New Book Release!

***NEW RELEASE ALERT***

LaRue “Church Mouse” Simmons is a feisty pain in my ass. I knew I loved her when we met in that biker bar two years ago. She blew me off then, but now she’s back and needs my help. I will do anything to show her she belongs with me. Even help her avenge her father’s death. If I can only get her to curb that attitude and listen, we’ll get along just fine. But, who said love was easy? She’s stubborn, independent and thinks she knows everything. I’m a surly bastard who enjoys the game more than she knows. It’s going to be fun taming LaRue.

***This is Book 2 in The Predator MC Series. Book 1 in this series is a prequel, and is only available to the author’s newsletter subscribers. Click HERE to subscribe

However, The Taming of LaRue can be enjoyed as a Standalone novel.***

A BWWM LoveRotica Tale

Click HERE to purchase The Taming of LaRue!

Couch Convos with Lisa W. Tetting – JJ Murray

Welcome to Couch Convos with Lisa W. Tetting, where we delve into the world of Author Interviews. Lisa’s convos with all types of authors will feel like you’re sitting on the couch chatting along. Find out about up and coming authors, their books and the business of writing all in one place. So grab some tea and a snack & get ready for a good time. Today we welcome Best- selling, award-winning interracial romance  author JJ Murray!

Part I

©JJ Murray used with permission

LL: Welcome to Couch Convos! Let’s get started. The Date is amazing! What inspired you to write it?

JJ: THE DATE is a departure for me because it’s not a typical HEA romance. I believe it is a more realistic view of what passes for romance in the new millennium.

LL: Why do you choose to write about interracial couples?

JJ: I have been writing interracial romance (BWWM) since I began courting my future wife in 1989. She inspired many of the heroines in my 38 novels.

LL: Your main character in The Date, William makes such a transition from push over to standing firm in his convictions. How did you come up with his personality and everything that came with it?

JJ: Like most of my heroes, William is not an alpha male. Though readers seem to prefer alphas in their romance novels, I believe they have a much better chance of meeting and snuggling up to a beta male in real life.

LL: How did you determine the places William would take Brittany to on their date?

JJ: I chose the “events” in their date based on what I thought would create the most fun and romance. Like all dates, some of what they do doesn’t quite work out.

Part II

LL: Who designs your book covers and how did you come up with the concept for them?

JJ: Zaji from Creative Ankh Designs; I provide the idea and the graphics, and she assembles the cover.

LL: Which social media platforms do you find most beneficial in getting the word out for your books?

JJ: Facebook and Instagram seem best for promoting my work.

LL: Tell us about your writing process. Do you need complete silence or do you work with music? Do you have a little drink while writing or is smoking your thing? Give us the skinny.

JJ: I keep a little spiral notebook with me at all times and write whenever and wherever I can—at work, while driving, at home. I transfer much of what I scratch down later to files in my laptop. I drink gallons of hot Irish tea and eat bags of pretzels mainly. (I don’t drink or smoke). Each of my novels has a soundtrack, and I include music (and food!) in every one.

LL: What does your writing nook look like? If you could make it into anything you wanted, what would that look like?

JJ: I write on an 1898 Campaign desk that has slots and shelves and a slide-out board for my laptop. I surround myself with pictures of my sons and have natural oils, watercolors, and lithographs on my walls. My dog, Lovie the Wonder Mutt (a 10-year-old boxer/Labrador), is usually at my feet.

LL: What was your editing process like?

JJ: When I was with Kensington Publishing, my agent, editor, and a copy editor hacked at my work. Now, only I edit my work, but I have a great deal of experience in editing after 33 years teaching college and high school English and editing 100+ novels, mostly from first-time authors.

 

LL: Please give other indie writers 3 tips/tricks that you learned and used during your writing career.

JJ: 1) Get it down on the page, and don’t expect perfection until much later. Spew. Vomit. Fill the page. Only then will you have anything to work with.

2) Make time to write and stick to a schedule.

3) Use pen and paper often. Writing is more visceral and real that way.

LL: Share one unique thing you’ve done to market your book?

