Michelle Lindo-Rice's Blog, page 50
June 2, 2014
Affirmations for Success Book Tour
I'm so pleased to feature Author Michelle A. Roberts on my blog today:
Tell us about your book? An affirmation is a statement that is carefully crafted to address an unwanted pattern and transform it through the use of positive thought. An affirmation or affirming statement can be a phrase that is written down or a statement that is repeated verbally. An affirmation may also be an audio recording that is listened to repeatedly. Affirmations focus attention on the positive outcome of a situation, and are structured to affirm that the positive outcome is already a reality. The Affirmations in this book along with practical application will change your life for the better!
How did you come up with ideas for this book? I have been collecting affirmations for 5 years and used them daily so I decided to share my love and belief with others.
What was the most difficult aspect of writing this book? Organizing the affirmations and coming up with which ones to put in book.
Why do you write? I write to impact everyone who will pick up my writings, so it will Is it something you've always done, or always wanted to do? Or is it something that you started fairly recently? Writing is something I have always wanted to do and have done off and on, I just recently decided on publishing and bringing everything from paper to print.
Any advice to give to aspiring writers? Just go for it and start, yes it may not be perfect , but you can always improve and always get better, but if you never do it you will have regrets and what if’s, don’t leave the earth with an I wish I would have done it. Do it now! Follow your passion and fulfill your dream.
About The BookAn affirmation is a statement that is carefully crafted to address an unwanted pattern and transform it through the use of positive thought. An affirmation or affirming statement can be a phrase that is written down or a statement that is repeated verbally. An affirmation may also be an audio recording that is listened to repeatedly. Affirmations focus attention on the positive outcome of a situation, and are structured to affirm that the positive outcome is already a reality. The Affirmations in this book along with practical application will change your life for the better!
About the Author
Michelle A. Roberts from Atlanta, GA is a fighter and a winner after being married for 17 years I finally came to myself and realized that my drug addicted husband would not change. See I was not raised with my father and always longed for that relationship so I stayed to LONG. I was so depressed I was now carrying 268lbs on 5 foot frame. I thought no one would want a fat girl with 3 babies. I finally took charge of my life. I had life altering surgery gastric by-pass I loss over 110 lbs. Got a divorce, Went back to school and completed a BSM and MA now 2 classes away from starting my Dissertation for my Doctorate. Yes it was hard, yes I cried, yes I complained some times. But I looked at my 3 children and a fight for dear life rose in me.
For More Information:Visit the author online at:Follow me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/michellearobertincWebsite: www.michellearoberts.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/robertstravelserv... @Divamichelle44 Hash-Tag: #AffirmationsForSuccess Amazon Author’s Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/michell...Book Review
If you have read the book, please we do encourage posting book reviews on Amazon.com and other online bookstores.
Tell us about your book? An affirmation is a statement that is carefully crafted to address an unwanted pattern and transform it through the use of positive thought. An affirmation or affirming statement can be a phrase that is written down or a statement that is repeated verbally. An affirmation may also be an audio recording that is listened to repeatedly. Affirmations focus attention on the positive outcome of a situation, and are structured to affirm that the positive outcome is already a reality. The Affirmations in this book along with practical application will change your life for the better!
How did you come up with ideas for this book? I have been collecting affirmations for 5 years and used them daily so I decided to share my love and belief with others.
What was the most difficult aspect of writing this book? Organizing the affirmations and coming up with which ones to put in book.
Why do you write? I write to impact everyone who will pick up my writings, so it will Is it something you've always done, or always wanted to do? Or is it something that you started fairly recently? Writing is something I have always wanted to do and have done off and on, I just recently decided on publishing and bringing everything from paper to print.
Any advice to give to aspiring writers? Just go for it and start, yes it may not be perfect , but you can always improve and always get better, but if you never do it you will have regrets and what if’s, don’t leave the earth with an I wish I would have done it. Do it now! Follow your passion and fulfill your dream.
About The BookAn affirmation is a statement that is carefully crafted to address an unwanted pattern and transform it through the use of positive thought. An affirmation or affirming statement can be a phrase that is written down or a statement that is repeated verbally. An affirmation may also be an audio recording that is listened to repeatedly. Affirmations focus attention on the positive outcome of a situation, and are structured to affirm that the positive outcome is already a reality. The Affirmations in this book along with practical application will change your life for the better!About the Author
Michelle A. Roberts from Atlanta, GA is a fighter and a winner after being married for 17 years I finally came to myself and realized that my drug addicted husband would not change. See I was not raised with my father and always longed for that relationship so I stayed to LONG. I was so depressed I was now carrying 268lbs on 5 foot frame. I thought no one would want a fat girl with 3 babies. I finally took charge of my life. I had life altering surgery gastric by-pass I loss over 110 lbs. Got a divorce, Went back to school and completed a BSM and MA now 2 classes away from starting my Dissertation for my Doctorate. Yes it was hard, yes I cried, yes I complained some times. But I looked at my 3 children and a fight for dear life rose in me.For More Information:Visit the author online at:Follow me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/michellearobertincWebsite: www.michellearoberts.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/robertstravelserv... @Divamichelle44 Hash-Tag: #AffirmationsForSuccess Amazon Author’s Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/michell...Book Review
If you have read the book, please we do encourage posting book reviews on Amazon.com and other online bookstores.
May 26, 2014
Inside Her Soul Book Tour
About the AuthorAuthor | Speaker| Poet| Radio Show HostDetroit native, Jennifer Carr is the President/CEO of soulSPOKEN Expressions, a conglomerate of several companies that empowers and encourages women to express their authentic, true self through the arts. As a poet, author and speaker, she is passionate, devoted and committed to women empowerment and personal development. As a licensed minister and a strong woman who has experienced great trial and tribulation, she believes in sharing her testimony to many women to encourage breakthrough, healing and restoration, spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically. She is a member of the National Association of Professional Women.About The BookAre you ready to remove the bandages, release the bondage and reclaim your true beauty? Hey beautifuls! Yes, you! You are beautiful! Welcome to Inside Her Soul! I would like to thank each and every one of you for taking the time to read this poetic, inspirational and transforming work. I believe that this is NOT by happenstance or a coincidence. There was something that caused you to pick up this book. Perhaps, it was the cover or the title of the book. Or perhaps you are feeling disconnected from your inner self and want to get connected again. Perhaps, you have or had some struggles with your beauty, self-esteem and self-acceptance and desire to love who you are again. Maybe you are experiencing some heartache and trials in your life and you need some encouragement. Or, maybe you have some skeletons in the closet of your past that you need to face and don’t where to begin. If you can identify with any of these issues, you have chosen the right book.I believe that this book was written specifically for you, beautiful!
