Deliah Lawrence's Blog, page 9

A Review of Fall For Me (Everhart Brothers Book 1) by Claudia Burgoa

This isthe second book I’ve read by Claudia Burgoa and it kept my interest till thevery end. So, let’s meet Hunter Everhart, an attorney who lost his parents in thetwin towers during 9/11. He copes with social anxiety and obsessive-compulsivedisorder but thankfully he has the support of his three brothers. He meets WillowBeesley, a theater actress and is falling in love with her but she suffers fromborderline personality disorder and abandonment issues from her parents. Thankfully,she has her younger sister, Hazel and their grandfather, Grant Beesley tosupport her. 

There’s undeniablechemistry between the two of them, but until they both work out theirrespective issues they go back and forth between being lovers and being friends.They would pull away from each other but stay in touch via text messaging especiallywhen Hunter was traveling. There’s no denying that they need each other but trustingand embracing their love for each other presents a challenge. Hunter caresdeeply and is super patient but Willow needs to feel secure within herself tolet him in. 

Overall,this was a quick read that touches on some serious personal issues while theparties explore loving each other. The dialogue was realistic as well as thejourney to resolve the demons facing Hunter and Willow. I enjoyed seeing theEverhart brothers bond together as well as the sisterly love between Willow andHazel. The author did a good job showing the struggles and triumph of love. 

Two thumbsup! 

Rating: 4stars  

Some of myfavorite lines: 

“Love is ahard concept for me to grasp.”

Thecorners of her lips stretch. “Falling in love is an art. It takes time to getto know someone so deeply that you can finish their sentences or know what theyare thinking without them speaking.” She wiggles her nose. “But we had thatserendipitous moment where our souls were able to have a glimpse of ‘what if.’I think that’s what you said. No one before that day had seen me at my lowestpoint. I guess you saw the real me, and the scary part is that you liked it.”

Shetouches the base of her neck with her left hand, swallowing. “I felt that firein my soul. You created it.” She walks to me, extending her hand. I take it,feeling it. “We produce it every time we are around each other.” She pauses.“I. Love. You.” Her voice is firm, sweet, and honest. 

 

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with VM Roberts, author of Imprints of Her Decisions, I Am Spivey and Merry Molly Ambassador

Author’sBio: VM Roberts’ hobby is writing. It’s a passion she discovered infourth grade at East Suffolk Elementary School. This hobby has led topublishing fiction and non-fiction titles over the past thirteen years. She haswritten a two-set collection of her memoirs, crime thrillers, women’s fiction,young adult novels, and a series of children’s books for a total of 26 books.She’s working on a humorous romance book of short stories and a historical fictionnovel.

A Suffolk, Virginia native, Ms.Roberts resided in Trenton, New Jersey, for ten years, eventually settling inthe City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for thirty years.  These cities and their surroundings are often the settings for her writings.She currently resides in Howard County, MD.

 

Ms. Roberts is a healthcareadministrator with over thirty-five years of experience in the industry. Thisexperience has allowed her to serve as a college instructor for fifteen years.

 

She holds an MPH in Epidemiology, anMBA in Health Administration, and a BA in Journalism.

  

Deliah Lawrence: What is your writingprocess?

VM Roberts: Wow, it’scomplicated. I employ the use of technology 99% of the time. When an idea popsinto my head at odd times, I grab my phone, type it into the notes section onmy iPhone, and email it to myself.

 

Ideas are constantly popping into myhead regardless of where I am – Walmart, the doctor’s office, a road trip, inthe middle of dinner (lol). I’ve held up the line in the market a few times,jotting things down on my phone so I don’t lose my thoughts. I’ve been known sometimesto allow folks to go ahead of me.

 

I maintain a spreadsheet of names,fictitious places, career titles, etc., so I don’t have to search for what I’mlooking for when I need it. Random searching for things like this slows medown. I have over 700 first and last names in my spreadsheet. I use streetnames and names from movie characters from the 30s, 40s, and 50s. I use lastnames as first names and vice versa. As far as fictitious places-restaurants,colleges, and medical facilities-I place them in real neighborhoods &streets.

 

I Google highways, neighborhoods,towns, etc., to ensure my geographical information is correct. (Don’t you lovetechnology?)

 

About my spreadsheet, when I write, Iname each book title per tab [right now, I have ten titles I hope to completeby the end of December 2024]. This is where I outline my plots and subplots. Thesubplots allow me to keep things moving logically in the book. The order of myinformation is crucial. I can’t have Noble getting married in one chapter andtwo chapters over, she’s dating a guy from Florida (lol).  

Every adult character in my books hasa medical condition, is educated, and has a physical flaw. It’s the way of theworld. Think about the people that you know. Do you know anyone twenty-five orolder who’s not being treated for at least one medical condition? Everyone thatyou know has some type of education-whether formal or informal. Formal is morevisible. Ask a bus driver who’s been on the job for 10-15 years. They couldwrite a how-to book. Physical flaws are natural. Some are hidden with makeup,but it’s there.

 

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

VMR: Not really. I have favorite authors,though-Richard Wright, James Baldwin, August Wilson, Zora Neale Hurston, AliceWalker, James Patterson, Patricia Cornwell, David Baldacci, and my all-timefavorite-Louis L’Amour. He writes Westerns. One of these days, I’m going toattempt a Western. I love’ em (lol)

 

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

VMR: HeartZapper. If I see a person who’s selfish, unkind, inconsiderate, etc. I’d zapthem a new lifetime heart.

 

DL: If you were hosting a dinner partywhich three authors would be your dream guests and why?

VMR: DavidBaldacci (political suspense with that lawyer’s touch), James Patterson(contemporary crime writer), and Louis L’Amour (western). All three are prettyintense, detailed, and thorough writers in their genre.

 

DL: What are the keys to success in marketingyour book(s)?  

VMR: I market in the local communitieswhere I’ve lived and worked and where my family lives. Social media is good,but I rely on my old stomping grounds to get the word out-Philly, Jersey, andmy hometown-Suffolk, VA.

 

My husband is quite supportive aswell. He’s from North Jersey and always tells his family and friends when Ihave a new book released. My budget is relatively small, so I determine thebest use for my dollars.

 

Example: If youhad $250 to spend over a three-month period, which would you choose-1 Facebookad or 3 book festivals in your local communities over five months?

 

DL: What tips would you give to aspiringwriters?

