When you’re not writing, what do you do to relax and have fun? Videogames – I love them, in particular role-playing games. Right now, I’m playing Skyrim which is the BEST. RPG. EVER.

Reading. I’m a ‘book slut’ so I read practically everything – right now, I’m reading a Lab 157 (Plum Island and biowarfare), In the Garden of Beasts (Ambassador Dodd in Nazi Germany) and Before I Forget (Dad with Alzheimer’s and son travel cross-country). I tend towards darker material, stories that may not have happy endings and sweetness and light.

I love watching movies, especially favorites that I’ve seen over and over again. Like Jaws, Alien and The Lord of the Rings. Great characters, great writing, and Ilose myself in them.

When did you begin writing? I was a shy child and didn’t really share with anyone how I felt about things and kept all my angst and worry to myself. And then, my GAT (Gifted and Talented) teacher Ms. Anderson bought me a fabric-covered journal when I was in third grade. And that was that. I haven’t stopped writing since. My first story was called “Blue Monday” and I still have it! I was telling dark, sad stories even as a third-grader.

Tell us about your latest book? Three weeks out of cancer surgery, crime reporter Syeeda McKay is in the pursuit of Los Angeles’s most active serial killer. Over the last twenty years, the Phantom Slayer has hunted African-American prostitutes working in one of the worst parts of South Los Angeles, killing eight victims in the alleys off Western Avenue, and then disappearing into the shadows. But Syeeda doesn’t know that the killer has turned his sights on her.

Detective Adam Sherwood, a hotshot investigator with the Robbery-Homicide Division of the LAPD, has been handed the Phantom Slayer cases, and together, he and Syeeda must figure out who is doing the killing . . . before Syeeda becomes his next victim.

Tell us who or what was the inspiration behind your latest book? The story was inspired by the Grim Sleeper murder cases – unfortunately, it is not aunique tale: Evil men hunting the most vulnerable in dark places. Also, much of Syeeda’s experiences with her friends come from my own experiences – sorority life, child of The Church, martinis, men problems, decades old grudges, flat-irons burning your ear… I put a lot of myself into the characters I write about.

The title “No One Knows You’re Here” came out of my learning about the real Grim Sleeper murder case in which the suspect killed prostitutes. In the real case, no one knew these murders were occurring until a reporter broke the story – like twenty years after the first murder. The case didn’t get much attention – from the national media, from the LAPD – since these women were on the margins of society.

In my story, the victims are also prostitutes and so again, ‘no one knows you’re here.’ But the title also relates even to Syeeda, who goes in between worlds, and to women of color, who tend to be ignored when they disappear or die.

Where can readers purchase your latest book? Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iTunes

What other titles have you written? My first novel was A Quiet Storm and was published by Scribner. It received great reviews including those from Publishers Weekly and Oprah Magazine. It’s paperback and can be purchased on Amazon.

My second novel is The View from Here and it’s my first digital-only title. The View from Here focuses on the beauties and hardships of marriage; the betrayals and promises made between husbands and wives; and the grief of one woman haunted by secrets. Nicole Baxter has always tried to control every element of her life, but that control is slipping away. She has issues. Abandonment issues. Marital issues. Conception issues. And she thinks her house in the hills is haunted. It doesn’t help that her husband Truman spleunks and climbs, making her worry more with each adventure he takes. As the two grow apart, Nicole makes decisions that may ultimately shatter her fragile marriage.

Her life changes on the afternoon she receives a phone call from the harbor. During a scuba dive, Truman disappears. No one — not his diving instructor, not the Coast Guard — can find him. Is he still alive? Or is grief making her believe the impossible?

Amazon

What do you find to be the best and worst part of being an author? Believing that your work is good. That cliché about being unable to see the forest because of the trees? Yeah, that’s writing. You’re in there every day, writing and thinking that your words suck and that you’re a fraud and realizing that you’re not a good plotter but do great character development and dwelling upon your shortcomings and on and on… Add to this that you’re reading (or have read) great books by incredible authors and your work will never, ever, ever be that good. Just put down the pen and find something else to do. But writing is what you do so you go on, hoping somehow that it will all work out.

What do you have on the burner for the next year?

Right now, I’m working on another LOLA (Ladies of Los Angeles) mystery titled A Girl is Like a Shadow. This one is from the point-of-view of Syeeda’s cop friend Elouise Norton. ‘Lou’ finds a dead girl hanging in a closet. On first glance, this seems to be a suicide but is it…?

How can readers reach you?

Please visit my blog Writing in My Car http://writinginmycar.blogspot.com. Also visit the Facebook page for No One Knows You’re Here. And follow me on Twitter @RachelHowzell.

Dee Here: Thanks, Rachel, for taking time out of your day to visit with us. I truly appreciate it.

Tell us a little about yourself. My Name is Mack Mama I am an Entertainer/Author/Motivational Speaker/Radio Host. I am a mother of an eleven year old, darling daughter named Velvet, who is my pride and joy. Umm lets see?? I did a considerable amount of time incarcerated due to an unsavory lifestyle that I regret but it made me who I am today. I had to go thru the storm to realize the beauty of calm skies.

When you’re not writing, what do you do to relax and have fun? I love to rap and sing I make music that I include in my books for the soundtrack. I host parties and perform. I also adore vacationing on tropical islands. I want to one day own a club in a five star resort.

Tell us something few know about you. I am incredibly reclusive. I have the capacity to become very large and am obsessed with my weight. It kills me because I enjoy eating gourmet meals. I am a great chef but don’t have a clue how to make southern food. I cook like a Caucasian.

What genre(s) do you like to read? Non fiction-Biographies and self-help, and Suspense thrillers, trashy novels like anything Jackie Collins, also whatever Sydney Sheldon wrote before his demise. Of course I love Urban Lit-Noire, Miz, Dashawn Taylor, Alfred Adams Jr, Fabiola Joseph and Caroline McGill are some of my favorite Urban Lit Authors.

What is your favorite novel and why? “Master of the Game” by Sydney Sheldon, you haven’t read to you read that book. I get chills just thinking of the genius of that novel. I didn’t just read that book I envisioned it. I cried, I cheered, I marveled and I vowed to one day be a third of a writer that Sydney was.

