In Touch with Strebor Books Author Marsha Jenkins-Sanders

Who is Marsha Jenkins-Sanders?

Initially, I began to write to heal; now I write to evoke thought and change. Airing my LIFE challenges, by way of my fictional novels, was not something I set out to do when I began to journal my anger, bitterness, and venomous thoughts that were solely centered on and directed at my ex, Keith Washington. I wrote to heal and in the process my debut novel, The Other Side of Through, was birthed.

The drama that accompanied my decision to leave that relationship began before my departure and escalated immensely when I finally "woke up", filed for divorce, and moved on with my life. Once I began writing about the unbelievable chaos that surrounded me and my decisions to "dump the baggage", be my own person, think for myself, and do what made me happy, my sophomore novel, Jealousy...A Strange Company Keeper, took on a life of it's own!

With God at the helm, I continue this Spiritual journey. Each new ending has produced mind-boggling beginnings. I am truly grateful for the peaks and valleys. In them, God meets me and his grace and mercy abounds. Knowing Whose I am and Whom I serve has given me immeasurable peace and the gift of surrender.

I live happily, prayerfully, and peacefully with my husband and sons in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan.

You can learn more about Marsha and her literary works by checking her out at her website and on MySpace.

INTERVIEW

Fill in the blank: "To read JEALOUSY: A STRANGE COMPANY KEEPER is to be entertained and informed.”


In screenwriting, a logline is a one-sentence summary of a script. Typically, a logline does three things: tells who the main character is and what he/she wants, tells who or what stands in his/her way, and tells what makes the story unique. Having said that, imagine the poster for JEALOUSY: THE MOVIE. What would its logline read?
Hung up on what she doesn’t have, can't have, or won't ever have, Rochelle Jackson, born without “the pretty gene” and living in the shadow of her cousin, Dakota North, who has the gene, will stop at nothing to dethrone this reigning Prima Donna, whom she believes is the reason for her unhappiness.


What themes, topics will readers find between the pages of JEALOUSY?
Jealousy is a volatile and destructive emotion, if left unchecked. It has been the driving force behind many homicides, abusive relationships, etc. The book can help shine a light on several topics: domestic abuse, child abuse, relationship issues, and insecurity.


How have you grown as a writer from THE OTHER SIDE OF THROUGH to JEALOUSY?
As a writer, it is my goal to continuously improve. However, I am really driven to bring to light issues in our communities. It is my desire to not only highlight those issues, but also try to trigger conversation about the cause and effect of what we do while challenged with these issues.
Although I write about more real life drama in Jealousy, I researched this emotion and its volatility thoroughly and really focused on incorporating how much of a “hot button” it can be. Rochelle’s character is a result of this research mixed with a little fact, fiction and real-life drama.


Click cover to order your copy of JEALOUSY today!


What are THREE adjectives that best describe JEALOUSY?
Entertaining, Powerful, Suggestive


What are THREE adjectives that best describe YOU?
Loving, Loyal, God-Chaser


Marsha Jenkins-Sanders: THE SOUNDTRACK! What TWO tracks would make it onto a soundtrack of your life, and why?
Never would have made it…Marvin Sapp, The Battle is not yours…Yolanda Adams! My life has been a roller coaster ride and my faith has been tested. God has seen me through many battles and brought me out of the “fiery furnace” unscathed. I am a better person because of these challenges, but never would have made it without HIS guidance, mercy, grace and love.


What are TWO things you have done - as author - to promote JEALOUSY?
I always do “Author Talk’s” to promote my books and I am currently on tour doing signings, interviews, book events, etc.


You're going on vacation, and you're only allowed to take ONE book with you -- what is it, and why that book?
My bible, it is a part of my daily lifestyle.


Who is ONE of your favorite writers, and how does he/she inspire you as a writer?
I really enjoy Terry McMillan. Her “voice” is so familiar and my life’s circumstances can relate.


Dream-on: You've just been told that someone wants to turn JEALOUSY into a movie. Who would play Dakota North and Rochelle Jackson?
My dreams are becoming my reality. The Other Side of Through is becoming a movie. There is a request to do the same with JEALOUSY; however, I want the sequel out first. For Jealousy, as with The Other Side of Through, I would pick Melinda Williams (Cosmetologist- Tracie Bird Van Adams on Soul Food), or Sanaa Lathan, or someone equally gifted and classy to play Dakota. Rochelle’s character could be Ms. Jay from America’s Next Top Model.


What's currently going on in your WRITING LIFE?
I am working on the movie of The Other Side of Through with my partner, Terry Coffey. Currently finishing two sequels, God’s Loudest Whisper (Jealousy- A Strange Company Keeper) and Set Adrift on a Memory (The Other Side of Through). My focus will then turn to writing books for African American teenagers with a positive message to offer them reading options other than Street Lit, Erotica, Harry Potter, and Vampires.

BOOK TRAILER: Ain't Understandin' Mellow by Michelle Davis

Welcome to Urban Christian author Brittney Holmes

Brittney Holmes is a recent graduate from Redan High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia, where her outstanding GPA earned her the title of Salutatorian of her senior class. For her outstanding academic and extracurricular status, she is recognized in Who’s Who Among High School Students. A gifted journalist, Brittney is a youth contributing writer for Global Woman magazine. Published through Urban Books (Urban Christian imprint), her debut novel, Living Consequences gained recognition from the African American Literary Awards Show where she received the 2007 Open Book Award for Best Young Adult Fiction of the Year. Her second novel, Testing Relationships, was released in June 2008. In addition to reading and writing novels, Brittney has also authored several poems addressing the subjects of Christianity, peer pressure, and social issues. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, singing, dancing, listening to music, shopping, and spending time with her family and friends. In the fall of 2008, Brittney will enroll as a full-time student at the University of Georgia in Athens, where she plans to major in journalism. Brittney currently resides in Stone Mountain, Georgia, with her parents, Jonathan Bellamy and Kendra Norman-Bellamy and her younger sister, Crystal.

Learn MORE about Brittney and her endeavors by checking out her official website and through MySpace!




Fill in the blank: "Reading TESTING RELATIONSHIPS will cause you to laugh, cry, and even get angry, but it will also teach you what it means to put your complete faith and trust in God."