VMR: I wouldgive them the following tips:

Never Stop Learning About Writing(it’s a never-ending process)Don’t (try) copy someone else’s style.Develop your own.EnrichYour Vocabulary by Reading (it really doesn’t matter what you read, as long asyou read)Research.Fiction writers do research. Contrary to what the public thinks, there arefacts in fiction writing. If your research skills are not up to par, begin todevelop them by researching things you know nothing about. 

DL: What are three fun facts aboutyourself?    

VMR: Here yougo:

I was a writer for my high schoolnewspaper.I wrote for the college paper when Iattended Mercer County Community College in Trenton, NJ. I interviewed MayaAngelou.I was a writer for the TempleUniversity (Philly) yearbook during my last two years of college.

DL: Would you like to share an excerptfrom Imprints of Her Decisions?

VMR: Sure! Here’s an excerpt (In HerCare) from Imprints of Her Decision which is a book of 10 shortstories:

 

Essex stoodup abruptly and pointed her finger at her youngest brother. “Maybe if you hadthe guts to tell her, we wouldn’t be in this predicament. So you, mister, justshut up!”

She strodeacross the room to the table in the dining room, grabbed her purse, andreturned. She stopped before Butler and pulled an envelope from a side pocketof the purse.

“Take this letter.” She thrust the envelope into the woman’s left hand.

“Our endearing mother died because of you. Your clumsiness and stupidityare beyond me. I don’t care how long you’ve been working with patients. Youshould have never tried to handle a 300-pound patient by yourself. When youcaused her to fall and hit her head, she suffered a concussion and went into acoma; days later, she died. We are suing you and the nursing care agency. Yourname is at the top of the list.”

Butler’s mouth dropped in disbelief! Thinking back, over the past year,she recalled the silent treatment, going out without her, the meetings with hissister and brother, and family functions without inviting her. All this time,her husband blamed her for his mother’s death. 

She stared at all of them. How could they? This was unreal. The fall wasan accident. The envelope clutched in her right hand, Butler left the room,tears streaming down her face. The anniversary celebration is an afterthoughtat this point.

 

Note: I AmSpivey was released May 11, 2023 and Merry Molly Ambassador was released May 16,2023.

 

DL: What new projects are youcurrently working on?

VMR: I’m working on the following projects:

Adult

A historical novel (based in Philly)A book of 10 short stories-romancehumor (based in Virginia, Philly & Jersey)Book #3 of a political series based inmy hometown (Suffolk, VA)

 

Children

Book #5 of My Life With LeahChandler SeriesGlover Cousins Book #1of a new children’s series 

I try to write 4 books a year. Thegoal is to complete 3 more books for 2023 from the ones above. I’ve startedthem already. It’s a matter of making it to the finish line with 3 of them(lol).

 

DL: Where can readers learn more aboutyou and purchase your book(s)?

VMR: Readers can find more informationhere:

Website: https://mysuffolkgirlbooks.wixsite.com/my-siteAmazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00XIIP0VK/aboutFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/VMRobertsAuthor62Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suffolkgirlauthor62/Blog: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18822204.V_M_Roberts/blog

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

VMR: Thank youvery much!

It’s A Book Thing Presents: An Interview with Michelle Paris, author of New Normal

Author’s Bio: Michelle Paris is a Maryland writer who believeslaughter can heal the heart. Her debut novel, New Normal is loosely based onher own experience as a young widow. Her personal story of overcoming grief wasfeatured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal. And her essays aboutgrief and mid-life dating have appeared in multiple editions of the ChickenSoup for the Soul inspirational book series as well as in other media outlets. 

She is a member of the Romance Writers of America and the Maryland Writer’sAssociation. Currently, Michelle is enjoying chapter two of her life with hernew husband, Kevin, who keeps her from being a cat lady but only on atechnicality.

She was recently featured andinterviewed by the various outlets below: 

Baltimore Sun 4/12/23

https://www.baltimoresun.com/maryland/howard/howard-magazine/bs-mg-ho-widow-grief-journey-20230412-zmyqfe6skngslklagay3xrtur4-story.html 

WYPR radio interview for On theRecord with Sheilah Kast, 5/2/23

https://www.wypr.org/show/on-the-record/2023-05-02/darkly-funny-debut-novel-navigates-a-new-normal

 

Widow We Do Now Podcast

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/widow-we-do-now/id1483235636?i=1000608183116

 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired youto write your book?

Michelle Paris: New Normal isloosely based on my personal experience of being widowed suddenly at the age of40. As a new widow, I searched for books and movies that dealt with the loss ofa spouse to make me feel better. I wanted characters I could relate to and seekcomfort from—ones that had endured loss and not only survived but thrived. 

Moststories with middle-aged heroines moving on were divorced, few, if any, dealtwith loss. So, I decided to turn my own personal experiences into a novel—partmemoir, part imagination--one that tells the story of loss in a heartfelt andhumorous way.

 

DL: What elements do you thinkmake a good story?

MP: In my opinion, what makesa good story is characters you can relate to and a plausible plot. I like beingso emersed in a book that I don’t want it to end, and I often think of thecharacters afterwards as if they are my friends.

 

DL: What were some of the challengeswhen writing this book?

MP: Great question. At timesit was hard to stay motivated enough to carve out time to write. For me, Ican’t force the writing process—I can’t say “I’m going to write every Sunday at1 p.m. until the book is done.” That doesn’t work for me. I tend to write bestwhen an idea comes to me, and I can flesh it out. Some of the best advice I gotearly on was to turn off the TV! As simple as that sounds, I know I waste a lotof time in front of the TV.

 

DL: If you were hosting a dinner partywhich three authors would be your dream guests and why?

MP: I would invite KristanHiggins, Jennifer Weiner and Oprah. Kristan and Jennifer because I love theirstyle and sense of humor. Oprah because, well, let’s face it, who doesn’t dreamof having dinner with Oprah. Plus, she could add New Normal to her book list.(LOL).

 

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

MP: I found thatgetting advance copies of the book to reviewers several months before therelease date was helpful in creating a buzz. I went into the launch date with15 reviews on Goodreads and social media hype. I also think because my novelhas a personal story associated with it, there was a natural hook for themedia. That helped in generating press.

 

DL: What tips would you give to aspiringwriters?

MP: The best advice I cangive aspiring writers is to believe in yourself and never give up. If you havea story to tell, write it. There will be times you’ll want to give up, but don’t.Stay the course. The other advice I would give would be to find a critiquegroup. 

