AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: Yara Kaleemah

Good Morning!  Today, we are hosting in our 10/10 seat Author Yara Kaleemah.

Can you please tell us who is Author Yara? 

Yara Kaleemah is a outgoing person who enjoys jumping on the bed when no one is home. 

What was your inspiration behind your latest book?
I wanted to dig deeper into my story telling abilities. I had to write something that set me apart from other authors. Often I hear readers complain that Urban Lit or African American fiction books are recycled. I don't want to be boxed in. 

What do you wish more people knew about the publishing side of things?
I wish that people knew that it is easy to self publish. Why be obligated to someone when you can make your own rules? 

What would you consider your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is taking the steps to take control of my career.

Do you have a philosophy by which you live?
Never let anyone deter you from your dreams. 

What type of legacy would you like to leave for your readers?
I want them to read Yara Kaleemah's books and talk about the experience they had when reading. 

How important was a "platform" in selling your books?
It's important to explore different platforms and avenues when selling a product. You have to have the ability to draw people in. 

Do you have book signings coming up where readers can meet you?
I will be at the Newark Book Fair on June 20th at the Newark Public Library. 

Can you tell us about your upcoming project(s)?
I have a new children's book expected to be published by September 2015.

What keeps you motivated?

My love for writing and the passion I have for molding my craft keeps me motivated.

Dark fell upon the small village. Dry warm air blew dust from the desert while mothers brewed stew of goat and duck on wooden stoves and fathers told stories of their ancestors’ past. The chanty town was complete with tepees of straw and small tents packed with families of four, five, or six. Onika lay still in a flat bed of sheep's skin and plucked leaves. As she stared at the makeshift ceiling she wondered what life would be like in the land she had heard about in the stories her teacher told them. Her teacher, a slender pale woman with thick blonde curls and ocean blue eyes, arrived there a few moons ago. She came from somewhere far away-- a place where women roamed free and soaked in knowledge without hesitation. Onika wanted that. She closed her eyes, dreaming of the place her teacher called America. 
   In the mist of the morning dew, her dream was shaken away when her mother woke her for school. She gently shook her by the arm and hissed in her ear. 
"You must wake now." Her hot breath brushed against the girl's earlobe. 
"I am awake." Onika's eyes popped open. "Get dressed and hurry." The woman moved toward the front of the tent. 
Onika sat up, stretching her arms, and then stood up. Mother had pressed her uniform and hung it over the hand built shelve. It was the only one they could afford. The dark green shirt was inscribed with the name of the brick school house and the short skirt was plaid; blue and green. Onika rolled a pair of knee-hi socks onto her frail legs and then slowly dressed in the uniform, slipping her feet into a shiny pair of leather shoes. Mother called them 'the good shoes.' 
   When she reached the front of the tent, a bowl of thick hot oatmeal awaited her. Mother's back was toward Onika as she sat in a wooden chair and started to eat. 
"You make sure to come straight home from school. Do not take any short cuts. Do you understand?" 
"Yes, ma'am." Onika rose from her seat, putting her napsack on her back. 
  It was still dark when she stepped outside. Her friend, Ada, was waiting a few feet away. They started the four mile walk to the school house. Along the way two or three more children joined them. They talked and laughed about nothing until they approached the edge of their town. That morning the road was blocked with cars. 
"We should turn back." Onika whispered. 
  "They may let us by." Ada's bottom lip rattled with fear. 
   A dark man emerged from the passenger seat of one of the trucks. Danger was ingrained in his face as he looked the group of children up and down. 
"Where are you going?" He growled. None of them answered though. 
He grabbed one of the boys by the collar. His lips rolled tight while he stared in his eyes. He posed the question again. 
"Where are you going?" 
The boy's teeth chattered as he shuttered to say, "School." 
He was let go with a hard shove and the man turned his attention to the three young girls in the crowd. All three looked away from the man, swollen with fear. Please, let him leave us, Onika prayed. Hot air blew from his nostrils onto her neck. 
"You do not need to go to school." He said. "Go back." He pointed up the road. "Female young have no need to go to school." Then, he did the unthinkable--running his hand on the edge of her skirt. 
Onika swatted him and backed away with clenched teeth. 
"Go back!" The man shouted. "You and you and you!" 
"We just want to learn." Ada's brave chest stuck out. "We aren't doing anything wrong." 
"You aren't doing anything wrong?" He laughed. "Everything you do is wrong. You are only good for laying on your back and making men children." He reached to grope her. "You know what?" A wicked smile creased his lips. "Lie down there." He pointed toward the ground. 
Ada looked down at the dirt road beneath her feet and then at the girls who accompanied her. Onika grabbed her hand. 
"We will go." Onika huffed. "We will go." They easily turned on their heels and hurried in the opposite direction. Onika looked over her shoulder every few steps until the men disappeared in the distance. 
"Let's go this way. It is a short cut I know." She pulled Ada toward the woods. 
   Tall trees covered the area while the girls jumped over logs and found a smooth trail. 
"Are you ever afraid?" Ada asked. 
"Afraid of what?" 
“Of what they might do to you? They are killing our people every day.” 
  The rest of walk was silent. The girls entered the school just as the bell rung. Onika took her seat in the front of the room because she liked to listen to their teacher talk. 
"Good morning, boys and girls." She said with a polite smile.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Yara Kaleemah was born and raised in Newark NJ. At age 7 she began to attend the summer program of Teach Enlighten Empower Motivate where she discovered her love for creative writing and expression. As the years went on, Yara started to write short stories and picture prompts. Later, her first poem was published in the American Poet Society's Anthology of Poetry. 