I know that TESTING RELATIONSHIPS is the sequel to your debut novel, LIVING CONSEQUENCES. Did you always plan to write a sequel, or did the characters of LIVING CONSEQUENCES stick with you?
I fell in love with the characters from Living Consequences and couldn’t get them out off of my mind once I finished the book. It was almost an involuntary decision when I began writing the sequel Testing Relationships. Like most readers when they finished reading my first book, I wanted to know what was going to happen with Nevaeh, Ronald, Sierra, Marques, and Shimone after they’d received salvation. Would things be peachy keen, or would they continue to live life as they had been before they made the spiritual change? I realized in writing the sequel that neither would occur and that, like most new Christians, these characters would experience hardships in dealing with their faith. I wanted to illustrate those hardships within Testing Relationships.


What's your favorite thing about TESTING RELATIONSHIPS?
I would have to say that my favorite thing about Testing Relationships is that the characters are as real as you or me. The situations they allow themselves to get into, the way they decide to handle them, the decisions their faced with making, and the lives that they lead are mirror images of someone in the real world. So the story, though labeled fiction, is truly real.


Click the cover above to order TESTING RELATIONSHIPS today!


What are three adjectives that best describe TESTING RELATIONSHIPS?
Testing Relationships is dramatic, exciting, and empathetic.


What are three adjectives that best describe YOU?
I am intelligent, goal-oriented, and blessed.


What have you done or what do you plan to do - as author - to promote TESTING RELATIONSHIPS?
Promoting my work is probably the hardest thing about being an author, but I do my best to do what it takes in order to promote Testing Relationships. Since its release, I’ve traveled the country to meet with book clubs, posted updates concerning my writings online, and passed around my online interviews so that my family, friends, and colleagues are able to remain informed about my work. I plan to continue to promote myself and my writings by attending any events that will provide networking opportunities.


You wrote LIVING CONSEQUENCES at the age of 16; what propelled you at this young age to write a novel?
Actually, I wrote Living Consequences when I was 14 and a freshman in high school. The book was actually published when I was 16. I was divinely inspired to write the book because before I physically sat down before my computer and began typing, I had no preconceived idea to write a book. I had planned on writing a journal for my own personal use and the story turned into something I had no intentions of creating. It was apparent that God had placed the story of Living Consequences in me so that I can share it and its message with the world.


What was life like being a published author and a teenager with the normal teenager activities and life?
The only difference between me, being a published author, and me, before becoming a published author, is that I get to travel around to various places and events, promoting my books and meeting people I’d never even thought of meeting before. This career had definitely made my life a little more exciting and fun…and busy! I love the career, but I also love being able to do normal teenage activities and sometimes the two may clash. I have to do a lot of picking and choosing when it comes to hanging out with friends or going to a fellow author’s literary event that could open up closed doors. It can get intimidating, but I know that this is something God placed in me to do and it’s something I love.


Was it always part of the plan to integrate Christian living into the novel?
Yes, it was always a part of the plan to integrate Christian living into my novels because my spirituality is a part of me. I feel that since God was gracious enough to bless me with the gift and the opportunity to be able to influence many, I’d use it to glorify and bless Him. I write from my experiences and from the experiences of those around me and try to show readers how they can conquer life by using simple faith-based tactics.


Both LIVING CONSEQUENCES and TESTING RELATIONSHIPS are strong works of Christian fiction; do you believe that you'll continue writing works that are reflective of the Christian faith?
Yes, all of the novels I will write will continue to reflect the Christian faith. Because I was raised on Christian morals and values, my writing reflects what I know. All of my books deal with realistic issues that teens and young adults face in today’s society, but the lessons learned are faith-based. And according to feedback from my readers, my novels, regardless of the spiritual connection, are easy to connect with and have shown them that regardless of what they may be going through, they are never alone. Since I know this works and I’m transferring God’s messages to the world, I’ll continue to use Him as my clutch when writing.


Inside your MP3 PLAYER: What three tracks MUST you listen to these days?
Just three? Okay…I would definitely have to say Keyshia Cole’s Heaven Sent is a must! Also, Alicia Keys’s Teenage Love Affair and one of my favorite songs, Love Him Like I Do by Deitrick Haddon featuring Ruben Studdard and Mary Mary.


Brittney Holmes: THE SOUNDTRACK! What three tracks would make it onto a soundtrack of your life, and why?
Never Would Have Made It by Marvin Sapp would definitely make it onto the soundtrack because without God, I wouldn’t be here nor would I be able to get through any of life’s obstacles. Fantasia’s I Believe would also make the cut because it talks about reaching your highest potential and believing in what you can become. And finally, just because it’s my favorite song in the whole world, Ribbon in the Sky by Stevie Wonder would probably be on the soundtrack to illustrate my relationship with whatever man God has created for me.


Who are some of your favorite writers, and how do they inspire you as a writer?
Of course, Kendra Norman-Bellamy, my mother, is one of my favorite writers. She inspires me the most because she took her lifelong passion and favorite pastime and made it into a career that has been more successful than most because she decided to put her faith in God and do what He has called her to do. Victoria Christopher Murray is also a favorite of mine because she is a phenomenal writer and doesn’t mind taking risks in creating her stories and she has taught me that there’s nothing wrong with me doing the same. Jacqueline Thomas and Tia McCollors are also authors who create realistic stories that inspire me to tap deeper into my own creativity when writing.


Dream-on: You've just been told that someone wants to turn TESTING RELATIONSHIPS into a movie. Who would play Shimone, Marques, Nevaeh, Ronald, Imani, and Sierra?
Wow! If only I could get a call from someone who would like to turn my novels into a movie, I’d definitely have a line up for them. Raven Symoné would be an almost perfect match for Shimone; the multi-talented Columbus Short could play Marques; Joy Bryant would be a good candidate to play Nevaeh; Ronald would be played by the handsome Derek Luke; Imani could be played by Keke Palmer; and Meagan Good would best portray Sierra.


What's currently going on in your WRITING LIFE?
As of right now, I’m trying to finish a manuscript that I’ve been working on for the past year. I’m not sure if it’s flowing how I want it to, so I may stop where I’m am in writing it and start all over from chapter one. However, I just submitted my third novel, “Grace and Mercy,” to my publishers and if things go well, it will be released in the coming year or so.

August 1st Marks Premiere of All the Blog's a Page!

For our first month of writer discussions on AtBaP, we are looking at FAITH and how writers connect their faith to writing.