JJ: I used to make ten dozen chocolate chip cookies for my signings. Folks like to eat and talk literature.

LL: Tell the readers the one resource you can’t live without as a writer?

JJ: In the old days, it was an old Roget’s thesaurus and a 1950 edition of the Oxford English Dictionary. Now, it’s the Internet, this generation electronic Library of Alexandria. I enjoy reading Yelp reviews!

LL: Do you use an outline when writing and do you stick to it?

JJ: I outline the entire novel first so I know how my book is going to end. It is general enough that I can deviate at will and go off on tangents.

LL: Will you be participating in any conferences this year? If so, which ones and when?

JJ: I will not be traveling any time soon. I exhausted myself last year with seven different events. 

LL: What are you currently working on?

JJ: SOMEBODY TO LOVE. (I’d give you more information, but it’s a work-in-progress)

Well, that brings us to the close of another episode of Couch Convos. Be sure to check out The Date and the rest of JJ’s catalog. For more information about JJ Murray hit him up on his social media accounts.

©JJ Murray used with permission

Amazon Author Page: JJ Murray 

Website: JohnJeffreyMurray.com

Facebook: @authorjjmurray

Instagram: @a3jmurray

Couch Convos w/ Lisa W. Tetting – LAS

Welcome to the November episode of Couch Convos! Today we welcome new author LAS to talk about her book Chocolate Solstice. Let’s get started.

 

Part I

©LAS used with permission

LWT: Welcome to Couch Convos! Let’s get started. How did you get the idea to write
“Chocolate Solstice”?

LAS: The idea for Chocolate Solstice came from the concept of how we sometimes get in our own way of finding love, especially when dealing with issues from our past.

LWT: That is certainly what happened with this couple. In this book Daniel is such a complicated, but relatable guy. Can you take us through the process you went through to develop his character?

LAS: I wanted Daniel to be almost too good to be true. An attractive, educated, business minded, young man with commitment to family and his community. But I also wanted his secret to always be just under the surface, gnawing at him periodically. I wanted him to be attractive, someone that readers could visualize, smell and feel. After his aesthetic, I began to work on his love for his family (his mom and grandmother). I also wanted to show ways in which these women coddled him to some degree. Lastly, I focused on how his secret, which ties into his expectation of women, caused a conflict in his pursuit of Asha.

LWT: You certainly did a nice job of relaying your message. When I read the book, I felt as if each Asha struggled with intimacy issues. Why was this such an important element in the story line? 

LAS: I thought Asha’s struggle was important to expose, because as black women I think we yearn for intimacy at our core level. I feel like we need it. When you’re trying to be a strong, independent and fearless woman, sometimes intimacy doesn’t have a place there. Asha avoided vulnerability and intimacy, as many of us do. In doing that, she risked her opportunity at a meaningful relationship.

LWT: When I write I have a picture in my head of who I want my characters to look like. Who were the muses for Daniel and Asha?

LAS: For Daniel, a muse that comes to mind is model/actor Travis Cure. My visualization for Asha was a curly haired Elle Varner. I just added light eyes for Asha.

LWT: I absolutely loved Daniel! What is your favorite thing about him? 

LAS: My favorite thing about Daniel was his sweet relationship with his grandmother.

LWT: Do you identify with one character more than the others in the book?

LAS: I identified mostly with Maw, the grandmother. She did not play when it came to her Daniel. I see myself, my mom and aunts in her in terms of how we handle our sons.

LWT: Why was it important for Daniel to be so close to the women in his life?

LAS: Daniel had difficulty with issues of abandonment, though he tried his hardest to keep it under wraps. Because of this, he needed the women in his life to belong to him. He never really pursued this feeling outside of his mother and grandmother until he met Asha.

LWT: The book focuses on a couple, who in my opinion, ride hard for each other. They may have a tiff or two, but in the end they know they can depend on each other. Why do you feel it is important, especially for black women to read about these types of relationships?

LAS: I feel its important because women can become hopeless when looking for or waiting on a good man. It may seem unrealistic at times. Even though they were both flawed, as we all are, it is possible to have a loving and supportive relationship. The road may be a little bumpy getting there, but it is possible.

