Deliah Lawrence's Blog, page 8

A Review of Snatched (Vanished Book 1) by Michael Arches

This isthe first time I’m reading anything by Michael Arches. The book cover and thetitle immediately drew me in. So, let’s meet Athena Kazan, a former Cheyene federalprosecutor who was shot in the head when she came upon a cash exchange betweenWyoming’s Attorney General and Dominique Santiago, the daughter of a drugcartel leader. Athena was maimed (wears a glass eye and walks with a limp) andis now in witness protection in Colorado because Dominique’s father has a hugebounty on her head to prevent her from testifying against his daughter. 

Fastforward and Athena (now Christina Nielsen) gets embroiled in a dangeroussituation. It all happened while she was waiting in line to use the bathroom ata discount gas station when Jackie, a pregnant woman slipped her an index card askingfor help. Jackie was with her nurse, Mia and they both got whisked away by anarmed man into a Chevy Suburban. Unable to get the feds to send help, Athenadecides to follow them (I admired her spunk). But things get dicey when she is laterkidnapped from her apartment and taken as a surrogate in the care of Misha Chekov,psychopathic boss on behalf of Mr. Langer, an insane New York billionaire. 

Overall,this was an intense read. This book had me on the edge of my seat once the fedsfinally got involved and ramped up a rescue mission of the women and younggirls who were trapped as surrogates and sex slaves. The subject matter (kidnapping)isn’t one that gets a lot of attention, so I think the author did a great jobshining some light on it and giving the storyline a good resolution. 

Nevertheless,I was a bit disappointed that Misha Chekov didn’t get a death deserving of hiscruel treatment of these women. Also, I really wanted to know who the mole inthe FBI was but everyone including Dr. Wu, the OB/GYN cut a deal to spill theirguts about the surrogacy operation. Otherwise, this was a great read! Twothumbs up! 

Rating: 4.5stars  

Some of myfavorite lines: 

     Jackieuttered a quiet gasp, looked with pleading eyes at Athena and pressed an indexcard into her free hand. That done, Jackie hurried after Mia and Rico.

     Athenafroze. What the hell was going on?

     But beforefiguring that out, she really had to relieve herself. She hurried into thebathroom and sat to do her business. Only then did she check out thethree-by-five card.

     In clearblock print, it said: Over forty women and girls—mostly pregnant—held prisoner!Five dead already. About an hour east of Durango. Call the FBI. Sheriff’soffice corrupt. PLEASE HELP US!

 

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Maurice W. Dorsey, author of So Many Angels

Author’s Bio: Maurice is the author of five books: BusinessmanFirst, Remembering Henry G. Parks, Jr., 1916-1989, Capturing theLife of a Businessman Who Was African American, A Biography, 2014; FromWhence We Come, 2017; Of Time and Spirit, a Tribute to My Father,2020; Zelma's Aphorisms, Old School Wisdom, Instructive, Inspirational,Hilarious to Outrageous, 2022; and So Many Angels, 2023.

His books are biographical innature, highlighting the lives of key protagonists in his life.  He isalso a character in each of his books.  His writing goals have been toremember, honor, appreciate and to pay tribute to others and also to untangleand make sense of the dysfunctions and neuroses of his life.

 

Prior to these writings, he workedin the public and private sectors, concluding a professional career offorty-two years.  He retired from the United States Department ofAgriculture, National Institute of Food and Agriculture. This agency providedfederal funding and program leadership for state land grant colleges anduniversities.

 

He is a graduate of the Universityof Maryland-College Park, earning a bachelor of science degree in arts andsciences (1970) and a doctorate in philosophy of education (1983).  Healso earned a master's degree in arts and science from the John HopkinsUniversity (1975) and a master's degree in education from Loyola University ofMaryland (1976).

 

He resides in Washington, DC.

 

Deliah Lawrence: Whatinspired you to write your book?

Maurice W. Dorsey:  Iwas inspired by an Oprah Winfrey's post regarding: "....surroundingyourself with positive people".

 

DL:  Is there any particularauthor or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

MWD:  Yes, MichelleObama's book: Becoming; and Augusten Burroughs book: Running withScissors.  These two authors' purity and honesty of writing stylesinfluenced me in my writing to be open and honest without hesitation but withkindness and purity.

 

DL:  What are the keys tosuccess in marketing your books?

MWD:  Showing up andbeing present in as many relevant platforms and venues as possible to advertisethe value of your work.

 

DL:  What tips would yougive to aspiring writers?

MWD:  Just write! Just get started with an idea, brainstorm, your book will take a shape of itsown.

 

DL: What are three books you willnever part with?

MWD:  The FountainHead by Ayn Rand; Caste, The Origins of Out Discontents by IsabelWilkerson, and The Razor's Edge (the story of a man who found a faith) by W. Somerset Maugham.

 

DL:  What's your favoriteline from a book?

MWD:  "The realdrawback to marriage is that it makes one unselfish.  And unselfish peopleare colourless" from The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde.

 

DL:  What are three funfacts about yourself?

MWD:  I started writingindependently at the age of 66, I have averaged one book every two years, I amso damn happy!

 

DL:  Would you like to shareand excerpt from So Many Angels?

MWD:  Sure thing! Here you go:

The dean listenedto all of my personal history and university woes and the treatment Iexperienced at the university during my freshman year.  Her view wasracism was the same as sexism; neither is an excuse for holding on to hurtsfeelings and grudges that cancel out your dreams.

 

She said, "I would never havebeen dean of this college, Maurice if I did not have to stand up tomen!"

 

DL:  What new projects areyou currently working on?

MWD:  I just completedan article for the Harford County Historical Society, In Their Own Words,Harford in the 20th Century, Stories, Maryland Celebrates Harford 250,1773-2023, a Harford Black History (featuring the Dorsey family) by Maurice W.Dorsey, Ph.D., page 41-43.  I also have two ideas for future books: onfate and endings.  Stay tuned!  

