Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Review: Tangled


Tangled
Tangled by Phoenix C. Brown

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This short story is a tangled book of suspense, lust and craziness. Sara is attracted to her boss, Kingston but both are a little afraid to move forward with that attraction since they have significant others in their lives. Well, one thing leads to other, and they find themselves in a situation that they had no idea was coming. The author did a phenomenal job of developing the two main characters in this interesting plot.




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Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Review: One Family's AIDS


One Family's AIDS
One Family's AIDS by J'son M. Lee

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Mr. Lee gives a thought-provoking awareness to two taboo subjects in the African-American community: HIV and homosexuality. The story takes you on the journey of a highly successful, educated young man named Gene McCoy who has been diagnosed with HIV. As Gene takes you through his thoughts and feelings of his diagnosis, you will also get family members' viewpoints.

As I read this short story, I cried. Gene is every homosexual and/or HIV/AIDS person in America. The grim reality of how we as a society deal with those who have been diagnosed with the disease along with homosexuality is an eye opener. No one should feel less than a person. Everyone needs love and support regardless if we agree with their lifestyle or not. I lost a family member to AIDS and I clearly remember how he was talked about at the funeral. People never ceases to amaze me with their ignorance. A person should not have to live in shame and fear.

I applaud Mr. Lee for bringing awareness to the African American community and society as a whole. Great job!



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Review: Resurrecting Eve


Resurrecting Eve
Resurrecting Eve by LaRedeaux

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



When I first start reading this e-short, I did not know what to expect. I have always supported this author but this was my first time reading a book from her in this genre. Well, low and behold, she scared the daylights out of me. Although she didn't give step by step descriptions of certain things, your mind took you there. At every page turn, I was waiting to see who Eve was going to terrorize. All I can say is, watch who you torment....you never know when they are seeking their revenge.



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Review: TRUTH OR DEATH


TRUTH OR DEATH
TRUTH OR DEATH by Fabiola Joseph

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Annabelle is a sexy young woman who knows what she wants and willing to do whatever it takes to make sure it is hers and hers alone. During a routine life check, Annabelle realizes her man, Jacob isn't who she thought he was. He has things going on in his life that she has no idea was going on. Jacob is living the life. To him, he has his cake and eating it too until Annabelle gets hold of the icing. When things hit the fan, secrets will be revealed. Lives are in jeopardy and the innocent are harmed. What does Annabelle find out about Jacob? Who really is Jacob? Will Jacob sacrifice his life for his loved ones?

Fabiola Joseph has done it again . Annabelle becomes the psycho mistress and you must one click to find out what happens next. Good character development and plot in this complete short story.




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Tuesday, October 22, 2013

COVER REVEAL: Living Separate Lives by Paulette Harper


 
Title: Living Separate Lives

Four Friends, One Secret and The Weekend That Changed Their Destiny

Author: Paulette Harper

Publisher: Thy Word Publishing

Genre: Christian Fiction, Novella

Hosted By: Write Now Literary Virtual Book Tour www.wnlbooktours.com

ISBN-13:  978-0-9899691-0-9

Releasing: Nov 5, 2013 e-book and paperback

 
 
 
 
 
Excerpt

“Stop preaching to me. I don’t want to hear it anymore. I’ve had enough of your self-righteousness.” The words continued to cut Jordan’s heart; words that she never heard before coming from the mouth of her husband, Eric. “You knew how I was before we got married.”  His tone deepened with every word.

                Standing in front of the sink, Jordan was frozen and motionless in the middle of the kitchen. She held the dish towel in one hand and a plate in the other. She turned and faced Eric, whose eyes were cold and hard.  The verbal blows kept coming.  Her mouth opened wide, but no words could be formed when he uttered the deadly words, “I want a divorce.”

 
 
About The Book

Candace Walker, Kaylan Smith, Jordan Tate, and Tiffany Thomas have their share of sorrows, but neither of them realizes how deep the sorrow goes.  What happens when they agree to meet for a weekend of relaxation in beautiful Napa County? Which one will leave the same or worse?

