The Scroll: Inspiration from America's Most Revered Spiritual Leaders by Parrish Smith

The Scroll
Inspiration from America's Most Revered Spiritual Leaders

by Parrish Smith



Life-Changing Inspiration. Unwavering Support. Scrolls have always been considered sacred, filled with prophecy and direction.


Now, America's most beloved spiritual leaders share their own contemporary wisdom and vision through candid, uplifting, personal stories of struggle, doubt, and ultimately, blessed understanding. Featured in the award-winning documentary series The Scroll, these modern-day prophets reveal more of themselves, their journeys, and their invaluable insights than ever before.

** Featuring:


Bishop T.D. Jakes
Bishop Hezekiah Walker
Dr. Calvin Butts
Rev. Bernice King
Rev. Al Sharpton
Rev. Jesse Jackson
Bishop George C. Searight
Dr. Marvin Sapp
Dr. Jamal Bryant

Finding our life's purpose. Creating lasting relationships. Surviving tragedy. Releasing self-destructive thoughts. These are just some of the trials faced--and joyously overcome--in these heartfelt accounts that are as healing as they are unforgettable. Each tale features illustrative Bible verses, related parables, and transformative spiritual advice. A treasure for all time, The Scroll will hold you up through life's unexpected challenges--and lead you to life's greatest rewards.

"If you listen, other people will help you understand your calling in life and acknowledge your destiny. But it is important to listen. God speaks through other people. God uses people to help us identify ourselves." --Bishop T.D. Jakes

** Featuring:

Bishop Noel Jones
Dr. Jeremiah Wright, Jr.
Dr. Bill Winston
Bishop Kenneth Ulmer
Rev. Wess Morgan
Bishop Vashti McKenzie
Rev. Jeffrey Johnson
Dr. R.A. Vernon
Bishop Charles Blake
Pastor John Jenkins
Dr. Alyn Waller
Dr. DeForest Soaries, Jr.
Dr. Frederick Haynes III
Dr. Larry Macon
Dr. Perry Simmons
Rev. Corey Brooks
Rev. Stanley Dumornay


Read an Excerpt from The Scroll

CHAPTER 1

FAITH



Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.
—MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.


For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8–9

Doubt. Uncertainty. Suspicion. These are all feelings that can infiltrate our thoughts, causing us to think the worst about a situation or individual. However, faith is the light that keeps us going through the storm, through the hardship, believing that all will turn out for the best.

We need faith throughout our lives. When a stranger enters our lives, we need faith to trust that person to be who he or she claims to be, to a certain extent anyway. When an illness such as cancer or dementia enters our lives, we need faith to believe we can beat the odds and live long and productive lives.

In this chapter, you will hear different accounts about how faith was imperative to help overcome tragedy, fight injustice, achieve goals, enhance self-awareness, battle addiction, and fight the odds.


A Promise
Bishop T. D. Jakes


I think the more you learn about life, the more you recognize that you don't know. Much like the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. l think the beginning of wisdom is recognizing that you don't know everything.

PREACHING ABOUT THE ableness of God while his house's lights and water were turned off was a trying season for Bishop Jakes, who was married with two children. His car had also been repossessed, so he was forced to take the bus uptown to the power company, hoping they would restore his power. The representative he spoke with was condescending, almost as if she was trying to hold this great power over him. The lady belittled and berated him, telling Bishop Jakes he was wasting his time on his appeal. Humiliation consumed him until tears streamed down his face. He left the building, and after he had walked several blocks in total frustration, the Lord spoke the sweetest words to Bishop Jakes, saying, "I will not suffer thy foot to be moved."

God knew that Bishop Jakes was a young father and husband. At that time, he had lost his union job working for a car-manufacturing plant, and he had visions of being homeless and sleeping in a cardboard box. His church had a few people, but his salary was not enough to sustain a family. He recalls that God did not fix his situation right away, but God did not let him fall, either. Thus, Bishop Jakes learned how to live suspended, neither successful nor destroyed. He was suspended on the edge of a cliff, sustained by nothing but a promise, but sometimes a promise was all he needed to hang on. Over time the promise produced, but he learned how to hear God's voice when he was hurting, and he learned that God is faithful, even when we are fearful.


Mustard Seed Faith

Overcoming obstacles in a time of crisis and staying calm enough to hear God's words are easier than they sound. However, many of us have faced challenges and seasons of hardships. In an episode of Oprah's Lifeclass, Oprah Winfrey spoke about facing obstacles and the little bit of faith needed to pull you through.

Oprah's grandmother raised her in the church. As a young girl, every Sunday like clockwork, she would sit in the second row, taking it all in. Listening to Bible stories, she would hear that through God all things are possible. In particular she remembers hearing the story of Jesus teaching that if you have the faith of a mustard seed, you can move mountains, making anything possible. It wasn't until years later, as an adult, when actually holding a mustard seed in her hand and seeing its minuscule size, that she truly understood the lesson. Moving forward, Oprah realized that as long as she possessed the faith of a mustard seed, she would be able to live the quality of life she manifested and could overcome obstacles.


Build Faith
Having strong faith should be important in your life. Faith is the one weapon that can get you through just about any situation, no matter how tough it may seem. Faith affects all aspects of our lives, and once it is developed, it will make us better people. Following are four ways to build faith in your life.

BELIEVE.  Faith is belief. As a believer in God, you have to acknowledge that God is the source of your faith.

PATIENCE.  Change is not always instant, happening overnight. You must have tolerance and patience to weather the storm and stay the course. True faith requires patience.

STUDY.  Read the Bible. Attend Bible study, retreats, conferences, and meetings. Study and comprehend the scripture, so you can apply it in your life. Realize that His word is true; it is not a lie.

PRAYER.
  Speak to God. Develop communication, adopting a personal relationship with God. Reflect on His word, allowing it to transform you.

Lastly, do not be hesitant to seek counsel with friends, relatives, ministers, and those who you feel have a deep faith. Ask them questions about their faith: What makes it grow? Are they ever doubtful? If so, how do they overcome doubt, allowing their faith to take charge of their lives? Many people have walked in your shoes and still face similar bouts with faith and belief. Conversation is healthy.

Reflection

Sometimes we feel we need pope-like faith to overcome obstacles. However, a tiny bit of faith mixed with work on our end can move mountains.

He said to them, Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, "Move from here to there," and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. Matthew 17:20


The Prophetic New
Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer


God says I want to do something in your life that is new The word "new" means unprecedented. It means "new in kind." It means "brand-new"; something that's never been done before. And if God is calling me to do something that has never been done before, how do I recognize it? I think God calls me to have faith beyond a point of reference.

A PROPHECY IS a prediction, a forecast of a situation that has not happened yet; we do not know when it will happen, but it will. Believing in prophecy can be extremely difficult because acquiring that belief is a journey that requires faith to assist with the travel. We can sometimes visualize the prophetic word or phrase, and sometimes we have no clue what the prophetic word means. This is because it is brand-new. It is so new that without God's revelation we will not see the prophecy.

Bishop Ulmer refers to situations that will happen in our lives for the better; however, at first we will not be able to grasp the prediction because it is new. It is a prediction that we never heard anything about before in our lives. The word "new" is synonymous with "unfamiliar." Thus, how can we accept and prepare ourselves for a prediction in our lives when it is not familiar to us? That statement sounds almost impossible. Furthermore, Bishop Ulmer speaks about how we naturally cling to ideas or concepts that are familiar to us, for which we have a point of reference. He explains that our natural tendency is to dream, see, and expect only that which is at best a variation of what we've already dreamed, already seen, or already expected. God wants to do something in our lives that we've never seen before. Therefore, we need the faith of God, the kind of faith only God has. It is not our faith. God gives us that faith to recognize the prophetic new as it surfaces in our lives. It is that prophetic new that we've never seen, but God says, "Trust Me to do what I have never done in your life before."


Be Open to Change
Growth requires change. Without change we are standing still and only aging physically. I am sure many of us have desired to make a change in our lives and have asked God to help impart that change. However, remaining stuck in the same thought, the same path, the same speech, is not accepting the true nature of life. To improve our lives, to mature, to reap the benefits of what God has in store, we need to abandon the wrong way. We are all capable of change, regardless of our age. The saying "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" is not true. If you desire change, you can change. Following are five techniques to help you make the change you seek.


REFLECT. 
Think about or write down your likes and dislikes. You need to connect with yourself, understanding your positives and negatives.

CONFRONT OBSTACLES.  Many times people are reluctant to change because they foresee roadblocks. Figure out the challenge and define what is holding you back. Once the issue is realized, you can make a solid plan to overcome it.

STRATEGIZE.  Once you realize where you are and where you want to go, make a plan and develop a strategy for how to execute the plan.

BUILD HABITS.
  Form positive habits that will allow you to stay on course. For example, if you wake up late in the morning, become an early riser. If you are easily distracted, identify the distractions and eliminate them from your daily activity or from certain days of the week.