I met three wonderful authors at a novel writing course at my localcommunity college. We formed a group that offered advice, encouragement andfriendship. As I mentioned earlier, I struggled to commit time to writing. Thecritique group kept me accountable.

 

DL: What are three fun factsabout yourself?

MP: Here you go:

I have four (!) cats. I know thatsounds more nuts than fun; but we took in my mother-in-law’s cats when she wentinto assisted living. I love to travel. I spent my 35thbirthday in London, my 40th birthday in Venice, and I will bespending my 60th birthday in Paris!I am really good at TriviaPursuit! 

DL: Would you like to share anexcerpt from New Normal?

MP: Sure, here is the firstfew paragraphs of New Normal.

 

Emilie tilted therearview mirror to assess the damage. It was worse than she expected. Chocolateon her chin and even her nose—it had been a bumpy ride. Using an old napkin shefound in the glovebox, she wiped away the evidence she’d scarfed down a brownieon the short drive to Viv’s. Satisfied she no longer looked like Augustus Gloopfrom Willy Wonka, she balled the napkin up and threw it at the dashboard in afailed attempt to block the blinking digital clock. Eight thirty. Sigh. Theparty began more than an hour earlier. “Just stay until the fireworks—thirtyminutes tops,” she said to herself, giving a pep talk of sorts to summon thecourage to leave the safety of her car.

 

It had been almostfive months since she began her self-imposed exile. She couldn’t hibernateforever, even if that’s what she really wanted to do. Attending Viv’s annualFourth of July party tonight would be a baby step in the right direction. Ababy step.

 

She tugged thecollar of her T-shirt to get it close to her nose, hoping to catch a trace ofhis scent—Hugo Boss cologne mixed with an occasional cigar—but only the scentof lavender fabric softener remained. Memories would have to suffice. Shethought of the last time Rob, her late husband, wore the shirt a year ago tothe day. . .

.

DL: What new projects are youcurrently working on?

MP: I recently signed acontract with Apprentice House to publish my second novel, Eat Dessert First.It’s about an overweight baker who learns in order to find love, she must firstlove herself. It supports my belief that heroines should come in all shapes andsizes. It will come out in spring of 2024.

 

DL: Where can readers learn more aboutyou and purchase your book(s)?

MP: Readers can get more information here: 

Website: www.michelleparisauthor.comAmazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/44CMbNrFacebook: michelle.paris.7399Instagram: michelle.paris.7399Book Buy Links:AmazonBarnes& NobleWalmartTargetBookshop.org 

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

MP: Thanks for theopportunity!

 

  

A Review of Above and Beyond (To Serve and Protect Book 1) by Kathryn Shay

This isthe first time I’m reading anything by Kathryn Shay and it won’t be the last. So,let’s meet Special Agent in Charge Nick Marino who is assigned to the PresidentialProtective Detail of the president of the United States, James Monroe Manwaring.The president wants Nick to go to Catasaga to protect his sister, Isabelle whohas been getting threatening notes and could be in grave danger. Nick’s nothappy about this babysitting assignment and would rather be in the “kill zone.”

When Nickmeets Isabelle, the widowed mother of six years old twin boys, Jamie and Ryan, sheis cold towards him and appears not to take seriously the danger she and herchildren are in. Nick is leery of Isabelle’s friends especially the men who aretaking an interest in her (the boys’ teacher – Trey Hanover, the local police sergeant– Burke Olsen and the doctorate student – Oliver Wilson). 

Nevertheless, whileNick is protecting Isabelle their attraction heats up after Isabelle runs intohis room in a panic because she sees someone on the dock. Nick is naked and shecouldn’t resist admiring his body and Nick sees her exposed breast under a thintank top which he couldn’t resist admiring either. 

Furthermore,to explain why Nick is there to fix a deck that doesn’t need fixing Isabelletells her friend Mary Ellen that she and Nick are dating. A good cover story thatbecomes a reality amidst the danger surrounding them. Thankfully, Nick has helpfrom his brother, Gabe another agent and his cousin, Agent Whitney Dwyer tocrack the case. 

Overall,this was a quick and intriguing read with realistic dialogue and strongmotivation. I enjoyed the storyline, especially finding out who was behind thethreatening notes. Also, I enjoyed meeting the Marino family and the bond they allshared. The author did a good job showing the struggles that Nick and Isabellewent through in fighting their love for each other when everyone around them includingthe president knew how they felt about each other. 

A must-read.Two thumbs up!

Rating: 4stars  

Some of myfavorite lines: 

“So, how far has it gone?” Mary Ellenwas leering a bit, too. “Seen him naked yet?”

Yes. “No, of course not. Some easyaffection is all.”          

“No kiss?”

Isabelle felt the flush again. She’dbeen dreaming earlier of bouts of kissing with the man. “Um, yeah, some.”

                “Do tell. Mylove life is zilch right now. I want prurient details so I can livevicariously.” 

National Poetry Month’s Feature: Poet Carolyn L. Robinson/LovePoet18

Poet’s Bio: Carolyn L. Robinson knew early on where her talents andinterests lay and has been performing on stage as well as writing since the ageof twelve.  Carolyn has published eightpoetry books to date in addition to having her poetry published in severalanthologies as well.  She is committed tokeeping the arts alive in the communities around Baltimore.  She recently started an open mic out of herhome.  It is called CJ’s Place and hasalready had some amazing artists come through and bless the mic.   

 

She is developing a new writingworkshop focused primarily on the key artists associated with the HarlemRenaissance. She is also continuing to grow her open mic and may be looking atexpanding it to a commercial property soon. 

You can find her on social media on FB under All That Drama Productions as well as Carolyn L. Robinson/Author or on IG @lovepoet18. She currently lives in Baltimore,MD.

 

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired youto be a poet?

Carolyn L. Robinson: I was an avid reader and always enjoyed readingpoetry and romantic novels.  The two kindof naturally came together.

 

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

CLR: The first two books thatreally made a difference for me was Maya Angelou’s - I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings andNtozake Shange’s – For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When theRainbow is Enough.  Maya Angelou’sbook for its rawness and honesty and I learned from Ntozake that I could saywhatever I wanted to exactly how I wanted to say it and it was okay.

 

DL: If you were hosting a dinnerparty which three poets would be your dream guests and why?

