Black Pearls Community Prayer

Black Pearls Community Prayer


2 Corinthians 9:11-13   Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ.

During this time of year we all find ourselves reflecting on the things in our lives for which we are thankful: life, health, strength, family. Yet in my mind being thankful is something that should be reflected outwardly as well as inwardly.

Each of us has been blessed to be a blessing. So, it's important for us to display our thankfulness by generously giving of ourselves to others. Our actions as well as our words should tell God how thankful we are. After all, one of His greatest commandments is that "we love our neighbors as ourselves."

How do we love our neighbor? By finding ways to give generously to them as God has given to you so that He may be glorified. This thanksgiving don't just give lip service to your thankfulness add some action as well. Let's us pray:

Eternal Father we give thanks to you for you are good and your mercy endures forever. As we observe Thanksgiving, we thank you for establishing your will on earth as it is in heaven. Thank you for enriching us in every way so we can always be generous. 


Father it is your will for us to give thanks to you always and in all things. As we observe Thanksgiving help us to look daily for ways to show you our appreciation for the favor you have shown us. Remind us we are blessed to be a blessing and help us find ways to bless others so that they will in turn thank You. Help us to meet the needs of others so they will joyfully express their thanks to You and as a result of our ministry they will glorify You. 

Forgive us for always wanting more and not counting our blessings. Remind us of those we need to forgive. Thank you that your lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one. Blessings and honor and glory be unto forever, Amen. 


Cheryl Lacey Donovan, author and motivational speaker
Website: http://www.cheryllaceydonovan.com/
Winner of the 2009 African American Literary Award for Non-Fiction

Share this message with your friends, family, co-workers and social network pals. Thanks!

Happy Holidays!
Ella Curry, EDC Creations


Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
Black Authors Culture Center-- Twitter with Ella

Marriage is Like a Bank: Top 10 Deposits to Make Today


Marriage is Like a Bank: Top 10 Deposits to Make Today

Read the entire article, including tips for couples at Black Pearls Magazine here

We’ve all heard that success is a journey, not a destination. I say that marriage is a journey, not a destination. In other words you have to constantly work at building a successful relationship; it doesn’t just happen. We know that the cares of this world: career, children, household chores, other family members, and more take up so much of our time that by the end of the day, we have nothing left to give to our spouses. In turn, our marriages are missing the very core of what it should have: love. 

A successful marriage is not based on a couple having no challenges or disagreements. But it is based on how they communicate with one another day after day. The definition of communicate is: a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior (words or deeds); to open into each other: connect. Therefore, communicating is connecting to one another on a daily basis to strengthen and enrich your marriage. I am not talking about the day in and day out of the routine of marriage – a peck on the cheek, “Have a nice day” - to a call in the middle of the day to discuss the children or why you will be home late - to a peck on the cheek and lights out.  Marriage is a lot like a bank account. A successful couple makes daily deposits – ways to make their marriage a priority.

Dating should not stop once you are married. Continue to court one another and offer tokens of love and appreciation. You don't have to spend a lot of money, but little signs of gratitude and courtship can go a long way to enhance your relationship.  © Jewell R. Powell, the Marriage Coach and author of Marriage 101: Building a Life Together by Faith. For more information, visit www.marriage101.us

© Jewell R. Powell, the Marriage Coach and author of Marriage 101: Building a Life Together by Faith. For more information, visit the author's website: www.marriage101.us


Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
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Literary Legends Celebrate the Holidays

Literary Legends Celebrate the Holidays
Read all of the interviews at Black Pearls Magazine, view here!


Gwynne Forster was born in North Carolina, grew up in Washington, D. C., and has lived, studied and worked in New York City ever since she came of voting age. She considers herself a humanitarian, a perspective that she inherited from her mother, a high school principal, and which she also attributes to her work and education in the social sciences, more specifically, demography. Her fiction writing reflects her training in the sociology of the family and her understanding of inter-personal relations. It should not be surprising then, that quite a few of Gwynne’s novels and novellas are set within the context of the family.

How do you celebrate the holidays?
Always by gathering together with lots of family members, laughing and talking, and eating way too much food! What are the "traditions" for your family? Preparing my mom's cornbread dressing, her baked macaroni & cheese, cheese potatoes & smoked turkey---we prepare many other dishes, too, but those four items are a must for all of us.

What are you most thankful for today? What message does all your book have in common?
I am most thankful for Jesus Christ in my life and for the health and well being of my family and myself.

My books have different messages, but everyone of them demonstrates the importance  of loyalty and common decency and the rewards of reaching for a higher goal. Website: http://www.gwynneforster.com/

---

Victoria Christopher Murray always knew she would become an author. Victoria has written eight novels: JOY, Truth Be Told, Grown Folks Business, Temptations, A Sin and a Shame, The Ex Files, Too Little, Too Late, Lady Jasmine: A Novel and was a contributor to the first Christian fiction anthology, Blessed Assurance. She was also the Contributing Editor for the Aspire Women of Color Bible published by Zondervan in 2007. All of her novels have continued to be Essence bestsellers. In addition, Victoria has received numerous awards including the Golden Pen Award for Best Inspirational Fiction and in 2006, she was awarded the Phyllis Wheatley Trailblazer Award for being the pioneer in African American Christian Fiction. Victoria splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington D.C. In Los Angeles. Full bio found here. Website: http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/

How do you celebrate the holidays? What are the "traditions" for your family?
Like everyone else by eating. Isn't that what we all look forward to? Just being together is tradition for us, but "remembering" the reason for the season is a common practice. My father instilled in us the joy and celebration and reason we have what we have.

---

Kwanza  is the President and CEO of First Fruits Publishing, a publishing company dedicated to Christian writers. Kwanza knows that writing is her God blessed talent and with her heart, and mind and mind planted firmly in her faith her writing is her ministry. Speaking the uncompromising word of God through her characters, Kwanza uses real life pains and struggles to reach and encourage believers and non-believers alike. . Kwanza is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but she currently lives in Owings Mills, Maryland with her husband and children. Website: http://www.firstfruitspublishing.com/

What was your most memorable holiday from the past?
Christmas has always been my favorite holiday, not only because of the gifts, but because of the memories of anticipation leading up to the day. I particularly remember Christmas Eve - the house dimly lit with flickering lights from the Christmas tree. Me and my siblings leaning over the banister trying to sneak a peak of Santa putting some goodies under the tree.

---

Marissa Monteilh (Mon-tay), a former model, talk-show host, Fox-TV news reporter, and commercial actress, is the best-selling author of eight mainstream novels and two novellas. Marissa also writes erotica under the pseudonym, Pynk. Originally from Los Angeles, she lives with her family in Atlanta, Georgia. Visit Marissa at www.marissamonteilh.com or at www.authorpynk.com

What was your most memorable holiday from the past? 
Christmas of 2002, celebrating after the birth of my first grandchild!