May 22, 2014
Hot off the Presses! When You Let Go
BOOK CONTEST: The Author is giving away one e-book copy of An Unexpected Blessing( Kindle or Nook Only) To enter go here: http://bit.ly/1v0qb9eBook Title: When You Let GoGenre: Christian Fiction, NovelPublication Date: May 22, 2014Genre: Christian Fiction
About The Book:An answered prayer. An unforeseen betrayal. A family healed by grace.Amara and Ejike Dike had been married for six glorious years. Amara was convinced Ejike, was the perfect gift from God. Loving, charming and very easy on the eyes. They had a beautiful life. Well, not so beautiful. Amara’s inability to bear children made her feel like a less than the perfect mate for her husband.Then after many years, God lifted her faith and had finally heard her cry. The Dikes couldn’t be happier.A surprise visit from Chinelo, Amara’s long lost cousin, turns Amara’s world upside down and threatens to turn her once-perfect existence into ashes.Ejike loved his wife with a passion. They shared a burning desire and faith in God that burned deep. However Chinelo’s appearance would open a Pandora’s Box that had purposely been kept shut.Faced with the loss of all she holds dear, Amara finds herself at crossroads. Would she lean on God’s sustaining grace to let go and travel the rocky path to forgiveness? Or would she throw everything to the wind and walk away?When You Let Go is a novel about people who know what the Word of God instructs but struggle with actually doing it when the chips are down.
About The Author:Born in Akron, Ohio to Nigerian parents. UnomaNwankwor spent her childhood and early adulthood years in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria. She is a romantic at heart and is passionate about telling stories of faith and hope about love. She hope to capture her readers through stories that are faith based with an element of love. After all, “and now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” ~1 Corinthians 13:13She is the published author of An Unexpected Blessing (2013) and The Christmas Ultimatum (2013) and many published flash fiction and short stories. Her work has appeared in Africa Book Club and the Kenyan Ezine ;Wamathai and well as numerous radio shows and blogs. She is currently working on her next novel When You Let Go (May, 2014) and A Scoop of Love (October, 2014).Her readers are in love with her unique way of telling stories that capture the essence of her present home base; Atlanta Georgia and her Nigerian culture. She calls them her God-given stories and strives every day to be a use her gift to His glory.Social Links:Website: http://www.unomanwankwor.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/unwanwkorauthorTwitter handle: https://twitter.com/unwankworEmail: unwankwor@kevstelgroup.comBuy Links: Kindle: http://amzn.to/1sMLGqgNook: http://bit.ly/1o02rk5
Tour Hosted by Write Now Literary Book Tours www.wnlbooktours.com
May 20, 2014
The Christian Writer 101 Book Tour
One winner will be chosen to win a paperback copy of The Christian Writer 101 Raffle for giveaway: a Rafflecopter giveawayBook Title The Christian Writer 101 (Fourth Edition)Genre: Instructional About The Book
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The Christian Writer 101 (Fourth Edition) is author, Nina Fitzhugh Wells' updated version of this concise guide to Christian Self-Publishing. Within the pages are step-by-step instructions for writing, publishing and promoting your Christian book. This educational manual offers all you need to make informed choices concerning your publishing focus. As an update the third edition, it not only boasts the technical and practical pieces, it also extensively covers such topics as: 1) A Complete social media chapter, and 2) Proven marketing and promotions strategies. As well, there are foundational scriptures, wisdom winks, and motivational quotes from literary professionals to further educate and inspire you. This Concise, Precise, Advice Guide is for ALL writers, authors, and self-publishers. About The Author
Nina Fitzhugh Wells has served in education for more than 25 years; in the book publishing business for nearly 15 years; and in the Christian counseling for 10 years. Her calling and passion is for teaching, counseling, and evangelistic outreach. “God has commissioned me to educate and inspire all people; and to offer hope and healing to the lost and hurting,” proclaims Wells, who serve diligently to help others discover, develop, and use their gifts to their highest potential.A native of Philadelphia, PA, Nina Fitzhugh Wells is a Doctor of Education (Ed.D) student at Walden University in Baltimore, Maryland where her focus is Higher Education and Adult Learning. She earned her Master of Arts Degree in Christian Education from the Union Theological Seminary (Now Union Presbytery Seminary) in Richmond, Virginia; and did her undergraduate studies at the Pennsylvania State University in State College, Pennsylvania. She is the author of seven books, including her profound autobiography: “Lost FOUNDation: From Foster Care to God’s Heir” (2009), a highly acclaimed top seller. Currently, she is penning her eighth book - a research-based study - entitled: "Emancipation Revelation: An Exploratory View at Resources and Supports for First Year College Students Who Age-Out of Foster Care," to be published in 2014.Wells is an ordained evangelist and adult educator who serves as Education Director at Kingdom Publishing Group (KPG), a Christian book publishing and promotions company in Richmond, VA. She is credited with helping a diverse group of authors to birth nearly 300 God-inspired books out to the world. Her ministry, books, and education have afforded her many opportunities to reach and teach multitudes of people from diverse communities. She continues to be in high demand as a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, educator and Christian counselor.In addition to publishing, teaching, and motivational speaking, Nina Fitzhugh Wells dedicates much of her time to advocating for youth who age-out of the foster care system. She is the Founder and Executive Director at “Excel HIGHER, Inc.” Through this non-profit organization, Nina works closely with local, state and federal agencies, and colleges and universities by offering resources, programming, and finishing workshops to prepare foster youth as they transition from state support to self-sufficiency. In August 2013, she began hosting a radio show entitled: Revelation For Elevation, which serves to bring awareness to the plight of youth who age-out of foster care; as well as promote advocacy.In July 2010, Nina was inducted into the Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society for Education. As well, she is a member of the Foster Care Alumni of America (FCAA), the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC), and the Independent Book Publishers’ Association (IBPA). As well, she is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA).Nina currently resides in Virginia; and is married to her best friend, Minister Leon Wells, Jr. She purposes to live each day based on the Philippians 4:8 scripture: "Finally Brethren, whatever is things are true, noble, just, pure, lovely and of a good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things.”
Social Links Email:nwells@kingdompublishing.orgWebsite: http://www.kingdompublishing.orgFacebook page: kpgbooksTwitter handle: @kingdomp Tour Hosted by WNL Book Tour www.wnlbooktours.com
May 15, 2014
A Look-For Read: Born at Dawn
I admit, this sounds intriguing! I can't wait to one-click this one.
About the BookThirty-four year old Cynthia Barclay knows that marriage is supposed to be for better or for worse. Unfortunately, for the last ten years of her marriage Cynthia has experienced the worst that marriage has to offer at the hands of her abusive husband Marvin Barclay. With the hope of saving herself and her family she turns to the Lord. Expecting to see God manifest himself greatly in her life sooner than later Cynthia is not content just waiting. She wants out.
Abandoning her hope, her husband, and her two young sons Cynthia boards a bus from New York City to Richmond, Virginia. She begins a new life armed with six thousand dollars on a prepaid credit card, a sketchy plan for success, and a promise to return for her sons. That is until she meets Cheo, a photojournalist with enough connections to take her where she wants to be and forget where she came from.
