Tracee Lydia Garner's Blog, page 6
July 28, 2017
Friday Features..
Janell B. Wojtowicz
[image error]
Janell Butler Wojtowicz, born and raised on an Iowa farm, was one of those kids who loved to write the dreaded “What I did on summer vacation” essay. It’s no surprise that she has spent her entire 30-year career in writing, including newspaper journalism, Christian higher education and nonprofit public relations, and local government public information. Much of her writing has been the “people stories” of trial, tragedy and triumph, which are reflected in her debut novel, “Embracing Hope.” Janell is a freelance writer/editor, and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She and her husband, Frank, live in New Brighton, Minnesota. She has two step-sons, a step-daughter-in-law and three step-granddaughters.
About Embracing Hope
Christian college dean Drew McKinley mourns his dead wife and still wears his wedding ring. He stumbles on a desperate journey to understand God’s motives for her tragic death. Crossing his perilous path is Allison, a graduate stud[image error]ent and new employee in the dean’s office. Even as she deals with financial hardships, she recognizes Drew’s unresolved grief from her own loss. Putting up a roadblock is Chris Whitney, the handsome but egotistical student senate president. He carries the secret burden of a dysfunctional family and a below-the-surface temper. The road Drew must navigate is fraught with career upheaval, a reawakening heart, substance and domestic abuse, a violent assault, and the struggle for forgiveness and restoration. Will Drew finish his journey to embrace the hope God offers, the love Allison shares, and the guidance Chris needs, or will he turn his back on all three with catastrophic consequences?
You can read more about Janell here on her
Amazon
Twitter http://www.Twitter.com/janellwoj
her Blog and
Author Facebook
July 24, 2017
Special Post: Blog Tour with Sylvia Hubbard
[image error]
[image error]I’m excited to feature an author that is making her mark in the literary world with her 40th (that’s right) book. Can you believe it? The Teegarner.com Blog visits today with Ms. Sylvia Hubbard for the release of Beautiful. Keep reading below to find out more.
Sylvia Hubbard knew she’d wanted to be a writer of romance long before she knew there were black writers in the world. Weaving stories magically as a summer past time to writing stories to get through the humdrum of school, she was able to create something from nothing.
Today, she has independently published 40 books, is the founder of Motown Writers Network and The Michigan Literary Network, CEO of HubBooks Literary Services, runs over five blogs on a variety of subjects, host The Michigan Literary Network Radio Show and is a happily divorced mother of three children in Detroit, Michigan.
Tell us a little about yourself and your background? I’m a happily divorced mother of three, living in Detroit and loving life.
According to my mother, I used to lie to her when I was young (about six years old) and she would punishment me by making me write my lie down. I found that my lies look better on paper than verbally. My pain became my life’s pleasure.
What are your ambitions for your writing career?
I’d love to be able to just sit down and write all day, market and social media manage in the evening and then go out on dates with my beau at night, then wake up and start the day over again, just like that.
What are you working on at the minute?
The Murderer’s Lover – about a woman who finds out she had a one night stand with a possible serial killer…and she wants to again.
Are you a pantser, plotter, a little of both?
I’m clearly a pantser. I just sit down and start to write. Usually at the worst part in my characters life and then roll ahead from there.
Do you have any tech tools that help you with your output?
I have this awesome electronic pen that I use to write out my stories when inspiration hits me. It records my strokes electronically and I can even save what I have written to be downloaded later and sometimes even digitally typed. I list other items that help me in my writer’s life on my website https://howtoebook.org/products/amazonproducts/
Do you put yourself on a schedule with a word or page count goal?
I never have a word or page count goal, I write until I’m tired. I know I’m
addicted to writing so overall a day, I should have produced about 10,000
words. Whether it’s from blogging, copyrighting, work writing, status messages
or fiction writing.
When did you decide to become a writer?
The day I met Beverly Jenkins. I saw someone like me who was an author and knew I could be an author too. She’s my Shero.
Where do you do most of your writing?
Up until Mother’s Day of this year, I did most of my writing lying or sitting In bed. My beau fixed up an office for me at home and I’m happy as a lark.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Believe in your idea and bring your writings in your head to fruition because you do not want to die with them inside of your brain. There is no download or recovery. There’s just you not leaving a legacy.
Do you write full-time or part-time? I’m a part-time writer.
I have three kids and as a busy single mom, I still need a benefit job to support braces, glasses, really great health care until they are I don’t mind the sacrifice. I love being a mom and I handle my writing career around my “benefit” job like a pro.
With this being your 40th book you must have figured out a way to be so prolific.
Get to work. Use every second of the day to be proactive at something. Stop telling myself I’m going to do it and just do it. And most of all, stop getting caught up on what I couldn’t do or accomplish and just try to do better the next day. I always love hearing about an author’s writing process so can you tell us about some bits of yours? When I need a lot of emotion in a scene especially when it comes to expressing how characters feel about something very strongly, an argument or even a powerful seduction seen, I have to literally talk it out and hear the convo out loud before I can write it down. I also hate complete silence. I have to have music playing or the tv running for white noise to I can concentrate.