What was the last novel you read that you enjoyed and why? “Raised by Wolves inside the mind of a guerrilla hustler” by Cavario H. It is an autobiography that is brutally honest like my autobiography “Tales of an Original Bad Girl” I am really into truth and keeping it real and Raised by Wolves is the truth!

When did you begin writing? I began in prison, most predictable huh? lol

What genre(s) do you write? Non-Fiction, Self Help, Inspirational and Urban Lit

Where do your concepts for your novels come from? My life and the experiences I survived.

How long does it typically take you to write a book? Anywhere from 2 years to 30 days.

Tell us about your latest book? Daisy Jones is the title and it’s about a young, gorgeous temptress with alluring green eyes, who seduces men with her beauty. She is raised by her Mother to be a gold digger. Mama Jones instilled in her daughter the art of manipulation and how to scheme on her prey. Daisy had no idea that her heart would get in the way of business until she met her match in Young Chio the southern rapper and C.E.O of a multi-million dollar empire.

The story begins in Atlanta, Georgia and travels up north to New York City, as drama unfolds involving a wide range of colorful characters namely the notorious crew the O.B.G’s. These women are a gumbo of hustlers, killers and drug dealers who have earned a reputation in the streets for being beyond terrorist. Havoc ensues as the plot twists and turns. Deception, treachery and griminess threaten to swallow all the players connected to Daisy Jones.

The end result of Daisy Jones wild lifestyle will wake up all the sleeping young girls and women who are trying to get to the top by getting their “Daisy Jones” on. This book will take you thru a whirlwind of emotions and guaranteed to leave you gasping for a quick dose of reality because Daisy Jones lives in an insane world where nothing or nobody is what they seem!

Whew!! That just made me want to read my own book again, I know it is a winner because no lie I read it about four times after it was printed. I pick it up randomly just to admire the cover and feel my creation, glance thru a few pages and before you know it I’m stuck! Lol

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel, or do you discover it as you write? I never know what is going to flow from my pen, but with the sequel to Daisy Jones I have an idea, because I want it to pick up right where I left off.

Tell us a little about your main and supporting characters of your current book? Daisy is sixteen and a hot mess, she is unnaturally mature and can hold her own among the elites. She has class and only wants the best out of life. She was molded by her shallow, bitter mother to use and manipulate men for their money.

Anjel is her best friend and she is devoted to Daisy for many reasons, she admires her friend for her style and ability to remain with her virginity intact while still milking men for their treasures. She is also very young and was orphaned when her mom died tragically from cancer. She has no family and Daisy helped her escape from foster care when the caretakers where trying to molest and abuse her. She was forced to survive by stripping away her pride and dignity, unfortunately she felt she had found her calling. She loved her profession and used the unsavory lifestyle to forget about her degrading family secret.

Young Chio was Daisy’s biggest conquest but his swagger and personality not to mention millionaire status had her falling for him. He is used to having whatever he wants and Daisy is not the only treat on his menu.

Ivy is one of the founders of the notorious crew the O.B.G’s and she is Poison, thus the nick name Poison Ivy. She is larceny hearted, cold and calculated and has a twisted mentality due in large from her mother’s sadistic past. She is hired to seek revenge on Daisy by Young Chio and wont stop trying to collect her blood money until the job is completed.

There a few more main supporting characters but I fear I may be giving away a little too much.

Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination? Everyone is based on people I knew from the street life I lived and parts of myself.

Tell us who or what was the inspiration behind your latest book? I want to get young people to read interesting stories that they can relate to, and the opportune word is “relate.” I write these stories for the girls and guys that are living the lifestyle portrayed in my books. “Street Lit” with a twist, the twist is the moral content that I always include in all my books. I don’t glorify the lifestyle there are dire consequences for every action my characters partake in.

Does the setting play a major part in the development of your story? Yes the story starts in the south and I did a great job of including southern culture, facts and accurate dialog for that setting. When the story progressed and the setting switched to the north I didn’t lose my accuracy.

Where can readers purchase your latest book? Amazon and for the print version go to http://www.starstatuspublishing.com/  I am currently doing a promotional deal for both of my books it’s called the “Mack Pack” 2 for 20.00 free shipping and handling.

What other titles have you written? My autobiography titled “Tales of an Original Bad Girl” which is about my tumultuous life. I survived the homicidal streets of Brooklyn, New York after giving the judicial system 13 years of time out of my life. My story will horrify you, touch you and may have some parts that you can relate to. I really love the fact that I was brutally honest in my accounts. I shared and bared my soul, in doing so there is nothing about me left to judge. I told it all, Ha Ha that is the greatest con in the world THE TRUTH!

If you could change one thing about your writing career thus far, what would it be? I wish I would’ve started writing when the Industry was booming, I came in at a bad time. The literary world is oversaturated with fly by night authors who can put out anything and upload it to amazon. So now it’s not special to be an author anybody can borrow that title. So the question is can they keep it? I am aiming to show my worth by being consistent with great product. The money will come if excel in that. The money was real good back when Urban Lit exploded but now it’s a struggle to see your initial investment. I self-published without using a middle man.   I incurred the production cost, manufacturing cost and advertising cost completely as a sole proprietor. It is a killer, this is my main gig, I have no other job, besides my music. So I have to go hard.

What do you find to be the best and worst part of being an author? The best is how my daughter glows with pride when she brags and says “My Mommy writes books”

The worst is the financial part the Publishing Business is very costly.

When you were published for the first time, which route did you go – mainstream, small press,

vanity published or self-published and why or how did you choose this route?

I am a boss from the bottom of my toes to the tip of my nose. I simply can not work for anybody I love create control and have brilliant ideas so there was no other option for me SELF-PUBLISHED! See, if I make a mistake I swallow it and start again with no one to blame but myself, however if I work for you and you make a mistake with my career, I am disgruntled, stressed and ready to kick some butt!

How did it make you feel to become published for the first time and how did you celebrate? I felt Proud and accomplished. I partied like a RockStar.