Participating authors are

Friday, August 1, 2008 -- Beth Fehlbaum: MySpace

Friday, August 8, 2008 -- Niambi Davis: MySpace

Monday, August 11, 2008 -- Pamela S. Thibodeaux: MySpace

Friday, August 15, 2008 -- Faith Inspired Books: MySpace

Friday, August 22, 2008 -- James A. Jimason: MySpace

Friday, August 29, 2008 -- Cynthia Polansky: MySpace

Just from reading the early submissions from the authors, I can tell you that they are ALL taking it seriously, and you'll be in for some great responses, so head over to AtBaP TODAY and subscribe to the blog!

In Touch with Urban Christian Author Sharon Oliver

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Sharon Oliver is a resident of the Atlanta area. She is also a contributing writer for an online magazine and currently working on her third novel, a murder mystery.

To learn more about Sharon and her literary works, you can check out her WEBSITE!

Fill in the blank: "Reading KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER will make you laugh, think and last but not least, honor God. Hopefully, the reader(s) will recognize God’s grace in the book as well as in their own lives."


In screenwriting, a logline is a one-sentence summary of a script. Typically, a logline does three things: tells who the main character is and what he/she wants, tells who or what stands in his/her way, and tells what makes the story unique. Having said that, imagine the poster for KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER: THE MOVIE. What would its logline read?
A weary young divorcee sojourns in the deep south to rest and regroup only to find big city drama in a not-so sleepy small town.


What's your favorite thing about KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER?
The humor even when intertwined in a serious message.


What have you done or what do you plan to do - as author - to promote KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER?
I’ve scheduled book signings, advertised in magazines, mailed and passed out brochures, sent email blasts and participated in online interviews.


Why do you feel compelled to write fiction that integrates Christian values?
A fellow Urban Christian author summed up Christian fiction and there is one key point I’d like to borrow from her to answer that question. That is, it is a ministry I feel God has given me a heart for. I don’t have a desire to write erotica, horror, etc. So far, I’ve not been given any ideas for writing romance either and romance novels are the norm these days. I’ve always enjoyed mystery/suspense books as well as humorous novels. With that said, I’d like to reach that like-minded audience and add Jesus to the mix. Nothing too heavy, but enlightening, creating and/or keeping a thirst for God.


Do you see yourself integrating Christian values into future works?
Definitely.


INSIDE YOUR MP3 PLAYER: What three tracks MUST you listen to these days?
Chris Tomlin’s HOW GREAT IS OUR GOD, Israel Houghton’s ALPHA & OMEGA, and whatever the day’s mood calls for.


Sharon Oliver: THE SOUNDTRACK! What three tracks would make it onto a soundtrack of your life, and why?
FENCEWALK, by a 70’s group named Mandrill just for the old school jam; Richard Smallwood’s, ANTHEM OF PRAISE for the uplifting and setting the tone and Marvin Sapp’s, NEVER WOULD HAVE MADE IT because…I mean, come on.


Who are some of your favorite writers, and how do they inspire you as a writer?
Agatha Christie, Walter Mosley and Elaine Viets. Agatha’s fictions are just classics. This brilliant creator of methodical sleuths introduced us to a host of suspects, dreamy locales and crafty villains. Walter Mosley’s Easy Rawlins series are film noirs in print. I grew up watching black and white movies and still enjoy a good AMC or Turner Classic film. Mosley gives it to you with an African American as the major player. Elaine Viets’ books keep me in stitches while trying to figure out whodunit. She’s excellent at creating comical lines and conversations between the characters.


Click the cover above to order your copy of KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER Today!



What have you learned as a writer since the publication of KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER?
Whew! Where do I start? Actually, I’m still learning. One thing for sure, you can never have enough pair of eyes for editing. Connecting with others in the field is important. Be patient and have perseverance because God can sure make those crooked paths straight.


Dream-on: You've just been told that someone wants to turn KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER into a movie. Who would play Charlotte Morley and Reverend Holiday?
Nia Long as Charlotte and Anthony Anderson as Reverend Holiday. Might I add that Tasha Smith would be perfect for the part of Timmi and donning a wig and makeup to look aged, the effervescent Jennifer Lewis as Miss Sista.


What's currently going on in your WRITING LIFE?
Right now, I’m working on a 3rd novel, which happens to be a murder mystery and yes, it is still Christian fiction. I’m also branching out as a contributing writer for a couple of online magazines.


Word Association. What comes to mind when you see the following words:
ENEMIES: defeated
WRITING: evolving
KEEP YOUR ENEMIES CLOSER: if you know what I know you, you will (Oops, that’s 9 words. Sorry)
FAITH: necessary
SHARON OLIVER: growing

Summer 2008 Issue of The Nubian Chronicles is LIVE!

Author interviews, great poetry, engaging stories and essays, and more await you in the Summer 2008 Issue of The Nubian Chronicles, and it all starts (HERE)!

Check out the latest issue! You won't be disappointed!

Summer Issue of SisterDivas Magazine is Live!

HEAD OVER to SisterDivas Magazine and check out the great articles and interviews and episodes (of Love Bytes) in the Summer 2008 Issue. We have articles on relationships, health, self-love - see what our summer BUZZWORTHY movies, TV shows, books, and music are!

It all starts right (here)!

Join Me @ BlogginginBlack.com Today!

Over @ Blogging in Black, where I have a monthly column, I share my ROMANCE with writing.  Please take the time to head there, read it, and leave comments about your own love affair with the WORD and with writing!

Here's the (link)!

Why Choose Editorial Services through ChickLitGurrl™?

Why Choose Editorial Services through ChickLitGurrl™?

Here are a few reasons why people love Shon's editorial services - to include her Writer's Boot Camp!


Shon's writing boot camp is probably one of the most helpful writing exercises that there is for aspiring writers - Ozakie Knotts
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I have had the pleasure of working with Shonell on numerous projects that have paid off with huge dividends. Her approach, eye for detail, and professionalism have landed me an agent, and my novels have caught the eye of a mainstream publisher. Also working with her, I have won several writing awards. Her editing is second to none. I enjoy working with her. I look forward to working with her in the future, and I gladly recommend her services.