 

DL:  Where can readers learnmore about you and purchase your books?

MWD: Readers can purchase mybook on my website: http://www.mauricewdorsey.com or Google my name (Maurice W.Dorsey) in their search engine to purchase from other retailers such as Amazon,Barnes and Noble etc.

Amazon maurice-w-dorsey or Amazon.com/author/mauricedorseyInstag... Search: Maurice W.Dorsey 

DL: Thanks so much for beinghere with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you and yourwork.

 

MWD: Thanks again for theinvitation!

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman, author of The Summoning of Black Joy

Author’s Bio: Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman, Ed.D. is acultural curator with over 20 years of applied experience transforming placesinto arts and educational spaces. She is award-winning performance artistKhadijah Moon, and a multi-genre writer who is a producing playwrightand filmmaker. She is currently the 2023 Poet Laureate of Prince George'sCounty, MD. She is founder of Liberated Muse Arts Group.

 

She would love to have the superpower of invisibility.So, she could protect and navigate spaces to save people without capture.

 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired you to write your book?

Khadijah Z. Ali-Coleman: Thepoems in The Summoning of Black Joy were written over the past 10 yearswith many written during Covid-19. I perform regularly as a solo artist andpart of Liberated Muse Arts Group and have performed many of the poems over theyears. When I was appointed as Poet Laureate of Prince George’s County, Md, Ithought it was high time to have a published book that contained my poems.

Note: I will release mynext poetry book, For the Girls Who Do Too Much in December or 2024.Working on a stage presentation, “Voices of Freedom,” that my arts group,Liberated Muse, will present at the Kennedy Center in February 2024. It willhighlight the work of Fannie Lou Hamer, Ella Baker, Ida B. Wells and more.

DL: How do you handle writer’s block?

KZAC: I don’t have writer’sblock. One of the ways that I keep ideas flowing is to write regularly using myphone’s Notes app, having journals all over the house and to use my phone’svoice app to record ideas. I don’t think every idea needs to be expanded on inthat moment. I have returned to ideas to expand on them and work on completingdays later or sometimes weeks or years later. I believe that spirit will moveme to let me know when it is time to complete something. 

 

DL: What is your writingprocess? 

KZAC: For fiction writing,songwriting, screenwriting and playwriting, I am a very good extemporaneouswriter and can be given an idea and shoot something out immediately. I loveprojects like the 48-hour film project that helps build that muscle. I havegood formula that I’ve developed to tell a compelling story within a giventimeframe and include elements that are engaging. 

I love writing stories with twists,or those that feature people who aren’t typically centered in certain genres.But, with poetry, I take way more time. Poetry is much more personal. I oftenreturn again and again to a poem that wants me to release it.

 

DL: What elements doyou think make a good story?

KZAC: Elements that make agood story when writing fiction or nonfiction are consistency, realisticlanguage, dimensional characters, pacing that doesn’t lag and a hero’s journeythat is interesting. When writing poetry, I make certain considerations basedon if the piece will be performed or exist as written word. There are certainelements of alliteration and metaphor that translate better when spoken by theperformer versus when read by the reader and vice versa. The ability toevoke feeling and convey meaning through poetry is also dependent on the story.But, stories coveted through poetry aren’t necessarily as linear as theytypically are in other genres.

 

DL: What were some of thechallenges when writing this book?

KZAC: I was challenged withincluding poems in the book that showed me at my most vulnerable. I don’t likepeople in my business. It is much easier for me to write a historical poem or apolitical poem or a poem as prayer. I can easily write tribute poems. But, towrite a poem about my mother’s death, or my challenges navigating spaces as alight-skinned Black woman literally involve pushing through grief and pain.

 

DL: Is there any particularauthor or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

KZAC: I think I am like mostwomen who grew up in the 80’s and read Judy Blume as a child. I loved her booksand all of the themes she addressed. As a playwright, George C. Wolfe and hisplay The Colored Museum touched me and let me know that I would writeplays, in addition to films. The Wiz was an early film that inspired meto want to write films. I was five when it came out in the theater. I love thefilm more than the play and will cry and cheer today when watching it, justlike I did as a child. 

 

Today, I find Charlie Brooker,creator of Black Mirror, Jordan Peele and Donald Glover to be three ofmy favorite screenwriters out today. I am inspired by the fiction andnonfiction of the late great Randall Robinson, and the genius of Toni Morrison.I had to truly grow up to recognize the masterpieces that Beloved and Songof Solomon are. Poets Lucille Clifton, Gwendolyn Brooks and Langston Hughesare consistent influences and inspirations. Maurice White, the founder andcreative genius behind Earth, Wind and Fire is a songwriting and artisticinspiration. Reading his memoir now and it is deeply touching.

Note: The saying, “Everything happens for a reason, season or a lifetime” hasalways resonated with me. I read that first while in college and reading IyanlaVanzant’s book, Acts of Faith. 

 

DL: What are the keys to successin marketing your book(s)?

KZAC: I think success isrelative, but we want people to buy and read our books. I am still unsuccessfulwith convincing people to understand the importance of writing positive bookreviews on sites that sell books. Folks may post on social media or send an emailabout how important one of my books is, but I wish that they would also posttheir reviews in ways that other book buyers will see. It’s hard to have yet toask for a review from someone who has already bought your book. But, these arethe things that really make a difference for independent writers. I don’t thinkI have a handle on the keys to success on marketing. I’m still trying todetermine best routes as technology continues to expand.

 

DL: What tips wouldyou give to aspiring writers?