What was your reaction the first time you saw your book in the bookstore? Siked!! I love when my plans come together, I am a mover and a shaker, I make things happen and won’t stop until I see results.

Since you’ve been published, how have you grown as a writer and now a published author? I am more focused on the business end and not so attached to my writing. I realize you have to take certain steps for the success of your company as a whole not just the personal accomplishment of being an author.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors? Self-Publish if you can, take up a collection if need be to get the funds but it will be less headaches in the long run. I am so anti-stress I don’t even want to sign other authors to my imprint yet. I just want to build my catalog and not have to try to please and cater to others. It is so much better to not have to deal with attitudes and ugly dispositions. I also advise them to get a great editor. I am using you, Deatri for my next book and advise new authors to follow my lead. You are super qualified, you really know your shit! lol

What do you have on the burner for the next year? I am currently writing my follow up to my autobiography titled “Lessons from an Original Bad Girl” which will be an inspirational self help guide for troubled teens. I want it to be used as a workbook within certain curriculums. I speak to at risk youth frequently and they relate to me, and actually listen. We connect because I am apart of their Hip Hop culture. I spit the real and they can feel me.

I also am working on “Mistress” the sequel to Daisy Jones, which is fiction and will be even better than Daisy.

I plan to book more celebrity guest for my blog talk radio show called “Mack Mama’s World Radio” I already interviewed some of the Literary World’s finest Authors, such as Treasure E. Blue, Miz, Dashawn Taylor, J.M Benjamin, Caroline McGill, Cavario H.(Senior editor of HipHop Weekly) and that’s just to name a few.

How can readers reach you?  http://www.mackmamaworld.com/

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/profile3.aspx?userurl=mackmama

http://www.facebook.com/pages/MACKMAMA/113456952004344

https://twitter.com/#!/mackmama

Do you have anything else you’d like to add? Thank you so much for having me on your blog this is one of the best print interviews I have ever had the pleasure of being apart of. Awesome questions, I feel like you really allowed me to open up and share myself, opposed to just promoting my books.

I want to thank Treasure E.Blue for adding me to an unbelievable group on facebook called ALL4One Authors helping Authors. I have met and networked with some gems including you Mrs. Deatri King-Bey. I wish all of us major success! To all of my supporters I truly appreciate the love, I am a Valentines Baby and I survive off of it! Aquarius babies stand up!

I owe all that I am to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and although I am a long way from being worthy I am nearer today than I was yesterday!  With that being said I bow, walk away and pause, turn back and blow a kiss to my fans all while I am humbled by their thunderous applause.

END SCENE.

Dee Here: It was a true pleasure having you and I thank you for all you do and hope you come on back.

Kisha Green

I met Kisha a few months ago on Facebook when she co-created a group for authors to support authors. I joined the group even though most of the authors were street and urban lit because you know I’m all about authors supporting each other instead of treating each other like competition. Check out the All4One link in the menu to learn more about Kisha’s group, but first, let’s meet author Kisha Green.

Tell us a little about yourself. Who is Kisha Green? Well, I’m a mother, sister,friend ,author,publisher,online radio host,book reviewer, avid reader, literary jewel dropper, Indie artist supporter, reality tv show junkie and Twitter addict.

I’m also a work in progress so I know I am destined for greatness because failure is NOT an option.

What genre(s) do you like to read? Mystery and Suspense

What is your favorite novel and why? That’s a hard question… I like so many but I enjoyed E.Lynn Harris books.

What was the last novel you read that you enjoyed and why? A Beautiful Satan by RJ Champ. I enjoyed it because it was a suspenseful thriller and kept me engrossed all the way until the ending, while having you want to read more.

When did you begin writing? I started writing at the age of eleven when I received a journal for a birthday gift. I wrote daily and as I would often reflect on my entries, they were like mini stories with an anticipated happy ending.

What genre(s) do you write? Contemporary Fiction

Where do your concepts for your novels come from? From my friends and family but mostly life issues.

How long does it typically take you to write a book? Anywhere from two weeks to nine months depending on what type of mood I am in.

Tell us about your latest book? And Even If I Did is a story of three women who all had a past but were trying to turn negatives into positives. This book dealt with real life issues such as addiction, HIV, death, rape and abandonment issues.

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel, or do you discover it as you write? I know the plot beforehand and write an outline around that.

Tell us a little about your main and supporting characters of your current book? Simone from “And Even If I Did” just wanted love but at what cost? Marrying the son of the man who raped her or sleeping with her best friend’s man? She believed all of her actions were justified because she played the “victim” role all the time.

Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination? My stories all come from life issues that my friends and family have went through.

Tell us who or what was the inspiration behind your latest book? My kids are always my inspiration and motivation for writing. I want leave them a legacy.

Where can readers purchase your latest book? You can purchase my books through my website, www.divabooksinconline.com

When you were published for the first time, which route did you go – mainstream, small press, vanity published or self-published and why or how did you choose this route? I was originally going to go with a small publishing house but after extensive investigation it was revealed that the company was a fraud. From that moment I said I was going to be in charge of my literary fate and self-published.

How did it make you feel to become published for the first time and how did you celebrate? It was a great feeling knowing I had achieved my goal and to celebrate I had dinner and drinks.

What was your reaction the first time you saw your book in the bookstore? I was very excited. Took a picture and made it my computer’s screen saver for a while ( corny I know ) .

Since you’ve been published, how have you grown as a writer and now a published author? I am writing better and not just writing as an author but also the ability to read it from a readers point of view as well.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors? Research… Research… Research did I mention… Research. In this day and time the Internet is a gift and a curse. For the most part social media is an effective way to market your book but the bad side is that there are so many CON artists claiming to be editors, proof readers, reviewers, graphic designers, publishers and other literary personnel. I can’t stress the point enough that you MUST research and conduct your OWN thorough investigation when getting referrals from other authors claiming they are “helping” you. People lie and fabricate a lot to appear what they really aren’t.