After six years in Richmond Cynthia’s dark past resurfaces. At the risk of losing it all—her past and her present Cynthia returns home to right her wrongs. Has Cynthia chosen the right time to return home or is it too late for God to restore everything she has broken?
InspirationAs odd as it sounds James Brown's upbringing served as my inspiration for Born at Dawn. Shortly after James Brown death PBS aired a documentary on his life. When he was six years old his mother abandoned him and his father moved him into a brothel where he was raised by his aunt. At that moment when I saw that I understood so much about James Brown, but I also began to wonder what it really is like for a boy to be raised without his mother. Very often we focus on what happens when the father isn't present, and we fail to focus on the children who are failed by the mothers. From there it just grew and morphed into something else as I delved into the characters stories.
BioNigeria Lockley possesses two Master's degrees, one in English Secondary Education, which she utilizes as an educator with the New York City Department of Education. Her second Master's degree is in Creative Writing. Born at Dawn is Nigeria’s first published novel. Nigeria serves as the Vice President of Bridges Family Services, a not-for-profit organization that assists student parents interested in pursuing a degree in higher education. She is also the deaconess and clerk for her spiritual home King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Church of God. Nigeria is a New York native who resides in Harlem with her husband and two daughters.
Pre-order/Purchase Born at Dawn
The Burning Bush Bookstore: http://bit.ly/1sJAY6KAmazon: http://amzn.to/1i6VKs0Barnes and Noble:http://bit.ly/1izSGRUBooks-a-Million: http://bit.ly/1gRLvTV
Connect with Nigeria
Website: www.nigerialockley.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/authornigerialockley.com
Twitter and Instagram: @newnigeria
About the BookThirty-four year old Cynthia Barclay knows that marriage is supposed to be for better or for worse. Unfortunately, for the last ten years of her marriage Cynthia has experienced the worst that marriage has to offer at the hands of her abusive husband Marvin Barclay. With the hope of saving herself and her family she turns to the Lord. Expecting to see God manifest himself greatly in her life sooner than later Cynthia is not content just waiting. She wants out.
Abandoning her hope, her husband, and her two young sons Cynthia boards a bus from New York City to Richmond, Virginia. She begins a new life armed with six thousand dollars on a prepaid credit card, a sketchy plan for success, and a promise to return for her sons. That is until she meets Cheo, a photojournalist with enough connections to take her where she wants to be and forget where she came from.
After six years in Richmond Cynthia’s dark past resurfaces. At the risk of losing it all—her past and her present Cynthia returns home to right her wrongs. Has Cynthia chosen the right time to return home or is it too late for God to restore everything she has broken?
InspirationAs odd as it sounds James Brown's upbringing served as my inspiration for Born at Dawn. Shortly after James Brown death PBS aired a documentary on his life. When he was six years old his mother abandoned him and his father moved him into a brothel where he was raised by his aunt. At that moment when I saw that I understood so much about James Brown, but I also began to wonder what it really is like for a boy to be raised without his mother. Very often we focus on what happens when the father isn't present, and we fail to focus on the children who are failed by the mothers. From there it just grew and morphed into something else as I delved into the characters stories.
BioNigeria Lockley possesses two Master's degrees, one in English Secondary Education, which she utilizes as an educator with the New York City Department of Education. Her second Master's degree is in Creative Writing. Born at Dawn is Nigeria’s first published novel. Nigeria serves as the Vice President of Bridges Family Services, a not-for-profit organization that assists student parents interested in pursuing a degree in higher education. She is also the deaconess and clerk for her spiritual home King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Church of God. Nigeria is a New York native who resides in Harlem with her husband and two daughters.
Pre-order/Purchase Born at Dawn
The Burning Bush Bookstore: http://bit.ly/1sJAY6KAmazon: http://amzn.to/1i6VKs0Barnes and Noble:http://bit.ly/1izSGRUBooks-a-Million: http://bit.ly/1gRLvTV
Connect with Nigeria
Website: www.nigerialockley.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/authornigerialockley.com
Twitter and Instagram: @newnigeria
May 14, 2014
Her Heart's Desire by Lisa Watson
Lisa Watson's Her Heart's Desire Online Book Tour
About
the BookLove’s
his only missionAfter
a series of dating disasters, Tiffany Gentry isn’t ready to risk her heart
again. Just when she decides it’s safer to stay single, the Chicago boutique
owner meets Colonel Ivan Mangum. The gorgeous military hero is an expert in
security. Yet Tiffany has no defense against Ivan’s sensual maneuvers….Ivan
knows that Tiffany should stop looking for Mr. Right—she has already found him!
From romantic city nights to a passionate tryst at his mountain retreat, Ivan
uses every seductive weapon in his arsenal to prove he’s her true soul mate.
But when their future together is threatened, will this soldier find a way to
turn his dream of love into a mission possible?
Add captionAbout
the AuthorA native of Washington D.C., the city's historic and
political backdrop fed Lisa Watson's romantic imagination. Lisa has written
several multi-cultural novellas and novels, and loves creating engaging
storylines with strong characters that are drawn together by respect and love.
Lisa works at a technology consulting firm, and is the co-publicist for RT Book
Review Magazine's annual RT Booklovers Conventions.
Lisa's Amazon Bestselling novel for Harlequin's KIMANI™ ROMANCE, Love Contract,
is book one of The Match Broker series. Book two, Her Heart's Desire is coming
May 2014, and book three, Love by Design in Fall 2014. Her new holiday
novellas, A Heart for Christmas (2nd Edition), and Two Hearts for Christmas, in
the Love at Christmastime series is available on Amazon.com,
Barnes & Noble, Kobo Books and Allromanceebooks.com.
Lisa lives outside Raleigh, NC and is married with two teenagers, and a
Maltipoo, Brinkley. Connect with Lisa on Facebook (NCLisaWatson), Twitter
(@LisaYWatson), and at www.lisawatson.com.Purchase the Book Online at:Amazon.comBarnesandNoble.com
Visit the author online at:
www.lisawatson.com
Aboutthe BookLove’s
his only missionAfter
a series of dating disasters, Tiffany Gentry isn’t ready to risk her heart
again. Just when she decides it’s safer to stay single, the Chicago boutique
owner meets Colonel Ivan Mangum. The gorgeous military hero is an expert in
security. Yet Tiffany has no defense against Ivan’s sensual maneuvers….Ivan
knows that Tiffany should stop looking for Mr. Right—she has already found him!
From romantic city nights to a passionate tryst at his mountain retreat, Ivan
uses every seductive weapon in his arsenal to prove he’s her true soul mate.
But when their future together is threatened, will this soldier find a way to
turn his dream of love into a mission possible?
Add captionAboutthe AuthorA native of Washington D.C., the city's historic and
political backdrop fed Lisa Watson's romantic imagination. Lisa has written
several multi-cultural novellas and novels, and loves creating engaging
storylines with strong characters that are drawn together by respect and love.