KZAC: I encourage allaspiring writers to find a community. There are online writing communities,in-person writing communities and writing associations.  Don’t reach outto other writers to “pick their brain.” Pay for coaching and workshops. Buildand develop your craft. Be your best champion. Don’t blame others for nothelping you in your writing career. That is your passion. You aren’t entitledto anyone being more invested in your journey than you are. 

 

DL: Would you like to share anexcerpt from Poem from The Summoning of Black Joy?

KZAC: Sure, here you go:

Like Water

Rushing

Fluid

Clear yet muddied

Quenching

Never enough

Like water

Freedom stands at arms length

Laughing out loud

At our goggles and swim caps

Our multi-colored bathing suits

Ready to swim

Ready to dive in

Ready to be dipped and saved

To be saved to be saved

Oh, Freedom

Stop laughing

Put out this fire

This unwavering burning 

Be salve and cooling 

Extinguisher of all that burns

Let us seep beneath your surface

and lay deep

Cover us in your depths

Ocean us within your waves

Stop laughing at our tears

be a balm be a balm

Of courage and conviction

Jewel us sacred stone

and carry us as treasure

to be protected

to be lightened from thisheavy 

Rescued from this continuousdrowning

Oh, Freedom

In your murky vagueness,

 

We seek your light

 

DL: Where canreaders learn more about you and purchase yourbook(s)? 

KZAC: Readers can find outmore information here:

Website: KhadijahAli-Coleman.comFacebook: Facebook.com/KhadijahOnlineInstagram: Instagram.com/KhadijahOnline

 

DL: Thanks so much for beinghere with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you andyour work.

KZAC: Thank you so much!

 

A Review of Intrigued by Z.L. Arkadie

This isthe first time I’m reading anything by Z.L. Arkadie.  So, let’s meet the Christmases, a powerful andrich family full of secrets, lies, and deep dark secrets. Bryn Christmasinvited Holly Henderson, an investigative reporter and her college roommate to writean investigative story about her family. That meant interviewing Bryn and her threebrothers: Jasper, the oldest brother; Asher, Bryn’s twin brother; and Spencer,the quintessential playboy. Then there is Randolph, their elderly father who isstashed away in his sick bed…dying and the mystery of his much younger wife Amelia’sdeath. 

The entiretime Holly was at the Christmas estate, she was immersed in bickering betweenall the siblings, outright lust from Spencer, and sexual trysts with Jasper.She couldn’t resist Jasper and although she had a story to investigate; shecouldn’t help but wonder if there was more to Jasper than being bedded by him. Hollylearned quite a few things too about the Christmas men (except for Jasper) includingtheir father and their affinity for prostitutes. Then there was a debt theirfather owed to Arthur Valentine, a former mobster, that Jasper was supposed tomake good on.   

Overall,this was a fun read. There were lots of twists and turns to this story and Iwas definitely intrigued. The characters were well developed and the dialoguewas spot on. However, I really wanted to find out what the Christmas siblingswere hiding, especially the debt owed to Arthur Valentine, and the death of AmeliaChristmas. Everything was shrouded in secrecy even Bryn’s answers to Holly’s questionswere not always straightforward. Unfortunately, the book ended in a cliffhangerand unless I read the other books in the series, I will not know how everythingshakes out. Otherwise, this was a good read! 

Rating: 3.5stars  

Some of myfavorite lines: 

           “What about your brother Jasper?” I asked.Just saying his name made my heart flutter. I wished I knew whyhe had such an effect on me.

Hereyebrows furrowed. “What about him?”

“He warnedme to stay out of your family affairs.” She twisted her mouth, showcasingenough anxiety to make me feel worried.

“Am Igoing to end up at the bottom of the ocean or something?”

“I’m notgoing to downplay his bark; it does have a bite. But Jasper is very cautiousabout who he sinks his molars into.”

 

It's A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Pamela D. Beverly, author of Treasure

Author’sBio:  Pamela D. Beverly resides in Prince George's County, Maryland,and has been writing for almost as long as she has been living. She enjoysreading, working out, watching TV, learning new languages, which she has beendoing since the pandemic, and traveling, which she HAS NOT been doing much ofsince the pandemic. This is her fourth novel. 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to write your book?

Pamela D.Beverly: I originally wrote my book under another title years ago. Iattempted to obtain an agent and was told that she didn’t feel that stronglyabout my manuscript. That angered me because I didn’t feel strongly about heropinion. It was vague, to say the least. Still, I shelved it for years as Icompleted other manuscripts. Self-publishing became available, and I began toself-publish my own novels, apart from my first novel, Relations. So,most of my books were written in different sequences from the order I wrotethem. 

DL: How doyou handle writer’s block?

PDB: SinceI consider myself a pantser and have always been a person who doesn’t like mywriting to resemble my 9-to-5 job, when I experience writer’s block, I tend to godo something else. Unless I am trying to get a book completed in a specifictimeframe. But usually when I’m writing a manuscript, I don’t hold myself to avery stringent timeline. Now when it comes to the publishing aspect of it andmishaps occurring, such as, on one occasion when I was about to publish mychildren’s book and my laptop went belly-up or another time when I wanted towrite and another one of my laptops died but I wasn’t able to take it to therepair shop because I was recovering from ankle surgery and was essentiallystuck in my house with it elevated for six months. I know, that’s not writer’sblock but the results are similar. 

DL: Whatwere some of the challenges when writing this book?

PDB: Idon’t know what it is about my laptops, but I purchased a new one late lastyear and it would not cooperate. When I say that, I mean, my internet would actup and still does and I wasn’t able to get on Google Chrome or KDP. Theinternet provider says it’s my laptop; the laptop manufacturer says it’s myconnection. At this point, I don’t know what it is. It doesn’t matter if theitem is brand-new or that you’re paying a lot for services, they aren’t likethey used to be. 