How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?
In so many ways. I read my earlier work and I’m like wow I’ve grown. From listening to my editors, to learning more about my craft, I think my stories have grown creatively exponentially.
What is the hardest thing about writing?
Getting everyone in my family to respect my writing time and giving over the story to the character to let them finish telling it.
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
For a three hundred page book, (about 100 thousand words) it takes me about four
months when I sit my butt in a chair at least four times a week for about an hour.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In 10 years? 5 years
I hope to be traveling and speaking more about writing publishing and marketing, plus single busy mummying. In ten years, I hope to be a relaxing on the beach, just writing books and skyping speaking events. LOL
What other genres do you write?
Suspense Romance with a touch of noir, erotic, thriller, adventure, action, women’s contemporary, urban and/or drama. So someone will fall in love and someone will die, but I’m not sure what order it will come in.
Did you do any research for the book, Beautiful?
If so, how did you do it? (Searching Internet, magazines, other books, etc.) For Beautiful, Madison spliced plant DNA in order to create super veggies. I had to under a lot about DNA, extraction techniques and proper growth techniques. She also came up with beauty products naturally made and I had to get into a lot of organic techniques on how to make beauty products naturally. It was a fun
journey and I enjoyed learning how to do those things.
What about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
The strength of Madison and the journey she had to take to find the strength she already had inside of her. People will learn you really make diamonds from pressure and love – agape love between a man and woman can be shared in so many different ways, but you really have to love from your heart to understand it and receive it.
Do you have a saying or motto for your life and/or as a writer?
Never give anyone the keys to drive you crazy.
About The Book*
*Please note that this work of fiction contains mature content and depicts some graphic violence.
“I’m no superwoman,” she states with a smile that seems infinite on her lips. “I’m just being an asset in the world instead of a liability.”
[image error]
Madison wanted more than anything to be beautiful and meeting a tall, handsome stranger was the answer to her prayers. Yet, was meeting the stranger all a ploy to steal her valuable research? Or did he really love her? She must discover the truth, but will she survive or lose herself and everything she has worked for? Find the answers wrapped around suspense, drama, and romance in Beautiful, Author Sylvia Hubbard’s 40th Novel. Read the first five chapters of Beautiful, here.
Get Your Own Copy of Beautiful at These Book Retailers
Amazon | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble
iBooks | Kobo
Visit with Sylvia at her homes on the web
Facebook|Twitter|Instagram|Youtube|Periscope
Snapchat|Goodreads|Amazon Author Page
Beautiful BookTrailer
Sylvia’s Tour is hosted by
Creative Expressions Literary Services
Click Here To Follow The Tour
July 21, 2017
Friday Features…
Today’s Friday Features is all about Ms. Paulette Harper, who [image error], in addition to being an award winning author of Completely Whole, Paulette is an inspirational speaker, as well as a writing workshop instructor. She has a passion to coach aspiring authors and speak into the lives of women from every walk of life. Her literary works have been spotlighted in a growing number of publications, including CBN, Real Life Real Faith Magazine, Black Pearls Magazine and The Sacramento Observer. She has also appeared on numerous local and online radio shows.
Enjoy this excerpt of Secret Places Revealed
“Hello.”
“Aaron, good morning. This is Holly.”
“Good morning. What’s up?” He couldn’t imagine why Holly was calling, knowing he was on his way into work. He didn’t have anything pressing on his calendar or any clients coming into the office until later that afternoon.
She muttered, “Aaron, Mr. Kane is here to see you. He keeps coming to my desk, asking when you will be arriving. If he keeps pacing back and forth on that carpet in the sitting area like he’s doing right now, we might have to bill him for new carpet.”
Aaron let out a deep sigh. What is it now? “Okay. Tell Mr. Kane I’ll be there within the next fifteen minutes.” He paused. “Holly, pull the file.”
With a heavy sigh, he ended the call. He drove the rest of the way to work praying, Lord, my morning cannot start like this. He had an unnerving feeling about the meeting, but he didn’t know why.
Fifteen minutes later, he pulled into the parking lot. He grabbed his briefcase from the passenger’s seat and took the elevator up to his office. When the elevator doors opened, instead of seeing Simone’s beautiful face or being greeted by Holly, he was met by Mr. Kane, who had fire in his eyes.
Aaron forced a smile. “Good morning, Mr. Kane.”
“Aaron,” Mr. Kane grunted.
Aaron instructed Holly to hold all his calls. From the look in Mr. Kane’s eyes, Aaron could tell he hadn’t come to pat him on the back. The back of Aaron’s hair stood up as Mr. Kane trailed him into his office. Why does it feel like I’m about to get a beat-down?
“Come on in and have a seat.” Aaron sat in his chair and observed Mr. Kane pacing back and forth.
“No, thank you. I’ll stand.” The man blew out a terse breath. “Blackman, I trusted you with this project. And this is how you repay me?” His voice was shrill, harsh.
Aaron was about to respond, but Mr. Kane held up a hand, silencing him. Aaron’s eyes widened, but he remained calm.