For Candace Walker, life has left her battered and bruised.  Kaylan Smith has struggled with prejudice from her in-laws. After fifteen years of marriage, bitterness is trying to raise its ugly head for Jordan Tate, whose husband wants to call it quits. And for Tiffany Thomas, dealing with rejection has never been one of her greatest feats.

Although they have been friends for years, they thought they knew each other well. But will a secret destroy their relationship and bring the sisterhood to a complete halt? Will they be able to forgive and allow God to mend that which might be torn?

 
 
 
Paulette Harper is an award-winning and best-selling author. She is the owner of Write Now Literary Virtual Book Tours and is passionate about helping authors succeed in publishing and marketing their books. Paulette has been writing and publishing books since 2008.  Paulette is the author of That Was Then, This is Now, Completely Whole and The Sanctuary. Her articles have appeared on-line and in print.

Social Media Links







https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18524878-living-separate-lives

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Review: State of Ecstasy


State of Ecstasy
State of Ecstasy by Ju Ephraime

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Daphne Cohen has had very few men in her life and they keep disappointing her including Michael, who she catches cheating on her. Deciding she needed to get away, Daphne leaves everything behind to go to the beautiful island of Martinique for a month. While there and relaxing at the beach early one morning, she sees a handsome and intriguing man, Wolfe LaCasse skinny dipping in the ocean. As the story progresses, you see Wolfe and Daphne have both been burnt by love and those past experiences have caused them to proceed with caution. The sex between the two will have you gasping and needing a partner as it leaves you breathless. As the time draws near for Daphne to return to America, she realizes she does love Wolfe but she doesn’t think she is ready to leave her life and career behind to live in Martinique with him. Wolfe on the other hand does not want a long distance relationship. Will the two survive? Who would be willing to give it all up to move to another country? Will either of them find their happily ever after?

The author does a phenomenal job of developing Daphne and Wolfe’s character. There are moments that you will love them and other times hate them for their stubbornness. This story is perfect for those who truly love romance novels with an extra edge of spice to them. The sex scenes are explicit and raw. The author also does a great job of bringing the readers in to the customs of the island in order to make a great storyline.




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Saturday, October 19, 2013

ENTER TO WIN A $5 AMAZON GIFT CARD



What is the highest price you would pay for an ebook?  Would you pay more for a veteran book than a newbie when considering whether or not to one click?

COMMENT FOR A CHANCE TO WIN $5 AMAZON GIFT CARD.  WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25TH AT 10AM EST

Friday, October 11, 2013

Review: The Pastor's Heart


The Pastor's Heart
The Pastor's Heart by Desiree Future

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Sinclair Madison was raised and aged out of the foster care system. Due to her experience, she decides to open up an agency that would assist those who aged out to help them get back on their feet and stay there. Being a workaholic and having no love life, when love shows up at her door, Sinclair wants the door to remain close. After her ex-boyfriend gave her an ultimatum, she decided she would rather put her time and energy into her business.

During an unlikely encounter, Pastor Kingston Carter and Sinclair cross paths. To the Pastor, it was love at first sight. To Sinclair, it was another man to get in her way. Pastor Carter could have any women he wants as he is handsome, successful and a Man of God but he sets on a pursuit to make Sinclair his first lady.

Through their trials and tribulations, love finally finds its way to both of them. Will Sinclair let her guard down to succumb to love? Will Pastor Carter finally win Sinclair over? Are they destined to be together or will they find someone else to help them to love? One click this amazing story to find out more.

Author Desiree Future does a great job of telling this Christian fiction story of love and triumph. Each of the characters were developed to the point you just wanted to jump in the book and grab both of them to make them get together. I have shed plenty of tears while reading this book because all of us, at one time or another, block our blessings that God have bestowed upon us whether it is with a mate, careers, or family.