Sammie Ward
Author/Founder of Lady Leo Publishing
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I met Shon through MySpace, and I have to say that now I am a true believer of Divine Intervention. Working with Shon has been one of the greatest blessings in my writing career; she is direct, inquisitive, and genuinely interested in your story. She asks questions about the direction the story is going (often they are things I didn’t even think about and if she hadn’t asked certain things in my story, they would’ve gone unanswered). Since working with her, my latest manuscript got picked up by a publisher after one month of sending out query letters. She is affordable and incredibly fast; I’ve never known an editor that works as fast as Shon does. Honestly, I can go on and on about how amazing Shon is, but you’ll just have to try her services out for yourself.

Liz DeJesus, Author and Poet
Under the Moonlight will be published through Cacoethes Publishing under the pen name Isabelle Rose
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Shon Bacon edited my novel, Project Queen. After applying her changes and suggestions, I was able to gain a new publisher. Once again, Shon seemed to have sensed my writing style/personality very keenly and maintained the integrity of that style during editing. This definitely sets her apart from all the rest!

T. D. Patterson, author of Project Queen
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I hired Shonell Bacon to proofread my debut novel, Strawberry Mansion: A Philadelphia Story, and the care, skill, and professionalism she applied to my manuscript really made it shine! Shonell is an asset to every aspiring author’s arsenal!

~Julia Press Simmons~
~Queen Midas Books~
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Shon Bacon edited the manuscript of my first novel. She corrected many areas including verb tenses, spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors. As a result, the story is a much “smoother” read.

Shon also made personal notes as she edited the script. She questioned certain areas where she felt improvements to the story could be made. I agreed with all of her recommendations.

Shon used the “track changes” feature on Microsoft Word so I could easily see the corrections she made, and I could also accept or reject each change. This made it very easy for me to review.

In summary, I recommend Shon Bacon for all editing, and I intend on hiring her to edit my second novel.

Please visit my website or MySpace page noted below should you wish to see Shon’s work. The first few chapters of my novel The Back of My Mind are listed on both sites.

Steven Payette
Website: www.geocities.com/samuelstrevor/index
MySpace: www.myspace.com/trevorsamuels
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Shon Bacon’s uncanny ability to integrate mastery of the English language with supreme innateness in identifying artistic literacy is unparalleled in the editing industry. She is the epitome of ‘perfect balance’ with regards to being a grammatical sharp shooter and connoisseur of creative wordsmithing. ‘Ultimate satisfaction’ is the most common phrase utilized when describing Shon’s work

Marc Lacy, The Looking Heart and Rock & Fire

Check out information about CLG's editorial services and Writers Boot Camp today! Here's the (LINK)!

Getting to Know Urban Christian Author Shana Burton

Fill in the blank: "Reading SUDDENLY SINGLE will make you laugh, cry, and reassure you that the Lord works in his own time to make things happen."


You have 25 words to make readers RACE out to buy SUDDENLY SINGLE...GO!
If you've ever been heart-broken or want an honest take on being single and saved in a secular society, read this book!


What's your favorite thing about SUDDENLY SINGLE?
I love my two main female characters. Vashti (bless her heart) really makes me feel good about my failed relationships because I know that my love life will never be as tragic as hers. I love reading about characters that I don't have to be jealous of. Monique is great, too. She was really fun to create because she says whatever she feels and has some of the best lines in the book. She is definitely a scene stealer!


What are three adjectives that best describe SUDDENLY SINGLE?
Fun, real, uplifting


What are three adjectives that best describe YOU?
Curious (some would call it nosey), creative, and sensitive


What have you done or what do you plan to do - as author - to promote SUDDENLY SINGLE?
I've pimped myself in every way possible. I've done radio interviews, TV, blogs, e-blasts, postcards, newspaper articles, websites, book club meetings, writing workshops, church conferences. You name it and I've probably done it-- twice!!


Shana Burton: THE SOUNDTRACK! What three tracks would make it onto a soundtrack of your life, and why?
My Life (Mary J. Blige) because you have to really look into my life and see everything I've been through and have had to overcome to truly understand me. I think that's true of everyone. Yesterday (Mary Mary) because I am making a conscious effort to let things roll off of me and to put my trust in the Lord. Just Fine (Mary again) because my life is not perfect, but I'm in a great place mentally, spiritually, financially, and everywhere else.


You're going on vacation, and you're only allowed to take three books with you -- what are they?
The Bible, Their Eyes Were Watching God, Native Son


What makes SUDDENLY SINGLE fit into the Christian genre mold?
While Vashti spends most of the book making mistakes, by the end, she has grown spiritually and is well on her way in her Christian walk. By definition, to be considered Christian fiction, the book has to reflect Christian values and the lead character(s) has to be spritually mature (or have shown significant growth) by the end of the book, but that's it. The church doesn't have to be the dominant setting, nor does the plotline have to revolve around church.


Will future books reflect Christian values as well?
Yes, they all will. I'm a Christian, so it naturally comes out in my writing, but I'm also a realist. My characters will never be perfect Christians who always make the right choices. That's neither realistic nor interesting to read.

Click the cover to purchase YOUR copy of SUDDENLY SINGLE today!

The main character of SUDDENLY SINGLE, 26-year-old Vashti Hunter is left at the altar and vows to be married within a year. Why do you think women - from young to old - still feel this incompleteness about themselves that only marriage can provide? Or do you think they do?
I think a lot of them do for various reasons. When I was single, I had a son, so I didn't want to be out dating a plethora of guys. I wanted stability for myself and my son, and marriage gave me that. Being the type of person that I am, I don't think I would've felt complete without a family. By the same token, I also have friends who are looking for "financial completeness" and having two incomes provide that. Some want social status, and some are just tired of being alone. Then, of course, there are those who feel "complete" as they are and just see marriage as the icing.


You're a career woman, a novelist, a wife, and a mother: how do you find the time to write?
I make the time. I keep a notebook with me so whenever I have any down time (i.e waiting in line, sitting in traffic), I write. Then there are those times when I have to look the door and kick everybody out for a few days or a few hours because I have a deadline to meet.


Who are some of your favorite writers, and how do they inspire you as a writer?
Zora Neale Hurston is my ultimate favorite. Her writing style and colorful diction is some of the best I've ever read. I love Toni Morrison's style, too. I'm also a big Richard Wright fan. Of course, I do love more contemporary writers as well-- Mary Monroe, Victoria Christopher Murray, Eric Jerome Dickey, Tina Ansa, and Terry McMillian all immediately come to mind, too.


What is one big thing you've learned about the industry since you've been published?
That's it a business first and foremost. While it may be a calling a passion for me, the publishing world couldn't care less about that. They are interested in the bottomline, which is sales.