CLR: Definitely NtozakeShange because I always felt like we would be good friends if we were to evermeet.  I am sad that is no longer apossibility.  I would also like to inviteNikita Gill (alive and well! And still possible) and probably if he were alivemost definitely Langston Hughes.  I justadmire him and his writing so much.

 

DL: What are three fun factsabout yourself?

CLR: The three fun factsabout myself are:

I really do believe that I can doall things through Christ!  I live thatand believe it with my whole being! I am super creative!  My mind is always on GO regarding ideas andcoming up with strategies for doing something new.I always wished I could dance, but Idon’t have any rhythm.  Still, it didn’tstop me from trying!

DL: In celebration of NationalPoetry Month, can you share with us a few of your poems?

CLR: Sure, here you go:

 

 

Ain’t Love Grand

Ain’t love grand?

The way it leaps in bounds,

The way it overlooks imperfections,

The way it creeps into your

tiny crevices and drops bombs

that will explode at will.

 

Ain’t love grand?

The way it chases you

Runs wholeheartedly after you

Even when you treat it bad,

do it wrong

Watch it retreat-

Move away from you for years

And just when you think it’s deadand gone

it pulls a youie on your heart

And says I love you all over again.

It’s quite amazing that way.

 

Ain’t love grand?

The way it speaks without making asound

Every gesture, flutter of the eyes,

Squeeze of the hand

Nod of the head

Clearly says something precious.

 

Ain’t love grand?

How it chooses

the oddest places to gather

and summon more of itself-

At bedsides-

in churches-

At front doors -

At gravesides-

It becomes a blanket around our feet

A book of stories,

And if you wait patiently,

Sit still for just a minute,

You can feel it brush against you

Become spirit and air

And tell you that you are loved.

 

 

Choose Joy

 

I am slowly realizing what joy is.

It is a grateful heart. It is understanding what could bebut isn’t.

It is a living thing.

A thing we choose to add to our mornings,

Choose to bring to our afternoon picnics and sit at ourdinner table like a centerpiece.

It is in the smiles we give away-

In the thank you’s and please and I’m sorry’s we passaround.

It is the price we pay to take away the sadness

we feel when people hurt us or treat us badly or even whenpeople die and we can’t pretend to be happy any longer-

It is then we must choose joy;

Choose happiness in spite of what we feel and I know that’shard.

But today,

Just for this moment,

Let’s collectively choose joy.

Choose happiness.

Choose life.

The kind that bubbles over. That melts your heart. Thatbegins and ends with love.

Choose it for yourself. And let’s just see what happens.

 

Readers can learn more about me andmy work at:    

Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/41yYicxFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovepoet18/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cjsplace_18/ and https://www.instagram.com/lovepoet18/

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

CLR: Thank you!

National Poetry Month’s Feature: Poet Claire Dorsey

Poet’s Bio: Claire Dorsey studiedacting at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts. She has worked as an actress foralmost 20 years Off-Broadway and Off-Off Broadway, originating roles in Pearl Cleage's LateBus to Mecca at the Judith Anderson Theater and Diana Son's StealingFire at SoHo Rep. She appeared in an episode of the TV show TheWire. She worked as an artist-in-residence in NYC public schools andperformed her poetry at venues throughout the city. 

She collaborated with NYCphotographer Kwasi Noire to self-publish a volume of poetry entitled Rhythmsof a Life. Her work appears in volumes 1 and 2 of The Fire Inside:Collected Stories and Poems from Zora’s Den. Claire works as a proofreaderand copy editor and is the mother of one amazing daughter. 

Readers can learn more about Claireand her work at:

Facebook: Claire DorseyInstagram: kleyrmoon 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to be a poet?

Claire Dorsey: I am one of nine children. I was nicknamedIdy (short for I Declare War). I was my parents’ highly sensitive, emotionallyexpressive child—and not very tactful with it. I tended to be punished orisolated as a result. I began to guard my feelings. There were few that Itrusted to be vulnerable in that way. 

In high school, someone gifted me with ajournal, and I began writing, experimenting with poetry as an outlet for myunsavory, uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. I was encouraged by my Englishteachers and had a few poems published in the school’s art magazine, and myemotional outpourings became ART! I have been writing ever since. Combiningacting with poetry really created space for me to honor my feelings and toinspire others to find creative ways to express their own. 

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

CD: As ayoung actress in rehearsal for a performance piece at the Richard Allen Centerfor Culture and Arts in New York City, I got to hear a seasoned actress readthe poem “The Mother,” by Gwendolyn Brooks. The combination of the images inthe words and the way the actress brought the poem to life provoked anemotional response in me. I wanted my words to evoke emotions like that: 

Abortions will not let you forget

You remember the children that you didnot get …

You will never neglect or beat

Them, or silence with a sweet

You will never wind up a sucking thumb

Or scuttle off ghosts that come….

 

Amixture of lofty language and raw exposure fed me. I started using “The Mother”when I auditioned because of the range of emotions I could express in recitingit: fear, regret, guilt, grief, accusation, apology, love, surrender. I havenever known the experience of abortion, but I do know the fear and regret ofhaving hurt someone. Gwendolyn’s works have inspired me to expose feelingswithout a whole lot of explaining, allowing images to be a source to movepeople.

 

DL:What tips would you give to aspiring poets?

CD: Writedown what you’re feeling without judging it. One thing that has worked for meis to keep a journal beside my bed, and in the morning before anything, I writedown whatever comes to mind. I don’t correct the spelling or the grammar. Ijust get the thoughts on paper. Sometimes the words may begin with fragments ofa dream or something I want to happen in the day, and I see where those wordstake me. Sometimes I surprise myself. Then I go back later and read over what Iwrote. I underline images that stand out or word combinations that excite orintrigue me. 

My other advice: Write for yourself. When You write to pleaseothers, you lose your true voice. One of my greatest teachers, a singer/songwriter/musiciannamed Vinx, told me: “Everyone is not supposed to get you.” Write from yourheart, from your experiences—that is where your true voice lives. Write! Thereare people waiting to hear your words just the way that you write them. 

DL: In celebration of National PoetryMonth, can you share with us a few of your poems?

CD: Sure, here you go!

Study

I can’t imagine what enticed you totest my waters.

You avoided streams, brooks,reservoirs,

But you chose to stand on my shore,

Surveying my expanse,

Seeking your reflection on my surfaceand
Decided to explore my depths.
You immersed yourself in my currents.