Great job and I look forward to reading the sequel.



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Review: With This Ring: A Novel


With This Ring: A Novel
With This Ring: A Novel by Allison Hobbs

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Harlow, Nivea and Vangie, the divas from Put a Ring on It: A Novel (Zane Presents) are back and still dealing with issues.

Vangie thinks her man, Alphonso, is the one she will settle down with but he has no desire to settle down with any one woman. While attempting to snag Alphonso, she becomes involved in a battle between her son's father and his ghetto fabulous girlfriend. In the process, she loses sight of herself and her morals. Throughout this book, Vangie put friendships and relationships to the test as she battles her demons. Will Vangie be able to get Alphonso to finally put a ring on it? Will she come to grips with her reality?

Nivea tries to find comfort in the mighty dollar and plans on making sure her and her daughter are set for life financially no matter whose life and household she destroys. The paternity test threatens to damage her family ties so she finds someone else to pin on being the baby's father. Will the true father step up and take care of his baby? Will Nivea see that
money can buy material things but can not buy happiness?

To an outsider, Harlow and Drake has a picture perfect life and the only thing missing is a child. Drake loves his wife and will do anything for her except reveal secrets regarding his job. Harlow wants to give her husband a child but it unhappy with her husband's sex performance and secrecy regarding his business trips and money. Drake's secret puts his wife and unborn children in harm's way. Will he come clean? Will he be able to save their lives or lose everything? Will Harlow be able to forget Drake?

This book is a great read with lots of suspense, murder, sex, and betrayal. Each character is still being developed and we learn more and more about them due to Ms. Hobb's superb storytelling skills. One click this ebook to see if the three friends finally have a happily ever after.



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Review: Nasty Secrets Part 2


Nasty Secrets Part 2
Nasty Secrets Part 2 by La'Tonya West

My rating: 2 of 5 stars



This story picks up where the nastiness in part 1 ended. Jasmine attempts to get into another relationship to forget the old one with no success. She realizes Erika still has her heart so she picks up the phone to rekindle their relationship. Erika is happy to hear from Jasmine but plans her own revenge to get back at Jas for revealing the nasty secret. One thing leads to another and Jasmine gets the last laugh. This story could have been combined with part 1 as it just seem to dragged out the story.



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Review: Nasty Secrets


Nasty Secrets
Nasty Secrets by La'Tonya West

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Jasmine has a hardworking man, Nathan who would do anything for her and his sister, Erika. With Erika needing a change in her environment, Nathan allows her to move in with him and his girlfriend. Jasmine questions Nathan and Jasmine's background and their relationship with their parents. The story leaves you to believe that Nathan moved out of their parent's home because his career path was different than what they wanted for him. Whew! How far from the truth that is. A nasty secret will be revealed and lives will be changed. The plot was very twisted in thought and I wish a little bit more background was given on the main characters in order to develop the storyline more.



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Tuesday, October 8, 2013

Review: I Didn't Know


I Didn't Know
I Didn't Know by Yvette L Allen Tatum

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



I read this book in one day and even highlighted specific parts that I wanted to go back to after it has marinated on my mind for a few days. This book pulled on my heartstrings and emitted a turmoil of emotions from the time I opened the book and the author spoke about her own personal sexual assault beginning at the tender age of 7. As a mom of five children, the youngest being 8 years old, tears fell. I cried for the author who is now a grown woman and I cried for the children that lost their innocence from a sick adult who thought it was okay to violate, yes violate, someone who didn't know!

The book breaks down the definitions from what we think they mean to the legal meaning for them. It is important that we know we can't protect our children 24 hours a day as they go to sporting events, afterschool activities, friend's homes, etc but we can do our damn best to make sure they know when someone is touching them in an area that is "covered" and that it is okay to tell a trusted adult. We also must realized not all the time, it is a stranger who sexually assaults someone....most often than not, it is a family member, close friend or clergy member.