Dream-on: You've just been told that someone wants to turn SUDDENLY SINGLE into a movie. Who would play Vashti Hunter?
Megan Goode or Lauren London. They are both beautiful, young talented actresses who have the range to pull it off.


What's currently going on in your WRITING LIFE?
I am finishing my third book, which is actually five stories in one surrounding a group of friends and their drama. I don't really have a title for it yet, though. I was thinking about calling it "Bag Ladies" because the ladies have so much emotional baggage and they bond through shopping. The downside to that title is having to explain what it means. I'm also toying with Flaws and All as a potential title.



Want to learn more about Shana and SUDDENLY SINGLE? Then check Shana out at her website!

The Things You Carried - A Prayerful Musing

You carried many things – some good and some bad; however, what hunched your shoulders, what sprouted sweat upon your brow, what grew a heart heavy, what made a spirit falter, what made faith dissipate, what made believing unimaginable were your burdens.


You carried

Lack of Money
Hunger
Thirst
Depression
Desperation
Heartache
Lies
Betrayals
Two-faced Friends
Backstabbing Co-workers
Familial Strife
Abuse
Disease
Discrimination
Distrust
Dysfunction
Deaths
Missed Opportunities
Societal Norms
Body Image Issues
Loneliness
Blame
Resentment
Jealousy
Anger
Fear of Any and Everything
Worry about the
Past
Present
Future


As the first burden takes shape, falls upon your back, and becomes a part of you; the tiniest of cracks forms. Invisible to the naked eye, invisible to all but two: God and the Devil.

God, the knower of all things, He who can do all things, watches, standing beside you, never leaving you, trying desperately to get you to believe, to remember that He never gives you more than you can bear.

But you can't hear. That crack, that tiniest of slits upon your psyche is just big enough for the Devil to niggle his way in, to whisper in your ear, onto your mind, into your heart your worthlessness. He tells you, "Yes, you deserve heartache. Yes, your fears are valid. Yes, you will die from cancer. Yes, that person is better than you because you're poor. Yes, you're fat and no one will love you. Yes, feed off your jealousy and riddle your body with its murky green acid. Yes, your man hits you, but don't you think you deserved it? Yes, you're without money and you will always – forever and a day – worry about having shelter and food. Yes, you are nothing, and no good shall ever come upon you."

And you listen. And you believe. And you allow every negative word to feast upon you until you're so desolate, so empty, so without that you become like a cracked shell upon a beach – discarded and abandoned.

As that last burden, that last straw falls upon your back, breaking it, you isolate yourself. No one would ever understand what you're going through. You have to be the only person on earth going through so much pain. You don't want to lay your burdens upon others. You don't want anyone to see you cry.

And when you are alone, in that quiet space that frightens you, you hear him – the Devil – whispering his ugly words, his death breath brushing across your cheeks.

Others try to talk to you. Friends try to get you to go out. Mother calls, asking, "Baby, are you okay? I'm worried about you. So is Dad." And you try to smile, but the face distorts as abstract as a Picasso painting.

At the moment in which your back does break, you fall upon your knees and cry like a baby fresh from its mother's womb, but it is you who are giving birth.

You've carried, for so long, your burdens – feeding them the right negative nutrients, nurturing them into angry growth – and as the water breaks from you, you cry to God to help you deal with the painful birth.

He smiles. He's been waiting, lovingly waiting to hear His name, to feel your connection, and He whispers into your spirit, "Come to me, you who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light" (Matt 11:28-30).
You push. You breathe. You scream. You grunt. You bleed. You battle with the burden that has been a part of you for so long, it wishes not to depart.

But it does, when you scream with the voices of a thousand lost souls and allow your burden to rip itself from you and fall upon the ground – red and ugly as sin.

No nurses rush to its aid. No one tries to resuscitate it, for your burdens have now been laid.

Your breathing slows. Your weeping grows, but not of pain – of joy of the living water that pours from your eyes and caresses your cheeks as it takes its journey to your chin and falls away.

In the warm, glowing silence of after birth, you scream like a baby reaching deep into its lungs for its first breath.

And you are born anew.

I will be doing more pieces like this at my new MySpace page - Sisters of the WORD. SOTW is for ALL women - no matter the nationality - who have faith and who have power of the WORD (God's and her OWN) to express the many facets of womanhood. Please join!

UNDER THE MISTLETOE - short story - NOW AVAILABLE!

UNDER THE MISTLETOE – DATE OF PUBLICATION: JULY 2008(Romantic Drama)

Publicist Lita Gregory has been running. Four years ago, she ran away from Eric Thomas, the love of her life, when she caught him in bed with another woman. Because of him, she left for New York and barely made trips back to her hometown in Georgia. A year ago, her beloved father passed, once again, prompting Lita to run from the pain in heart, the pain that told her that there was no longer a man on the planet that loved her. When Lita heads home for Christmas, she learns that some things changed while others remained the same: her mother has a new man in her life, and Eric is still around, wanting an explanation as to why Lita left him years ago. During her stay, Lita must confront her past, deal with her mother’s new love, and decide if her future is in New York – single, or in Georgia with Eric.

EXCERPT

“Baby,” Lily Mae began, taking Lita’s hand and guiding her to the couch to sit down, “you remember when I told you how I had a friend?”

Lita closed her eyes for a brief moment. “Uh, yeah...barely. You didn’t tell me much.”

“Well, this is my friend, baby. Actually, more like my fiancé. He lives here now.” It was almost like Lita had been slapped across the face.

“Fiancé?” she asked, her voice strained.

“Yeah.” Lily Mae raised her left hand as Lita’s gaze fell upon a perfect two-carat marquise cut engagement ring.

“Wow!” was all that Lita could muster. Before she could say another word, tears slipped from her eyes.

Lily Mae reached for her. “Baby, don’t cry. I should have...”

“Mom, what about Daddy?” Lita questioned in an almost hysterical voice. “You forgot about him that fast?”

Lily Mae reached out to touch Lita, but she pulled away.

“No...no.” Lita jumped up and quickly walked out the front door.

She motioned herself down onto the porch swing and hugged her coat tightly around her. She didn’t want to be overly dramatic in there, but she felt as if her mother had totally done wrong by her father. Lita’s father, John, had passed away a little over a year ago from a heart attack. It had happened suddenly, taking him away at the young age of 49. Lily Mae was a widow at 45, and at the time, it had felt like life would just cease to exist.

