BLOG SPOTLIGHT: He Changed My Name by Unoma Nwankwor

Book Title: He Changed My Name

Publisher: KevStel Group February 12, 2016

ASIN: B01B786XFE

Genre: Christian Fiction Romance

Author: Unoma Nwankwor

About the Book: Eager to escape the hypocrisy of the church and build her singing career, pop sensation, Ayanti “Yanni” Effiong enters and wins The Next World Star. Apart from fulfilling her dream, her move to America offers the perfect opportunity to help young female immigrants. A cause she pursues with a passion until fame takes over. Fifteen years later, broke, dumped and fresh out of jail, she begins to regret the lifestyle and name she created for herself.

Mensah Afortey is on the brink of losing the church he put his heart and soul into for the past seven years. This years’ Valentine Day gala is his last attempt to raise money for the church. Everything is set but they need a big name to pull in donations. Just as he is about to give up, in walks “Yanni.” When he agreed for Ayanti to serve community service under his church he didn’t know she was the same person as the embattled star.

While she pays her debt to society, the last thing she wants to do is perform on a day that left a bitter taste in her mouth. But there is no denying the instant attraction between them. Before he wins her heart, Mensah must win her soul. Over time and in fellowship with the church, Ayanti comes to realize that despite what man calls her, God has the ability to change her name.

Excerpt:

The shrill ring of her phone brought her back to the present. She sat up against the headboard. Her heartbeat accelerated as she answered the phone. It was Debby.

“Please give me good news.”

“Hey, chica,” Debby responded. “I hope you’re doing better.”

Earlier, Ayanti had a breakdown. She had screamed and bawled her eyes out, wishing she was back in Calabar, the capital city of her home, Cross Rivers in Nigeria. It seemed like a lifetime ago she won that competition and left the country.

“Yes, I’m fine, but tell me I can be better.”

“Okay, here’s the deal. Charity for Homes had filled up with court ordered volunteers until next month…”

“I can’t wait that long!”

“Lemme finish, girlie. We were able to get you to volunteer with them not as an individual, but under a church group.”

“A church!” Ayanti wiped her hands across her face. She hadn’t been in one of those in years. Did Debby have any idea the kind of judgment that went on in that place? She’d take her chances with the mean police officer until next month.

“Hear me out. The church volunteers with Homes for Charity as a non-sponsor group. You can be part of those volunteers and when they are not volunteering, you can still make up some hours by working in the church. That way, you can get this thing over with faster. Now tell me that doesn’t beat picking up trash in the streets,” Debby finished.

“But those people would have known what I did. Why I’m there...”

“And? Which one of them there hasn’t done anything bad?” Debby asked. “Girl, think about it. Besides, you have nothing else to lose at this point.”

“I guess you’re right.” Ayanti contemplated the whole arrangement.

“Of course I am.” A beat of silence passed between them. “Now get some rest and I’ll see you tomorrow. Think about it and let me know what you want to do. You have until the end of the week.”

“What’s the name of the church?”

“Ummm...hold on.” The shuffling noise of paper could be heard in the background. “It’s called Calvary Is the Way. It’s on Auburn.”

Ayanti remained silent for a few minutes. After a while they disconnected. Ayanti switched off the television and turned to her side. Calvary Is the Way? She rolled her eyes. These new age churches and their names. What ever happened to churches with sensible names? Like Mount something...

© 2016 Unoma Nwankwor

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About the Author: Born in Akron, Ohio to Nigerian parents, Unoma Nwankwor spent her childhood and early adulthood years in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria. She possesses a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and a Master’s degree in Global Management. Her publishing credits include An Unexpected Blessing (2013), The Christmas Ultimatum (2013), When You Let Go (May, 2014), A Scoop of Love (Jan, 2015) and Anchored By Love (Dec 2015). She is also the recipient of the 2015 Nigerian Writer’s Award for Best Faith Based Fiction Writer. Her work has appeared in Africa Book Club, USA Today HEA blog and The Kenyan E-zine; Wamathai. Her stories are described as a fusion of faith, romance and African spice. Unoma is also the co-owner of KevStel Group LLC and resides in Atlanta Georgia with her husband and two children.

