Michelle Lindo-Rice's Blog, page 29
January 15, 2017
Book Review: The Weight of Him
The Weight of Him by Ethel RohanMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
In The Weight of Him, we meet Billy and his family who is grappling with the loss of a son by suicide. We're brought into the world of an obese man who decides to make positive life changes after his son's death. His struggle is real and I enjoyed watching him overcome temptation. However, the author left many unanswered questions and perseverated on his bleak thoughts so much that I felt weighed down. It was well-written and Billy was a complex character but I think there was more that could've been delved into that would have taken this into a 5-star read. At the end, when I began to smile, see a turning point, I flipped the screen and it was over. However, I find this author intriguing and would read more works by her.
View all my reviews
About the Book
In The Weight of Him Billy Brennan undergoes an unforgettable journey in a startling attempt to resurrect his family and reignite hearts, his own most of all.
At four hundred pounds, Billy can always count on food. From his earliest memories, he has loved food's colors, textures and tastes. The way flavors go off in his mouth. How food keeps his mind still and his bad feelings quiet. Food has always made everything better, until the day Billy's beloved son Michael takes his own life.
Billy determines to make a difference in Michael's memory and undertakes a public weight-loss campaign, to raise money for suicide prevention--his first step in an ambitious plan to save himself, and to save others. However, Billy's dramatic crusade appalls his family, who want to simply try to go on, quietly, privately.
Despite his crushing detractors, Billy gains welcome allies: his community-at-large; a co-worker who lost his father to suicide; a filmmaker with his own dubious agenda; and a secret, miniature kingdom that Billy populates with the sub-quality dolls and soldiers he saves from disposal at the toy factory where he works. But it is only if Billy can confront the truth of the suffering and brokenness within and around him that he and others will be able to realize the recovery they need.
Told against the picturesque yet haunting backdrop of rural, contemporary Ireland, The Weight of Him is a big-hearted novel about loss and reliance that moves from tragedy to recrimination to what can be achieved when we take the stand of our lives.
Release Date: February 14, 2017
Purchase Your Copy
January 12, 2017
Two Days Gone Spotlight!
Praise for Two Days Gone
A January Indie Next Great Read “…a suspenseful, literary thriller that will resonate with readers long after the book is finished. A terrific choice for Dennis Lehane fans.”— Library Journal, STARRED review
“Beneath the momentum of the investigation lies a pervasive sadness that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page.”— Kirkus Reviews
“…skillfully written thriller.”— Publishers Weekly
“…impressive novel…an intriguing thriller.”— Booklist
“…this novel [will] linger in readers’ minds well after Two Days Gone.”— Shelf Awareness
“Two Days Gone is a quiet, intense, suspenseful mystery about a man who has lost everything. Rich with descriptions and atmosphere….Two Days Gone is relentless in its suspense, and the final twists in the novel are sure to not disappoint.”— Foreword Review
“An absolute gem of literary suspense, pitting ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances and told in a smooth, assured, and often haunting voice, TWO DAYS GONE is a terrific read.”—Michael Koryta, New York Times bestselling author of Those Who Wish Me Dead [image error] Title: Two Days GoneAuthor: Randall SilvisPublication Date: January 10, 2017Publisher: Sourcebooks LandmarkFormat: Trade PaperISBN: 9781492639732
Summary: The perfect family. The perfect house. The perfect life. All gone now.Thomas Huston, a beloved professor and bestselling author, is something of a local hero in the small Pennsylvania college town where he lives and teaches. So when Huston’s wife and children are found brutally murdered in their home, the community reacts with shock and anger. Huston has also mysteriously disappeared, and suddenly, the town celebrity is suspect number one. Sergeant Ryan DeMarco has secrets of his own, but he can’t believe that a man he admired, a man he had considered a friend, could be capable of such a crime. Hoping to glean clues about Huston’s mind-set, DeMarco delves into the professor’s notes on his novel-in-progress. Soon, DeMarco doesn’t know who to trust—and the more he uncovers about Huston’s secret life, the more treacherous his search becomes.
First Chapter Excerpt
The waters of Lake Wilhelm are dark and chilled. In some places, the lake is deep enough to swallow a house. In others, a body could lie just beneath the surface, tangled in the morass of weeds and water plants, and remain unseen, just another shadowy form, a captive feast for the catfish and crappie and the monster bass that will nibble away at it until the bones fall asunder and bury themselves in the silty floor.In late October, the Arctic Express begins to whisper south- eastward across the Canadian plains, driving the surface of Lake Erie into white-tipped breakers that pound the first cold breaths of winter into northwestern Pennsylvania. From now until April, sunny days are few and the spume-strewn beaches of Presque Isle empty but for misanthropic stragglers, summer shops boarded shut, golf courses as still as cemeteries, marinas stripped to their bonework of bare, splintered boards. For the next six months, the air will be gray and pricked with rain or blasted with wind-driven snow. A season of surliness prevails.Sergeant Ryan DeMarco of the Pennsylvania State Police, Troop D, Mercer County headquarters, has seen this season come and go too many times. He has seen the surliness descend into despair, the despair to acts of desperation, or, worse yet, to deliberately malicious acts, to behavior that shows no regard for the fragility of flesh, a contempt for all consequences.
He knows that on the dozen or so campuses between Erie and Pittsburgh, college students still young enough to envision a happy future will bundle up against the biting chill, but even their youth- ful souls will suffer the effects of this season of gray. By November, they will have grown annoyed with their roommates, exasperated with professors, and will miss home for the first time since September. Home is warm and bright and where the holidays are waiting. But here in Pennsylvania’s farthest northern reach, Lake Wilhelm stretches like a bony finger down a glacier-scoured valley, its waters dark with pine resin, its shores thick on all sides with two thousand acres of trees and brush and hanging vines, dense with damp shadows and nocturnal things, with bear and wildcat and coyote, with hawks that scream in the night.In these woods too, or near them, a murderer now hides, a man gone mad in the blink of an eye.The college students are anxious to go home now, home to Thanksgiving and Christmas and Hanukah, to warmth and love and light. Home to where men so respected and adored do not suddenly butcher their families and escape into the woods.The knowledge that there is a murderer in one’s midst will stagger any community, large or small. But when that murderer is one of your own, when you have trusted the education of your sons and daughters to him, when you have seen his smiling face in every bookstore in town, watched him chatting with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, felt both pride and envy in his sudden acclaim, now your chest is always heavy and you cannot seem to catch your breath. Maybe you claimed, last spring, that you played high school football with Tom Huston. Maybe you dated him half a lifetime ago, tasted his kiss, felt the heave and tremor of your bodies as you lay in the lush green of the end zone one steamy August night when love was raw and new. Last spring, you were quick to claim an old intimacy with him, so eager to catch some of his sudden, shimmering light. Now you want only to huddle indoors. You sit and stare at the window, confused by your own pale reflection.Now Claire O’Patchen Huston, one of the prettiest women in town, quietly elegant in a way no local woman could ever hope to be, lies on a table in a room at the Pennsylvania State Police forensics lab in Erie. There is the wide gape of a slash across her throat, an obscene slit that runs from the edge of her jawline to the opposite clavicle.Thomas Jr., twelve years old, he with the quickest smile and the fastest feet in sixth grade, the boy who made all the high school coaches wet their lips in anticipation, shares the chilly room with his mother. The knife that took him in his sleep laid its path low across his throat, a quick, silencing sweep with an upward turn.As for his sister, Alyssa, there are a few fourth grade girls who, a week ago, would have described her as a snob, but her best friends knew her as shy, uncertain yet of how to wear and carry and contain her burgeoning beauty. She appears to have sat up at the last instant, for the blood that spurted from her throat sprayed not only across the pillow, but also well below it, spilled down over her chest before she fell back onto her side. Did she understand the message of that gurgling gush of breath in her final moments of consciousness? Did she, as blood soaked into the faded pink flannel of her pajama shirt, lift her gaze to her father’s eyes as he leaned away from her bed?And little David Ryan Huston, asleep on his back in his crib— what dreams danced through his toddler’s brain in its last quivers of sentience? Did his father first pause to listen to the susurrus breath? Did he calm himself with its sibilance? The blade on its initial thrust missed the toddler’s heart and slid along the still-soft sternum. The second thrust found the pulsing muscle and nearly sliced it in half.The perfect family. The perfect house. The perfect life. All gone now. Snap your fingers five times, that’s how long it took. Five soft taps on the door. Five steel-edged scrapes across the tender flesh of night.
Goodreads Link:http://ow.ly/Lbgn306TTEn
Buy Links:
Amazon:http://ow.ly/dr1j306TTQ3
Barnes & Noble: http://ow.ly/eveI306TU15
IndieBound:http://ow.ly/hupQ306TU93
About the Author:Randall Silvis is the internationally acclaimed author of more than a dozen novels, one story collection, and one book of narrative nonfiction. His essays, articles, poems, and short stories have appeared in various online and print magazines. His work has been translated into ten languages. He lives in Pennsylvania.
Social Media Links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/randallsilvis
Rafflecopter Giveaway Link for 2 Copies of Two Days Gone. Runs January 10-31 (US & Canada only)http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NTRjYTdhZjdlZjllOTI4OGFhZGI5NGU3ODI3MzgxOjQ1NA==/?
A January Indie Next Great Read “…a suspenseful, literary thriller that will resonate with readers long after the book is finished. A terrific choice for Dennis Lehane fans.”— Library Journal, STARRED review
“Beneath the momentum of the investigation lies a pervasive sadness that will stick with you long after you've turned the last page.”— Kirkus Reviews
“…skillfully written thriller.”— Publishers Weekly
“…impressive novel…an intriguing thriller.”— Booklist
“…this novel [will] linger in readers’ minds well after Two Days Gone.”— Shelf Awareness
“Two Days Gone is a quiet, intense, suspenseful mystery about a man who has lost everything. Rich with descriptions and atmosphere….Two Days Gone is relentless in its suspense, and the final twists in the novel are sure to not disappoint.”— Foreword Review
“An absolute gem of literary suspense, pitting ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances and told in a smooth, assured, and often haunting voice, TWO DAYS GONE is a terrific read.”—Michael Koryta, New York Times bestselling author of Those Who Wish Me Dead [image error] Title: Two Days GoneAuthor: Randall SilvisPublication Date: January 10, 2017Publisher: Sourcebooks LandmarkFormat: Trade PaperISBN: 9781492639732
Summary: The perfect family. The perfect house. The perfect life. All gone now.Thomas Huston, a beloved professor and bestselling author, is something of a local hero in the small Pennsylvania college town where he lives and teaches. So when Huston’s wife and children are found brutally murdered in their home, the community reacts with shock and anger. Huston has also mysteriously disappeared, and suddenly, the town celebrity is suspect number one. Sergeant Ryan DeMarco has secrets of his own, but he can’t believe that a man he admired, a man he had considered a friend, could be capable of such a crime. Hoping to glean clues about Huston’s mind-set, DeMarco delves into the professor’s notes on his novel-in-progress. Soon, DeMarco doesn’t know who to trust—and the more he uncovers about Huston’s secret life, the more treacherous his search becomes.
First Chapter Excerpt
The waters of Lake Wilhelm are dark and chilled. In some places, the lake is deep enough to swallow a house. In others, a body could lie just beneath the surface, tangled in the morass of weeds and water plants, and remain unseen, just another shadowy form, a captive feast for the catfish and crappie and the monster bass that will nibble away at it until the bones fall asunder and bury themselves in the silty floor.In late October, the Arctic Express begins to whisper south- eastward across the Canadian plains, driving the surface of Lake Erie into white-tipped breakers that pound the first cold breaths of winter into northwestern Pennsylvania. From now until April, sunny days are few and the spume-strewn beaches of Presque Isle empty but for misanthropic stragglers, summer shops boarded shut, golf courses as still as cemeteries, marinas stripped to their bonework of bare, splintered boards. For the next six months, the air will be gray and pricked with rain or blasted with wind-driven snow. A season of surliness prevails.Sergeant Ryan DeMarco of the Pennsylvania State Police, Troop D, Mercer County headquarters, has seen this season come and go too many times. He has seen the surliness descend into despair, the despair to acts of desperation, or, worse yet, to deliberately malicious acts, to behavior that shows no regard for the fragility of flesh, a contempt for all consequences.
He knows that on the dozen or so campuses between Erie and Pittsburgh, college students still young enough to envision a happy future will bundle up against the biting chill, but even their youth- ful souls will suffer the effects of this season of gray. By November, they will have grown annoyed with their roommates, exasperated with professors, and will miss home for the first time since September. Home is warm and bright and where the holidays are waiting. But here in Pennsylvania’s farthest northern reach, Lake Wilhelm stretches like a bony finger down a glacier-scoured valley, its waters dark with pine resin, its shores thick on all sides with two thousand acres of trees and brush and hanging vines, dense with damp shadows and nocturnal things, with bear and wildcat and coyote, with hawks that scream in the night.In these woods too, or near them, a murderer now hides, a man gone mad in the blink of an eye.The college students are anxious to go home now, home to Thanksgiving and Christmas and Hanukah, to warmth and love and light. Home to where men so respected and adored do not suddenly butcher their families and escape into the woods.The knowledge that there is a murderer in one’s midst will stagger any community, large or small. But when that murderer is one of your own, when you have trusted the education of your sons and daughters to him, when you have seen his smiling face in every bookstore in town, watched him chatting with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, felt both pride and envy in his sudden acclaim, now your chest is always heavy and you cannot seem to catch your breath. Maybe you claimed, last spring, that you played high school football with Tom Huston. Maybe you dated him half a lifetime ago, tasted his kiss, felt the heave and tremor of your bodies as you lay in the lush green of the end zone one steamy August night when love was raw and new. Last spring, you were quick to claim an old intimacy with him, so eager to catch some of his sudden, shimmering light. Now you want only to huddle indoors. You sit and stare at the window, confused by your own pale reflection.Now Claire O’Patchen Huston, one of the prettiest women in town, quietly elegant in a way no local woman could ever hope to be, lies on a table in a room at the Pennsylvania State Police forensics lab in Erie. There is the wide gape of a slash across her throat, an obscene slit that runs from the edge of her jawline to the opposite clavicle.Thomas Jr., twelve years old, he with the quickest smile and the fastest feet in sixth grade, the boy who made all the high school coaches wet their lips in anticipation, shares the chilly room with his mother. The knife that took him in his sleep laid its path low across his throat, a quick, silencing sweep with an upward turn.As for his sister, Alyssa, there are a few fourth grade girls who, a week ago, would have described her as a snob, but her best friends knew her as shy, uncertain yet of how to wear and carry and contain her burgeoning beauty. She appears to have sat up at the last instant, for the blood that spurted from her throat sprayed not only across the pillow, but also well below it, spilled down over her chest before she fell back onto her side. Did she understand the message of that gurgling gush of breath in her final moments of consciousness? Did she, as blood soaked into the faded pink flannel of her pajama shirt, lift her gaze to her father’s eyes as he leaned away from her bed?And little David Ryan Huston, asleep on his back in his crib— what dreams danced through his toddler’s brain in its last quivers of sentience? Did his father first pause to listen to the susurrus breath? Did he calm himself with its sibilance? The blade on its initial thrust missed the toddler’s heart and slid along the still-soft sternum. The second thrust found the pulsing muscle and nearly sliced it in half.The perfect family. The perfect house. The perfect life. All gone now. Snap your fingers five times, that’s how long it took. Five soft taps on the door. Five steel-edged scrapes across the tender flesh of night.