We, as a society, have to stop making this topic taboo in our homes, places of worships and schools. Our children can not be afraid.

I applaud Yvette Allen-Tatum for bringing this subject to the forefront. This subject must be direct as to do away with any myths. I highly suggest parents get this book and start an age-appropriate discussion with their children... boys and girls as no one is exempt from a sexual predator. Parents, do your research, recognize the signs, search for predators in your area by going to your state police website, be informed. Never should YOU say " I DIDN'T KNOW."



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BLOG TOUR: Yvette Allen-Tatum

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

·         An Author, Teacher, Conference Host, Public Speaker, Encourager, Motivator, Ordained Minister of The Gospel, Radical for Christ, the list goes on ...

·         Married (10 years); this is a second marriage for both of us.  We have five children between us – All Girls; women actually since the youngest is 18.

·         I’m in the process of earning a Master of  Arts in Human Services – Executive Leadership from Liberty University.  I am also a graduate of Grace Christian College where I earned my Master's of Divinity and a Bachelor of Arts in Theology; and a graduate of the University of Richmond, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Finance and a Minor in Leadership Studies.

·         I am the Founder of Surrounded By Faith Ministries, Inc.  Surrounded By Faith Ministries is a women's ministry ordained by God to transform the lives of women with the Word of God.  You can find out more about Surrounded By Faith Ministries by visiting us on the web at http://wwww.surroundedbyfaith.org.

·         To date, I have authored two books Welcome to my Morning Glory and I Didn't Know, taught numerous Bible Studies, have been a featured speaker at several conferences and hosted numerous ministry events; most notably The Throw Yo' Hands Up Conferences sponsored by Surrounded By Faith Ministries.

·         What began as a mandate from God to train and equip women in the ways of the Lord so they would become like the Proverbs 31 woman in the Bible, has expanded to a platform of child advocacy.  Actually, my spiritual focus has always been on the family unit – to receive and achieve spiritual wholeness.    First, targeting women – to strengthen them as the nurturing forces they were created to be; and now giving a voice to the voiceless – our children.



What type of jobs or careers have you worked in the past?

For the most part I’ve always worked in Corporate America in the capacity of an analyst.  I’ve always had a fascination with numbers


Who are your favorite authors?

That’s a good question.  Let’s see; I like Bee Bee More Campbell, Maya Angelou, Rick Joyner, Joyce Meyer and Juanita Bynum.



What are your favorite books?
 
Wow, I’ve never thought about this before and I can’t really say that I have a favorite book or books.  I remember buying a collection of books by Maya Angelou and how much I really enjoyed reading them.
I would say that I like a variety of books by various authors but I cannot recall all the names of the books; but to mention a few:  Your Blues Ain’t Like Mine, The Call, The Final Quest, The Five Love Languages, How To Enjoy Where You Are On The Way To Where You Are Going and The Threshing Floor.

I actually read in spurts and sometimes do not complete reading the entire book once I’ve gotten from it what I want/need.
 
 
Are you a full-time writer? If so, describe your day?
No, I’m not a full-time writer.  I write by inspiration.  I can usually go from concept to paper in just a few days; typically a weekend.  From there, it depends on the nature and the purpose of the book as to how many revisions and/or research is needs to be added to complete the book. 
 
 
 
 
 
Tell us about your journey to publication.

The journey of publishing my first book was simple and easy.  As I previously stated, I had written the book for myself not knowing that it was a book at the time.  In short, I did not set out write a book.  My second book was written intentionally.  I purposefully wanted to share my story and hopefully do my part to prevent it from happening to others.
Specifically, I wrote the book:

§  To expose the enemy (I believe this lessens his power)

§  To overcome the guilt & shame by being able to confront it head on

§  To encourage and educate others on how to identify, confront & overcome child sexual abuse

§  To set the captives FREE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
When did you begin to realize you wanted to write?
Well, I’ve always written in some form or another and I believe that’s because I’ve always been a dreamer.  I enjoy journaling and writing plays.  I did not realize that I had the capacity to write for an audience until some of my school papers were reviewed for a counseling class.  From there I sat down one weekend and wrote my first book.  At the time I did not know it was a book because I was merely just getting/putting my thoughts and feelings on paper for me.  After my husband read it he said I should publish it.  From there I met with a publisher, who was also my husband’s publisher (he writes poetry), and I guess I can say the rest is history.
 