Lisa works at a technology consulting firm, and is the co-publicist for RT Book
Review Magazine's annual RT Booklovers Conventions.
Lisa's Amazon Bestselling novel for Harlequin's KIMANI™ ROMANCE, Love Contract,
is book one of The Match Broker series. Book two, Her Heart's Desire is coming
May 2014, and book three, Love by Design in Fall 2014. Her new holiday
novellas, A Heart for Christmas (2nd Edition), and Two Hearts for Christmas, in
the Love at Christmastime series is available on Amazon.com,
Barnes & Noble, Kobo Books and Allromanceebooks.com.
Lisa lives outside Raleigh, NC and is married with two teenagers, and a
Maltipoo, Brinkley. Connect with Lisa on Facebook (NCLisaWatson), Twitter
(@LisaYWatson), and at www.lisawatson.com.Purchase the Book Online at:Amazon.comBarnesandNoble.com
Visit the author online at:
www.lisawatson.com
May 8, 2014
NEW RELEASE: Color Blind
God had to blind him for him to truly see.
The first of the "Able to Love" series.
Click to PurchaseAbout the BookAn accident has robbed Saul Sweeterman of his sight. Angry at the world, Aniyah ‘Annie’ Hays is the only person who can reach him. Her voice draws him like a siren. Saul falls for Annie hard and fast, not knowing that she’s of a different race.
As a physical therapist, Annie prides herself on her professionalism. But one glance into Saul’s deep blue eyes and she’s a goner. She’s falling in love and loving it, until she learns Saul opposes interracial relationships.
Since her heart refuses to cooperate, Annie wonders, Will Saul reject her because of the color of her skin? Loosely based on the story of Saul and the prophet Ananias, Color Blind promises to answer the question, Can you tell your heart who to love?From the AuthorSeveral years ago, I self-published two of my full-length novels. One of them, Walk A Straight Line has been revamped, rewritten and revised for Urban Christian Books. Color Blind is my third attempt at self-publishing. The difference, however, is that I'm now an educated author.
I approached my indie novella like I would my other works. First, I have an amazing cover design. Next, I worked with professional, reputable editors. Why? I want every reader to get a quality piece of work. I want every reader to get their money's work.
I'm am so excited to see my efforts pay off! What makes Color Blind unique is that it targets two distinct readers: Interracial romance readers and Christian fiction readers, as well as Romance readers, of course.
About the SeriesColor Blind is Book One of the "Able to Love"series. As a special educator, I've had the opportunity to work with many students with varied disabilities. These students overcome many obstacles to achieve. To honor them, one of the main character will have a disability. Please enjoy! And, look out for our next hero or heroine in the series!
CLICK TO PURCHASE
Click to PurchaseAbout the BookAn accident has robbed Saul Sweeterman of his sight. Angry at the world, Aniyah ‘Annie’ Hays is the only person who can reach him. Her voice draws him like a siren. Saul falls for Annie hard and fast, not knowing that she’s of a different race.As a physical therapist, Annie prides herself on her professionalism. But one glance into Saul’s deep blue eyes and she’s a goner. She’s falling in love and loving it, until she learns Saul opposes interracial relationships.
Since her heart refuses to cooperate, Annie wonders, Will Saul reject her because of the color of her skin? Loosely based on the story of Saul and the prophet Ananias, Color Blind promises to answer the question, Can you tell your heart who to love?From the AuthorSeveral years ago, I self-published two of my full-length novels. One of them, Walk A Straight Line has been revamped, rewritten and revised for Urban Christian Books. Color Blind is my third attempt at self-publishing. The difference, however, is that I'm now an educated author.
I approached my indie novella like I would my other works. First, I have an amazing cover design. Next, I worked with professional, reputable editors. Why? I want every reader to get a quality piece of work. I want every reader to get their money's work.
I'm am so excited to see my efforts pay off! What makes Color Blind unique is that it targets two distinct readers: Interracial romance readers and Christian fiction readers, as well as Romance readers, of course.
About the SeriesColor Blind is Book One of the "Able to Love"series. As a special educator, I've had the opportunity to work with many students with varied disabilities. These students overcome many obstacles to achieve. To honor them, one of the main character will have a disability. Please enjoy! And, look out for our next hero or heroine in the series!
CLICK TO PURCHASE
May 7, 2014
Hot Off the Presses!! Friday Night Love
Friday Night Love New Release Online TourIn Friday Night Love, I was given a chance to meet Zenja and Roman. Their marriage is in trouble, but God is in the mix. A wonderful, inspiring read, I was presented with several quotes that made me underline the text in the book and I NEVER write in my books! A book well-worth reading. I learned another value: the importance of married, saved couples having married, saved friends! 5 Stars!
Anointed writing.
About the BookCAN LOVE HEAL WHAT INFIDELITY TRIED TO DESTROY?
Zenja Maxwell was widowed in her twenties; she never thought she’d be a divorcée, too. Yet that’s the destiny she resigns herself to after learning of her husband’s dalliance with infidelity and kicking him out of the house. She plans a cruise with her best friend, Caprice, to take her mind off Roman and celebrate moving on with her life.
But Caprice won’t let her give up that easily, especially when Roman seems committed to reconciling. She and her husband invite Zenja and Roman to Friday Night Love, a weekly event for couples. Zenja hesitates, but the promise of food and fellowship prevails. She figures she can put up with Roman for one night.
At the events, the women are issued a series of Bible-based challenges designed to help them cultivate respect for their husband. Zenja struggles at first; she isn’t even sure she wants to rekindle the relationship. But Roman is persistent in his pursuit of her, even when he finds out that she nearly cheated on him. Through tragedies, triumphs, and trusted friends, the couple learns never to underestimate the Author of marriage when husbands and wives surrender to Him.
About the AuthorTia McCollors used to dream of being a television news anchor, but her destiny led her behind the pages instead of in front of the cameras. After earning a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from UNC-Chapel Hill, she went on to build a successful career in the public relations industry. In 1999, a job layoff prompted Tia to discover and pursue a writing career as an author. Following the birth of her son in 2006, she left the corporate arena to focus on her family and her expanding writing and speaking business.Tia’s first novel, A Heart of Devotion, was an Essence Magazine bestseller. She followed her popular debut with four other inspirational novels including Zora’s Cry, The Truth About Love, The Last Woman Standing, and Steppin’ Into The Good Life. In 2012, she released If These Shoes Could Talk, her first devotion book of The Prissy Purse Devotions series. Friday Night Love is Tia’s sixth novel.Purchase the Book Online at:Friday Night Love on AmazonFriday Night Love at Barnes and Noble
Visit the author online at:http://www,TiaMcCollors.com
View the blog tour schedule at:
Friday Night Love New Release Tour with Tia McCollorshttp://tywebbinpublicity.com/?p=10808
http://tywebbinvirtualevents.com/PZFp... Day Contest "Fans of Tia McCollors" facebook page:
MOTHER'S DAY CONTEST: Do at least ONE of the following about my new book, Friday Night Love, and I'll enter your name in a contest for your mother (or special mother-figure in your life) to receive a signed copy of my devotional (If These Shoes Could Talk) and a beautiful journal for Mother's Day. Now wouldn't that be nice? You can : 1. Write a FB post, 2. Send a tweet, 3. Change your profile pic to the book cover, OR 4. Post a review on Amazon. Be sure to COMMENT HERE and tell me what you did! Good luck!.