LWT: I love that. Now, tell me who are some of your favorite writers and why?

LAS: Some of my favorite writers include Margaret Johnson Hodge, Bernice McFadden, Carl Weber and RM Johnson.

Part II

LWT: How do you choose your book covers and who does them?

LAS: This was my first novel and I was stuck for some time when trying to decide on a book cover. Once I got the colors and idea into my head, I sent some mock-ups to a photographer friend who agreed to shoot the cover. Then I bribed another friend with free lunch to pose for the cover. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to create the cover which I still get compliments on.

LWT: Well kudos to both. They did an amazing job.  Do you use social media and does it help with sales?

LAS: I don’t know how I would have gotten over 10 books sold without social media. It has helped me immensely with sales and marketing. Social media has also helped me to network with other authors and readers such as yourself. I think social media is a
Godsend for indie authors.

LWT: Tell us about your writing process. Do you need complete silence or do you listen to music? Do you have a drink or write sober? Etc. Inquiring minds want to know.

LAS: I enjoy writing to music it helps the flow of the story. Many times when I’m stuck I like to play music that I feel reflects the scene. Sometimes I’ll even take a dance break to clear my head and then sit back down to write. I’ve written while sipping and also while sober. But there’s always a drink involved whether its water, coffee, wine or liquor. I remember writing confrontational scenes while sipping on some wine, when I went back to read through, I had a good laugh.

LWT: What challenges have you faced as a new indie writer?

LAS: As a new indie author, I’m often hesitant about promoting my work. I want people to know about it, read and enjoy it, review it, tell a friend – all that good stuff. But, I never want to shove my work down someone’s throat. So, I’m trying to not to cross that fine line.

©LAS used with permission

LWT: Have you or do you plan to attend any book fairs, conventions or signings? If so, which ones?

LAS: I attended Well Read Black Girl Fest in September and it was such a fulfilling experience. The energy of the brilliant beautiful women there and the gems they shared were incredible.

LWT: How did you choose your pen name?

LAS: My initials make up my pen name and is pronounced L. A. S. Some people have referred to me as LAS, I don’t mind.

LWT: Please give other indie writers 3 tips that you learned that help you to be successful?

LAS: 1)Push through that first draft. It will not be perfect but don’t give up.
2) Write anywhere and any time you can. Its hard to set aside time with life, family, etc. Keep a small notebook with you, write on your phone, tablet, whatever.
3) Invest in an editor. An editor is necessary, period. It will be the best money you spend in your journey to becoming published.

LWT: Those are all good tips. Share one unique thing you’ve done to market your

©LAS used with permission

book?

LAS: I’ve invested in promo items such as t-shirts, hats, tote bags, etc. to market the book. I wear them and I’ve given them to friends and family to wear and it sparks interest. When someone asks “What is Chocolate Solstice?” it opens up opportunity to promote the book.

LWT: Tell the readers the one resource you can’t live without as a writer?

LAS: Google Docs. Poor docs, its overloaded with drafts, rewrites, fallen plot twists, every and any thing pertaining to the story line. I wrote most of my first draft on my phone using Google Docs. It was easy to have my work saved and accessible to me once I had the time to actually sit at a computer and write.

LWT: What does success look like for you?

LAS: Success to me is someone saying to me (in reviewing, commenting, inboxing, DMing, texting, etc.) “Oh my God, this book!”

LWT: Well, please consider this book a success! What’s up next for you?

LAS: A prequel or sequel but its still brewing.

Well, I for one can’t wait! That brings us to the close of another episode of Couch Convos. Be sure to check out Chocolate Solstice. For more information about LAS hit her up on her social media accounts.

Facebook: @authorlas

Instagram: @author.las

Twitter: @theauthorlas

Indie Shine – My Chérie Amour

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to ‘Shine’ the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome author My Chérie Amour.

Bio 

Chérie is a writer, an author, a Early Childhood Educator and a Adjunct Instructor. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, she currently resides in Southern California.