After becoming a teen mom, Yara decided that it was time to pursue her dream so in 2013, Too Much to Chew was published by Salaam Publications. 

Now Yara Kaleemah owns and operates SWAG Presents where she enjoys helping entrepreneurs take their experience to the next level.

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: Princess Diamond

Today, we welcome Princess Diamond to the 10/10 Author Spotlight seat.

Can you please tell us who is Princess Diamond?

I’m just a regular girl from Chicago, who has lived through the stuggles of inner city life. I love to read as well as write. Sometimes I read more than I write. I love to shop, get manicures and pedicures, go to the movies, play video games, and spend time with family. Most importantly, I go to church and try my best to put God first. 

What was your inspiration behind your first book?

What people would be surprised to know is Put My Name On It would be my first book. Even though, I put it out as my third piece of work. It was inspired by a male friend. He challenged me to write him a short story and that’s what I came up. 

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

It’s not as easy as it may seems. There are so many facets that go into putting a book out. From the person who wrote the book to the person who designed the cover to the editors and the marketing team. Often times, some or all of those hats are worn by the same person. Then, once your book is released to the world, you are critiqued about everything. Authors have to have tough skin.

What would you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Each new book that I put out is my greatest accomplishment. For me, that’s what it’s all about. The writing.

Do you have a philosophy by which you live?

Yes. Stay humble and thankful. 

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

Just great books that people love.

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

It’s very important. Having a platform makes advertising and connecting with readers simpler. Basically, we can reach more people in less amount of time.

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

No. Not yet. Maybe in the future. 

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

My next book which comes out in June. Vacation Breakup (Vacation Series Book 3).

What keeps you motivated?

I consider my ability to write a gift. Therefore, I’m always passionate about it, which keeps me highly motivated. Also, I think reading a lot helps too.

Excerpt of Vacation Backlash (Vacation Series Book 2)

Stoney has a bad feeling about leaving Vanity at the airport. He has a good right to be. Ivan is in a terrible mood when he finally decides to shows up. His mouth is real slick and he doesn’t seem to have a filter. Pissing people off appeared to be his mission. Although, Ivan is glad to see his wife, he is livid. Be-tween the pictures with another man on social media and the money missing out of their bank account, he is ready to put his hands on her.