DL: Is thereany particular author or book that influenced you in any way, either growing upor as an adult?

PDB: Yes!It was S.E. Hinton’s novel, That was Then, This is Now. I loved the factthat she was a teenager when she wrote it and I believe that I was a tween whenI read it. By that time, I had been drawing cartoons and turning them intostories, so I thought if she could do it, so could I. At that time, I didn’tknow whether S.E. was a boy or a girl. I found that out years later. And ofcourse, I read her novel, The Outsiders, which was made into a movieyears later. I thought that was so cool! I still do! And I still have my oldcopy of That was Then, This is Now. As a young adult, Jackie Collins’was a big influence. I loved her novels, Chances and Lucky. Shewas a very talented writer with a sarcastic wit. 

DL: If youcould choose a superpower, what would it be?

PDB: Don’tlaugh, but the art of being able to go to sleep when I lay down, stay asleep,and get a good night’s sleep, no matter how many hours I sleep. For example, ifI am only able to sleep for four hours, I would like to wake up refreshed likesomeone that has the luxury of sleeping eight hours. I have horrible insomniaand have for many years. 

DL: If youwere hosting a dinner party, which three authors would be your dream guests andwhy?

PDB: Iwould invite John Grisham. I’ve only read one or two of his rich behind. Agirlfriend of mine buys ALL of his books, in HARDCOVER and waits for them tocome out. When she announces it, I always say, “That rich rat bastard.” Can Isay that? Lol. The same with J.K. Rowling. I would love to pick their brains tofind out how they learned how to become so successful with the writing and marketingof their books. And Claude Brown, Manchild in the Promised Land. I lovedthat book. It was such an eye-opening autobiography. I would love to just hearhim recite how he lived through that time. 

DL: What arethe keys to success in marketing your books?

PDB: I’mstill trying to figure that out. 

DL: What arethree fun facts about yourself?

PDB: Ilike to bowl, but no one else that I know ever wants to. Right now, I’mteaching myself French and Spanish. I recently spoke a little Spanish to theorder taker in McDonald’s. I like most music genres, but I love singing tocountry songs when I’m driving by myself.

  DL: Wouldyou like to share an excerpt from Treasure?

PDB: Sure!My excerpt from Treasure: I trudged through the muggy evening air towardthe staff parking lot where my car was parked. So engrossed was I in my gloomythoughts that I was nearly hit by an oncoming car. A strong arm gripped mearound the waist and snatched me out of the car’s path. There was now a pair ofarms encircling me. I turned my head, speechless with fear. 

DL: Wherecan readers learn more about you and purchase your books?

PDB: Youcan find me and my books at: 

Website: https://www.pameladbeverly.com 

Instagram:https://Instagram.com/pamela.beverly.94 

Amazon: https://Amazon.com/author/pameladbeverly 

Twitter: https://Twitter.com/writesistah 

DL: Thanksso much for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting toknow you and your work. 

PDB: Thankyou for inviting me to your blog, Deliah!

Author’sBio: Pamela D. Beverly resides in Prince George'...

Author’sBio:  Pamela D. Beverly resides in Prince George's County, Maryland,and has been writing for almost as long as she has been living. She enjoysreading, working out, watching TV, learning new languages, which she has beendoing since the pandemic, and traveling, which she HAS NOT been doing much ofsince the pandemic. This is her fourth novel. 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to write your book?

Pamela D.Beverly: I originally wrote my book under another title years ago. Iattempted to obtain an agent and was told that she didn’t feel that stronglyabout my manuscript. That angered me because I didn’t feel strongly about heropinion. It was vague, to say the least. Still, I shelved it for years as Icompleted other manuscripts. Self-publishing became available, and I began toself-publish my own novels, apart from my first novel, Relations. So,most of my books were written in different sequences from the order I wrotethem. 

DL: How doyou handle writer’s block?

PDB: SinceI consider myself a pantser and have always been a person who doesn’t like mywriting to resemble my 9-to-5 job, when I experience writer’s block, I tend to godo something else. Unless I am trying to get a book completed in a specifictimeframe. But usually when I’m writing a manuscript, I don’t hold myself to avery stringent timeline. Now when it comes to the publishing aspect of it andmishaps occurring, such as, on one occasion when I was about to publish mychildren’s book and my laptop went belly-up or another time when I wanted towrite and another one of my laptops died but I wasn’t able to take it to therepair shop because I was recovering from ankle surgery and was essentiallystuck in my house with it elevated for six months. I know, that’s not writer’sblock but the results are similar. 

DL: Whatwere some of the challenges when writing this book?

PDB: Idon’t know what it is about my laptops, but I purchased a new one late lastyear and it would not cooperate. When I say that, I mean, my internet would actup and still does and I wasn’t able to get on Google Chrome or KDP. Theinternet provider says it’s my laptop; the laptop manufacturer says it’s myconnection. At this point, I don’t know what it is. It doesn’t matter if theitem is brand-new or that you’re paying a lot for services, they aren’t likethey used to be. 

DL: Is thereany particular author or book that influenced you in any way, either growing upor as an adult?

PDB: Yes!It was S.E. Hinton’s novel, That was Then, This is Now. I loved the factthat she was a teenager when she wrote it and I believe that I was a tween whenI read it. By that time, I had been drawing cartoons and turning them intostories, so I thought if she could do it, so could I. At that time, I didn’tknow whether S.E. was a boy or a girl. I found that out years later. And ofcourse, I read her novel, The Outsiders, which was made into a movieyears later. I thought that was so cool! I still do! And I still have my oldcopy of That was Then, This is Now. As a young adult, Jackie Collins’was a big influence. I loved her novels, Chances and Lucky. Shewas a very talented writer with a sarcastic wit. 

DL: If youcould choose a superpower, what would it be?