 
 
 
I DIDN’T KNOW VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR with YVETTE ALLEN- TATUM
Paperback: 110 pages
Publisher: Kingdom Publishing Group, Inc. (March 15, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0988312670/  ISBN-13: 978-0988312678
 
 
About The Book
“I Didn't Know" is for more than just an audience of one. If you look to your left, look to your right, or directly in the mirror, you will see or know someone who has been sexually abused... even if you look in the mirror, and the person is YOU! More than the tragedy of sexual abuse is the tragedy of the silence of sexual abuse. It must be talked about. Our stories have to be shared; someone's life is literally depending upon YOU to BREAK THE IGNORANCE OF SILENCE! "I Didn't Know" brings to the forefront the many hidden faces of child sexual abuse. The author, Yvette L. Allen-Tatum, shares not only her story, but the compelling testimonies of others--everyone from the actual victim, to the offender, to those who standby by in disbelief and allow these heinous crimes against our children to continue. Our voices have to be heard, our children must be free or freed to tell the TRUTH: that someone touched them. Who can they run to? Will it be you?
 
 
Connect with the Author
Twitter: Twitter.com/loosed03
Facebook: Facebook.com/Yvette.tatum
 Buy Links

Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/om77u4q
Barnes & Nobles: http://tinyurl.com/ngowlaq
 
 



Monday, October 7, 2013

Author Explosion- May 16-17, 2014

Are you a published author (Christian, Motivation, Inspiration - includes children, photography, and poetry)?
Would you like to be honored for your accomplishments?
Would you like to come to Maryland for a 2-day weekend?
Would you like t...o meet your readers and "potential" new ones?
This will be an event you don't want to miss!!!!

10 slots ONLY for EXCLUSIVE vendors. This means there will be ONE of an item (jewelry, purses, etc.)

100 Authors! 10 Vendors! Free to public....... May, 2014

Contact Pam Mintz for more information

Saturday, October 5, 2013

Zane's Writing and Publishing Boot Camp

Enrizon World Wide, Inc. Presents
"Zane's Writing and Publishing Boot Camp"
Saturday, November 16th, 2013
11 AM-4 PM
Oxon Hill Library-Auditorium
6200 Oxon Hill Road, Oxon Hill, MD 20745...
Cost: $75.00 (includes lunch)

If you are serious about writing and/or publishing, you do not want to miss this event. There are many writing workshops, publishing workshops, and conferences around the globe, but this is the first one conducted by New York Time Bestselling Author, Publisher, Screenwriter and Executive Producer Zane. While most events of this nature typically cost upwards of a hundred dollars and while Zane could arguably charge triple that, this event is only seventy-five dollars. Zane wants everyone to have a chance to attend.

Learn how to:
Create unforgetabble characters
Outline the perfect storyline
Avoid typical writing mistakes
Discover your writing style
Become disciplined enough to meet deadlines-whether self-imposed or given by a publisher.
Market your book through social media platforms
Increase your readership base
Select the appropriate outlets for your books
Get distribution for your books
Hire the right editor for your projects
Distinguish the difference between being a writer and being an author
Write fiction, nonfiction, television, and film
Approach literary agents
Submit to publishers
Negotiate a book deal that makes sense
Understand today's publishing climate and realistic expectations
...and much more.