Things get progressively worse when Ivan catches Vanity texting Stoney while they are in the car. That is when he finds out Vanity actually cheated on him. Up until this point, he thought she was just trying to make him jealous. Revealing her infidelity sends him over the edge into a fit of rage. He is heartbroken and intends on making Vanity suffer. Not only does he take his anger out on her, but he also comes face to face with Stoney in a very heated exchange. A confrontation that sparks a whole new set of problems that nobody saw coming.

During Ivan’s downward spiral, he doesn’t realize what he has gotten himself into or who he is about to go up against. However, his bruised ego won’t allow him to let it things go.
Chasing a destructive path, Ivan doesn’t care if he is out numbered. He is willing to die trying to get revenge. Luckily, he ends up befriending the right person. Someone who is just as hurt as he is. Someone who is scorned and wants to see Vanity and Stoney pay for their actions too.

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Author Princess Diamond writes Urban Drama, Urban Romance, and Urban Erotic Fiction. She started writing at the age of eight as a hobby and continued to write throughout high school, undergraduate, and graduate school. She took courses in erotica, fiction, screen writing, and editing. After writing passionately for decades, she decided to start her own publishing company called Fiction World Publishing and share her work with the world. 

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.

His Ultimate Desire by Joy Avery

Author Joy Avery is giving away One His Ultimate Desire Goodie Bag. Enter content below.
Book Title: His Ultimate Desire, Book 2 in the Indigo Falls series
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Women’s Fiction
ASIN: B00W8MUYRC
Publication Date: April 17, 2015

A past packed with memories…

When Marisol Chesapeake returns to Indigo Falls, North Carolina, her ex is the last person she expects to see. The second their paths cross, sparks fly out of control. There’s no denying the attraction that still lingers, but there’s no way she can allow herself to act on it. No matter how badly she needs his strong, protective arms around her.
A future filled with possibilities…
Kincaid Tinsdale has spent the last few years away from Indigo Falls, and the hurtful memories there. But now he’s back, and so is the woman he’s dreamt about for the past ten years. The second his eyes settle on his ex, it awakens a hunger only she can satisfy. There’s just one problem. By the looks of it, Marisol wants nothing to do with him. But looks can be deceiving.
A present that will determine everything…
She’s not searching for love—especially his. He’s not giving up. Will the flame that once blazed between them be reignited? Or will she simply remain his ultimate desire?




Joy Avery is a contemporary romance author who loves watching her imaginary friends fall in love. In addition to HIS ULTIMATE DESIRE, she's the author of SMOKE IN THE CITI, HIS UNTIL SUNRISE, and CUPID'S ERROR: a novella. Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Heart of Carolina Romance Writers. When not crafting her next love story, she enjoys reading, spending time with the family, playing with her two dogs, and cake decorating.

Website                   Facebook              Twitter

Contest Giveaway: Author is giving away One (1) His Ultimate Desire Goodie Bag.

Contest Code~~~ Enter to Win. Content open to USA only
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Joy Avery and is hosted and managed by Paulette from Write Now Literary Book Tours. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Paulette @ pharperjohnson@gmail.com

Review: My Husband's Whore

My Husband's Whore by Racquel Williams

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



When a woman is fed up, there is no telling what she will do. In this book, you will meet Destiny and Imani and the supposedly head honcho, Hassan. Destiny puts up with so much of Hassan's low life ways and as the book proceeds, you will meet the side chick, Imani.

Sadly, Destiny was a relatable young woman. We all are that person or know someone who is. You know the type... put yourself on the back burner to help your man build his business while lurking in the backdrop is a woman who wants it all. The question is do you walk away or fight for what you helped build?

The author does a great job of developing each character and their distinct role in the book. The story flows well and has so many twists and turns, you wonder what is going to happen next. I can not wait for the release of part 2.




View all my reviews

Love, Hope, Faith Anthology

 

Title: Love. Hope. Faith Anthology

Produced by: Vanessa Miller
Genre: Christian Inspirational, Non-Fiction
Paperback: 166 pages
Publisher: Praise Unlimited Enterprises, LLC (February 18, 2015)
ISBN-10: 1508505330
ISBN-13: 978-1508505334

 

 

Stories of Love, Hope and Faith line the pages of this spiritually uplifting anthology produced by bestselling author, Vanessa Miller. Love. Hope. Faith. will take you on a journey toward your happy place. The contributing writers of this anthology pour out their hearts to deliver soul-stirring, Godly stories of triumph. The Love. Hope. Faith. anthology will touch your heart as it allows you to believe again.