PDB: Don’tlaugh, but the art of being able to go to sleep when I lay down, stay asleep,and get a good night’s sleep, no matter how many hours I sleep. For example, ifI am only able to sleep for four hours, I would like to wake up refreshed likesomeone that has the luxury of sleeping eight hours. I have horrible insomniaand have for many years. 

DL: If youwere hosting a dinner party, which three authors would be your dream guests andwhy?

PDB: Iwould invite John Grisham. I’ve only read one or two of his rich behind. Agirlfriend of mine buys ALL of his books, in HARDCOVER and waits for them tocome out. When she announces it, I always say, “That rich rat bastard.” Can Isay that? Lol. The same with J.K. Rowling. I would love to pick their brains tofind out how they learned how to become so successful with the writing and marketingof their books. And Claude Brown, Manchild in the Promised Land. I lovedthat book. It was such an eye-opening autobiography. I would love to just hearhim recite how he lived through that time. 

DL: What arethe keys to success in marketing your books?

PDB: I’mstill trying to figure that out. 

DL: What arethree fun facts about yourself?

PDB: Ilike to bowl, but no one else that I know ever wants to. Right now, I’mteaching myself French and Spanish. I recently spoke a little Spanish to theorder taker in McDonald’s. I like most music genres, but I love singing tocountry songs when I’m driving by myself.

  DL: Wouldyou like to share an excerpt from Treasure?

PDB: Sure!My excerpt from Treasure: I trudged through the muggy evening air towardthe staff parking lot where my car was parked. So engrossed was I in my gloomythoughts that I was nearly hit by an oncoming car. A strong arm gripped mearound the waist and snatched me out of the car’s path. There was now a pair ofarms encircling me. I turned my head, speechless with fear. 

DL: Wherecan readers learn more about you and purchase your books?

PDB: Youcan find me and my books at: 

Website: https://www.pameladbeverly.com 

Instagram:https://Instagram.com/pamela.beverly.94 

Amazon: https://Amazon.com/author/pameladbeverly 

Twitter: https://Twitter.com/writesistah 

DL: Thanksso much for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting toknow you and your work. 

PDB: Thankyou for inviting me to your blog, Deliah!

It's A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Suzette Riddick, author of Finally Yours

Author’s Bio:Suzette Riddick is awife, mother and nurse practitioner who enjoys writing about imperfect peoplefinding perfect love. She is an Amazon Best-Selling Author and featured in USA Today~ Happy Ever After. A native of Philadelphia, PA, Suzette loves to travel, readand she’s addicted to Chanel parfum.

To learn more about Suzettevisit her website at www.suzetteriddick.com. 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to write your book? 

SuzetteRiddick: Finally Yours is the third book in my Lawrence FamilySeries. I wouldn’t necessarily say I was inspired, but rather motivated tocomplete the series. Readers were interested in the oldest sister’s story. 

Synopsis:Emergency room nurse practitioner Samantha “Sammie” Lawrence gives theimpression that she always has it together. Her dominating personality hasgotten her into trouble one too many times. Especially when she crosses pathswith her father’s new business associate Dexter Davis.

Real estate developer Dexter Davis is the no nonsense type that doesn’t have aproblem with putting anyone in their place, including Samantha Lawrence. Hisconfrontation with the beautiful, abrasive young woman could be the undoing ofa profitable acquisition.

When events force Sammie and Dexter to become business partners, they learnthey have a lot in common. Similar experiences of loss and grief act as acatalyst to bring them together.

As the couple is settling into a world of happiness and devotion, a oncetrusted friend from Sammie’s past threatens to decimate their existence whenSammie’s secret comes to light.

Will Sammie and Dexter weather the storm?

 

DL: How doyou handle writer’s block?

SR: Someyears ago, I took an online course with Creative Writing. An exercise I learnedto do is to journal five to ten minutes prior to starting my writing sessions.This has helped a lot to get me into a good mental space for writing. Also, atthe end of a writing session, I’ll make bullet points for scenes in the next sceneor chapter. This is useful in giving me direction on how to move the storyforward…unless the character tells me to go another way. 

DL: What elementsdo you think make a good story?

SR: Interestingcharacters and conflict. I love characters that aren’t picture perfect and havemessy lives. To me it makes them relatable. Conflict doesn’t always have to beover the top and explosive. But just enough to show the reader how thecharacter is going to react. 

DL: Whatwere some of the challenges when writing this book?

SR: Time!Working fulltime and having a family I enjoy spending time with can be adelicate juggling act. I would have loved to dedicate more time to writing thisbook. However, spending time with family is a priority for me. Anotherchallenge was making sure details lined up with the first two books in theseries. All three stories were occurring simultaneously. 

DL: Is thereany particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing upor as an adult?

SR: FrancisRay definitely was an influence on me as I discovered Black romance authors. I enjoyedher books because they weren’t overly melodramatic with unnecessary drama tomove the story along. I’m honored I had the pleasure to meet her before shepassed away. 

DL: What wasthe best writing advice you’ve ever been given?

SR: Towrite the best story I can because it is the only thing within my control.Beverly Jenkins gave me that sage advice over a decade ago and it stillresonates with me until this day. 

DL: What tipswould you give to aspiring writers?

SR: Doyour research when it comes to things like marketing, social media presence (Iwish someone would’ve told me I didn’t have to be on EVERY platform), socialmedia etiquette, selecting an editor, never stop working on developing yourcraft, and don’t be afraid to go the indie route in publishing. 

DL: What arethree fun facts about yourself?

SR: I’madventurous when it comes to trying new foods, I’m incredibly silly, and I canspend hours looking at vintage photos. 

DL: What newprojects are you currently working on?