Goodreads Link:http://ow.ly/Lbgn306TTEn
Buy Links:
Amazon:http://ow.ly/dr1j306TTQ3
Barnes & Noble: http://ow.ly/eveI306TU15
IndieBound:http://ow.ly/hupQ306TU93
About the Author:Randall Silvis is the internationally acclaimed author of more than a dozen novels, one story collection, and one book of narrative nonfiction. His essays, articles, poems, and short stories have appeared in various online and print magazines. His work has been translated into ten languages. He lives in Pennsylvania.
Social Media Links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/randallsilvis
Rafflecopter Giveaway Link for 2 Copies of Two Days Gone. Runs January 10-31 (US & Canada only)http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NTRjYTdhZjdlZjllOTI4OGFhZGI5NGU3ODI3MzgxOjQ1NA==/?
January 11, 2017
Welcome Lynn Emery of the Seducing the Pen Tours
Into The Mist by Lynn EmeryBOOK 4: LASHAUN ROUSSELLE MYSTERY SERIES
BOOK 4: LASHAUN ROUSSELLE MYSTERY SERIESChildren are missing in ever increasing numbers. LaShaun Rousselle and Deputy Chase Broussard have to make sure their child isn’t next. After a series of gruesome murders, LaShaun has to answer one critical question to stop the bloodbath: are the children victims or weapons?
LaShaun Rousselle finds herself and her young family at the center of a devious and deadly series of crimes once more. A girl goes missing, bad enough. Yet when LaShaun follows the threads, she discovers the six year old is only one of many. What’s the connection to a string of attempts to get at LaShaun’s own child, Joëlle? She must help sort through the facts and evidence to convince level-headed law officers that supernatural forces are at work. Her life and the lives of those she cherish depend on LaShaun making a way out of no way.
LaShaun Rousselle Mystery Series - A Darker Shade of Midnight is the first book in the LaShaun Rousselle paranormal mystery series. The second book is Between Dusk and Dawn. The third book is Only By Moonlight. Into The Mist is the fourth title in the LaShaun Rousselle mystery series.
Purchase Into The Mist by Lynn Emery
Book 4: LaShaun Rousselle Mystery Series
Topics: Faith, Supernatural forces, Family loyalty, Redemption, Creole and Cajun Culture
Purchase books from the LaShaun Rousselle Mystery Series
Amazon: http://goo.gl/XbzkOM
Audible: http://goo.gl/lT9aji
Nook: http://goo.gl/WKS71d
Kobo: https://goo.gl/BFYaF9
Smashwords: https://goo.gl/sgHm7uA DARKER SHADE OF MIDNIGHT - BOOK REVIEWBook Review Written by Beverly Jackson VINE VOICE
In A Darker Shade of Midnight by Lynn Emery, LaShaun Rousselle is returning home to Vermillion Parish, Louisiana because her grandmother is dying. Shortly after crossing the county line, LaShaun finds herself sitting in the sheriff's station wondering what bogus charges warranted her being detained. Yes, she has a scandalous past that caused her to leave home ten years ago, but that is the past. When the sheriff department finds nothing but a broken taillight, feisty LaShaun cannot help shaking up the sheriff and the department by issuing them a challenge, knowing some fear her voodoo powers. With that settled, LaShaun is looking forward to making peace with her grandmother, Monmon Odette, and catching up with family. Unfortunately, life will be anything but peaceful for LaShaun - greedy relatives, a sadistic ex-lover, an attraction to a deputy, an evil force and murder all come into her life. Fearing that mayhem and evil are a curse she cannot overcome, LaShaun starts to despair that she should not have returned home. Will LaShaun be able to trust her psychic powers, and accept help from unexpected sources, or will the demon win this round for her soul?
A Darker Shade of Midnight is a tale of revenge, deceit, betrayal and political corruption. This combination makes for a juicy murder and the plot serves up several victims. Drama of the family fighting among themselves adds another layer of tension and intrigue to a plot with all kinds of twists. Emery is known for her love of Louisiana, a setting she vividly brings to life in this story. I enjoyed how the paranormal elements were skillfully woven into the storyline with grace and ease, being a natural part of the locale.LaShaun is an alpha female who fights back at the least challenge, but over the course of the story she learns to accept who she is and how to accept genuine help. It is a nice touch to see her interact with the sexy deputy, Chase Broussard, as the attraction between them allows the reader a respite from all of the mayhem in the story. While fans of the author will love visiting with old friends and new readers will be entertained by the characters, they might be slightly confused by references to previously mentioned events.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy paranormal mysteries and fans of Lynn Emery. A good read for a summer night, as the forces of good and evil battle with each other.
This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. Reviewed by Beverly, APOOO Literary Book ReviewLYNN ON BAN RADIO SHOWListen to the BAN Radio Show Interview - http://tobtr.com/s/8159671
EXCERPT FROM BOOK 4: INTO THE MIST BY LYNN EMERY
“To recap your story, you went out to party when you didn’t even know where your six- year-old kid was, left your three youngest here alone, got back drunk after one in the morning, woke up, saw the writing and decided something was wrong.” Det. Anderson pressed his lips together.
Sherry flinched. “I didn’t leave until almost ten, so really it wasn’t all that long.”
“Uh-huh.” Anderson put on his sunglasses and looked away from her.
Sherry faced LaShaun. “They say you’ll know. Tell me what this says. Where’s my girl?”
“I don’t recognize these letters, Sherry,” LaShaun replied. She read regret in the woman’s eyes.
“We’ll have to do some more research,” Chase added. “Det. Anderson, take a set of pictures for the department. Work with Deputy Wilcox to scrape samples of the ink off. We’ll send it to the state police lab for analysis.”
Det. Anderson hissed low. “Right. We’ll track down who decided to be an artist in the middle of the night.”
“It wasn’t me. Tante Alice and grandmamma says it’s evil. If that’s true, then they got my Dina and no tellin’ what they done to her by now.” Sherry’s voice rose to a hysterical whine. “It don’t take long to hurt a little girl.”
At Chase’s signal, the female deputy stepped forward and took her by the arm. Their voices faded as Sherry allowed the deputy to lead her away. “C’mon, ma’am. I’ll take you over to your mama’s house like you said. Let’s pack a few things.”
LaShaun turned to Chase. “Where are the other children?”
“The middle child’s father picked him up. The other two are with Sherry’s mama. DCFS hasn’t made a decision on removing the three youngest yet.”
The Louisiana Department of Child and Family Services, notoriously understaffed and underfunded, might well be leaving the children with relatives. At least Sherry wouldn’t be left alone with them in the short-term. Chase pulled LaShaun aside so that they were across from the action in the dining area. Anderson continued taking pictures yards away. A second deputy helped him. Both carried evidence bags and collection tools.
“Your phone keeps buzzing like a trapped wasp. What’s up?” Chase said low. He watched her read text messages from Miss Rose, Justine and Pauline for several moments.
“They don’t know either, but they’re working on finding out.”
“But you said the writing is in letters.” Chase frowned at the walls.
LaShaun scrolled to the photos of the writing on her phone. She gazed at them as she talked, “Yes, an alphabet. They’re arranged to be sentences I think, not pictures telling a story. But I’m sure no authority on arcane languages. I’ve only studied a few like the Enochian Language, the Rune of Othalan, and a few others.”
“Naturally it couldn’t be something simple. No, we got the Rune of Whatsit.” Chase let go of a long sigh.
“The Rune of Whatsit?” LaShaun grinned at him.
“Do me a favor. Keep that language of the ancients talk between us for now. You know what kind of ink that is because you sniffed it.” Chase nodded toward the writing on the nearest wall.
“Yes…” LaShaun pursed her lips together. Then she cleared her throat.
“That was your cue to give me an answer, LaShaun.” Chase nudged her. When Det. Anderson glanced their way, he waved and put on a neutral expression.
“I don’t think you’re going to like the answer, babe.” LaShaun smiled at the other officers. She turned her back to them as if studying another part of the room.
“Let me think. We got a missing child, demonic scribbles on the wall, a drugged out mother, and a Cajun mafia family. Honey, I already don’t like a damn thing about this case.”
“I never said the writing was demonic or satanic, but from the smell, I’d say the writing was done with Bat’s Blood Ink.”
“Are you freakin’ kidding me?” Chase blurted out. When Anderson jerked around to stare at him. “Nothing, it’s nothing. Just keep collecting evidence.”
( Continued... )
© 2016 All rights reserved. Book 4 in the LaShaun Rousselle paranormal mystery series. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Lynn Emery. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.
Available on Kindle, Nook, Kobo, iTunes, and Smashwords
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https://www.amazon.com/Into-Mist-LaShaun-Rousselle-Mysteries/dp/0996527257
MEET THE AUTHOR
Mix knowledge of voodoo, Louisiana politics and forensic social work, and you get a snapshot of author Lynn Emery. Lynn’s recent titles include murder mysteries set in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana featuring a Creole psychic and a Cajun deputy. The titles in this series are: A Darker Shade of Midnight (#1), Between Dusk and Dawn (#2), and Only By Moonlight (#3). Into The Mist (#4) continues the harrowing case files of LaShaun Rousselle and Deputy Chase Broussard. Into the Mist will be released in fall 2016.
BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing?
I read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd when I was ten years old. I already loved reading, but that book with its twist at the end did it. I closed the book and decided I wanted to write mysteries. I didn’t even know who Agatha Christie was, or that she was a white Englishwoman who was already dead by then. I didn’t think about being a poor little black girl living in the south who couldn’t even get to a library. I didn’t consult anybody, which meant no one told me my aspiration was outlandish and impossible. I simply said, “I’m going to write a murder mystery. Life happened. High school, college and my entrance to the adult world of working nine to five. Yet twenty years later I went back to my dream and started writing again.
BPM: How did you initially break into the publishing industry? Did you ever self-publish?
I attended a writer’s conference within driving distance of my hometown. I took a fellow author’s advice to attend writing events where editors and agents would be presenters and taking appointments. The advice I didn’t take was to schedule an appointment with them, a mistake that almost cost me dearly. You see Monica Harris, the founding editor of Arabesque, was there. But I lacked confidence because I hadn’t finished my first book. I was told more than once not to expect to sell that first book. I also was told editors don’t consider, much less buy, unfinished books, certainly not from first time authors.Another published author who belonged to my RWA chapter was horrified when I told her I hadn’t scheduled to meet with Monica. I was literally the only writer of color at this conference, and Monica was hungry for submissions. A young editor, Monica had been only recently hired by Kensington Publishers and her big assignment was to launch the first, and at that time only, line of African-American romances. My work-in-progress was romantic suspense.This published author pushed me, not so gently, into approaching Monica during a break between her presentations. I went to my hotel room and quickly practiced a three to five minute pitch. I sweated during her workshop, and then screwed up the guts to follow Monica and introduce myself. In the hotel lobby I breathlessly pitched my book in the five minutes she graciously allowed me. About five or six weeks later, Monica called to offer me a contract. I sold my first book, and even though Monica knew it was unfinished. Night Magic was released in 1995.
BPM: What’s the most important quality a writer should have in your opinion?
I would have to say courage, with a capital “C”. If I hadn’t pushed up my own courage, I wouldn’t have met Monica at all at that small conference. So writers should have courage, which will lead you to another capital “C” word, confidence. Courage will give you the confidence you may lack in your developing skill as a story teller and promoter of your own work. Courage will help writers overcome the tendency to stay in their isolated, insulated little worlds. When you step out of your comfort zone, you’re willing to network with and talk to other writers and publishing professionals.
BPM: Can you share a little of your current work with us? Introduce us to your book and the characters.
Into The Mist is the fourth title in the LaShaun Rousselle mystery series set in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana. LaShaun teams up with Cajun Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Chase Broussard to solve grisly killings in this lovely bayou setting. Using her psychic abilities and Chase’s crime fighting skills, they fight human and supernatural killers.
LaShaun Rousselle led a bad girl life in her teens and twenties, using the spells Monmon Odette, her beloved grandmother, taught her for all the wrong reasons. The results led to such a horrible string of events, that she left Beau Chene, Louisiana. LaShaun moved to Los Angeles with the thought that she would never return to Louisiana, much less Beau Chene. The series opens with her arriving back because of Monmon Odette, and over the course of the first three books she builds a life that she didn’t expect to have at all, including or especially in Beau Chene.
Into The Mist opens with LaShaun being drawn into yet another of Chase’s cases, a kidnapping. As the story unfolds, the evil that that seems to have put a child’s life in danger creeps ever closer to those LaShaun loves the most. Everything LaShaun holds most dear is on the line, and she has to find answers to protect her family and the world.
BPM: Are any scenes from the book borrowed from your world or your experiences?
As a clinical social worker, I’ve been involved in child welfare cases, attended school conferences to advocate for children, and conducted abuse investigations. I also worked as a juvenile court consultant and in a psychiatric hospital. Although I do research even with my experience, a lot of the issues about children in the child welfare and special education systems come from what I’ve seen up close. The children in Into The Mist face these same challenges for a unique reason, and flaws in both systems only add to their vulnerability, as LaShaun and Chase discover.
BPM: What genre is this book? Do you write all of your books in this category? Why?
Into The Mist is a mystery with paranormal elements. I write mysteries now, though my first seven books are romantic suspense. What’s interesting is I never intended to write romance. The first writing group I found, or rather a member found me because we worked in the same building, was a local chapter of RWA (Romance Writers of America). I even told her that I wasn’t writing romance, but she said that didn’t matter. So I joined. A published author who belonged to that RWA chapter advised me to try writing romance because editors were in the market for them in a big way (this was the mid-1990s). Breaking into the mystery genre was tough, but for writers of color it was pretty much impossible back then. I felt very discouraged until she told me about romantic suspense, the subgenre I hadn’t even heard of at the time. Once I found out I could kill people, the words started flowing on my first book.
BPM: Are there any areas of your writing career that you wish you could go back and change?
I’ve learned and been blessed to see the lesson in everything that has happened in my journey, so I can’t honestly say I’d change much. Even the bad helped make me either a better writer or better professional writer in terms of the business side of publishing. In 2000, I was blessed to have BET produce a made for television movie based on my novel After All. Holly Robinson Peete starred as Michelle Toussaint, a character I created. Seeing her on the screen saying that name gave me chills. Still I couldn’t really celebrate because BET used the old publishing contract I’d signed, and they were known at the time, to pay well below the industry standard for the movie rights. That was one bitter pill to swallow. Even worse, I couldn’t stop them from making the movie. Thankfully the script, performance and production came out fine. The only thing I would change, if I could, was for myself and the other Arabesque authors to have more leverage, support or legal alternatives back then. Still, I had fun throwing a premier party at my house. I got to ride in a limo to BET studios twice for interviews. And it’s kind of fun to say, “My second novel was made into a movie.”
BPM: How may our readers follow you online?
Readers are welcome to visit my website at www.lynnemery.com. I’d love for them to sign up for my monthly newsletter while they’re there. The newsletter includes exclusive free books and other goodies available only to subscribers, in addition to fun articles. Let’s socialize!
Connect with Lynn Emery on Social Media
Tweet: @LynnEmeryWriter
Lynn Emery website: http://www.lynnemery.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lynn.emery.author
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lynnemerywriter
Pins: https://www.pinterest.com/lynnemery/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/lynnemery
BOOK 4: LASHAUN ROUSSELLE MYSTERY SERIESChildren are missing in ever increasing numbers. LaShaun Rousselle and Deputy Chase Broussard have to make sure their child isn’t next. After a series of gruesome murders, LaShaun has to answer one critical question to stop the bloodbath: are the children victims or weapons?LaShaun Rousselle finds herself and her young family at the center of a devious and deadly series of crimes once more. A girl goes missing, bad enough. Yet when LaShaun follows the threads, she discovers the six year old is only one of many. What’s the connection to a string of attempts to get at LaShaun’s own child, Joëlle? She must help sort through the facts and evidence to convince level-headed law officers that supernatural forces are at work. Her life and the lives of those she cherish depend on LaShaun making a way out of no way.
