material is autobiographical.

Mary Monroe currently lives in Oakland, California. She is divorced, loves to travel, loves to mingle with other authors, and she'll read anything by Ernest Gaines, Stephen King, Alice Walker, and James Patterson.  Author website: http://www.marymonroe.org/



Mama Ruby by Mary Monroe
Hardcover: 336 pages
Publisher: Dafina (May 31, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0758238614
ISBN-13: 978-0758238610

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Intimate Conversation with Ivette Attaud

Intimate Conversation with Ivette Attaud

On BAN Radio Show w/ Ella Curry
Monday, June 13, 2011 at 8-9pm EST
Call in to join the show:  646.200.0402

Ivette Attaud, a Harlem, New York native and former Fort Bragg Army wife, has been a survivor of domestic violence and abuse for over twenty years. Ivette served on the Battered Women’s Justice Committee of Voices of Women Organizing Project in New York as well as contributed research regarding law guardians to their report Justice Denied: How Family Courts in NYC Endanger Battered Women and Children. She received a Certificate of Completion in Victim Assistance Training from the New York State Office For Victims of Crime; has received numerous awards for speaking at high schools and colleges; created and facilitated a domestic violence and abuse training for Chaplains called Healing The Body Before The Spirit and talks to teens in various high schools about dating violence and their internet footprint. 

Ivette Attaud, publisher, a gifted author, highly sought-after motivational speaker and domestic violence expert, developed Healing The Body Before The Spirit, a domestic abuse educational workshop for the faith-based community. She has written numerous articles, including a recently-published article entitled Surviving the Loss of a Child for Spotlight On Recovery Magazine. More information can be found online at: http://www.mylifemysoul.com/. 

Domestic violence affects two to four million people alone in the United States including teenagers and 54% of parents admit they haven’t spoken to their teen about dating violence or healthy relationships.

My Life My Soul, Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship  is an honest and graphic true story of Ivette Attaud’s dating relationship as a teen and how it quickly manifested into a destructive, violent and psychologically abusive marriage. Ivette puts a face on domestic violence as she describes how she was able to break the emotional and psychological chains of her abuser.

Ivette recounts vivid memories of growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness; her experience with dating violence; her battle with depression; a suicide attempt; the loss of her infant twin daughter to a domestic violence assault and re-victimization by the New York City family court system, including actual documents! In the first part of this three-part series, My Life My Soul, Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship: Part 1 – Surviving, Ivette lays bare the life-long difficulties those in abusive relationships face.

BPM: Ivette, when did you begin writing? When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I was born and raised in Harlem. I started keeping a journal about 10 years ago to release some of the emotional pain and trauma I had been dealing with since I left my abuser and to leave something for my children so they could gain some insight as to what I went through and maybe help them deal with their issues when they became adults. I didn't consider myself as just a writer; I considered myself a person with an important story to tell.

BPM: Do you see writing as a career now?

Yes, I do. I am a true entrepreneur at heart! I launched My Life My Soul, The Unspoken Journey of Life After Domestic Abuse to raise awareness about domestic violence and abuse and also launched MLMS Publishing to release my first book.

 

BPM: What inspired you to write your first book, My Life, My Soul? How did you come up with the title? Who designed the book cover?

I wrote this book as a way to cope with the loneliness and isolation that is felt by survivors of an abusive relationship, and to deal with the grief of losing my child as a result of the abuse. I experienced writer's block frequently, as this is a difficult topic to write about. Over 15 years ago, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as a result of the abuse, and one of the primary symptoms is re-living the trauma. It took me 10 years to write this because I needed to deal with the book setting off my triggers.

When I was invited to speak in public about my experience and scores of people approached me with positive feedback and shared their experiences with me, I believed that my book could help a lot of people. When I saw the statistics on teen dating violence, I included my experience with that as well.

I designed the cover myself to show that real freedom does exist for the survivor when they break the emotional and psychological chains of their abuser. My Life, My Soul - Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship: The title is a reflection of the physical violence and psychological abuse that threatened my life and the spiritual abuse that jeopardized my soul; and that leaving an abusive relationship is about breaking the chains that bind you.

BPM: Do you attempt to avoid the temptation of interjecting your own morals, value system or ministry in your writing?

Including my belief system in the book was important because the reader will not only understand how my belief system contributed to my being in an abusive relationship, but will see how I went about changing my belief system in order to break the chains of abuse and improve the quality of life for me and my children.

BPM: What insight does the book give teen readers on relationships?

The whole book is based on my experiences. I didn't want my book to be a glossed-over version of an abusive relationship. I wanted it to be as real to the reader as it was to me, so there is graphic language in the book. Not because that is my writing style, but because that is the true nature of domestic violence. 

The book gives the reader insight on what a person in an abusive relationship goes through. It also helps the reader understand the isolation that survivors of relationship abuse go through. And, more importantly, that you can live a happy and fulfilling life after an abusive relationship.

BPM: What was the hardest part of writing your book?

As a result of the abuse, I was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. One of the symptoms of PTSD is re-living the experience. Writing this book meant that I re-lived the experience over and over again, including when I lost my daughter. Although writing this book will help a lot of people, it set off my triggers, which I have learned to manage. That is why it took me so long to complete it. But, the more I wrote, the easier it got to deal with and that meant I was on my healing journey.

BPM: Did you learn anything from writing My Life, My Soul and what was it?

We go through things in life for a reason. I was able to take a negative and turn it into a positive so I would be in a better position to heal and help others. I learned a lot about myself and what constituted an unhealthy relationship. I was also able to see how I’ve grown psychologically and emotionally from my teenage years, all the way to adulthood. Understanding where you’ve come from is crucial to knowing where you’re going. I also learned that I have a very powerful gift for helping people past obstacles in life that may be holding them back from achieving their goals. So, I am also a Personal Life Coach.

BPM: Is there anything that makes your book different from others in the same genre?

I write in a style that makes the reader feel as if I’m talking directly to them. While I was going through my experience, I told a lot of people about the abuse, including the military police, doctors, even the NYC family court system, and no one believed that an enlisted service member could be capable of abuse. As a result, my children and I fell through the cracks and no one did anything to protect us. Not only do I include actual court documents and excerpts in my book, but I mention the names of the people who pushed my children and I through the cracks, including judges. From what I’ve read over the years, there are a lot of people out there who have experienced the same thing.