 

 

 

 

 

From Trust-less to Trustworthy - By: Yvette Wilson Bentley

"When I looked at my friendships with women and why I didn’t trust them, I realized that I had lots to unpack and examine. I was okay not trusting women, but I knew that living as a Christian meant that my attitude and mindset had to change. Was it something that I wanted to do? At first, absolutely not! But I knew that to be of service to God and His people, a change had to be made, so I became willing to be willing. "

Back At One - By: Kendy Ward

“God, You promised that if I served You, followed You with every fiber of my being, then You would restore my family. It’s been five years. I don’t doubt that You can do anything. You specialize in the impossible, but my faith is faltering.” Jason then prayed in his heavenly language.

I am not a man that I should lie. I will complete the good work I have begun.

Jason released a sigh of relief. “Thank You for hearing me. I’ll wait. However long it takes, I will wait.”

No Greater Love - By: Rita Moore

“A few weeks into my pregnancy the doctor told us, the medications I had been taking caused harm to our child, test showed abnormal fluid. He suggested we terminate the pregnancy, or prepare for a child with birth defects! I was devastated, but my husband reminded me of the God we serve! Abortion was not an option! We found a new doctor, a believer, a doctor who trusted the miracle working love of God! Nine months later we had a perfectly healthy baby girl!”

"On the day of my surgery, prior to being wheeled into surgery, the doctor took my hand and said, “It is my custom to pray with my patients prior to conducting surgery”. I have never known a doctor to do that! Everything happens for a reason. His prayer spoke of his faith and trust in God to guide his hands, and he prayed for my complete healing. I felt confident he was definitely the doctor I needed to perform the surgery. God said He perfects those things that concern us!”

Leap Into Your Destiny- By: Sherae Bell

One morning in late December, as I posted what I expected to be my last prayer to Facebook, my seven-year-old granddaughter, Anashija, ran into the room.

She stood beside me, put her arm around my neck and politely, but in a matter-of-fact manner, said, “Grandma, are you writing your God Notes?”

I did not realize that she had been paying attention. Surprised, I looked at her and said, “My God Notes?”

“Yes, Grandma, your God Notes!”

“Why did you call them my ‘God Notes’?”

She took a deep breathe, sighed and then said, “Grandma, because you write your notes to God every day.” She ran out of the room as if she had completed her mission to confirm that my postings had nothing to do with me and everything to do with God.

God’s timing is always perfect. Not until we acknowledge that it is just that, His timing, will we be able to live as He has designed. Every time I wanted to give up, He stopped me from waving the flag. I realized that God ordained my words. I knew that He had more work for me. God is faithful. He brings to fruition what He has ordained to be accomplished, no matter the package used to deliver it.

Courage To Stand- By Paulette Harper

Have you ever took a step of faith in what you believed you heard from God and got mid-way through and wanted to turn back, put the brakes on, put the car in reverse and start all over? You knew this was not the way you had envisioned your current situation. Everything you see before you tells you that somehow you’ve missed God. Fear settles in, doubt and anxiety comes knocking at your heart.

Prior to taking that step of faith, confidence in what you were doing was strong and un-quenching, yet all alone God knew exactly what trouble awaited you, what problems were in the making and He knew you would be in that place of doubt and disbelief.

In your mind, you began to question if God told you to do this, did you really hear God? For sure if God told you then there shouldn’t be any problems, no challenges, no regrets, right? On the contrary, it’s in those places that we can be assured that God has us right where He wants us. In places of trouble, in that wilderness, in that place where even His still quiet voice is not speaking. This place is where your faith will be stretched, the promises of God will be challenged or questioned. It’s in this place that going back seems like the better solution, at least that’s what your flesh wants you to believe. Clearly what’s in front is more difficult than what is behind.