LaShaun Rousselle Mystery Series - A Darker Shade of Midnight is the first book in the LaShaun Rousselle paranormal mystery series. The second book is Between Dusk and Dawn. The third book is Only By Moonlight. Into The Mist is the fourth title in the LaShaun Rousselle mystery series.
Purchase Into The Mist by Lynn Emery
Book 4: LaShaun Rousselle Mystery Series
Topics: Faith, Supernatural forces, Family loyalty, Redemption, Creole and Cajun Culture
Purchase books from the LaShaun Rousselle Mystery Series
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Smashwords: https://goo.gl/sgHm7uA DARKER SHADE OF MIDNIGHT - BOOK REVIEWBook Review Written by Beverly Jackson VINE VOICE
In A Darker Shade of Midnight by Lynn Emery, LaShaun Rousselle is returning home to Vermillion Parish, Louisiana because her grandmother is dying. Shortly after crossing the county line, LaShaun finds herself sitting in the sheriff's station wondering what bogus charges warranted her being detained. Yes, she has a scandalous past that caused her to leave home ten years ago, but that is the past. When the sheriff department finds nothing but a broken taillight, feisty LaShaun cannot help shaking up the sheriff and the department by issuing them a challenge, knowing some fear her voodoo powers. With that settled, LaShaun is looking forward to making peace with her grandmother, Monmon Odette, and catching up with family. Unfortunately, life will be anything but peaceful for LaShaun - greedy relatives, a sadistic ex-lover, an attraction to a deputy, an evil force and murder all come into her life. Fearing that mayhem and evil are a curse she cannot overcome, LaShaun starts to despair that she should not have returned home. Will LaShaun be able to trust her psychic powers, and accept help from unexpected sources, or will the demon win this round for her soul?
A Darker Shade of Midnight is a tale of revenge, deceit, betrayal and political corruption. This combination makes for a juicy murder and the plot serves up several victims. Drama of the family fighting among themselves adds another layer of tension and intrigue to a plot with all kinds of twists. Emery is known for her love of Louisiana, a setting she vividly brings to life in this story. I enjoyed how the paranormal elements were skillfully woven into the storyline with grace and ease, being a natural part of the locale.LaShaun is an alpha female who fights back at the least challenge, but over the course of the story she learns to accept who she is and how to accept genuine help. It is a nice touch to see her interact with the sexy deputy, Chase Broussard, as the attraction between them allows the reader a respite from all of the mayhem in the story. While fans of the author will love visiting with old friends and new readers will be entertained by the characters, they might be slightly confused by references to previously mentioned events.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy paranormal mysteries and fans of Lynn Emery. A good read for a summer night, as the forces of good and evil battle with each other.
This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. Reviewed by Beverly, APOOO Literary Book ReviewLYNN ON BAN RADIO SHOWListen to the BAN Radio Show Interview - http://tobtr.com/s/8159671
EXCERPT FROM BOOK 4: INTO THE MIST BY LYNN EMERY
“To recap your story, you went out to party when you didn’t even know where your six- year-old kid was, left your three youngest here alone, got back drunk after one in the morning, woke up, saw the writing and decided something was wrong.” Det. Anderson pressed his lips together.
Sherry flinched. “I didn’t leave until almost ten, so really it wasn’t all that long.”
“Uh-huh.” Anderson put on his sunglasses and looked away from her.
Sherry faced LaShaun. “They say you’ll know. Tell me what this says. Where’s my girl?”
“I don’t recognize these letters, Sherry,” LaShaun replied. She read regret in the woman’s eyes.
“We’ll have to do some more research,” Chase added. “Det. Anderson, take a set of pictures for the department. Work with Deputy Wilcox to scrape samples of the ink off. We’ll send it to the state police lab for analysis.”
Det. Anderson hissed low. “Right. We’ll track down who decided to be an artist in the middle of the night.”
“It wasn’t me. Tante Alice and grandmamma says it’s evil. If that’s true, then they got my Dina and no tellin’ what they done to her by now.” Sherry’s voice rose to a hysterical whine. “It don’t take long to hurt a little girl.”
At Chase’s signal, the female deputy stepped forward and took her by the arm. Their voices faded as Sherry allowed the deputy to lead her away. “C’mon, ma’am. I’ll take you over to your mama’s house like you said. Let’s pack a few things.”
LaShaun turned to Chase. “Where are the other children?”
“The middle child’s father picked him up. The other two are with Sherry’s mama. DCFS hasn’t made a decision on removing the three youngest yet.”
The Louisiana Department of Child and Family Services, notoriously understaffed and underfunded, might well be leaving the children with relatives. At least Sherry wouldn’t be left alone with them in the short-term. Chase pulled LaShaun aside so that they were across from the action in the dining area. Anderson continued taking pictures yards away. A second deputy helped him. Both carried evidence bags and collection tools.
“Your phone keeps buzzing like a trapped wasp. What’s up?” Chase said low. He watched her read text messages from Miss Rose, Justine and Pauline for several moments.
“They don’t know either, but they’re working on finding out.”
“But you said the writing is in letters.” Chase frowned at the walls.
LaShaun scrolled to the photos of the writing on her phone. She gazed at them as she talked, “Yes, an alphabet. They’re arranged to be sentences I think, not pictures telling a story. But I’m sure no authority on arcane languages. I’ve only studied a few like the Enochian Language, the Rune of Othalan, and a few others.”
“Naturally it couldn’t be something simple. No, we got the Rune of Whatsit.” Chase let go of a long sigh.
“The Rune of Whatsit?” LaShaun grinned at him.
“Do me a favor. Keep that language of the ancients talk between us for now. You know what kind of ink that is because you sniffed it.” Chase nodded toward the writing on the nearest wall.
“Yes…” LaShaun pursed her lips together. Then she cleared her throat.
“That was your cue to give me an answer, LaShaun.” Chase nudged her. When Det. Anderson glanced their way, he waved and put on a neutral expression.
“I don’t think you’re going to like the answer, babe.” LaShaun smiled at the other officers. She turned her back to them as if studying another part of the room.
“Let me think. We got a missing child, demonic scribbles on the wall, a drugged out mother, and a Cajun mafia family. Honey, I already don’t like a damn thing about this case.”
“I never said the writing was demonic or satanic, but from the smell, I’d say the writing was done with Bat’s Blood Ink.”
“Are you freakin’ kidding me?” Chase blurted out. When Anderson jerked around to stare at him. “Nothing, it’s nothing. Just keep collecting evidence.”
( Continued... )
© 2016 All rights reserved. Book 4 in the LaShaun Rousselle paranormal mystery series. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Lynn Emery. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.
Available on Kindle, Nook, Kobo, iTunes, and Smashwords
Purchase Your Copies & Send One to a Friend
https://www.amazon.com/Into-Mist-LaShaun-Rousselle-Mysteries/dp/0996527257
MEET THE AUTHORMix knowledge of voodoo, Louisiana politics and forensic social work, and you get a snapshot of author Lynn Emery. Lynn’s recent titles include murder mysteries set in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana featuring a Creole psychic and a Cajun deputy. The titles in this series are: A Darker Shade of Midnight (#1), Between Dusk and Dawn (#2), and Only By Moonlight (#3). Into The Mist (#4) continues the harrowing case files of LaShaun Rousselle and Deputy Chase Broussard. Into the Mist will be released in fall 2016.
BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing?
I read The Murder of Roger Ackroyd when I was ten years old. I already loved reading, but that book with its twist at the end did it. I closed the book and decided I wanted to write mysteries. I didn’t even know who Agatha Christie was, or that she was a white Englishwoman who was already dead by then. I didn’t think about being a poor little black girl living in the south who couldn’t even get to a library. I didn’t consult anybody, which meant no one told me my aspiration was outlandish and impossible. I simply said, “I’m going to write a murder mystery. Life happened. High school, college and my entrance to the adult world of working nine to five. Yet twenty years later I went back to my dream and started writing again.
BPM: How did you initially break into the publishing industry? Did you ever self-publish?
I attended a writer’s conference within driving distance of my hometown. I took a fellow author’s advice to attend writing events where editors and agents would be presenters and taking appointments. The advice I didn’t take was to schedule an appointment with them, a mistake that almost cost me dearly. You see Monica Harris, the founding editor of Arabesque, was there. But I lacked confidence because I hadn’t finished my first book. I was told more than once not to expect to sell that first book. I also was told editors don’t consider, much less buy, unfinished books, certainly not from first time authors.Another published author who belonged to my RWA chapter was horrified when I told her I hadn’t scheduled to meet with Monica. I was literally the only writer of color at this conference, and Monica was hungry for submissions. A young editor, Monica had been only recently hired by Kensington Publishers and her big assignment was to launch the first, and at that time only, line of African-American romances. My work-in-progress was romantic suspense.This published author pushed me, not so gently, into approaching Monica during a break between her presentations. I went to my hotel room and quickly practiced a three to five minute pitch. I sweated during her workshop, and then screwed up the guts to follow Monica and introduce myself. In the hotel lobby I breathlessly pitched my book in the five minutes she graciously allowed me. About five or six weeks later, Monica called to offer me a contract. I sold my first book, and even though Monica knew it was unfinished. Night Magic was released in 1995.
BPM: What’s the most important quality a writer should have in your opinion?
I would have to say courage, with a capital “C”. If I hadn’t pushed up my own courage, I wouldn’t have met Monica at all at that small conference. So writers should have courage, which will lead you to another capital “C” word, confidence. Courage will give you the confidence you may lack in your developing skill as a story teller and promoter of your own work. Courage will help writers overcome the tendency to stay in their isolated, insulated little worlds. When you step out of your comfort zone, you’re willing to network with and talk to other writers and publishing professionals.
BPM: Can you share a little of your current work with us? Introduce us to your book and the characters.
Into The Mist is the fourth title in the LaShaun Rousselle mystery series set in Vermilion Parish, Louisiana. LaShaun teams up with Cajun Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Chase Broussard to solve grisly killings in this lovely bayou setting. Using her psychic abilities and Chase’s crime fighting skills, they fight human and supernatural killers.
LaShaun Rousselle led a bad girl life in her teens and twenties, using the spells Monmon Odette, her beloved grandmother, taught her for all the wrong reasons. The results led to such a horrible string of events, that she left Beau Chene, Louisiana. LaShaun moved to Los Angeles with the thought that she would never return to Louisiana, much less Beau Chene. The series opens with her arriving back because of Monmon Odette, and over the course of the first three books she builds a life that she didn’t expect to have at all, including or especially in Beau Chene.
Into The Mist opens with LaShaun being drawn into yet another of Chase’s cases, a kidnapping. As the story unfolds, the evil that that seems to have put a child’s life in danger creeps ever closer to those LaShaun loves the most. Everything LaShaun holds most dear is on the line, and she has to find answers to protect her family and the world.
BPM: Are any scenes from the book borrowed from your world or your experiences?
As a clinical social worker, I’ve been involved in child welfare cases, attended school conferences to advocate for children, and conducted abuse investigations. I also worked as a juvenile court consultant and in a psychiatric hospital. Although I do research even with my experience, a lot of the issues about children in the child welfare and special education systems come from what I’ve seen up close. The children in Into The Mist face these same challenges for a unique reason, and flaws in both systems only add to their vulnerability, as LaShaun and Chase discover.
BPM: What genre is this book? Do you write all of your books in this category? Why?
Into The Mist is a mystery with paranormal elements. I write mysteries now, though my first seven books are romantic suspense. What’s interesting is I never intended to write romance. The first writing group I found, or rather a member found me because we worked in the same building, was a local chapter of RWA (Romance Writers of America). I even told her that I wasn’t writing romance, but she said that didn’t matter. So I joined. A published author who belonged to that RWA chapter advised me to try writing romance because editors were in the market for them in a big way (this was the mid-1990s). Breaking into the mystery genre was tough, but for writers of color it was pretty much impossible back then. I felt very discouraged until she told me about romantic suspense, the subgenre I hadn’t even heard of at the time. Once I found out I could kill people, the words started flowing on my first book.
BPM: Are there any areas of your writing career that you wish you could go back and change?
I’ve learned and been blessed to see the lesson in everything that has happened in my journey, so I can’t honestly say I’d change much. Even the bad helped make me either a better writer or better professional writer in terms of the business side of publishing. In 2000, I was blessed to have BET produce a made for television movie based on my novel After All. Holly Robinson Peete starred as Michelle Toussaint, a character I created. Seeing her on the screen saying that name gave me chills. Still I couldn’t really celebrate because BET used the old publishing contract I’d signed, and they were known at the time, to pay well below the industry standard for the movie rights. That was one bitter pill to swallow. Even worse, I couldn’t stop them from making the movie. Thankfully the script, performance and production came out fine. The only thing I would change, if I could, was for myself and the other Arabesque authors to have more leverage, support or legal alternatives back then. Still, I had fun throwing a premier party at my house. I got to ride in a limo to BET studios twice for interviews. And it’s kind of fun to say, “My second novel was made into a movie.”
BPM: How may our readers follow you online?
Readers are welcome to visit my website at www.lynnemery.com. I’d love for them to sign up for my monthly newsletter while they’re there. The newsletter includes exclusive free books and other goodies available only to subscribers, in addition to fun articles. Let’s socialize!
Connect with Lynn Emery on Social Media
Tweet: @LynnEmeryWriter
Lynn Emery website: http://www.lynnemery.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lynn.emery.author
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lynnemerywriter
Pins: https://www.pinterest.com/lynnemery/
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/lynnemery
January 8, 2017
Welcome Angie Ransome Jones of the Seducing the Pen Tour
PATH TO PEACEA GUIDE TO MANAGING LIFE AFTER LOSING A LOVED ONEANGIE RANSOME JONES
Path to Peace: A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved Oneby Angie Ransome-Jones
Death is difficult but inevitable. Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!
Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One, chronicles one daughter’s journey of finding peace after the devastating loss of her father. In the midst of grieving, Angie Ransome-Jones was suddenly faced with laying her father to rest, settling his financial affairs and reconciling her unresolved feelings over the loss of her mother.
After learning what she refers to as “the process,” it’s now her mission to share practical steps to picking up the pieces and finding peace, after the loss of a loved one. In this book, Angie provides a comprehensive guide that yields advice from an attorney, financial advisor and grief counselor.
“Path to Peace” is one daughter’s story of reclaiming her life, realizing her purpose and finding inner peace along the way.
What People Are Saying About Path to Peace
Path to Peace is a wonderful book used as a source to go to time and time again if you are going through the process of grieving after losing someone. It is well researched and written, and is easy to absorb all while letting the reader take what they need at different times during the grieving process.
It does a comprehensive job of touching on the many types of loss, and offers helpful suggestions for coping and moving forward. From the moment I first started reading it, I knew the perspective is coming from well-informed person who has been through the grieving process.
I highly recommend buying it when you or someone you know is faced with the death of a loved one as it guides you forward with practical guides on what to do as well as emotional help. Give the book to someone you know who needs it. You will be able to help them when they need it most on their own time. By owning the book yourself, you will be able to understand and anticipate the needs of the people you care for who may need your help during a difficult time. This is simply an amazing, well-written book that exceeded my expectations.