How do you celebrate the holidays? What are the "traditions" for your family? 
Our holiday tradition is to gather together as a family on Christmas morning for Xmas breakfast, which I prepare. We come together on New Year's day for gumbo, prepared by my daughter.

What are you most thankful for today? What message does all your books have in common?
I'm most thankful for my kids and grandbabies, that we're all healthy and happy. The message my books have in common is to cease judgment - and to love, above all else. 

---

Vonda Howard, wife of 13 years and mom to 2, native Washingtonian (DC),  has been writing since she was 10 years old. She currently still resides in the DC area with her family. She has 3 books to her credit so far; her first self published novel, “Diamond Lives, Platinum Lies”. Her second self published novella, “It’s always the Pretty Ones”, and her upcoming novel under Anexander Books, the first installment to her “D-cup Divas” series. She is currently the owner and lead designer of her own graphic design firm, Cupcake Creative Studio which services scores of well known authors and business owners. Website: http://www.cupcakecreativestudio.com/


What was your most memorable holiday from the past?
Christmas is always the most memorable for me. My younger brother and I never got a wink of sleep! We would drift in and out all night long! My mom made it clear that were not allowed to go into the living room until at least 6 am. We would always try to peek, but my mother (don’t ask me how), would always get it to be pitch black in the living room so we couldn’t see a thing! I sometimes miss sitting in the room with my brother talking about what we think we got.

How do you celebrate the holidays? What are the "traditions" for your family?
Well now that the kids are older we can really start some traditions. This year we’ll be making some cookies. We always watch “The Christmas Carol” together. On the 23rd I read “The Night Before the Night Before Christmas” by Natasha Wing and Mike Lester to them, and on Christmas Eve I read “The Night Before Christmas”. 


Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
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30 Shopping Days to Christmas!


$155.00 Holiday Book Promotion

The holidays are upon us! At EDC Creations we are getting a head start putting great books in the hands of readers. The Black Pearls Magazine is getting a totally new makeover for Christmas and New Year holidays! Special ends Dec. 12, 2009. Reserve your slot today to spread your message to EDC Creations fans and readers.To help showcase our new books and business owners, I have some wonderful packages to showcases authors, community leaders and business owners in the EDC Creations network.



For $155.00 we offer ALL the following awesome promotions in ONE:


-- Hour interview on Black Authors Network Radio Show ($75.00 value)
-- A half-page in our online holiday catalog and reading room ($75.00 value)
-- Black Pearls Magazine written interview posted on front page  ($75.00 value)
-- Eblast to our 133,000 readers of the EDC Creations Database ($99.00 value)
-- Featured Author on Black Pearls Online Newsletter ($45.00 value)


Black Pearls Christmas Catalog

Facebook view the catalog here: Black Pearls Christmas Catalog 


We can expand your territory of readers/clients by thousands in 5 days!  Let me know if we can reserve a slot for you or a friend today. Authors and business owners can check us out here. The book world needs to know you!  More holiday cheer and promotions available here.

Email the following material to this email account ONLY: edc_dg@yahoo.com.  Please make sure your information is correct before sending. No revisions or refunds after the promotion has started. We reserve the right to refuse service to X-rated material. Note: A representative will email you at the PayPal address that you made the payment from with further instructions. If this PayPal address is not your main email address, make sure you check out that account for our message.

--Title of Book and Author's Name
--ISBN# and Author's Website Address
--Book Synopsis and Book Reviews
--Author's bio and personal photo
--Link to one book seller website or the author's website
--Completed Black Pearls Magazine interview questionnaire

 
Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
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How To Achieve Your God Given Dreams


How To Achieve Your God Given Dreams


Christian Recording Artist, author and educator, Dr. Naima Johnston has a passion to see others achieve their God Given Dreams. After many years of being told she would never make it as singer, Dr. Johnston left her position as the Associate Director of Student Life at Wright State University to launch a recording career and a brand new ministry. After years of trials, loss and failures, Dr. Johnston discovered the keys to successfully building her life and ministry. Now traveling the country encouraging and equipping others, Dr. Johnston empowers people to live the life that they were ordained to live.

“Everyone has a dream, many people think they can’t achieve them for various reasons. But as long as you have breath and God on your side, you have still have time. You just need information and confidence. I want to share the tools that I’ve learned to assist others in obtaining Godly success.”

Dr. Johnston will be hosting a free Conference Call on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at 8:00pm Eastern Standard Time to teach participants how to, “Go With What They Got!”

On the verge of quitting ministry due to a lack of growth Dr. Johnston discovered that if she followed the example of Gideon she would be successful. In the Bible, Judges Chapter 6, the Lord instructs Gideon to fight a battle he could not possibly win. When Gideon informs the Lord he can’t win the battle, the Lord tells him not to worry since He would in fact be going with him. Dr. Johnston now does over 100 ministry engagement a year, has self published two books and is completing the recording of her second CD.

Seminar participants will learn:  The 4 Things That Keep You From Achieving Your God Given Dream, The 9 Things That Must Be Done To Achieve Your God Given Dream and 5 Uncommon Things To Motivate Yourself!

This free Conference Call will be a powerful preparation tool for those who want to launch a new business, a ministry or get motivated to achieve a life long dream! Participants must register and spaces are limited. To register send an email to: naimasbrokenbox@yahoo.com  for more information and registration for the “Go With What You Got Conference Call on Dec. 1, 2009.

Dr. Naima Johnston is the founder and CEO of Broken Box Ministries, an innovative arts and education company. She is the author of the forthcoming training manual, “Go With What You Got!” As well as, Called To Sing, 13 Mistakes TO Avoid When Starting In Music Ministry and Dr. Nay’s Random Recovery Life Lessons. Her newest CD, “This Place” will be releasing in March 2010. For more information or interview inquires please visit http://www.naimajohnston.com/

Still booking for Dec/Jan/Feb!  Would love to be of service to your church, women's organizations, educational institution, house concerts! Email me for open dates!

Want to achieve Your Calling? Register for my free tele-semianr - How To Achieve Your God Given Dreams - shoot me an email for more info! Dec. 1, 2009 at 8pm EST!

What Are You Thankful For?



Shhh! Thanksgiving Secrets



My Mom was a wonderful cook when I was growing up. My brother and I looked forward to the holidays because mom would really throw down in the kitchen. Unfortunately, as she got a little older, her food started to taste like she forgot some of the ingredients. So it became my job to cook the holiday dinners, as wonderfully as she did for the family.

Before the holiday, Mom would always season the turkey for days. So, I had to figure out ways to get the turkey from her and season it with all the spices she forgot. I had to be clever, and give any excuse imaginable to get that turkey, and everything else to my house. When she was living with me briefly it was easy; I would beat her to it or just wait until she went to bed, and re-season everything, wrap it back the way she had it and she'd never knew the difference. Later on when she moved out to her place, it became more of a challenge getting the turkey! I had to scheme, connive, and plan the captures!