What do you have on the burner for the next year? DivaBooksInc will be accepting manuscripts starting February 2012, I will be re- releasing my self-help/ inspirational book “Dear Mommy.” The launching of a sexy new late night online radio show “Kiss & Tell”

How can readers reach you?

Twitter- @KishaGreen

Facebook – www.facebook.com/1KishaGreen

Website- www.divabooksinconline.com

Writer’s Life Chats- www.writerslifechats.com

Do you have anything else you’d like to add? Failure is NOT an option…Ever!

From me to you!

www.divabooksinconline.com

Dee here: Thanks for dropping by Kisha

When you’re not writing, what do you do to relax and have fun? When I’m not writing, I like to curl up with my Kindle and read. Reading is both relaxing and fun. I also like to go out with my girls, but I’m really a home body.

What is your favorite novel and why? I don’t have a favorite novel since I like so many novels for so many reasons. Omar Tyree’s “Flyy Girl” inspired me to write urban fiction.

What was the last novel you read that you enjoyed and why? The last novels that I read and enjoyed were the Bankroll Squad trilogy by David Weaver. It had all of the elements of a hot, juicy street trilogy. It was very addictive and I didn’t want the story to end. All three books were page turners. I love his plot twists.

When did you begin writing? I started writing short stories at a really young age. I was probably about seven years old.

What genre(s) do you write? I write Urban or Street Lit. At least that’s what genre my writing is considered. I just think what I write is realistic and people can relate to it.

Where do your concepts for your novels come from? The concepts for my novels come from many sources. It could be a song, or a dream. In the case of “Forbidden Fruit,” the characters came to me in a dream. The concept from the story came later. I’m inspired by my imagination, and real life situations.

Tell us about your latest book? My latest, and first published novel is titled “Forbidden Fruit.” The main characters Ayanna and Diablo came to me in a dream. I wanted to write a romance, but I wanted it to be an urban or street romance. Ayanna has a good life until her mother becomes addicted to drugs and her hustling father gets locked up for murder. Her sister Amaya is all that she has left, and she does whatever she has to do to take care of her. In the process she gets arrested for stealing. After the system steps in Ayanna and her sister are separated briefly before a family member takes them in. This introduces their cousin Princess who has her own share of issues. Ayanna meets the infamous Diablo Perez, who runs Atlanta drug trade. Their romance is an emotional rollercoaster. It’s a fast paced street tale with all of the elements of a page turner. There’s plenty of drama, and a plot twist that will blow your mind. The subplots are all just as interesting. The characters are real, and very believable. I don’t want to give the story away. It is available now on Nook, Kindle and iTunes. Print copies are available at www.anexanderbooks.com.

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel, or do you discover it as you write? I go against the grain and freestyle when I write. I am a spontaneous person, and I like to allow the characters and plot to evolve as I write. Sometimes I am at awe at what I come up with. I may have a general idea of what I want to happen, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. It’s almost as if the characters take on a life of their own.

Tell us a little about your main and supporting characters of your current book? Ayanna, the main character of the story, is very strong willed and street wise. She is a faithful, loyal person who will do anything for those she loves. She has a heart of gold that can turn into stone if you cross her the wrong way. Diablo, Ayanna’s boyfriend, runs the streets of Atlanta. He is sexy, and has a swag that attracts the ladies. He loves Ayanna, but he’s a lady’s man. He’s very confident, and cool, but can be venomous like a black cobra. Amaya, Ayanna’s little sister, is often lost in Ayanna’s shadow. Throughout the story she is on a quest to find herself, but makes lots of mistakes along the way. Princess, Ayanna’s cousin, is only after her own pleasures and does not care who she hurts in the process. She loves money and gets it however from whomever.

Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination? I would say that my characters are based on real people and my imagination. Sometimes I don’t realize that I’ve based a character on someone I know until I go back and read.

Where can readers purchase your latest book? “Forbidden Fruit” is available on Kindle, Nook  ($.99 through January) or the print version from www.anexanderbooks.com

What do you have on the burner for the next year? A sequel and prequel to Forbidden Fruit will be released this year. The final installment in the series will be out soon after. After the Forbidden Fruit trilogy I will be releasing more novels.

How can readers reach you? I am on Facebook and Twitter as @urbanlitress. You can also email me at urbanlitress79@gmail.com or visit www.anexanderbooks.com

Dee here: Thanks for dropping by and telling us a little about your self and Forbidden Fruit.

When you’re not writing, what do you do to relax and have fun? I love to watch movies and read books. I’m an avid reader.

Tell us something few know about you. I weighed one pound when I was born and dropped down to thirteen ounces, I wrote a full novel in 2 weeks, and my editor is my past high school teacher. Isn’t that great?

What genre(s) do you like to read? Drama, street lit, erotica, and mysteries

What is your favorite novel and why? Where would I be by Laura T. Johnson, because it shows that love can happen for a woman who has been abused. She did not give up on love. A must read.

What was the last novel you read that you enjoyed and why? The last novel I read is Jaded by Envy Red. I enjoyed this novel because it was so different from the usual. Most books you know what’s going to happened and the ending of this book, caught me so off guard!

When did you begin writing? I began writing when I was a sophomore in high school. Writing was always an escape for me because I was often teased in school. I wrote poetry and short stories.

What genre(s) do you write? I write mainstream fiction and some erotica.

Where do your concepts for your novels come from? I don’t know, that’s a good question. My last novel came from me watching the news about a girl being raped and they couldn’t find the killer. I thought maybe I will write a novel where the girl gets revenge on being abused.

How long does it typically take you to write a book? I’d say about a month to two months.

Tell us about your latest book? My latest novel is called Sweet Innocence. It’s about a girl who was sexually abused by her father, and she grows up to get revenge on what happened to her. Although her father passed away, she is still reminded of her past.

Aurica Daniels is an award winning author from Delaware. She’s best known for her thriller novels. She is loved by her friends and cherished by her fans; Aurica has a secret past that she never told, until now. Abused by her father as a child Aurica wonders if she will move on from her past and have a prominent future. Aurica and her publicist go on a five day book tour, but Aurica just doesn’t go on any tour, she goes on a revenge spree that will shock all! Will Mrs. Daniels get the Sweet Innocence she deserves or will her past continue to crowd her future?