First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage - By: Valerie J. Lewis-Coleman

All eyes were on Jeanine as she took slow orchestrated steps toward the altar. The beaded embellishments on her tailored gown glistened in the sunrays that beamed through the cathedral windows. Every strand of her short bob was in place, Mac makeup flawless. The elegant bouquet of fresh-cut flowers bombarded her senses. For a brief moment, she stopped, closed her eyes, inhaled. The pianist seemed to strike the keys in sync with her racing heart. She opened her eyes and gazed down the aisle to see the groom poised, ready to meet his bride. A full smile washed across her face, she steadied her breathing. As she walked toward him, acknowledging each friend and family member with a glance, slight grin and head nod, she whispered a prayer.

“Father, I thank You for this beautiful day. Everything is coming together as planned; even the weather is perfect. I ask Your grace upon this union. Let it flourish. Keep away the naysayers. Divorce is not an option as this marriage will represent Your unconditional love. I count my request as done. I just have one question: When will it be my turn as bride? I’m happy for my girl, but…I’m tired of being alone, crying myself to sleep. Smiling at every man I meet, hoping, praying that he’s the one. I love my nieces and nephews, but I’m ready to be a mother. The official has shot the gun to start the foot race and I’m stuck in the blocks watching my girlfriends run ahead with husbands in tow. Why am I still single? What is it about me that keeps me on this side of matrimony?”

As the tears flowed, Jeanine took her place, two bridesmaids from the bride. She dabbed at the tears with a monogrammed handkerchief provided by the groomsman who escorted her.

As I Look Back - by: LaDawn Michelle

When I first got clean from drugs I learned in order to positively deal with any feelings I must first identify them. Today there is a popular saying going around “I felt some type of way.” That phrase doesn’t do anything to promote healing. “I feel some type of way” does not identify a feeling. You cannot heal emotionally by identifying with “feeling some type of way.” The only thing the statement does is give a voice to the fact that there is a dysfunction in your emotions. We must be careful that we do not allow our spirits to latch onto the commonalities society gives us that do not promote good emotional health by handicapping us with catchy phrases that mean absolutely nothing once they are dissected. One of the first tools I was given when I got clean from drugs was a feeling words list. In order to embark on a journey of emotional healing, one of your first steps may be to get a feeling word list and use it.

Triumphant Victory - by: Kyna Williams

My mind had been tainted to believe that all the good things in life only happened for the pretty girls with long hair or the children with both parents in the home. I believed the world was filled with two categories of people. One category consisted of “THOSE OTHER PEOPLE” who seemingly have no problems, no hidden secrets, or shameful pasts that stripped them of the freedom to live the “Good Life.” The second category consisted of the broken souls, filled with hopelessness, like me. I was void of even the faintest perception that I would one day have the opportunity to be one of “THOSE OTHER PEOPLE.” I had decided within myself that I was damaged goods. I carried with me the weight of emotional baggage my secretive fragile past had attached to me, limiting my ability to dream of a future where I would be free to live the “Good Life” or any type of life that did not require me to mask who I felt I really was beneath the surface of my glamorous facade. If anyone were to find out who I really was beneath it all, it would certainly result in the complete ruin of the flawless public façade I had mastered displaying.

The Visionary - by: Loureva Slade

“I need you all to trust me,” Pastor Gaines said as he tensely tapped his fingers on the table, unamused by Deacon Clemmons’ humor. “And if that is too difficult, trust that God has put me over this congregation and trust that He won’t allow me to do anything that doesn’t align with His will. Can you all just do that?”

Tour hosted by Write Now Literary

 

Calling Authors, Motivational Speakers and Ministers of the Gospel…

With Volume 1 of the Love. Hope. Faith. Anthology complete, I am now in search of inspirational testimonies for Volume 2.

*Is your life a living testimony?

*Are you a new author looking for a way to break into the industry?

*Can you take a motivational speech and write something that will inspire readers?

*Has God put a burning desire to minister to His people in your heart?

Contact Vanessa Miller for submission guidelines: vanessa.praiseunlimited@gmail.com

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.