You found the pull too strong and

Clung to the edges rather than beswept away.
I let you stay there, hesitant of rushing you
Allowed you to slowly construct a dam that inhibited my flow
Manipulated a stillness that stagnated

Sweetness to brine, clarity todistortion, confidence to questioning.

I couldn’t fathom that my watersdidn’t keep you buoyant,

That they threw you off balance.
You didn’t wade, or dive, or play or thrive in them
You never reveled; they never soothed.
Until that rainy day, abruptly standing,

You threw off your uneasiness like adog drying its coat,

Scrambled to the shore’s safety,

And turned to face the silent wavethat followed you in

And kissed the bank where you stood.

It shocked me to see you pull out aclear glass vial,

Skim it across my living waters
Tightly tamp down a cork,

Jail my essence and tuck it away inyour raincoat pocket.
But you shook my residue from your shoes, and never looked back.
I watched the fog eat you up,

Drain my memory of every pleasurablemoment we shared,
Realizing that I was merely an episode in a study:
You collect women’s unravelings
For years, cataloguing and filing them
Capturing them between glass slides
Viewing them under a microscope lens
Our salty tears,

The constellations they yield—
Geometric shapes of bliss or bitterness,

Grief or glory, complexity,simplicity.
You brood over your recollections,
Dissecting how in your presence our happiness always drained away
Never understanding it was your incapacity

To find comfort where your feet nevertouched the bottom.
But you notched your belt with the brine of women’s noncompliance.
You preferred instead to collect our salt, our sweet, our silt, our spirits
To season your discontent and water your dusty soul.

Copyright Claire Dorsey 2023

 

AnotherLife

IfI had my way, and I could come back as anything

Youknow what I’d be? Honey, I would be a moon

Iwould slowly make an appearance

Inchby inch until I was squarely placed in the sky—

Alittle sliver here, a little sliver there 

Untilblam! Wham bam, there I am

Myfull self. A star of the sky

ButI can testify that I’m just the front runner for the sun

Hislight makes it seems like I’m doing sumpthin

ButI’m just setting up there cool as you wish

Andwhile I’m setting up there With my legs crossed all pretty like

Watchingpeople acting a fool and howling at me like wolves in the darkness,

Iflick a finger and the waters leave the shores, baring the seas’belongings  

Honey,I’d be an inspiration—A mystery

Peopleseeing things in me that don’t exist–a face, some cheese! Please!

Youwill wake in the middle of the night, right close to dawn, 

Andmy reflection will be sprawled on your freshly mowed lawn, 

Animprint that inspires you to look upward. 

Thatwould be me you see, 

Causingpeople’s gazes to rise 

Andto mourn when I turn my back and give them black

Leaving thesky void of expansive light

Hereand now you got folks sun bathing, burning themselves to a crisp

Butas the moon, I would offer protective light, you see, healing insight, 

Theright time to plant seeds and grow something—even babies!

POW-erfulthat’s me: People taking pictures of me, Writing pretty word, 

Namingme luna, lune, or Mamma Killa

Andtelescoping me, trying to solve my mysteries, trying to understand how Ioperate

They’deven try to walk on me

Butthey wouldn’t be able to, no matter how hard they tried, 

’CauseI ain’t nobody’s doormat, baby doll

Iwould just turn and shrug them off like water on a duck’s back

Yousee, ’cause the sun may be hot, But I’m cool, I’m a healing salve—or a heel

Itall depends on the phase you find me in. 

Copyright Claire Dorsey 2022

DL: What new projects are youcurrently working on?

CD: Ihave been reading my poetry at several venues recently. Afterward, people have comeup and asked where they could get copies of the works I read. I had nothing tooffer—not even a website. I am working on a book of poetry called “My LivingWaters.” Water for me is a symbol for emotions and shows up often as a theme inmy work.

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

CD: Thank you for this opportunity!

National Poetry Month’s Feature: Poet Kyoko Heshiimu

Poet’s Bio: Kyoko Heshiimu is a poet and visual artist. She has exhibited her artwork in several galleries in NYC. In2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 she received artist grants from SIArts and showcasedher artwork both in person and online. She considers herself an activist,tackling subjects in both her artwork and poetry on topics associated withwomen's struggles and the challenges African Americans face from living in aracially divisive society. She received her BFA from Pratt Institute where shemajored in painting and received her MSEd from The College of Staten Island –certified in both childhood and early childhood education, after which shetaught at The Children's Aid Society. 

She has performed spoken word at various venues around NYC since2007. Her poem, “Port-Au-Prince,” about the devastation from the earthquake in2010, was published in Staten Island’s local magazine, The Shamboree in 2011.In 2012, WBAI 95.5's Midnight Ravers broadcast her poem, “The Color ofSuspicion,” about rape during war times.  

In 2016, she self-published her first collection of poems, Sticksand Stones. In 2017, she published her poetry collections - To Catch a Fish,Catch and Release, and Fish Stew. She also published fourchildren's books that same year - Ekky Pekky, Up on a Star, MamaMay I, and Because My Mommy Told Me So, I Know. She is a mother offour and often incorporates her experiences as a mom and teacher into her work. 

She has been a feature poet at Alor Cafe, Vox Pop, The Cup, StGeorge Day, Inspired Word at Hell Phone and Parkside Lounge, Duzers Local, HUB17'sThe Edgewater Reading Series and Black GirlsWrite, The artist and the pandemic: America unmasked, and mostrecently for Words Wine and Wings, the Literary Cypher, Mash-poet-atoes, andPoetry in the Park. 

She is currently working on collecting poems that she has writtenand read at venues around NYC since publishing her last book in 2017. She hasalso created poetry broadsides for some of them and the finished product willbe displayed virtually in June 2023.

Deliah Lawrence: What inspired you to be a poet?
Kyoko Heshiimu: My dad was a reggae artist. He would write songs forhimself and other people all the time. Music lyrics read like poetry and I havealways been inspired by his writing. 

I was very shy growing up - walked with my head downand everything. Especially didn't liked talking in public. I remember we had apoetry class for a brief time in elementary school. I loved that poetry feltsimilar to writing music lyrics. I was able to stay in my little area of myroom alone and just write lyrics and poems to express how I felt even though Iwas too shy to speak it out loud. 

DL: Is there any particular poet, author or book thatinfluenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

KH: Justin Chin's poetry book“Bite Hard,” influenced me as a writer because he wrote about subjects in avery raw manner in which I thought I was not allowed to. It gave me courage towrite about subjects others might find taboo. Before then, I was weary aboutbeing too graphic or talking about things that may be construed as political.He was not afraid to talk about his sexuality in detail or about hardships heendured in society, and I loved it. 