Anointed writing.
About the BookCAN LOVE HEAL WHAT INFIDELITY TRIED TO DESTROY?Zenja Maxwell was widowed in her twenties; she never thought she’d be a divorcée, too. Yet that’s the destiny she resigns herself to after learning of her husband’s dalliance with infidelity and kicking him out of the house. She plans a cruise with her best friend, Caprice, to take her mind off Roman and celebrate moving on with her life.
But Caprice won’t let her give up that easily, especially when Roman seems committed to reconciling. She and her husband invite Zenja and Roman to Friday Night Love, a weekly event for couples. Zenja hesitates, but the promise of food and fellowship prevails. She figures she can put up with Roman for one night.
At the events, the women are issued a series of Bible-based challenges designed to help them cultivate respect for their husband. Zenja struggles at first; she isn’t even sure she wants to rekindle the relationship. But Roman is persistent in his pursuit of her, even when he finds out that she nearly cheated on him. Through tragedies, triumphs, and trusted friends, the couple learns never to underestimate the Author of marriage when husbands and wives surrender to Him.
About the AuthorTia McCollors used to dream of being a television news anchor, but her destiny led her behind the pages instead of in front of the cameras. After earning a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications from UNC-Chapel Hill, she went on to build a successful career in the public relations industry. In 1999, a job layoff prompted Tia to discover and pursue a writing career as an author. Following the birth of her son in 2006, she left the corporate arena to focus on her family and her expanding writing and speaking business.Tia’s first novel, A Heart of Devotion, was an Essence Magazine bestseller. She followed her popular debut with four other inspirational novels including Zora’s Cry, The Truth About Love, The Last Woman Standing, and Steppin’ Into The Good Life. In 2012, she released If These Shoes Could Talk, her first devotion book of The Prissy Purse Devotions series. Friday Night Love is Tia’s sixth novel.Purchase the Book Online at:Friday Night Love on AmazonFriday Night Love at Barnes and Noble
Visit the author online at:http://www,TiaMcCollors.com
View the blog tour schedule at:
Friday Night Love New Release Tour with Tia McCollorshttp://tywebbinpublicity.com/?p=10808
http://tywebbinvirtualevents.com/PZFp... Day Contest "Fans of Tia McCollors" facebook page:
MOTHER'S DAY CONTEST: Do at least ONE of the following about my new book, Friday Night Love, and I'll enter your name in a contest for your mother (or special mother-figure in your life) to receive a signed copy of my devotional (If These Shoes Could Talk) and a beautiful journal for Mother's Day. Now wouldn't that be nice? You can : 1. Write a FB post, 2. Send a tweet, 3. Change your profile pic to the book cover, OR 4. Post a review on Amazon. Be sure to COMMENT HERE and tell me what you did! Good luck!.
May 2, 2014
E. N. Joy's Newest Release: MORE THAN I BEAR
I just finished MORE THAN I CAN BEAR by Author E N Joy. Yes, started and finished in a matter of hours. What an emotional, spiritual, EXCELLENT read!! Whew!! I was stalking the author on her page, lol. Go ahead and snag your copy. Superb, actually. I know there are some who feel paying over a certain amount for books is ridiculous, but what if a book is worth every penny and then some? This is one. Truly Anointed writing.
ABOUT THE BOOK Some would say that God will not put on a person more than she can bear, but Paige begs to differ, because she is truly on the edge. One more unexpected and unpleasant occurrence and she’ll be free falling.
As if physical, mental, sexual, and spiritual abuse from her husband doesn’t weigh heavily enough on her, Paige has learned that her best friend and sister in Christ slept with her husband. Thank God for Norman, one of Paige’s co-workers. He is there to catch her fall before she hits the ground. But will Norman be there when Paige receives news that may not only push her off the edge, but cause her to jump willingly?
In More Than I Can Bear, Paige must decide if she is going to allow herself to drown in the storms she finds herself in, or catch hold of the lifesaver God extends to her.
Here's the review I posted on Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes & Noble:
E. N. Joy's second book in the Always Divas series had a tough act to follow. I Ain't Me No More is now on my all-time favorite list. I didn't know what to expect with this one. However, the second book is more than just the beautiful graphics on the cover.
Within the pages is the story of Paige, a woman who faced much to bear. I laughed. I cried. I was taken on an emotional roller coaster than ultimately ended with me knowing God is in charge and He knows best. This was a woman's spiritual journey of facing tough times and then looking back to discover God was there and He had her all along. Readers expect to see God's Anointing in this one. How much can we bear? We can bear as much as needed for God to get us where we need to be. May God continue to bless the work of her hand and I know some souls will be led to the Word of God after reading this.
PURCHASE YOUR COPY: http://www.amazon.com/More-Than-Can-B...
ABOUT THE BOOK Some would say that God will not put on a person more than she can bear, but Paige begs to differ, because she is truly on the edge. One more unexpected and unpleasant occurrence and she’ll be free falling.
As if physical, mental, sexual, and spiritual abuse from her husband doesn’t weigh heavily enough on her, Paige has learned that her best friend and sister in Christ slept with her husband. Thank God for Norman, one of Paige’s co-workers. He is there to catch her fall before she hits the ground. But will Norman be there when Paige receives news that may not only push her off the edge, but cause her to jump willingly?
In More Than I Can Bear, Paige must decide if she is going to allow herself to drown in the storms she finds herself in, or catch hold of the lifesaver God extends to her.
Here's the review I posted on Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes & Noble:
E. N. Joy's second book in the Always Divas series had a tough act to follow. I Ain't Me No More is now on my all-time favorite list. I didn't know what to expect with this one. However, the second book is more than just the beautiful graphics on the cover.
Within the pages is the story of Paige, a woman who faced much to bear. I laughed. I cried. I was taken on an emotional roller coaster than ultimately ended with me knowing God is in charge and He knows best. This was a woman's spiritual journey of facing tough times and then looking back to discover God was there and He had her all along. Readers expect to see God's Anointing in this one. How much can we bear? We can bear as much as needed for God to get us where we need to be. May God continue to bless the work of her hand and I know some souls will be led to the Word of God after reading this.
PURCHASE YOUR COPY: http://www.amazon.com/More-Than-Can-B...