Q&A

Tell us about your most recent work. 

My most recent work is posting about love (people, places and things) on my blog. I am also currently working on writing the third book in the series of my dating experiences. It a work-in-progress. So, stay tuned!

Who inspires you? 

It’s not who inspires me, but what inspires me. Everything anywhere anytime can inspire me on any given day. It’s called life.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time? 

My masterpiece is my first book entitled YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME?!; Stop Playin’ or Play Right. I consider it my masterpiece because it was originally just something to check off from my bucket list and now it’s become a number one best seller! YESSS. Lol I think it will always be my masterpiece! Wink. Wink.

What is your motto in life?

My motto in life is “Take care of YOU.” YOU are the most important person in your life, so take care of YOU.

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine

achieving, but would love for it to come true. 

Ooooh! My wildest dream?! The one thing I cannot imagine achieving, but would LOVE to come true is my books becoming a huge play!!! I see me having a huge book signing from my favorite restaurant, Killer Shrimp, serving my favorites during the cocktail hour. Then, serving popcornopolus, my favorite snack!, during the premiere of opening night of the play. During the Meet&Greet afterwards I would sell and sign autographed copies of my first book and pose for pictures until dawn. Lol That would be surreal!!!!

What is your favorite quote? 

My favorite quote is from Ru Paul. “If you can’t love yourself, how in the hell can you love somebody else?!”, or something along those lines.

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for?

I just want to be remembered. The good, the bad and everything in between! The fact that my name is on your mind or spoken out of your mouth, well then mission accomplished. You remembered me!!

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

The book series is what I am currently working on writing. To be continued. So, please keep in touch with me through social media!!!

Where can fans purchase your work?

You can purchase my work at Amazon.com

Social Media

Author Websites: www.mycherieamour.me

www.allinthenameoflove.com 

Blogs:

mycherieamourblog

www.bloglovin.com/@cheriemiamour

Facebook: @Chérie MiAmour 

Pinterest: @authorcherie

Please reach out to me! I would love to hear from you!

Indie Shine – Author L. Loren

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to ‘Shine’ the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome author L. Loren!

Bio:

L. Loren is a former call center supervisor currently based in Upstate, SC with her loving and supportive husband. Growing up the youngest of seven in a small town in North Carolina, she embraced her love of reading which helped to develop her imagination. Her desire to write lay dormant for years until she found the courage to look within and her passion could no longer be ignored.

Q & A

What do you do and Why do you do it?

I am the writer of LoveRotica, love stories with an edge of sexy. I write sexy stories because I am compelled to change people’s way of thinking. My main characters are strong, women of color who have the capacity to love and are not afraid to be soft and vulnerable within their relationships.

Tell us about your most recent work.

My latest novel is a sexy adult contemporary fairy tale called Egyptian Nights. The main character Egypt Wilson is a young woman who was cursed by her other’s dying declaration that she was unworthy of love, labeling her a whore. Her life since then was spent avoiding relationships with men, only using them for one thing.

Then she meets Harper Beckmann who has the ability to see through her mask and heal her heart. He refuses her offer for a one night stand and instead offers her a relationship. Only problem is Egypt doesn’t do relationships. Egypt, aided by her Naughty Fairy Godmother, soon finds that Beckmann may be the one man who can break her curse, should she decide to let him in.

The story is like most fairy tales and ends with a happily ever after, but you’ll have to read it to see just what that is. This is a stand-alone novel – the first in the Triple Threat Series about triplet sisters and their journey to self discovery. I am currently working on Book 2, which will be out this summer and Book 3 is scheduled for a fall release.

Who inspires you? 

I am inspired by many people. As a writer I sit and observe. I keep an eye out for odd ball people who are outside of the realm of what society considers “normal”. I like to root for the underdog and that inspires me.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time?

I don’t think my masterpiece has been written yet. I am constantly improving as a writer so will there ever be one? I don’t know. I love all of my book babies, but I have a special place in my heart for The Layover, which is my first LoveRotica book.

What is your motto in life?

