Michelle Lindo-Rice's Blog, page 51
April 28, 2014
Color Blind: Coming Soon
A first look at COLOR BLIND (unedited) my first novella, coming your way May/June 2014
Chapter One
Was that who he thought it was? Saul Sweeterman arched his wiry body over the steering wheel and peered through the windshield. His wiper blades sloshed away the fury of the pounding rain but it was difficult for him to see.
It was three o’clock on a Wednesday afternoon in May and like clockwork, it was pouring rain. But even in the rain he could see.
It was her.
He gazed at the passenger in the vehicle across in the lane from him. Indeed, there sat his daughter, Cassandra Matthews, who hadn’t spoken to him in three long, agonizing years.
Sitting at the intersection of Veterans Blvd and Atwater Ave., he was glad for the red signal because he’d been given a precious glimpse of his beloved Cassandra. Eyeing her black, no, African-American, husband, Kellan Matthews, resentment filled his heart and his lips became an angry line that he knew was as ugly as his feelings. Kellan was the reason he’s lost Cassandra.
Saul spotted a little head bouncing up and down in the rear seat behind Cassandra’s seat. He tilted his head to get a better look. His granddaughter, Emily, was a beauty. There was no denying that. But, Saul’s problem was she was biracial, and Saul couldn’t accept that. The races shouldn’t mix. He didn’t advocate slavery or apartheid, but drew the line at interracial dating and marriage. It just shouldn’t be done. That’s what his parents had drilled into him from a child, and it had been ingrained in his belief system. If pressed, he wouldn’t be able to provide a legitimate argument, but Saul didn’t need any for what he explained as intrinsically unnatural.
He had friends who were of a different race, but he’d never crossed that line. He hadn’t felt the need to explain to his daughter either. He had assumed that it was just understood. But he had been wrong. Saul sighed. Well, he’d made a fatal mistake when he hadn’t spelled things out to his daughter.
“But your best friend, Uncle Marvin, is black,” Cassandra protested the day she broke the news that she was pregnant and getting married to a black man. She pointed over to the picture frame displayed on the mantle.
Saul followed the direction of her finger and smiled with fondness. Marvin was a goofball and committed to the game. They’d spent hours bonding over basketball until an injury ended Marvin’s chances for the NBA. Marvin hadn’t let that deter him, though. He’d kept on going. “Yes, but, that’s because we played ball together. Marvin Alton was the exception. He married his own kind.”
“You’re prejudiced!” Cassandra screamed. She clenched her fists and got right up in his face like she was ready to fight him. Like she wanted to hit him.
“Don’t you fix your mouth to say those words,” Saul said. “I’m not prejudiced—I just have my preferences. I’m being realistic. Your child will have a lot of issues to deal with. He or she will struggle with developing an identity.”
“Are you listening to yourself?” Cassandra scoffed. She turned her head away from him blocking him from reading her face.
Saul remembered turning her head to face him. He had looked into blue eyes so like his own, and touching her corn silk blond hair before saying, “Don’t marry him, Cassandra. Don’t have this baby.”
She’d gasped and turned from him in one single motion. Shame crawled up his spine, but he wasn’t going to take his words back. He didn’t believe in abortion, but this was a unique situation. This constituted an emergency.
“In this day and time you’re asking me be ashamed that I’m in love? When I told you about Kellan you sang his praises and encouraged me not to let such a promising young man, you called him, slip away.”
“Yes, but that was when I thought… I mean Kellan didn’t sound like a…” Saul sputtered.
“A what? A black name?” Cassandra’s eyebrows creased and she raised her hands to still his words. “Dad, please stop talking because you’re going off every stereotype in the book and it shocks and saddens me. You’re behaving like a dinosaur. I love Kellan and my baby, and we’re going to get married.”
“Well, I want no part of it.” Saul dictated with a patriarchal tone and a wide swoop of his hands. “If you marry him, don’t expect me to walk you down the aisle and smile and pretend I’m all right with you marrying someone you barely know—what’s it been five months?”
Tears filled her eyes. He knew he’d hurt her, but he wasn’t backing down.
Cassandra was just as stubborn. She’d walk out of his house and had married Kellan and had her child without him. The only move she had made was to send him a picture of Emily when she’d been born. He had the picture buried under some papers in his nightstand, but he’d never initiated contact.
The rain poured, as the minute crept by. Saul drank his sight of his daughter. She looked so much like Nora that he could hardly bear it. He shifted his eyes to look in the rearview mirror.
“What the?” He scrunched forward. Was he seeing right? There was a semi speeding in his direction. The moron was driving too fast with the slick roads. He wouldn’t be able to brake in time. Saul’s body clenched. This was an accident waiting to happen and the driver showed no signs of slowing down.
“Slow down. Slow down.”
The truck jumped the midline. Oh, no. He was heading straight for his daughter’s car. His heart rate escalated, and Saul’s palms sweated. He turned his body to get a good look behind him. Oh, boy, it wasn’t going to stop. For tense seconds, Saul debated. He jumped out his car “Cassandra! Kellan!” he yelled, but they were playing with Emily in the back seat.
Soaked, Saul scuttled towards his truck. There was only way to circumvent what was coming, and there was only way to do it. He started the engine and slammed on the escalator, praying his sturdy F-150 that could take a hit. The truck driver must have finally caught on because he heard the sharp squeal of brakes before the semi began to spin on the slick road.
Saul continued driving. Cassandra and Kellan saw him at the same time. Their faces mirrored expressions of shock and horror as they saw the truck coming towards them. He registered their furious efforts to get Emily out her car seat. “Get out the car,” he roared. Kellan jumped into the rear seat and covered his daughter with his body.
A millisecond before impact, Saul swung his truck in front of the vehicle. Once it rear-ended him, his car was swung out into the ditch and he felt the crushing effect of steel against steel. Saul’s body reeled as he missed being hurled into the street. Cassandra’s car was now an easy target and the truck screeched to a halt hitting them. He heard screams and then the boom as glass shattered.