BPM: What messages in your book, My Life, My Soul, do you want readers to grasp?

The book contains several messages: it inspires and gives hope to the survivor who is currently in or who has left an abusive relationship so they know they’re not alone; it’s an example for the families and friends of the survivor to know what NOT to do and say; it’s for parents and teens who want to know about the red flags of an abusive relationship and it’s for the professional who works with those who have experienced domestic violence and/or abuse. The reader has a birds-eye view of what the daily reality is like for someone going through an abusive relationship, whether you are a teen or an adult. I remember what my thought process was like as a teenager. I believe there is always something to learn from someone else’s experience.

BPM: In writing your book, how much legal research was required, if any?

I still have the court documents I received when my abuser took me to court. When I decided to publish this book, I went to family court to review my family court file and see if there were any additional documents in it. To my surprise, there were court documents in my file that I knew nothing about. I decided to include those documents in my book.

BPM: What should readers DO after reading this book? 

Readers who have a friend or a loved one who is in an/was in abusive relationship, and they want to have a better understanding of what they've experienced should read the book. Survivors of domestic violence and abuse internalize a lot of their trauma, and we don't talk about it too much. My book details the thought process of someone in an abusive relationship.

BPM: Now, let’s talk about the publishing industry. How did you initially break into the publishing industry? What road did you travel?

I initially decided to use a subsidy publisher some months ago. But the publishing industry changes so quickly, and more self-publishing resources became available to me, that I decided to fund the publishing of the book myself. It is a common myth that if you use a subsidy publisher, and they offer you a marketing package, that they will market your book. Their goal is to make money from the author. Regardless of the publishing method used, it will always be the author's responsibility to market the book themselves. I decided to independently publish because I am a true entrepreneur at heart (it runs in my family), and I love the challenges of running my own business.

BPM: How do you feel about self-publishing? How do feel about selling digital books vs. selling in a brick and mortar store?

It depends on what the author defines as self-publishing. I prefer the term Independent Publisher. It could be a subsidy publisher, or completely funding the publishing of the book yourself. The traditional publishing industry is slowly changing their bias against self-publishers. The choice between selling digital books vs. selling in a brick and mortar store goes back to the first question - what your goal is for writing your book. Both still require a lot of hard work on the part of the author to get their book in either channel. My Life, My Soul will be available in print and as an e-book in order to make the book available to everyone. 

I want to re-emphasize that understanding your goal for writing your book is important. If you want to independently publish your book, you need to understand how the industry operates. For example, if an author plans on publishing independently out of his or her own pocket, and is working hard to market and promote that book, just know that all your hard work may be in jeopardy. I have seen many self-publishers disillusioned by the publishing industry because they don't make much money from the sale of their books. That is because while selling online is an important part of marketing and promoting your book, if they've listed their book at online retailers, they will undercut the author's price by selling their books at a discount. 

BPM: Awesome advice! Do you have any more advice for other writers? Do you have any advice for people seeking to publish a book?

There is a story inside everyone and someone will definitely benefit from what you have to say. I would advise anyone wanting to publish a book to do ask themselves the following questions: Why am I writing it and what are my goals? What results do I want to see from publishing this book? Am I ready to take on the challenges of publishing it myself and not use a subsidy publisher? What do I expect from a subsidy publisher? Do I have the resources to market this book? Do I want to make $1-2 dollars in royalties for my book, or do I want to keep more money in my pocket?

BPM: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time or culture to another. Finish this sentence- “My writing offers the following legacy to future readers and new authors... ”

To blaze new paths in your writing and publishing journey and to not be afraid of the challenges. I am happy to say that after 10 years of writing and two years of promotion, that My Life, My Soul – Surviving, Healing & Thriving After An Abusive Relationship – Part 1: Surviving, is now available to make a difference in someone's life!

My Life My Soul tells readers things that someone in an abusive relationship, whether it is your loved one or friend, won’t tell you. It contains my deepest thoughts and feelings from when I first entered an abusive relationship at 16 through to an abusive marriage as an adult. I have included actual court documents as proof of how my children and I fell through the cracks of the systems designed to protect those in abusive relationship. You can view the book trailer and purchase the book at  http://www.mylifemysoul.com/ 

 

BPM: What has been your most difficult hurdle to leap? Marketing, promotions or gaining media exposure, etc. How can EDC Creations and our readers help you?

The most difficult hurdle is in converting the level of interest in the book into actual sales. As an author and publisher, I wear many hats. Not only am I responsible for the health of my business, but I'm also responsible for making the strongest efforts possible in my marketing and media exposure to make sure my book gets into the hands of those that can really benefit from it.

BPM: Share with us your latest news. How may our readers follow you online? 

Readers can follow me on Twitter - @ivetteattaud or on Facebook. They can also email me directly at ivetteattaud@mylifemysoul.com  

Domestic violence is devastating. Understand how to better help a friend or loved one.

Purchase My Life, My Soul - Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship, Part 1: Surviving on www.mylifemysoul.com! 

My Life, My Soul - Surviving, Healing And Thriving After An Abusive Relationship 

Part 1 – Surviving by Ivette Attaud

US $15.95; Nonfiction; ISBN-13: 978-0615440613 

Purchase books here:  http://www.mylifemysoul.com/

Disclaimer: 

The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views of Black Pearls Magazine, EDC Creations or the owners. We are not to be held liable for the statements of the authors. Submission to EDC Creations confirms that the guest writers agree with all of the terms listed and give us permission to display their original work, book excerpts, written and oral interviews and links. The writers are also confirming that they own all rights to the material submitted to EDC Creations and that all statements are true and not malicious. Submission to EDC Creations confirms that the author understands he/she is responsible for all legal enquiries into material submitted. 

80 Proof Lives (YA Fiction) Pearl Pick

Featured BPM Teen Read

April 2011 -  80 Proof Lives (YA Fiction)

80 Proof Lives (YA Fiction)   Debut Novel by Felicia S.W. Thomas

Felicia S.W. Thomas is the author of 80 Proof Lives, her debut novel, which was released in February 2011 and published by Amani Publishing, LLC, in Tallahassee, Florida.