SR: CurrentlyI’m working on a series about three women who were somewhat villainess in myLove Conquers All Series. Each of their stories will center around them beingredeemed from past mistakes and choices that led to their downfall. 

DL: Wherecan readers learn more about you and purchase your book(s)?

SR: Readerscan get more information here:

Website: www.suzetteriddick.comAmazon AuthorPage: https://www.facebook.com/authorsuzetteriddick/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzette_riddick/Blog: Blog(suzetteriddick.com)Book Buy Links:https://amzn.to/3PrQE0s 

DL: Thanksso much for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting toknow you and your work. 

SR: Thankyou for this opportunity!

A Review of The Tycoon’s Revenge (Baby For The Billionaire Book One) by Melody Anne

This isthe first time I’m reading anything by Melody Anne. So, let’s meet Derek Titan, a billionaire andshrewd businessman who is hell bent on seeking revenge on his childhood sweetheart,Jasmine Freeman who broke his heart ten years ago. Derek grew up on the poorside of town and fell head over heels for Jasmine who was from the wealthiestfamily in town. But a misunderstanding and the cruelty of Jasmine’s father’slies sabotaged the relationship unbeknownst to Derek and Jasmine.  

For manyyears, Derek succeeded in business but held a grudge against Jasmine and herfather for destroying his father’s business venture. So when the opportunitypresented itself for a hostile takeover of Freeman Industries (now Titan Medical)due to bad management which left the stocks cheap and easy to buy up, Derekjumped at the chance to buy it. Unfortunately, he didn’t know that Jasmineworked at the company and when he laid eyes on her all his feelings from theirteenage years came to the surface. As much as he wanted to fire her, she wasgood at her job as the Human Resources director, and he kept her on. 

Whileplotting how he would seek revenge on Jasmine, he learns she has a son. When hedid the math, he realizes the boy was his son. He then plans to marry her forthe sake of their son. Derek’s father and his cousins (Ryan and Drew) were a bithesitant although Drew wants Derek to talk to Jasmine to understand whathappened at the church they were supposed to meet up at and run away.  

Overall,this was a quick read that touches on second chances at love. Derek’s wish forrevenge for how Jasmine hurt him was a huge misunderstanding spurred by Jasmine’sfather who felt Derek wasn’t good enough for his daughter. He was simply a cruelman. Anyway, the sparks and passion between Derek and Jasmine were still theredespite the years and the author did a good job at unfolding this. I also lovedthat Derek connected with his son and the universe was made right after all wasrevealed. I only wished I could see the further demise of Mr. Freeman.Otherwise, this was a good read! 

Rating: 3.5stars  

Some of myfavorite lines:  

Jasminelooked up and her eyes met Daniel’s. Her reaction wasn’t what Derek expected.Not even kind of.

“Daniel?”she gasped as he stepped a bit closer.

“Yes,Jasmine,” he answered, standing a bit stiffly between Ryan and Drew as he triedto decide what he should say next.

“Oh, mygosh,” she cried out as her eyes filled with tears and she ran to him, throwingher arms around his neck as she cried against his solid chest. “I have missedyou so much.”

Daniel’seyes connected with Derek’s as his hands came up and patted her on the back.His expression was of shock. It wasn’t the reaction any of them had expected —well, anyone except for Drew, who looked at them as if saying, See, I amright!

 

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Debbie Stokes, author of The Stranger He Knew

Author’s Bio: Debbie Stokes was bornand raised in Baltimore, Maryland. She has always had a desire to be apublished author of a fiction novel, but fear stopped her. She often shares how herstory ideas come to her in her dreams, and how she jumps up to write them down. Finally, oneday, she pushed past her fear and allowed her vision to come to past. She isnow a published author, and TheStranger He Knew is her first book. 

Debbie is a formerCEO, blogger, and interviewer for her previous women's empowerment blog called,3 Women Voices, where she shared empowering stories of how people overcame oddsto live their best lives. She is also a former contributing writer for FEMIMagazine, a cultural lifestyle magazine, where she interviewed and sharedpeople’s stories. 

When notwriting, she enjoys singing, dancing, inspiring others, and spending time withfamily. 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired you to writeyour book?

Debbie Stokes: That is a funny story.One day, I went to bed and had a dream. In my dream, this story came to me sovividly that it had me tossing and turning in my bed; so much so, that Iaccidently hit my husband and he woke me up for hitting him (LOL). At thatmoment, I jumped up, still focused on my dream keeping my eyes closed as I gotup, hoping it would help me remember it. Finally, feeling around for the penand paper next to me, I opened my eyes and quickly wrote it down with just theTV light on. Imagine that. 

The writing was so scribbled, but at least I hadwritten it down before I went back to sleep. As soon as I woke up in themorning, I rushed back to what I had written down and started adding to thestory. I was amazed at how fast the words just flowed onto the paper. Iactually wrote it in 2018, but life got in the way, and now I’m back. And thankGod, it’s finally finished. The truth be told, it is not the same book from2018. It has totally changed in tone, storyline, character’s intentions, andthe title. I call it the rebirth. (I’m smiling), With that said, I am veryproud of the book it has become. TheStranger He Knew is my baby and I can’t wait for people to read it. 

DL: How do you handle writer’s block?

DS: Writer’s block has never reallybeen an issue for me, thus far. What really helps me is to identify thecharacters in the beginning of the story. Then, as I write, I step into theirshoes. I mean I go all the way in. It’s like I have multiple personalities whenI write, and each character takes over when it’s their turn to speak or act. Itgets really fun. 

I will literally get up from my chair and act out theiractions, while allowing their voices to speak through me. My brother will watchme and just shake his head in amazement at how engaged I am at acting out thecharacters. Sometimes, I’ll get out of breath because the scenes get sointense. That has been working for me so far. 

DL: What is your writing process?