This boot camp is not for those individuals who believe that writing is all about making a fast buck. This class is for those who are serious about the craft of writing and passionate about the art. Whether you are an aspiring writer or already published, there will be valuable information for all in attendance. This is not a pitch session for Zane. If you want to submit something to Strebor Books/ATRIA Books/Simon and Schuster, please bring it with you and provide to Nakita West at the event. Since everyone is paying for the experience, it would be unfair for time to be taken away for individual projects. However, there will be plenty of time for a Q & A about general questions, concerns, and topics. 

  If you wish to bring books for Zane to sign, she will do so at the conclusion of the event, after 4 PM. No videotaping will be allowed during the session, but photography is allowed.
For more information on the event, please contact Nakita West at ZanesRightHandChick@gmail.com.

This event will likely sell out quickly so please reserve your space as soon as possible. This event is a rare opportunity. In fact, it is the first of its kind.

BIO: Zane is the New York Times Bestselling Author of more than thirty titles, the Publisher of Strebor Books/ATRIA Books/Simon and Schuster and the Creator, Scriptwriter and Executive Producer of two Cinemax series: Zane's Sex Chronicles and Zane's The Jump Off. Her novel, Addicted, has been produced for the big screen by Lionsgate. Zane has published hundreds of titles by other authors, including 60 in 2013. She has won numerous awards, including the 2006 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Fiction. She has been featured in numerous documentaries, including HBO's "The Black List" alongside Colin Powell, Toni Morrison, Russell Simmons and Sean Combs. She is one of Ebony 2012 "Power 100" and was recently placed at the top of Hollywood Reporter's "Authors to Watch" on the "Most Powerful Authors in Hollywood" list. She is one of the top 20 authors on Facebook, listed at #12 between Agatha Christie and J.K. Rowling. In 2010, Black Voices on Money listed Zane as number three on the "African American Women in Business: 10 Hottest Business Divas" list. Oprah was number one and Beyonce was number two. Zane has been featured in numerous media publications, including People, has been interviewed by various outlets, including The CBS Early Show, and has spoken at dozens of universities, including Yale University.

To register, please send the $75.00 fee (per person) via PayPal.com to Planetzane@gmail.com and includes name(s) of registrants. You will be sent a confirmation number and ticket to print out. You can also register on http://zanestore.com/bosano1520.html
 

Thursday, October 3, 2013

COVER REVEAL: Reverse Seduction and Chronicles of a Betrothed by Annetta Hobson

Reverse Seduction

Early in life Jessica Monroe carefully planned out her future, but at age 26, she has deviated from her original plans. She attained nothing she wanted, even after strategically hooking her boyfriend Joseph McCoy. She has dated him since her sophomore year in high school. His career as an actor was nearly set in stone, rather than her intended life of luxury, Jessica has been left with a son and dead-end job. Adding to her disappointment, as an out of work actor Joseph attends a very expensive acting school, which she pays for. Trapped and without options, Jessica learns from Joseph's best friend, Marcus Gibson, that his wealthy womanizing boss, Mr. Gerald Carson needs a new assistant. Jessica views this as an opportunity to get all that she has ever wanted and mor...e. She plans to seduce and manipulate her way into his bed without anyone realizing it. Can she play the innocent culprit in order to obtain her every desire?



 Chronicles of a Betrothed

 19 year old Chakori is the daughter of Prime Minister Roshan Desai. In a desperate attempt to end his nation's devastating battle avoiding anniliation between their war stricken islands, the Prime Minister offers Chakori as a pawn in an unfavorable treaty. Gifted to Monarch Pavan Khattris's son, Daler Khattris. for marriage, Chakori sees her father's act as betrayal. She escapes with her soldier boyfriend Elliot Lockhart, but soon after their plight, they are discovered. Chakori is whisked away to live on the Prime Minister's rival island, which has everything she ever wanted. Upon her arrival; however, it is revealed that her husband to be is as evil and murderous as his father, and as she tries to hate him his charisma overpowers her disgust. Before she can protest, Chakori is living an adventurous, but treacherous life and she is faced with a dilemma . . . should she give in to desire or uphold her morality and senses for right or wrong?