KEEP AT IT.  Continue to work at the change every day. It will take a while before it becomes a part of you. If you find yourself reverting back to old ways, figure out where you slipped, and return to the basics to get back on track.


Look for the Unfamiliar
Change that we personally seek is easy to accept. But what happens when God has a path for us that is unfamiliar? It is difficult to embrace the kind of change that our minds cannot perceive. Bishop Ulmer spoke about remaining open so that God can implement change that is new and unprecedented in our lives. This kind of change usually catches us off guard, because we expect to head in one direction, only to be redirected in a different direction that we did not know existed.

For example, a few years ago I read a story about a middle-aged woman named Tracy who kept seeking a husband. Tracy would date often, and a few times she came close to marriage, but it never happened. The closest she came was engagement, but soon after, the relationship took a nosedive. Like clockwork, Tracy always asked God for help in finding a good man. Tracy's process for finding Mr. Right was always the same. She had a list of qualities and physical attributes the man needed for her to be attracted to him and to take him seriously. Tracy's list was pretty extensive and intensely precise. It was so precise, Tracy was blind to any man that did not match or look similar to anything on her list. After a string of disappointments, Tracy discussed the situation with her girlfriend Robin, and Robin's advice was to put the list aside for a while and try something new, because Tracy's way of finding a husband was not working. Tracy asked Robin a common question: "If I do not have my list, how will I recognize the right man for me?" Robin told Tracy to keep her eyes open and trust that she would recognize Mr. Right, even though he probably would not resemble anything on her list—and he shouldn't, anyway. Ten years later, Tracy was happily married with a family, and the man she married was not similar to her list in many ways. However, Tracy trusted Robin's advice and kept herself open and accessible to something new. Chances favor the open mind.

Reflection
To make a change in life, we need to accept new ideas and practice new ways, even if we do not initially recognize the change entering our lives because it is unfamiliar.

I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13



Overcoming
Rev. Dr. Perry Simmons, JR.


Only one out of every three students who enters Mortis Brown as a freshman graduates in fur years. I looked to the person on my left and right and said you might as well go home now, because I am staying and graduating.

GROWING UP, DR. Simmons had a desire to go to college. He was one of eleven children, raised in the South, where his parents never made more than a nickel above minimum wage. Attending college was unthinkable under those circumstances, but Dr. Simmons was driven. During his senior year in high school, he received his first job, making fifty dollars a week working alongside a concrete finisher. After paying five dollars for carfare and five dollars in taxes, he was left with forty dollars. He then deducted ten percent from the forty dollars and donated it to anyone in his area in need. His father did not agree with his giving his money away, because he needed all he could earn for college. However, Dr. Simmons believed that you receive by giving.

Months later, Dr. Simmons arrived at Morris Brown in Atlanta. On registration day he got in line and signed up for all his classes. The last stop was paying tuition. He stood at the window and told the college representative that all he had was fifteen dollars but he wanted to attend the school. The representative gave him a note to see the president. As he entered the president's office, he saw that hundreds of other students with the same problem stood in the office. Finally he spoke with the president, informing him that he had no money and that he had turned down basketball scholarships from other colleges because he wanted to attend a private Christian college.

The president of Morris Brown signed a sheet of paper allowing Dr. Simmons to finish registration without any money. Dr. Simmons got a job washing dishes in the dining hall and attended classes in between meals. When basketball season arrived, Dr. Simmons tried out for and made the team, but the coach notified Dr. Simmons that his budget for scholarship money was depleted. The coach was, however, able to assist him with buying books. As the first year came to a close, Dr. Simmons received special permission to take final exams because he still owed the college for the entire year's tuition. The following year, he received a basketball scholarship and ultimately finished school. When he graduated, he had a surplus of money, the opposite of when he'd first enrolled.


(  Continues...   )


Excerpted from The Scroll by Parrish Smith. Copyright © 2014 Parrish Smith. Excerpted by permission of KENSINGTON PUBLISHING CORP. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.


WATCH THE SCROLL VIDEO INTRODUCTION
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-scroll-parrish-smith/1114373226



The Scroll: Inspiration from America's Most Revered Spiritual Leaders

Inspirational; Self Help; Religious; Christian Life Guidance
http://www.amazon.com/The-Scroll-Parrish-Smith/dp/1617734551
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-scroll-parrish-smith/1114373226


About Parrish Smith
Parrish Smith
is an award winning filmmaker whose projects have appeared on numerous networks and at film festivals. As a child and the son of a preacher, he always fell asleep in church. Nevertheless, it was the storytelling used by preachers during their sermons that engaged him, making the Word relevant to everyday life. Now, he strives to create projects that make a difference in people’s lives, leaving them inspired.

The Scroll is his first film and book combination that uses the stories of wise and insightful spiritual leaders as a way to assist people as they face life’s struggles.

Parrish Smith graduate of Howard University and raised in Newark, NJ. He is a Director and Cinematographer. He has produced and shot numerous feature films, documentaries, short films, commercials, and music videos that have appeared on numerous networks, film festivals, and DVD.

A few of his broadcast and DVD credits are “Kingdom Comedy” featuring Rickey Smiley, airing on TV ONE, “Four College Kids” and “Destiny” on BET as well as “Unjust Cause” on Showtime and additional credits for UPN and BET networks. In addition, Parrish has completed work for such companies as; Gillette, Kraft, L’Oreal, and Ford just to name a few.

Recently, Parrish just completed production on a faith based feature film entitled “Nocturnal Agony” starring Lawrence Hilton Jacobs, Vernee Watson, and Bishop Hezekiah Walker. Currently, he is in production on The Scroll: The Last Chapter. Parrish continues to strive to be an effective visual communicator and trans-formative artist.




His Until Sunrise by Joy Avery


After learning her boss has scheduled a mandatory team-building excursion, financial planner Nona Rogers panics.  What does she know about camping?  Nada.  Zilch.  Heck, she doesn’t even like picnics.  And the thought of sleeping amid bugs and wild animals knots her stomach.

No way can she risk looking like an idiot in front of her colleagues.  Taking proactive measures, she acquires the services of a guide to give her a crash-course in camping.  Seven days living off the land.  How hard could it be?  Nona swallows those words when she meets the sexy titan tasked with leading her into the wild.  Getting mauled by a bear quickly becomes the least of her worries.

Mason Tinsdale’s first love has always been oil rigging.  But a horrible accident has him doubting the job—more importantly, himself.  Seven days in the Indigo Falls wilderness is just what he needs to sort out his thoughts.  Then he meets Nona Rogers.  He’s convinced the gorgeous woman is going to be far more trouble than she’s worth.  And he’s right.  However, there’s something about the feisty vixen that makes her irresistible.

Two guarded hearts.  Seven days alone.  An attraction that can’t be denied.


Chapter One Excerpt


When her boss had called her into his office under the pretense of “good news,” Nona Rogers assumed she was on tap for a raise, a bigger office, a promotion, even. No such luck. His idea of good news had been the scheduling of a week long, mandatory, camping expedition.

Camping. She didn’t even like picnics.

Nona spurned the thought with the same amount of disdain now as she had a month ago when Mr. White had sat behind his hand-carved desk and shared the news with her.

At least he’d given her enough notice to take proactive measures. Measures that included enlisting the services of a guide to teach her the ins and outs of camping. No way would she be the only one—not to mention only female—on the company outing who couldn’t survive the wilds.

Now here she sat, in the middle of nowhere, with her hired hand, ready to tackle the great outdoors. She was still waiting to discover what was so dang great about it.

A rush of Mason Tinsdale’s oaky cologne filled her nostrils when he opened the SUV door. It also filled her with a tingling awareness. God, she loved a good smelling man.

How in the hell could she have forgotten how handsome Mason was? Time did that, dissolved the small things from your memory bank. It’d been over six years since the last time she’d seen him, at her best friend Brianna’s wedding. When she returned to civilization, she would have a few words with the woman. She could have reminded her of how fine he was.

Good-looking, brawny, and a grieving widower. A dangerous, yet safe combination.

Nona hesitated exiting the black Range Rover they’d arrived in as a mammoth-sized bird—she’d have guessed a pterodactyl, had they not been extinct—soared overhead. The creature showed minimal respect for their higher ranking on the food chain when it dropped a load the size of a dinner plate on the windshield.

Nona’s face contorted into a tight ball of disgust. Gross. She closed her eyes and shook her head. Just one more reason why she shouldn’t have been there—disrespectful wildlife.

And as if there weren’t already enough reasons: snakes, bears, rabid foxes, load-dropping pterodactyls…she could add, mouth-watering, drop-dead gorgeous man to the mix.

She and Mason hadn’t spoken much on the drive to wherever the hell they were, because she’d spent most of the four-hour ride typing away on her laptop. Yes, she was supposed to be on “vacation,” but there was work to be done. Always work to be done. She sighed inwardly. She needed a life. One that didn’t consist of all work and no play.