DS: In general, my writing process isthat I will come up with the gist of the story. Then, I will write down adescription of the story. Next, I create the characters and write them down. Ialways make sure that I write everything about them: their personalities, theirlikes, dislikes, flaws, what makes them tick, and their backgrounds. 

For themain characters, I will even write down a famous actor/actress who I would liketo play in the role of my character. I will also use the personalities of acombination of people that I have encountered in my life, or that I’ve seen inthe movies. That helps with giving my characters personality. Finally, I willcreate a soft outline to act as a roadmap, but many times I drift away from theoutline because once I start writing, the characters take over, so I let themtake me where they’re dying to go. And it usually works out. 

DL: What were some of the challenges whenwriting this book?

DS: Some of my challenges were tryingto fit the writing into my hectic schedule. Another one was trying to stayfocused on what I was writing because I needed complete silence and it was hardfinding a quiet place and time. Also, deciding on how deep and real I wantedthe story to be was an issue. Although I held back on a lot of cursing and sex;I kept it true to life and as relevant as I possibly could.  

DL: Is there any particular author or bookthat influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

DS: There was a nonfiction book called,Who Moved My Cheese, that I had to do a report on in college. Thislittle book (I think it had 99 pages), was so powerful and eye-opening that itmade me look at myself and life differently. It also helped me to understandchange and why it’s important to be accepting, willing, and flexible towardsit… something I had to understand to move forward towards my dream of becominga published author. 

The book was so profound that it stuck with me, and I madeit my business to tell everybody about it. I think it opens so many people’seyes when they read it. In fact, it opened my eyes so much, and was one of thereasons I made a carburetor adjustment to get serious about writing. I’m sothankful for that book. 

DL: What was the best writing advice you’veever been given?

DS: The best writing advice I rememberwas to write everything down. In other words, do a writing dump―and that’sgetting everything out of my head onto the paper. The secret is to not worryabout editing when you’re in the writing mode. If you do, it will distract thethinking curve. Save the editing for after you’re finished writing. 

Also, I wastold to know who I’m writing for? And to find someone who can keep meaccountable. Be sure to connect with other writers or authors. And be preparedfor the marketing because things are not over when you write the book; it’sonly just starting. Marketing is the real deal because no one will know I havea book out if I don’t market it. Also, be sure to put quality books out. Allthat matters. 

DL: What tips would you give to aspiringwriters?

DS: First, I would say to do it now.Don’t put it off like I did because the truth is it will never be the righttime, and things will always distract you. So, it’s important to put pen topaper, and let your story come to life. Secondly, decide what kind of book youwant to write because a dream without a vision or a plan will almost never getwritten. Thirdly, decide who you want to write for, or who your audience is(that’s so important). That will really matter when you have to market it… it’simportant to note that your book is not for everybody. Fourthly, once you knowwhat kind of book you want to write, start creating an outline and your ideafor the story. Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, work on the outline andstart gathering your thoughts and facts. And just so you know, not all peopleneed an outline, but if you do it helps, because it will bring form, focus, anddirection as you write. Next, start writing. 

Things toremember, there will be naysayers looking at you crazy and saying discouragingthings, don’t listen to them… follow your dream. Also, be sure you create thespace and the time to write. Some write a lot in a day; some write a little.The important thing is to keep writing consistently and stay true to yourwriting. Also, celebrate your small wins, and when or if you get discouraged orwriter’s block, take a breather, walk away, but don’t quit. Finish it throughthe end. And if you get stuck, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There areplenty of writing groups and information online that are good resources forwriters… use the information. Lastly, financially, be prepared to put out somemoney at the end because there are some areas you shouldn’t skimp on, likegetting a professional book cover and editing. Also, be sure you have a great titleand description. That all matters. Now go for it; you can do it.  

DL: What are three fun facts aboutyourself?

DS: Threefun facts are that I’m silly and laugh a lot. I love to eat and prefer foodover gifts. For instance, like on Valentine’s Day, don’t bring me flowers andchocolates, take me to get one of my favorite meals… a crabcake dinner. And Ilove to sing and dance but can’t do either, LOL. 

DL: What new projects are you currentlyworking on?

DS: Asof now, I’m working on book 2 for the series. Later, I hope to make book 1 intoa movie. 

DL: Where can readers learn more about youand purchase your book(s)?

DS: Readers can find more informationhere:

Website: authordebbiestokes.com – be sure tojoin my email list.Amazon AuthorPage: Debbie Stokes pageTikTok: authordebbiestokesInstagram: instagram.com/authordebbiestokesBook Buy Links:Amazon ; For autographed copies―purchase from website here . 

DL: Thanks so much for being here withus today. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you and your work.

DS: Thank you so much for theopportunity!

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Melissa Kaplan, author of The Girl Who Tried to Change History

Author’s Bio: Melissa Kaplan lives inWashington, DC, where she works in congressional advocacy on food security andhunger issues.  She studied at the LondonSchool of Economics and Political Science, earning a master’s degree inComparative Politics with a focus on Europe. She has been a passionate student of history her entire life,particularly the World War II era, which helped inspire her to write thisbook.  Melissa is also an avid travelerwho has visited over forty countries, enjoys yoga and barre classes, and iscurrently working on her second novel.   

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired you to write your book?  

Melissa Kaplan:I’ve always been fascinated by history, particularly the World War Twoera.  I started reading historicalfiction novels set during the war when I was twelve, and it’s always been myfavorite era and genre of book.  Idreamed of writing my own WW2 novel for many years, but it wasn’t until I cameup with the idea specific to this story—a young woman from the modern era whotravels back in time to attempt to change the history she’s spent a lifetimestudying—that I knew I had an idea I could take forward.  And I also lived in London for a year duringgraduate school, which deepened my interest in and appreciation of the city’swartime struggles. 