“Cassandra!” he wailed, willing his body to move, to go to his daughter, but a strong force pulled him slowly into blackness. As he succumbed, Saul heard a faint whisper in his ear, “Saul.” The quiet voice soothed him and peace reigned as he drifted off. Then suddenly, all was silent and blessed quietness engulfed him.
http://michellelindorice.com/color-blind/
Chapter One
Was that who he thought it was? Saul Sweeterman arched his wiry body over the steering wheel and peered through the windshield. His wiper blades sloshed away the fury of the pounding rain but it was difficult for him to see.
It was three o’clock on a Wednesday afternoon in May and like clockwork, it was pouring rain. But even in the rain he could see.
It was her.
He gazed at the passenger in the vehicle across in the lane from him. Indeed, there sat his daughter, Cassandra Matthews, who hadn’t spoken to him in three long, agonizing years.
Sitting at the intersection of Veterans Blvd and Atwater Ave., he was glad for the red signal because he’d been given a precious glimpse of his beloved Cassandra. Eyeing her black, no, African-American, husband, Kellan Matthews, resentment filled his heart and his lips became an angry line that he knew was as ugly as his feelings. Kellan was the reason he’s lost Cassandra.
Saul spotted a little head bouncing up and down in the rear seat behind Cassandra’s seat. He tilted his head to get a better look. His granddaughter, Emily, was a beauty. There was no denying that. But, Saul’s problem was she was biracial, and Saul couldn’t accept that. The races shouldn’t mix. He didn’t advocate slavery or apartheid, but drew the line at interracial dating and marriage. It just shouldn’t be done. That’s what his parents had drilled into him from a child, and it had been ingrained in his belief system. If pressed, he wouldn’t be able to provide a legitimate argument, but Saul didn’t need any for what he explained as intrinsically unnatural.
He had friends who were of a different race, but he’d never crossed that line. He hadn’t felt the need to explain to his daughter either. He had assumed that it was just understood. But he had been wrong. Saul sighed. Well, he’d made a fatal mistake when he hadn’t spelled things out to his daughter.
“But your best friend, Uncle Marvin, is black,” Cassandra protested the day she broke the news that she was pregnant and getting married to a black man. She pointed over to the picture frame displayed on the mantle.
Saul followed the direction of her finger and smiled with fondness. Marvin was a goofball and committed to the game. They’d spent hours bonding over basketball until an injury ended Marvin’s chances for the NBA. Marvin hadn’t let that deter him, though. He’d kept on going. “Yes, but, that’s because we played ball together. Marvin Alton was the exception. He married his own kind.”
“You’re prejudiced!” Cassandra screamed. She clenched her fists and got right up in his face like she was ready to fight him. Like she wanted to hit him.
“Don’t you fix your mouth to say those words,” Saul said. “I’m not prejudiced—I just have my preferences. I’m being realistic. Your child will have a lot of issues to deal with. He or she will struggle with developing an identity.”
“Are you listening to yourself?” Cassandra scoffed. She turned her head away from him blocking him from reading her face.
Saul remembered turning her head to face him. He had looked into blue eyes so like his own, and touching her corn silk blond hair before saying, “Don’t marry him, Cassandra. Don’t have this baby.”
She’d gasped and turned from him in one single motion. Shame crawled up his spine, but he wasn’t going to take his words back. He didn’t believe in abortion, but this was a unique situation. This constituted an emergency.
“In this day and time you’re asking me be ashamed that I’m in love? When I told you about Kellan you sang his praises and encouraged me not to let such a promising young man, you called him, slip away.”
“Yes, but that was when I thought… I mean Kellan didn’t sound like a…” Saul sputtered.
“A what? A black name?” Cassandra’s eyebrows creased and she raised her hands to still his words. “Dad, please stop talking because you’re going off every stereotype in the book and it shocks and saddens me. You’re behaving like a dinosaur. I love Kellan and my baby, and we’re going to get married.”
“Well, I want no part of it.” Saul dictated with a patriarchal tone and a wide swoop of his hands. “If you marry him, don’t expect me to walk you down the aisle and smile and pretend I’m all right with you marrying someone you barely know—what’s it been five months?”
Tears filled her eyes. He knew he’d hurt her, but he wasn’t backing down.
Cassandra was just as stubborn. She’d walk out of his house and had married Kellan and had her child without him. The only move she had made was to send him a picture of Emily when she’d been born. He had the picture buried under some papers in his nightstand, but he’d never initiated contact.
The rain poured, as the minute crept by. Saul drank his sight of his daughter. She looked so much like Nora that he could hardly bear it. He shifted his eyes to look in the rearview mirror.
“What the?” He scrunched forward. Was he seeing right? There was a semi speeding in his direction. The moron was driving too fast with the slick roads. He wouldn’t be able to brake in time. Saul’s body clenched. This was an accident waiting to happen and the driver showed no signs of slowing down.
“Slow down. Slow down.”
The truck jumped the midline. Oh, no. He was heading straight for his daughter’s car. His heart rate escalated, and Saul’s palms sweated. He turned his body to get a good look behind him. Oh, boy, it wasn’t going to stop. For tense seconds, Saul debated. He jumped out his car “Cassandra! Kellan!” he yelled, but they were playing with Emily in the back seat.
Soaked, Saul scuttled towards his truck. There was only way to circumvent what was coming, and there was only way to do it. He started the engine and slammed on the escalator, praying his sturdy F-150 that could take a hit. The truck driver must have finally caught on because he heard the sharp squeal of brakes before the semi began to spin on the slick road.
Saul continued driving. Cassandra and Kellan saw him at the same time. Their faces mirrored expressions of shock and horror as they saw the truck coming towards them. He registered their furious efforts to get Emily out her car seat. “Get out the car,” he roared. Kellan jumped into the rear seat and covered his daughter with his body.