“Were you trying to rip me off, or what?” He peered at Aaron and cleared his throat for the tenth time.
Aaron’s jaw tightened. He was getting furious. There was a long moment of silence between them. Aaron quickly rose to his feet. He stood at least two inches over the man. With one punch, he could send the man into his next dream. Aaron gave him an exasperated look instead. “Mr. Kane, what do you mean, ‘trying to rip you off’? Blackman and Blackman is a reputable organization, and I take offense. I would strongly recommend you explain your statement.”
Mr. Kane tossed the financial reports on Aaron’s desk. “Gladly. Those are the financials we received in my office. My accountant looked them over and informed me that the bottom line is over the original budget by four million dollars.”
Aaron frowned. “That can’t be correct. I looked over the reports myself and verified the amounts before they were sent to you. There must be some logical explanation.” Aaron grunted. He felt like a scratched record. The last time Mr. Kane was in the office, Aaron had given him the same response. His heart rate increased as he glanced over the report. “I need time to look this over and see where the mistake is.”
“Don’t bother, Blackman. Time is money, and mistakes like this are costing me.” He paused to take a breath. “I’ve decided to take my project to LW Partners instead. I hear Lamont is one of the best in the Bay Area, also.”
Aaron’s face tightened. “Mr. Kane, give me until later today to see what happened. I’m sure the mistake will be corrected.”
“Blackman, you sound like a broken record.”
Aaron’s anger rose several notches. His level of tolerance diminished. “Mr. Kane, do I need to remind you that we have a signed contract?”
“No, you don’t need to remind me at all. Sue me then, Blackman.” He turned and walked out of the office, slamming the door behind him.
Aaron collapsed in his chair. What happened? He was in disbelief. Did he say he was giving the project to Lamont Willis? He leaned back in his chair and loosened his tie. One of the biggest projects of my career slipped out of my hands … because of a mistake.
All the time and long hours wasted, not to mention the money the firm was planning on making. He sighed heavily as he stared, bewildered. He sat in confusion, replaying the last few minutes in his head. The more he thought about it, the more annoyed he got. Why does Lamont Willis’s name keep popping up?
Lamont was his archenemy—professionally and personally. Out of all the real estate developers in the Bay Area, Mr. Kane had selected him. Why? Aaron pounded his fist on the table. The man was a scumbag and a cheat. How did he manage to steal this project away from me?
Aaron thought about the last time he’d seen Lamont. How could I forget? He came to pick up Simone for lunch. He remembered the smirk on Lamont’s face. A twinge of irritation crawled over Aaron’s skin.
Aaron and Simone had looked over the financials together. They were all in order. Everything was correct. So, what happened between Simone leaving his office and Mr. Kane receiving the package? Something wasn’t right. It didn’t add up. Could she have bungled the reports? But why? No. Aaron. She’s too meticulous. She would have never made that kind of mistake.
His mind traveled to the times all three of their paths had crossed. Lunch at Le Cheval. Maybe that would explain her nervousness that day. The conference in Las Vegas. He’d seen them talking. Lamont came to the office to pick her up for lunch. The roses—she’d never divulged their sender. I’d bet good money they were from Lamont.
It was obvious Lamont was attracted to her, but she’d led Aaron to believe she wasn’t interested in Lamont.
Knowing Lamont, he’d use anybody to vex Aaron, including Simone. Aaron, you’ve lost your mind.
Hmm, have I? Could they be working together? If they were, she was really good at fooling him. He felt a tightening in the pit of his stomach. His skin crawled.
His eyes flew to their picture on his phone. The selfies they had taken at Yoshi’s. His feelings were all over the place. One moment, he dismissed the thoughts of her and Lamont conspiring together. The next, he pondered the possibility.
Nah. Not Simone.
He was emotional, but he had to know the truth.
Aaron marched into Simone’s office and threw open the door. She jumped in her seat as he slammed it shut. She spun in his direction, and he stared her down with dark, piercing eyes. “We need to talk.”
About Secret Places Revealed
He wasn’t looking for love.
[image error]She was running from the pain.
One encounter changed everything.
Single—and very content—real estate developer Aaron Blackman is determined not to become involved in another relationship. He’s experienced enough drama to last a lifetime. The only thing garnering his attention now is his growing business. And he plans to keep it that way. Then Simone Herron waltzes into his life, beautiful and confident. Fighting to keep his promise to himself—to remain single—he soon discovers that when it comes to love, some promises must be broken.
After losing her fiancé in an untimely death, Simone Herron relocates. She desperately needs to put the past behind her and start a new chapter in her life. While love is the farthest thing from her mind, she experiences an attraction to the handsome Aaron Blackman that frightens her. She’s built a wall around her heart, but can she find the strength and courage she needs to welcome love again? To do so, she must conquer her fears and allow God to put all of her broken pieces back together.
Get Your Copy of Secret Places Revealed today on Amazon and visit with Paulette on
Website
Goodreads
and on Instagram
July 14, 2017
Friday Features
stops by for Today’s #FridayFeatures! Please enjoy getting to know more about her.