“Love is my religion”

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true. 

My wildest dream would be turning my books into blockbuster movies staring A-list celebrities and riding that wave of success to lead to owning my own lingerie line.

What is your favorite quote?

My favorite quote is by my favorite poet, Maya Angelou –

That quote speaks to me each day, reminding me to be humble and see people individually for who they are and treat them as I would like to be treated. Though I never had the privilege of meeting her, her words made me feel proud of who I am and loved!

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for? 

I would like to be remembered for making people feel loved.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

My next project is Book 2 in the Triple Threat Series, Model Behavior. It is a stand – alone sexy contemporary adult fairy tale all about Kenya Wilson and her journey to discover who she really is. She spent most of her life being the referee between her sisters and as Brian’s girlfriend. She finally starts living for herself and finds that things are not always as they seem and sometimes the people you thought were on your side, are the ones you can’t trust. I am still writing it, but I plan to release it this summer.

Where can fans purchase your work? 

My books are available on Amazon.

Social Media

Author Website/Blog: http://llorenwriter.wordpress.com

Facebook: l.lorenwriter

Twitter: @rebirthoflisa

Instagram: @rebirthoflisa

Pinterest: @rebirthoflisa

Goodreads: lloren

Amazon Author Page: L. Loren

If you are an indie artist, writer, photographer, etc and would like us to shine a light on your work, drop us a line here.

Indie Shine – Michael Lackey

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to “Shine” the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome author Michael Lackey!

Bio:

©Mike Lackey used with permission

A believer in things most found silly, Michael Lackey (1973-) has always been a dreamer. He loved to pretend as a child in the forests of Alabama. Michael would find himself in a land of monsters where he was the only one who could save the world from utter destruction. In his free time, Michael would map out bike courses and fantasize about becoming the next big Hollywood stuntman. With the stunts complete, Michael would raise his sword high and proclaim himself the slayer of the mystical beasts plaguing his land. Like most over imaginative children, real life set in for Michael. Work. Adulthood. Family. He never really grew out of his imagination, but rather suppressed it to the point of monotony. Now in his forties, Michael’s stories and love for fantasy come alive on the pages of The Bad Seed. Join Michael on his fantasy-filled quest to tell the story of the brave Zachery Morely and his adventures on Amundiss. Michael is now signed by The Polyetnic Publishing Company, LLC. Find them at www.thepolyetnic.com

Q&A

What do you do and Why do you do it?

I am a playground builder by day and fantasy/sci-fi author by night. I love taking pen and paper and creating worlds and bringing my stories to life.

Tell us about your most recent work. 

I am currently working on a steampunk inspired novel titled The Key of Knowledge. It is the first in my Keys of Lazarus series. We all know the story of Lazarus from the bible, died and brought back to life four days later by Jesus. Do you know what happened after that? The death angel was inside the body of Lazarus claiming his prize when the breath of life was breathed back into him. A battle ensued for poor Lazarus. Of course, Christ won and kicked out the death angel, but not before a piece of the angel was left inside him.

This piece, this Shadow Gem can grant power over death… immortality. The priests that were there for the family witnessed the Resurrection, and they were worried the people would start to believe in Jesus with Lazarus being a walking example of his power. they set out to have Lazarus killed, get rid of the evidence. This infuriated the death angel, Lazarus was his prize and they had no right to kill him. The angel placed a curse on the five priests and sentenced them to watch over the keys that will unlock the power left behind inside the body of Lazarus.

Flash forward to the year 1854 when Ruina Baxter and her husband were on an archaeologist dig site in Constantinople when they find the body of Lazarus. When Ruina pulled the Shadow Gem from his corpse it granted her the power of immortality and to control the dead. The year is now 2058 and Ruina, who now demands to be called the Countess, is in full control of the world and all its citizens. The only way to stop her is to collect the five keys of Lazarus and make her mortal once more.

Who inspires you? 

J.R.R Tolkien of course, C.S. Lewis and Rick Riordan

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time? 

My first book, The Bad Seed: Battle for the Heavens

What is your motto in life? 

Work smart, not hard.