Somewhere between typing a memo and sending emails, she’d fallen asleep; awakening just in time to see the sign on the highway that read: Welcome to Indigo Falls. It’d been the last sign she’d seen before pulling onto a gravel road.

She’d never even heard of Indigo Falls. And she’d lived in North Carolina all of her life. The mountains in the distance told her she was far from home, and definitely out of her comfort zone.

“You okay?” Mason asked.

His velvety voice soothed her nerves. Had he been informed of her fear of the woods? If so, she would strangle her BFF. Nona flashed a half-smile. Show no fear. “Fine, yes.”

“You gonna get out?” he asked, standing inside the opened driver’s side door.

The cool breeze wafted another delicious dose of his cologne in her direction. “Ahm...yes. Yes, I am.” She gripped at the door handle like an inebriated buffoon. Mason laughed and she swore music notes floated from his mouth.

Jesus, this is going to be the longest seven days of my life.

Camping with a man who reminded her with just a sexy chuckle that she was all woman. What the hell could she have been thinking? She should have said no the second she opened her front door to see Mason there. The way her mouth had gone dry should have served as her first warning.

Sun-dried leaves and pine needles crunched under Nona’s feet when she finally stumbled from the vehicle. The crisp air was void of exhaust fumes, which was refreshing. It brought a smile to her face. She surveyed the endless mass of lush, green trees and her isolated location.

Had her best friend not assured her Mason was one hundred percent harmless—and an absolute gentleman—she would have been uncomfortable alone in the woods with a complete stranger. Well, complete if you didn’t take into consideration their brief encounter six years ago. But there was something about him she couldn’t quite put her finger on that told her she was in good hands. Maybe it had been the sight of his strong hands gripped around the steering wheel, handling the oversized vehicle with ease and precision that caused her to feel that way.

Speaking of vehicles, she hadn’t seen another one since they’d turned onto the gravel road. No people, no forest ranger, hell, not even a park sign welcoming them to the wooded area.

Nona’s cell phone screen flashed no service and alarm set in, twisting her stomach into a tight knot. How in the hell would she call for help if Big Foot attacked?

Quit being paranoid, Nona, and get yourself together.


( Continued... )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Joy Avery.  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.
 

HIS UNTIL SUNRISE Book Trailer: 
http://youtu.be/w-pVnUETcfc




PURCHASE HIS UNTIL SUNRISE
Indigo Falls Romance, Book 1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Book available at:  http://amzn.to/1khOWvj
http://www.amazon.com/Until-Sunrise-Indigo-Falls-romance-ebook/dp/B00MDKREOK



Meet the Author
Joy Avery
is a North Carolina native with a passion for penning contemporary romances. When she's not writing, she enjoys reading, cake decorating, pretending to expertly play the piano, driving her husband insane, and playing with her sixteen-pound peek-a-poo and hundred-pound Rottweiler.

There’s plenty of emotion in a Joy Avery romance. Sometimes there are obstacles and hurdles in love, and she enjoys showing this in her novels. Her stories guide readers along the rutted roads of love, delivering them to a gratifying happily ever after.

Romance is Joy’s genre of choice, because she enjoys the experience of characters overcoming the barriers that have held them back from finding true love. Plus, she loves happily ever afters.

HIS UNTIL SUNRISE is Joy’s second novel. Her first novel, SMOKE IN THE CITI, garnered attention for having well-developed and believable characters, as well as refreshing humor. She is currently working on Book 2 of her Indigo Falls series.  Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Heart of Carolina Romance Writers.

www.joyavery.com
www.facebook.com/authorjoyavery
www.twitter.com/authorjoyavery
www.goodreads.com/authorjoyavery
www.amazon.com/author/joyavery

First Chapter from Taming The Female Impostor by Dr. View



"Dr. Vie’s book will inspire many to change their lifestyle and way of thinking for better health, peace of mind and harmony." - Dr. Verma, Ayurveda Doctor,  India

Ancient secrets to creating the new woman - feminine, creative and super-conscious.  She is the healing power to change the future of our Planet Earth. Coming in August, 2014. (400 pages)

Taming The Female Impostor:  Book of Secrets to Rescuing Humanity - There is a global crisis where crime, illness and unhappiness are increasing, world-wide. The Book of Secrets uses fantasy characters to unravel shocking new insights into the root cause of the problems, and reveals the Magical Weapons of Veedinti, tools to restore peace, love and joy in your personal life, in your communities, nation and the world at large. The book is ideal for men and women, from teens to seniors seeking to improve their lives in general, and especially, in the areas of sexuality, family, food, friendships, work, relaxation and introspection.  Through The Great Rescue Game (for children) and Taming the Human Impostor (for adults), you learn how to implement the tools in daily living. Dr. Vie Academy and Dr. Vie Radio Show: “Who Do You Think You Are?” stimulate further interaction.


Book Reviews for Taming The Female Impostor

"Finally! After millenniums of spiritual teachings primarily by and geared to men, teachings which have dismissed and often denigrated feminine wisdom and power, comes Dr. Vie's much needed guidance to help women cultivate and unleash their essential spirit. And just in time, so we wisely use balance feminine-masculine energy and co-create the healthy and harmonious evolution of humankind."~ Ellen Eatough, MA, Extatica, San Francisco

“The first word that comes to mind is inspiring. One inspiration is Dr. Vie herself who finds her own power in her extraordinary story. Another is the wisdom passed down through the Book of Secrets that tells of the power of women. We don’t always see the power in ourselves, but here in the words of this book it can be found, and self-confidence can flourish.” ~Melissa C. Water, Author, Lady Injury, Toronto

The book integrates lifes most sought after questions into a captivating tale and journey, where the reader can explore who they are, how to find true peace and the meaning of life. Dr. Vie radiates compassion, courage and love as she inspires service to humanity and our great planet.  ~Jenni Parly, Life Coach, Los Angeles

“Every once in a while there comes along a book that captivates the mind and uplifts the soul. This is one of those books. In real life Dr. Vie has managed to maneuver through global cultures with ease and finesse.  With the same level of sophistication, she weaves a tapestry of universality in her book.  Each of us has the ability to rise above our circumstance, be it racism, sexism, environmental issues or cultural and religious biases. Each of us can choose to reject change and remain the same or board the “Life Express” and embrace the change. This winning book will appeal to a wide range of audiences globally.”  ~Lena McCalla Njee, MA, Special Education, Author, Autism Inspires.  Teacher of the Year 2011-2012, Nominee -2014 Governor of the Year Award, New Jersey

“Through new insights, Dr. Vie unravels the root cause of the female global crises, and provides powerful practical tools to restore peace, health and vitality,”  ~Dr. John Gray, Author, Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, San Francisco

 “I have worked all of my professional life with high performance women, whether it was a National Team, a University varsity team or our leading entertainment company. Dr. Vie is certainly an elite, high performance person regardless of the field she chooses to endeavor in to! Dr. Vie is a pioneer in each field she chooses to focus on! I’ve loved Dr. Vie SuperFoods since 2007. Now, yet again, through this book she reveals fascinating perspectives and intuitive wisdom, making it a must read, for men also.”  ~Boris Verkhovsky, Former National Acrobatics Team Head Coach, Montreal


First Chapter from Taming The Female Impostor

Ch 1. Who Do You Think You Are?



At 29,000 feet above sea level, the tranquility of the Great Himalayas took Shakti’s breath away. She had waited twenty-five years for this day, for this moment. She had been preparing her whole life for this feeling, this state of being one with her true Self.

The tiny Indian woman, slender at 45kg (99 lbs.) and barely five feet tall, perched her body cross-legged on the bare rock surrounded by an expanse of virgin snow. She drank in the beauty around her, became mindful, lowered her eyelids, and took in a deep breath through her nostrils. She held it as she focused the energy on her third eye. In that moment of silence and super-consciousness, she was one with her true identity. She became a witness of her past life and the future.

As quickly as her rollercoaster past sped before her, the future shone so brightly that it startled her delicate frame. She opened her eyes briefly, took in another deep breath, and started to soar into the oneness of the eternal existence as she began to meditate in the home of the gods and goddesses, the land of her roots. She was blissfully peaceful.

It was only last week that she was in Australia, the country of her birth, spending a quiet Sunday afternoon with her dearest mother. Shakti had not been home for ten years. While sitting at the cozy dining table, she was startled when she said something aloud. It seemed as if the words were pouring out of her being. Once the words were spoken, she knew what was going to happen. Been there, done that! She had experienced that sensation hundreds of times before. . . .

When Shakti was a little girl growing up in Melbourne, she often experienced moments where she would say certain words without much control over what she was saying. It would seem as if someone else were saying those words through her. Strangely enough, within a few months, the very words that she had spoken, like a premonition, would turn into reality. As she grew into a young woman, the time between what she said and it happening became shorter and shorter. Eventually she learned to pay closer attention to the power of her words.