For weeks, months, hell, even now, Lita went days at a time without eating, just crying and blubbering like her whole being had been stripped from her. Lita had a perfect home, with two people who loved each other more and more with each passing day. They made each other happy, and as a result, their love was that much more powerful toward Lita. She was blessed to have the love of her parents for 26 years. But she hated that the blessing was just ripped from her without warning. She had been struggling to go on, and it had appeared that her mother made that transition rather smoothly. She was shacking up—in her father’s home no less—with her soon-to-be husband while Lita cried and tried to pick up the pieces of her frail life.

“Are you okay?”

Lita slowly raised her eyes to meet up with the voice, but it was no need. Even after four years, she recognized it. All the praying she had done to have a peaceful trip with her mother was slowly being taken away from her. First, she was hit with her mother’s happy future, and now, she was being slapped by her painful past.

Lita’s eyes held contempt as she stared at the extraordinarily handsome creature before her. Even she had to admit that four years made Eric Thomas more sexy, appealing, and alluring.

She quickly put that attraction in check.

“I’m fine,” she answered, shortly. “What are you doing here?” Lita eyed Eric—his chocolate fine self encased in a pair of blue jeans and Timberlands, with a thick flannel jacket over a long-sleeved T-shirt. He sauntered up the steps and slowly took a seat beside her.

“What are you doing here?”

“Are you serious?” Lita asked, incredulously. “My mother lives here. It’s Christmas. What do you think?”

“Figured you would stay up in New York and spend the holidays with all of your friends.”

Lita’s emotions toward Eric are as cold as the frigid winter, and Eric doesn’t seem too happy with Lita, either. Will holiday cheer and a walk down memory lane warm Lita to Eric, the one man she has ever loved?

Pick up a copy of UNDER THE MISTLETOE – it’s only $1.95 – and enjoy it in between all those boring tasks of the day; let it be your sweet pleasure.

The e-story can be purchased via (Lady Leo Publishing)!

Once you read it, come check me out, and let me know what you think! I’ll post your comments!

GOT TIL IT'S GONE - the short story - is AVAILABLE!

GOT TIL IT’S GONE – DATE OF PUBLICATION: JULY 2008
(Women’s Fiction/Romance)

Rochelle is a beautiful sistah with a lot going for her: a great job, great family, great friends, and Will, her boyfriend that she adores more than anything. The problem? Lately, Will has been distant, spending more time at work and with his female friends’ problems than with her. When Will breaks one too many promises, Rochelle tells him off, goes to the club with her girlfriends, and attempts to forget her troubles with good friends, food, and dancing. When Will shows up while Rochelle’s in the arms of another man, the pair gets ready for their ultimate showdown. Will Rochelle be the victor in love? Or will Will learn that he doesn’t know what he Got Til It’s Gone?

EXCERPT

Rochelle turned back to the mirror. She couldn’t even remember what possessed her to cut off all her hair and get twisties. But a month ago, she went to her favorite beauty shop, From Naps 2 Glory, and told them to chop it...chop it down to two inches at the most...and twist it. Ever since, she had been sporting her new look, and much to her surprise, the men were still trying to get to her. With her short, funky ‘do, her caramel-kissed skin, 5’6” slim figure, perky breasts, sistah booty, runner’s calves, and her sweet disposition, it wasn’t hard to figure out why the men kept trying to get her number

But she wasn’t interested in MEN...just Will. Will Jones. She had been dating that gorgeous piece of man for almost a year now, and was ready for the big C...and men know what that is ‘cause they go running every time they hear it. Will appeared to be the type of man sistahs complained were in short supply. He was good-looking, with his honey complexion, big brown eyes, and a smile that could light a thousand dark nights. He had a good job, loved his mother, and all his friends—mostly women, much to Rochelle’s chagrin—thought he was just the living end.

Rochelle was definitely thanking her lucky stars for meeting Will at the library of all places. They were both trying to reach for the last copy of Eric Jerome Dickey’s latest book, and Will, being the gentleman, let Rochelle take it. Since then, they had been each other’s constant companion, going to movies, restaurants, clubs, sitting at home watching videos, cooking dinner for each other—everything that couples did.

Recently, however, Will hadn’t been around. Almost a month to the day it had been since Rochelle had a decent amount of “couple” time with Will. Coincidently, that was about the time she chopped off her hair. Sure, Will’s excuses could be legit; after all, his job was becoming more demanding, and he had personal issues to deal with, but Rochelle’s thought always came back to, “What’s that gotta do with me?”

Rochelle snapped from her thoughts when Monica snuck up behind her and wrapped her arms around Rochelle’s waist. She smiled. She, Monica, and Audrey had been friends since the womb, having been born only about a week apart from one another. To look at them, you would have sworn they were triplets. They all had the same traits, minus Monica’s more voluptuous figure, and Audrey’s more diminutive figure, which placed Rochelle right between them figure wise, and oddly enough, personality wise, too. She wasn’t flamboyant like Monica or as quiet as Audrey.

“If it’s the last thing I do tonight,” Monica said, “I’m going to hook you up with a dude.”

“I already have a dude, thank you very much,” Rochelle said, slipping from Monica’s embrace and dropping down onto her queen-sized bed, beside Audrey. “His name is Will.”

“And where is he?” Monica asked. “I mean for real, girl. If my man had been giving me the cold shoulder for a month, he would be getting the cold shaft indefinitely.”

“It has been ridiculous, Ro.” Audrey sighed. “So, what was his excuse this time for not coming to the club with us?”

“He didn’t give one because he’s still coming.”

Monica laughed. “Girl, in about two seconds he’s going to be calling here, telling you another sob story...just watch.”

As if Monica had it timed, the phone rang.

“Watch” is all she said.

Rochelle stilled her anxiety long enough to reach over to her nightstand and pick up the cordless phone.

“Hello?” she answered.

“Hey, it’s me.” It was Will. Just the sound of his voice alerted Rochelle that he wasn’t coming, and instantly her defenses came up, irritation etched all over her face.

It’s obvious Will’s in the doghouse, but will Rochelle leave him there, or will the pair finally get down to the heart of the matter and strengthen their relationship?

Pick up a copy of GOT TIL IT’S GONE today – it’s only $1.95 – and enjoy it as a guilty lunchtime pleasure.

The e-story can be purchased via (Lady Leo Publishing)!