“This book is a compassionate and poignant reflection of the premise…everyone grieves differently. It is simply heart-warming!”
~Dionne Anglin, News Reporter, KDFW-TV
This guide provides practical tools to manage the business affairs after losing a loved one.”
~Victor McGlothin, Essence Magazine Bestselling Author
“What an incredible show of strength and courage in the middle of grief and loss…..Angie presents a very practical roadmap for all of us to follow!”
~Dr. Tracey Brown, Author/Speaker/Counselor Supervisor-Dallas ISD
EXCERPT CHAPTER ONE
Until a year ago, I had always equated Election Day with colorful yard signs, cooler weather and National Angie Ransome-Jones Day, also known as my birthday. Now, I equate it to my Daddy’s passing. It was a normal day, just like any other for me. I ran my mouth with Evelyn while trying to get some semblance of work done at home. The day before, I worked an election with my good friend, Janis, like I had for the past few years and was trying to play catch up like I always do, whenever I take off from work. Coming off of a great weekend, I was on cloud 21!
Dad came down to celebrate my 44TH birthday and I basked in the possibilities of another year as Myles, my son, prepared for his first semester of college. There were so many things to be thankful for. Little did I know what was to come. If not every single day, it was at least every other day that I talked to Daddy. Usually, we had a typical 2-minute conversation. “Hey Daddy, what you doing?”
“Oh, nothing girl, just sitting here relaxing.”
Depending on whether I caught him half asleep or fully awake, the conversation could go one of a million ways. Mostly we would get off the phone immediately with a casual goodbye.
“Okay, just checking on ya. Daddy, go back to sleep.”
We often shared any number of long, drawn-out conversations on everything from gas prices to somebody on his job getting ill, or something pertaining to a distant relative I had no memory of. But on this particular day, something was different. Something was off. I tried calling him the night before while I was still at the election site, just before I knew he would be taking a nap to get ready for work at midnight. I tried again when I closed the polls about 10 or 11 p.m., on my way home, hoping to catch him fresh out the shower before he got dressed and jumped into his truck for work. Daddy had the same pattern every day. It usually started with him laying or piddling around all day until dusk, when it was time to prepare for his part-time “sleeping job” at the local bowling alley; the midnight shift. When I didn’t catch him, it wasn’t surprising. I knew for sure I’d catch him the next morning. After I failed to catch him for the umpteenth time, I did the one thing I dreaded most. Fearing a sharp reprimand, I called his job. Because I knew he hated his job and was just counting the days, even minutes, until re-retirement; I was doubtful he was still there. And, as it turned out, he wasn’t.
Next, I did the second thing that I knew I would live to regret if he had merely overslept. I called his neighbor, Ms. Effie. After knocking, peeking through windows, and calling his name repeatedly, Ms. Effie called back to tell me that she had no luck but thought he may have been home because she saw both cars in his garage. After what seemed like hours of Ms. Effie knocking, calling out my Dad’s name, “Al! Al!” and trying to calm me down hundreds of miles away, she decided to call for backup in the form of her daughter Erica; who I had also known for years. After a few more hours of knocking on windows, doors, and anything she could find, she called Dad’s phone repeatedly. Eventually, Erica heard his phone ring from inside the house. It was then, I knew he was gone. Daddy always carried his phone on his person, in either a pocket or on a chain attached to his hip.
The authorities wouldn’t tell me much except that he didn’t suffer. The room was left virtually undisturbed, which suggested there was not a struggle. Instead, they said he was sitting upright in a chair with his breathing machine by his bedside and appeared to have passed peacefully. He presumably had an asthma attack but the death certificate recorded it as “death by natural causes” and I’m okay with that. I had always imagined that I’d be there with him, like I was when my mother took her final breath but in this case, it wasn’t a part of God’s plan.
Step 1: Making the Call
Notification Process: The first step and one of the most difficult of the ten I will outline, is the notification process. Instead of contacting our immediate family first, I notified people I knew would kick into full gear to do some of the heavier lifting that I was neither mentally nor emotionally prepared to do yet. I recommend appointing a “go-to-man” from the outset. You will need assistance in making dreadful phone calls while navigating through what will seem to be an endless list of people to notify; otherwise known as your “Call List.”
Handle with Care: In retrospect, after helping with the deaths of close friends, an important part of the process is to “Handle with Care.” This is important for those who meant the most to your loved one and would want to hear the news directly from you. I caused irreparable damage in my neglect of a relative that was near and dear to me, and my Dad, when he heard the news of his passing via word of mouth. Remember, word of mouth travels faster than the front page news.
( Continued... )
© 2015 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Angie Ransome-Jones. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.
About the Author
Angie Ransome-Jones is a wife of 20+ years and mother of two young men, all currently residing in Texas. A banking Vice President and MBA, Angela has her own non-profit (501C-3) organization, Magnifying our Mothers (M.O.M.), which she founded in 2010, in memory of her mother, who lost her battle with cancer years earlier. In her spare time, Angela enjoys serving as a volunteer in her church and community, along with practicing and teaching yoga, and she is an active member of both Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Toastmasters International. Website: http://www.path-2-peace.com
Purchase Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One
https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Guide-Managing-After-Losing/dp/0991220919
Path to Peace author Angie Ransome-Jones talks about preparing for the inevitable on WFAA-Good Morning Texas. Watch the interview replay, go here.
Death is difficult but inevitable. Path to Peace provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!
CONVERSATION WITH ANGIE RANSOME-JONES
BPM: Who is Angie Ransome-Jones?
Wow, great question! First and foremost, I am a Servant of the Lord; but I’m also a servant to those who need me. I am a mother a wife, a friend, a sister, a free spirit, a volunteer, and a yogi. I am many different things to many different people! My legal name is Angela D. Jones. I became Angie Ransome-Jones in 2015 after my Dad passed away and I published my first book, dedicated to his memory. Prior to that, only my friends and family knew and referred to me as Angie. Now, the masses know me as Angie and I’m ok with that because now I feel more free to be the same person in both worlds – personal and professional; although I still choose to keep both worlds very separate.
BPM: Have you always known you wanted to be an author?
No, I never had great aspirations to be an author. Writing a book was on my long Bucket List; but I never imagined that my book would be centered around such circumstances and would lead to this wild, but rewarding ride that I’m now on!
BPM: What led you to write: “Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One"?
The sudden death of my father, Albert D. Ransome, in 2013 caused me to write the book not only as a therapeutic outlet and a “release” for myself; but also as a tool to educate others on the numerous things that I learned during the process of laying him to rest and settling his earthly affairs. As a bonafide “Daddy’s Girl,” my father was the closest person to me after my mom passed away, so as you can imagine, losing him so suddenly was truly devastating for me.
BPM: Why did you choose this title?
My editor and I considered a number of different titles and covers, but this one best described my journey in terms of the path that I traveled, which eventually led to an evolving peace for me. This same “peace” has allowed me to look at life very differently than I did before.
BPM: What were some of the benefits you experienced writing the book?
The book has allowed me to connect with thousands of people from all walks of life who have either had an experience similar to mine, know someone who has or are preparing themselves for the experience losing someone. It has also allowed me to travel the country speaking to and educating others on the subject and the necessity of preparing for the inevitable, which is death. The money I receive from doing what I consider to be “God’s assignment,” is just icing on the cake for me!
BPM: What were your most challenging moments writing the book?
Trying to separate my raw emotions from the facts and information that would be beneficial to readers dealing with loss. My editor revised it at least 7-8 times to ensure that it was transparent, without being too revealing in terms of my personal life.
BPM: Can you share one specific point in your book that resonated with you the most?
I think it would have to be the necessity of having what I refer to as a “Control Book.” in place. Having a Will and Life Insurance are necessary also, but just having something documented; a roadmap, if you will, for your family in case of your death, is just as critical!
BPM: Death is such a sensitive topic and is widely avoided, what are some ways survivors can effectively prepare for their own death to give their family peace when they leave this earth?
You’re absolutely right. My job is very tough in that my book is not something that all people are receptive to, because it deals with such an uncomfortable and taboo subject. But I can’t stress enough the importance of having those conversations, as difficult as they are, with your loved ones about your wishes. It should be a two-way conversation so that everyone is on the same page. And ensuring that those you entrust to carry on your legacy after you are gone are well-prepared; both directionally and financially.
BPM: What is it like to read the reviews of strangers who have read your book?
It is THE THING that keeps me going. Hearing my words repeated in context to how they affected a person’s life in terms – whether they related to it or reacted to it – is the most rewarding piece for me.
BPM: How has writing about your story impacted your life now?
I have definitely been busier than I have ever been in life, but in a great way!! I never imagined that the book would take off; let alone be a bestseller! I have been interviewed a number of times, featured in numerous magazines and recently appeared on Good Morning Texas, which was my first live TV appearance. I will appear again live on the Local Memphis Live show, which is similar to GMT. I feel blessed and honored and humbled that God has chosen me to deliver such an important message.
BPM: What advice would you give to someone who wants to write about their story?
I truly believe that everyone has a story in them; no matter if it’s a trial they’ve been through or a story of triumph or lessons learned they want to share. I used to consider myself an “accidental author” but then I stopped calling myself that because I realize that all of this was by design. God turned my pain in losing my father; actually both of my parents, into my purpose. In the words of the late, great Elie Wiesel, I encourage anyone who “survives a test, whatever it may be,” to tell his/her story because “it is his duty.”
BPM: Do you have any other organizations you are part of? If yes, please share.
Yes, I have a non-profit 501C-3 organization that myself and my Vice President Renea Mewborn started in 2010 called Magnifying our Mothers (M.O.M.). For years after my mother’s death from cancer in 2002, I struggled with Mothers Days and holidays in general; so founding M.O.M. came out of my desire to break that cycle and do something positive instead, that would not only help people who were bereaved, but also change my mindset about her death and make her very proud! M.O.M. assists the bereaved, including children who have lost one or more of their parents through the offering of donations to other local/nationwide charities, grief counseling resources, financial support (funeral expenses, etc.) and we are in the process of setting up scholarships for bereaved children under our Legacy Keeper Kids umbrella.
BPM: What else can we expect to see from you?
Another great question! My plan is to take a break to focus on my youngest son, who will be leaving home to attend college out-of-state. However, I want to continue to be led by God and let Him continue to order my steps, whatever that may be. I do have plans; however, to publish a companion Control Book that will accompany Path to Peace, which will come out sometime in 2017.
BPM: Please tell everyone how you can be contacted to support you by purchasing your products/services, book you for their upcoming events, or partner with you in your vision.
I’m more than happy to partner with others, answer questions, come and speak, etc.! People can reach me via email at: info@authorangiejones.com or through my Author Angie Jones Facebook page.My website is http://www.path-2-peace.com and they can purchase copies of my book there or via Amazon.com.
Website: http://www.path-2-peace.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorARJones
Path to Peace: A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved Oneby Angie Ransome-JonesDeath is difficult but inevitable. Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!
Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing A Loved One, chronicles one daughter’s journey of finding peace after the devastating loss of her father. In the midst of grieving, Angie Ransome-Jones was suddenly faced with laying her father to rest, settling his financial affairs and reconciling her unresolved feelings over the loss of her mother.
After learning what she refers to as “the process,” it’s now her mission to share practical steps to picking up the pieces and finding peace, after the loss of a loved one. In this book, Angie provides a comprehensive guide that yields advice from an attorney, financial advisor and grief counselor.
“Path to Peace” is one daughter’s story of reclaiming her life, realizing her purpose and finding inner peace along the way.
What People Are Saying About Path to Peace
Path to Peace is a wonderful book used as a source to go to time and time again if you are going through the process of grieving after losing someone. It is well researched and written, and is easy to absorb all while letting the reader take what they need at different times during the grieving process.
It does a comprehensive job of touching on the many types of loss, and offers helpful suggestions for coping and moving forward. From the moment I first started reading it, I knew the perspective is coming from well-informed person who has been through the grieving process.
I highly recommend buying it when you or someone you know is faced with the death of a loved one as it guides you forward with practical guides on what to do as well as emotional help. Give the book to someone you know who needs it. You will be able to help them when they need it most on their own time. By owning the book yourself, you will be able to understand and anticipate the needs of the people you care for who may need your help during a difficult time. This is simply an amazing, well-written book that exceeded my expectations.
“This book is a compassionate and poignant reflection of the premise…everyone grieves differently. It is simply heart-warming!”
~Dionne Anglin, News Reporter, KDFW-TV
This guide provides practical tools to manage the business affairs after losing a loved one.”
~Victor McGlothin, Essence Magazine Bestselling Author
“What an incredible show of strength and courage in the middle of grief and loss…..Angie presents a very practical roadmap for all of us to follow!”
~Dr. Tracey Brown, Author/Speaker/Counselor Supervisor-Dallas ISD
EXCERPT CHAPTER ONE
Until a year ago, I had always equated Election Day with colorful yard signs, cooler weather and National Angie Ransome-Jones Day, also known as my birthday. Now, I equate it to my Daddy’s passing. It was a normal day, just like any other for me. I ran my mouth with Evelyn while trying to get some semblance of work done at home. The day before, I worked an election with my good friend, Janis, like I had for the past few years and was trying to play catch up like I always do, whenever I take off from work. Coming off of a great weekend, I was on cloud 21!
Dad came down to celebrate my 44TH birthday and I basked in the possibilities of another year as Myles, my son, prepared for his first semester of college. There were so many things to be thankful for. Little did I know what was to come. If not every single day, it was at least every other day that I talked to Daddy. Usually, we had a typical 2-minute conversation. “Hey Daddy, what you doing?”
“Oh, nothing girl, just sitting here relaxing.”
Depending on whether I caught him half asleep or fully awake, the conversation could go one of a million ways. Mostly we would get off the phone immediately with a casual goodbye.
“Okay, just checking on ya. Daddy, go back to sleep.”
We often shared any number of long, drawn-out conversations on everything from gas prices to somebody on his job getting ill, or something pertaining to a distant relative I had no memory of. But on this particular day, something was different. Something was off. I tried calling him the night before while I was still at the election site, just before I knew he would be taking a nap to get ready for work at midnight. I tried again when I closed the polls about 10 or 11 p.m., on my way home, hoping to catch him fresh out the shower before he got dressed and jumped into his truck for work. Daddy had the same pattern every day. It usually started with him laying or piddling around all day until dusk, when it was time to prepare for his part-time “sleeping job” at the local bowling alley; the midnight shift. When I didn’t catch him, it wasn’t surprising. I knew for sure I’d catch him the next morning. After I failed to catch him for the umpteenth time, I did the one thing I dreaded most. Fearing a sharp reprimand, I called his job. Because I knew he hated his job and was just counting the days, even minutes, until re-retirement; I was doubtful he was still there. And, as it turned out, he wasn’t.
Next, I did the second thing that I knew I would live to regret if he had merely overslept. I called his neighbor, Ms. Effie. After knocking, peeking through windows, and calling his name repeatedly, Ms. Effie called back to tell me that she had no luck but thought he may have been home because she saw both cars in his garage. After what seemed like hours of Ms. Effie knocking, calling out my Dad’s name, “Al! Al!” and trying to calm me down hundreds of miles away, she decided to call for backup in the form of her daughter Erica; who I had also known for years. After a few more hours of knocking on windows, doors, and anything she could find, she called Dad’s phone repeatedly. Eventually, Erica heard his phone ring from inside the house. It was then, I knew he was gone. Daddy always carried his phone on his person, in either a pocket or on a chain attached to his hip.