Most times the fact that we were having dinner at my house worked, so she allowed me to take the turkey and then I could do what was needed. One year Mom got smart! She decided to start cooking at my house and the kids called me hysterical….. GRANDMA IS COOKING! I told them to go into the kitchen and hide certain major ingredients and that I would be home ASAP! When I got there, Mom was looking for the very food items I told the kids to hide. Exactly as I planned. She was a little shocked and told me that I needed to go to the store, “I don't know how you cook Debra!” I took her home and finished the dinner preparations as intended. Another successful year for the turkey!

Every year thereafter, with me sneaking behind her and re-doing the food, she would joyously say “This is the best Turkey I’ve ever made!” The kids and I would just smile and agree. To this day and it’s been 20 years, she doesn't know we re-create the food, and we plan to keep it that way! This is just our secret now, don’t tell….

This has become a family tradition that my children and I have created; actually getting a kick out of “Out Smarting Grandma”!

What I am most thankful for is that we have created this tradition quite by accident, but it’s something we plot and plan together as a unit, to create a magical day for the family. We really enjoy the pride on my mother’s face when she declares it the best dinner she has ever made!

Debra Owsley, owner Simply Said Reading Accessories





What Are You Reading Now?



What are you reading?   What's on your  "to be read list"?  Have you read a great book excerpt and want to tell others about it?  Here is the place!  Share all your book reviews and previews.  FB readers, post your book reviews and comments on the  Black Pearls Magazine thread here.


Sneak Peek Showcase

Read our selected book excerpts and tell us what you think of the stories. Here is the list of selected books. They are in our sidebar section. There are several new releases and trivia games listed as well.  Enjoy!


Reader's Choice Showcase
Answer any one of these questions to enter our drawing for FREE Review Copies. Remember to leave a valid email address with each post.  Check back here on December 9, to see if you won!

-- Name 1 book you wish you'd written.
-- Name your 3 favorite male writers.
-- Name your 3 favorite female writers.
-- Name 1 book you read on the sly.
-- Name 1 book that made you laugh or cry.
-- Name 1 book that made you change something in your life.
-- Name 1 book that you have read more than once.
-- Tell us your Sexiest couple from a book and why.
-- Tell us your 2 favorite villians and the books they were in.

 
 
 
 

Literary Treasure Hunt Online


Nightly BAN Radio Treasure Hunts

During Black Books Weekend we want readers to find out more about our colorful literary past. Listed below are 5 African American trivia questions. Search the web and find the answers. November 27-30, 2009, is Black Books Weekend!  Read more about the live author readings and contests here.


Answer the questions below on the Black Pearls Magazine Blog thread ONLY to collect great book gifts.
Do not post the answers on Facebook, MySpace or Yahoo Groups. Read the full details on posting your answers here.



Let the Hunt Begin....


1. Name the important African American literary scholar that left us this quote: "My desire has been to allow the black tradition to speak for itself about its nature and various functions, rather than to read it, or analyze it, in terms of literary theories borrowed whole from other traditions, appropriated from without."



2. Who is the author of the oldest known piece of African American literature: "Bars Fight". Although written in 1746, the poem was not published until 1855, when it was included in Josiah Holland's "History of Western Massachusetts"? 



3. Name the abolitionist and prolific writer who wrote what is considered to be the first novel by an African American, titled Clotel or, The President's Daughter (1853). The novel is based on what was at that time considered to be a rumor about Thomas Jefferson fathering a daughter with his slave, Sally Hemings. However, because the novel was published in England, the book is not considered the first African American novel published in the United States.


4. Who was the first African American poet to gain national prominence for such works as When Malindy Sings, Joggin' Erlong and The Uncalled ?


5. Author ____  made an impact with his novel The Blacker the Berry: A Novel of Negro Life (1929), which focused on intra-racial prejudice between lighter-skinned and darker-skinned African Americans.



Nightly Trivia Games on Black Authors Network Radio
Nov. 27-30, 2009. Listen to the live shows to join the fun!


Visit the Black Authors Network Radio Chatroom every night of the event to possibly collect new books! There will be more games and book gifts shared each night in the chatroom. Call into the live radio show to speak with the featured authors. The call in number is: 646.200.0402. The show times are listed on the main event site, as well as more details on our literary game rules. View a list of possible book gifts here.



Literary Trivia Contest-Black Books Weekend


Black Books Weekend Literary Trivia Contest

November 21-30, 2009. Answer our 5 trivia questions to collect a new gift book. Please visit the Black Pearls Magazine for the full details. We have more gift books for readers and community trivia contests. Click here for the full details.


Trivia Questions for Serious Readers:


1.Who published The Same River Twice: Honoring the Difficult?

2.Who published My Bondage and My Freedom (1855)?

3.Who is quoted as saying, "There is no such thing as Black literature. There's good literature and bad. And that's all."

4. Who is best known for his novel Invisible Man (1952), which won the National Book Award in 1953?

5. Black Fire: An Anthology of Afro-American Writing, was edited by ____.


Think you know the answers?
  Post your correct answers here.
  Do not post the answers on Facebook, MySpace or Yahoo Groups.  Only post the answers on Black Pearls Magazine Blog Thread. Tell the Black Pearls Readers the answers. Give the Gift of Knowledge!  Read the full details on Black Books Weekend Trivia Games here.


Getcha Read On! Win This Book

2009-2010 Great Books for Gifts!



Join all the Fun starting this FRIDAY for Black Books Weekend.  The Reading Party takes place on BAN Radio
Nov. 27-30, 2009, totally online!


Here are just a few of the 200+ books you can win by chatting in the Black Authors Network Chatroom  or calling into the BAN Radio Show November 27-30, 2009.  For more details, visit the official site. View the authors reading live from their books during this explosive weekend.  Check out our Trivia Questions for more great book gifts! Enter here.