DL: What was the best writing advice you’ve ever beengiven?  

MK:I don’t know if it counts as advice I was given exactly, but one of the mostimportant lessons I learned about writing comes from Julia Cameron, whose bookson creativity and the writing process have helped me tremendously over theyears. Basically, Julia says that youcan’t wait for inspiration to strike and then begin writing. You need to show up regularly at the page andsee what comes out, and eventually that will prime the pump for your story toemerge.  She talks about hearing thestory you want to write in your head and thinking in terms of “getting it alldown” rather than “thinking it all up.” It took me a long time to understandand appreciate that advice, but over the past few years, I really have come tosee what she meant. 

DL: If you could choose a superpower, what would it beand why?  

MK:As someone who loves travel but

 isn’t a fan of long-haul flights (and theexpense they involve), I wish more than anything that I had the power toinstantly teleport myself anywhere in the world.  I’d spend every weekend on a beach in Baliand have dinner in Paris every evening, if it were that easy to get there!  I sincerely hope scientists are hard at workon this very important technology as we speak. 

DL: If you were hosting a dinner party which threeauthors would be your dream guests and why?  

MK:I love this question! I think I’d have to say F. Scott Fitzgerald, ErnestHemingway, and Margaret Atwood.  I thinkthere would be a lively conversation between the three of them as I just satback in awe listening to them describe how they wrote some of my favoriteliterature of all time.  (And I feel likeAtwood would be able to keep Hemingway in check). 

DL: What tips would you give to aspiring writers?  

MK:First of all, believe in yourself, and that you have valuable stories totell.  Don’t make excuses.  If you want to write, don’t wait.  Set aside some time every day, week, month,whatever works for you, and just start jotting your ideas down on paper.  Make writing a regular habit and keeppracticing and learning as you go.  Don’tgive up if success doesn’t come right away.  

Even if you never become a bestselling author, the simple practice ofwriting is so profound and valuable; it’s helped me through some of the mostdifficult times of my life.  Just gettingyour words on the page is such an achievement, and if you’re willing to put thetime in to create something, I believe it will reward you immensely. 

DL: What are three books you’ll never part with?  

MK:The Winds of War by Herman Wouk, The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald, andAtonement by Ian McEwan.  Yearsago, I bought a copy of The Winds of War in a used bookshop in Floridathat was actually run by Ernest Hemingway’s granddaughter! I was in awe andtold her what a fan I am of her grandfather’s work, and she knocked a dollaroff the book’s price for me, which was very nice.  Unfortunately, I read that book to shreds andhad to replace it with a newer copy, which still saddens me to this day. 

DL: What’s your favorite line from a book?  

MK:I feel like this is like being asked to choose my favorite child…there are somany lines that I love!  But I’ll go withthis quote from The Great Gatsby: 

“…for a transitory enchanted moment man must have heldhis breath in the presence of this continent, compelled into an aestheticcontemplation he neither understood nor desired, face to face for the last timein history with something commensurate to his capacity for wonder.”  

DL: What are three fun facts about yourself?  

MK:My three fun facts are:

I’ve traveled to 42 countries.I can tell you the best place to get hot chocolate in any cityI’ve ever been to.I’ve had the same best friend since I was one—and she’s aprofessional photographer who took my book’s author photo! 

DL: Would you like to share an excerpt from The Girl Who Tried to Change History?

MK:Sure, here you go:   

            ProfessorSheffield had been a fixture around Oxford University for several decadesbefore retiring fifteen years ago, and many of his former students had turnedout in the rain today to send him off on his final journey. Most of them knewlittle about his personal life, however, and were taken aback by one line inthe obituary in particular:

“Heis predeceased by his father, Randall Sheffield, his mother, Jane DaltonSheffield, his brother, Anthony Sheffield, and his wife, Vivienne Sheffield.”

“Wife?”many of the attendees asked in puzzlement, turning to one another. “I never methis wife, did you?”

“No,never. He never spoke of her either. Wonder how long ago she died?” For no onecould ever remember any middle-aged woman in sensible English tweed joiningAndrew at faculty receptions or Christmas parties. He had always been a bit ofa recluse, his private life shrouded in secrecy. For all the accomplishments ofhis impressive long life noted in the obituary, the man himself had been anenigma to most of them. 

Most,but not all. There was one person present on that cold, gray day who knew thefull story. 

            Towards theback of the crowd of mourners was a young girl, probably in her late twenties,with blond hair and blue eyes. She was dressed in funereal black, and herbearing was solemn and restrained. She had tears in her eyes, but she did notlet them fall. She was probably a former student or some distant relative—ifasked, she would have claimed to be a grandniece. Yet she watched the casketbeing lowered into the ground with a strange intensity, and the heartbrokeneyes of a young widow. 

           Few people atthe service noticed her presence, which seemed to be how she wanted it. Beforethe minister had finished intoning his remarks, she left the cemetery, walkingquickly and not looking back. “Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.” No need to staylonger once those words had been uttered.

           VivienneSheffield had been through all this before. 

Note:I’m currently working on my second novel. It’s an alternate history of the life of a very famous couple and whatit might have been like if one event in their lives had turned out differently.I can’t share much more than that right now, but I can say I’m about 200 pagesin and am absolutely loving writing this story! I hope readers will enjoy it as well.

DL: Where can readers learn more about you and purchaseyour book(s)?

MK:Readers can find out more information here:  

Website:  www.melissakaplanbooks.comAmazon Author Page: comingsoon!Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mkap59/

Blog:  www.melissakaplanbooks.com/blogBook Buy Links: Amazon.com: TheGirl Who Tried to Change History: 9781954805422: Kaplan, Melissa: Books 

DL: Thanksso much for being here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy getting toknow you and your work.

MK:Thank you!