The authorities wouldn’t tell me much except that he didn’t suffer. The room was left virtually undisturbed, which suggested there was not a struggle. Instead, they said he was sitting upright in a chair with his breathing machine by his bedside and appeared to have passed peacefully. He presumably had an asthma attack but the death certificate recorded it as “death by natural causes” and I’m okay with that. I had always imagined that I’d be there with him, like I was when my mother took her final breath but in this case, it wasn’t a part of God’s plan.
Step 1: Making the Call
Notification Process: The first step and one of the most difficult of the ten I will outline, is the notification process. Instead of contacting our immediate family first, I notified people I knew would kick into full gear to do some of the heavier lifting that I was neither mentally nor emotionally prepared to do yet. I recommend appointing a “go-to-man” from the outset. You will need assistance in making dreadful phone calls while navigating through what will seem to be an endless list of people to notify; otherwise known as your “Call List.”
Handle with Care: In retrospect, after helping with the deaths of close friends, an important part of the process is to “Handle with Care.” This is important for those who meant the most to your loved one and would want to hear the news directly from you. I caused irreparable damage in my neglect of a relative that was near and dear to me, and my Dad, when he heard the news of his passing via word of mouth. Remember, word of mouth travels faster than the front page news.
( Continued... )
© 2015 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Angie Ransome-Jones. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.
About the Author
Angie Ransome-Jones is a wife of 20+ years and mother of two young men, all currently residing in Texas. A banking Vice President and MBA, Angela has her own non-profit (501C-3) organization, Magnifying our Mothers (M.O.M.), which she founded in 2010, in memory of her mother, who lost her battle with cancer years earlier. In her spare time, Angela enjoys serving as a volunteer in her church and community, along with practicing and teaching yoga, and she is an active member of both Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Toastmasters International. Website: http://www.path-2-peace.com
Purchase Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One
https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Guide-Managing-After-Losing/dp/0991220919
Path to Peace author Angie Ransome-Jones talks about preparing for the inevitable on WFAA-Good Morning Texas. Watch the interview replay, go here.
Death is difficult but inevitable. Path to Peace provides practical steps for preparing for the inevitable and coping after death – it should be on every bookshelf!
CONVERSATION WITH ANGIE RANSOME-JONESBPM: Who is Angie Ransome-Jones?
Wow, great question! First and foremost, I am a Servant of the Lord; but I’m also a servant to those who need me. I am a mother a wife, a friend, a sister, a free spirit, a volunteer, and a yogi. I am many different things to many different people! My legal name is Angela D. Jones. I became Angie Ransome-Jones in 2015 after my Dad passed away and I published my first book, dedicated to his memory. Prior to that, only my friends and family knew and referred to me as Angie. Now, the masses know me as Angie and I’m ok with that because now I feel more free to be the same person in both worlds – personal and professional; although I still choose to keep both worlds very separate.
BPM: Have you always known you wanted to be an author?
No, I never had great aspirations to be an author. Writing a book was on my long Bucket List; but I never imagined that my book would be centered around such circumstances and would lead to this wild, but rewarding ride that I’m now on!
BPM: What led you to write: “Path to Peace, A Guide to Managing Life After Losing a Loved One"?
The sudden death of my father, Albert D. Ransome, in 2013 caused me to write the book not only as a therapeutic outlet and a “release” for myself; but also as a tool to educate others on the numerous things that I learned during the process of laying him to rest and settling his earthly affairs. As a bonafide “Daddy’s Girl,” my father was the closest person to me after my mom passed away, so as you can imagine, losing him so suddenly was truly devastating for me.
BPM: Why did you choose this title?
My editor and I considered a number of different titles and covers, but this one best described my journey in terms of the path that I traveled, which eventually led to an evolving peace for me. This same “peace” has allowed me to look at life very differently than I did before.
BPM: What were some of the benefits you experienced writing the book?
The book has allowed me to connect with thousands of people from all walks of life who have either had an experience similar to mine, know someone who has or are preparing themselves for the experience losing someone. It has also allowed me to travel the country speaking to and educating others on the subject and the necessity of preparing for the inevitable, which is death. The money I receive from doing what I consider to be “God’s assignment,” is just icing on the cake for me!
BPM: What were your most challenging moments writing the book?
Trying to separate my raw emotions from the facts and information that would be beneficial to readers dealing with loss. My editor revised it at least 7-8 times to ensure that it was transparent, without being too revealing in terms of my personal life.
BPM: Can you share one specific point in your book that resonated with you the most?
I think it would have to be the necessity of having what I refer to as a “Control Book.” in place. Having a Will and Life Insurance are necessary also, but just having something documented; a roadmap, if you will, for your family in case of your death, is just as critical!
BPM: Death is such a sensitive topic and is widely avoided, what are some ways survivors can effectively prepare for their own death to give their family peace when they leave this earth?
You’re absolutely right. My job is very tough in that my book is not something that all people are receptive to, because it deals with such an uncomfortable and taboo subject. But I can’t stress enough the importance of having those conversations, as difficult as they are, with your loved ones about your wishes. It should be a two-way conversation so that everyone is on the same page. And ensuring that those you entrust to carry on your legacy after you are gone are well-prepared; both directionally and financially.
BPM: What is it like to read the reviews of strangers who have read your book?
It is THE THING that keeps me going. Hearing my words repeated in context to how they affected a person’s life in terms – whether they related to it or reacted to it – is the most rewarding piece for me.
BPM: How has writing about your story impacted your life now?
I have definitely been busier than I have ever been in life, but in a great way!! I never imagined that the book would take off; let alone be a bestseller! I have been interviewed a number of times, featured in numerous magazines and recently appeared on Good Morning Texas, which was my first live TV appearance. I will appear again live on the Local Memphis Live show, which is similar to GMT. I feel blessed and honored and humbled that God has chosen me to deliver such an important message.
BPM: What advice would you give to someone who wants to write about their story?
I truly believe that everyone has a story in them; no matter if it’s a trial they’ve been through or a story of triumph or lessons learned they want to share. I used to consider myself an “accidental author” but then I stopped calling myself that because I realize that all of this was by design. God turned my pain in losing my father; actually both of my parents, into my purpose. In the words of the late, great Elie Wiesel, I encourage anyone who “survives a test, whatever it may be,” to tell his/her story because “it is his duty.”
BPM: Do you have any other organizations you are part of? If yes, please share.
Yes, I have a non-profit 501C-3 organization that myself and my Vice President Renea Mewborn started in 2010 called Magnifying our Mothers (M.O.M.). For years after my mother’s death from cancer in 2002, I struggled with Mothers Days and holidays in general; so founding M.O.M. came out of my desire to break that cycle and do something positive instead, that would not only help people who were bereaved, but also change my mindset about her death and make her very proud! M.O.M. assists the bereaved, including children who have lost one or more of their parents through the offering of donations to other local/nationwide charities, grief counseling resources, financial support (funeral expenses, etc.) and we are in the process of setting up scholarships for bereaved children under our Legacy Keeper Kids umbrella.
BPM: What else can we expect to see from you?
Another great question! My plan is to take a break to focus on my youngest son, who will be leaving home to attend college out-of-state. However, I want to continue to be led by God and let Him continue to order my steps, whatever that may be. I do have plans; however, to publish a companion Control Book that will accompany Path to Peace, which will come out sometime in 2017.
BPM: Please tell everyone how you can be contacted to support you by purchasing your products/services, book you for their upcoming events, or partner with you in your vision.
I’m more than happy to partner with others, answer questions, come and speak, etc.! People can reach me via email at: info@authorangiejones.com or through my Author Angie Jones Facebook page.My website is http://www.path-2-peace.com and they can purchase copies of my book there or via Amazon.com.
Website: http://www.path-2-peace.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorARJones
January 7, 2017
The Resolution: The first three chapters
A Pulled from the Headlines Read© 2017 All rights reserved. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author, Michelle Lindo-Rice's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Please note, this is an UNEDITED peek at the author's work.
Enjoy the First Three Chapters ofTHE RESOLUTION
ORDER YOUR COPYCh. 1
This is too much for me. I’m not cut out for marriage. I’m done.Geneva Samson sat on her bed and read the words on her Android screen for the tenth time. Her brows furrowed. Who breaks off an engagement via text message? Joshua James, her boyfriend of six years and fiancé of eleven months, did. They were just in church together the day before. Then today, Sunday, he sends her this text. Tears slid down her cheeks and down her neck. She had been waiting for another text message to hit her phone saying he was joking or it was a mistake. But, her phone had been silent.Geneva tossed the device on the bed and stuffed a fist in her mouth to keep from making a sound. She lived alone in her condo but her walls were paper-thin. She didn’t want her neighbors hearing her wailing because Josh had ignored her seven responses and sent her calls to voicemail. He had also changed his social media status to single. Like sugar ants, people were drawn to that juicy news.She bit back a scream. Josh could have at least face her with the news. Tell her to her face he no longer wanted to get married. That Josh didn’t think she was worth a decent conversation hurt. They had been college sweethearts at Ohio State pursuing their Master’s degrees at the College of Education and Human Ecology. Josh had found his niche as a middle school math teacher. Geneva hadn’t settled there. While she worked as an exceptional student educator, she had enrolled in the PhD program to major in Education Leadership. She intended to become a principal of an elementary.Geneva’s best friend, Selena Mills called. “Have you heard from him?” Geneva had forwarded the text message to her when she had received it.She sat up on her bed. “No. He’s not answering my calls.”“That’s real grimy. Joshua James is a punk and I’d better not see his face at church next week.”“I don’t think he’ll be coming to Rock of Hope anytime soon. When my father finds out…” She covered her face. “I don’t want to hear my dad say, I told you so, and how I should’ve listened.”“Do you think it had anything to do with the sermon? Pastor Samson hit the book of James hard yesterday. His message on double-mindedness had me squirming in my seat.”“I don’t know,” she said. Her father had been wary of Josh from they first met. He said something about Joshua didn’t gel with him. Her heart ached at how right her father had been.“Be prepared. You know this is research for his next sermon.”Despite her relationship troubles, Geneva chuckled. Pastor Ernest Samson had been a single parent by choice. Once her mother had passed, he never remarried. Geneva had been a strong-will child. Some of her antics had made it in his sermons, causing much laughter in the congregation. Geneva believed her father could use any situation and turn it into a message. “I can hear him now,” she groaned, running her hands through her hair. Geneva avoided looking in the mirror. She knew her hair had to be a horrible mess. She kept her hair natural; opting to get it straightened bi-weekly at the salon.“Oh please. His little Genny can do no wrong. It’s Josh who should be worried. He must have forgotten your father has boxing gloves for hands.” Geneva laughed. “Only you can make me crack up when I’m supposed to be crying.” She touched her chest and admitted in a low voice, “I’m in so much pain. I can’t believe Josh would do this to me.”“Girl, be for real. You know Josh has been real shady these past weeks. If you asked me, he did you a favor.”Geneva wiped a tear. “I asked him if he was getting cold feet and he waved off my concerns. But he waits until it’s two weeks before our wedding and I’ve paid off for the honeymoon to pull this stunt.” Her chest heaved. “I can’t get my money back. In fact, I just paid up the balances on the wedding cake and banquet hall this morning, and they have a strict no-refund policy.” She clenched her fists. “And, he knew it because I told him last night.”“What a sleaze ball,” Selena said. “You know there are other names I could call him, but I’m saved.”“I can think of some myself, but I’m not apologizing to God because of Josh.”“That slime isn’t worth it.” She sighed through the line. “Are you sure you can’t get your money back?”Geneva bit her lower lip and massaged her temples. “No. I feel bad knowing my father spent twenty-thousand dollars to give me a dream wedding.” She shook her head. “It will remain a dream.” More tears fell. She used her pajama sleeve to wipe them away.“You should sue that jerk. Make him pay half.” Her heart constricted. “That money was my mother’s legacy. When my father received the payout from the insurance policy, he put away my college money and,” she gulped, “Money for my wedding.” She clutched her stomach. “I feel like I squandered what Mommy had to die and give me. She was a deli worker. My mother’s death made me debt free.”“Oh, no. I had no idea. I’m so sorry,” Selena said.Geneva put a hand to her chest. “I’d give back every dime and be buried under student loans, to have her here with me.”“Oh, honey. If you want my mother, you can have mine.”Geneva gave a little laugh. “Selena, you’re a mess.”“Just lightening the air to keep from going after Josh.”Geneva squeezed her eyes shut. “Oh goodness! I forgot I present my dissertation results tomorrow. How am I supposed to get up in front of a room full of people and talk about the effects of autism and career choice when my heart is breaking?” She had intended to practice her oral presentation tomorrow and have Josh run her through the questions. But here she was, with a broken engagement and broken promises, like a model in a sad love song video. Her shoulders sagged and she curled in a fetal position. “My eyes are puffy and red. They might think I was puffing on something. I think I might have to cancel.”She bit her lip. Geneva had coordinated it so she completed her doctorate before getting married. She would then go on her honeymoon and take off the rest of the school year to move into the role of wife. She had crimped and saved to be able to stay home during her first eight months of marriage. Maybe have a baby…Selena balked at that idea, but Geneva treasured the opportunity. Her plan was that over the summer, if God hadn’t opened her womb, she would pursue educational leadership positions or teach college level. Geneva had everything timed just right. Everything except for Josh’s cowardice. “You can and you will do it. I don’t want to hear any talk of postponing your presentation.” Selena’s tone was firm. “Give yourself five minutes. Five minutes of your tears is more than you should devote crying over that loser. You’ve worked too hard and spent too many nights revising that two hundred-page document to quit now. Pull yourself together.”She clenched her fists. “I can’t.” “Geneva Margaret Samson, I’m on my way to your place. By the time I get there, I had better not see you curled up and feeling sorry for yourself. You’d better put some cucumber on your eyes or use some Visine drops but I had better not see puffy, red eyes. As far as I’m concerned, Josh did you a favor.” “I could’ve done without this favor.” Geneva pulled herself into a sitting position. “I’m not curled up…” Not anymore. Her voice broke.“Be there in fifteen. You hear me? You have fifteen minutes,” she said.Geneva swung one leg off her bed. She rested a hand on the bed and lowered her head. She couldn’t do this. Her nose ran and the tears wouldn’t end.“Make that fourteen minutes and ten seconds.” The line went dead.Ugh. She placed her other leg on the floor. She knew she only had ten minutes with the way Selena drove. Geneva knew it wasn’t wise but she went on social media and went to Josh’s page. She felt her eyes go wide. Josh had changed his picture. He was all hugged up with two young girls at a party. Her private message box overflowed. Geneva closed her eyes and put the phone on the bed, stifling a sob. Here she was crying while he was partying. She lifted a chin. No way. She had to ride her pride through this humiliation. She had enough to last a lifetime. Then she straightened. “Lord, help me stand,” she whispered.Slowly, she made a fist and stood. Geneva wiped her face and took one step forward. She took another step and more until she was at her desk. Geneva picked up one of her mother’s favorite records and put it in the turntable.Gloria Gaynor’s, I will survive, filled the room.Geneva focused on the lyrics. Soon she began to sing along. She sang until she believed. She would survive. One step at a time.