Kimani Romance Collection Fall 2009

1. Prize of a Lifetime by Donna Hill
2. Queen of His Heart by Adrianne Byrd
3. Christmas Diamonds by Devon Vaughn Archer
4. Holiday Kisses by Gwynne Forster
5. Picture Perfect Christmas by Melanie Schuster
6. Teach Me Tonight by Jacquelin Thomas
7. Hidden Agenda by Rochelle Alers
8. Passion Overtime by Pamela Yaye
9. Bachelor Untamed by Brenda Jackson
10. Love Me Now by Celeste O. Norfleet
11. When It Feels So Right by Celeste O. Norfleet



Hardback Books for Review

1. Dirty Red by Vickie M. Stringer
2. Still Dirty by Vickie M. Stringer
3. Big Man Real Life and Tall Tales by Clarence Clemons and Don Reo
4. The Book of Lies by Brad Meltzer
5. Single Husbands by HoneyB, Mary Morrison
6. Stress, Climbing Out of Its Pits with God by Dr. Steven Haymon
7. Pleasures by Eric Jerome Dickey
8. Just Too Good to Be True by E. Lynn Harris (unsigned)
9. Keep the Faith by Faith Evans
10. Cloning by Monica R. Payton
11. The Street by Ann Petry
12. Almost Persuaded Now to Believe by Joshua A. McClure
13. Moving On: Living Life to the Fullest After Divorce by LaShon F. Williams
14. The Husband by Dean Koontz


Non-fiction, Spirituality, and Motivational Books
1. Never Make the Same Mistake Twice by Nene Leakes with Denene Millner
2. Keep the Faith by Faith Evans
3. Grandpa Does Grandma: ABCs of Senior Sex by Phil Parker
4. Raising Boys to Be Like Jesus by Sharon Norris Elliott
5. No More Excuses: Black Men Stand Up by Robert Jackson
6. Get ‘Em Girls Guide to the Power Cuisine by Shakara, Jeniece and Joan
7. How to Get Out of Debt: Get an A Credit Rating by Harrine Freeman
8. Ministry of Motherhood by Cheryl Lacey Donovan
9. Cheating Death: Doctors and Medical Miracles by Sanjay Gupta, MD
10. Character Driven by Derek Fisher
11. The Barack in Me by Moses Miller
12. Cain, Ishmael and David by Jacqueline Jenkins
13. Eve, Abigail and Sapphira by Jacqueline Jenkins
14. Brain Surgeon by Keith Black, MD
15. Metu Neter Vol. 3 by Ra Un Nefer Amen
16. Can These Bones Live by Joshua A. McClure


Tell all your friends. Retweet. This is the online literary event of the year!


The Black Author Network (BAN Radio)
 is a weekly radio show that features authors and literary leaders three times per week to give the readers a blast of knowledge, wisdom, and empowerment. Ella Curry will be your host for the evening. Using author interviews as the theme for each show, book lovers get a first-hand look at the "behind the book" news, as the authors and show host, Ella Curry, shares the storyline of several new books each week on the BAN Radio Talk Radio Show. We come to you 3 times a week to enlighten the community on great books, and to empower our readers with the Gift of Knowledge!

Black Authors Network Radio Show
Host: Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations
Chatroom: www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network
Callers Welcomed; dial-in number: (646) 200-0402

Featured Author Nikkea Smithers

Nikkea Smithers is a spoken word artists and Essence Magazine Best Selling Author She has performed on stages in front of thousands. Her literary work often speaks to issues in the community that are often under-discussed. Her readers have fallen in love with her ‘tell it like it is’ approach to writing making her readers lifelong fans.

Intimate Conversation with Ella Curry, CEO of EDC Creations


Ella: Hello Nikkea! Introduce us to your book, On The Flip Side.
Nikkea: On The Flip Side deals with a situation that many men face but little light is shed on. We often hear the story about the single mother doing it for her kids on a daily basis. While I would never want to take anything away from them, what we don't often hear about is the single father who is standing up to his responsibilities and being burdened with social issues beyond his realm of control. What if the mother is not the one holding it down? What if the father has the kids but the mother has the greed? On The Flip Side deals with a different kind of baby momma drama and show that real men are fathers and not just baby daddies.

Ella: Tell us a little about your main characters. Who was your favorite?
Nikkea: Tavares was on the path to be a very successful young man. A one night stand turns his life up side down and he finds himself in a position where he has to be accountable. As he struggles to be a respectable father the mother of his children does everything in her power to break him down. The twist to this tale is he just isn't just a single father, he is also paying child support as if his kids don't live with him and in two different states.

Danica is a very interesting woman with a serious God complex. She truly believes that she is better than everyone around her. Not only does her complex cause her to throw stereotypes around like they are going out of style but it causes her to play the role of karma. The problem with playing karma is that it's bound to come back on you if you aren't living right.

My favorite is Tavares because he is the epitome of real man. He immediately steps up to the plate and makes things happen. As you read the book you genuinely feel for him. His kids come first, plain and simple. Who doesn't love a man like that?



Ella: Are your characters from the portrayal of real people? What inspired you to write this story?
Nikkea: The characters aren't based on real people but are influenced by conversations. I love talking to people and my husband and I often throw these parties where there are debates on different topics. Of course one of the most popular topics of debate is child support. The men thought they paid too much. The women thought it wasn't enough. One man talked about how he was paying support in both NY and VA. He talked about how neither state would take into consideration the order in the other state. This blew my mind!

My mother was even present and shared her views on the subject which opened my eyes even more. I see story lines in the strangest of things so I thought, what if was the other way around? What if the man had his kids and was still paying child support? So I wrote the poem On The Flip Side and was surprised at the response it got from men that were going through this very thing. Then a friend of mine and I were talking after she saw me perform the poem and was telling me about a friend of hers going through this only his child's mother left the kids at the hospital after birth! I immediately thought oh this needs to be a book! I then took the poem and turned it into this book.


Ella: What issues in society have you addressed in the book?
Nikkea: Child support is the obvious issue addressed in the book but there are several subliminal messages. I love dealing with subliminal messages and try my best to place a few in every novel I write. One issue is accountability. Society is really hard on women in regards to promiscuity but men don't always get the same scrutiny. I want to show young men that they have to be responsible for their actions as well. That one night of passion could mean kids with a woman you don't know or worse, a death sentance of H.I.V. Another issue that is addressed is karma. We really need to understand that what we throw out into the universe will come back to us pressed down, shaken together and running over.

Ella: What was your primary quest in publishing this book?
Nikkea: I love to break down barriers and talk about things that no one is talking about. At least not in this sense. I wanted the roles to be reversed and stretch my imagination. Especially with Danica's character, I had to dig deep for her because she is so far from me and what I would naturally do. I wanted this book to be true to the characters and show them for who they are regardless of the outcome. I love being able to uplift my brothers and say kudos to those doing the right things. Through Tavares I get to connect with readers and share with them the story of a good man.

Ella: Thousands of books are published each year. What sets your book apart from other books in your genre?
Nikkea: It's all about the message. My work is educational but entertaining. I want to enlighten people. I want them to finish one of my books thinking about the subject matter and want to take action. How can we change things if we don't start by talking about them? I actively strive to write away from whats popular and get to the bottom of social issues that need to be addressed.

Ella: What do you like to do when you're not writing?
Nikkea: When I'm not writing I love to read! I'm the biggest book worm. My husband and I joke that our house looks like the Library of Congress. I don't discriminate. I have poetry from Langston Hughes to Nikki Giovanni. I have nonfiction from George Jackson to Steve Harvey. I have fiction from John Gresham to E. Lynn Harris. With me being a self published author I am also a huge supporter of self published authors because I understand their grind. I also enjoy culture. I love museums, art viewings, jazz clubs, and poetry readings. I love the movies too!