DL: What tips would you give to aspiring poets?

KH: Just write! Write aboutsubjects that are important to you. Write about topics you feel passionateabout. Make connections between stuff you experience and stuff going on in theworld. How it impacts you. Your perspective is unique to you and so be open tosharing how life has impacted you. Read other peoples’ work. You will learn somuch about writing structure and other ways of expressing yourself by learninghow others have tackled topics and then you can create your own voice. Keepexperiencing life so you have stuff to write about. 

DL: What are three fun facts about yourself?

KH: I am obsessed withskulls. I think they are so beautiful. Something about them makes me feelpeaceful and calm. 

I am also a visual artist. I have created art evenlonger than I have written poetry. I create work that deal with similar topicsin my poetry. Past work has focused on issues of police violence, homelessnessand endangered animals. 

I worked as an early childhood lead teacher. I wasworking at an insurance company for a decade just to pay bills, when I decidedto go back to school to get my Masters. I chose childhood education because Ienjoyed teaching my own daughter and felt that doing it as a job would be afulfilling career shift. 

DL: In celebration of National Poetry Month, can youshare with us a few of your poems?

KH: Sure, here you go: 

Tracing mylife

 

I am filled with exhaust

Fumes exerted withoutdeliberation

They are my trauma

And I am vying for clean unpollutedair

So I can talk and writeabout something “other”

Even so, I cannot escapeit

Some days, my trauma isMOM

Accompanying my voice tothe “other” side of gloom

 

My mom told me

My sad entered the roombefore me

Greeted her with loss hope

She, hiding her weak andfeeble frame

Under layers of forcedsmiles

She is in pain

I can see it in her eyes

 

Her cancer

A drumbeat

Bum

Her heartbeat

Buh dum

Her voice

Buh

Buh

Buh

 

I can’t help but try tohold onto memories

Of her in stronger light

But my own struggles donot permit this to be so

Buh dum

 

My heart paces to therhythm of hers

If we can share a heart

To keep both of us alive

I would

Every memory I hold on to

The frame of her facebetween fingertips

Boxing my mother insnapshots

 

Like how she turned ourkitchen into a darkroom

When I was little

Blacking out windows andcracks under doors

Red light

And a metronome

Tick, tick, tick, tick

               

My mother, comforted ourwoes

With the sound of her food

Digesting

Our heads listening to her

Abdominal waves

As we laid

Comforted by her stomach

Soft upon her thinstructure

 

When asked pervasively

What do you want to be

I responded in swiftadoration

“My mom”

As if you can becomeanother

Let her being immerse yoursoul

As an occupation

 

But I counter

“My mom is a job”

And no one can debate mysentiments

 

I put my memories of heron repeat

In my head so as not toforget

How her voice

Echoes my own

 

So the details of mychildhood

Do not get tarnished

By the rust of amnesia

 

Her concern for me

Exacerbates her pain

Surging through her

I lay stress at her feet

The muscles in her heart

Fighting

 

Buh dum

Buh dum

Buh dum

 

The sound of maternalpercussions

Resonating through myveins

Her DNA inherently

Cataloged in my ears

               

With yells, lullabies,giggles, and advice

Patterns and shapesscribbled on the map in my brain

               

“I wasn’t ready to let yougo..”

“You’re smart, but not toosmart”

“Kokabola”

               

She shares my breath inher sighs

My excitement in hersmiles

Praises the bravery whenI’ve ventures grounds alone

Her first born

 

Her stomach sits in knotsof muscle and worry

There is always worry inher eyes

And in her voice when shespeaks to me

Growing up has not madethis go away

Nor ease the tension inher chest when we talk

 

“I’m pregnant..”

“I got my ownapartment...”

“I’m happy..”

“I fear..”

“I worry...”

 

My mother lives in my headwhen I sort my thoughts

Rent free

And burdens me

With stacks of self doubtand

Second thoughts she hashanded down to me

When I dare to trekuncharted miles

 

She echoes in my head

Her illness slowing hercalls

Her pace filled with moreweight

Less risks

More praise to leavebehind for her children to remember

The PowersThat Could Be

by Kyoko Heshiimu

 

If I were a superhero,

I would hope to not begifted the power of strength

On surface value it soundswonderful

Crumbling walls to savepeople from fires,

Lifting cars to savesomeone caught under the bottom of its wheels

Lift criminals and prythem away from victims,

Keep me safe

 

But the power of strengthwould probably be a waste on me

When are you really goingto use it?

To fight? But I don’tfight!

Never have

Hope to never will it intopower

 

So my power would bewasted

On carrying loads oflaundry to the laundromat

Carrying groceries home

               

My inability to control myanger

Will cause dents in thefloors

Where my temper spools outonto the streets

Where my madness meetsslabs of linoleum when

I toss my anger fromchairs

So I do not have to carryit

As I will my anger awayfrom my intended target

 

Strength stands tall onface value

But would most likely makeme a weaker superhero

As I would be fearful totest its limits

Hide behind the power tohold back

 

Imagine me as a mom withthe power of strength?

I would stack bricks tobuild forts to hide in

Snowballs the size of boats

Cast them miles to createnew icebergs

 

Shake hands that breakbones of my enemies

Mask it with kindness

And pry my grip open withbroken teeth

Fractured by the falsesmiles created from holding my tongue

As I lay anger in my stare

My grin a machine

My fingers clasped likepliers

When they are stuck

 

If strength was gifted tome

I might be tempted totaunt those

Who used their strength toseize me

In the grasp of theirhands and plow into me

Use their strength tototal me to rubble in mind

As they robbed me of mypower

My physical

Would it carry my body ifI were strong?

Or would my muscles turnmy bones to jello?

 

Instead, give me the giftof flight

So I can travel for free

Feel the weightlessness ofmy body

Experience freedom

Grant me unrestricted airspace in a no fly zone

Let me live out my finaldays

Like an un-caged bird

No obligation to anyone,but me

 

Soaring oceans

So I can experience thespices and sounds of the entire earth

Use the sky like a playgroundto wade in

Dance so the cloudssurround my body like a washcloth

Moist with mist

Erasing my sins

 

I currently have four collections of poetry and fourchildren's books available on amazon. I mostly use my Instagram: dragonmomi8for my art, but I do post fliers on there with updates about feature readingsand shows I will be reading at.        