Felicia holds a B.S. degree in Journalism from Florida A&M University, and a Juris Doctorate degree from Florida State University. Felicia practices Unemployment Law. She is also an editor, as well as a freelance writer. Felicia currently lives in Quincy, Florida, with her husband and three children. She is hard at work on a sequel to her debut novel and other creative titles.


80 Proof Lives (YA Fiction)
Primary Subject Matter: Coming of age, cautionary tale that touches upon many issues young adults struggle with today.  80 Proof Lives is a young adult novel set in a small, southern town where graduation is optional but a life of despair seems mandatory.

This is the story of Fla (rhymes with clay), a 15-year-old girl who is brilliant but ignorant that she's supposed to be somebody great, because her emotionally abusive, alcoholic mother stifles her dreams and forces her to work for Miss Lipstick, the queen of the bootleg business and the local madam.

While working for Miss Lipstick during the summer of 1976, Fla learns why some people live inside a liquor bottle, as well as some life-changing information about herself that could plunge her into an 80 Proof life, or break that bottle hanging over her head to become somebody great.

~~ Now on the summer reading list for Crossroad Academy Charter School ~~



80 Proof Lives Book Review
Fla's plight is handled expertly by author Felicia Thomas in her ground-breaking new book 80 Proof Lives. The reader is moved to cry or to celebrate with Fla as she determinedly makes her way through her fifteenth year of a cruel life. Finally, Thomas brings the reader up short with an unpredicted plot twist that explains a great deal and may cause the reader to thunk herself in the head and ask, "Why didn't I see that coming?"

The author ties up loose ends and brings the novel to a satisfactory close. While closure is good, this reviewer still wonders what lies ahead for Fla and can only hope that this is the first in a series that follows Fla into what will undoubtedly be an interesting adulthood.  -- Liz Jameson, Reviewer



Website: www.feliciaswthomas.com
E-mail: feliciathomas917@hotmail.com


Purchase from Amazon, GO HERE

ISBN-10: 9780981584775
ISBN-13: 978-0981584775
Target audience: 13 and older

Intimate Conversation with Laurence “Lonz” Cook

Intimate Conversation with Laurence “Lonz” Cook

Laurence Cook, a Marine Corps veteran, educator, and technology professional has written professionally for years. He’s a graduate of the Marine Corps Command and Staff College and holds a Masters of Science Degree. His creativity helped fellow service members passionately communicate with their loved ones during deployments. Along his career, friends and relatives pushed him to write creatively; there came his novel debut "Good Guys Finish Last."

BPM: What makes you powerful as a person, parent and a writer?

As a writer, the ability to influence and develop through multiple messages makes one extremely powerful. Especially when provoking thought certain social behavior through readers, it’s amazingly powerful. When readers finish the novel, they tend to contemplate their behavior on social events. In A Choice to Yield, either they admit to a misbelief or stereo type, based on someone’s look, ethnicity, or gender, or assess members of their social circle. 

Parenting is challenging within itself. You never knew you could love so greatly until you embrace the little person and realize he/she is of you and your responsibility. Power then becomes relevant to how we envision our children for the future and focus on outcome of the child. We do what’s necessary to teach, nurture, and lead so children are capable of enduring life’s challenges. In my case, they lead me to power as realization took hold on their dependency for leadership and guidance. Yet, the greatest power given is their pure love and trust. There lies what makes me a powerful parent, giving love, guidance, and nurturing to their success. (And closing the door so they don’t return...the real parental power.) 

A powerful person is challenging in defining, and yet quite simple. Power for me comes in continued social contributions, equally sharing in reflecting a positive image, and uplifting through spiritual means. Not only is there influence in my acts, but there is sincerity in association with others. My interactions with many allows an immediate impact, either they view me as someone to communicate with, or someone to emulate. The power for me lies in the ability to communicate, and communicate sensibly to those with a thirst for motivation. Especially when influencing behavior change through an emotional impact. Usually in my conversation there is a parable, a message, something to spark positive thought, and therefore hopefully ignite a following act. The result is often someone traveling a new direction. Especially in social change. 

BPM: How much of what you write reflects on your outlook on life?

Much of my life’s outlook is reflected or written in the few authored novels. My stories connect a number of romantic events where acts and ideas are actually past experiences. Yet, those actions are embellished for sensational reading.  Every author shares a piece of them in their novels. In romance, either its common dating failures, where man deciphers a woman’s message differently than she expects or it’s being the recipient of a woman advice when challenging women’s behavior. These events structured the story of my novel. For example, my experience meeting women for the first time left common questions such as:

“What type of man did I present? What type of impression did I leave? Will you I get a follow up call or was I charming enough to get passed her checklist? Did I say something wrong or did I get it right meeting her expectations? Will she enjoy my idea of romance? Is one rose enough for the impression, or is she a dozen roses or floral bunch type? Will she enjoy simple acts of kindness or will my actions be considered a nice gesture instead of a spark of romance?”

These questions are commonly encountered and surely ignites controversy in a “She said-He heard” conversational spectrum. Therefore, the experience in dating, love, and marriage, is surely reflective in my writing.  Also my outlook on life varies with the way men and women interact. My observations are of our rituals of dating and exploring personalities and character, and forming belief from social practices. My belief sits with worldly events, or shared in conversations held with many people who discuss relationships. My outlook sits with a transition of historical events, where people once saw each other in a horrifying light, and later travel the same path realizing life has one major road to travel. 

BPM: Who are your mentors? Where do you find your inspiration?

My first mentor is my best friend, my father. The late Reverend Doctor F. Francis Cooke, a minister who served the community for years. He graduated from Princeton during a time when African Americans were extremely few in attendance. He was a great organizer, a grant obtainer, and created the Joint Partnership Training Consortium in Augusta GA. He worked closely with Dr. King on Civil Rights in the Central Savannah River Area (GA) and also a great contributor to the Medical College of Georgia Mental Health Training. He was my mentor, a guy who spoke five languages, including Hebrew fluently. 

My second mentor is a Sergeant Major of Marines, Leonard Roland, a guy who communicated well with everyone, was firm and fair, and yet shared a compassion for life. He was a true leader. 