So when she casually said, “Mom, we should go to India,” Shakti’s mother was not at all surprised. Parvathi was quite used to her only child’s adventurous spirit. As her mother, Parvathi had partaken of so many of her child’s amazing experiences around the planet, and she could sense that yet another was unfolding.

Within a week, the Boeing was landing in Mumbai at Chhatrapati Shivaji airport, carrying two excited women on board. Their next adventure had begun. They were in India, among over a billion people.

As Shakti sank into deep meditation high in the Himalayas, images of women, children, babies, and the elderly from around the world entered her vision. Their wretched faces were lined with tears and wrinkled with pain. She could feel their emotions, their profound hurt, and their desperate desire for change, for hope, and for salvation. She shuddered at times as the images became stronger, closer, and clearer. Mothers were carrying babies on their hips, sobbing from hunger and dying of disease.

Young girls who had been violated by their family members were crying themselves to sleep, hoping for a miracle. There were women so overweight they could barely walk without discomfort. Some of them were in motorized chairs. Other women were skeletally thin from the ravages of anorexia. Elderly women appeared fatigued by pain, suffering with brain disease and dementia. Young females were crying out, on the brink of ending their lives because of depression. The pain ripped through Shakti’s light body as the sorrow of millions and billions of individual souls entered her, sharp as knives. Oh, dear heavens above, what pain, what sorrow, what helplessness, what desperation, what cries for help she experienced in that fleeting moment! Why was there so much suffering? Where was peace?

Just as quickly, a feeling of loving warmth enveloped her, as if a new era had dawned. She witnessed, through her third eye, women of every color smiling, arms held high as if reaching for the stars, dancing to the rhythm of their cultural music. Billions of women all around the world danced. Tears of joy streamed down Shakti’s face as she continued to observe throngs of children surrounding these women, their tiny faces filled with glee, dancing in rhythm to the sways of the blissful women.

All around the unsuspecting world, this dance emerged, this vibration of peace, this feeling of complete awareness, this sense of immense super-consciousness. These women, these creators of life, these mothers of Earth, were infusing the ground, the water, the air, and the heavens with their deep vibrational energies. Their natural healing powers were changing the fertility of their lands, the safety of their water, the purity of their air, and the power of their food. They were carving out a future of wellness, peace, happiness, and love over every inch of this planet. Around them, men were joyous as they used their amazing physical strength and lifetimes of wisdom to propel and maintain this new age in which the women and children were happy and well. Together, they became one. As one source of cosmic energy, they were changing the world. Love shone bright. Bliss descended over all. There was contentment.


( Continued... )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Dr. Vie.  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.


COMING TO A BOOK STORE NEAR YOU!

Read more:  http://drvie.com/tamingthefemaleimpostorsummary


Meet the Author

Born in South Africa, with roots in India,  Dr. Sherine Vie, a former Swiss-based medical device scientist changed her career to natural health after losing her father to heart disease and helping her mother recover from breast cancer. Facing heart-breaking challenges while living solo in six countries, in 2004 Dr. Vie Research pioneered Dr. Vie SuperFoods™ in the North Americas, & since 2007 Dr. Vie SuperKids mentors children & recently, Dr. Vie Academy with Dr. Vie Radio helps all ages globally. Dr. Vie is focused on restoring the link between humanity, nature and the source of all life. Dr. Vie is a mountain-lover and has trekked many ranges including the Himalayas.


Damon & Octavia by Mz. Robinson

Damon & Octavia
Part 7 of The Love, Lies & Lust Series
by Mz. Robinson

Damon and Octavia have been through more than most couples could ever imagine, and managed to survive it all. From love to lies to lust and even murder, they’ve seen it all. Now the only thing the two of them want is to raise their children in peace and love each other to the fullest. There’s just one problem…Damon has one last secret and this secret refuses to die.

When Octavia forges an unlikely friendship with the woman on the other side of Damon’s deception, things get hot and heavy in more ways than one. Soon, Damon is faced with the dilemma of confessing his transgression and losing the woman he loves.

When everything is put on the table and all lies are exposed, will Damon and Octavia’s marriage survive or will everything the two of them have fought so hard to maintain come crashing down, along with their love?


55 Reader Reviews - 5 Stars!
Purchase the book today:  http://goo.gl/7TJGjf
http://www.amazon.com/Damon-Octavia-Street-Chronicles-Presents-ebook/dp/B00JWF0ZN6


Meet the Author
Mz. Robinson
, born in Huntsville, Alabama is a licensed Realtor and the author of the tantilizing Love, Lies, and Lust Series. Mz. Robinson is an avid reader and advocate for literacy. Although, she began writing as a child, it was not until much later in life that she began to pen short stories. After falling in love with the characters she created, she turned one of her short stories into her debut novel: What We Won't Do For Love. After completing her first manuscript, Mz. Robinson took a break from writing to pursue other career opportunities. Five years later deciding to pursue her passion, she secured a home with G Street Chronicles. Today Mz. Robinson has ten published novels. When she's not writing Mz. Robinson enjoys reading and shopping. She is currently working on her next title and other projects.

BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
This is book 7 of the Love, Lies and Lust series. I wanted to tie all the books together and answer any questions my readers may have before ending the series.

BPM:  Does your upbringing, prior relationships or life experiences inspire your writing?
Yes, I use my personal experiences, the lessons I was taught as a child and the errors I’ve made as an adult in each character I write. So, there is a little piece of me in every book.

BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?
Some of my books come from my vivid imagination, others come from the things that I’ve done. My books are character driven. I want my readers to know, love and hate the characters in my books. I want them to feel like they’re walking in their shoes, experiencing all their emotions and by doing so I think it further enhances their reading experience.

BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My current work is Damon and Octavia: The Final Lie. This book concludes the Love, Lies and Lust series and exposes all the lies and secrets told throughout the series. I consider it to be contemporary fiction and it’s available in all digital formats. It is also coming in paperback soon.

BPM:   Give us some insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
My main characters are Damon and Octavia. Damon is special because he’s what I consider a “Bad Boy in a designer suit”. He’s the kind of man that can attend the opera or feel at home at a Hip Hop concert. He’s the perfect “Book Boyfriend”. He’s a professional and a family man. He loves Octavia to the point that he’s willing to do anything to maintain the sanctity in their marriage, including committing murder. Octavia is special because she was once the queen of the phrase: “I don’t need a man”; until she met Damon and he knocked her off her feet and taught her the true meaning of love.  She’s strong and although she’s not perfect, she’s a great example of a dedicated wife and mother.

BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I discuss love, honesty, and forgiveness. I learned that being in love can be complicated and that two people who are truly dedicated to the survival of their relationship, can make things work even if one or both of them have done wrong.

BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
As a published author my definition of success is being able to reach and touch readers of all races and social classes. I don’t want to just entertain but it is my hope that someone will be inspired and motivated by me and my work. If I can help and touch others in some way then in my book, I’m successful.  I have several ambitions for my writing career but breaking into television and movies is definitely at the top of my list.

BPM:   What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book?
My expectations for this book are that it will leave my readers pleased with the ending of Damon and Octavia’s story. I hope and desire them to be satisfied with the entire series.  After reading this book, I would like my readers to please leave a review and tell a friend.

BPM:   Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included? 
I would like to thank each and every person who has read this series and my other work. I would also like to thank you for granting me this interview. To my readers: I love you and I’m forever grateful for your support.

BPM:   How can readers discover more about you and your work?
You can find me on Facebook at Author-Mz Robinson, on Twitter @ AuthorMzR, and follow my blog at www.mzrobinsonwrites.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Mz.Robinson
Twitter:   https://twitter.com/AuthorMzR



Troublemaker by Trice Hickman


Every joy has its challenges. . .

After twenty years, childhood best friends Alexandria Thornton and PJ Brightwood have reunited--and fallen in love. Alex's artistic nature as a spoken word artist, and PJ's success as a talented surgeon promise a bright future. But their happiness brings unexpected complications for those they care about most. . .

A devoted wife, loving mother, and successful businesswoman, Victoria Thornton is a pillar of her suburban Atlanta community. But when her daughter, Alexandria, becomes engaged to the son of Victoria's former lover, her past mistake threatens her orderly life. As the impending marriage reunites both families, it reignites old feelings that test all of their relationships--and all of their boundaries. . .


Praise for the Unexpected Love Series


"Trice Hickman is an amazing writer and storyteller!" –Kimberla Lawson Roby

"Looking for Trouble is a fantastic saga about family, friendship, love, status and destiny." –RT Book Reviews

"A humorous and entertaining novel." –Urban Reviews on Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies

"Hickman hits all the high notes in this charming modern romance where love and loyalty trump race." –Publishers Weekly (starred review) on Unexpected Interruptions


Read an Excerpt from Troublemaker by Trice Hickman

CHAPTER 1

Allene


"You can never go wrong doin' right" Allene Small whispered to herself as she thought about the events that were about to unfold. She couldn't count the number of times she'd repeated those words during the nine decades she'd lived on earth, or in the six that she'd spent as a spirit waiting to reemerge into the world she'd once known.