A millisecond before impact, Saul swung his truck in front of the vehicle. Once it rear-ended him, his car was swung out into the ditch and he felt the crushing effect of steel against steel. Saul’s body reeled as he missed being hurled into the street. Cassandra’s car was now an easy target and the truck screeched to a halt hitting them. He heard screams and then the boom as glass shattered.
“Cassandra!” he wailed, willing his body to move, to go to his daughter, but a strong force pulled him slowly into blackness. As he succumbed, Saul heard a faint whisper in his ear, “Saul.” The quiet voice soothed him and peace reigned as he drifted off. Then suddenly, all was silent and blessed quietness engulfed him.
http://michellelindorice.com/color-blind/
April 23, 2014
Broken Vessels Book Tour
This book captivates the essence of living life with the pain and mask of unforgiveness eating away and fermenting the heart while piercing the soul. Exposing the lives and experiences of eight ordinary women journeying separately but cohesively, Barconia entangles herself with each personality to seize the moments of brokenness, mending, healing and restoration.
About the Book
In Cherylrese’s latest release “Broken Vessels,” she explores how forgiveness is the key to all situations in order for the soul to be set free and experience life to the fullest.Cherylrese Barconia is a creative, loving writer who embraces the characters of her newly released novel Broken Vessels (River Flow Publishing, 2013). This book captivates the essence of living life with the pain and mask of unforgiveness eating away and fermenting the heart while piercing the soul. Exposing the lives and experiences of eight ordinary women journeying separately but cohesively, Barconia entangles herself with each personality to seize the moments of brokenness, mending, healing and restoration.
Questions for the AuthorHow did you come up with ideas for this book?Because of my ability to travel I encountered many situations where I was able to observe women from all walks of life become women that mask and conceal pain, equating to unforgiveness.What was the most difficult aspect of writing this book?The most difficult aspect of writing the book was I didn't know I would become a character in the book. The book was being written for women to help bring illumination and transformation in their lives. Because I had walked many paths similar to theirs, I concluded the book with my story.Why do you write? Is it something you’ve always done, or always wanted to do? Or is it something that you started fairly recently? I began writing at age twelve, not being aware that I had a gift to express myself through words. So, I won a contest in elementary school then didn't pick up a pen again until I was 26. My first book written was poetry and I didn't know that writing out my feelings would bring healing into my life.Any advice to give to aspiring writers?I would advise aspiring writers to be themselves. Your words of expression can touch lives if you give people the best of yourself and not imitate anyone else. The gift to write can be expressed in so many ways for you to inspire, encourage or uplift people.Meet the Author
Minister | Speaker | Author Cherylrese Barconia-HenryAuthor Cherylrese Barconia-Henry captivates the mind of not just women, but allows men to sensitize themselves to the passion that ordinary women experience through the pain that life undoubtedly brings and the testimonies that flow from the forgiveness of God and themselves. Broken Vessels is Barconia's third book. Author Barconia shares with Jump Start Your Day Blog, how “society has women competing with each other, and not able to sensitize with one another because of the common denominator consisting of pain from the past or obstacles of the present hindering forgiveness. Freedom will come through forgiveness. Women can be healed from their past hurt, overcome obstacles and live with purpose. As women we conceal and or mask pain of the woman we have become, discouraging the woman we were destined to be.” Author Cherylrese Barconia-Henry has also penned ‘Peace in a World of Thunder,’ and ‘The Handmaiden.’
Visit the author online at:
Book Trailer: http://vimeo.com/87526601 Website: http://www.brokenvesselsnetwork.com/ Follow on Twitter: @Cherylrese Hash-Tag #BrokenVessels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorcherylreselynette
Book Review If you have read the book, please we do encourage posting book reviews on Amazon.com and other online bookstores.
April 17, 2014
How Sweet the Sound
Author is offering 2 ARC of #HSTS. The contest code is below. Open to US only.a Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Title: How Sweet the SoundPaperback: 288 pagesPublisher: Abingdon Press (March 4, 2014)ISBN-10: 1426749287ISBN-13: 978-1426749285Genre: Historical Gospel Fiction
About The Book
Shar Gracey wants nothing more than to sing the Lord’s praises, so she jumps at the chance to join a traveling choir led by the father of black gospel music, Thomas A. Dorsey. Better yet, the opportunity will give her money to pay for her ailing mother’s medical care.While on tour she falls under the tutelage of gospel great Mahalia Jackson—and falls for the handsome but not-so-great Nicoli James, whose desires for Shar are fueled by his own greed. Shar would do anything for Nicoli—and he knows it—so when his life is threatened after a night of gambling, Shar agrees to help pay Nicoli’s debt, only to have her faith and dreams shattered.Reeling from the betrayal, Shar loses her voice and she believes that she will never sing again. She has no place to run except back home to her seriously ill mother—and the man she left behind, who would move heaven and earth to make Shar’s pain go away. Even if it means he has to let her go . . . again.About The Author
Vanessa Miller of Dayton, Ohio, is a best-selling author, playwright, and motivational speaker. Her stage productions include: Get You Some Business, Don’t Turn Your Back on God, and Can’t You Hear Them Crying. Vanessa is currently in the process of turning the novels in the Rain Series into stage productions.Vanessa has been writing since she was a young child. When she wasn’t writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels, reading great books consumed her free time. However, it wasn’t until she committed her life to the Lord in 1994 that she realized all gifts and anointing come from God. She then set out to write redemption stories that glorify God.To date, Vanessa has completed the Rain and Storm Series. She is currently working on the Forsaken series, Second Chance at Love series and a single title, Long Time Coming. Vanessa believes that each book will touch readers across the country in a special way. It is, after all, her God-given destiny to write and produce plays and novels that bring deliverance to God’s people. These books have received rave reviews, winning Best Christian Fiction Awards and topping numerous Bestseller’s lists.