The greatest inspiration for writing is my love to tell a great story. It’s a natural capability and sparked from an event in my life or something observed where it’s worth sharing. Love and relationships are evolving entities, where we as a people are taught how to interact, create, and endure via mainstream media. The finesse in having or living a relationship is leaving us per each generation. When I observe a situation worth conveying, it inspires me to create a story with a message solely based on behavior. For instance, as a gentleman, I’m told chivalry is dead or no longer seen. My thought is different as it’s seen but not as common. In this case, it sparks the idea of creating a “Gentleman’s Guide” where chivalry is a theme.

BPM: What do you think of the increasingly gratuitous sex in African American literature? 

“Sex sales,” is often what most readers and authors hear as a response from marketing, publishers, and editors. However, when sex is sensationalized to the extent of losing the story’s finesse, it becomes another institution of stereo typical illusion of our behavior. Just like the myth of sexuality hit our race in the 1860s after freedom, it’s a way other people expand on our customs and behavior. In essence the sexual sensationalism feeds into the expected public behavior other races/ethnicities has of African American people. 

My view, is the African American literature plays heavily into the main stream of expectation, where it forms the reflection of what people think our social realm resembles. However, when sex is tasteful, respectful, and directs romantic notions, there is a difference. Because books influence, as an author, I take responsibility of encouraging change. There are methods of writing erotic scenes without being blatantly graphic. So when a youthful mind explores a rated R novel, it isn’t quite an instruction manual and it leaves room for the imagination. 

BPM: What three elements complete a formula for Happiness, Success or Freedom?

Following your passion alone is a huge element of success. The challenge is finding the passion and creating a lifestyle around it. Step out on faith from corporate jobs, find a way to endure a comfortable standard of living, and live with work vice work to live. My elements in a nut shell are: Faith, Passion, and Financial freedom. 

BPM: Finish this sentence- "My writing offers the following legacy to future readers..." 

By giving a reflection of respectful behavior when it comes to heterosexual relationships. It also leaves a definition how people of current times deal with love and romance combining the dating rituals for common core qualities based on social behavior. This becomes a road map of attitude and actions where it may transition.

 BPM: Introduce us to your book, A Choice to Yield, and the main characters.A Choice to Yield is a dynamic story of love, friendship, race/ethnicity, and transition. It's a true-to-life fiction where the plot grabs you from beginning to end and a fictionalized account of situations existing in many lives. The plot shares hardships, challenges our learned behavior, and reminds you of social situations faced in modern life. 

This contemporary romance is set in Atlanta, GA during 2005 when a Midwestern Caucasian woman Angela and her married best friend Paula relocate to the city. Angela finds interest in Mark, an African-American who intrigues her. Mark shares Atlanta’s diverse culture, and when Angela bellows her excitement with Paula, she is battered endlessly for her enthusiasm. Paula encourages Angela to date three acceptable candidates: Bill whose likeness and belief holds ethnicity and race separate and not equal by any means; Christopher, a self-centered gentleman who surely holds Paula's approval, but isn’t capable of grabbing Angela’s heart; and Eric, a gentle soul, who soothes Angela’s troubled moments, but unfortunately is doubtful as a companion. 

Angela eventually emerges from strongholds of misperceptions and social ideologies. Her intrigue allows Mark to merge into her life while she journeys to self-discovery. Along her epiphany, she becomes acquainted with Margo, a charismatic artsy socialite; Karen, the interior decorator entrepreneur, and Amy, an indecisive romantic. Each new friend interjects their perception of love and happiness while influencing Angela’s final decision. The genre is Contemporary Romance and sets in the year 2005. 

Major events: A conversation between Margo and Angela, where Margo sets the perception straight on race and dating consideration. And second, the event where Karen exposes her Angela to a world of elegance placing her misconception to myths to rest. 

BPM: What specific situation or revelation prompted you to write your book?

Nothing specific, per se, but it’s a long time conversation piece whenever I hear how race, gender, ethnicity refers to dating. My thoughts were not to sugar coat the event but really stress social issues from a different view. People often jump to conclusion if they ponder why anyone would love someone so different. However, it isn’t a point of view where we exploit or condemn, but a view where it’s a transition of thought and where culture is surely unique. The way I wrote this novel’s message applies to all nationalities and race of people. 

BPM: Who are your favorites? Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?

Of course Angela is a favorite character, but I really liked developing Amy, Margo, and Karen. These ladies really added spice to the novel. Nothing like true friendships and these characters displayed how women truly support each other during tough times. These characters are modeled from people in my life. Fortunately there were strong entrepreneurial influences from my mother and other women who fought in the business world to make it. My observations included how women nurtured and ridiculed each other to get one or the other in line with reality. The women in the story are portrayal of real people, based on specific behaviors. 

BPM: What role do you give the "mean-spirited" characters? Do you have such characters?

Paula and Bill, are two characters who identifies with or practice racist views. They held onto myths and historical beliefs of African Americans, or just out right feared losing their White privilege. Though, the story shows effort for one character making an attempt to adjust and adapt, but strong beliefs deterred his/her re-structure. These characters help the story by showing the other side of racial and social beliefs. Though, many don’t exactly speak in a negative manner, however they live and believe quite separate or external to diversity. The characters help reflect another common behavior in our society.

BPM: Who do you want to reach with your book and the message within?

Median age is 40, mostly women, however, I’d like to reach readers of all races and ethnicities of people who contributes to our social and emotional society. 

BPM: What are some of the specific issues, needs or problems addressed in this book?

Love and ethnicity is one issue alone. How people address interracial couples, or encourage their children, friends, and relatives to love based on social beliefs. “Don’t come home with a black, white, or one of those Asian women,” was heard by many men, told by their mothers (especially mothers). Why? Because most mothers want their children mated with someone similar to themselves to fulfill their dream, otherwise its an adjustment. 

Also, the book exposes the thought processes most women/men go through when dating someone unlike their family. I highlight the combination and threats most families address, especially when ,” it’s what people do these days, but don’t bring one of those people here.” The common remark even today, especially in families with strong rituals and beliefs. The book addresses friendships, a good vs. bad friend where their influence perpetuates good over evil. Or how influential some people are in dating, their advice on partner selections. What is a great friend? My novel gives examples of both great and horrible.