[image error] Patricia Sargeant writes romantic suspense and sci-fi/fantasy. She writes contemporary romance as Regina Hart and cozy mysteries as Olivia Matthews.
Let’s Take a Look At an Excerpt. Enjoy!
In the spotlight, deception, desire and danger become one …
Excerpt:
Malcolm saw the flicker of doubt in Nicole’s eyes before she lowered her gaze.
“After you walked out on me, I never thought you would willingly come anywhere near me again,” she said. “But Denise told me Celestial Productions approached her.”
Malcolm pushed away the guilt her words evoked, reminding himself he wasn’t the only one to blame for their relationship failing.
“Nicky, you pushed me away. After-”
“Don’t.” She held up a slim hand, pain clouding her ebony eyes. “I don’t want to talk about it, Malcolm.”
He dropped his gaze to hide his own pain. “Fair enough.” Business. Stick to business. “Ty and I are very excited about the idea of owning the movie rights to InterDimensions. We enjoy science fiction, and we’d do a good job with your book.”
Nicole turned toward the window. “And you’d give me everything I asked for. Allow me final approval on the screenplay, and input on the shooting locations, the cast and the final cut.”
“Yes.” Malcolm frowned at the tightness of her tone.
“Tempting.” Nicole turned back to him. “But deals with the devil usually are.”
About YOU BELONG TO ME
Science fiction author Nicole Collins is delighted when she learns her first book will be made into a movie by Celestial Productions – until she finds out who owns the company: Malcolm Bryant, her ex-husband. Nicole still loves him, but she fears Malcolm is the same man who crumbles in the face of adversity. And then there are those threatening letters…
Somewhere out there is a deranged fan, one who has adopted Nicole’s characters as his own family – and he’s not about to see his loved ones distorted by the camera lens. Nicole’s life is in danger. With a killer closing in, the only person who may be able to save Nicole is Malcolm – the man she so desperately hopes will finally make a stand.
Visit Patricia here on Social Media
Facebook:
On Twitter
Sign up for her E-newsletter:
Purchase Your Copy of YOU BELONG TO ME on Amazon and Barnes and Noble
[image error]
July 7, 2017
Friday Features
Marianna Heusler
Marianna Heusler is an Edgar nominated author of ten novels and hundreds of[image error] short stories.
Her cozy series, taking place at St. Polycarp School, in which two amateur teachers solve murder mysteries, are originally published by Hilliard & Harris. The first three novels were chosen by Harlequin as part of their Worldwide Book Club. The fourth book in the series, Trouble Purse Sued, was just released.
A former elementary teacher at an all girls’ school, Marianna makes her home in New York City with her husband and her son and her little dog, Dolce.
Here’s an excerpt of Trouble Purse Sued…
Where are you?”
The desperation in Mrs. Hopwood’s voice immediately put Mrs. Johnson on guard. “I’m just leaving the baseball field, after watching the twins play. I have to tell you that they’re the backbone of the team. I wouldn’t be surprised if they end up being professional players.”
“They’re six years old. Listen, you have to do me a favor.”
“What sort of favor?” Mrs. Johnson was wary as she rifled through her handbag for her car keys.
“I need for you to come and pick me up at my Aunt Eunice’s. It’s not far, right on Franklin Street. And if you can, bring the van.”
“That’s not possible.” Mrs. Johnson was irritated by the request because she thought in spite of her protests, she was probably going to get roped into doing the favor. “I’m meeting Peter and the twins at Alfredo’s for pizza. He has the van. I thought Montgomery was picking you up.”
“Well, here’s the thing.” Mrs. Johnson hated it when Mrs. Hopwood said, “here’s the thing” because it always involved a long, complicated, convoluted explanation. “Evidently Aunt Eunice used to have a shop, where she sold used clothing, which, of course, now is vintage clothing. You wouldn’t believe what I found in one of the trucks. The most exquisite dresses and skirts and blouses and jewelry, and five handbags, well, four, because I took one. And Monte, well, he refuses to let me bring the stuff in the house. He actually had the nerve to call me a hoarder.”
“You are a hoarder, Julia.”
Mrs. Hopwood was undeterred. “Whatever. So I was thinking that maybe, just maybe, you could store the clothing and the bags and the jewelry, in your cellar, in that nice little space you have near your boiler. And then every morning you could bring me an outfit, your choice, and I could change in the teachers’ room and then I could change back at the end of the day and that way Monte would never suspect that I’m wearing the clothes and he couldn’t accuse me of hoarding because I’m not the one who is actually doing the hoarding. Of course, it would be really great if you could text me in the morning to let me know which outfit you choose and, then that way, I could make sure that I bring in the matching accessories.”
For a moment Mrs. Johnson was speechless. When she finally found her voice, she lashed out. “Have you lost your mind?!” She was screaming so loudly that a group of parents (on the losing team who stared at her every time she clapped for her twins) were now glaring at her. She lowered her voice. “You don’t think I have enough to do in the morning, trying to get the boys ready for school, prepping myself to come in to St. Polycarp and deal with a hostile staff, worried about losing my job in the fall, and now my back is killing me -”
“What’s wrong with your back?”