Social Links:
Email: vmiller-01@earthlink.netWebsite: http://vanessamiller.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Vanessamiller01Fa... https://www.facebook.com/Vanessamille... Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77899021863/
Buy Links
:Amazon paperback: http://www.amazon.com/How-Sweet-Sound-Vanessa-Miller/dp/1426749287/ref=vanessamil-20Ebook: http://www.amazon.com/How-Sweet-Sound-Book-ebook/dp/B00I11W3CS/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=Barnes & Nobles: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/how-sweet-the-sound-vanessa-miller/1118719005?ean=9781426749285&isbn=9781426749285Hosted by Write Now Literary www.wnlbooktours.com Tour page: http://wnlbooktours.com/vanessa-mille...
April 16, 2014
I Didn't Know Virtual Know Book Tour
I DIDN’T KNOW VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR with YVETTE ALLEN- TATUMApril 1- April 30, 2014Paperback: 110 pagesPublisher: Kingdom Publishing Group, Inc. (March 15, 2013)Language:EnglishISBN-10: 0988312670ISBN-13: 978-0988312678Post book reviews on Amazon, Barnes & Nobles, Goodreads and in your post About The Book
“I Didn't Know" is for more than just an audience of one. If you look to your left, look to your right, or directly in the mirror, you will see or know someone who has been sexually abused... even if you look in the mirror, and the person is YOU! More than the tragedy of sexual abuse is the tragedy of the silence of sexual abuse. It must be talked about. Our stories have to be shared; someone's life is literally depending upon YOU to BREAK THE IGNORANCE OF SILENCE! "I Didn't Know" brings to the forefront the many hidden faces of child sexual abuse. The author, Yvette L. Allen-Tatum, shares not only her story, but the compelling testimonies of others--everyone from the actual victim, to the offender, to those who standby by in disbelief and allow these heinous crimes against our children to continue. Our voices have to be heard, our children must be free or freed to tell the TRUTH: that someone touched them. Who can they run to? Will it be you?About The Author
Author, Teacher, Conference Host, Public Speaker, Encourager, Motivator, Ordained & licensed Minister of The Gospel, Radical for Christ, undercover Comedian and the list goes on...Yvette is a graduate of Grace Christian College where she earned her Masters of Divinity and a Bachelor of Arts in Theology. She is also a graduate of University of Richmond, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Finance and a Minor in Leadership Studies. In addition, she has 30 plus years of experience in income tax preparation and bookkeeping. As the Founder of Surrounded by Faith Ministries, Yvette has had the opportunity to touch and transform the lives of many women with the Word of God. This mighty Woman of God has a prophetic teaching anointing which has enabled her to cross many boundaries. As such, the Call of God on her life has broadened from transforming the lives of women to transforming LIVES with the Word of God. While she still holds a passion to train and equip women in the life study and application of the Bible, her ultimate goal is to strengthen families. To do so her platform is geared to men, women and children.From The Author I Didn't Know - Identifying, Confronting & Overcoming Child Sexual Abuse - the title is indicative of the subject matter. In this book the author brings to the forefront the many faces of child sexual abuse; those of the victims and the abusers. Yvette Allen-Tatum boldly confronts her past of child sexual abuse to demonstrate that TRUE deliverance is possible. Yvette believes that we ALL (victims, abusers, enablers, nay-sayers, etc.) can OVERCOME the horrible effects of child sexual abuse.This book proves that true healing is possible and necessary for us to become more than CONQUERORS through Christ Jesus. As a community, we have to:§ Identify Child Sexual Abuse – o We have to talk about it (raise public awareness)o Know the signs & symptoms§ Confront Child Sexual Abuse –o Error on the side of caution – THE CHILDo Be quick to BELIEVE the victim and make all necessary inquirieso Studies show people are more apt to believe the innocence of the accused; this has to END§ Overcome Child Sexual Abuse –o We overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and the WORD of OUR TESTIMONY
Connect with the Author
Email Address: Loosed03@gmail.comWebsite http://www.yvetteallentatum.comTwitter: Twitter.com/loosed03
Facebook: Facebook.com/Yvette.tatum
Buy Links
Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/om77u4q Barnes & Nobles: http://tinyurl.com/ngowlaq Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/PXXx89XTDOAHosted by WNL Book Tour www.wnlbooktours.com
Author Tour Schedule: http://wnlbooktours.com/yvette-allen-tatum/
April 14, 2014
April 7, 2014
Hitting the Right Note Media Tour
Hitting the Right Note About the Book
JJ Isaacs’ dream of becoming an R&B star has come true, and it’s all thanks to Rayshawn, her amazing producer–and secret lover. But as JJ enters the spotlight, the relationship gets harder to disguise. And the more she hides the truth, the more distant she feels from her faith, and from her family’s approval. But support may come from an unexpected place…When JJ finds herself helping her estranged sister-in law, Sheree, through a difficult pregnancy, she discovers a surprising ally. But she also becomes enthralled with Sheree’s doctor. Simon Massri is world renowned–and scheduled to leave the country. The more time JJ spends with Simon, the more she questions her choices–in love and in work. Now she’ll have to face some tough decisions. Can she make peace with an uncertain future–if her heart is in the right place?About the Author
Rhonda Bowen knew she would be a writer as early as eighth grade when she wrote her first novel with a classmate in a dollar notebook. While waiting for the day to come, she spent a lively childhood growing up in Kingston, Jamaica and later attaining her Bachelor of Arts at the University of the West Indies. Not long after, her family moved to Toronto, Canada where she has worked in several areas including, public relations, event planning and now youth work, which is her main focus. Throughout this time however, her desire to write stayed constant. She eventually completed her first novel, Man Enough for Me, which was released under Kensington Books’ Dafina imprint in February 2011.Since then she has published several other novels including One Way or Another and Get You Good. Her newest release, Hitting the Right Note, will launch on March 25, 2014 in bookstores everywhere. Rhonda is excited for this new title and for the path that God has for her life. You can find her online at www.rhondabowen.com and facebook.com/RhondaBowenBooks. You can email her directly at Rhonda.bowen@yahoo.com. Purchase the Book Online at:Amazon.comBarnesandNoble.com