Ch. 2
“Congratulations, Dr. Samson,” Selena said, pulling her in for a hug. “I’m glad I could listen in. You were amazing. I was quite impressed.”Geneva squeezed her friend tight. They rocked back and forth in their embrace. Hearing her professors introduce her as Dr. Samson had made all her late night studies and midnight papers worth it. Her eyes had misted but she held it together as she shook hands and took pictures. “Thanks for taking the day off to support me, Selena, and for practicing with me last night. I can’t tell you how much that means to me.”“Are you kidding? I had to be here. I’m glad I’m not sitting behind that dreary desk.”The women laughed and broke apart. “Yeah, right. You know you love going into that courtroom as the youngest Latina judge in our county.”Selena snapped her fingers. “And you know it. And, by the way, it’s the youngest Latina judge in the state. Okay.” The wind blew the hat off her head. Selena ran to get it and pushed it down. “It’s so cold out here. I wish I had worn my gloves.”They sauntered toward their vehicles. They were parked side by side. Selena pressed the start button. Her car should be warm and toasty in a couple minutes. Geneva pulled her wool coat close. “It has to be close to zero degrees. I bet we’re going to have snow.”“I hope not.” Selena moaned. “I haven’t gone shopping for boots yet.”Geneva rolled her eyes. “You have at least ten pairs in your closet. It’s a good thing we wear the same shoe size. I’ve saved so much money because of you.”Selena gave her a playful slap. Then shivered. “What I wouldn’t give to be in Jamaica right now.”“Me too.” Geneva blew into her hands.“What do you mean, me too?” Selena put her hands on her hips. “You have a paid trip to Jamaica.”Geneva raised a brow. “And?”“Do you need me to spell it out?” Selena asked. Then she wagged a finger. “I know you. I know you thought about it.”She touched her chin. “I did, but it’s the honeymoon suite. I’ll look pitiful curled up in there all by myself.”“So? Call them and change rooms.” Selena pointed to her head. “You’ve got to change your mindset. Consider that vacation your reward for earning your dissertation. You go, girl. You did it.” Selena broke into a praise jig and then sang, “Dr. Samson in full effect.”Geneva giggled. “Your age is showing. I don’t know who says that anymore.”Her neck swung back and forth. “I do.” She broke into the Prep and sang, “Geneva in full effect.”“You taking it way back doing the Prep,” Geneva said, mimicking her. They did a broke-down version of the Kid-N-Play, another dance move from the nineties, before they cracked up laughing. “I love you, girl,” Geneva said. “It’s only with you I get this silly.”“That’s what best friends are for.” Selena gave her a kiss on the cheek. “I’d better get to the courthouse. My bailiff friend might be worried about me.” She unlocked her door and jumped inside.“Leave those young men alone, Selena.”“Jennifer Lopez and Demi Moore have nothing on me.” With a wave, she pulled off.
Ch. 3
Geneva entered her Camry and started the car. She shivered and turned up the heat. While the car warmed up, Geneva rested her head on the steering wheel and prayed. “Lord, I thank You for seeing me through. I couldn’t have done this without You. Thank You for bringing everything back to my memory. Thank You for helping me rise above.”She set her music to Kirk Franklin and sang on her way home. Geneva was determined to praise her pain away. The more she sang, the less she thought of he-whose-name-shall-not-be-called.Geneva pulled into the drive-through to get herself a breakfast burrito and hash browns. Her stomach had been in knots and she hadn’t eaten. She had a bad case of the nerves and couldn’t risk throwing up in the middle of her presentation.She squinted. There was a brown Durango, two cars ahead. Her heart slammed into her chest. That was Josh’s car. She slipped on her sunglasses and prayed he wouldn’t look through his rearview. But in case he did, Geneva turned up the praise. She rocked out to, “You’re an Overcomer.” If he spotted her, she wanted him seeing her having a good time without him.Geneva kept singing until she forgot about Josh ahead of her. When she received her order, she gave the cashier a genuine smile. Geneva snacked on the fries and drove to the church. She needed to share her good news in person.She parked next to her father’s car and finished her meal. She didn’t want the usual lecture on healthy eating. Then she scurried inside, bracing herself against the wind. The temperature had dropped several degrees. Her feet were freezing in her pumps. She rubbed her hands. Tonight she was pulling out her boots.Once inside, Geneva headed to her father’s office. She plopped her coat over a chair.“How did you do?” Pastor Samson asked.She spread her hands and grinned. “You’re now looking at Dr. Geneva Samson.”He clapped his hands and came from around his desk to give her a hug. She enjoyed the warmth of wool sweater. “Congratulations, Doctor. I’m so proud. I wish Maggie was here to see you.”Geneva smiled. “I’ve decided to go on my honeymoon.”His brows rose to his forehead. “Without a husband?”She looked at her feet. “That’s too much money to waste. I plan on calling the resort and having them downgrade my room.”“I’d come with you but you know we have our convention coming up.”She nodded. “Selena can’t come, either. She had already put in for her cruise in March and the other judges are going on their family vacations.” She shrugged. “The resort is all inclusive and there are daily excursions. But I plan to relax, sleep late and read on the beach.”Pastor Samson’s chest puffed. “You’re a survivor just like Maggie. She would’ve done the same thing.” He gestured to the phone. “Why don’t you call them now? Your reservations are only a couple weeks away so if you’re going to make changes, do it now.”Geneva went over to his computer and pulled up her travel information. She used the landline to call the Iberia Resort. One of her teacher friends had stayed there during her trip to Montego Bay, and had highly recommended the five-star establishment. Her father leaned against the door jam and folded his hands.“Welcome to the Iberia Resort. How may I direct your call?”“I’m calling to change my reservation.” Geneva supplied her travel information. “I had the honeymoon suite booked and I wanted to change rooms and possibly get a refund on the difference?” “Let me see what we can do.” He spoke and moved so fast she wasn’t able to answer. Geneva tapped her fingers on the desk to the tune of the hold music. She cupped the phone. “I’m waiting to see.”“I’ve got a meeting,” her father said. He grabbed a notebook and threw her a kiss.“Ma’am? Unfortunately, we were not able to offer you a refund, as the package was non-refundable. Also, because we are hosting a destination wedding that weekend, we are full to capacity. But I have great news. I was able to book you into another suite. It features two master bedrooms and shared dining. I hope this is a better solution?” Disappointing news sounded pleasant with that lilting accent. She scrunched her nose. “I’ll take it.” “Okay, Ms. Samson, you’re all set. We look forward to your visit to the beautiful Montego Bay and trust you will enjoy your stay at the Iberia Resort. May I help you with anything else?” “Uh, yes, I will be there,” she said, though she hadn’t processed everything he saidShe touched her chest. She was going to an island she’d never been before. Alone. The reality was daunting. Geneva’s heart raced. She had traveled abroad before but with the singles group from her church. She’d been to Rome and London but this was supposed to have been her honeymoon. Her shoulders sagged. The thought of being in a two-bedroom suite by herself depressed her.Geneva toyed with her dress shirt collar. “Lord, I know I’m not alone, but I would prefer to take this trip with another human.” She printed out her vacation information. When it was finished, Geneva held the stack in her hand. She reviewed the documents. Joshua’s plane ticket had printed with hers. His name was below hers in everything. She snorted. “I wish I knew another Joshua James, caused I’d take him with me.” She chuckled. That joke slowly morphed in a consideration.Geneva tilted her head. Why couldn’t she take another Joshua James with her? What if there was someone in her county with the same name? She shook her head. Why was she even dwelling on that insane idea? Except…It might not be that farfetched. Joshua James was a common name, like Bob Smith. Geneva rushed over to the computer. She tapped in his name and her town in the search bar. Her mouth dropped. There were three in her county. She leaned back in the chair and looked up at the ceiling. What if one of them was crazy enough to take her up on her offer?She squinted. How would she reach them? Her eyes widened. She had the best marketing tool at her fingertips.Social media.She grinned.
Perfect.
Order Your Copy
Enjoy the First Three Chapters ofTHE RESOLUTION
ORDER YOUR COPYCh. 1This is too much for me. I’m not cut out for marriage. I’m done.Geneva Samson sat on her bed and read the words on her Android screen for the tenth time. Her brows furrowed. Who breaks off an engagement via text message? Joshua James, her boyfriend of six years and fiancé of eleven months, did. They were just in church together the day before. Then today, Sunday, he sends her this text. Tears slid down her cheeks and down her neck. She had been waiting for another text message to hit her phone saying he was joking or it was a mistake. But, her phone had been silent.Geneva tossed the device on the bed and stuffed a fist in her mouth to keep from making a sound. She lived alone in her condo but her walls were paper-thin. She didn’t want her neighbors hearing her wailing because Josh had ignored her seven responses and sent her calls to voicemail. He had also changed his social media status to single. Like sugar ants, people were drawn to that juicy news.She bit back a scream. Josh could have at least face her with the news. Tell her to her face he no longer wanted to get married. That Josh didn’t think she was worth a decent conversation hurt. They had been college sweethearts at Ohio State pursuing their Master’s degrees at the College of Education and Human Ecology. Josh had found his niche as a middle school math teacher. Geneva hadn’t settled there. While she worked as an exceptional student educator, she had enrolled in the PhD program to major in Education Leadership. She intended to become a principal of an elementary.Geneva’s best friend, Selena Mills called. “Have you heard from him?” Geneva had forwarded the text message to her when she had received it.She sat up on her bed. “No. He’s not answering my calls.”“That’s real grimy. Joshua James is a punk and I’d better not see his face at church next week.”“I don’t think he’ll be coming to Rock of Hope anytime soon. When my father finds out…” She covered her face. “I don’t want to hear my dad say, I told you so, and how I should’ve listened.”“Do you think it had anything to do with the sermon? Pastor Samson hit the book of James hard yesterday. His message on double-mindedness had me squirming in my seat.”“I don’t know,” she said. Her father had been wary of Josh from they first met. He said something about Joshua didn’t gel with him. Her heart ached at how right her father had been.“Be prepared. You know this is research for his next sermon.”Despite her relationship troubles, Geneva chuckled. Pastor Ernest Samson had been a single parent by choice. Once her mother had passed, he never remarried. Geneva had been a strong-will child. Some of her antics had made it in his sermons, causing much laughter in the congregation. Geneva believed her father could use any situation and turn it into a message. “I can hear him now,” she groaned, running her hands through her hair. Geneva avoided looking in the mirror. She knew her hair had to be a horrible mess. She kept her hair natural; opting to get it straightened bi-weekly at the salon.“Oh please. His little Genny can do no wrong. It’s Josh who should be worried. He must have forgotten your father has boxing gloves for hands.” Geneva laughed. “Only you can make me crack up when I’m supposed to be crying.” She touched her chest and admitted in a low voice, “I’m in so much pain. I can’t believe Josh would do this to me.”“Girl, be for real. You know Josh has been real shady these past weeks. If you asked me, he did you a favor.”Geneva wiped a tear. “I asked him if he was getting cold feet and he waved off my concerns. But he waits until it’s two weeks before our wedding and I’ve paid off for the honeymoon to pull this stunt.” Her chest heaved. “I can’t get my money back. In fact, I just paid up the balances on the wedding cake and banquet hall this morning, and they have a strict no-refund policy.” She clenched her fists. “And, he knew it because I told him last night.”“What a sleaze ball,” Selena said. “You know there are other names I could call him, but I’m saved.”“I can think of some myself, but I’m not apologizing to God because of Josh.”“That slime isn’t worth it.” She sighed through the line. “Are you sure you can’t get your money back?”Geneva bit her lower lip and massaged her temples. “No. I feel bad knowing my father spent twenty-thousand dollars to give me a dream wedding.” She shook her head. “It will remain a dream.” More tears fell. She used her pajama sleeve to wipe them away.“You should sue that jerk. Make him pay half.” Her heart constricted. “That money was my mother’s legacy. When my father received the payout from the insurance policy, he put away my college money and,” she gulped, “Money for my wedding.” She clutched her stomach. “I feel like I squandered what Mommy had to die and give me. She was a deli worker. My mother’s death made me debt free.”“Oh, no. I had no idea. I’m so sorry,” Selena said.Geneva put a hand to her chest. “I’d give back every dime and be buried under student loans, to have her here with me.”“Oh, honey. If you want my mother, you can have mine.”Geneva gave a little laugh. “Selena, you’re a mess.”“Just lightening the air to keep from going after Josh.”Geneva squeezed her eyes shut. “Oh goodness! I forgot I present my dissertation results tomorrow. How am I supposed to get up in front of a room full of people and talk about the effects of autism and career choice when my heart is breaking?” She had intended to practice her oral presentation tomorrow and have Josh run her through the questions. But here she was, with a broken engagement and broken promises, like a model in a sad love song video. Her shoulders sagged and she curled in a fetal position. “My eyes are puffy and red. They might think I was puffing on something. I think I might have to cancel.”She bit her lip. Geneva had coordinated it so she completed her doctorate before getting married. She would then go on her honeymoon and take off the rest of the school year to move into the role of wife. She had crimped and saved to be able to stay home during her first eight months of marriage. Maybe have a baby…Selena balked at that idea, but Geneva treasured the opportunity. Her plan was that over the summer, if God hadn’t opened her womb, she would pursue educational leadership positions or teach college level. Geneva had everything timed just right. Everything except for Josh’s cowardice. “You can and you will do it. I don’t want to hear any talk of postponing your presentation.” Selena’s tone was firm. “Give yourself five minutes. Five minutes of your tears is more than you should devote crying over that loser. You’ve worked too hard and spent too many nights revising that two hundred-page document to quit now. Pull yourself together.”She clenched her fists. “I can’t.” “Geneva Margaret Samson, I’m on my way to your place. By the time I get there, I had better not see you curled up and feeling sorry for yourself. You’d better put some cucumber on your eyes or use some Visine drops but I had better not see puffy, red eyes. As far as I’m concerned, Josh did you a favor.” “I could’ve done without this favor.” Geneva pulled herself into a sitting position. “I’m not curled up…” Not anymore. Her voice broke.“Be there in fifteen. You hear me? You have fifteen minutes,” she said.Geneva swung one leg off her bed. She rested a hand on the bed and lowered her head. She couldn’t do this. Her nose ran and the tears wouldn’t end.“Make that fourteen minutes and ten seconds.” The line went dead.Ugh. She placed her other leg on the floor. She knew she only had ten minutes with the way Selena drove. Geneva knew it wasn’t wise but she went on social media and went to Josh’s page. She felt her eyes go wide. Josh had changed his picture. He was all hugged up with two young girls at a party. Her private message box overflowed. Geneva closed her eyes and put the phone on the bed, stifling a sob. Here she was crying while he was partying. She lifted a chin. No way. She had to ride her pride through this humiliation. She had enough to last a lifetime. Then she straightened. “Lord, help me stand,” she whispered.Slowly, she made a fist and stood. Geneva wiped her face and took one step forward. She took another step and more until she was at her desk. Geneva picked up one of her mother’s favorite records and put it in the turntable.Gloria Gaynor’s, I will survive, filled the room.Geneva focused on the lyrics. Soon she began to sing along. She sang until she believed. She would survive. One step at a time.