April 30, 2014
My Review of The Prodigal Son
As the title suggests, Kimberla Lawson Roby penned a delightful tale of a son's journey home. But there is more to The Prodigal Son than that story. The author covered several dramatic topics with unexpected turns, which had me turning the pages until the end. It took me less than 2 days to read and it would've been shorter if only I didn't have to work, eat or sleep. Readers will enjoy our hero's growth process as he learns how to forgive and to love again. The ending... The ending... LOVED it.
ARC used. Not required to give a positive review.
The Reverend Curtis Black hasn't spoken to his son, Matthew, in over a year-not since Matthew dropped out of Harvard to marry his girlfriend, Racquel, and be a full-time father to their infant son. Curtis knows that it was he and his wife, Charlotte, who drove Matthew away, but he prays that one day his son will forgive them and come home.
Matthew, however, can't seem to forget the pain his parents caused him and Racquel. Still, he wonders if maybe they'd been right, as fatherhood is not what he expected, and Racquel's behavior has become increasingly erratic. Matthew genuinely wants to be a good husband, though, and swears he'll never repeat his parents' mistakes. But when an old friend expresses her desire for Matthew, the temptation may be too great to resist...
Then, there's Dillon Whitfield, Curtis's long-lost-son, who has settled in as a member of the Black family. Yet the transition has been anything but easy. Charlotte, convinced he's only after Curtis's money, wishes he would move back to where he came from. Dillon, however, has no intention of going anywhere. After a lifetime in the shadows, he's determined to take his rightful place as Curtis's first-born son and heir, and he'll do whatever it takes to win his father's affection-even if it means playing dirty...
As jealousy builds and secrets pile up, both of Curtis's sons will be pushed over the edge and forced to take drastic action. Can these two troubled young men find their way back into the Black family fold, or will their family ties be undone once and for all?Kimberla's novels are categorized as Contemporary Mainstream Fiction. Her target audience is primarily women of all ages, but men read her novels as well. The primary subject matter discussed in THE PRODIGAL SON is family drama relating to both marriage and sibling rivalry.
THE PRODIGAL SON
Chapter 1
Matthew stared at his wife of ten months and shook his head. Racquel, who was sitting at the opposite end of the chocolate brown, leather sofa, looked over at him and frowned. “What?”
Matthew shook his head again. This time, his eyes screamed disappointment. But all Racquel did was purse her lips and turn her attention back to the flat screen television. It was a noticeably warm Friday evening in May, and though Matthew was a bit tired from his long day at work, he would have loved nothing more than for the two of them to be out somewhere together; maybe have a nice dinner and catch whatever new movie was playing. But as usual, Racquel was contently curled up—like an unconcerned couch potato—doing what she did best: watching some awful, ungodly reality show.
Matthew leaned his head back onto the sofa and closed his eyes. Not in his wildest imagination—not in a thousand lifetimes—would he have ever pictured himself being so miserable. But miserable he was, and worse, he now realized that getting married at the young age of nineteen had turned out to be a horrible mistake. He’d now turned twenty, but he could kick himself for giving up a full, four-year, academic scholarship to Harvard University, something he’d worked very hard for his entire childhood—and now this was all he had to show for it? This, a tiny, two-bedroom apartment, a twelve-dollar-an-hour job at a bank, and no love life of any kind to speak of?Not since the day he’d been born had he ever had to struggle financially. Even before he’d met his father, which hadn’t happened until he was seven years old, Matthew had lived a pretty good life because his maternal grandparents had always seen to it. Then, of course, when his mom had married his dad, he hadn’t gone without anything.
He must have been crazy in love or crazy out of his mind to think he was doing the right thing by getting married. He also couldn’t deny how right his mother had been, every time she’d warned him about having unprotected sex. He still hadn’t spoken to either of his parents in more than a year—not even when they’d mailed him a ten-thousand-dollar check, and he’d torn it up—but his mom had been correct in her thinking. Matthew wasn’t sure why he’d been so careless and irresponsible. Although, he was proud of the fact that he’d immediately manned up as soon as he’d learned of Racquel’s pregnancy and had decided to be there for both her and the baby.Then, as it had turned out, Racquel’s parents had told him that they would take care of little MJ until he and Racquel finished college—since Racquel had been scheduled to attend MIT a few months after the baby was born. They’d also wanted Matthew to get his education without any worries, so off to Boston he had gone—and life had been great until that dreadful day in January when Racquel had gone into labor much too early. A huge blowup had ensued between his mother and Vanessa, the two grandmothers to be, at Racquel’s baby shower, and Racquel had gotten herself all worked up over it. Next thing anyone had known, her water had broken and she’d been rushed to the hospital.
Matthew remembered how terrified he’d been that Racquel would lose the baby, but thank God, everything had turned out well. Little MJ had been born with a respiratory problem, but he’d ended up being released from the hospital just a few days later. Although, the more Matthew thought about all that had evolved, he was saddened further because none of what had occurred on the day of the baby shower could compare to any of what had happened a few weeks afterward. His mother had concocted the most outlandish scheme, and before long, the Division of Children and Family Services had come knocking at the front door of Racquel’s parents’, stating that they’d received two phone calls claiming child abuse. Of course, none of this had been true, and although in the end, the truth had been exposed and Charlotte had been arrested, the whole idea of little MJ being snatched away from Racquel had been too much for her to handle. It was the reason she now regularly obsessed over their one-year-old son, and she never felt comfortable leaving him with her own parents, let alone anyone else.She wasn’t even okay with Matthew taking MJ to see his sister, Alicia, or his great-aunt, Emma because she feared something might happen to him or that he might be kidnapped. That whole DCFS incident had ruined Racquel emotionally, and Matthew had a feeling things would never be normal for them again. As it was, she rarely left the house, and she no longer visited any of her friends when they came home from school for the weekend. She never invited anyone over to the apartment either.
Matthew opened his eyes and turned his head toward Racquel. At first she ignored him, even though he knew she saw him looking at her, but finally, she turned toward him in a huff.
“Why do you keep staring at me?”
Matthew gazed at her. “Because.”
“Because what, Matt?”
“Look at you? All that long, beautiful hair. When was the last time you even bothered to comb it? Or put on a little makeup?”
“Excuse me? Well, in case you haven’t noticed, I have a baby to take care of. So trying to look beautiful is the very least of my worries.”
“Maybe. But have you taken a good look at this place?” Matthew scanned the living room and looked toward the kitchen. Her and MJ’s dirty clothes, were scattered everywhere. He also saw just about every toy MJ owned strewn across the floor. “It’s a complete mess, Racquel. We’re practically living in filth, and you stroll around here like it’s clean as a whistle.”
“Like I said, I have a baby to take care of.”
“Is that also the reason we don’t make love anymore?”
Racquel squint her eyes. “Is that all you care about?”
“No, but I think it’s a cryin’ shame that I’m a married man, yet I haven’t had sex in over two months. And even when we did it then, I had to nag you for three days about it.”