Visit the author online at: www.rhondabowen.com
Book Trailer-
JJ Isaacs’ dream of becoming an R&B star has come true, and it’s all thanks to Rayshawn, her amazing producer–and secret lover. But as JJ enters the spotlight, the relationship gets harder to disguise. And the more she hides the truth, the more distant she feels from her faith, and from her family’s approval. But support may come from an unexpected place…When JJ finds herself helping her estranged sister-in law, Sheree, through a difficult pregnancy, she discovers a surprising ally. But she also becomes enthralled with Sheree’s doctor. Simon Massri is world renowned–and scheduled to leave the country. The more time JJ spends with Simon, the more she questions her choices–in love and in work. Now she’ll have to face some tough decisions. Can she make peace with an uncertain future–if her heart is in the right place?About the Author
Rhonda Bowen knew she would be a writer as early as eighth grade when she wrote her first novel with a classmate in a dollar notebook. While waiting for the day to come, she spent a lively childhood growing up in Kingston, Jamaica and later attaining her Bachelor of Arts at the University of the West Indies. Not long after, her family moved to Toronto, Canada where she has worked in several areas including, public relations, event planning and now youth work, which is her main focus. Throughout this time however, her desire to write stayed constant. She eventually completed her first novel, Man Enough for Me, which was released under Kensington Books’ Dafina imprint in February 2011.Since then she has published several other novels including One Way or Another and Get You Good. Her newest release, Hitting the Right Note, will launch on March 25, 2014 in bookstores everywhere. Rhonda is excited for this new title and for the path that God has for her life. You can find her online at www.rhondabowen.com and facebook.com/RhondaBowenBooks. You can email her directly at Rhonda.bowen@yahoo.com. Purchase the Book Online at:Amazon.comBarnesandNoble.comVisit the author online at: www.rhondabowen.com
Book Trailer-
March 30, 2014
My Steps Are Ordered Sample and Book Trailer
A scene from "MY STEPS ARE ORDERED" second in the "On the Right Path Series" with Urban Books. Coming Jul. 29th.“Say you’ll be here for Gina’s party. Colleen and Terence can’t make it, so I’m counting on you to show your ugly face. Trey’s been asking for his favorite Uncle Keith. ” Michael Ward threw in that last tidbit for emotional blackmail.
Keith Ward grinned, picturing the little rambunctious boy giving Gina a run for her money. “I’m his only Uncle Keith. Is he still running like his pants are on fire?”
“Yup, and you should see Gina try to pick him up when he’s already half her size.”
Sitting in a leather chair in his offices located on Queens Blvd in New York, Keith propped his foot on another chair and looked up at the ceiling. Going to Atlanta would mean that he would be seeing her again. Gina. His blessing, and his curse. Who was he fooling? Of course he’d be there.
“Okay, I’ll be there and let me know if you need me to take care of anything on my end,” Keith offered. As soon as he ended the call, he grabbed his briefcase to head to the courthouse located two blocks away. He’d gotten a call that the judge was ready to make a ruling on the Harper case. After two grueling months, he was glad a decision had been made.
While he walked, he took a stroll down memory lane. Michael had been love struck when he’d met Gina Price, at the time, at his business partner, Terence Hayworth’s wedding. His brother tended to attract psychopaths so Keith had been prepared to dislike and dismiss this new woman who had his brother spellbound. But the moment he’d seen Gina Price, he’d gotten the shock of his life.
Before Gina, Keith hadn’t known that there was such a thing as instant love at first sight or even real animal attraction, but that was how it had been. Before her, he’d only been in love once, and Vanessa Arnold had been killed by a drunk driver. However, his feelings for Vanessa had paled in comparison, to what he felt for Gina.
Gina was like a fire that consumed him.
Keith stopped. He stood at the foot of the ten steps leading up to the entrance of the courthouse. He dragged his hands down his face, pulling on his cheeks as his memories flooded him.
Twice. On two sweet occasions, he’d been with Gina.
The first time was right before his brother’s near fatal car accident. Gina had found out that Michael had cheated with his crazy ex, Karen Newton, and had broken things off with him. He’d rushed to her house. To Keith, that had been fate, and he hadn’t had any reservations about professing his love. It sounded like the plot of a cheap romance novel, but he’d been convinced that Gina was his destiny. This was his time—his moment, he’d told himself, and his heart had rung with joy when Gina confessed she’d felt the same way.
However, for them there had been no happy-ever-after.
After he and Gina had shared one of the most mind-boggling, emotionally charged intimate experiences uniting their soul… Remembering, Keith felt the old guilt begin to eat at him again… The call came. And he’d had her, for one sweet night that he’d hoped would last forever. Little did either of them know, Michael, guilty about cheating on Gina, while speeding to her house, lost control of the vehicle and crashed, almost killing himself.
He remembered how his body had shaken with fear when he’d learned that Michael was in a coma. The wait had been agony. So, when by some divine intervention, Michael had awakened with no residual brain damage, Gina patched things up with him. At her urging, Keith and Gina agreed never to talk about what had transpired between them.
Plagued with guilt, Gina pressed, “It never happened.”
After his near death experience, Michael had wasted no time in putting a rock on Gina’s finger and wedding plans had commenced with so much speed that Keith felt like he was in a time warp.
Keith trudged up the stairs as her words pounded in his head. It never happened. He made a fist. But, it had.
And then, again.