Ella: What does your family think of your writing?
Nikkea: My family is very supportive. My husband has a prized collection of all of my books in his 'man room' that he shows off to all his friends. He gets the first copy in every edition of all of my works. When he sees something has discouraged me he tells me to shake it off and keep doing what I do. My mother buys my books in bulk like she doesn't know me! They are my two biggest supporters. I appreciate being surrounded by positivity and they keep me inspired to keep on writing.

Ella: What is the best piece of advice you would give to an aspiring author?
Nikkea: Do your research, stay positive and value the message over all else.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases. Nikkea: I was excited to find out that two of my books (Keith's Story and Attitudes of a Woman) were awarded with the Literary Hallmark & Legends Top Books 2009 award by Black Pearls Magazine. That honor was one of the highlights of my year!

Within the next year I have three more books that will be released. I also look forward to touring and performing. I want to dedicate my time in the new year connecting with my readers. Book clubs who select my book as their book of the month can reach out to me so that I can make plans to either be present or available for a teleconfrence.

Email: info@nikkeasmithers.com Website: http://www.nikkeasmithers.com/

Purchase the book at: Amazon Online

Purchase the book at: Barnes & Noble Online












Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
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Domestic Violence and Revenge: Two Sides of the Same Coin


Domestic Violence and Revenge: Two Sides of the Same Coin
By Ericka Williams
Email: erickawilliamsinfo@yahoo.com  
Author Website: http://www.erickaw.com/

Domestic Violence is a touchy and controversial subject. In society it is considered unacceptable and unconceivable for a man to physically batter his girlfriend or wife. The recent incident with singers Chris Brown and Rihanna was a publicized and highly debated event. Many famous people expressed discontent with, criticized, and verbally condemned Chris Brown; while siding with and supporting Rihanna, without being witnesses to the occurrence. I have two conflicting feelings in regards to domestic violence. Generally, I believe that it is wrong to hit a person that you are supposed to care for, because that person may be critically injured or killed. Many women have died at the hands of the men they loved. It is a dangerous habit and a problem that escalates over time, as many statistics prove. Relationships are so multi-faceted and often times built on foundations of lust, long before love. Add is a little stress, a few lies by omission and things get out of hand quickly.

Many young women have the misconception that if a man puts his hand on them, it is because he loves them enough to lose control, because if he didn't care he wouldn't get that angry. Herein lies the problem: a man who does not know how to deal with his emotions or control his anger, is a man to fear. When a man starts the cycle of abuse often times the assaults become worse and worse as time goes on and more and more frequent. What may begin as a shove may turn into a punch and ultimately a murder. Emotions run high in matters of the heart and volatile relationships don't become healthy ones easily. When things are going great is not the time to decide whether you are with the right man. However, the time to assess who you really love is when there are issues or conflicts. No one should hurt you in order to show their love. Your spouse or mate should be able to deal with problems with their mind and not their fists. When the schoolyard fighting days are over, adults need to know how to handle situations.

As an author, I write about these situations because I see them unfold daily; most likely not receiving the same publicity of Chris and Rihanna. My book, A Woman Scorned, addresses the issue of domestic violence from the female abuser’s point of view. The main character, Brielle Prescott, remained in an abusive marriage partially because of her physical abuse by her parents as a child. The emotional scars and distress from being battered lasts, affecting the victim for a lifetime, in many cases, in real life and in my fictional tales.

No matter how damaged the individual is there really an excuse to hit someone you are involved with? What if she/he cheats? What if she/he lies about where they were and who they were with? What if she spends the money that should have gone to bills? Is there really any justification for physical abuse except for the fact that it comes from lack of rationale. When a man lashes out, he may not intend to black an eye, bust a lip, break a limb, or commit a stabbing or shooting, but that does not mean it won't happen. As a woman who has dealt with more than one hostile and violent man in my lifetime, I know that it is by the grace of God that I was never badly hurt. However, I could have been. I choose not to excuse that behavior in my "seasoned" time as a woman.

I decided to heed the warning signs and not leave my life in the hands of an irrational man, because life and death are only a breath and heartbeat away from each other, and in one split second you can be gone. Contrary to what I just expressed, however, I do understand what rage feels like. I have been wronged by past boyfriends, as well, and it is not a good feeling. I know how it feels to lose control and lash out with my fists. I have been on both sides of this issue and that’s why I wrote A Woman Scorned. My main character, Brielle, is a victim and a perpetrator. She becomes the very thing she had come to hate, an abuser. She resorts to revenge, which is also a form of domestic violence—if violence is the means to getting that revenge.

How do we know what Rihanna did to Chris Brown to make him lash out? How do we know that she did not hit him first? Many might say that it doesn't matter because a woman is not capable of hurting a man the way a man is able to hurt a woman. However, is that true when a woman has a weapon? No, it is not. I have brought Domestic Violence and Revenge together because there is sometimes a marriage of the two in relationships. Domestic Violence is sometimes a reaction to a real injustice that is done to someone and Revenge is a reaction to the same. Therefore, what I believe we must do as a society is be more understanding, as opposed to condemning. Next, offer help to those who are on both sides of the issue. Chris Brown expressed a feeling of betrayal from Oprah for "all that he had done for her" because he said that he expected Oprah to offer him some advice or assistance in how to heal as well. Rihanna was not the only one who needed support. He is human, as we all are. I am not condoning abusers or anyone who inflicts pain on another. But let’s be real, it happens, on both sides! None of us can handle things the right way, at all times. Emotions run high the matter of love. So why is it that we find it okay, to kill the perpetrator? Isn't that violence too? What about trying to find the root of the problem? Let’s try to find the stressors that created the violence and address those issues, instead of rushing to judgment. I am sure many of you have opinions on revenge and what defines domestic violence. Share your views on the subject too, let’s talk about it.



Meet the Author
Ericka Williams is a determined business woman and author. She never takes no for an answer. When she sets her mind on a goal, she doesn't stop until it is reached. She is a graduate of Teaneck High School, in Teaneck New Jersey. She attended Howard University and graduated from Rutgers University. She is currently a teacher. Ericka has always had a yearning for knowledge, expression, and creativity.

She is the author of three books the Essence Magazine bestseller “All That Glitters”, and the sequel “Shining Star”, as well as the forthcoming release A Woman Scorned.  Pick up a copy at Amazon Online

Intimate Conversation with Jewell R. Powell

Intimate Conversation with Jewell R. Powell


Jewell R. Powell, affectionately known as ‘the Marriage Coach’ is an entrepreneur, inspirational teacher, and author of Marriage 101: Building a Life Together by Faith. Jewell is passionate about helping couples have a ‘happily ever after’ marriage. She graduated from VCMI Ministerial Training School and is working towards a Masters of Divinity degree from Regent University.