Allene had enjoyed a rich, full life in her day. She'd experienced ups and downs, joys and heartbreak, and eventually, the calm peace that living ninety-eight years had brought her. She'd been widowed at a young age, outliving her beloved husband and eventually all her siblings and her children, as well as some nieces and nephews. She'd witnessed fiery crosses burning in the night, emblazoned with hatred and fear. She'd endured oppression before joining activists who fought for justice, civil rights, and social change. She'd watched one decade roll into the next as presidents and heads of state came and went, by consequence of elections or death. And she'd seen men ride in horses and buggies, fly planes in the sky, drive motorized vehicles along busy streets, and then miraculously walk on the moon.

Allene felt grateful and blessed to have lived long enough to experience things that many had not. She was also thankful that for as long as she could remember, she'd known an invaluable truth most couldn't fathom—that there was life after life. The peace she'd found in that knowledge had comforted her during times of trouble.

Now as she sat in her trusty old rocking chair, surveying the colorful flowers that graced the large wrap-around porch where she'd been sitting all morning, her heart held excitement and caution about what she knew lay ahead. She took a deep breath and inhaled the sweet fragrance of the rose, azalea, and magnolia bushes flanking the front of the house. "This old place sure 'nuff has stood the test of time," she said with a smile. "Isaiah and Henrietta would be right proud, God rest their souls."

Allene loved being back in Nedine, South Carolina, the small town where she'd lived out the best parts of her days. She looked out as far as her eyes could see, noting that while some things had changed, so many had remained steadfastly the same. The large, white placard displaying THE SMALL PROPERTY in black calligraphy still towered at the edge of the road a few hundred feet away, announcing to visitors that they had reached the grounds of the grand residence that her son, Isaiah Small, had built from the ground up.

At the time, Isaiah's had been one of the largest homes in Nedine as well as the two surrounding counties, and today it proudly continued to hold that distinction. This was a huge feat for a black man, then and now. After Isaiah died, Allene had moved from her tiny house a few miles up the road, and settled into the quiet comfort of living with Isaiah's devoted widow, Henrietta, whom Allene had loved as her own daughter.

After Henrietta passed away, John, Isaiah's and Henrietta's son, cared for the house with great love and attention. Even though John had moved away to Raleigh, North Carolina, to start a banking empire and carry on in his father's successful footsteps, he'd made sure to preserve the family homestead where he'd been born and had many fond memories of growing up. Several times a year, John, along with his wife, Elizabeth, and their daughter, Victoria, would return to Nedine to make sure the house was well maintained and that any necessary repairs were made.

once John's age and declining health prevented him from making trips to his beloved hometown, he'd hired a property management company to oversee the upkeep. After his death, his daughter, Victoria, had picked up the torch and seen to it that her father's birthplace was kept in good order. Allene was proud that her son's legacy was still intact, along with much of the land, rental properties, and other real estate holdings that had been passed down from one generation to the next.

"They're all gonna be here soon. Even the ones who ain't supposed to come," Allene said with reserve. "But then again, I reckon that ain't such a bad thing, 'cause nothin' happens by mistake. There's a plan for everything, we just gotta play it out to the end."

Allene nodded to herself as she looked up into the gray, stormy sky. It had been raining nonstop since early this morning. Heavy at times and light at others. Allene felt happy every time she heard the pitter-patter sound and the fresh smell that God's liquid glory created in its wake. She remembered back to the days she'd spent in her tiny home, and how she'd loved to listen to the rain dance atop her roof and beat against her windows. The natural rhythm had been soothing, and always made her feel a sense of peace—as if whatever had been wrong could be made right by the water that came and washed things away.

Allene wished so badly that the rain could clear out the troubles awaiting her family. Having the gift of prophecy, she was able to see some of the challenges that were on the horizon, and the struggles her loved ones were surely going to face. She wanted to intervene by warning them of what was coming, and tell them what they needed to do in order to avoid the problems heading their way. But age, wisdom, and experience had taught her that some things couldn't be interfered with, or manipulated. Only time, patience, and living through the situation could rectify whatever was wrong.

This was why Allene knew that choosing to do the right thing would never lead her down the wrong path. She'd been a witness to situations that had borne out that evidence time and time again, and she knew without a doubt that bad intentions could easily lead to devastating consequences. Conversely, she also knew that if one had good intentions and did what was fair and just, regardless of the circumstances, things would eventually unfold into a favorable outcome.

Allene knew that some of her family members were carrying heavy burdens, and to her disappointment, one in particular was plotting a hidden agenda, heading in the wrong direction by ignoring what was right. "Lord, help me guide Alexandria so she can help our family," she whispered aloud, looking up into the sky. "I waited a mighty long time to come back, and now, I'm ready. I just hope they're ready, too."

It had been nearly a year since Allene had first made her spirit form known to anyone in the land of the living. She'd reached out to Alexandria, her great-great-granddaughter, because she'd known it was time to make contact. Alexandria was a special young woman, who, like Allene, and Allene's great-grandmother before her, possessed the gift of prophecy.

The gift of prophecy was a precious ability that had been passed down through the generations, only by way of the female members of their family, dating back to the Akan people of Ghana, West Africa. The gift was a sacred and valued treasure that people both revered and feared within Allene's family, as well as the outside community.

During Allene's lifetime, her gift had allowed her to foretell events in advance of them happening. She could discern good from bad in the blink of an eye. She could sense when danger was approaching or when peace would prevail. She knew people's thoughts without ever having to engage them in conversation. And she could accurately declare good fortune or disappointing loss for those seeking her advice on any given situation.

Now as a spirit in the land of flesh and blood, she possessed those same abilities along with the added benefit of being able to exist between two worlds. Allene walked within the supernatural realm, able to communicate with others who shared the gift, like her great-grandmother, Susan. Even though she was able to see family and friends who'd passed on, she couldn't communicate with them unless they possessed the gift of prophecy. The living world was much the same way, only there, things were more complicated because life was still happening, unfolding in real time, which always presented challenges.

After years of patiently watching and waiting, Allene was glad when the time finally came that she could return to the world she'd once known. She was there to help Alexandria, who had struggled with her abilities for most of her life, but had now come to terms with the extraordinary gift she'd inherited. Just as Susan Jessup had been Allene's guide on her life's journey, it was now Allene's turn to do the same for Alexandria.

Allene continued to watch the sky and listen to the rain fall as she thought about what was going to happen two weeks from now. She could see the blessings, as well as the trouble that was going to ensue once everyone gathered under one roof. Tempers would flare and hearts would be hurt by deception. Long-held secrets were going to be revealed, weaknesses would be exposed, and a devious plot to steal and control was going to be uncovered. Allene could also see that there would be heated moments and tension between family members and friends.

"Sometimes people just got to go through things in order to make a change," Allene said to herself.

She knew that hearts, minds, and loyalties would be tested when her family came together for a grand celebration two weeks from now, and unfortunately, someone was going to meet their demise before the weekend came to an end.

"I'll see you soon, baby girl," Allene whispered into the air, sending words of love and comfort to Alexandria. "You just hang in there and know that everything's gonna be all right."


CHAPTER 2

Alexandria


Alexandria smiled as she stretched her long, shapely legs across PJ's buttery-soft leather sofa. "Now that I've finished cooking, it's time to relax" she said aloud. She ran her fingers through the mass of thick curls atop her head and let out a deep breath of relief, glad she was finally able to relax after her long day. She'd been busy from the moment she'd stepped out the door this morning with a coffee mug in one hand and a toasted bagel in the other. Her life had been more hectic in the last year than she could ever remember. So much was changing so fast, but with that change she felt the hope and excitement of new possibilities that lay ahead.

She breathed a sigh of relief when she thought about the fact that this Friday would be her last day of work at a job she'd dreaded since the day she'd started. She was an attorney, on the fast track, employed with the prestigious downtown Atlanta law firm of Johnson, Taylor, and Associates. Alexandria had worked there since she'd interned with them while still in law school. Now, six years later, she was ready to step out of what she'd been academically trained to do, and take hold of the direction in which her heart had always led her, which was to pursue her passion as a writer and spoken-word artist.

Alexandria thought about her promising future as she lay on her back and flipped through one of her many bridal magazines. Even though her wedding day was just one month away, and all the major details had been planned to a tee, she still couldn't resist looking at pictures of happy couples, replete with bountiful flowers and their wedding parties in tow, all overflowing with nuptial bliss.

Alexandria smiled every time she thought about how happy she was and how much her life had significantly changed since this time last year. It seemed as though it were just yesterday that she'd broken up with her old boyfriend, Peter, and in less than twenty-four hours, fate, along with her grandma Allene's sage advice, had led her down a completely different path to peace, understanding, and true love. Now she was engaged to PJ, her childhood best friend who'd walked into her life and changed her world.