There had been a second time. Keith shrugged. He’d better leave that as a secret of the past.http://michellelindorice.com/my-steps-are-ordered/
Pre-Order Your Copy
Keith Ward grinned, picturing the little rambunctious boy giving Gina a run for her money. “I’m his only Uncle Keith. Is he still running like his pants are on fire?”
“Yup, and you should see Gina try to pick him up when he’s already half her size.”
Sitting in a leather chair in his offices located on Queens Blvd in New York, Keith propped his foot on another chair and looked up at the ceiling. Going to Atlanta would mean that he would be seeing her again. Gina. His blessing, and his curse. Who was he fooling? Of course he’d be there.
“Okay, I’ll be there and let me know if you need me to take care of anything on my end,” Keith offered. As soon as he ended the call, he grabbed his briefcase to head to the courthouse located two blocks away. He’d gotten a call that the judge was ready to make a ruling on the Harper case. After two grueling months, he was glad a decision had been made.
While he walked, he took a stroll down memory lane. Michael had been love struck when he’d met Gina Price, at the time, at his business partner, Terence Hayworth’s wedding. His brother tended to attract psychopaths so Keith had been prepared to dislike and dismiss this new woman who had his brother spellbound. But the moment he’d seen Gina Price, he’d gotten the shock of his life.
Before Gina, Keith hadn’t known that there was such a thing as instant love at first sight or even real animal attraction, but that was how it had been. Before her, he’d only been in love once, and Vanessa Arnold had been killed by a drunk driver. However, his feelings for Vanessa had paled in comparison, to what he felt for Gina.
Gina was like a fire that consumed him.
Keith stopped. He stood at the foot of the ten steps leading up to the entrance of the courthouse. He dragged his hands down his face, pulling on his cheeks as his memories flooded him.
Twice. On two sweet occasions, he’d been with Gina.
The first time was right before his brother’s near fatal car accident. Gina had found out that Michael had cheated with his crazy ex, Karen Newton, and had broken things off with him. He’d rushed to her house. To Keith, that had been fate, and he hadn’t had any reservations about professing his love. It sounded like the plot of a cheap romance novel, but he’d been convinced that Gina was his destiny. This was his time—his moment, he’d told himself, and his heart had rung with joy when Gina confessed she’d felt the same way.
However, for them there had been no happy-ever-after.
After he and Gina had shared one of the most mind-boggling, emotionally charged intimate experiences uniting their soul… Remembering, Keith felt the old guilt begin to eat at him again… The call came. And he’d had her, for one sweet night that he’d hoped would last forever. Little did either of them know, Michael, guilty about cheating on Gina, while speeding to her house, lost control of the vehicle and crashed, almost killing himself.
He remembered how his body had shaken with fear when he’d learned that Michael was in a coma. The wait had been agony. So, when by some divine intervention, Michael had awakened with no residual brain damage, Gina patched things up with him. At her urging, Keith and Gina agreed never to talk about what had transpired between them.
Plagued with guilt, Gina pressed, “It never happened.”
After his near death experience, Michael had wasted no time in putting a rock on Gina’s finger and wedding plans had commenced with so much speed that Keith felt like he was in a time warp.
Keith trudged up the stairs as her words pounded in his head. It never happened. He made a fist. But, it had.
And then, again.
There had been a second time. Keith shrugged. He’d better leave that as a secret of the past.http://michellelindorice.com/my-steps-are-ordered/
Pre-Order Your Copy
March 26, 2014
Refusing to Accept 'NO' for an Answer
What A Testimony for Aspiring WritersWritten by Mrs. Joylynn M. Ross, Acquisitions Editor for Urban Books Joylynn wrote: "Refusing to accept 'No' for an answer. On March 2010, as the acquisitions
editor, I received a submission for publication consideration on the Urban Christian imprint. I
rejected it, not because it wasn't an interesting storyline with great content, but because it was all
over the place. It was hard to follow because of all of the technical errors. It also lacked the
tension I knew could exist due to the struggle and conflict between the characters. I wanted to be
more connected and care more about what happened to the characters. I wanted to be
emotionally drawn in. But with two characters talking in the same paragraph, incorrect
punctuation and capitalization after dialogue...I just couldn't get into it. I rejected it.
The author didn't complain and ask why it was rejected? She only asked what could she do to
make it better, if not for me, but for another publisher, and most importantly, so that it could be
something she was proud to put her name on. I gave her some tips and some suggestions. She
went in and did the best she could and resubmitted it, but it still wasn't quite there yet. She
worked on it some more and hired an agent. I rejected it when the agent sent it to me as well
because there was still something missing from the ingredients. This woman went and hired a
professional editor and submitted it yet again. This time I said no just because I was tired of
reading it-LOL. Not really-I'm just kidding. I did reject it again, though, because by then it just
wasn't what I was looking for to publish on the line at that time. So she waited several more
months and submitted it again.
I said, "God, she did everything I asked, but I still don't feel like the time is now." So what then
entered my spirit as a reply from God was, "It will be my time." Needless to say, three years to
the day, almost, that I received her submission, Theresa A. Campbell's first book was released on
the Urban Christian line and I'm currently editing her second one. Between the notes I gave her
and working with a professional editor, this second manuscript, God Has Spoken, is bringing
tears to my eyes. It is so well crafted and put together, that if she were a student and I her
professor, I'd accuse her of plagiarism. That same author who sent me that submission three
years ago is not the same author who wrote this book I'm now editing. This Theresa is the never
give up, do the best that I can do and do ALL that I can to do, don't accept 'No' for an answer and
wait on a 'yes' from God Theresa. This right here is why I love my job!"