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel, or do you discover it as you write? I am consciously aware. I get an idea and then I just go with it.

Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination? They are typically from my imagination but people are able to relate to them.

Can you tell us who or what was the inspiration behind your latest book? I’d have to say that my fans inspired me to write this book. I was always asked are you going to write something that has some mystery in it and I did. I hope that I made them proud of my work.

Does the setting play a major part in the development of your story?

Where can readers purchase your latest book? Amazon

What other titles have you written? I have written two other titles. A novel called Through Her Eyes that will be re-released soon, and a short story for an anthology called Rendezvous that will be out in April 2012.

If you could change one thing about your writing career thus far, what would it be? I wouldn’t change anything. I think that my work speaks for itself and that I have a different style.

What do you find to be the best and worst part of being an author? The best part of being an author is having people read your work and enjoy it, the worst part is when people often bash authors when they don’t know what blood, sweat, and tears, and hard work we have put into our craft.

How did it make you feel to become published for the first time and how did you celebrate? Wow, it felt amazing. I cried, did my church shout dance, lol, and I thanked God. To celebrate I went out to dinner with a few friends.

What was your reaction the first time you saw your book in the bookstore? I was happy. I couldn’t believe that my hard work had finally paid off.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors? I would like for aspiring authors to just go for it. Be the best that you can be even when people will say that you won’t amount to anything. The best revenge to get on someone is to prove them wrong. Let people see your craft and read your stories. Everyone has a story to tell.

How can readers reach you? http://www.facebook.com/#!/krystold , www.twitter.com/@Krystol1

Do you have anything else you’d like to add? Leave a review on amazon.com to let people know how you liked Sweet Innocence!

Thank you for dropping by Krystol. Good luck and I look forward to seeing more from you.

What genre(s) do you write? Hi, Deatri! Thank you so much for inviting me to chat with your community. I’m thrilled and honored to be here.

Regarding in which genres I write, I write romantic suspense as Patricia Sargeant and contemporary romance as Regina Hart. My previous titles include You Belong to Me (November 2006) and On Fire (September 2007) as Patricia Sargeant. I’ve also written Sweet Deception (June 2009) and Heated Rivalry (April 2010) – two contemporary romances – as Patricia Sargeant before switching to Regina Hart for my contemporaries. My first Regina Hart book was Fast Break (June 2011). My second Regina Hart title, Smooth Play, is a January 2012, release.

Tell us about your latest book. Thank you for asking, Deatri.

Smooth Play is the second book in my Regina Hart Brooklyn Monarchs contemporary romance trilogy. The Brooklyn Monarchs is a fictional National Basketball Association team based in – you’ve guessed it! – Brooklyn, New York. (Brooklyn’s in the house!) The trilogy – Fast Break, Smooth Play and the soon-to-be-released Keeping Score – follows the Monarchs’ Cinderella season. Readers are introduced to the team in Fast Break, the first book of the trilogy. Fast Break features the team’s fearless owner and former Women’s National Basketball Association superstar, Jaclyn Jones, and the team’s rookie head coach and future NBA Hall of Famer DeMarcus Guinn.

In Smooth Play, the once-basement-dweller Monarchs have made it into the playoffs. Now the franchise’s marketing executive, Troy Marshall, must ensure the media coverage doesn’t overwhelm the suddenly successful ballers. But that goal puts him at odds with sports reporter Andrea Benson, who needs a big story to revive her career.

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel, or do you discover it as you write?

This is a great question, Deatri. Thank you for asking it. I’m very aware of my story’s plot before I type, “Chapter One.” I’m an obsessive compulsive plotter. I outline my characters, the plot, the subplots and turning points before starting the story. For me, plotting is a defense mechanism. I’m afraid that if I don’t plot in that much detail, it will turn out that I don’t have a story. Wouldn’t that be a shame?

The Romance Slam Jam organizers were kind enough to allow me to present my workshop, Fun with Plotting, during the 17^th Romance Slam Jam in Little Rock, Arkansas, Romance in the Rock. Has everyone signed up for the Romance Slam Jam? If not, run – don’t walk – to the Romance Slam Jam website and register now. It’s going to be another wonderful event!

Where can readers purchase your latest book? Smooth Play, my January 2012 release, is available in book stores. It also can be purchased online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Indie bound and Powells. Links to these online sites are on my Regina Hart website at www.AuthorReginaHart.com. If you do get a copy of Smooth Play, I’d love to know what you think of the story. You can email me at BooksByPatricia@yahoo.com.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors? The most important advice I could give aspiring authors is to never, ever give up your dream of becoming a published author. But the fact is this is not an easy career, is it, Dee? Aspiring authors have to make the decision with their eyes wide open as to whether they’re suited to a publishing career.

Continue to study the craft of writing. But equally important is keeping abreast of changes in the publishing industry. What changes are trending in publishing contracts? How’s technology impacting the industry? What’s the buzz on specific publishers and their relationships with their authors? Knowledge is power.

How can readers reach you? I love to hear from readers and I always respond. My email address is BooksByPatricia@yahoo.com. My Regina Hart website is www.AuthorReginaHart.com. My Patricia Sargeant website is www.PatriciaSargeant.com. Readers can sign up for my e-newsletter via either website. I’m also on Twitter at @BooksByPatricia.

Before saying goodbye, I’d like to thank all of my readers very sincerely for their interest in and support of my stories. You’ve helped my dream come true.

I’d also like to offer two readers one copy of Fast Break each, the first book in my Regina Hart Brooklyn Monarchs trilogy. For the chance to get a copy of Fast Break, be the first to correctly answer this trivia question, what is the name of the Brooklyn Monarchs’ arena? The answer’s on my Regina Hart website, www.AuthorReginaHart.com. Please send your answer to BooksByPatricia@yahoo.com and put “Brooklyn Monarchs arena” in the subject heading. Thanks in advance!

And, Deatri, thank you again for inviting me to visit. I’ve had a great time!