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: Meiah Shaun

Good Morning.  Today we are spotlighting Author Meiah in our 10/10 seat.

Can you please tell us who is Author Meiah? 

My name is Meiah Shaun and I’m an inspirational author.  I’m a native of Orange, Texas and I currently reside in Plano, Texas.  I graduated from LeTourneau University where I received my Bachelor’s of Business Administration and an MBA. 

My new book is called Marvelous Are Thy Works.  My book covers the natural hair movement, self-love and relationships.  I have a special interest in empowering black women to self love and to embrace their natural hair.  I’m featured on Ezinearticles.com.  I have published articles on numerous topics such as inspirational, spirituality, goal setting to shopping and product reviews.  I enjoy writing, reading, cooking, jazz music and making scrapbooks.  

What was your inspiration behind your first book?

My natural hair journey is the inspiration behind my book.  I decided to wear my natural hair in 2007 and I stop chemically relaxing my hair. I’m passionate about the natural hair movement.  I love encouraging black women to embrace and wear their natural hair.  My book is a combination of my imagination and personal experiences.

What do you wish more people knew about the publishing side of things?

It’s important to have a plan as an indie publisher.  I’ve learned it’s important to know your target audience and have a marketing strategy.

What would you consider your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment is following my dream and writing my first book!

Do you have a philosophy by which you live?

My faith in God is what gets me through the highs and lows of life.  I believe that God is on my side to prosper and I’m grateful for his many blessings.

What type of legacy would you like to leave for your readers?

I believe that God makes no mistakes and that we are all marvelous and made in his image.  I encourage women to self-love and know your worth.

How important was a "platform" in selling your books?

Initially, I felt my target audience was only black women wearing natural hair.  As a result, my book has appealed to all women of races and color.  I received feedback from book reviewers who are Caucasian women.  Both of them told me that they were inspired, enlightened and entertained by Marvelous Are Thy Works! I’m so grateful that my book is inspiring all women!

Do you have book signings coming up where readers can meet you?

Yes, I’m planning to host a book party this summer in the Dallas, TX area!  Readers can stay tune for more information by following me on Twitter and Facebook as well as visiting my website.

Can you tell us about your upcoming project(s)?

I’m working on my second book. It’s an inspirational story about forgiveness, healing and redemption. I plan to publish it by early 2016.

What advice do you have to an aspiring author?

My advice is to continue writing and connect with other writers for inspiration and to network.  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meiah Shaun is an inspirational author and freelance writer.  She is a graduate of LeTourneau University.  She is featured on Ezinearticles.com as a platinum level author.  Meiah Shaun is the author of Marvelous Are Thy Works, (VC Publishing, 2014).  Meiah Shaun has a special interest in empowering African American women to self love and to embrace their natural hair.  She and her twin sister rock Sisterlocks.  She resides in Plano, Texas.  Visit her at meiahshaun.com and follow her on Twitter @MeiahShaun and on Facebook.

Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Website ~ Amazon

“I think black women should do away with weaves altogether,” Sheba said. “As y’all know…I refuse to do them. I’m able to grow my clients’ hair without ‘em.” 

Just then, a tall, medium build woman walked into the salon wearing sunglasses, a mauve colored dress, and a trendy beige straw hat. Fatima greeted her in the foyer. Sheba followed behind Fatima to the foyer, while Lauryn took a seat in her chair.

“Hello, how can we help you?” Fatima asked, giving her a warm smile.

The woman removed her sunglasses. “Hi, I’m Bridgette, a former client of Sheba’s.”

“Hey, Bridgette, it’s been a minute since I’ve seen you, girl!” Sheba gave her a bear hug.