Black wealth is another social nome, and how most African Americans become successful, with business. The novel reflects how black entrepreneurial efforts are beyond the commonly known abilities. Most people believe black wealth is from entertainment or street hustle. One other social issues is the black family or couple. Since behavior is stressed throughout the book, the sub story shows how a black couple does work, in spite of the continued challenges most perpetuate. There are great black men who love and love well; black men who support and contribute, as well as uphold standards of quality. 

BPM: What was the most powerful chapter in the book for you to write?

Chapter 10 – where Angela finally has the heart to heart conversation with Margo. What happens when she teeters the line of decision or making that decision to say yes? Margo explains the other view and surely goes the extra mile of realization. What happens in a woman’s thought process was surely a challenge based on a male’s perspective. This took in depth research and surely an assessment of common core behavior amongst the study group. As well, the chapter took me on a historical ride, where people explored stereo-typed responses on all races of people. 

BPM: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?

This book resonates with our current social state of interracial dating. Emphasis is not focused on hatred or deterrence as during the civil rights movement, but it exposes reluctant behavior. The reader encompasses the intricacies of heart and mind while processing a conscious decision to date across invisible lines of social expectation.

Bottom line, a message to follow your heart after realizing the road you wish to travel. Many reflect on what could have or should have been in earlier dating experiences. Here, my message to the reader is to reflect from internal and yet pay attention to the important factors when selecting a mate. Forget about race, ethnicity, religion, and other social idioms, and fact facts to what makes you extremely happen to create an everlasting relationship. 

BPM: What do you think makes your book different from others on the same subject?

Love is blind! The common message in most books of interracial dating, marriages, and or situations. This novel differs because of the focus on current social behaviors, explaining the challenge both genders make, or sharing from a mature woman’s view on the actual thought process.

My reflection of actual behavior is not superficial at the least, nor gives insight to multiple negative behaviors of African American people. It is reflective of a common core challenge seen from multiple people. You actually see a reflection of your actions, behavior of friends and relatives, or reminders of situations you’ve experienced. 

As well, this novel differs via sub stories of friendships, business, dating expectations, and reflective of regional intricacies The added difference is every venue or location mentioned in the novel is actual in Atlanta. The reader is able to relive scenes in actual locations with the imagination sparked from the novel. This is truly a “true to life” fiction.

BPM: Share with us your latest news or upcoming book releases. 

A new novel is in works for a release. When Love Evolves, releases April 2011. This novel is a sequel to Good Guys Finish Last, by debut book. When Love Evolves is a national release by a traditional publisher, which is an accomplishment from my independent effort.

Other efforts are in work for the final sequel in Good Guys Finish Last. With blessings form above, you’ll find me at your nearest bookstore holding book signings, exposure with additional media outlets, and even on the big screen.

BPM: How can our readers reach you online? 

Email me at: LonzCook@RLOenterprises.com.  Visit the author's website: http://www.lonzcook.com/.  You’ll be glad you did.

A Choice to Yield by Laurence “Lonz” Cook

Purchase from Amazon Today!

ISBN 0-7414-5344-4

Contemporary Romance

Meet Life Changing Books Authors

Meet Life Changing Books Authors
and the CEO Azarel Smallwood

Life Changing Books, better known as LCB, established in 2003 is quickly becoming one of the most respected Independent Trade Publishers amongst chain stores, vendors, authors and readers. LCB offers a variety of African-American literature including Contemporary Fiction, Women’s Fiction, Urban/Street Literature, Erotica, and a host of other fiction categories.

CEO, Azarel, launched the company with the release of her self-published title, A Life to Remember, and from there she has continued to add best selling authors onto her label. Currently, LCB has sixteen authors and offers outside distribution to selective projects. The success of LCB is a team effort combined with our outgoing authors, and management team.

As of 2008, LCB has joined forces and constructed progressive relationships with both wholesale and retail establishments across the United States of America and abroad. We’ve topped the charts with some of our Essence Magazine best-selling titles such as Millionaire Mistress, Secrets of a Housewife, Bruised 2, and Deep.   In addition, LCB is progressive in contributing to children in need. Visit the Life Changing Books Website: http://www.lifechangingbooks.net/

Life Changing Books presents 4 Urban Literature Sensations!

View the interviews, videos and book excerpts here: http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/lcbauthors.html

Video Introduction: One Night Stand by Kendall Banks

Video Introduction: Snitch by VegasClarke

Video Introduction: The Dirty Divorce 2 by Miss KP

Video Introduction: Money Maker by Tonya Ridley

Purchase all the books from the Publisher's website - http://www.lifechangingbooks.net/

   

MahoganyBooks Featuring Dolen Perkins-Valdez

MahoganyBooks Reading Series
Featuring: Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Friday, March 11th at 7pm for this FREE event

Join us as we welcome NAACP Image Award nominee, Dolen Perkins-Valdez to the third installment of the MahoganyBooks Reading Series. Dolen will read from, discuss, and sign her highly acclaimed debut novel, Wench.

Wench is a novel that explores the complex relationships between slave masters and their enslaved mistresses. Set at the historic Tawawa House in Ohio, Dolen provides us with a story of four women whose friendship is forged by pain, yet sustained by their love for their children and the hope of freedom. We are excited to feature this award winning novel, Wench, and it’s captivating author, Dolen Perkins-Valdez, during Women’s History Month in recognition of the 2011 theme, Our History is Our Strength.

We encourage you all to join us on Friday, March 11th at 7pm for this FREE event. It will be held at Betty’s Place & Cafe in the PG Sports and Learning Complex at 8001 Sheriff Rd. Landover, MD. Books will be provided on site by MahoganyBooks, however can also be purchased in advance at a discounted price from MahoganyBooks.com.

Attendees must present their MahoganyBooks receipt to collect a ticket prior to getting their book autographed. Your ticket will also enter you to win a prize during the drawing to be held at the conclusion of the event.

About Dolen:

Dolen Perkins-Valdez’s fiction and essays have appeared in StoryQuarterly, Robert Olen Butler Prize Stories 2009, The Kenyon Review, PMS: PoemMemoirStory, North Carolina Literary Review, and Richard Wright Newsletter. Born and raised in Memphis, a graduate of Harvard, and a former University of California postdoctoral fellow, Perkins-Valdez lives in Washington, DC. This is her first novel.