She could still remember her grandma Allene's words. Speak what's in your heart. Say what it is that you desire, and watch it walk into your life.

Alexandria had heeded those words and still lived by them today. She knew that speaking what she wanted, and then trusting and believing with indomitable faith that her desires would be met in abundance, was the reason PJ was in her life. As she looked at the beautiful gowns of silk and tulle, she raised her hand in the air, as if in praise, and gave thanks for her blessings. "Amen," she said quietly.

She was thankful for this joyous time in her life, and she planned to savor every moment because she was all too aware of the trouble that was lying in wait on the other side. Gritty realities and unpleasant truths were about to surface, not just in her life, but in the lives of family and friends whom she loved. She knew the road ahead was paved with detours, rough patches, and a few hazard signs. But she also knew she'd get through them thanks to her faith, her grandma Allene, and the amazing gift of prophecy she now embraced.

"Thank you, Grandma Allene," Alexandria whispered. "I love you for showing me the way."

As soon as her words floated into the air, Alexandria knew that her grandma Allene's spirit had entered the room. Whenever she felt a warm breeze, a gentle, unexplainable tug at her arm, or smelled the unmistakably sweet scent of magnolias—which had just wafted by her nose—she knew it was her great-great-grandmother communicating with her.

Alexandria inhaled the fragrant, uniquely Southern scent that always made her feel safe and at ease. That sense of comfort and security was very different from the turmoil and strife she'd experienced in the past whenever she thought about her gift.

Communicating with spirits and having premonitions were abilities that had burdened Alexandria since she was five years old. She'd always felt different and out of place, constantly trying to navigate where she stood in a world filled with uncertainty. Her lack of grounding and understanding of her gift had made her afraid of the supernatural powers she possessed. But all that had changed last summer when Allene had contacted her for the first time.

Initially, Alexandria had been leery, and she hadn't want any part of the mysteriously frightening world that had been haunting her since she was five years old. Many times she could remember waking up in the middle of the night, drenched in sweat and covered with fear, terrified of the voices that belonged to spirits from another world that she couldn't see or touch.

She also recognized that the ability to know what was going to happen in a given situation before it took place wasn't always a good thing, and it had quickly become a heavy weight on her shoulders. She'd worried about things that kids her age didn't have to deal with. She'd witnessed accidents, death, and destruction, and it had made her fearful of doing something as normal as dreaming at night because of what she might see. She'd often stood helpless with her knowledge, not knowing what to do or in whom to confide, so she'd learned how to ignore her gift and block out visions whenever they threatened her peace of mind.

But once her grandma Allene had come into her life and shown her the beauty of her gift, along with the strength and infinite possibilities it held, a new world had opened up to her for the first time.

She'd been hoping that her grandma Allene would soon make contact with her again. She missed hearing the old woman's comforting voice and the soothing, down-home Southern accent it carried. Allene hadn't communicated with her in nearly three months, which had initially alarmed Alexandria. But then she remembered Allene's promise—that she'd always be there to guide and protect her. Alexandria knew she'd have to wait patiently and trust in Allene's words, which were solid and rooted in love.

The one thing that Alexandria longed for more than anything was to talk with Allene face-to-face, instead of speaking in whispered tones through visions that always seemed to end much too quickly. During one of their talks, Alexandria had asked Allene to appear to her in the flesh.

"Grandma Allene, I want to see you. Can you come visit me?" she'd asked.


( Continued... )

 Excerpted from Troublemaker by Trice Hickman.  © 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Trice Hickman.  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
Trice Hickman
is a self-proclaimed Southern girl, and award-winning, bestselling author. Trice’s love of reading and the power she recognized in the written word inspired her to become a writer. After receiving rejection letters from every agent and publisher she submitted her work to, Trice was determined to bring her stories to life. She self-published her first three novels to great success, and shortly thereafter, landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published. When she’s not busy writing and reading, Trice enjoys cooking, traveling, decorating, and meeting good people. Learn more about Trice at www.tricehickman.com.

Download Troublemaker (An Unexpected Love Novel)
by Trice Hickman

[Kindle Edition]
Link: http://amzn.com/B00IKOTMC0

Purchase Troublemaker (An Unexpected Love Novel)
by Trice Hickman

Link:  http://amzn.com/0758287267


Meet the Author
Trice Hickman
is a self-proclaimed Southern girl, and award-winning, bestselling author. Trice’s love of reading and the power she recognized in the written word inspired her to become a writer. After receiving rejection letters from every agent and publisher she submitted her work to, Trice was determined to bring her stories to life. She self-published her first three novels to great success, and shortly thereafter, landed a multi-book deal with Kensington (Dafina Books) where she is currently published. When she’s not busy writing and reading, Trice enjoys cooking, traveling, decorating, and meeting good people. Learn more about Trice at www.tricehickman.com.

Author website: www.tricehickman.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tricehickman
FB:  http://www.facebook.com/tricehickman


Unexpected Love Novel Series - More Books by Trice Hickman

* Looking for Trouble
* Unexpected Interruptions
* Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies
* Playing the Hand You're Dealt


Books by Trice Hickman
http://www.amazon.com/Trice-Hickman/e/B002N44944
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/trice-hickman/2106303




Intimate Conversation with Necole Ryse


Necole Ryse
graduated from Towson University with Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communications. Bored with life as an adult, Necole decided to follow her dreams to write fiction and she hasn’t looked back. She joined the Winslet Press family to release her first novel, THE LEGACY. She enjoys chocolate covered pretzels, Criminal Minds marathons, and all things Harry Potter.

BPM: What motivated you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?
I had no choice. I’ve always been a writer and when I graduated college I felt like it wasn’t a smart career choice to venture into, so I put my dreams on hold while I worked a bunch of jobs I had no passion in. Finally, after a terrible day at work I decided to quit. I gave myself one year to make my dreams come true or I was going back to work. So, I sat down and started writing. Right now, I don’t have children, a husband or a mortgage, so it seemed like the perfect time to take a leap of faith.

BPM: Does your upbringing or life experiences inspire your writing?

Sometimes, yes. People always say write what you know. Some of my scenes in the books are from actual conversations or experiences I had, but most come from my imagination.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  
I wish I could tell you where my book ideas come from. They just happen. I will overhear something in a conversation or see someone interesting and start making a story about them. I can find inspiration anywhere. My books are both plot and character driven. Good books have both excellent plots and evolving characters and I focus on developing both at the same time.

BPM: Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
My first novel, The Legacy, is a part of a trilogy called The Birthright Trilogy. It’s a “new adult fiction” book. Since the characters are in college, it isn’t really considered young adult fiction, but since new adult is such a new genre, most people classify it as young adult fiction. As of right now, the book is available on Kindle.

BPM: Give us an insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special?
The Legacy centers around 4 girls, Raevyn, Regina, Corrine and Andrea. Raevyn is the narrator or the story and she is one tough chick. Her father drove her cross country to his alma mater, Benjamin Wallace Fitzgerald University, the nation’s first African American Ivy League school, because she got into some trouble with the law. She had to blend in at the school because she couldn’t come back home. The problem is, Raevyn is from a low-income family, and therefore it’s hard to blend in with the posh crowd at the Black Ivy League. Her roommate, Regina Fitzgerald, yes you read that right, Fitzgerald, is the heiress to the Fitzgerald name. Her great-great-grandfather founded the school.

Regina’s friends are Andrea and Corrine. Regina is special because she, like most people, has been hurt. Just because she is the “it” girl at school doesn’t mean her own personal life isn’t falling apart. Because of her internal turmoil she comes off as a bitch to most people. But, once her layers are peeled back, over the course of the trilogy, she reveals herself. Andrea is an Ice Queen. She is the friend who tells it like it is and doesn’t care what you think.

She is my favorite character of all. She holds no cut cards and will provide the readers with a laugh or two throughout the course of the novel. Corrine is the friendly one. She becomes really close to Raevyn and the two begin to bond in places that Regina and Andrea can’t reach. She is sweet as sugar, but like most people at the Black Ivy League, she harbors a lot of secrets.

BPM: What topics are primarily discussed? Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? 
In the book, topics range from relationships to love, school work and lots and lots of fashion! From this book I learned that I can’t control my characters. Once I put them on the page they come to life and I have to go with the flow after that.

BPM:  What are your ambitions for your writing career?

My ultimate goal is reaching the NYT Best Seller list before 30. Success for me means touching someone’s life. If a reader says to me, “your book inspired me” or “your story made me feel like I could do anything” I have done my due diligence as a writer. Success is touching someone’s life. I want a Black girl to read my book and see herself. That’s the meaning of success

BPM: What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book?

My goal for this book is to create a conversation! I want more writers to write for African Americans in higher education. After this book I want readers to tweet me, Facebook me and beg for the next one!

BPM: Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included? How can readers discover more about you and your work?