“I’m in town on business. I fly back to Los Angeles in the morning.”

Sheba asked, “Do you still work in consulting?” 

“Yep, in tax consulting and I still travel a lot.” Bridgette flashed her pearly white teeth while clutching her briefcase.

“Do you need to get your hair done today?” Sheba asked.

“Oh no, girl. I just wanted to stop by and say hello.” 

Sheba bent her knees and arched her back so she could get a glanced of Bridgette’s hair underneath her hat. Bridgette blushed and took a few steps backwards. Then she laughed coyly and pulled her hat upward from her forehead. Sheba viewed her receding hairline.

“I have a confession,” Bridgette stated. “Once I relocated back to L.A., I went back to putting relaxers in my head.”

Sheba swallowed hard to keep from gasping, then forced a smile.

“Girl, I hated my coiled texture,” Bridgette continued. “It was too much for me to manage. Please don’t judge me.”

“Oh no, never! It’s your decision, but your hair was beautiful and healthy when it was under my care.” Sheba stood with her hands on her hips, observing Bridgette’s mannerism.

Fatima walked over to Lauryn’s station. They stared at the scene.

“It’s nothing personal, Sheba. It just wasn’t me. Once I moved back home, I shifted back to my old self,” Bridgette explained.

“I see. Well, you look good!”

“I have another appointment this morning. Maybe we could go to lunch next time I visit,” Bridgette told her as she headed toward the exit.

“Sure, if I’m available. I’m glad things are going well for you out there.” 

They hugged again. Then after escorting Bridgette out of the salon, Sheba dragged her feet back to her station and huffed.

“Sheba, don’t get so worked up over it. Bridgette said she couldn’t manage her hair.”

“But, Lauryn, she didn’t have any complaints when I did her hair.”

“It takes confidence to accept what you have,” Fatima said.

“I don’t care that she wears extensions, but to go back to a relaxer is just crazy!”

“Not every black woman will be natural. It’s a choice,” said Lauryn.

BLOG SPOTLIGHT: Vanessa Santiago-Jerman

Can you please tell us who is Vanessa, the author?
I am a mom, wife and grandmother who has a passion for writing to educate, entertain and inspire children.


Since your previous work was a poetry book, what was your inspiration behind your children's books?
Well I would say it was looking back to when my kids were babies. I read to them every night. I felt like that connection with parents and children has been lost and it needs to come back via story time. Not to mention, more diverse books are definitely needed.



What do you wish more people knew about the publishing side of things?
I tried going through a publisher and it wasn't a good experience for me. I feel that although publishing works well for some, I choose to self publish my own work and cut the middle man.


What would you consider your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is my children. As an Author it's just seeing the response I get from my supporters. I love my supporters.


Do you have a philosophy by which you live?
I have a scripture which I live by. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me. It keeps me motivated and encouraged to follow my dreams.


What type of legacy would you like to leave for your readers?
I would love to leave behind a collection if books that will be around for generations to come. I would love to be known as an advocate for childhood literacy.


How important was a "platform" in selling your books?
I feel that using a platform is very helpful as it puts me in front if many people at once but I will never use that as the only source if exposure. I talk to people wherever I go, I share my business cards, bookmarks and make connections. Also word of mouth has been wonderful in helping me sell my books and share what I do.


Do you have any book signings coming up where readers can meet you?
I will be at the ladies night in Brooklyn event April 18, 2015 5-10pm. I will also be at the book fair hosted by Author Sharnel on June 20th in Newark NJ.


Can you tell us about your upcoming project(s)?
I have 5 books that are due to release April through June 2015. I have been working hard.


What is the one material thing you can't live without and why?
I would say my cell phone because it's how I stay connected to my supporters, network and stay organized.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

Amazon ~ Facebook ~ Author Page ~ Website

 

 

 

Author Vanessa Santiago-Jerman VSJ, is a mother, wife and grandmother. Her love for writing began at the early age if 8 years old. Her early writings were mostly poetry and short stories. Her love for kids has moved her passion into writing for children, this is where she is the happiest.