Dee here: Everyone, Patricia is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet and her books are FANTASTIC! We’ll be discussion her Regina Hart titles Fast Break and Smooth Play in the Black Romance Online Bookclub the last Saturday in January (Jan 28, 2012) and you are invited. It’s on Shelfari, so if you don’t have an account, you’ll need to set up a free one. It’s an all day event. Just pop in when you can. http://www.shelfari.com/groups/12038/discussions  Patricia, thanks for taking time out of your busy day to hang with us. Come on back and let us know about future books.

Tell us a little about yourself. I am A’ndrea J. Wilson, author of six books (five currently in print). I write fiction and nonfiction books, my most recent being a novel entitled Wife 101. I am also a college professor, teaching psychology, sociology, and health and human services courses. I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Global Leadership. I am the founder of a new publishing company, Divine Garden Press, which specializes in books on marriage and family issues. I am the current chairperson for the Ladies of the Dove Literary Festival which takes place every March in Hinesville, Georgia. Additionally, I conduct workshops and seminars on topics related to writing, education, marriage, and families.

When you’re not writing, what do you do to relax and have fun? I love to travel both domestically and internationally. I read all of the time. I enjoy shopping, watching movies, going out to eat with friends, and listening to music.

Tell us something few know about you. I watch cartoons and children’s TV programs even when no kids are around. I love and collect Christmas music. Back in the day, I got into a fist fight with a friend because she said that I couldn’t do “The Alf” (an old 80’s dance).

What genre(s) do you like to read? I read almost everything! I love reading and books are one of my favorite things! I read fiction and nonfiction, romance, general fiction, mystery, thrillers, self-help, religious, autobiographies, etc. The only genres that I don’t really read are science fiction and fantasy.

When did you begin writing? I started writing when I was in the ninth grade. I would come home from school every day and work on stories about teenagers. My sophomore year in high school, I transferred from my vocational high school to a school for performing arts. It was there that I began to develop my art. After high school, I abandoned creative writing and focused on going to college for psychology. It wasn’t until a few years before I finished my doctorate that I returned to creative writing and actually finished writing my first book.

What genre(s) do you write? Too many! I write Christian fiction/Romance, General Fiction, Young Adult Fiction, Self-Help, Christian Nonfiction/Inspirational, and Thriller/Suspense.

Tell us about your latest book? My most recent book is Wife 101, a novel about a successful and overly independent woman who wants marriage, but is hardly marriage material. Through the course of the book, she enrolls in a wife training course, hoping to figure out how make her relationships work. Readers get the opportunity to watch her as she learns important lessons about womanhood/wifehood and attempts to apply these lessons to her life and relationships. Wife 101 is a great book for any woman, married or single, who wants to improve their relationship, but be entertained by a witty novel in the process.

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel, or do you discover it as you write? I know the general idea when I start. I also have an idea of the kind of ending I want, but that is really it. I allow the story to unfold as I write and most times the ending is not exactly what I had in mind when I began, but I am okay with it. The most important aspect for me is the message in the story. I am intentional about the message that I want to convey before I start writing and I try to make sure that message is brought forth at some point in the book.

Can you tell us a little about your main and supporting characters? Amber Ross is the main character of Wife 101. She is a self-made woman who knows what she wants and knows how to get it–with the exception of a good man. Amber is feisty and used to playing hardball with men in the work world, so when it comes to her personal life, she has no clue of how to positively interact with men. She is afraid of becoming like her mother, like many women are, so she rejects any behavior that even hints at submissiveness. She has a single, best friend, Tisha, who encourages her self-sabotaging actions and loves to give bad advice. Her ex-boyfriend, Chris, is that guy who knows he had a decent woman, but was looking for a woman who would play a more feminine role in their relationships and just didn’t know how to be honest with her about his needs. There are other characters, but to tell you who they are would be ruining the story. You will just have to read it to find out…

Can you tell us who or what was the inspiration behind your latest book? Two things inspired Wife 101. First, seeing the struggle women, especially successful black women, have in relationships. Women complain that finding a mate is difficult (which it may be at times), but don’t recognize the behaviors that they demonstrate that keep them away from the love and commitment they crave. Second, reading and studying Proverbs 31. After a month of study and divine revelation, I found so much wisdom in the verses that still applies to the role of women within society and families. I knew I wanted to write about what I had learned, but I wanted to do it creatively so that more women would be inclined to read it. Learning doesn’t have to be boring; it can be fun and exciting. I believe Wife 101 is the perfect balance between an educational tool and a laugh-out-loud, page-turning, juicy novel.

Where can readers purchase your latest book?  Softcover and Kindle. Book is also available on Nook

What other titles have you written?
Nonfiction
My Business His Way: Wisdom & Inspiration for Entrepreneurs
Kiss & Tell: Releasing Expectations

Fiction
The Things We Said We Would Never Do
Ready & ABLE Teens: Ebony’s Bad Habit

If you could change one thing about your writing career thus far, what would it be? I would have started much earlier. I sat on my gift for 13 years before publishing my first book. I always had the talent and knew it was something that I was supposed to do, but I was so caught up in having the career that I thought I should have rather than the one that was truly what God had in mind for me. It took me a while to really accept the calling to write as a profession and purpose. I always wonder if I would have accepted my purpose earlier on, where I would be as an author now.

What do you find to be the best and worst part of being an author? The best part is hearing that something I wrote positively impacted another person. Just knowing that what I write has the power to help, heal, and provide hope is priceless. The worst part is the money. It’s hard out here for a pimp–I mean an author!

Since you’ve been published, how have you grown as a writer and now a published author? I believe that my writing is better. I read a lot and am constantly learning new ways to improve upon my style and delivery. I also have come to learn much more about the industry than when I began which helps me to write better books and know more about how to market them.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors? Learn to write every day. Be willing to develop your craft. The real work comes after the book is published so be ready to work like a Hebrew Slave. Learn to accept criticism because it is coming. Don’t do it for the money because it will most likely never be as profitable as it should be.