Once you read it, come check me out, and let me know what you think! I’ll post your comments!

Purchase the short story CONNECTIONS today!

CONNECTIONS – DATE OF PUBLICATION: JULY 2008(Romantic Comedy)

Connections is a romantic comedy that’s perfect for today’s world where love is often found in Cyberspace.

Monday through Friday, for one hour a day, newspaper reporter Christianna Dayne’s life is wonderful. Despite her hectic life, she always manages to spend her lunch hour at Cyber Town where she can catch up with her best friend Samantha, grab a bite to eat, and most importantly, hook up with her cyber boo online. Christianna is definitely feeling LitGuy66, but she’s too afraid to meet him because she doesn’t want reality to come crashing down around her. What Christianna doesn’t know is she’s not in control; fate is, and when fate puts a flesh and blood man before her – a man who just happens to not only be her possible Mr. Wonderful but also her ultimate scoop – Christianna must decide whether to flee or stick around and pursue the endless possibilities.

EXCERPT

I smiled when I noticed my girlfriend, Samantha, working. I waved, skipping over to her.

“You’re awfully giddy today,” she said as she handed a customer his change.

Approaching the counter, I leaned over, widening my smile.

“Actually, no,” I replied. “I’m tired, pissed, and cold as hell, but you know I couldn’t miss my lunch date.”

“What did Dave do this time?”

Samantha and I laughed. Dave was brothers with Samantha’s stepfather, so she knew all the dirt on him—even what wasn’t fit to print.

“Sam, he has me doing yet another mission impossible which means I won’t be able to hang with you this week.”

Sam’s icy blue eyes widened before she slapped the counter and chuckled. “Um, excuse me,” she said in her hard born-in-New-York accent, which so contrasted with her epitome-of-American-beauty blond hair, blue eyes, and model figure. “When was the last time we went out? You never go out.” She wiped the counter and nodded, her long blond hair dipping over her shoulders.

“Which explains why you haven’t dated in how long?”

I raised my eyebrow. “Sam, I didn’t come here to be reprimanded for being a spinster.” I sighed. “Besides, dear old Mom already beat you to this convo over the weekend.”

Sam reached across the counter and patted my hand.

“I’m sorry, chica,” she said. She brightened and added, “But you do have your date today.

How long has this been going on, two months now, right?”

I broke into a jaw-hurting smile. “Yeah,” I said as if shy.

“Why don’t you two just get over it and meet? It’s not like it’s a crime to meet someone on the Internet these days or anything.”

I pushed my thick, wiry hair back from off my face and blew into my hands. “I never really thought about it. I mean, he sounds too good to be true, and this one hour of my day makes me so happy. I would hate us to meet and negative vibes pop off. Then, I wouldn’t have this…” I lifted my arms and spun in a circle before I pointed to my favorite spot in the café.

Sam’s eyes moved toward my PC in the corner and then back to me. “Chris, you need to stop playing what if. I mean this could be the guy for you.”

“What’s gotten into you, Sam?” I asked, laughing. “You’re hardly the advocate for Internet romance. I often wonder why you even work here because I can bet you that a lot of these people come here to talk to people they are interested in romantically.”

“I guess I just see you in here, every Monday through Friday, talking for your hour, and floating out of the door because you’re so happy. Maybe I’d like to see you happy for more than one hour a day, five days a week.”

I smiled at my girl, taking her hands in mine and giving them a squeeze. I glanced at the contrast of our hands—hers being alabaster and mine the color of cinnamon. I chuckled, thinking of how people often looked at our color; raised brows at our loud, usually not politically correct discussions; and refused to see that we were sisters beyond our hues. Since we hooked up and lucked out as roommates our first year of college, Sam and I had been joined at the hip. Not even full-time jobs or the daily grind of life could keep us from staying connected.

“Thanks, Sis,” I said. “I know you’re just worried about my so-called love life. Not all of us can be graced to have a love like you and Jake.”

“True, but you know Jake and I have our problems…”

I gave Sam a serious look, before asking, “So how are things, between you, Jake, Jax, and Jamaica?”

“It’s going,” Sam said, sighing. “Jake and I can do nothing but continue loving each other and watching out for Jax. Jax is so young. I don’t want to hurt her with her mother’s crazy issues. If Jamaica is going to act up, then we’ll just have to deal with it then. She’s been okay since we talked to her, but you never know.”

I nodded. Our conversation was halted as a guy approached the counter. Wow, I thought, he’s cute. I knew Sam was thinking the same thing because she offered me a smirk before helping him.

“What can I do for you?” she asked.

“Uh, yeah,” he said, looking rushed, “can I get a cup of coffee and a turkey Swiss croissant?”

“Sure thing.”

“Ditto on that order, Sam, but make my coffee a caramel latte, please.” She nodded and turned away. I drummed my fingertips along the counter, catching glimpses of the guy out of the corner of my eye.

“Hi,” he said, catching me glancing. I turned toward him, a blush rising in my cheeks.

“Hi,” I replied, embarrassed. Now looking directly at him, I was like Elvis, all shook up.

He was gorgeous, in that artsy kind of way, and his Hispanic heritage just added to his machismo factor. He had the most beautiful pair of brown eyes—after my own—and a nice full mouth. He ran his hand over his slightly spiky brown hair and offered the other to me.



Want to know what happens to Christianna and her cyber boo? Pick up a copy of CONNECTIONS today – it’s only $1.95 – and enjoy it over a sweet latte.

The e-story can be purchased via (Lady Leo Publishing)!

Once you read it, come check me out, and let me know what you think! I’ll post your comments!

Steeple Hill Love Inspired Author: Margaret Daley

Margaret has been writing for over 20 years. She started writing in the late 1970s because she wanted to see if she could put a whole story down on paper. That book is still in the drawer and will never see the light of day. But she was able to finish a book, which was her goal.

Margaret Daley is an award winning author for Steeple Hill Love Inspired, inspirational romances. She has sold more than sixty books.

You have 50 words or less to make readers want to buy your latest novel: FAMILY EVER AFTER. Go!
Three foster kids turn Noah Maxwell’s life upside down. The successful businessman knew nothing about children, so he hired single mom Cara Winters to help care for his new brood. Cara sensed that despite Noah’s confident façade, old wounds troubled him. She wanted to help him heal, but would he accept her help?