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true. 

To retire and be able to write full time.

What is your favorite quote?

Mine- “The Light shines brightest, when the world is at its darkest.”

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for? 

My storytelling.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

The Key of Knowledge will be available fall of 2017

Where can fans purchase your work? 

Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, booksamillion.com, audible.com, iTunes, book depository, and a lot of Barnes and Noble local stores

Social Media

©Mike Lackey used with permission

Instagram: @mikelackey23

Twitter: @supes23

Amazon Author Page: Michael Lackey

Couch Convos w/ Lisa W. Tetting – Joslyn Westbrook

Welcome to another episode of Couch Convos! Today we welcome new author Joslyn Westbrook to talk about her book The 52 Week Chronicles! Let’s get started.

Part I

©Joslyn Westbrook used with permission

LWT: This being your first novel, what inspired you to start writing?

JW: I’ve always had a desire to write, since grade school. English and Journalism were my majors in college, but “life” took me in a totally different path. It was not until I lost my mom, that I realized life is too short to not live out your dreams, and I began writing as a mere hobby.

LWT: I totally understand that. I lost my mom recently and it is a wake up call. Why did you choose the “Chick Lit” style?

 JW: I was on a business trip several years ago, when I picked up a novel by Sophie Kinsella, called Can You Keep A Secret? It was then that I fell in love with the Chick Lit genre. When I started writing, I felt Chick Lit was such a natural way for me to bring my characters to life.

LWT: What is your favorite “Chick Lit” book? Is it safe to say you’re a fan of Sophie Kinsella?

JW: Anything by Sophie Kinsella would be my favorite in the Chick Lit genre. I am a total fangirl!

LWT: Your main character in your book “The Fifty-Two Week Chronicles”, Penelope is a bona fide foodie. Do you have any experience with food?

JW: Actually I do have a ton of experience with food. For the last twenty years, I have been a Business Consultant to restaurant owners, helping them operate successful restaurants.

LWT: Wow, that sounds like a fun job. I’m sure you run into some interesting people. Who was your muse for Penelope?

JW: The initial inspiration for Penelope was based on the fact that in real life, I would have loved being a Food Critic. I am a crazy foodie and what could be better than combining a love for food and a love for writing?

LWT: If this book was made into a movie, who would play Jonathan? I absolutely adored him.

JW: Without a doubt, Jonathan’s role would be played by Taylor Kinney (with dark hair) from the TV show Chicago Fire. I think he would play the perfect Jonathan Knight.

LWT: Yum! Speaking of yummy, how did you come up with the menu for the pop-up restaurant, and do you have the recipes?

JW: The Pop-up restaurant menu came to life by watching many Food Network shows. I made notes of the type of food I envisioned Jonathan to be an expert at and was lucky enough to finalize the menu over the course of a weekend of Food Network binge watching. I do have the recipes and am strongly considering adding them to the back of the novel…or maybe as a novel bonus.

LWT: Do you put a little of yourself in any of your characters?

JW: That’s a great question. I do believe parts of my personality are sprinkled here and there…especially in some of the dialogue.

LWT: I am dying to know if Sebastian will get his own book.

JW: I love Sebastian! He was a fun character to write and many readers want more of him. I am not sure if he will get his very own book, but he is making a return in the next book in the series called A Cupcake and a Gentleman, which is set in San Francisco, CA. I am happy I was able to bring him back as he helps in sister Hannah with her bakery business.

LWT:  Who is your favorite writer?

JW: I have so many favorites and I draw inspiration from all of them: Sophie Kinsella, Susan Mallery, Candace Bushnell, Plum Sykes, Jennifer Crusie, Nora Roberts, Danielle Steel…to name a few.

Part II

LWT:  Who designed your book cover and how did you come up with the concept for it?

JW: Pro_ebookcovers designed the current cover, but that is not the original cover. The original cover was created by a lovely designer from 99Designs. I was prepared to use that cover, until I discovered the girl with the pink hat and instantly saw Penelope. So I had the entire concept redesigned and fell in love with the pink cover (which also matched my brand colors). I still have the rights to the original cover design, so I will use that in a limited edition paperback giveaway very soon.