Jewell R. Powell shares her spiritual journey and shows you how to have a ”happily ever after” marriage “Till death do we part.” These words are said about 2.5 million times each year. But, despite couples’ best intentions and attempts to stay true to those vows, many—almost half!—end up in divorce. What’s going wrong?

That’s what author Jewell R. Powell asked when she found herself four years into marriage, sitting in a bedroom alone and on the brink of divorce. Desperate for answers, Powell dove deep into her faith. She searched the Scriptures for instruction on how to save her own marriage—and was surprised by what she found. That was nine years ago. Today, her marriage with her husband is better than ever—thanks to the eight surprising truths she uncovered during that period of intense study and soul-searching.

Her book Marriage 101: Building A Life Together By Faith digs into those eight biblical truths and reveals how applying them can transform even the worst of relationships. (ISBN: 978-0-8007-3332-2, $13.99, February) Published by Revell (Baker Publishing); available at following Retail Outlets: Christian and Mainstream Retail Stores, and online at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, BooksAMillion.com, Walmart.com and Target.com. Revell offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life.


Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
My passion is not for writing. My passion is for helping people. Therefore, I am driven to write.

Ella: Finish this sentence- My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
Faith, Hope and Love. I want people, whether adults or children (I am a children’s writer as well) to experience God in a greater way after reading my books.


Ella: Give us the "behind the book" story on, Marriage 101: Building A Life Together By Faith.
I share a story many know all too well. Whether in their own lives or in those of close family and friends. It’s a story about a marriage in trouble. I take you on my spiritual journey—of how my husband and I went from being engaged and enthusiastic to being frustrated and separated. I share the real issues that plague most marriages and the many challenges we faced. I share the disappointment I felt, looking at what was supposed to be “happily ever after.” But I also share how Lewis and I were able to rebuild our relationship and the lessons learned along the way as I implemented biblical truths from searching the Scriptures.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
The story is a parable of Sleeping Beauty. As you know, Jesus spoke in parables hidden messages. I want the readers to understand that the message is not so much about marriage, but more about how to become like Him. It is a transformational process. Once you become a better Christian, you will be a better wife, mother, friends, etc.

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
Marriage 101 is not for everyone. I believe it is for those who desire to go to the next level with God. It is time for Christians to stop just going to church and become the church – people experiencing God through you no matter where you are.

Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to have a successful marriage, in your opinion?
1: Renew YOUR mind – you can have a better relationship. Think on the positive things about your spouse and do not concentrate on the present situation.

2: Change YOUR behaviors and perception – to have better relationships requires YOU to do something different. Doing the same things but expecting different results is INSANITY. I know most of you have heard the saying, “You can’t change others, but you can change yourselves.” Therefore, you must be the change you want to see in your marriage.

3: Work YOUR marriage. In other words, marriage is work. Successful couples understand that they have to make their marriage a priority and they do something everyday to acknowledge it. You only get out of it what you put into it – deposit love daily.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
Traveling and teaching the eight biblical truths the Lord spoke to me. Holding marriage conferences and seminars to not only help those who are having trouble but helping keep those who already have great marriages strong.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
Marriage 101 was the Award-Winner in the Religion: Christian Inspiration category of the National Best Books 2009 Awards, sponsored by USA Book Best Books and the Marriage 101 Journal was a finalist. Marriage 101 is also listed as the #1 Bestseller list on Mosiacbooks.com. I have a four (4) book mini-series coming out in December 2009 that covers marriage topics we all face: Sex & Intimacy, Communication, Parenting, and Finance.

Contact Info & Links for Jewell R. Powell
Personal website:
http://www.marriage101.us/

Radio Talk Show
http://www.BlogTalkRadio.com/Marriage-101

To arrange publicity or speaking engagements, contact:
Carmen Pease, Publicist
(616) 676-9185 ext. 317
cpease@BakerPublishingGroup.com

Jewell R. Powell, Author
jewellrpowell@gmail.com


Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
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Even Sinners Have Souls Too Interview

Even Sinners Have Souls Too
Introduction by National Best selling author, K'Wan, with four stories by Darrell King and Essence Magazine bestselling authors, Michel Moore, Tysha and Victor L. Martin.





Meet author and editor E.N. Joy
E.N. Joy is the author of Me, Myself and Him, which was her debut work into the Christian Fiction genre. Formerly a secular author writing under the names Joylynn M. Jossel and JOY, this author has fully dedicated her writing to Christ. She is currently working on the “New Day Divas” series as well as completing the “Sinners Series” project.



Intimate Conversation with Ella Curry of EDC Creations


Ella: Introduce us to the book, Even Sinners Have Souls TOO.
E.N. Joy: Even Sinners Have Souls TOO is book two from the “Sinners Series”. As editor and publisher of this project, it was my goal to share with the reading audience well written and compelling stories by some of the industry’s most respected and authority authors in the Urban Lit genre.



Ella: Why was it important to produce this work today?
E.N. Joy: Books and authors of books that are categorized as urban, erotic, street, ghetto, gangster, Hip-Hop fiction, or whatever else they are being labeled, are taking hard hits in the industry, especially by these so-called “literary writers”. Why is it that whenever black people bring the life they live front and center and turn it into art, society goes crazy? Are we that afraid and offended of the ghetto and the projects to the point where we ridicule those who talk about it? Is growing up in the hood that taboo?

E.N. Joy: Despite popular belief, everything that comes from the ghetto isn’t all bad. There are some good products of the ghetto. It produces great individuals, some even authors. But because of the type of genre that these authors choose to pen, they are stigmatized and rumored unable to create literature without glorifying a trigger happy, drug dealing thug, or a burgundy micro braid wearing, gum poppin’, promiscuous gold digger, or a television stealing crack head (in addition to at least two curse words per paragraph).



Ella: Will this book change how Urban Lit is protrayed as a industry?
E.N. Joy: There is a huge misconception that authors who write Urban Lit, referred to as Street Lit by many, can’t pen a decent story that doesn’t include foul language and explicit sex scenes. These authors are even often accused of glorifying street life. The “Sinners Series” forces critics and skeptics alike to take a different stand when they read the storylines contained in the “Sinners Series.”




Ella: What are some unique aspects of the Sinners Series?
E.N. Joy: Even Sinners Have Souls Too offers more of Urban Lit's finest take a walk on the other side in book two, Even Sinners Have Souls Too, of the three book Sinners Series. Darrell King and Essence Best-Selling authors, Victor L. Martin, Tysha and Michel Moore bring you four smashing tales, but not before National Best-Selling author, K'Wan, hits you with the powerful introduction, "Oh Sinner Man."