I can be reached a number of ways: Facebook: www.facebook.com/necoleryse; Twitter and IG: @necoleryse. I would love to hear from you! I always answer emails, too. necole.ryse@gmail.com

Website: www.necoleryse.com
Twitter and IG: @necoleryse
Facebook: www.facebook.com/necoleryse





Intimate Conversation with Dwan Abrams


Dwan Abrams was born in Florida. She has lived in Europe and throughout the United States.

After graduating from high school with honors, she served four honorable years in the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force she was recognized as Airman of the Month twice and Personnel Specialist of the Quarter. Due to her outstanding leadership skills, she was promoted early to the rank of Senior Airman.

Dwan is a graduate of the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Prior to becoming a full-time writer, Dwan worked as a manager for a Fortune 100 company. She has experience in sales, customer service, and marketing.

A true leader in the community, Dwan was a mentor at Shamrock Middle School. She has participated in Career Day and Job Shadowing Day at local Atlanta middle and high schools. As a supporter of Johnnie's House "Feed the Hungry" campaign, she appeared in a Public Service Announcement that aired on WATC TV 57 in Atlanta. Dwan has volunteered for United Way campaigns, Adopt-a-Family, and Santa's Helping Hands.

As a freelance editor, Dwan has edited numerous manuscripts for aspiring and established authors. Her services include: copy editing, substantive editing, ghostwriting, and manuscript critiques and evaluations.

Dwan has been featured in Booking Matters and Awareness magazines. She's been interviewed on Atlanta Live, which aired on WATC TV 57. Due to her hard work and determination, Dwan has been inducted into the 2006 and 2010 "Who's Who" in Black Atlanta.  She's the former President of Faith Based Fiction Writers of Atlanta.

She's the best-selling author of When the Fairytale Ends (Book #2 in the Married Series), My Mother's Child (the anticipated sequel to Divorcing the Devil), Married Strangers, Divorcing the Devil (nominated for the 2008 African American Literary Awards Show), Only True Love Waits (winner of the 2007 Pen of the Writer POWER Award for Best Fiction), The Scream Within, and Favor (a short story appearing in The Midnight Clear: Stories of Love, Hope and Inspiration anthology).

Her seventh novel, For the Sake of Love, was released by Kensington in June 2014.  She currently resides in a suburb of Atlanta, Georgia with her family.



BPM:   Introduce us to your current work. What genre do you consider your book? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?

My latest book, For the Sake of Love, is a love triangle. Bria finds herself having to choose between the man she loves and the man trying to woo her with his money. I consider For the Sake of Love to be an inspirational romance, and yes, it is available in both Nook and Kindle.  


BPM:  What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I had first written For the Sake of Love as a novella. For years I wanted to turn it into a full length novel but didn't know what direction I wanted to take it. Finally, I found the motivation and inspiration to craft the story.


BPM:  Does your life experiences inspire your writing?
Sometimes. It really depends on the character. I have the most fun with characters inspired by people I know.


BPM:  Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot driven or character driven?  Why?
My book ideas come from all over the place. There's no one set thing. In the past, I have spoken to people with interesting professions and made mental notes to give my characters those professions. Something as simple as that can spark the idea for a new book.

I would definitely say that my books are character driven. My characters determine the situation and direction of the story. I don't start out with an entire premise and place the characters in the scenes.


BPM:   Give us some insight into your main characters. What makes each one so special? 

Bria is special because she's growing as a person. She's discovering new things about herself. Bria's best friend, Nya, is a wild card. She's a ride or die chick.

Nya's husband, Chance, is somewhat of a jokester. What makes him so special is that I had a reader once tell me that she loved Chance for Bria. I had never even considered that.

Spade wants so badly to be Bria's hero that he sometimes comes off as a zero. Readers will have to figure out whether Kerryngton is glitter or gold.


BPM:   What topics are primarily discussed?  Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
The different love languages are primarily discussed in For the Sake of Love. I did learn that I probably would not have made the same choice as Bria.


BPM:   Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
I didn't have to conduct an extensive amount of research for this book. Everyone involved I already knew. Nonetheless, the feedback on the men and who Bria should end up with was priceless.


BPM:   What defines success for you, as a published author? What are your ambitions for your writing career?
Success for me means doing what God has purposed for me to do. As long as I walk in my calling, I'm a success. I don't measure success in monetary standards. Every time my publisher agrees to publish one of my books, I feel a sense of accomplishment. Whenever I receive an email from a reader telling me he or she enjoyed my book, I feel honored.

As for my ambitions, I have quite a few. I believe that as long as I keep my character intact, my gifts will make room for me. I don't put myself into a box.


BPM:   What are your expectations for this book? What would you like for readers to do after reading this book? 
I don't believe in putting expectations on my work. I simply write the stories I feel compelled to write to the best of my abilities. As long as I feel good about my work once I'm done, I'm happy. I pray about it and release it.
I would like for my readers to post their favorable reviews on Amazon or bn.com. I also like to hear from my readers. Those emails make my day. And of course, I want my readers to tell ten more readers to go out and buy the book.


BPM:   Did you ever ask yourself, "Why am I doing this? Should I change course and maybe try to get some of the things on that list?"

No, I have never wondered if writing was the right thing for me. When I was in corporate America, that was a different story. I often thought that. I actually wrote my first two books while working in corporate America. My dream was to leave my job and write full-time. Eight years ago I was blessed to do just that. I've been doing what I love ever since. Currently, I teach business classes at a college twice a week. I enjoy doing that because it doesn't require a lot of my time and doesn't interfere with my writing.


BPM:   Do you feel as if you are a role model for other authors?
I don't look at myself that way. I strive to be the best person that I can be, and if that inspires other people, then I'm thankful. 

BPM:   What projects are you working on at the present?
I'm always working on projects. LOL! I'll reveal them as they start coming to pass.

BPM:   How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Readers can visit my web site www.dwanabrams.com. They can also connect with me on social networking sites.


Twitter: https://twitter.com/dwanabrams 
FB:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dwan-Abrams/102602141758


Purchase For the Sake of Love by Dwan Abrams
http://www.amazon.com/Sake-Love-Urban-Books/dp/1601627440


It's Complicated by Portia Cosby


On BAN Radio with Ella Curry
Sept. 10, 2014  at 8:30 pm EST
Join us on air:   646.200.0402




"Portia Cosby has created a world of compelling characters who navigate a byzantine maze of love, secrets, lies and a whole lot of bad decisions in a page turner that will keep you up all night...just like it did me!"
---Lolita Files, Author of Child of God and sex.lies.murder.fame


Venni's cryptic past is filled with secrets. Now that the beautiful executive is trying to settle down with the man of her dreams, she decides to come clean. She admits to a past filled with lies, heartbreak and scandal. But she soon learns that some secrets are best left buried.  Once the skeletons are out, all hell breaks loose.

In the midst of the drama, Venni's long-time ally becomes her greatest adversary and her most hated adversary surprisingly becomes her ally. When it's all said and done, egos and feelings are tattered and family lives are severed. Will Venni regret coming clean?

It's Complicated is a page-turner that reaffirms we all have a backstory and perfection on the surface isn't always what it seems.


It’s Complicated by Portia A. Cosby
Contemporary Fiction/Women’s Fiction
Target Audience: Women ages 22-50
Subject Matter: Love, lies, secrets, deception, backstory, healing
 Purchase: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1625175043


Meet the Author

Portia A. Cosb
y is a fresh voice in contemporary fiction. Known for her unmistakable wit and relatable characters, she is the author of Too Little, Too Late, Lesson Learned: It Is What It Is, and The Disgruntled Wives Club. The novelist/ poet/screenwriter is the owner of DISTINCT Publishing and holds a spot on Terry McMillan’s Writers Worth Reading list. An Indianapolis native, Portia currently divides her time between the greater Pittsburgh and Atlanta areas with her daughter. She is an alumna of Indiana University and Full Sail University, and is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.   Website: www.portiacosby.com

Intimate Conversation with Stacey Covington-Lee


BPM: How did you get to be where you are in your life today? Who and what motivated you?
Stacey: I've gotten to be where I am through faith, hard work and a strong support system. I've always had aspirations of being an author, but it was my faith in God and my abilities that pushed me to realize this dream. I'm so fortunate to have an amazing support system in my family and friends. Their encouragement, especially that of my son and dear friend, Cassandra Smith, is all the motivation I need to continue this literary journey.

BPM: Who does your body of literary work speak to? Do you consider authors as role models?
Stacey: My work primarily speaks to women in the age range of twenty to sixty-five. My topics of love, friendship, betrayal, and overcoming are subjects that every woman can relate to on one level or another. As far as authors being role models, I would have to say no. For me, authors are entertainers with the unique ability to shine a light of awareness on very relevant social issues.  
 
BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book? Why now?

Stacey: I was inspired to write this book by the many stories we hear every day about women being victimized. Whether it is the local news or celebrity news, domestic violence seems to always find its way to the front page. I felt compelled to write this now because I wanted someone to find strength in this fictional story. It's entertainment with a purpose.

BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Stacey: I most enjoyed writing about the courage that the most unexpected characters seem to find and draw upon at what might look like their weakest moments.

BPM: Where do your book ideas come from? Are your books plot-driven or character-driven? Why?
Stacey: My ideas come from observation and sometimes discussions. Simply watching people, how they interact with one another, and the things they say can lead to the most interesting book ideas. Thus far, my books have all been plot-driven. I know how I want the stories to play out, but I'm often surprised at which characters step up and show strength, and which ones crumble under pressure.

BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work? Is this book available in digital forms like Nook and Kindle?
Stacey: Hate The Way He Loves Me follows the lives of the Shaw women. Sisters Zoe and Pam, and their mother, Martha. These women suffered unspeakable abuse at the hands of Martha's husband, Otis Shaw. That is until Zoe steps up and seemingly frees them from his clutches. The ladies now have an opportunity to start over in a new city with great opportunities and even the possibility for true love. But Zoe soon discovers that instead of finding love, she has stumbled into another abusive situation. Now it will take the strength and courage of all the Shaw women to free Zoe from her abuser and break the chains of their past. Hate The Way He Loves Me is available in all digital forms including Kindle and Nook.

BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special?

Stacey: The main characters in Hate The Way He Loves Me are Zoe and Pam Shaw, and Ramon Martinez. Zoe has always been seen as the strong one. She's the one that everyone looked to for courage and direction. Pam on the other hand has always been the weak, feeble one. But as this story plays out, we see their rolls slowly shifting. At first glance, Ramon appears to be a man of good character. But he has secrets of his own, ghosts from his past that negatively influence every moment of his life.
 
BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book? If so, discuss them.

Stacey: The under-represented group in this book would be the males that grow up in abusive homes. When it comes to abuse, women always seem to be the focus, the victims. What's rarely discussed are the effects that observing abuse on a continuous basis has on our boys.. Boys that grow up in abusive homes are far more likely to be abusers in their adult life.

BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation, education. spiritual practice or journey?
Stacey: What most people don't know about me is that at one time I too was the victim of domestic violence. And I thank God every day for giving me the means and courage to remove myself from that situation.

BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book? Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
Stacey: What I learned in writing this book is that I was one of the lucky ones. I got out of my situation and never really worried about retaliation. However, it is when they try to leave their abuser that most domestic violence victims face the greatest danger. I was allowed to join an online domestic violence support group as part of my research. Many of the stories that I heard were horrific and I thank God that those ladies were able to survive and escape their abusers.
 
BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?

Stacey: My goal, as always, is to entertain. Through the process of entertaining, I wanted to shine a light on a very real social issue. I think that I accomplished both goals with this book. It is a captivating story that makes the reader view domestic violence a little differently.

BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
Stacey: I'm currently working on my fifth novel, Sisterly Love, and seriously considering revisiting The Knife In My Back series. Part three maybe?  

BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Stacey: Please visit me on my website: http://www.staceycovingtonlee.com, where you can read excerpts from all of my novels, see what's next for me, as well as upcoming events.   
 
 
Stacey Covington-Lee, Author

Bitter Taste Of Love
The Knife In My Back series
www.staceycovingtonlee.com


Hate The Way He Loves Me by Stacey Covington-Lee

Hate The Way He Loves Me
by Stacey Covington-Lee


Love can be beautiful, but what happens when it becomes hostile? In this electrifying drama, Stacey Covington-Lee brings to light the horrors of domestic violence and the strength it takes to escape it.
 


Zoe Shaw’s childhood was anything but perfect. She, her sister, Pam, and their mother, Martha, were terrorized by Otis Shaw. The man that vowed to love and protect them had become a drunken, abusive animal that took pleasure in their suffering. But when he begins to look at Zoe with lover’s eyes, she finds herself taking drastic measures to ensure that he’ll never hurt any of the Shaw women again, or so she thinks. When word gets out that Otis may be resurfacing, Zoe, being the strongest of the trio, decides that it’s time for them to move away and start anew.

Desmond Page, Zoe’s best friend, moved away a long time ago. Having had a difficult childhood of his own, he and Zoe found love and acceptance with one another and did their best to shield each other from harm. Now that she’s looking to relocate, he suggests that she join him down south.

Their new home offered everything the Shaw women ever wanted; peace, security, opportunity and even the possibility for love. When Ramon Martinez introduced himself to Zoe, the attraction was undeniable. And despite her better judgment, she allowed herself to fall for the uncommonly handsome business owner.  What she didn’t realize was that he was also the product of an abusive home, but unlike her, he chose to follow the example set by his father. His jealousy and insecurity led him to deliver painful consequences for what he deemed inexcusable behavior. But he has clearly underestimated Zoe and the question now is which one of them will survive this battered love? 


Chapter Excerpt:  Hate The Way He Loves Me



It had been a crazy day and the customers were driving Zoe insane. Everything and everyone seemed to be tap dancing on her nerves. She’d even found herself snapping at April, something she’d immediately regretted. Her apology was an offer to buy lunch and thankfully, April accepted.

“So tell me, Zoe, what has you so upset today? You’re not acting at all like your normal self. I’ve never seen you so on edge,” April declared as she took a big bite of her cheese-burger.

“Let’s just say that I had a moment with Ramon this weekend and it left a really bad taste in my mouth. I swear I’ve been annoyed ever since Saturday.”   

“Okay, so what was the moment? I mean how bad could it have been?”

“Long story short, Desi and his partner had a bad fight Friday and Desi went home with me. He spent the night with me, slept in the bed with me and Ramon apparently had a huge problem with it. Had the nerve to try and make me promise that Desi would never sleep with me again. Can you believe that?”

April chewed slowly as she looked around the restaurant clearly avoiding eye contact with Zoe. But after a few seconds she could feel her friend’s eyes burning a hole in her, demanding a reply. “I’m sorry, Zoe, but that doesn’t sound like such an unreasonable request to me. No man wants to think of his woman sharing a bed with another man.”

“Oh come on April, we all know that Desi is gay. He has no interest in anything a woman has to offer. Especially me, I’m like a sister to him for goodness sake!”

“Girl, I’m going to need for you to calm down and lower your voice,” April instructed as she took note of the people in the small diner looking their way. “You asked me a question; you can’t get salty because you don’t like my answer. And I’m not the kind of friend that only tells you what you want to hear, I tell you how I truthfully feel. I understand that Desi is gay, but that doesn’t change the fact that he’s still a man and that is obviously threatening to Ramon.”  

“Clearly we view this differently. To me it seems as if he’s trying to control me. This is how it all starts, they convince you to give up something or someone important to you. Once you cave on one thing, they demand something else until everything and everyone you’ve ever cared about is cut out of your life and all that remains is them.” Zoe’s voice was shaky and tears danced on the rim of her eyes, threatening to fall down her cheeks.

April reached across the table and took Zoe’s hand in hers. “Honey, why are you so emotional about this and who are you referring to when you say ‘they’ and ‘them’?”

“I’m referring to men. They are all the same, they all want to control every aspect of their mate’s life and I can’t have that. I won’t allow any man to control my life,” Zoe sobbed.

“Zoe, don’t you think that you may be reading a little bit too much into his request? I mean I’ll be the first to admit that some men are controlling, but not all of them. There are so many good men out there and I’d hate for you to throw away one of those good men because of one request he made. Which, by the way, he probably only made because he’s feeling insecure in this new relationship.”    

“I don’t know April. My mother has spent her entire life either being controlled or dealing with the fall out of being controlled. I won’t be my mother; I refuse to live her life.”

“And I would never want you to live that life, but I do want you to be sure of Ramon’s intensions before throwing him away. Talk to him Zoe, and be clear with him just like you were with me. Give him the opportunity to either confirm your fears or show you that he has no desire to control you at all.”

(  Continued...  )

© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Stacey Covington-Lee.  Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.


Hate The Way He Loves Me by Stacey Covington-Lee

Genre: Contemporary Fiction
http://www.amazon.com/Stacey-Covington-Lee/e/B00IQFO0V6



Meet the Author
Having fallen in love with literature at an early age, it only made sense for Stacey Covington-Lee to seek a career that would allow her to combine her passion for writing and her Communications education from Savannah State. During her lengthy career in the insurance industry as an Instructional and PC Trainer, Stacey wrote and developed multiple training guides and manuals for both insurance companies and local government.

It was at the encouragement of a dear friend that Stacey wrote and released her first novel, The Knife In My Back. Continuing her exploration of love, friendship, and betrayal, she has since given us The Knife In My Back 2, Bitter Taste Of Love, and her much anticipated, Hate The Way He Loves Me.

Stacey is an Atlanta native and has found great enjoyment in visiting book clubs and speaking at various events throughout the Southeast region. She loves hearing from readers and invites everyone to visit her website, www.staceycovingtonlee.com, follow her on Twitter (@covingtonlee) as well as Facebook (www.facebook.com/staceycovington-lee) and IG (scovingtonlee).