What was the initial spark that brought FAMILY EVER AFTER into being?
It started with a concept I had for a series about foster children and parents. I taught school for twenty-seven years and saw many situations where children were hurting because of their home life. I wanted to explore various situations children find themselves in. The first book was out in 2007 called ONCE UPON A FAMILY and the second one was out in December 2007 called HEART OF THE FAMILY. The series centers around three foster brothers who remained close after they left their foster home. They start the Henderson Project to help foster children. The fourth book, SECOND CHANCE FAMILY, will be out in July 2009. This is Whitney’s story (Noah’s sister).


What's your favorite thing about FAMILY EVER AFTER?
How Cara sets out to help Noah and ends up being helped herself.


FAMILY EVER AFTER is published by Steeple Hill Love Inspired; why do you feel yourself drawn to writing inspirational stories?
It’s a natural for me. I have a strong faith, and I believe hope is paramount to us. Without hope, what do we really have? My faith gives me that hope. Also, I love exploring different aspects of human nature.


Other novels of yours are published through Love Inspired Suspense; how are you able to integrate the suspense genre into your inspirational stories?
Again, it’s a natural. I love to read romantic suspense and adventures. I love a good puzzle. What better place to have faith than in a story where you’re running for your life (or something similar). We tend to turn to our faith when our life gets tough.


Looking at your website, I noticed that in 2007, you published six books; how are you able to be so prolific, so dedicated in your writing?
I’m a workaholic and very organized. It took longer for two of the stories to be published than now because of the Love Inspired Suspense line opening and expanding. Normally I can write 4 books a year. Now that I’m retired from teaching (as of the end of December 2007), I might be able to step it up a little but not 6 books.


What have you done and what are you doing - as author - to help promote FAMILY EVER AFTER?
I have a web site I update monthly as well as a blog that is drawing some attention from readers. I love to interview different writers about their books. I have a drawing each week on my blog for my guest author’s book. I also participate in the Steeple Hill forums at eharlequin.com. I have spoken to several groups from a church to a writer’s conference.


Order your copy of FAMILY EVER AFTER today by clicking the above cover!


What are three adjectives that best describe FAMILY EVER AFTER?
Faith, friends, and family


What are three adjectives that best describe YOU?
Faith, friend, and family


Talk to us about your journey to publication. Was it a difficult one?
I had been writing a few years when I sold my first book in the early 1980s. I have had my ups and downs like most writers. I went through an eight-year dry period where I didn’t sell after having sold 20 books. I have my share of rejections.


How do you spend your time when you're not writing?
I spend my time with my family and friends. I also love to read when I get the chance and go to lunch and a good movie with friends.


Margaret Daley: THE SOUNDTRACK! What three soundtracks emulate your life, and why?
Honestly, I’m not sure. I think of the musical Camelot only because right at the moment, I would love for it only to rain at night (gently of course), not during the day. Lately, we’ve gotten more than 13-14 inches more than normal. But seriously, Kismet because it is a beautiful, fun love story. Flashdance and Footloose because the music is for dancing and dancing is great for exercising.


What are three of your favorite books...and why?
Anything by James Rollins but my favorite of his is Amazonia because I love a good suspenseful adventure and books placed in a jungle. Also, I love Michael Crichton’s Jurassic Park again because I love a good suspense/adventure. There are a lot of authors I will automatically read (some are Julie Garwood, Linda Howard, Tom Clancy {Jack Ryan books}, Julia Quinn, etc because there are many more).


Word Association. What comes to mind when you see the following words:
SUSPENSE: Death
WRITING: Hard work
INSPIRATION: The Lord
LOVE: My husband
MARGARET DALEY: A work in progress


What advice would you offer aspiring-to-be-published authors?
Keep writing and send your story out. If you don’t write, you won’t sell, and if you don’t send your story out, you’ll never sell.


What projects are you currently working on?
I’m finishing up Poisoned Secrets which is a Love Inspired Suspense for March 2009 and starting to think about my next book, the fourth book in Fostered by Love Series called Second Chance Family, out July 2009.

Want to learn more about Margaret and her writing? Then definitely take the time to check out her website and blog!

Need Something to Occupy Your Lunch Hour?

Then check out my three short stories that will be released SOON from Lady Leo Publishing: Connections, Got Til It's Gone, and Under the Mistletoe!


CONNECTIONS -- Romantic Comedy

Connections is a romantic comedy that’s perfect for today’s world where love is often found in Cyberspace.

Monday through Friday, for one hour a day, newspaper reporter Christianna Dayne’s life is wonderful. Despite her hectic life, she always manages to spend her lunch hour at Cyber Town where she can catch up with her best friend Samantha, grab a bite to eat, and most importantly, hook up with her cyber boo online. Christianna is definitely feeling LitGuy66, but she’s too afraid to meet him because she doesn’t want reality to come crashing down around her. What Christianna doesn’t know is she’s not in control; fate is, and when fate puts a flesh and blood man before her – a man who just happens to not only be her possible Mr. Wonderful but also her ultimate scoop – Christianna must decide whether to flee or stick around and pursue the endless possibilities.


GOT TIL IT’S GONE -- Romantic Drama
Rochelle is a beautiful sistah with a lot going for her: a great job, great family, great friends, and Will, her boyfriend that she adores more than anything. The problem? Lately, Will has been distant, spending more time at work and with his female friends’ problems than with her. When Will breaks one too many promises, Rochelle tells him off, goes to the club with her girlfriends, and attempts to forget her troubles with good friends, food, and dancing. When Will shows up while Rochelle’s in the arms of another man, the pair gets ready for their ultimate showdown.

Will Rochelle be the victor in love? Or will Will learn that he doesn’t know what he Got Til It’s Gone?


UNDER THE MISTLETOE -- Romantic Drama
For the last four years, publicist Lita Gregory has been running. Four years ago, she ran away from Eric Thomas, the love of her life, when she caught him in bed with another woman. Because of him, she left for New York and barely made trips back to her hometown in Georgia. A year ago, her beloved father passed, once again, prompting Lita to run from the pain in heart, the pain that told her that there was no longer a man on the planet that loved her. When Lita heads home for Christmas, she learns that some things changed while others remained the same: her mother has a new man in her life, and Eric is still around, wanting an explanation as to why Lita left him year ago. During her stay, Lita must confront her past, deal with her mother’s new love, and decide if her future is in New York – single or in Georgia with Eric.

More information - to include excerpts and purchase links - will be forthcoming!