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

KH: Thank you for thisopportunity!

National Poetry Month’s Feature: Poet Virginia Davis

Poet’s Bio: Virginia is a poet, freelance writer, grant writer and reviewer,and teacher of ten-plus years. She is a self-published author of the Color of Crime series, Sheba’s Place, and Hallelujah Night. Her published poetry books include The Mending, By the Ocean, and Songs at Dawn. Virginia is also the CEOof Author Virginia Davis LLC, where she launched the I Am Queen Collection thatconsists of digital products, journals, and merchandise that place an emphasison self-love and women empowerment.

 

Virginia has a strong passion forliteracy and exposing young adults and women of color to relatable, riveting,and empowering reading content. Other than writing and creating, she enjoysspending time with her daughter, going to the beach, reading, teaching,shopping, listening to podcasts, attending open mics, and connecting with othercreatives. Virginia currently resides in the DMV area with her daughter andmother.

 

She is currently working on a children’s bookand another YA text that are both being released this summer. She is also heavilypromoting her poetry books, Songs at Dawnand By the Ocean and is activelystriving to make new connections and learn new skills to incorporate into herwriting and book promotions.

 

Deliah Lawrence: Whatinspired you to be a poet?

Virginia Davis: I would say life inspired me to be a poet. As a teenager, I wastroubled and melancholic for a long time, and I didn’t know how to expressmyself. I needed an outlet, and a safe space to feel understood.  I started journaling at fourteen, and beforeI knew it, I was filling my journal with poems and continued to do so as oftenas possible.  I then fell deeper in lovewith poetry during undergrad, when I discovered the works of Langston Hughes andother phenomenal poets of color. I’ve always endeavored to be as authenticallycreative and inspirational as my favorite poets.

DL: Is there anyparticular poet, author or book that influenced you in any way either growingup or as an adult?

VD: When I was growing up (more so in myteen years), authors and books such as FlyyGirl by Omar Tyree, God Don’t LikeUgly by Mary Monroe, and books by Eric Jerome Dickey influenced me (don’ttell my mom I was reading those, lol). It was exhilarating to read novels withcharacters who looked like me with lives and plights completely different frommine. Though those aren’t poetry books, those novels deepened my love for bothreading and writing and motivated me to one day be a storyteller withcaptivating characters and fascinating plots.

    

DL: If you were hosting adinner party, which threepoets would be your dream guests and why?

VD: If I were hosting a dinner party, mydream guests would be Nikki Giovanni, Langston Hughes, and Jacqueline Woodson.

“Ego Tripping” by Nikki Giovanni is myfavorite poem of all-time! I love the way she composed an ode to herself andcelebrated her power, beauty, and womanhood in the poem while using suchillustrative metaphors and vivid word use. In my opinion, “Ego Trippin”unapologetically embodies women empowerment, which is one of my biggestpassions.

I’m forever inspired by Langston Hughes andhis powerful and creative truth telling ability that also incorporateduplifting and brave messages to Black youth and adults.

Jacqueline Woodson’s book Brown Girl Dreaminginspired me to write my memoir (one of them at least) in poetic verse. I firstread it about five years ago and still reread it and often recommend it to mystudents. I love her storytelling ability and the way she writes poetry andprose that are both relatable to children and adults.

 

DL: In celebration ofNational Poetry Month, can you share with us a few of your poems?

VD: Yes! I’d love to share some of my poems fromBy the Ocean, which is a collectionof haikus that is dedicated to nature and its infinite source of healing andcomfort.

 

the sweet comfort of

the beach feels like home that has

been awaiting me.

the soft deep blue waves

open their arms and welcome

me back once again.

 

salty air kisses

my face. the seashells worship

my feet. i am free.

the sky turns rich gold

and offers me the sun as

reward for return.

the trees uproot and

replant as sunflowers. i

know that this is home.

 

the stars bejewel

the clouds at twilight and guide

me to victory.

close your eyes and taste

the salt in the air. then take

a deep breath. exhale.

 

the ocean has so

many lessons to give you.

i sit and take note.

under a rose on

sand, i found poetry, and

sky became my muse.

 

DL: Where can readers learn more about you and yourpoetry?

VD: Readers can learn morehere: 

Website: Authorvirginiadavis.comAmazon Author Page: Virginia’s Amazon.Facebook: Author Virginia A. DavisInstagram: Locs_and_litBlog: gingerlywritten.blogspot.com

Book Buy Links:

By the OceanSongs at DawnThe Mending          HallelujahNightSheba's PlaceColor of CrimeColor ofFreedom 

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

VD: Thanks for having me! 

National Poetry Month’s Feature: Poet Buddah Desmond

Poet’s Bio:Buddah Desmond (aka BDez) is a writer/poet, artist, singer, entrepreneur, andhealth + wellness advocate. His writing highlights the gritty side of life,while offering messages of hope, love, healing, and resilience. His writing hasappeared in numerous publications including MOOV, MUSED, MelaNation,Mixed Mag, LitMag 2020, No Line Left Behind, Osamasetorbest.com,and sana sana (vol. 1). 

He’s the author of five poetry projects, Prevail:Poems on Love, Life, and Politics (2012), Exotic Shifter (2014), FromThe Inside Out: A Poetry Collection (2020), shifting from the insideout: love poems (2022), and Everything I Miss(ed) At Home (2023). Heis a member of Gamma Xi Phi, and has served as a healing leader for theDC-based arts + faith + social justice organization, The Sanctuaries. 

He recently hada few poems featured in volume 1 of Liquid Cat Quarterly, which isavailable to purchase on Liquid Cat Books and Amazon. He’s also in the process ofselecting poems for the manuscript of his next volume of poetry tentativelytitled, Coming Up From The Downside. 

DeliahLawrence: What inspired you to be a poet?

Buddah Desmond: Aside from my love of words, I feel as if I always talkabout Maya Angelou’s work and the impact of hearing her poetry in the lategreat John Singleton’s film Poetic Justice. But prior to the influenceof her work, and the work of Langston Hughes, Paul Laurence Dunbar, NikkiGiovanni, and Sonia Sanchez (to name a few), I was greatly inspired by musicand the lyrics of R&B / Soul, Jazz, and Hip Hop. I learned early on itwasn’t just the music that can move the masses, but also the words or lyricsthat accompany the music that can move the masses. There’s power in our words.And how we wield that power matters. 