What do you have on the burner for the next year? I have a short story that will appear in an anthology edited by Kendra Norman-Bellamy. The second book in my Young Adult Series, Ready & ABLE Teens: Desiree Dishes the Dirt will be released in March 2012. The sequel to Wife 101, Husband 101, will be released in the winter of 2012. And I plan to do a lot of book events and media throughout the year, including the Ladies of the Dove Literary Festival in March of 2012 which my sorority chapter hosts.

How can readers reach you?
Website: www.andreawilsononline.com
Email: drajwilson@gmail.com
Facebook: Author A’ndrea J. Wilson
Blog www.drawilson.wordpress.com

Dee here. A’ndrea, thank you so much for giving us a little insight into your work and you. I hope you come back again and let us know when your future books are released. I look forward to meeting you in person at the Slam Jam.

Tell us a little about yourself.

Writing has been a big part of my life for a long time.  I’m the author of 12 novels, two novellas and a nonfiction writing book.  My first book was published in 1994 and my next one is scheduled for 2012.  My writing career has been one of change or instability, depending on how you look at it. I’ve written for several publishers, including Kensington, Harlequin, Tyndale House, Walk Worthy Press/Warner, Berkley Books and Avon.  I’m on my third agent.  And I’ve written in multiple genres. I also do a lot of writing in my day job as an associate professor of educational technology.  It’s a different kind of writing, of course, but it’s still writing.

When you’re not writing, what do you do to relax and have fun? My husband and I like to cruise and we like to do road trips.  We usually do a cruise in December of each year, though we don’t have one scheduled for this year. The last time we cruised I was finishing up a book.  That didn’t go over so well as my husband had to tour St. Marten by himself since I was stuck on the computer.  Now we have a rule: no computers on vacation.  We’ve already decided that our next cruise will be an 8-day Southern Caribbean cruise that includes a stop in Antigua. We’ve made two road trips to Washington, DC and two to Michigan this year.  We plan one more trip before the year ends.

Tell us something few know about you.

I was married at age fifty and it was my first marriage.  We just celebrated our second anniversary.   I write about my experiences in my Newlywed at 50 blog posts.

I’m a breast cancer survivor.  I was diagnosed three months before our first anniversary.  Early detection is the key to survival, so get those mammograms, ladies!

I’m a huge fan of Sons of Anarchy, the FX television show about a corrupt motorcycle club. I actually go on Facebook and chat with other fans while watching the weekly episodes. Yes, I love the show.

What is your favorite novel and why? I’m not sure I have a favorite, but twice I’ve been tempted to write an author and tell her how much I enjoyed her book.  The first was Julie Garwood’s For the Roses.  That was a wonderful book, not for the romance, but for the way the author portrayed the relationship between a runaway slave, Adam, and his white adopted brothers and sister.  I loved reading that book.  The second was Sharon Ewell Foster’s Passing by Samaria.  That story was about racism and forgiveness.  What a great book!  If you haven’t read it, you must read it TODAY.

When did you begin writing? I started writing in Ms. Milazo’s fifth grade class.  We would write stories and read them to the class.  My “Interview with the Jackson Five” story was a winner with the class and with the teacher.    My first novel wasn’t published until 1994 as part of Kensington’s Arabesque line of African-American romances.  That was more than 25 years after my debut in Ms. Milazo’s class.

What genre(s) do you write? I started my career as a contemporary romance writer.  From there, I moved to inspirational romance and on to the more general Christian/inspirational fiction.  I’ve started tagging my work as “emotional and uplifting romance and family drama” because I think that phrase captures the essence of my writing.  I’m working on inserting “forgiveness” and “faith” in the tag, but I haven’t come up with anything I like yet.

Tell us about your latest book? Avon is going to publish Delilah’s Daughters next year if, and that’s a big if, I get it turned in by my January due date.  The book started as the story of a mother with three daughters who lose an American Idol type contest and are forced to find other ways to develop their musical talent.  As I began writing, the story evolved to more of a family story about maintaining and respecting family bonds while pursuing individual goals.  I can’t seem to get away from family, faith and forgiveness in my stories.

I recently refreshed and republished several of my older books in eBook format.  Friend and Lover, The Nicest Guy in America and The Way Home are contemporary romances that I wrote early in my writing career.  Awakening Mercy and Abiding Hope are inspirational romances that I wrote a bit later.  My most recently republished book is Telling Your Tale: A Beginner’s Guide to Writing Fiction for Print and eBook.  It was originally published by Berkley Books as Telling The Tale: The African-American Fiction Writers Guide.  I refreshed the content a bit to reflect the ebook revolution and some of the lessons I’ve learned in the ten years since the book was first published.

The teacher in me is really excited about Telling Your Tale.  It’s chocked full of activities and exercises so writers get to practice the skills and techniques they read about in the book.  I’ve also published a separate Telling Your Tale Workbook with all the exercises and worksheets available for download as writeable PDF and DOC files for easy data entry.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors?  I’m envious of aspiring authors today.  There are so many more doors open to them than were open when I first started writing.  While new authors are welcome to go the traditional route of landing an agent and signing with a major publisher, they have eBook and Print-on-Demand (POD) options to get their work in front of readers.  So my advice to aspiring authors today is to blaze your own path.  Write the story of your heart and then write the second story of your heart.  Keep writing.  Never stop writing.  Study the craft of writing so that you can write a good book.  Once you can craft a good book, you’re in a position to take advantage of the many publishing options available to you.  If you need some help crafting your book or getting it into the hands of readers, download a copy of Telling Your Tale and Dee’s Become a Successful Author. Those two resources can get you started or get you over the hump, depending on where you are with your writing.

You can find my booklist (complete with excerpts and links to bookstores) at http://www.angelabenson.com/books.html

How can readers reach you? You can always find me at my website, http://www.angelabenson.com.  From there, you can access my blog, a list of my books and my contact information.  I’m also on http://www.facebook.com/angelabensonbooks and http://www.twitter.com/eAngelaBenson, but I don’t hang out in those venues very much.

Do you have anything else you’d like to add? If any of your visitors buy a copy of Telling the Tale this week, I’ll give them a free copy of the workbook in DOC format.  Just send me an e-mail to books@angelabenson.com telling me where and when you bought Telling the Tale and put “Dee sent me” in the subject line.