RSVP Today at Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=148349478557652

 

 

Best Books 2010 by the Sankofa Literary Society and EDC Creations

2010 Best Book Awards
Sankofa Literary Society and EDC Creations

The Sankofa Literary Society and its founder Ella Curry are focused on the issues and lifestyles that define today's avid readers — what they read, what they want out of their literature, how they connect to each other, what motivates them and how they feel about their community as a whole. Many have stated, “There is no African American village…it’s dead,” we don’t feel that way. The Village is here, the village in now! Expand your horizons! We are a community of 11 bookclub units, 4 social networks and 22 nurses who want to enrich our community with books and the written word. Listed below are the books we have read in 2010 presented by small press publishers, traditional publishers and self-published authors. Join us today to add your voice and experiences to our union. Come on in and join this movement to Give the Gift of Knowledge!

The Sankofa Literary Society 2010 Book of the Year

UNTOLD: The New Orleans 9th Ward You Never Knew
by Lynette Norris Wilkinson

Some of the first images you saw of New Orleans under water during Hurricane Katrina were the mangled houses and cars, and drowned bodies of the people from the Lower 9th Ward. Before Hurricane Katrina, few had even heard of this close-knit predominately African American community nestled just five miles form world-famous Bourbon Street.

The author says, "I watched it all unfold on TV from my home near Dallas that morning. As the waters rose, my heart sank." This was my home, my neighborhood, my people. How could I not use my gifts to tell their story?  



"Untold" lets you:

• Peek into the lives of 16 residents, share their memories, see how they survived, and where they are now

• Find out what the area was before it became the Lower 9th Ward

• How the Lower 9 may be connected to an area movie producer

• The Lower 9 remains devastated-still---but is struggling to survive

Proceeds from this book will be donated to organizations helping the residents of the Lower 9 recover. Visit the author's website to order the book and to view more details on Untold: http://hurricanekatrinastories.com/joomla


WHY WE ARE HERE
While highlighting our heritage, our experiences and delivering our voice–we remain anchored to the spiritual, emotional and practical realities of our entire global community, supporting all races. We are not limited solely to reading just African American (AA) authors; we hope to educate our readers by offering a variety of quality literature and resources. We are offering you the best in literature period, from our perspective. Spread the word...please share this listing with at least 20 people you know! The books below will make excellent gifts all year long.


WHAT ARE LITERARY HALLMARKS
Listed below are a few of the best books representing the literary world and the arts. Each book created an impact for our readers/reviewers and the Sankofa Literary Society network. Our literary hallmarks indicate excellence in writing. Here are the books we want to showcase to the world. Please take your time and expand your reading territory by saluting the literary greats and leaders listed below. The books are NOT listed in any order pertaining to the quality of the literature—they are all 4-5 star reads. The number beside the title, does not indicate the ranking of this list.


2010 EDC CREATIONS TOP 40 BOOKS - ELLA'S RECOMMENDED READING LISTS
Readers here is a summary of all the BEST BOOKS LISTS posted by our themes.


*  EDC Creations Literary Hallmarks, view the entire list of 40 books here:
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/2010-edc-creations-literary-excellence.html



SANKOFA LITERARY SOCIETY TOP BOOKS — RECOMMENDED READING LISTS

The Sankofa Literary Society is a collective of 11 bookclubs from across the United States.  Each bookclub was asked to share 20-30 of their favorite books of the year. The books were later discussed on our monthly conference calls. In September, we polled the clubs, bookstore owners and selected book reviewers. The books below were nominated by the various bookclub members for the awards. Over the course of three months we discussed the nominated books and voted. After voting three times, we came up with the final ballot in late December 2010.  The books listed at the links below are the winners! 


*Young Reader Power Reads — Books for Children, Tweens and Young Adults
The books on this list were part of our 2010 SLS Young Readers Challenge. Each parent was asked to get their child to read 20 books for the year. The list below is the best selections out of more than 245 books read by the group. View the entire list and order the books here: http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/best-children-and-young-adult-books.html



*Black Pearl Inspiration — Non-fiction/Heritage/Memoirs/Self-help
View the entire list of 25 books here:
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/best-books-2010-non-fictionmemoirsself.html



*Lift as We Climb Leaders — Popular Fiction/Fiction/Literary Fiction
View the entire list of 26 books here:
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/best-books-2010-popular-fiction-and.html



*Black Pearl Soul — Christian Fiction/ Faith-based /Our Experiences
View the entire list of 26 books here:
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/best-books-2010-christian-fiction-faith.html



*On the Shoulders of Giants — Thrillers/Mystery/Erotic Suspense/Paranormal
View the entire list of 20 books here:
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/best-books-2010-thrillersmysteryerotic.html



*How We Love — Compt.Fiction/Relationships/Urban Lit./Women's Fiction
View the entire list of 25 books here:
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/best-books-2010-relationshipsurban.html



*Black Pearl Passions — Erotica/Romance/Alternate Lifestyles/Adult Literature
View the entire list of 26 books here:
http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2011/01/best-2010-eroticaromanceadult.html



SPEAK UP AND OUT

Authors, if you see your book listed, please leave a comment with your website address, bookseller links and any news about you and your books! Ask your network to stop by and share their reviews of your books too. Make sure you tell your fellow author friends if you see their names listed below.

If your name is listed below, you can copy the award image to your computer and add to your website as well as your promotional material. I would like to interview ALL of the authors on this list for Black Pearls Magazine and for the Black Authors Network Radio Show. Email me at: edc_dg@yahoo.com  to setup the interviews.







Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations Media Group
Visit Black Pearls Magazine: http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/


Shop at our Black Pearls bookstore for the books:
http://astore.amazon.com/edcmagazine-20

Intimate Conversation with Dr. Natalie A. Francisco

Intimate Conversation with Dr. Natalie A. Francisco

Dr. Natalie A. Francisco serves as Co-Pastor alongside her husband, Bishop L. W. Francisco III, and Minister of Music at Calvary Community Church (Hampton, VA). She is author of Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory and founder/executive director of the Women of Worth & Worship (WOWW) Conference and Institute.


Ella: Dr. Francisco, tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I developed a love for reading and writing in grammar school and excelled at it throughout my educational pursuits and career. My passion has always been centered around educating and empowering others, particularly women, and my writings have been in alignment with my heart's desire to serve others.


Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence: My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... Women of all ages who read my book will discover it to be a resource that will motivate them to uncover their dreams and desires in order to live a quality of life that is honorable to God, self-fulfilling and of service to others.



Ella: Please introduce us to your book Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship.
Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory is a wealth of information tailor-made to address the questions that women have regarding spirituality, relationships, marriage, parenting, maintaining balance and so much more. I share the triumphs, tragedies, and lessons learned from my life to captivate women and catapult them into their destiny. Biblical principles, self-reflective journal exercises and practical wisdom intermingle to create a mentoring memoir that readers will enjoy time and time again.






Intimate Interview
Ella: Where are you from? What is your favorite genre? How did you start your journey?
I am a native of Hampton, Virginia who loves to travel. Being in full-time ministry has afforded me the opportunity to visit many nations as well as to establish and assist ministries across the United States and around the world for which I am extremely grateful.

My favorite genre of books to read would be the categories of Inspirational and Self-Help. Michelle McKinney Hammond, who happens to be one of my favorite authors and a personal friend, inspired me by her own writings to launch out and do the same. I have helped to write and edit books as well as church, leadership and Christian school manuals for our church, Christian schools and other organizations, but had never given much thought to publishing my own works until I was encouraged to do so by another friend, Rev. Connie Jackson. I will be forever grateful to her, Michelle and my family for the gifts in me that they have helped to nurture.


Ella: Who are the main characters in your book? Can a non-fiction title have a character?
I am the main character and serve as the storyteller to introduce the reader to the profound moments in my life that helped to define who I am and what I was created to do. The transparency and candor utilized allow women to see themselves within the pages as they identify with real life issues that we often face. I have even included anonymous women who have asked questions of me concerning relationships, parenting skills, career choices and the pursuit of purpose in their own lives. I love the fact that the lessons I've learned and the wisdom shared have proven to be helpful in the lives of countless women, and men for that matter, that have benefited from reading my book.


Ella: How does you book shape or add value to the reader's life?Many who have read my book have already expressed how it has impacted them to the core, causing them to re-evaluate their perspective, relationships and habits while rediscovering who they are and pursuing what brings them joy. Here are just a few comments from others:

"In a time when many have abandoned the call to “teach the younger women…” Natalie Francisco emerges as a true Titus woman. As a modern day Proverbs 31 woman, she proves we can all be the women God created us to be if we are armed with the right truths to work with. So take the time to read, to absorb and then apply these rich lessons to your own life. But don't just stop there. Share the wealth with others. Wisdom for Women of Worth and Worship is a jewel of a book that has the potential to change the world one home at a time." - Michelle McKinney Hammond

"Your book is really wonderful. To be honest I have so many friends releasing books that I just had the opportunity to read yours. I thoroughly enjoyed it!! This is not a read through in a few sessions. It is a life manual that one needs to take the time to soak in. Kudos my dear! Love it! Love it!" - Pastor Tracie Davis

"I have been truly blessed by this book. It has helped me to understand that some of the things I felt I was dealing with alone, I'm really not alone. It helped me to realize that you have to let go of any fears that you have and be able to step into whatever your calling is with boldness, knowing that your worth and value as a woman of God is very important. The lessons in the book help to strengthen you and help you to be able to deal with some of the issues that are going on in your life. Also, I think men can read this book. The principles don't change. The lessons can help men understand what their wives or significant others are going through." - Rita LaVeist

"Your book is a wonderful resource for all women -- the cover alone is very impressive. I've added it to my collection of suggested reading for the women's groups that I facilitate weekly. I'm running a series of therapeutic support groups called Healthy Women/Healthy Relationships. We are delving into a lot of the topics that you cover and I'm sure that the ladies' experience will be enhanced by reading this book. I especially like the moments of meditation -- they really help to re-focus the mind and deepen self-awareness. GOD has blessed you with great insight and a beautiful gift of expression through writing. May the LORD continue to richly bless all that you do for HIS glory. May HE enlarge your territory and keep you in HIS perfect peace." - Minister Pamela LaVeist-Bell, LCPC




Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?My greatest accomplishment would be for my book to contribute to the positive transformation of women who are empowered to excel beyond their wildest dreams personally, spiritually and professionally after reading it. God-consciousness, self-discovery and service to others would be the three-fold cord that I would desire for readers to hold onto without ever letting go.



Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?I initially wrote the book as the curriculum for my Women of Worth & Worship Institute classes. I soon realized that women regardless of age, race, ethnicity or socio-economic status should read, learn from and enjoy it. I have even been told by husbands, fathers and brothers of those who purchased the book for the special women in their lives that they have learned much from reading it and that the principles I share are also applicable to them.


Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
I was pleased to find out that my book was listed as number 13 on Black Christian Book Company's Top 50 Bestseller List of Black authors and Independent publishers soon after its release. In retrospect, however, I would have to say that receiving emails and reviews from others concerning their perspective of my book and how it has left an indelible mark upon them, fills my heart with unspeakable joy.


Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
It is important to write about whatever moves you, for in doing so, others will be moved as well. I have found that people readily identify with fiction or non-fiction stories with subject matter that will speak to the heart and feed the mind. Writing then must be passionate and intellectually stimulating, and the writer must be first partaker of what he or she desires to communicate to others.


Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion.
In order to be a successful author, one must enjoy reading and writing, networking with others, and consistently promoting one's own book.


Ella: What book already published is similar to your book in its writing style?
A number of books written by my friend Michelle McKinney Hammond are similar to my own in that the writing style is transparent, candid and thought-provoking, causing the reader to have an epiphany of sorts after encountering the book.


Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?My next published book will be my dissertation written in 2000 entitled The New Demand for Christian Education: Targeting the Urban, African-American Community. I am also planning to write a book about effective parenting in the near future. In the interim, I will continue to offer year-round mentoring classes and seminars both onsite and online, as well as annual conferences and community outreach efforts to educate, encourage and empower women as well as middle and high school young ladies.


For more information regarding Dr. Natalie A. Francisco and the ministries in which she is involved, contact:
Dr. Natalie A. Francisco, Founder/Executive Director
Women of Worth & Worship, LLC
P. O. Box 9853
Chesapeake, VA 23321
Email: wowwi@nataliefrancisco.com
Website: http://www.nataliefrancisco.com/


Book Details
Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory by Natalie A. Francisco, Ed. D.
(Foreword by Michelle McKinney Hammond)

Websites: www.wisdomforwomenofworthandworship.com or http://www.wowwithebook.com/

Purchase the paperback version or eBook format at: http://www.nataliefrancisco.com/.