“I’m in horrible pain, probably from lifting the twins. You have asked me to do some insane things, some dangerous things, but this – this!”
“All right, all right, calm down.”
Mrs. Johnson did not liked to be told to calm down when she had every reason to be irate. And where were her darn keys? She hated this handbag.
“No one seems to realize how valuable this merchandise is, especially the jewelry. There are price tags on everything and even in those days, they were high end.”
“Then why don’t you,” Mrs. Johnson had finally located her key ring, stuck to the bottom of her purse, “for once in your life do something for someone else and sell all the clothing and jewelry and donate the profits to St. Polycarp?”
Mrs. Hopwood was silent. Mrs. Johnson suspected she had gone too far.
“That was unkind,” Mrs. Hopwood was clearly hurt.
“I’m sorry. I’m just really overwhelmed. I got to go.”
“No! Don’t hang up. I just got a brilliant idea. Why don’t we have a fashion show? You know the upper school girls think that they’re models already and they would love to strut down the runway wearing Aunt Eunice’s clothes.”
“And how exactly does this hair brain scheme make money for St. Polycarp?”
“We can hold an auction and sell the clothing right off of their backs.” Mrs. Johnson hesitated, which gave Mrs. Hopwood the opportunity to jump right in. “I’ll do all the work. You won’t have to do a single thing, except come and get me and the clothing right now. You have to admit, I might be a little shaky when it comes to the metric system and world geography, but one thing I do know is fashion. And there’s then Sister Grace Maria -”
“Sister Mary Grace”
“When she sees how much money we made and how hard we’re trying, she’s sure to reevaluate her plans for September.”
“Well, maybe” Mrs. Johnson was thinking of all the things which could go wrong.
“You won’t regret it,” Mrs. Hopwood promised.
[image error]Get your copy of Trouble Purse Sued at Amazon.
Visit Marianna’s Blog
Website
Goodreads
June 30, 2017
Friday Features
Kris Bock
[image error]
Let’s visit with Kris Bock’s Romantic Adventures and hear about the Indiana Jones-ish The Mad Monk’s Treasure
A legendary treasure hunt in the dramatic – and deadly – New Mexico desert…. Reviewers give it a 4.7 star average: “The story has it all – action, romance, danger, intrigue, lost treasure, not to mention a sizzling relationship….”
Get this romantic adventure #FREE at ebook retailers!
The lost Victorio Peak treasure is the stuff of legends – a heretic Spanish priest’s gold mine, made richer by the spoils of bandits and an Apache raider. When Erin, a quiet history professor, uncovers a clue that may pinpoint the lost treasure cave, she prepares for adventure. But when a hit and run driver nearly kills her, she realizes she’s not the only one after the treasure. And is Drew, the handsome helicopter pilot who found her bleeding in a ditch, really a hero, or one of the enemy?
Erin isn’t sure she can trust Drew with her heart, but she’ll need his help to track down the treasure. She heads into the New Mexico wilderness with her brainy best friend Camie and a feisty orange cat. The wilderness holds its own dangers, from wild animals to sudden storms. Plus, the sinister men hunting Erin are determined to follow her all the way to the treasure, no matter where the twisted trail leads. Erin won’t give up an important historical find without a fight, but is she ready to risk her life – and her heart?
“Great balance of history, romance, and adventure. Smart romance with an “Indiana Jones” feel. Well-written with an attention to detail that allowed me to picture exactly in my head how a scene looked and played out.”
[image error]Author Kris Bock in the great outdoors
Kris Bock writes novels of suspense and romance with outdoor adventures and Southwestern landscapes. The Mad Monk’s Treasure follows the hunt for a long-lost treasure in the New Mexico desert. In The Dead Man’s Treasure, estranged relatives compete to reach a buried treasure by following a series of complex clues. In The Skeleton Canyon Treasure, sparks fly when reader favorites Camie and Tiger help a mysterious man track down his missing uncle. Whispers in the Dark features archaeology and intrigue among ancient Southwest ruins. What We Found is a mystery with strong romantic elements about a young woman who finds a murder victim in the woods. In Counterfeits, stolen Rembrandt paintings bring danger to a small New Mexico town.
In these books, readers get a glimpse of the adventurous side of the Southwest – you won’t even need hiking boots! Read excerpts at www.krisbock.com or visit her Amazon page. Sign up for the Kris Bock newsletter for announcements of new books, sales, and more.
June 28, 2017
How do you write, LaShaunda Hoffman?
Enjoy our final author, Ms. LaShaunda Hoffman, here’s what she has to share about her own writing process:
[image error]I decided at 16 that I would be the Black Jackie Collins. I was going to write these hot passionate books and be on the best-selling lists. I so did not have a clue, but it was the beginning of my writing career that would take me on a crazy journey.
I wish I could say I have a process for my writing but to be honest I don’t. I write when I can or when the muse hits me. Before I became a wife and mother, I would spend the whole weekend in front of my word processor; yes you read right, word processor. Back then I didn’t have the funds for a computer. I went from a typewriter at sixteen to a Brother’s Word Processor and I used it for many years.