Thanks for hosting me today.   It’s good to spend some time with you and your visitors and friends. You all have to come over and visit me on my blog soon.

Dee here: Angela, it was a pleasure interviewing you. Feel free to come back any time. For the Roses is one of my all time favorite books. I’ve read it a million times. I need to see if it’s on Nook yet.

Happy reading everyone

When you’re not writing, what do you do to relax and have fun? I’m so boring, for relaxation I read or go to the movies.

Tell us something few know about you. I love black and white movies. I do not like fried chicken. I’m very shy.

What genre(s) do you like to read? Romance, of course. LOL paranormal and suspense are favorites too

When did you begin writing? When I was a sophomore in high school

What genre(s) do you write? Contemporary and paranormal romance and young adult paranormal

How long does it typically take you to write a book? Depending on how long the book needs to be – shorter books about 6-8 weeks, longer books about 12-16 weeks

Tell us about your latest book? Winter Kisses is the last story in the Lakefield Trilogy. Monica Lakefield is known for being bitchy ninety-eight percent of the time, but there’s one man who thinks he can finally tame her. Alex Bennett is no-nonsense when it comes to business, and women, so he proves to be a perfect match for Monica.

Are you consciously aware of the plot before you begin a novel, or do you discover it as you write? I have an idea of the story I want to tell before I begin writing. The details unfold as I go along and there are usually some surprises.

Tell us a little about your main and supporting characters? Monica Lakefield is troubled and like a lot of people who have personal issues, she tends to take her bad mood out on everyone around her, particularly men. Alex Bennett is a successful businessman with close family ties and a big heart. He’s not as laid back as his brothers, but knows what he wants and how to get it.

Do you tend to base your characters on real people or are they totally from your imagination? Usually a combination of both, especially in my young adult stories. I watch my teenagers and their friends and gain a lot of insight into their world which helps me create my characters.

Can you tell us who or what was the inspiration behind your latest book? There was no specification inspiration for Winter Kisses. Monica’s character has evolved since the first Lakefield book so I knew there would have to be a really strong man to conquer her.

Does the setting play a major part in the development of your story? In this story I used setting to cut down Monica’s defenses. She’s in her element at the office, or at the art gallery which she runs, so I had to take her away from all of that so she’d focus on the man and how he made her feel. They don’t stay secluded for long because Monica would never stand for that, but the ski resort provides just the opening that Alex needs.

Where can readers purchase Winter Kisses? Amazon, Barnes & Noble

If you could change one thing about your writing career thus far, what would it be? I really don’t think I’d change anything. Each misstep has been a learning experience and made me appreciate my gift even more. I believe that when something comes too easy it isn’t cherished as much, so I appreciate that I’ve had hits and misses and probably will continue to in the future. In the end, I hope it makes me a better writer.

What do you find to be the best and worst part of being an author? The best part is being able to escape into a world you’ve created and to enjoy seeing that story reach the readers. The worst part is the business aspect of the business, it takes a lot of time and energy and generally works my nerves.

When you were published for the first time, which route did you go – mainstream, small press, vanity published or self-published and why or how did you choose this route? My first published novel was through a small press that specialized in African American romance. I knew right away, I wanted to be traditionally published and tried many publishers before landing a contract.

How did it make you feel to become published for the first time and how did you celebrate? I was uber excited but I didn’t celebrate because I was afraid to jinx it. LOL

What was your reaction the first time you saw your book in the bookstore? I have the same reaction each time I see my book in a store, it’s like Christmas morning.

Since you’ve been published, how have you grown as a writer and now a published author? I’m not naïve enough to believe that a good story is all you need. I have a much greater respect for the craft of writing and try to improve with each book.

What advice do you have for aspiring authors? Persistence and dedication. This is not an industry for the faint of heart. If you’re going to write, do it and stick to it.

What do you have on the burner for the next year? A new paranormal series kicks off in March – The Shadow Shifters. Instead of vampires think jaguars—instead of students think attorneys in Washington D.C. fighting the drug war, dirty politicians and an uprising of rogue shifters.

How can readers reach you?
http://www.acarthur.net/
http://www.artistarthurbooks.com/
https://twitter.com/yabyartist
https://twitter.com/AcArthur
https://facebook.com/yabyartist
https://facebook.com/AcArthur

Dee here: I just wanted a second to thank A.C. for taking the time out of her busy scheudle to visit with us today. If you haven’t gotten your copy of Winter Kisses, be sure to pick it up today (Amazon, Barnes & Noble).  Winter Kisses is this month’s discussion at the  Black Romance Book Club Dec. 17. A.C. will be there. It’s online so you can pop in and out all day if you’d like. Come on by and join us. You’ll need to have a http://www.Shelfari.com account (it’s free).

Five years ago when District Attorney Houston Write lost his wife to breast cancer, he began going through the motions of life without truly living. Then choreographer Sabrina Ingles moved in across the street and reignited a fire within him he thought was long gone. Now Houston is ready to live again and give his child the mother she deserves.

When Sabrina Ingles’ marriage went down in flames, she swore off relationships and the trouble that accompanies them. But how could she shield herself against the most adorable little girl ever? Marybeth quickly became a part of Sabrina’s heart as Sabrina’s undeniable attraction to Houston grew stronger. Guarding her heart against the type of man fantasies are jealous of has become a full-time job, but she refuses to be burned again.

Purchase from the eBook from Amazon, Barnes & Noble  Purchase the print double header from Amazon, Barnes & Noble

Back Story

When I began the writing the Write brother’s series, I decided I wanted one of the brothers to be a widower. I know a young woman who has lost her husband, and needless to say, she is devastated. In romance you fall in love with “the one” for you, but what if your “one” dies?

There are four Write brothers. Austin’s story was told first in Tell Her How You Feel, and the other brothers were introduced. I asked readers to help me choose which brother’s story would be next, and Houston won by a landslide. There are still two brothers to go and I hope you help me decide who’s next. Visit Son 4 Sale to cast your vote.