E.N. Joy: The authors bring to life the same raw and gritty characters found in some of their other works. There are the dope boys, the hood rats, the promiscuity, homosexuality, the gang bangers, abuse, drugs, alcohol, etc...; all the things that exist in real life on the streets. But what makes these tales so phenomenal and unique is that in the midst of it all, just like in real life on the streets, there is also, God, prayer, and sometimes a praying grandmother. What pleased me the most about each and every story is that they never, for one moment, lost their authenticity. The authors still walked away from this project with their street credit, so to speak.




Ella: What impact with the Sinners Series have on the community?
E.N. Joy: The “Sinners Series” is going to shatter the myth about urban and street literature and its authors once and for all. This project is not so that authors have to defend their work, or even compromise it.

The purpose is to show that they are multi-talented with a natural gift to pen what flows through their spirit and not just what’s selling, and at the same time to add a creative twist on their already original writing styles. In doing so, we pray that readers will be touched and moved by every single character; every single story…that they won’t be the same person as they were before reading these works.

Website: http://www.enjoywrites.com/

ISBN-10: 0970672659 | ISBN-13: 978-0970672650

Pick up a copy at Amazon












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Color Me Jazzmyne By Marian L. Thomas


I would like to introduce you to a fantastic new book, Color Me Jazzmyne. Readers of Color Me Jazzmyne have been captivated by the depth of the emotional journey that the book takes them on. It digs deep into what it takes for women to embrace who they are no matter what size, color, educational background or social status. Sisters will learn to love themselves despite what society says or the voices that surround them!


Author Marian L . Thomas not only delivers her first novel but takes on real-life topics that are affecting society today. The topics that are discussed throughout her book are ones that are often rejected by mainstream publishing houses. She cuts to the core of serious subject matter: rape, the mental health of Black women, self-esteem issues with women and the cutthroat world of the music business and lands the reader into the thick of a good story.


Color Me Jazzmyne - By Marian L. Thomas
Listen to Chapter 1 and tell us how you feel about this topic.
http://www.hudsonaudiopublishing.com/player.php?file=Chapter1.mp3


“Color Me Jazzmyne” is an unconventional, yet fascinating first novel by Marian L. Thomas. 
At the frighteningly young age of thirteen, Naya Mona (later to be known as the famous jazz singer Jazzmyne) is raped by her own father and eventually gives birth to her son who is taken from her, his whereabouts unknown for many years. At seventeen, she escapes the intolerable household of her father to live in the city where her voice is discovered by the wrong people.

She meets struggle after struggle; people take advantage of her talent nearly wrecking her spirit, people she thought to be friends use her to get ahead in their own lives. But she does not break spirit, in spite of her many hardships. Later in life, as the story opens up, Jazzmyne meets her adult son for the first time since his birth. Many surprising facts are revealed about her past and her son’s past.

Jazzmyne likens her existence to a box of crayons. Each color expresses a different emotion, strength or weakness that makes up the essence of Jazzmyne. Thomas’ writing is so reflective and interesting.  But this is the purpose of the novel, to find out what color is Jazzmyne, which I still do not know or maybe do not understand her completely. Perhaps honesty is her color. In a world of hiding behind fame and from a past of deception from those who were supposed to be the closest, she wants only to be honest and real, especially concerning her son.

Thomas definitely cuts to the core of serious subject matter: rape and incest and the cutthroat world of the music business. The shocking reality of it all mixed with Jazzmyne’s relaxed and melodious voice makes “Color Me Jazzmyne” a true reading pleasure. The book is written in a kind of free flow, stream of consciousness style that one can hear her melody singing through the pages.

ISBN-10: 0615270670;  ISBN-13: 978-0615270678
Pick up a copy from Amazon , Barnes & Noble.com , or a Kindle download
Email: larrita@lbpublishingco.com ;  Website: http://www.marianlthomas.com/


Snippet of a Review by Hudson Audio Publishing
http://www.hudsonaudiopublishing.com/featured.html

The Legend of Quito Road by Dwight Fryer


The Legend of Quito Road by Dwight Fryer

The Future seems to hold limited possibilities for Son Erby. The African-American child of a farm laborer in 1930’s Tennessee, his fate seems as certain as the sunset at day’s end. But when his father takes him to work at the Coleman farm and hands down the secret to making corn liquor, everything changes.

Moving from shadowed parlors of the wealthy Sawyer clan to the illegal activities in the woods along the Mississippi River, this perspective novel explores the roots of racism, and the dangerous power of secrets that will shatter every taboo in a sleepy town caught between the past and future. The Legend of Quito Road is a look at a bygone time, the sobering echoes of which can still be heard today.


Chapter 7—A SECRET SCIENCE

In the scene below from The Legend of Quito Road, Papa Gill Erby, a religious man, teaches his only boy how to make illegal whiskey and keep secrets. Are there really many spiritual or physical differences in making crack cocaine or crystal meth today and white lightning yesterday?


“Now, Son, this is serious business, awful serious for a boy. Remember when we talked about the Ghost of Quito Road yesterday?”

“Yessuh, he was a runaway slave.”

“Son, I said that and plenty folks ‘round here know it. But they don’t talk it in public. I waited five years after we married befo’ I spoke with Sarah on this. Now, I’m telling you that the Ghost wasn’t just any man. He was my daddy, Gillam Hale.”

“Gillam Hale…” The boy paused while he processed it. “Papa, why’s your daddy’s name different than ours?”

“Well, I’ll tell you that long story after we get things set up. But, for now, I need to get a few things straight. Understand?”

“Yessuh, I do.”

“Son, remember, you promised. You know Sarah gone ask, but don’t you tell yo’ momma one thing. You hear me?”

“Yessuh.”

“This week, we doing the same thing that made Gillam Hale a valuable slave to the white folks.” Papa Gill looked around as if someone else was there. One of the mules snorted. He whispered, “Me and you gone make whiskey this week on the Coleman place.”

“Whiskey?” the youth said, twisting his face.

“Yeah, that’s what we gonna do. We’ll fill every five-gallon jug in the back of this wagon with white-lightning whiskey.”

“Papa, we got twenty-five jugs! What’s Mr. Rafe and Mr. Conrad gone do with all that whiskey?”

“Sell it!” Papa Gill spat out. “They’ll probably get as much as six dollars a gallon off the whiskey we fixin’ to make.”

Papa Gill placed his left hand inside his overalls and a strained silence surrounded them from the naked roadside underbrush. Only the noises of the mule team’s hooves and the slicing sound from the steel-lined wagon wheels echoed along sandy Quito Road.

Son’s breath trails thickened in the winter air as he did the math in his head and pondered the economic possibilities.

On that farm, Mr. Conrad and Mr. Rafe Coleman raised cotton, sorghum and corn—corn so sweet that Son liked to eat it straight off the cob in the field during the summer months. You could use corn for feed or you could grind it into meal. But during this third week of December in 1932, thirteen-year-old Son Erby learned you could use corn for something else.