Chatting it Up with Author NeNe Capri

Can you please tell us who is NeNe Capri?

I am the Author of several Urban Fiction novels which includes, The Pussy Trap series, Trust No Bitch series, Tainted: Lies. Fear. And Death, Love is Blind a book where 100% of the proceeds go to fight against domestic violence and my new release Dream Weaver. I am the CEO of Boss Lady Publishing, Also Co-Founder of Writing Royalty and Writing Royalty Entertainment. I wear many hats author, publisher, book agent and paralegal. But, in all of my I have been blessed to accomplish the most important title, is Mom. Everything I do is for my princess.

 

What was your inspiration behind your first book?

Besides the fact that I had a story to tell, I loved the energy of the readers. I love the look on a readers face when they meet their favorite author for the first time, and the life in their eyes when they express their feeling about the characters and events in the book. To me as an author, there is no greater feeling.

What do you wish more people knew about the publishing side of things?

It is real work. It is not just make a logo, book cover, and upload. You have to teach and train your team. The work has to be professionally edited, typeset and presented in a way that will establish who you are as a company and brand. The publisher is then responsible for availing themselves of the knowledge of the industry, study, read, and research. The Publisher must set up a platform for their authors to sell books knowing that social media is not the only avenue if you want to see your team successful.

 

What would you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Personally, having my daughter. Professionally, I haven’t done it yet ;).

 

Do you have a philosophy by which you live?

“Good things come to those who wait…But only what’s left from those who hustle.”

 

What type of legacy would you like to leave for your readers?

I would like my reading Bosses to know, that with each book, I left my heart on the page.

 

How important was a "platform" in selling your books?

Having a platform is very crucial to the sale of a book. Each product has an audience. As the author we have to write with our target audience in mind, then we have to market in accordance to our readers and the readers who would never read our style of writing. But if you write only for you and your community, you will miss out on meeting a whole world of great readers.

 

Do you have book signings coming up where readers can meet you?

Yes, I do. I will be in Texas in October 3-6 with Sisters of Essence Book Club keep your eyes peeled for updates and advertisements.

 

Can you tell us about your upcoming project(s)?

I am currently working on The Pussy Trap 4 and Tainted 2. I also have a new series I will be introducing at the end of the year. Dun, dun, dunnnnnn…#Trappin

 

What advice do you have to an aspiring author?

Study your craft. Learn the elements of language and disruption. Don’t rush the process or skip steps editing, cover art, formatting, marketing, promoting, and contracts you should know something about every aspect of the industry, before you even get started. Your favorite authors put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get where they are, if you want what they have, you have to do what they have done. Learn and study the art and tell a different story, be honest to your pen. Admire the work of others then go create the opposite, your readers are waiting for you. Build a brand you will be proud to stand on.

 

 

CONTACT

Facebook: Author Nene Capri

 Instagram: Nene Capri

Twitter: Nene Capri

 Website: NeneCapri.com 

 

 

 

Boss Lady Publishing was founded and is headed by the best-selling author NeNe Capri. Nene started her writing journey under the tutelage of New York Times bestselling Author Wahida Clark releasing her first series of books called The Pussy Trap. It would be three years and three books later that she would use the knowledge learned to write independently which catapulted her into starting “Boss Lady Publishing” the journey was full of obstacles but well worth every step. In 2014 NeNe secured an imprint for Boss Lady Publishing under the Literary Powerhouse G Street Chronicles.           Boss Lady Publishing is dedicated to giving authors a platform for their work where they can learn the craft and grow with their art. We are looking for authors with drive, ambition and a hunger for knowledge of the industry and the art of great story telling. With the wisdom and experience our team has gathered our authors will have the opportunity to expose their work to thousands of readers, reviewers and lovers of the written word. NeNe Capri has formed a radio show called Writing Royalty Radio in which she helps provide a voice for Authors, Poets, Musicians so that the reading and listening community gets to know the Artist behind the pen.