Theresa A. Campbell, author of “Are You There, God?”
www.theresaacampbell.com
https://www.facebook.com/theresaacamp...
https://twitter.com/theresaacampbel
http://theresaacampbell.blogspot.com/
About the Book
As a young woman in rural Jamaica, Dupree struggles to maintain a home for herself and the ailing aunt who is raising her after she was abandoned by her teenage mother. The effort of life with no electricity, running water, or money often leaves Dupree battered and bruised, but she refuses to be defeated. She might have been forced to grow up too fast, but she will not succumb to the wiles of the devil, choosing instead to rely on the power of Almighty God to help her through.
After a brutal attack that takes her to hell and back, Dupree must reach for her inner strength once again to survive. Her journey for a better life leads her to Kingston, a city some people refer to as “Jamaica’s Sodom and Gomorrah.” There, she sees and experiences things beyond her imagination. Dupree seeks comfort in the arms of her Prince Charming—but he might just be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
Caught up in a web of lies and betrayal, Dupree fights to save her life. In pure desperation, she seeks an answer to her question, “Are you there, God?” Will she be around to hear His response, or will it be too late?
Order your Copy
editor, I received a submission for publication consideration on the Urban Christian imprint. I
rejected it, not because it wasn't an interesting storyline with great content, but because it was all
over the place. It was hard to follow because of all of the technical errors. It also lacked the
tension I knew could exist due to the struggle and conflict between the characters. I wanted to be
more connected and care more about what happened to the characters. I wanted to be
emotionally drawn in. But with two characters talking in the same paragraph, incorrect
punctuation and capitalization after dialogue...I just couldn't get into it. I rejected it.
The author didn't complain and ask why it was rejected? She only asked what could she do to
make it better, if not for me, but for another publisher, and most importantly, so that it could be
something she was proud to put her name on. I gave her some tips and some suggestions. She
went in and did the best she could and resubmitted it, but it still wasn't quite there yet. She
worked on it some more and hired an agent. I rejected it when the agent sent it to me as well
because there was still something missing from the ingredients. This woman went and hired a
professional editor and submitted it yet again. This time I said no just because I was tired of
reading it-LOL. Not really-I'm just kidding. I did reject it again, though, because by then it just
wasn't what I was looking for to publish on the line at that time. So she waited several more
months and submitted it again.
I said, "God, she did everything I asked, but I still don't feel like the time is now." So what then
entered my spirit as a reply from God was, "It will be my time." Needless to say, three years to
the day, almost, that I received her submission, Theresa A. Campbell's first book was released on
the Urban Christian line and I'm currently editing her second one. Between the notes I gave her
and working with a professional editor, this second manuscript, God Has Spoken, is bringing
tears to my eyes. It is so well crafted and put together, that if she were a student and I her
professor, I'd accuse her of plagiarism. That same author who sent me that submission three
years ago is not the same author who wrote this book I'm now editing. This Theresa is the never
give up, do the best that I can do and do ALL that I can to do, don't accept 'No' for an answer and
wait on a 'yes' from God Theresa. This right here is why I love my job!"
Theresa A. Campbell, author of “Are You There, God?”
www.theresaacampbell.com
https://www.facebook.com/theresaacamp...
https://twitter.com/theresaacampbel
http://theresaacampbell.blogspot.com/
About the BookAs a young woman in rural Jamaica, Dupree struggles to maintain a home for herself and the ailing aunt who is raising her after she was abandoned by her teenage mother. The effort of life with no electricity, running water, or money often leaves Dupree battered and bruised, but she refuses to be defeated. She might have been forced to grow up too fast, but she will not succumb to the wiles of the devil, choosing instead to rely on the power of Almighty God to help her through.
After a brutal attack that takes her to hell and back, Dupree must reach for her inner strength once again to survive. Her journey for a better life leads her to Kingston, a city some people refer to as “Jamaica’s Sodom and Gomorrah.” There, she sees and experiences things beyond her imagination. Dupree seeks comfort in the arms of her Prince Charming—but he might just be a wolf in sheep’s clothing.
Caught up in a web of lies and betrayal, Dupree fights to save her life. In pure desperation, she seeks an answer to her question, “Are you there, God?” Will she be around to hear His response, or will it be too late?
Order your Copy
March 25, 2014
CrossReads Book Blast: The Swaddling Clothes
Title: CrossReads Book Blast: The Swaddling Clothes, Amber Schamel
The Swaddling Clothes
By Amber Schamel
About the Book
Through the ages, many stories have been told about Mary, Joseph and the birth of the Messiah. Stories of shepherds and sheep, kings, angels, and stables. But there is one story that has never been told. One story that has remained hidden in the fabric of time. The story of The Swaddling Clothes.
Mentioned not once, but several times in the Scriptural text, what is the significance of these special cloths? And how did they make their way into a stable in Bethlehem? From the author that brought you the Days of Messiah series comes a whole new adventure critics are calling "intriguing...thought provoking... a fresh twist on an age old story."
"I get tired of Bible stories sometimes, but The Swaddling Clothes brings the story to life."
"Heartwarming... truly inspired. A story you will want to read again and again. Rich details and a suspenseful plot will keep you reading while giving you a glimpse of God's wonderful power and His amazing love."
LINK to KINDLE | LINK to PAPERBACK
Amber Schamel is a multi-published author of Christian Historical Fiction.
Her passion for history and culture has led her to travel extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and the Holy Land. Amber is actively involved in her church and enjoys volunteer work and music ministry. Raised in a family of twelve children and homeschooled throughout her education, she currently resides in the beautiful state of Colorado where she also serves as bookkeeper and marketing director for their family businesses. Find Amber on her blog, or on all the main social media sites.
Follow Amber Schamel
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Enter to Win a $50 Amazon Gift Card!
Enter below to enter a $50 Amazon gift card, sponsored by author Amber Schamel!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This book blast is hosted by Crossreads.
We would like to send out a special THANK YOU to all of the CrossReads book blast bloggers!