Ch. 2
“Congratulations, Dr. Samson,” Selena said, pulling her in for a hug. “I’m glad I could listen in. You were amazing. I was quite impressed.”Geneva squeezed her friend tight. They rocked back and forth in their embrace. Hearing her professors introduce her as Dr. Samson had made all her late night studies and midnight papers worth it. Her eyes had misted but she held it together as she shook hands and took pictures. “Thanks for taking the day off to support me, Selena, and for practicing with me last night. I can’t tell you how much that means to me.”“Are you kidding? I had to be here. I’m glad I’m not sitting behind that dreary desk.”The women laughed and broke apart. “Yeah, right. You know you love going into that courtroom as the youngest Latina judge in our county.”Selena snapped her fingers. “And you know it. And, by the way, it’s the youngest Latina judge in the state. Okay.” The wind blew the hat off her head. Selena ran to get it and pushed it down. “It’s so cold out here. I wish I had worn my gloves.”They sauntered toward their vehicles. They were parked side by side. Selena pressed the start button. Her car should be warm and toasty in a couple minutes. Geneva pulled her wool coat close. “It has to be close to zero degrees. I bet we’re going to have snow.”“I hope not.” Selena moaned. “I haven’t gone shopping for boots yet.”Geneva rolled her eyes. “You have at least ten pairs in your closet. It’s a good thing we wear the same shoe size. I’ve saved so much money because of you.”Selena gave her a playful slap. Then shivered. “What I wouldn’t give to be in Jamaica right now.”“Me too.” Geneva blew into her hands.“What do you mean, me too?” Selena put her hands on her hips. “You have a paid trip to Jamaica.”Geneva raised a brow. “And?”“Do you need me to spell it out?” Selena asked. Then she wagged a finger. “I know you. I know you thought about it.”She touched her chin. “I did, but it’s the honeymoon suite. I’ll look pitiful curled up in there all by myself.”“So? Call them and change rooms.” Selena pointed to her head. “You’ve got to change your mindset. Consider that vacation your reward for earning your dissertation. You go, girl. You did it.” Selena broke into a praise jig and then sang, “Dr. Samson in full effect.”Geneva giggled. “Your age is showing. I don’t know who says that anymore.”Her neck swung back and forth. “I do.” She broke into the Prep and sang, “Geneva in full effect.”“You taking it way back doing the Prep,” Geneva said, mimicking her. They did a broke-down version of the Kid-N-Play, another dance move from the nineties, before they cracked up laughing. “I love you, girl,” Geneva said. “It’s only with you I get this silly.”“That’s what best friends are for.” Selena gave her a kiss on the cheek. “I’d better get to the courthouse. My bailiff friend might be worried about me.” She unlocked her door and jumped inside.“Leave those young men alone, Selena.”“Jennifer Lopez and Demi Moore have nothing on me.” With a wave, she pulled off.
Ch. 3
Geneva entered her Camry and started the car. She shivered and turned up the heat. While the car warmed up, Geneva rested her head on the steering wheel and prayed. “Lord, I thank You for seeing me through. I couldn’t have done this without You. Thank You for bringing everything back to my memory. Thank You for helping me rise above.”She set her music to Kirk Franklin and sang on her way home. Geneva was determined to praise her pain away. The more she sang, the less she thought of he-whose-name-shall-not-be-called.Geneva pulled into the drive-through to get herself a breakfast burrito and hash browns. Her stomach had been in knots and she hadn’t eaten. She had a bad case of the nerves and couldn’t risk throwing up in the middle of her presentation.She squinted. There was a brown Durango, two cars ahead. Her heart slammed into her chest. That was Josh’s car. She slipped on her sunglasses and prayed he wouldn’t look through his rearview. But in case he did, Geneva turned up the praise. She rocked out to, “You’re an Overcomer.” If he spotted her, she wanted him seeing her having a good time without him.Geneva kept singing until she forgot about Josh ahead of her. When she received her order, she gave the cashier a genuine smile. Geneva snacked on the fries and drove to the church. She needed to share her good news in person.She parked next to her father’s car and finished her meal. She didn’t want the usual lecture on healthy eating. Then she scurried inside, bracing herself against the wind. The temperature had dropped several degrees. Her feet were freezing in her pumps. She rubbed her hands. Tonight she was pulling out her boots.Once inside, Geneva headed to her father’s office. She plopped her coat over a chair.“How did you do?” Pastor Samson asked.She spread her hands and grinned. “You’re now looking at Dr. Geneva Samson.”He clapped his hands and came from around his desk to give her a hug. She enjoyed the warmth of wool sweater. “Congratulations, Doctor. I’m so proud. I wish Maggie was here to see you.”Geneva smiled. “I’ve decided to go on my honeymoon.”His brows rose to his forehead. “Without a husband?”She looked at her feet. “That’s too much money to waste. I plan on calling the resort and having them downgrade my room.”“I’d come with you but you know we have our convention coming up.”She nodded. “Selena can’t come, either. She had already put in for her cruise in March and the other judges are going on their family vacations.” She shrugged. “The resort is all inclusive and there are daily excursions. But I plan to relax, sleep late and read on the beach.”Pastor Samson’s chest puffed. “You’re a survivor just like Maggie. She would’ve done the same thing.” He gestured to the phone. “Why don’t you call them now? Your reservations are only a couple weeks away so if you’re going to make changes, do it now.”Geneva went over to his computer and pulled up her travel information. She used the landline to call the Iberia Resort. One of her teacher friends had stayed there during her trip to Montego Bay, and had highly recommended the five-star establishment. Her father leaned against the door jam and folded his hands.“Welcome to the Iberia Resort. How may I direct your call?”“I’m calling to change my reservation.” Geneva supplied her travel information. “I had the honeymoon suite booked and I wanted to change rooms and possibly get a refund on the difference?” “Let me see what we can do.” He spoke and moved so fast she wasn’t able to answer. Geneva tapped her fingers on the desk to the tune of the hold music. She cupped the phone. “I’m waiting to see.”“I’ve got a meeting,” her father said. He grabbed a notebook and threw her a kiss.“Ma’am? Unfortunately, we were not able to offer you a refund, as the package was non-refundable. Also, because we are hosting a destination wedding that weekend, we are full to capacity. But I have great news. I was able to book you into another suite. It features two master bedrooms and shared dining. I hope this is a better solution?” Disappointing news sounded pleasant with that lilting accent. She scrunched her nose. “I’ll take it.” “Okay, Ms. Samson, you’re all set. We look forward to your visit to the beautiful Montego Bay and trust you will enjoy your stay at the Iberia Resort. May I help you with anything else?” “Uh, yes, I will be there,” she said, though she hadn’t processed everything he saidShe touched her chest. She was going to an island she’d never been before. Alone. The reality was daunting. Geneva’s heart raced. She had traveled abroad before but with the singles group from her church. She’d been to Rome and London but this was supposed to have been her honeymoon. Her shoulders sagged. The thought of being in a two-bedroom suite by herself depressed her.Geneva toyed with her dress shirt collar. “Lord, I know I’m not alone, but I would prefer to take this trip with another human.” She printed out her vacation information. When it was finished, Geneva held the stack in her hand. She reviewed the documents. Joshua’s plane ticket had printed with hers. His name was below hers in everything. She snorted. “I wish I knew another Joshua James, caused I’d take him with me.” She chuckled. That joke slowly morphed in a consideration.Geneva tilted her head. Why couldn’t she take another Joshua James with her? What if there was someone in her county with the same name? She shook her head. Why was she even dwelling on that insane idea? Except…It might not be that farfetched. Joshua James was a common name, like Bob Smith. Geneva rushed over to the computer. She tapped in his name and her town in the search bar. Her mouth dropped. There were three in her county. She leaned back in the chair and looked up at the ceiling. What if one of them was crazy enough to take her up on her offer?She squinted. How would she reach them? Her eyes widened. She had the best marketing tool at her fingertips.Social media.She grinned.
Perfect.
Order Your Copy
January 5, 2017
Welcome Patricia A. Saunders of the Seducing the Pen Book Tour
This Too Shall Pass
by Patricia A. Saunders
This book of poetry spans the journey of life, death, grief, love, and weathering all storms. When life has thrown you curveballs and you think that it’s over, no one is there for you, or no one can love you, it is in those moments when you have to hang on. There is hope, there is love, and there is a second chance. You just have to believe that this too shall pass!
Poetry from Too Shall Pass
POEM: Bang, Bang
Bang, Bang!
As kids we played cowboys and Indians
Got older and it was cops and robbers
Bang, Bang! was so innocent
Parents would buy toy guns
Boys would pretend to shoot, get hit, fall down and die
Some things changed over the years
The games became reality
Guns are brought to schools
Drive-by shootings are killing little babies
Bang, Bang!
Someone call 911
There are killings taking place everywhere
Churches, movie theaters, college campuses, Shady Hook, Planned Parenthood
Unarmed or armed
Bang, Bang!
You’re dead!
POEM: I Melt
When I see your eyes
I fall in love all over again
Never thought I would feel like this
Though I carried you
Saw you grow within me
Seeing you lie on my chest
I Melt
When you open your eyes
Looking at me as you nurse from my breast
I smile because I love you
You are my legacy
You are my world
I Melt
The blessing of the birth of a child
Some take for granted
Some don’t want to go through it
I look at you and I can’t imagine
Your tiny fingers touch mine
And I …
I Melt
POEM: 5-Year Sentence
You had the cancer scare
You had it cut out
You had treatments
You learned how to breathe again
You were exercising
Being healthy is what you always were
Doctor said you have a 10% chance it can come back
5 years is what they told you
Let’s count together 1-2-3
So as your friends were dying off
From different types of cancer
Your mortality was in question
You started saying you lived a good life
You needed to finish everything you put on your bucket list
You were scaring your spouse
Where was your faith?
A tear ran down your cheek
You said, “I have 5 years!”
( Continued... )
© 2016 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Patricia A. Saunders. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.
Purchase book by Patricia A. Saunders
http://www.amazon.com/Patricia-A.-Saunders/e/B008DOOOCK
Patricia A. Saunders’ Bibliography:§ Through the Fire § Loving Me § Let It Rain § This Too Shall Pass
Follow Author Patricia A. Saunders:§ On her Official Website§ On Twitter§ On Facebook§ On Pinterest
Listen to AuthorHouse Author Patricia A. Saunders:§ On In The Company of Poets
Intimate Conversation with Patricia A. Saunders
Self-published, award winning author, Patricia A. Saunders was born and raised in Connecticut before relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area nearly 20 years ago. She received her Master’s in Management from the University of Phoenix in 2011. After the passing of her mother who had Alzheimer’s, Patricia decided that all the words that she kept to herself were to be released.
In March of 2016, she released her fourth book This Too Shall Pass, this book of poetry touches on the subject of suicide, death, love and faith. Her work has been featured on In the Company of Poet, Women Owned Business Club Magazine, and Coach Deb Bailey Secret of Success Talk Radio. She performs locally at spoken word events and Capital Jazz SuperCruise Open Mic with Grammy Award Winner Eric Roberson. Her segment on In the Company of Poets “Patricia A. Saunders I am a Poet” won an Ursula Award.
Patricia is a proud member of the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment and she is a monthly blogger to Blessed & Curvy http://blessedpoetpat.blogspot.com. Ms. Saunders recently was one contributing writer of 300 women across the world for Sister with Ink Voices (Hill-Dudley, 2013).
Patricia works as a supervisor for a corporate financial organization. In her spare time, Patricia enjoys writing poetry, traveling, spending time with family and wine tasting. Her books are available at your local book retailers and at www.patriciaasaunders.com, www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com
BPM: How did you get to be where you are in your life today? By the faith of God because there has been challenges. Who or what motivated you?
My parents motivated me by understanding that no one can take from you what you don’t give them. When I was going through all of my storms in life I was reminded of my faith.
BPM: Who does your body of literary work speak to?
It speaks to those who have loved and been wrong, it speaks to those grieving and those who have thought about giving up.
BPM: Do you consider authors as role models?
No, I think an author is someone who sheds light on various topics and people can take from it to make decisions.
BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I always wrote poetry as a kid but as an adult when my Mother first was diagnosed with dementia it made me think what if I get the disease what about my words. Why now? Once she passed and had Alzheimer’s my pledge was to write until the pen stopped.
BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Re-living memories of my past that were filled with laughs, good times, and sharing with focus groups.
BPM: Where do your book ideas come from?
My books are birthed out of experiences, media, and anything that strikes me. This Too Shall Pass is poetry and some of the pieces are autobiographical. Why? It was easier to release my feelings.
BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work?
I went through a deep depression in 2007 and three women sent me words of encouragement to hang on. I saved those notes and it inspired me to write “This Too Shall Pass” because I came through those storms. This book is now available on Nook and Kindle.
BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special?
When reading the book you can’t put it down because the emotion it takes you through. There is poetry about being in a toxic relationship, growing older, death, and faith. You want to turn the page and either relate to the situation or gather some encouragement yourself to make it through.
BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book?
My mother was an ordained minister so I can’t help but write about faith yet there is struggles that I faced that I questioned God.
BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
My book of poetry talks about adultery, Christianity, suicide, and more. A person young or old would be able to relate.
BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I learned that I made it through those storms that I thought would kill me. I learned that when I sat down to write the book so many words flowed that I didn’t expect.
BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
I love my Saturday Morning Hair Salon Divas. We talk about everything and they helped me work through the pieces when telling about experiences.
BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
I wanted to write a book that another person could pick up and though it was poetry making it simple so that they got the intent, complex to keep other’s attention, and not too preachy so that everyone would get the message.
BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
I am preparing to start working on the 5th book of poetry.
BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/blessedpoetpat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorPoetPatricia
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6034696.Patricia_A_Saunders
by Patricia A. Saunders
This book of poetry spans the journey of life, death, grief, love, and weathering all storms. When life has thrown you curveballs and you think that it’s over, no one is there for you, or no one can love you, it is in those moments when you have to hang on. There is hope, there is love, and there is a second chance. You just have to believe that this too shall pass!
Poetry from Too Shall Pass
POEM: Bang, Bang
Bang, Bang!
As kids we played cowboys and Indians
Got older and it was cops and robbers
Bang, Bang! was so innocent
Parents would buy toy guns
Boys would pretend to shoot, get hit, fall down and die
Some things changed over the years
The games became reality
Guns are brought to schools
Drive-by shootings are killing little babies
Bang, Bang!
Someone call 911
There are killings taking place everywhere
Churches, movie theaters, college campuses, Shady Hook, Planned Parenthood
Unarmed or armed
Bang, Bang!
You’re dead!
POEM: I Melt
When I see your eyes
I fall in love all over again
Never thought I would feel like this
Though I carried you
Saw you grow within me
Seeing you lie on my chest
I Melt
When you open your eyes
Looking at me as you nurse from my breast
I smile because I love you
You are my legacy
You are my world
I Melt
The blessing of the birth of a child
Some take for granted
Some don’t want to go through it
I look at you and I can’t imagine
Your tiny fingers touch mine
And I …
I Melt
POEM: 5-Year Sentence
You had the cancer scare
You had it cut out
You had treatments
You learned how to breathe again
You were exercising
Being healthy is what you always were
Doctor said you have a 10% chance it can come back
5 years is what they told you
Let’s count together 1-2-3
So as your friends were dying off
From different types of cancer
Your mortality was in question
You started saying you lived a good life
You needed to finish everything you put on your bucket list
You were scaring your spouse
Where was your faith?
A tear ran down your cheek
You said, “I have 5 years!”
( Continued... )
© 2016 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Patricia A. Saunders. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.
Purchase book by Patricia A. Saunders
http://www.amazon.com/Patricia-A.-Saunders/e/B008DOOOCK
Patricia A. Saunders’ Bibliography:§ Through the Fire § Loving Me § Let It Rain § This Too Shall Pass
Follow Author Patricia A. Saunders:§ On her Official Website§ On Twitter§ On Facebook§ On Pinterest
Listen to AuthorHouse Author Patricia A. Saunders:§ On In The Company of Poets
Intimate Conversation with Patricia A. Saunders
Self-published, award winning author, Patricia A. Saunders was born and raised in Connecticut before relocating to the San Francisco Bay Area nearly 20 years ago. She received her Master’s in Management from the University of Phoenix in 2011. After the passing of her mother who had Alzheimer’s, Patricia decided that all the words that she kept to herself were to be released.In March of 2016, she released her fourth book This Too Shall Pass, this book of poetry touches on the subject of suicide, death, love and faith. Her work has been featured on In the Company of Poet, Women Owned Business Club Magazine, and Coach Deb Bailey Secret of Success Talk Radio. She performs locally at spoken word events and Capital Jazz SuperCruise Open Mic with Grammy Award Winner Eric Roberson. Her segment on In the Company of Poets “Patricia A. Saunders I am a Poet” won an Ursula Award.