Fast forward to 2017 and I use a laptop, but I do most of my writing on paper. I still love the feel of writing the story out then typing it. I guess that’s from using a typewriter when your ribbon was precious so you reserved it for the final draft.
Now that I have a family, I no longer get the luxury of writing all day. Lately, I find myself waking up early. I used to find a note pad and go into the bathroom and write. Most mornings now I grab my phone and open up the Evernote app.
I write what comes to mind. Sometimes it’s just a few paragraphs or if I’m lucky a whole article.
Articles have been my muse for the past year. I haven’t done much fiction writing since my book released in 2015.
I’ve been trying to find the fiction muse so I can complete this book I’ve been working on for what seems like years. I’m dealing with a lot of fear where it’s concerned.
Mainly because it’s fiction and my first book is nonfiction. All those fears I had before I released the first book has returned for this book. I think a little stronger.
I refuse to let fear win. This book will be completed.
Back to my writing process, I used to write on any paper I could find during crazy times like at the stop light or when I’m in the shower.
The Evernote and the Dragon apps have saved me from wet paper and killing myself from driving while trying to write.
If I’m in a spot I can’t physically write the Dragon app is perfect for talking it all out. I’ve written many blog posts on the drive to work.
The Evernote app is great for when you don’t have paper or just want to get your thoughts down. If you carry your phone everywhere like I do, then you always have it for when the muse pops up.
One day I plan to have a writing process. I’ll get up and write for four hours take a break and write for two more hours. I know I’m dreaming right now because retirement is a few years away so I’ll continue writing when I can and when the muse hits me.
Why stop a system that works for you? I learned a long time ago that every writer is different, you have to find what works for you and write. As long as I’m writing that means its working.
I’d like to thank Tracee for offering me this opportunity to share with you today. Next month I’m hosting a summit – Produce *Publish*Promote Summit for writers. It’s all about writing, publishing and promoting. I invite you to register for the free three day event.
I’m LaShaunda Hoffman a promotion strategist. I help writers and business owners become social butterflies by building online relationships. I’m the publisher of SORMAG Digital – an award winning digital magazine for multi-cultural literature. I’m the author of Building Online Relationships –One Reader At A Time – a promotion plan in a book.
[image error] LaShaunda’s book Building Online Relationships is available now wherever books are sold.
I love books and book promotion and you can find me online at:
LaShaunda Hoffman’s Website
lchwriter@gmail.com
SORMAG – http://sormag.blogspot.com
Email LaShaunda at 1sormag@gmail.com
Periscope
Click here to receive my weekly promotion newsletter – See Ya On Net – Tips on how to become a social butterfly.
June 26, 2017
Special Post…Meet Taiwo
Today, I’m excited to visit with an author of a completely different genre outside of any romantic notions. I love children so why not have a wonderful new children’s book author here at the Teegarner Blogosphere? Enjoy discovering and learning more about
Ms. Taiwo I. Ajao
Let’s spend some time getting to know more about Taiwo….
What’s your name or pen name?
For years I’ve written under the title Lyrics by tia. Now that my writing is beginning to merge with my professional life in nursing and public health, I use TI Ajao RN
What are your genres?
My first book is a creative Biography about my Mom’s childhood. I like creative non-fiction because I get inspired by real stories, and it gives me the push to write
What have you written?
I have written a creative Biography called “Adunni Dares to Dream”. It is a true story about my mom’s difficult childhood. It inspires me deeply. My next move is a special book of true stories by my Dad, to be introduced in July 2017.
When did you begin your writing career?
I began to write as a blogger in 2010 after I had my first baby. It was my new-mother experience that inspired me.
Are you a full-time or part-time writer? How do you make time to write?
I am an all-the-time writer! I fit in writing when I am inspired. This can be as simple as scribbling down ideas as they pop in my head, or using my phone to record ideas when they fill my heart.
Tell us about your writing process?
Writing for me has been very sporadic. I have dreamed about it for many, many years. Writing this book was a pleasant surprise. I didn’t truly have control over it. It came over me unexpectedly. Completing this book is God’s gift to me. I feel like it wasn’t even the works of my hands.
I did have to be deliberate about putting all the pieces together. I had a working document and I made sure all my ideas ended up there. It allowed me to organize seamlessly and present a concrete product to my editors.
I use what always makes me feel comfortable and soothed: soft or nostalgic music, warm lighting and of course my feet up in a recliner!
Do you keep a journal? If so, for how long? Do you find it helpful for your professional writing?
I did! I started journalling as early as 13 years old as a confused teenager. I had so many thoughts, feelings and emotions that I couldn’t handle alone, so I began to write them out in a book as prayers, poems, songs and conversations to God. One book turned to maybe 50 over the years! When I started longing for marriage, I would write prayers for him and dream. Then when I started a long distance friendship with my now husband, we would instant message daily which brought out both of our writing potential! After our first baby, I began to blog and get into social media. To be honest, social media turned into my journal. This can be positive…or negative. Essentially, all of this full and deep writing have become like a invaluable treasure chest! Some will be shared, but even more importantly, our legacy is preserved.