 

Blog Spotlight: Awakened by Virna DePaul

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New York Times Bestseller Virna DePaul is excited for the release of the second book in her Belladonna Agency series, AWAKENED!

“Some Flowers Thrive Better in the Dark.”


“A captivating start to a fascinating new series with a hero who’s to die for!”

—-Nationally bestselling author Rhyannon Byrd

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AWAKENED BY VIRNA DEPAUL

Belladonna Agency Book 2

July 1, 2014

Perfect for fans of J. R. Ward, Nalini Singh, and Lara Adrian, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Virna DePaul’s thrilling series of paranormal romances invites readers into a seductive and dangerous world where vampires secretly exist among the general population, while the FBI tries to keep the Rogues among them from preying on humans—for killing, for turning, for pleasure.



 
Ex-soldier Barrett Miles had no idea that vampires were real—until Belladonna recruits her to serve as a covert agent and infiltrate a murderous sex ring run by the most depraved of immortals, those who feed on the purity and blood of innocents. Their latest victim: a young girl whom Barrett promised to protect. She will be sold—unless Barrett can find her first. Forced to team up with her former lover, Nick Maltese, an undercover sniper, Barrett is caught between fulfilling her personal mission and shielding her heart from the man who betrayed her.



Nick’s hunting a new breed of vampires and harboring a terrible secret when Barrett finds him. Soon a seething underworld of strange desires threatens to engulf them all. Can he save the girl and reclaim Barrett’s heart? Nick knows he has only one chance to prove himself to her as the hunt begins—and their love forces them to embrace the darkest places in their souls.



Buy Links: Amazon, Kindle , Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, iTunes

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Excerpt

Barrett heard a muffled splash. She raised her head to look around, seeing only the disturbed surface of the water. Strong hands grabbed her ankles and forced her legs down. She kicked free, frightened.



Nick’s head popped up next to her. He swam in place, smiling. Barrett splashed him until he laughed.



“Sorry. I couldn’t stand it another second. You looked like a water goddess.”



“I thought you didn’t have trunks.”



His shoulders and chest were bare and gleaming with water. He splashed her back when she tried to look down.



“You wish, Barrett. Had to keep on the jeans.”



She swam away, letting him follow. They circled each other in the water for a minute or so.



“You okay?” he asked softly.



“Yes.”



They played around in the water for several minutes, then drifted together. One minute she’d been swimming by herself, and the next Nick was here with her, playing with her, bringing back memories of how good it had felt to be with him, both in bed and out. She really had missed him. So much. “I’m tired,” Barrett whispered.



“Put your arms around my shoulders,” Nick in­structed. “Just ride. Don’t help.”



She hesitated briefly, knowing she was being weak. Reminding herself that she’d ended things with him for a reason—to protect her heart—and that she’d only come to him so he’d help her find Jane. She sighed. Just thinking Jane’s name made her feel small and powerless.



She didn’t want to feel that way. For now, she didn’t want to think of anything else but her and Nick. Almost defiantly, she reached out and clung to him, feeling the power in his muscled back, keeping her legs free of his strong kicks. It was bliss to let him take over and go in circles in the warm water. When they were nearly at the ladder, he pushed her arms off and rolled so that they were face to face but still floating. He brushed away the wet blond silk from her cheeks and kissed her. Again and again.



Nick pulled back, breathing hard. “I want you, Bar­rett. I know it’s not a good time, but it’s been over a year. A whole fucking year of me not having you. Of not being inside you. You don’t want this, just tell me now and I’ll—”



Barrett pressed her fingers against his mouth, effec­tively stopping his words. He’d sounded so damn des­perate when he’d been talking. Desperate for her. And she felt that same desperation spiraling inside her. In that moment, all her doubts, self-protective thoughts, and worries fled. She let go of her guilt about Noah and Jane and let herself be greedy. She was going to have to leave Nick as abruptly as she’d found him in order to return to D.C. and interview Jane’s guardians. Couldn’t she take something for herself first?