Patricia is a proud member of the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment and she is a monthly blogger to Blessed & Curvy http://blessedpoetpat.blogspot.com. Ms. Saunders recently was one contributing writer of 300 women across the world for Sister with Ink Voices (Hill-Dudley, 2013).
Patricia works as a supervisor for a corporate financial organization. In her spare time, Patricia enjoys writing poetry, traveling, spending time with family and wine tasting. Her books are available at your local book retailers and at www.patriciaasaunders.com, www.amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com
BPM: How did you get to be where you are in your life today? By the faith of God because there has been challenges. Who or what motivated you?
My parents motivated me by understanding that no one can take from you what you don’t give them. When I was going through all of my storms in life I was reminded of my faith.
BPM: Who does your body of literary work speak to?
It speaks to those who have loved and been wrong, it speaks to those grieving and those who have thought about giving up.
BPM: Do you consider authors as role models?
No, I think an author is someone who sheds light on various topics and people can take from it to make decisions.
BPM: What inspired you to sit down and actually start writing this book?
I always wrote poetry as a kid but as an adult when my Mother first was diagnosed with dementia it made me think what if I get the disease what about my words. Why now? Once she passed and had Alzheimer’s my pledge was to write until the pen stopped.
BPM: What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
Re-living memories of my past that were filled with laughs, good times, and sharing with focus groups.
BPM: Where do your book ideas come from?
My books are birthed out of experiences, media, and anything that strikes me. This Too Shall Pass is poetry and some of the pieces are autobiographical. Why? It was easier to release my feelings.
BPM: Could you tell us something about your most recent work?
I went through a deep depression in 2007 and three women sent me words of encouragement to hang on. I saved those notes and it inspired me to write “This Too Shall Pass” because I came through those storms. This book is now available on Nook and Kindle.
BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters or speakers. What makes each one so special?
When reading the book you can’t put it down because the emotion it takes you through. There is poetry about being in a toxic relationship, growing older, death, and faith. You want to turn the page and either relate to the situation or gather some encouragement yourself to make it through.
BPM: Are there under-represented groups or ideas featured in your book?
My mother was an ordained minister so I can’t help but write about faith yet there is struggles that I faced that I questioned God.
BPM: How does your book relate to your present situation or journey?
My book of poetry talks about adultery, Christianity, suicide, and more. A person young or old would be able to relate.
BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing your book?
I learned that I made it through those storms that I thought would kill me. I learned that when I sat down to write the book so many words flowed that I didn’t expect.
BPM: Can you share some stories about people you met while researching this book?
I love my Saturday Morning Hair Salon Divas. We talk about everything and they helped me work through the pieces when telling about experiences.
BPM: What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?
I wanted to write a book that another person could pick up and though it was poetry making it simple so that they got the intent, complex to keep other’s attention, and not too preachy so that everyone would get the message.
BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
I am preparing to start working on the 5th book of poetry.
BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/blessedpoetpat
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorPoetPatricia
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6034696.Patricia_A_Saunders
January 4, 2017
Book Review: Lust by Victoria Christopher Murray
Lust: A Seven Deadly Sins Novel by Victoria Christopher MurrayMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
First of all, Victoria Christopher Murray is the queen of the opening sentence and she brings it again in Lust, the first of the Seven Deadly Sins series. After reading Lust, I am convinced Victoria Christopher Murray is a writer chameleon. I think she could write any genre she chooses, and do it well. A+ for the descriptions, the jargon, the authenticity of the characters. This was Bold writing.
As the title suggests, Lust is a gripping, highly sensual read. Ladies, keep your legs pressed close and the fan on high, because this is Grown Folks Business. A key lesson is that even when we know better and want to do better, our baser urges takes over and we can either ride it or fight it. Those of us who know how to truly fight temptation are without excuse. We also know there are consequences. The question is, can we live with them?
My absolute favorite scene was how Damon handled his business. He handled it well. Trust. There was only a minor minor interaction that I didn't think was needed for such a strong page-turner, but why am I nitpicking when a book delivers?
A question to consider: Is there a difference between lust and love and do we confuse the two?
A Couple of favorite quotes from Lust:
"The truth always end up shining bright when you watched and waited."
"...whether the devil is outside or whether he has wormed his way inside, he is defeated."
*** I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.
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About the Book
From the NAACP Image award winner and national bestselling author Victoria Christopher Murray, a novel inspired by the seven deadly sins about a woman caught between an entertainment mogul with a shady past and his childhood friend who is out for revenge.
Tiffanie has lived a sheltered life in a very strict household with her pastor-grandfather and grandmother in Washington, DC. But when she meets Damon King, she falls for the successful entertainment business man despite his history as a drug dealer. Everyone sees nothing but the brightest future for the couple—but there’s one person who wants to destroy them.
Trey Johnson is Damon’s childhood best friend with whom he built quite a successful drug business. But when the game got hot and Damon decided to leave, Trey stayed and continued to sell drugs, until he was arrested and spent seven years in prison.
But now he’s out and able to attend the wedding. While Damon is thrilled to have Trey back and hopes to bring his best friend into his business, Trey has other plans. He blames Damon for his demise and plans to ruin him, even if that means bringing Tiffanie down as well.
Trey is sure he will succeed, but he doesn’t know that there will be deadly consequences. And at the end, there will only be one man standing…
Release Date: February 7, 2017
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January 3, 2017
Get Caught Up with Kristina Smith of Seducing the Pen Book Tour
About the BookA group of friends brought together by blood, fate, and circumstances is about to learn that life is full of ups and downs, joys and sorrows, and love and loss. Kennedy Valentine-Daniels is a force to be reckoned with, and sustained in life by her faith in God, inner-strength, and the family and friends that surround her. Unfortunately, sometimes they are the same people who test her sanity-especially her husband, Preston. Michalah Valentine, Kennedy's baby sister, hates traveling outside of her box. However, when events in life annihilate her box completely, Michalah must somehow learn to survive. Nevertheless she is fun to watch!
Newlyweds, Jordan and Maxwell Banks are living in bliss-until something from their past threatens the foundation of their relationship. Is the Honeymoon over? Tia St. James is the wildcard of the group and Kennedy's closest friend. She finds love again in an old friend, after a stale relationship ends. But there is only one problem: now her friendship with Kennedy is in jeopardy.
About Kristina Smith Kristina Smith has been writing since she could hold a pencil. She has a Bachelor’s in English Literature from the University of Houston-Downtown and a Master’s Degree from Walden University. She lives in Houston, TX where she teaches children to strive for excellence, and foster a love for creativity. When not writing or teaching, she spends her free time with family, friends, and nature, as well as traveling around the world exploring new cultures. Her love of music and quirky sense of humor is prevalent throughout her debut novel: Caught Up.
Order Caught Up by Kristina Smith Available on BN, iBooks and Amazon
https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/caught-up/id942688126?mt=11 https://www.amazon.com/Caught-Up-Kristina-Smith/dp/1483417611 https://www.amazon.com/Caught-Up-Kristina-Smith-ebook/dp/B00R1PINS
Intimate Conversation with Kristina SmithKristina Smith has been writing since she could hold a pencil. She has a Bachelor’s in English Literature from the University of Houston-Downtown and a Master’s Degree from Walden University. She lives in Houston, TX where she teaches children to strive for excellence, and foster a love for creativity. When not writing or teaching, she spends her free time with family, friends, and nature, as well as traveling around the world exploring new cultures. Her love of music and quirky sense of humor is prevalent throughout her debut novel: Caught Up. She describes Caught Up as more of a journey than a novel, a story where the characters become part of your life and you can’t help but to fall in love with them. There are life lessons of love, forgiveness, support, and faith sprinkled throughout, but mostly the book is just what it should be; something to get lost inside of. It’s the book you read by the pool, on the beach, curled up on the couch under your favorite blanket. With everything moving at such a fast pace these days, it’s good practice to take a break and let your soul be entertained by characters that become family!
BPM: When did you first get the inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing?My third grade teacher used to make us use our spelling words in a story and when she wasn’t correcting my behavior, she would encourage my writing. I figured out that writing was not only fun for me, but a way to channel my energy, deal with issues, and make real life more exciting and at times, livable.
BPM: Tell us about your passion for writing. What drives you?My passion for writing comes from blasting real life situation into entertaining stories, sometimes writing people as I see their alter egos or what they might do when put in tight situations. The passion is in pouring your mind out on paper and what drives me is seeing the reader feel all of the emotions that they get out of each character; be it laughing until your side hurts, tearing up because they have been through something similar, getting heated by a love scene, or connecting with a character because they see some of themselves or know someone like them.
BPM: Can you share a little of your book with us and introduce the book and characters?The story is built around the relationship of four women who have grown up together since childhood and how life and real world challenges push in to threaten not only their individual sanities, but their friendships with each other. Kennedy is supposed to be written as the Alpha female/mother hen of the group, but finds out that she needs the rest of them to keep her together. Michalah is Kennedy’s baby sister who does and says what she wants, and is more than protective of her sister. Tia and Jordan are friends with both women and while they don’t admit it, look to Kennedy for guidance and sometimes approval.
All four of them have voices in the book as well as the two husbands; Preston with Kennedy, and Maxwell with Jordan. While Preston seems to be lost without Kennedy, his best friend Maxwell is seemingly the perfect catch. Though each make mistakes, they all mean well and will have to depend on God and each other for what is coming for them.
BPM: Did you learn anything personal from writing this book?I learned a lot about myself through each character, and more so that no matter who I thought each character should have been; they all took on their own persona and sort of told me what to write about them. I learned that I am more sensitive than I thought I was to certain human conditions. Also Kennedy’s character became more of a problem for me to write because her experiences hit close to home on some levels in my life, even now.
BPM: Are there any scenes borrowed from your world or your experiences?All four women are loosely based off of myself, my sister, and two of my friends. Preston is based on a mistake that Thank God I did not make (yes I am laughing here), and Maxwell is just the guy that I mashed together from the conversations of what my friends considered “The One”. The situations they are put in are fictional (mostly), but the way each character would have handled the circumstance is maybe spot on? There are some surprise supporting characters.
BPM: What advice would you give your younger self?I would go back and tell her about what is going on in my life now and remind her to hold on to that childlike faith that I had as a young girl who believed that anything is possible with God, belief, prayer, and hard work. I would also tell her to learn how to be still sometimes and watch the wonders of faith at work and be thankful for everything; the lessons and the blessings! I would tell her to enjoy life, stay her eccentric self and start traveling a lot earlier, and keep leaping! My mom actually thought that I was going to end up living in the rainforest!
BPM: What was your primary quest in publishing this book? Why now?This book sat on the shelf for years as a passion project. I let a few friends read it and after every chapter made my sister listen to me think out loud about it; all agreed that it was something that needed to be published. After rereading this story and my other writings I began to see myself as a writer and one day a published writer. A few years later I became friends with an individual who had a drive for their dream that I recognized in my old self and took the leap to have it publish and ended up doing it myself. Funny how people come into your life and inspire just by being themselves for that one moment. (This will one day be another book)
BPM: What are a few things different about your book?There are two key differences I feel that makes this story different. The first is that I didn’t write it in any particular genre style, which becomes difficult when categorizing, because it has all the elements that I like to read. There are parts that are romantic, hilarious, action packed, heartwarming and heartbreaking, and a bit of suspense. The only theme that carries throughout the story is love and what it makes us humans do.
The second difference is what I consider my writing soundtrack. For each section when a new character is about to speak, you’ll notice a song at the beginning. Sometimes it sets up the section, and sometimes it is what I was feeling at the moment I was writing. Music (listening) is a huge part of me when I write and the songs are multi genre as well.
Order Caught Up by Kristina Smith Available on BN, iBooks and Amazon314 Pages > Kindle eBook > RomanceLink: https://amzn.com/B00R1PINS8
January 2, 2017
Welcome WNL Tours
Write Now Literary is pleased to announce Anika’s Story Book Release Tour with author LaToya Murchison, January 3, 2017.Publication Date: December 31, 2016Genre: Non-fiction
About The Book
Depression, healing, and forgiveness played a huge role in Anika Sims life. At first glance, you would think Anika has her life together. She is the CEO of Regal Publishing LLC. She has five New York Best Sellers and is the youth minister at her church. However, behind the smile that she always carries is a woman filled with pain and moments of depression. Anika's Story: will show you the importance of making peace with your past and forgiving those that have hurt you.About The Author
LaToya Murchison is a Woman After God’s Own Heart. LaToya was born and raised in Southern Pines, NC and started writing poetry as a junior in high school. LaToya found that writing allowed her to be creative and eventually discovered her interest in becoming a published author. After graduating from high school and uncertain of her career path, she attended and received an Associate Degree in Office Systems Technology from Sandhills Community College in Pinehurst, N.C.LaToya is passionate about encouraging, helping, and building up others. She gave her life over to Christ 8 years ago and is the best decision she ever made. At the age of 18 doctors told her that she would not live to see the age of 25. On August 2, 2016 she turned 38 years old and she continues to give God all the thanks daily because she knows that if it had not been for the plan and the favor that he had set for her life before she was born she would not be here today. LaToya loves to spread the word of God everywhere she goes.In LaToya created a Facebook Group named D.O.V.E Daughters of Virtue with a mission to unite women who strive to encourage and empower other women and members of their community. She created dove to promote unconditional love, peace unity and the importance of understanding and respecting women’s individual’s rights to choose a spiritual path.LaToya serves as Media Director, Vacation Bible School Director, YPCL Director and Children’s Ministry Assistant at Love Grove Free Will Baptist Church. LaToya published her first book A Praying Heart on November 21, 2014 and her second book Poetic Expressions on May 30, 2015.As a virtual assistant, she has assisted countless authors with developing their online presence. Services include graphic design, social media management, interviews, and e-book fairs. When LaToya isn’t working for a client or doing something literary, she enjoys spending time with family and working with the youth in her church.
Connect with LaToyaWebsite Facebook Twitter Tour hosted by Write Now Literary Book Tours
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December 31, 2016
Book Review: Conspiracy by De'nesha Diamond
Conspiracy by De'nesha DiamondMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Conspiracy took me on a journey. As each chapter unfolded, I was taken in the harsh reality of street-life and human experimentation. Gripping and filled with Political Intrigue. Be patient as the story builds and the author ties it all together leading to a thrilling read. It sort of ends abruptly, which I do not like. But that doesn't take away from the writing craft or suspense displayed in the novel. 3.5 stars
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About the BookBestselling author De nesha Diamond brings her dynamic storytelling talent to D.C. s treacherous corridors of power where scandal is merely the first move in a high-stakes game that makes its own rules
It s an offer too tempting to refuse: One night as an elite escort will give Abrianna Parker the fresh start she s been searching for and put the pain and costly missteps of the past behind her for good. But getting framed for a high-profile murder isn t what the cool-headed beauty signed up for
With police, government agencies, and a lethal third party on her trail, Abrianna will have to use all her resources to clear her name. That includes trusting an ex-con and an attraction as incendiary as the lies they must expose. Now, as Abrianna puts her hard-won instincts and a team of street-rebels in play, secrets are their only chance to dismantle a powerful web of corruption or be buried without a trace
Release Date: December 27, 2016
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