DL: If you were hosting a dinner party which three poets would be your dreamguests and why?

BD: These are always the toughest questions for me because I have somany favorite poets, lol! It’s probably no surprise that I’d pick Maya Angelou,Nikki Giovanni, and Sonia Sanchez. The opportunity to be able to connect withthem on this level would be amazing. Sharing their wisdom about the craft,their lived experiences, and their views on the world and where we’re going asa people… The conversation would be next level. And I’m quite sure the foodwould be phenomenal, too. 

DL: Whatare three fun facts about yourself?

BD: If I’mremembering correctly, I caught about 35-40 fishes when out with mygrandparents on our boat when I was about 7 years old. 

When outcrabbing with my grandparents, we caught a small diamondback terrapin turtle inthe crab net. I just had to bring the turtle home. I felt we were lucky to findthe turtle that day, so the turtle was aptly named “Lucky.” As you can imagine,turtles became my favorite reptile.

I met one of my biggest poetry inspirations, Sonia Sanchez, at a book signingin DC back when I was in 11th grade. She was promoting hercollection, Shake Loose My Skin: New and Selected Poems. I had thechance to meet her for a second time when she was in DC for the screening ofthe documentary BaddDDD Sonia Sanchez at the DC African DiasporaInternational Film Festival (ADIFF) in 2016. 

DL: Incelebration of National Poetry Month, can you share with us a few of yourpoems?

BD:Sure, here you go: 

The Words WeUsed To Say

We don’t saythe words we used to say
Unfamiliar words and phrases have been
rolling off our tongues
Words that we didn’t know before
Words that seem like a new language
Our common language has become an
uncommon commodity

There are morespaces between our words now
Gaps that extend beyond the concept of
distance and our understanding
Yet it’s those spaces that spoke the loudest—
sounding alarms that we needed to take heed                                     before what weknew, what we loved, and                                       what wecherished could be salvaged                                                    So the question now is—will we make it?                                              Will we speak the love language we used to know so well? Let’s check the spaces between the words again                          The undertones may speaksing the promise of our new day.

~ Buddah Desmond | Everything I Miss(ed) At Home (2023)


BLACK NATION

Ain’t moving
Ain’t leaving
This be foundation                                                                                                This besalvation                                                                                              My emancipation

Ain’t askingpermission
Ain’t seeking validation
This be affirmation
This be formation                                                                                                 My beautiful black nation

Ain’t lookingback
Ain’t falling back
This be present conscious, future forward
This be blessed, highly favored, and flavored
My liberation

Ain’t hating
Ain’t discriminating
This be loving
This be welcoming
My rhythm nation

Ain’t keepingthat which serves no purpose
Ain’t settling for nothing but life’s richness and goodness
This be rebirth
This be new earth
My constitution

Ain’t moving
Ain’t leaving
This be me
This be we
My bold, beautiful, proud black nation.

~ Buddah Desmond | Everything I Miss(ed) At Home (2023)

DL: Wherecan readers learn more about you and your poetry?

BD: Readerscan learn more here:

Website: https://www.buddahdesmond.comAmazon AuthorPage: https://www.amazon.com/Buddah-Desmond/e/B008FVNE1SFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuddahDesmond/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buddahdesmond/Book Buy Links:EverythingI Miss(ed) At Home – Liquid Cat Books: https://www.liquidcatbooks.com/product-page/everything-i-miss-ed-at-home Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BSJHSM8F/ Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/everything-i-miss-buddah-desmond/1142971467shiftingfrom the inside out: love poems – https://bit.ly/BDez-shifting-from-the-inside-out (free)  From The Inside Out: A Poetry Collection–https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Out-Poetry-Collection/dp/B086PNTJ2KPrevail: Poems on Life, Love, andPolitics – https://www.amazon.com/Prevail-Poems-Life-Love-Politics/dp/1475916213/ 

DL: It’sa pleasure having you here with us today. I know my readers will enjoy gettingto know you and your work.

BD: Muchgratitude again for this opportunity! 

A Review of Archibald Lawless, Anarchist at Large by Walter Mosley

I’m anavid fan of Walter Mosley’s crime fiction novels. I love the way he crafts hischaracters - flawed with some sense of justice and humanity in a world filledwith crazy twists and turns. Archibald Lawless, Anarchist at Large fitsthe mold seamlessly.

So, let’smeet Felix Orlean, a journalism student at Columbia University originally from NewOrleans whose interest has been piqued by an ad for a “scribe” to work with “A.LAWLESS IN THE TESSLA BUILDING.” When he appears to meet Archibald Lawless atten to six in the morning, he has no idea what he was getting into because Archibaldseemed like an oddball. Nevertheless, Felix’s curiosity gets the better of himand he decides to try out the gig. 

Archibaldgives Felix a piece of paper to check up on a list of people to make sure theyare fine. But when Felix starts doing so, some of them start asking lots ofquestions and he even witnesses one of them die from an alleged heart attack.But then he gets arrested on suspicion of murder and then sprung by a policecaptain who knows Archibald. Felix is still perplexed and trying to understandwhat is going on. Eventually, it’s all about stolen diamonds, suspects, andassassins. 

Overall,this was a quick and intriguing read. I thoroughly enjoyed the story,especially the quirks blended in with the intellect of Archibald (some may evencall him crazy). He’s a man of many talents, wielding and dealing with highclass and some seedy folks amidst a political background which makes youquestion whether he’s a good or bad guy. There were a lot of twists and turnsand although Felix felt uneasy and wanted to quit, he couldn’t resist stayingon the gig just to see Archibald get his Aunt Alberta out of jail. There is somuch more I would love to see happen in this novella, but it has potential toexplore the characters in another novel. 

A must-read.Two thumbs up! 

Some of myfavorite lines: 

Rating: 4stars  

“What doyou mean?” I asked. “You don’t expect that I’m going to come work for you afterwhat I’ve been through.”

“Sure Ido.”

“Why?”

“Becauseof your aunt, of course. You’ll agree to work for me for a specified amount oftime and I will agree to do what your father refused to do, free your aunt fromjail.”

The hairson the back of my neck rose up then. I hadn’t even considered this option untilthe middle of the night before. My face must have exposed my surprise.

“I needyou, Felix,” Lawless said. “You complete a faulty circuit in my head. You giveme the three years that your aunt has left on her sentence and I will make surethat she’s out of the joint by Sunday next.”