Racquel rolled her eyes and turned back to the television.
Matthew snatched the remote control from the sofa and turned it off.
Racquel stood up. “Are you crazy? What’s wrong with you?”
“Everything, Racquel! I’m sick of this. All you do is watch those mindless reality shows, eat a ton of junk food and then you watch more stupid reality shows. And I’m not sure how much more I can take.”
“Oh really? Well, why don’t you leave then? Why don’t you just file for a divorce, because nobody’s forcing you to be here.”
Matthew swallowed hard. He’d known for a while that they had major marital problems, but he hadn’t expected her to suggest a breakup so quickly. “Wow. So that’s how you feel about me?”
“You’re the one complaining, Matt, so if you want out I won’t try to stop you. If you’re that miserable and unhappy, then what’s the point?”
“Are you saying you don’t love me anymore?”
“I’m not saying that at all, but you’re mother ruined everything for us. She had my child taken from me, Matt. She made false accusations about me and my mom, even though neither of us would ever do anything to hurt little MJ. I nearly had a nervous breakdown over that nonsense.”
“I understand that, baby, but my mother hasn’t been in the picture for a while. I cut her off because of what she did, and then I married you. I stuck by you, because I love you.”
Racquel didn’t respond and walked into the kitchen. Matthew wasn’t sure whether to follow her or not. He knew she’d been traumatized, but he also didn’t think it was fair for her to blame him for his mother’s actions. He hadn’t done anything to cause her pain, and actually, all he’d done was try to love her and be there for her. He’d given up Harvard, a close relationship with his parents, and a comfortable way of living—all of which he hadn’t minded doing as long as he had his wife and son.
Racquel walked back into the living room with a can of orange soda in her hand and a package of cookies and dropped back down on the sofa. She sat as close to the arm of the couch as she could and as far away from Matthew as possible.
“Maybe we should see a counselor,” he said.
Racquel picked up the selector and turned the TV back on, but she never looked at him. “I don’t think so.”
“Why?”
“Because there’s nothing wrong with me.”
“Maybe not, baby, but you just said a few minutes ago yourself that you nearly had a nervous breakdown.”
“That was then, but I’m fine now. I’m good.”
“No, you’re not, and neither are we as a couple.”
Racquel sighed loudly and pulled her legs under her behind. She flipped through a few channels and finally settled on…another reality show.
Matthew wanted to protest—wanted to shut the TV off again, but instead, he got up and went into their bedroom. He dove face first onto the bed and took a deep breath. A ton of thoughts gyrated through his mind but there was one thought that troubled him a great deal: he regretted ever marrying Racquel. He did still love her he guessed, but he was starting not to like her very much and this wasn’t good. As a matter of fact, to him, not liking the person you were married to was a lot worse than not being in love with them. If you didn’t like someone, you almost hated having to be around them. Then, you eventually got to a point where you avoided them completely, and there was usually no turning back from that. Matthew hated the way he was feeling because something told him that his once happy marriage was only going to crumble even further—not just slightly but to the extreme.
( Continued... )
© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Kimberla Lawson Roby. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Share a link to this page or the author's website if you really like this sneak peek.
The Prodigal Son by Kimberla Lawson Roby
Series: A Reverend Curtis Black Novel
Amazon: http://amzn.com/1455526134
meet the author
Kimberla Lawson Roby is a New York Times, USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of 19 novels, with her 20th novel, THE PRODIGAL SON being released, May 13, 2014. She is also releasing her 1st Christmas novella in November 2014. Kimberla is the 2013 NAACP Image Award winner for Outstanding Literary Work - Fiction and lives in Illinois with her husband, Will.
ARC used. Not required to give a positive review.
The Reverend Curtis Black hasn't spoken to his son, Matthew, in over a year-not since Matthew dropped out of Harvard to marry his girlfriend, Racquel, and be a full-time father to their infant son. Curtis knows that it was he and his wife, Charlotte, who drove Matthew away, but he prays that one day his son will forgive them and come home.Matthew, however, can't seem to forget the pain his parents caused him and Racquel. Still, he wonders if maybe they'd been right, as fatherhood is not what he expected, and Racquel's behavior has become increasingly erratic. Matthew genuinely wants to be a good husband, though, and swears he'll never repeat his parents' mistakes. But when an old friend expresses her desire for Matthew, the temptation may be too great to resist...
Then, there's Dillon Whitfield, Curtis's long-lost-son, who has settled in as a member of the Black family. Yet the transition has been anything but easy. Charlotte, convinced he's only after Curtis's money, wishes he would move back to where he came from. Dillon, however, has no intention of going anywhere. After a lifetime in the shadows, he's determined to take his rightful place as Curtis's first-born son and heir, and he'll do whatever it takes to win his father's affection-even if it means playing dirty...
As jealousy builds and secrets pile up, both of Curtis's sons will be pushed over the edge and forced to take drastic action. Can these two troubled young men find their way back into the Black family fold, or will their family ties be undone once and for all?Kimberla's novels are categorized as Contemporary Mainstream Fiction. Her target audience is primarily women of all ages, but men read her novels as well. The primary subject matter discussed in THE PRODIGAL SON is family drama relating to both marriage and sibling rivalry.
THE PRODIGAL SON
Chapter 1
Matthew stared at his wife of ten months and shook his head. Racquel, who was sitting at the opposite end of the chocolate brown, leather sofa, looked over at him and frowned. “What?”
Matthew shook his head again. This time, his eyes screamed disappointment. But all Racquel did was purse her lips and turn her attention back to the flat screen television. It was a noticeably warm Friday evening in May, and though Matthew was a bit tired from his long day at work, he would have loved nothing more than for the two of them to be out somewhere together; maybe have a nice dinner and catch whatever new movie was playing. But as usual, Racquel was contently curled up—like an unconcerned couch potato—doing what she did best: watching some awful, ungodly reality show.
Matthew leaned his head back onto the sofa and closed his eyes. Not in his wildest imagination—not in a thousand lifetimes—would he have ever pictured himself being so miserable. But miserable he was, and worse, he now realized that getting married at the young age of nineteen had turned out to be a horrible mistake. He’d now turned twenty, but he could kick himself for giving up a full, four-year, academic scholarship to Harvard University, something he’d worked very hard for his entire childhood—and now this was all he had to show for it? This, a tiny, two-bedroom apartment, a twelve-dollar-an-hour job at a bank, and no love life of any kind to speak of?Not since the day he’d been born had he ever had to struggle financially. Even before he’d met his father, which hadn’t happened until he was seven years old, Matthew had lived a pretty good life because his maternal grandparents had always seen to it. Then, of course, when his mom had married his dad, he hadn’t gone without anything.