(Also available at www.Amazon.com, www.Target.com, www.BlackCBC.com, and http://www.gospellightbookstore.com/. (Coming soon online to Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Borders and wherever fine books are sold.)

Intimate Conversation with Miss KP

Intimate Conversation with Miss KP

The Dirty Divorce Trilogy

Miss KP began writing in high school as an outlet to express her emotions as a teenager. She would write poetry and has even written unpublished songs. However, after feeling as if she had much more to say, she decided to purchase a laptop and began working on her first novel, which we now know as Dirty Divorce, Part 1.

Just months after a good friend introduced her to publisher, Azarel; Miss KP’s dreams came true. She became a published author with the Life Changing Books (L.C.B) family with a #1 hit behind her name. Along with being an author, Miss KP works in the fashion industry as a Merchandise Manager in prominent department store.

A native Washingtonian, Miss KP currently resides in Maryland with her eight year old daughter, and is awaiting the release of her second and most anticipated novel of 2010, The Dirty Divorce- Part 2. For more information on Miss KP or her books, visit her website at: http://www.misskp.com/


Ella: Introduce us to your book, Dirty Divorce 2 and the main characters.
Drugs turn out to be a way of life for Rich, a powerful, sexy Drug Lord hailing from Washington, D.C. His desire for fast money and the extravagant things that it brings puts his family in harms way. Soon, his ego forces him to leave his castle and empire to expand business on the West Coast. His decision to leave his love ones behind at the mercy of his enemies turns out to be catastrophic. One by one, each of Rich's children spiral out of control.

Pregnancy, rape, and abduction all hit the family structure one day after another. With Rich putting his focus on money, sex, and insignificant things in life his wife Lisa, throws some new drama into the relationship as well; a side-piece and divorce papers. This creates an even bigger wedge between Rich and Lisa. The hate that Rich and Lisa develop for each other causes the divorce to get down- right dirty. Can their love out way their hate to save their family or is it too late?
  

Meet the Main Players in Dirty Divorce 2
Rich- Handsome and definitely a lady's man. Father and husband that is ruthless and some think he's heartless but he's real. He lacks respect for women and his infidelity causes major issues in his home. His only love is for his money and his daughter. He keeps his son and wife on the back burner which causes major problems.

Lisa- Rich's wife. A docile, fragile wife and mother that struggles with what's important in life-- the love of money or her happiness. She deals with Rich's infidelity for the finer things in life but realizes when it's too late the price of street life has a hefty price tag.

Juan- Rich and Lisa's son. Has extreme hate for his dad due to his lack of respect for Lisa but doesn't realize he's more like his father that he knows.

Denie- Rich and Lisa's daughter. Teen girl that loves her father no matter how much he neglects her. He can do no wrong until it effects her and their relationship is tested.

Carlos "Los"- Rich's Cousin. Handsome street Colombian that holds rank in the street. His father Uncle Renzo makes things happen on both coasts and is the reason for the major cash flow that Rich and his family benefits from. Carlos and Rich's loyalty is tested by the ultimate betrayal and causes the family to dismantle.

Marisol- Carlos' wife. Beautiful but ruthless. A true ride or die chick. Will do anything for her husband.
A close friend to Lisa.


Ella: Who are your favorites? Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?
I would have to say that Lisa would be my favorite character in Part 1 because of the transformation of her character. It was intriguing to have her go from being this gullible wife to this deranged woman that was lost and willing to do anything for revenge. The characters of the book are fictional characters but the situations are real.


Ella: What role do you give the mean spirited characters? Do you have such characters?
The mean spirited character in the book is Rich, but he is consistent. Sometimes we have to look inside to see what makes people tick and why are they the way that they are. When people treat others with lack of respect and there are no consequences, do we blame the victim for allowing it and not standing up for themselves.

Ella: What specific situation or revelation prompted you to write a book?
As a teenager I would write as an outlet because I experienced a lot at a young age. My father’s absence through my teen years contributed to a lot that I went through. One of good friends was going through some relationship issues and made a powerful statement, she said, “I feel as though I’m being punished for everything my father did wrong to women, why do my relationships keep failing?” From there I said I want to write a book with a storyline that speaks to the troubled black family.


Ella: Who do you want to reach with your book and what is the message within?
The Dirty Divorce I feel anyone can relate to. Everyone either knows someone who has been through a divorce or has been through one themselves, even if they are a product of divorce. Everyone in the family is affected by the break up, whether dirty or not. The abuse in the home becomes a way of life and you take the risk of your off springs either becoming a product of their environment or finding a way out. I want people to see that even though this book is fiction, it’s somebody in this world going through the same things and what are we going to do differently in our lives to make a change in our current behaviors.

The one thing I always say is, I don’t want anyone to lose the message. The cars, the money, and the big house might seem all good but we need to know the consequences that come with it. The streets are always watching and you have to live a life in fear of the day it could all come to an end; whether if it’s the Feds or the next man trying to get on top it eventually comes to an end. Infidelity comes with the territory as well.

Know that these are all the things you sign up for street life, but the main message is not only what I just mentioned, it’s the effect on the family and the children. It’s a vicious cycle because we are teaching our children that this is the only way, and as young girls we choose the hustler as our boyfriend, and as young men we choose street life as the way because this is all we know.

Ella: What are some of the specific issues or problems addressed in this book?
Divorce has been such an easy way out these days, the younger generation doesn't fight anymore for their relationships so this is definitely a topic everyone can relate to. Also the relationship between a mother and her son as well as a father and their daughter. How the decisions that we make as parents and how they affect our children.


Ella: Share with us your upcoming releases and online contact info.
The Dirty Divorce is a trilogy and Part 2  was released on November 24, 2010 and for updates on future release information or to contact me I can be reached on Twitter: www.twitter.com/misskpdc.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/misskpdc   or visit my website at:  http://www.misskp.com/  


Purchase Dirty Divorce 1 and 2 written by Miss KP, HERE.
Publisher: Life Changing Books
ISBN-10: 193423074X
ISBN-13: 978-1934230749