Becoming a professional writer has helped me turn my inspiration into an investment: a book that all can read for themselves and to their children.
Tell us about you inspiration?
The Acts of God. His Faithfulness. His Love and His Grace. I am inspired by the Victories He has made in my life. I want to burst out almost everyday thinking of ALL that He has done. I throw out how I feel in social media a lot! I just have a hard time keeping it in! I feel like everyone needs to know what God has done!
I am also inspired by parents’ stories and all that I have watched happen in their lives and relationship. A lot of areas in my life mirror that of my parents. Writing my books started by a deep desire to honor them. Honoring my parents is the “WHY” of my professional writing career.
What kind of legacy do you expect your writing to leave?
I came to the understanding that I am here today because of the Legacy of all of those who came before me. My first goal is to honor my parents and their stories, which of course includes that of my grandparents, great grandparents and beyond. These stories validate my humble stories. Because of them, I am.
My 2nd goal is to build myself as a stronger supporter of my husband. He is my illustrator, producer and publisher. Putting pen to paper is 5% of the work, while his role was so much more than the other 95%. His contributions are just too tremendous! I was so surprised at how little I could do after the words were done! My parents’ interwoven story has shown me what marriage is all about. As my husband and I continue to develop concepts together and develop our professional selves as educators and clinicians, I pray to leave a legacy of love for our kids and grow closer as a team.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Wait for it. Pray for it. It is the inspiration from God that will bring forth our books. Every part of each project, from the written word, to the illustration, to the masterpiece of the cover must be inspired. GOD still works miracles. Writing a book was my ultimate impossibility! I gave up on it a long time ago and figured i’ll just keep handing out my ideas frivolously on social media. When this book started to come to being, it could have only been God, and thus, all the glory is His!
What’s on your bookshelf or in your e-reader library?
I have a lovely kid’s book for 0 to 5 year olds called “I am Worth The Wait” by Dr. Lindsay Marsh-Warren. I know Dr. Marsh-Warren personally. She too has a very deep testimony along with a powerful ministry called The Worth The Wait Revolution. My boys LOVE her kids’ book! It teaches them big words and validates them.
“The Supa Dupa Kid” is by TY Allan Jackson, an amazing action-author who adds true meaning to the industry. This was the first chapter book my sons & I have ever completed together. They were so excited that they would remind me of our 1 chapter commitment every night.
I’ve also fallen in love with a book called “Dylan’s Big Surprise at the Doctor” by Kishma Anthony. Kishma is another action-author who brings life to the message of her story when she interacts with children. She has also been an inspiration and I love how to promotes the healthcare profession!
I am enamored by a Historical Fiction novel by my friend, Author Nike C Fatoki called Thread of Gold Beads. It is the first grown-up book i’ve read in ages! Such a beautiful rendering of legacy & culture! She was the first I reach out to for advice. I am excited about the example that she leads.
What are you currently working on?
I am currently working on a special book of wisdom about the character “Mike” in “Adunni Dares to Dream”. When writing Adunni’s story, the Mike character began to impress me more and more, and I began to dream of ways to shed light on his actions & wise ways. My goal is to introduce “Mike Makes a Move: Golden Nuggets of Truth from Uncle Mike” this July 2017. I am very excited.
Tell us about your main character? What actress or actor would you cast to play him or her in a movie about your book?[image error]
Well, we can see Adunni more as an animated character. Her voice however would be acted by an amazing woman who has truly put our culture on the map. Her name is Rashidat Fawehinmi-Raji of HerGist.com. Rashidat has been the creative genius behind the cultural dialect depicted in the book. She is extremely talented and funny and would be perfect as the voice of Adunni!
Please let us know, how we can purchase your work?
Proceeds from the Book goes directly to Medical, Public Health & Educational Outreach to support poor children like little Adunni, starting in her home town in Nigeria, West Africa. To obtain a copy, please make a donation at http://www.AdunnisDream.com
Tell my readers how to stay in touch with you?
[image error]Author Taiwo Ajao and her illustrator / husband Olawale Ajao
Readers can visit my Bookshop
Like and Be a Friend on Facebook
Instagram: tiajao_rn
and she also has a Blog
June 23, 2017
Friday Features
Peg Herring
[image error]Author Peg Herring
Peg Herring believes books should be full of interesting characters. Hers include a man with a disability who becomes Elizabeth Tudor’s friend, a homeless woman, a dead detective, and an unwilling kidnapper. Putting intriguing people into strange and dangerous circumstances results in her mantra: Strong Women, Great Stories.
Peg lives in Michigan with an interesting husband, an interesting cat, and a lot of interesting friends who help when she runs into a plot knot.
Excerpt Chapter One – Her Ex-GI PI
***Hitching her purse strap higher on her shoulder, Carrie picked up the last trash can by its handles, feeling the cold metal through her gloves. The can smelled of mimeograph ink and something fruity, maybe peaches. It was full, and she concentrated on keeping it upright so as not to spill the contents as she entered the alley. Along the wall were the six cans she’d lugged back earlier, and she headed for the end of the line, waddling clumsily under the weight she carried.