He must have been crazy in love or crazy out of his mind to think he was doing the right thing by getting married. He also couldn’t deny how right his mother had been, every time she’d warned him about having unprotected sex. He still hadn’t spoken to either of his parents in more than a year—not even when they’d mailed him a ten-thousand-dollar check, and he’d torn it up—but his mom had been correct in her thinking. Matthew wasn’t sure why he’d been so careless and irresponsible. Although, he was proud of the fact that he’d immediately manned up as soon as he’d learned of Racquel’s pregnancy and had decided to be there for both her and the baby.Then, as it had turned out, Racquel’s parents had told him that they would take care of little MJ until he and Racquel finished college—since Racquel had been scheduled to attend MIT a few months after the baby was born. They’d also wanted Matthew to get his education without any worries, so off to Boston he had gone—and life had been great until that dreadful day in January when Racquel had gone into labor much too early. A huge blowup had ensued between his mother and Vanessa, the two grandmothers to be, at Racquel’s baby shower, and Racquel had gotten herself all worked up over it. Next thing anyone had known, her water had broken and she’d been rushed to the hospital.
Matthew remembered how terrified he’d been that Racquel would lose the baby, but thank God, everything had turned out well. Little MJ had been born with a respiratory problem, but he’d ended up being released from the hospital just a few days later. Although, the more Matthew thought about all that had evolved, he was saddened further because none of what had occurred on the day of the baby shower could compare to any of what had happened a few weeks afterward. His mother had concocted the most outlandish scheme, and before long, the Division of Children and Family Services had come knocking at the front door of Racquel’s parents’, stating that they’d received two phone calls claiming child abuse. Of course, none of this had been true, and although in the end, the truth had been exposed and Charlotte had been arrested, the whole idea of little MJ being snatched away from Racquel had been too much for her to handle. It was the reason she now regularly obsessed over their one-year-old son, and she never felt comfortable leaving him with her own parents, let alone anyone else.She wasn’t even okay with Matthew taking MJ to see his sister, Alicia, or his great-aunt, Emma because she feared something might happen to him or that he might be kidnapped. That whole DCFS incident had ruined Racquel emotionally, and Matthew had a feeling things would never be normal for them again. As it was, she rarely left the house, and she no longer visited any of her friends when they came home from school for the weekend. She never invited anyone over to the apartment either.
Matthew opened his eyes and turned his head toward Racquel. At first she ignored him, even though he knew she saw him looking at her, but finally, she turned toward him in a huff.
“Why do you keep staring at me?”
Matthew gazed at her. “Because.”
“Because what, Matt?”
“Look at you? All that long, beautiful hair. When was the last time you even bothered to comb it? Or put on a little makeup?”
“Excuse me? Well, in case you haven’t noticed, I have a baby to take care of. So trying to look beautiful is the very least of my worries.”
“Maybe. But have you taken a good look at this place?” Matthew scanned the living room and looked toward the kitchen. Her and MJ’s dirty clothes, were scattered everywhere. He also saw just about every toy MJ owned strewn across the floor. “It’s a complete mess, Racquel. We’re practically living in filth, and you stroll around here like it’s clean as a whistle.”
“Like I said, I have a baby to take care of.”
“Is that also the reason we don’t make love anymore?”
Racquel squint her eyes. “Is that all you care about?”
“No, but I think it’s a cryin’ shame that I’m a married man, yet I haven’t had sex in over two months. And even when we did it then, I had to nag you for three days about it.”
Racquel rolled her eyes and turned back to the television.
Matthew snatched the remote control from the sofa and turned it off.
Racquel stood up. “Are you crazy? What’s wrong with you?”
“Everything, Racquel! I’m sick of this. All you do is watch those mindless reality shows, eat a ton of junk food and then you watch more stupid reality shows. And I’m not sure how much more I can take.”
“Oh really? Well, why don’t you leave then? Why don’t you just file for a divorce, because nobody’s forcing you to be here.”
Matthew swallowed hard. He’d known for a while that they had major marital problems, but he hadn’t expected her to suggest a breakup so quickly. “Wow. So that’s how you feel about me?”
“You’re the one complaining, Matt, so if you want out I won’t try to stop you. If you’re that miserable and unhappy, then what’s the point?”
“Are you saying you don’t love me anymore?”
“I’m not saying that at all, but you’re mother ruined everything for us. She had my child taken from me, Matt. She made false accusations about me and my mom, even though neither of us would ever do anything to hurt little MJ. I nearly had a nervous breakdown over that nonsense.”
“I understand that, baby, but my mother hasn’t been in the picture for a while. I cut her off because of what she did, and then I married you. I stuck by you, because I love you.”
Racquel didn’t respond and walked into the kitchen. Matthew wasn’t sure whether to follow her or not. He knew she’d been traumatized, but he also didn’t think it was fair for her to blame him for his mother’s actions. He hadn’t done anything to cause her pain, and actually, all he’d done was try to love her and be there for her. He’d given up Harvard, a close relationship with his parents, and a comfortable way of living—all of which he hadn’t minded doing as long as he had his wife and son.
Racquel walked back into the living room with a can of orange soda in her hand and a package of cookies and dropped back down on the sofa. She sat as close to the arm of the couch as she could and as far away from Matthew as possible.
“Maybe we should see a counselor,” he said.
Racquel picked up the selector and turned the TV back on, but she never looked at him. “I don’t think so.”
“Why?”
“Because there’s nothing wrong with me.”
“Maybe not, baby, but you just said a few minutes ago yourself that you nearly had a nervous breakdown.”
“That was then, but I’m fine now. I’m good.”
“No, you’re not, and neither are we as a couple.”
Racquel sighed loudly and pulled her legs under her behind. She flipped through a few channels and finally settled on…another reality show.
Matthew wanted to protest—wanted to shut the TV off again, but instead, he got up and went into their bedroom. He dove face first onto the bed and took a deep breath. A ton of thoughts gyrated through his mind but there was one thought that troubled him a great deal: he regretted ever marrying Racquel. He did still love her he guessed, but he was starting not to like her very much and this wasn’t good. As a matter of fact, to him, not liking the person you were married to was a lot worse than not being in love with them. If you didn’t like someone, you almost hated having to be around them. Then, you eventually got to a point where you avoided them completely, and there was usually no turning back from that. Matthew hated the way he was feeling because something told him that his once happy marriage was only going to crumble even further—not just slightly but to the extreme.
( Continued... )
© 2014 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Kimberla Lawson Roby. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. Copyright infringement is a serious offense. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only. Share a link to this page or the author's website if you really like this sneak peek.
The Prodigal Son by Kimberla Lawson Roby
Series: A Reverend Curtis Black Novel
Amazon: http://amzn.com/1455526134
meet the authorKimberla Lawson Roby is a New York Times, USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of 19 novels, with her 20th novel, THE PRODIGAL SON being released, May 13, 2014. She is also releasing her 1st Christmas novella in November 2014. Kimberla is the 2013 NAACP Image Award winner for Outstanding Literary Work - Fiction and lives in Illinois with her husband, Will.