The Swaddling Clothes
By Amber Schamel
About the Book
Through the ages, many stories have been told about Mary, Joseph and the birth of the Messiah. Stories of shepherds and sheep, kings, angels, and stables. But there is one story that has never been told. One story that has remained hidden in the fabric of time. The story of The Swaddling Clothes.
Mentioned not once, but several times in the Scriptural text, what is the significance of these special cloths? And how did they make their way into a stable in Bethlehem? From the author that brought you the Days of Messiah series comes a whole new adventure critics are calling "intriguing...thought provoking... a fresh twist on an age old story."
"I get tired of Bible stories sometimes, but The Swaddling Clothes brings the story to life."
"Heartwarming... truly inspired. A story you will want to read again and again. Rich details and a suspenseful plot will keep you reading while giving you a glimpse of God's wonderful power and His amazing love."
LINK to KINDLE | LINK to PAPERBACK
Amber Schamel is a multi-published author of Christian Historical Fiction.
Her passion for history and culture has led her to travel extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and the Holy Land. Amber is actively involved in her church and enjoys volunteer work and music ministry. Raised in a family of twelve children and homeschooled throughout her education, she currently resides in the beautiful state of Colorado where she also serves as bookkeeper and marketing director for their family businesses. Find Amber on her blog, or on all the main social media sites.Follow Amber Schamel
Website | Facebook | Twitter
Enter to Win a $50 Amazon Gift Card!
Enter below to enter a $50 Amazon gift card, sponsored by author Amber Schamel!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This book blast is hosted by Crossreads.
We would like to send out a special THANK YOU to all of the CrossReads book blast bloggers!
March 17, 2014
Five-Star Review of Walk A Straight Line
I'd like to share a 5-Star review of Walk A Straight Line.
"The cost of friendship can be hard in Walk A Straight Line by Michelle Lindo-Rice. Colleen MacGregor turns her life over to God after her marriage to Terence Hayworth is sealed. Colleen works to be the best helpmate she can be while struggle to keep her friendship together with her best friend, Gina. Colleen soon realizes that she has to draw the line at some point. Colleen has a lot of her plate because the man she fell in love with is not the man she married. Colleen’s world takes a dark turn and she has to come to some harsh decisions.
Gina Price loves her best friend but the bible toting and holy than thou act is getting on her last nerve. Gina feels Colleen judges everything she does not that she hasn’t done some questionable things, but her friend should always support her. Gina also does not care for Terence because she has a feeling there is more to him than meets the eye. Gina is dealing with her own issues and does not need a lashing from her friend. Gina is dating Michael but has desires for his brother Keith. The attraction for Keith is one that cannot be ignored but what is she to do especially when Michael has proposed. Gina finds herself in a sticky situation, which will she choose?
Terence Hayworth has been preparing for the ministry and now has a wonderful wife to complete his look. Terence’s mother gives him advice as any mother would until he marries Colleen. Terence’s mother will do whatever she can to get rid of the new Mrs. Hayworth. Terence has a momma’s boy mentality that just may cost him everything especially when his wife puts her foot down at the situation. Will Terence learn his lesson? Or will he let his mother ruin his marriage?
What I Did Not Like: Terrence’s mother drove me crazy with frustration.
What I Did Like: It was about friendship, family and marriage. It expressed how hard it can be to have friends that are not saved. This book had well-developed characters, drama and suspense. The author does a wonderful job showing Colleen and Terence’s marriage evolving as the book progressed. I also love the fact that both Colleen and Terence had issues that caused them to stand up for themselves. I definitely recommend Walk A Straight Line to others.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
5 Stars=Non Stop Page Turner"
http://www.amazon.com/Walk-Straight-Line-Michelle-Lindo-Rice/dp/1601627777/ref=sr_1_cc_3?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1370541929&sr=1-3-catcorr&keywords=michelle+lindo+rice
"The cost of friendship can be hard in Walk A Straight Line by Michelle Lindo-Rice. Colleen MacGregor turns her life over to God after her marriage to Terence Hayworth is sealed. Colleen works to be the best helpmate she can be while struggle to keep her friendship together with her best friend, Gina. Colleen soon realizes that she has to draw the line at some point. Colleen has a lot of her plate because the man she fell in love with is not the man she married. Colleen’s world takes a dark turn and she has to come to some harsh decisions.
Gina Price loves her best friend but the bible toting and holy than thou act is getting on her last nerve. Gina feels Colleen judges everything she does not that she hasn’t done some questionable things, but her friend should always support her. Gina also does not care for Terence because she has a feeling there is more to him than meets the eye. Gina is dealing with her own issues and does not need a lashing from her friend. Gina is dating Michael but has desires for his brother Keith. The attraction for Keith is one that cannot be ignored but what is she to do especially when Michael has proposed. Gina finds herself in a sticky situation, which will she choose?
Terence Hayworth has been preparing for the ministry and now has a wonderful wife to complete his look. Terence’s mother gives him advice as any mother would until he marries Colleen. Terence’s mother will do whatever she can to get rid of the new Mrs. Hayworth. Terence has a momma’s boy mentality that just may cost him everything especially when his wife puts her foot down at the situation. Will Terence learn his lesson? Or will he let his mother ruin his marriage?
What I Did Not Like: Terrence’s mother drove me crazy with frustration.
What I Did Like: It was about friendship, family and marriage. It expressed how hard it can be to have friends that are not saved. This book had well-developed characters, drama and suspense. The author does a wonderful job showing Colleen and Terence’s marriage evolving as the book progressed. I also love the fact that both Colleen and Terence had issues that caused them to stand up for themselves. I definitely recommend Walk A Straight Line to others.
This book was provided by the author for review purposes.
Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews
5 Stars=Non Stop Page Turner"
http://www.amazon.com/Walk-Straight-Line-Michelle-Lindo-Rice/dp/1601627777/ref=sr_1_cc_3?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1370541929&sr=1-3-catcorr&keywords=michelle+lindo+rice