She couldn’t think of anything she wanted more than to take Nick.



“I want you, too, Nick. I’ve never stopped wanting you.”



At her whispered confession, he snagged her wrist and dragged it away from his mouth. He kissed her again, angling his head for maximum positioning, tangling his tongue with hers and pressing her so close that she felt not only desired but safe.

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99 Cents until 7/4

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TURNED BY VIRNA DEPAUL

Belladonna Agency Book 1

Welcome to a mesmerizing world where vampires hide among humans. This centuries-old species has its own rules, code of conduct, and taboos. Only the FBI knows that vampires exist—and although the Bureau agrees to keep their secret, it also plots to give humans the upper hand.


Turning mortals into vampires is forbidden.
 
But there are creatures who refuse to play by the rules.



Ever since he was turned, FBI special agent Ty Duncan has had one mission: bring rogue vampires to justice. As a recruiter for Belladonna, a shadow agency formed to keep vampires in check, Ty must tap Ana Martin, a troubled ex–gang member and one of the few mortals who can infiltrate places that his kind and the law cannot. From their first encounter, Ty fights a hunger to make Ana his own.



When Ty claims to have information about Ana’s missing sister, Ana has no choice but to trust this captivating stranger who awakens her deepest desires. But as she and Ty climb the heights of pleasure and passion, an enemy is conspiring to destroy them both.



Can Ana help Ty find his humanity in a love that could heal them both, or will their passion lead them into a darkness impossible to escape?



Wordpress Buy Links: Amazon, Amazon Kindle, Amazon Audio, Barnes & Noble, Book Depository, iTunes

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About Virna

Virna DePaul is a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author of steamy, suspenseful fiction.  Whether it’s vampires, a Para-Ops team, hot cops or swoon-worthy identical twin brothers, her stories center around complex individuals willing to overcome incredible odds for love.



Bedding The Wrong Brother is a #1 Bestselling Contemporary Romance, and is followed by Bedding The Bad Boy. Her PNR series with Random House launched on April 1, 2014 with Turned. She loves to hear from readers at  www.virnadepaul.com

Find Virna Online

Website, Newsletterletter, Facebook, Twitter,

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Ms. DePaul will be giving away two audio copies of Bedding the Wrong Brother and three copies of Bedding the Bad Boy. These are books one and two in the BEDDING THE BACHELOR series.

BEDDING THE WRONG BROTHER by Virna DePaul

Bedding the Bachelors, Book 1

Melina Parker prides herself on being a lady in public, but after she’s dumped yet again for being a lady in the bedroom, she’s ready to go back to school.



Determined to find her inner sex drive, she enlists her childhood friend Max Dalton, to tutor her after hours.



Instead, she ends up in the wrong bed and gets a message in passion from Max’s twin brother, Rhys Dalton, a man Melina’s always secretly wanted by never thought she could have.

FREE on digital until 7/16

Amazon, iTunes

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BEDDING THE BAD BOY by Virna DePaul

Bedding the Bachelors, Book 2

This bad boy is ready to work some magic…

Identical twin and Las Vegas performer Max Dalton has always been the number one bad boy in his family, and he’s appreciated the women and fame that comes along with his reputation.



Grace Sinclair is on a mission when she comes to Vegas, one that involves asking Max, her best friend’s brother-in-law, to give her the pleasure no man’s ever been able to. She suspects Max has more layers than he lets people see, but she’s determined to keep her heart safe even as she offers him her body.



What neither of them plan on is love—or the triangle the media stirs up with Max’s blonde bombshell actress friend.



Will Grace see beyond Max’s bad boy façade long enough to trust him with her heart? And will Max figure out what he really wants before he loses the one woman who makes him believe in love again?

Buy Links: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, iTunes, iTunes Audio, Audible

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