Movement to her right caught her eye, and Carrie peered toward the opposite end of the alley. Two men stood over a third figure, all silhouetted against a lighter building across the street. Though Carrie saw only shapes, one man appeared to be searching the fallen one’s clothing while the other stood back, separating himself from the action. Surprise caused Carrie to tip the can she carried, and its lid dropped to the pavement with a clatter. The two standing men looked toward her, startled. An instant later they reacted, disappearing around the building.
Carrie stood for a moment in shock, struggling to take in what she’d seen. When she recovered her wits, she hurried to where the fallen man lay flat on his back, very still. “Are you all right?” He moaned softly in response. After checking the street to be sure his attackers were gone, she knelt beside him on the cold bricks.
He was about her age, with even features that were pinched with pain. In the shadowy light Carrie saw his corduroy jacket and tight-ribbed sweater were stained with blood that bubbled from a wound in his chest. Instinctively she put her hand over it, trying to stop the flow. Could he live through the loss of so much blood?
The man seemed aware of her presence. His mouth moved, and he tried to form words. She leaned close, still applying pressure to the wound. “Lie still. I’ll get help, and we’ll get you to a hospital.”
Surprisingly strong fingers gripped her hand, and the man tried again to speak, a whisper coming with each ragged breath. Carrie listened intently. Whatever he had to say was important to him.
“Tell Jack—Namwise, Kali—Shurenz. Please—Jack.”
Feeling the fingers begin to lose their grip, Carrie looked into the dying man’s eyes and said, “I’ll tell Jack exactly what you said. Now lie still.” A strangled sigh told her no doctor could save the man. Instead she stayed with him, holding his hand until the grip relaxed. Then, with tears in her own eyes, she closed his sightless ones and went to find a different kind of help. ***
About Her Ex-GI PI
[image error]
Carrie Walsh is a 1960’s girl with a job she hates and a tendency to think of herself as unimportant. When she witnesses a murder in Flint, Michigan, Carrie’s life takes a new direction. Following the instructions the victim whispered as he lay dying, she goes to meet Jack Porter, a handsome, brooding Vietnam veteran mistreated by life and disabled by war. The two join forces to find out why his best friend and army buddy was stabbed in an alley. As she works with Jack over time, Carrie begins to feel less like the hopeless ugly duckling her mother believes her to be.
Suspense builds as Jack and Carrie look into the cases of other men who survived Vietnam only to die soon after they came back to “the world.” Just when they start to trust each other, Carrie discovers Jack brought secrets home from the war, secrets that create disappointment, uncertainty, and the very real possibility she’s the target for the next murder.
Visit Peg at her:
Website,
Twitter or
Purchase a copy of Her Ex-GI P.I. here in Print and
Ebook
June 21, 2017
How do you write, Mary Manners?
Mary Manners
I love to write. I have been writing since before I knew how to form letters (I would scribble on paper and then share my story aloud). To me, writing is akin to breathing; I must engage in it to have life.
I am a Pantser by nature, but I do begin each story by creating a notebook that contains basic story ideas and elements, as well as character traits and descriptions. This is especially necessary when constructing stories that are part of a series. My favorite part of writing is when a character does something completely unexpected. It’s so much fun to see where a story takes me.
[image error]
One week, during middle school, I had a particularly rough time. I remember asking my dad why certain things happen. To answer, he brought home a poster of a dog in a washtub with the headline, “Is today really necessary?” He told me to use life experiences in my writing, and it worked. Now, when I write, I think of him and understand the purpose in certain life events.
I love coffee and scented candles. I never listen to music while I am creating, but scents really put me in the mood to write. If I am working on a Christmas novella in the summer, a pine-scented candle really helps to create an aura of the holiday season. My favorite writing days begin at about 4am with a cup of black coffee and a veil of pre-sunrise darkness. It’s cool to create an entire alternate universe and watch it come alive while the world is still nestled soundly in bed.
To all new writers, my advice is to stick with it. Successful writers carry on even when it’s not fun, or they don’t feel like writing. You cannot wait for your muse to visit. You must go out and chase that muse, tackle him and drag him home. I spent many years running marathons. This training has helped me tremendously to stay true to my path as a writer, especially when the going gets tough. Never, ever give up.
[image error]
Mary’s latest novel, Veiled Gems is coming soon.
A little More About, Mary Manners is a country girl at heart who has spent a lifetime exploring her joy of writing. She has two sons, a daughter, and three beautiful grandchildren. She currently lives along the sunny shores of Jacksonville Beach with her husband Tim.
[image error]A former teacher as well an intermediate school principal, Mary spent three decades sharing her love of learning. While growing up in Chicago, Mary worked her way through a variety of jobs including paper girl, hot dog vendor, grocery store cashier, lifeguard, swim instructor, pizza chef, and nanny. Many of these experiences led to adventures that bring humor and insight to her stories. Mary loves long sunrise runs, ocean sunsets, and flavored coffee.
Connect with Mary at her website and “Like” her author page on Facebook and “follow” her on Twitter.