That week, Papa Gill taught his son to make white lightning like Gillam Hale had showed him. Making illegal corn liquor changed everything for that colored boy. Son was never the same. He learned a secret science and he learned it well.

Pick up a copy today at Amazon
ISBN-10: 1583147063 | ISBN-13: 978-1583147061
http://www.amazon.com/Legend-Quito-Road-Sepia/dp/1583147063


Meet author Dwight Fryer
Fryer shares from his twenty-five years of business experience in leadership, technology, finance, accounting, marketing and publishing. He has written two critically acclaimed novels. The Legend of Quito Road and The Knees of Gullah Island. Dwight speaks about life, healthcare, business, leadership, history, literature, community and storytelling. The University of Memphis teaches The Legend of Quito Road in its Masters of Fine Arts Program in the English Department.

Dwight Fryer has inspired audiences at universities, corporations, schools, faith communities and nonprofit organizations. His passion is to help people do all they can to succeed and use his experiences to inspire others.

Fryer was diagnosed with cancer two days after a 1998 layoff. In 2001, the disease meningococcal meningitis took his youngest daughter’s life. He works as an advocate for immunization against bacterial meningitis with the National Meningitis Association. He survived a wreck caused by a driver under the influence. Contact him today for details on how he can share at your next event via email at author@dwightfryer.com

Tour: Buying Time by Pamela Samuels Young


Legal Thriller:  Buying Time
by Pamela Samuels Young


Waverly Sloan is a down-on-his-luck lawyer. But just when he's about to hit rock bottom, he stumbles upon a business with the potential to solve all of his problems.

In Waverly's new line of work, he comes to the aid of people in desperate need of cash. But there's a catch. His clients must be terminally ill and willing to sign over rights to their life insurance policies before they can collect a dime. Waverly then finds investors eager to advance them thousands of dollars—including a hefty broker's fee for himself—in exchange for a significant return on their investment once the clients take their last breath.

The stakes get higher when Waverly brokers the policy of the cancer-stricken wife of Lawrence Erickson, a high-powered lawyer who's bucking to become the next U.S. Attorney General. When Waverly's clients start dying sooner than they should, both Waverly and Erickson—who has some skeletons of his own to hide—are unwittingly drawn into a perilous web of greed, blackmail and murder.



Meet the Author

Join author Pamela Samuels Young for her online book tour November 2-10, 2009.  You are invited to participate in online reading sessions, contests, bookclub giveaways, radio interviews and guest blogging sessions. Meet her online from the comforts of your home to celebrate the release of  Buying Time.  Explore the tour below and join us at your favorite network!

Pamela Samuels Young is the Essence bestselling author of Murder on the Down Low, In Firm Pursuit, Every Reasonable Doubt and the newly released Buying Time. The former journalist and Compton native is the fiction writing expert for BizyMoms.com and is on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. Pamela served as legal consultant to the Showtime television series Soul Food. She is a frequent speaker on the topics of writing and self-empowerment. View her books here and read excerpts: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/





Book Tour: Buying Time by Pamela Samuels Young

Meet Pamela and First Chapter Showcases

Lady Serenity Radio Talk Show
Showcase: December 21, 2009 at 5pm
http://www.BlogTalkRadio.com/Lady-Serenity

White Readers Meet Black Authors
RAWSistaz Guest Spotlight
Black Men in America-Frontpage Spotlight
Shelia M Goss Guest Spotlight
Shelia E. Lipsey Guest Spotlight
ASA (Authors Supporting Authors)
Motown Writers Network Guest Blogger
Arlinda McGlothin Spotlights
Erotic Expressions hosts Guest Bloggers
Simply Said Reading Accessories Guest Blogger
Unika Molden The Unique Reviewer
EDC Creations at CafeMom.com
EDC Creations at MySpace
Black Pearls Magazine Blog
iZania Black Networking Community
Black Authors Network Blog
Thick N Sexy Readers
United Black Writers
Urban Reviews Yahoo Group
Black Book Lovers
Ebony Authors & Readers
My Sistah's Keeper
PASSION 4READING
Our Books Yahoo Group
The Literary World
Nubian Readers of the Bay Area




Book Tour Online Day 1


Essence Magazine at Facebook
iSeeColor Community
African American Book Club iSeeColor Community
Sista Talk
International Book Club Guild
The People's Lounge
Book Marketing Network
SLS Book Discussion Center



Book Tour Online  Day 2

Black Pearls Magazine at Facebook
Sneak Peek: Chapter 35, Buying Time by Pamela Samuels Young
Make The Dream Happen by Pamela Samuels Young
Don’t Give Up! by Pamela Samuels Young
Writing Tip: Keep your Readers Turning the Pages
African American Fiction Book Club
The Professional Black Woman at Facebook



Book Tour Online  Day 3

Chocolate Pages Network at Facebook
Women In Christian Media
Literature Society (LS) at Facebook
KINDRED SOULS SISTER CIRCLE
L.O.O.P. (Ladies Operating On Purpose)
I Am My Sister's Keeper (iask, Inc.)
Genre Book Club



Book Tour Online  Day 4

FB African American Fiction Lovers
African Americans on the Move Book Club
FB Fiction BOOK CLUB
FB Literature
FB General Discussion Group
FB Book Club 2
Black Authors Network



Book Tour Online Day 5

Black Book Clubs
Written Magazine Community
Black Authors On Fire
Book Talk Time with Tiffany
The Rapturous Reader
Earl Sewell African American Book Clubs
Mahogany Bookclub at Ning



Book Tour Online Day 6

Sister 2 Sister at BlackVoices
Young, Black and Gifted Journalists
Mothers of Wisdom
My Brothers Keeper.com
Crucial Diva
We Are One
Each-One-Teach-One



Book Tour Online  Day 7

African Americans.NET
Black Internet Marketers
Black In America.com
Black History.com
Black Authors Connect.com
Black Women Connect.com
Black Single Women Connect Support Group



Book Tour Online  Day 8

The Inklings Community
The Beautiful People
Verbal Penetrations
African American by Association
Girl Talk Community
Mahogany Book Club
Moms Who Shop


Read more book excerpts here: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/books/index.html

Bookclubs, select one of Pamela’s novels for your book club meeting and she will join you in person, via webcam or via speaker phone. To schedule a visit with Pamela or a live reading from Buying Time, email her at:  author@pamelasamuelsyoung.com. Read more book excerpts here: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/books/index.html



Buying Time by Pamela Samuels Young
ISBN-10: 098156271X   |   ISBN-13: 978-0981562711

Pick up a Copy Today at Amazon
http://tinyurl.com/buyingtimeamazon

Pick up a Copy Today at Barnes and Noble
http://tinyurl.com/buyingtimebnonline


Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.

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