LWT: We’ll be sure to keep an eye out for the contest. Which social media platforms do you find most beneficial in getting the word out for your book?

JW: Social Media is a great way to reach potential readers and I have found FaceBook and Twitter to be the most effective way to get the word out about The Fifty-Two Week Chronicles.

LWT:  Tell us about your writing process. Do you need complete silence or do you work with music? Do you have a little drink while writing or is smoking your thing? Give us the skinny.

JW: I have a full-time job, and am a wife and a mom. I have to be super creative in how I squeeze in time to write. So my process usually consists of getting up at 4am to write before I have to get my daughter ready for school and myself ready for work. I also wrote all of The Fifty-Two Week Chronicles on my iPhone…using a writing app. This allowed me to write wherever and whenever I had free time, even if it was only 10 mins on line at the grocery store, on a lunch break, while sitting in traffic (lol), or late at night before bed. I do not typically drink, but I think I may have had a glass of wine when I wrote the sexy scenes in the book. 🙂

LWT:  Girl, you wrote that on your iPhone? Dang. Well, what does your writing nook look like? If you could make it into anything you wanted, what would that look like?

JW: I have a loft-style office that I created specifically for writing. It has a cozy fireplace, and is away from any distractions. But, I never use it for writing! If I had the opportunity, I would have a room with my desk facing a huge bay window, overlooking the ocean. That is my dream writer’s nook. Dreams do come true, right?

LWT: Oh yeah. I’m a big believer of dreams. What was your editing process like?

JW: I edit as I write. And I do not move on to the next chapter until I have chosen all of the “right” words. It can take a week for me to complete a single chapter, sometimes. I have two beta-readers who I send a chapter at a time to for feedback or suggested revisions to the storyline. After all of that, I send the completed MS to my editor who takes me through two rounds of edits before it’s sent to a proofreader. I love the editing process!

LWT: I can’t say I look forward to editing, but it is necessary. Please give other indie writers 3 tips/tricks that you learned and used during your first writing experience?

JW: Ooooh! Okay three tips:

1)Write what you love to read because it will come more naturally.

2) Do not get discouraged if your friends / family show little interest in your writing.

3) Join writer’s groups because you’ll find writer’s will become your biggest support system when you need it the most.

LWT: Share one unique thing you’ve done to market your book?

JW: I created three book trailers for “fun”, while suffering through episodes of writer’s block. Those trailers had actually been viewed by so many more than I expected, giving the book a great deal of funky exposure.

 

LWT: Funny, I think that’s how I found your book. Tell the readers the one resource you can’t live without as a writer?

JW: I can not live without my writing app, a thesaurus, and Google (haha).

LWT:  All great choices. Do you use an outline when writing and do you stick to it?

JW: I am in no way the type of a person who outlines. I do mentally plan the ending, but I just write and allow the characters to take me where I need to go. Sometimes they do surprise me. Take Jonathan for instance: I had no idea he rode a Harley until that chapter and I was like…what? A Harley? Um, okay.

LWT:  I love it when a character takes over. Do you belong to any writer’s groups or associations? If so, which ones?

JW: As a matter of fact, I just applied to Romance Writers of America and Alliance of Independent Authors. I’m really excited!

LWT: Will you be participating in any conferences this year? If so, which ones and when?

JW: Unfortunately, this year I am so tied up with my job as a Business Consultant, I will not be able to attend any writer’s conferences. However, I plan to attend at least one next year.

LWT:  I love the graphics on your author website. Who designed them for you?

JW: Thank you! I designed my website and most of the graphics are paid licenses of photos from Shutterstock.

LWT: Get out! We need to talk. What are you currently working on?

JW: I am happy to say I am currently working on the next novel in the series that should be released later this year as well as a short story that will be released in July. Yay!!

 

©Joslyn Westbrook used with permission

Joslyn Westbrook has been creating stories since grade school. Her passion for writing often lead to teachers and college professors reading her stories to the class, showcasing her creativity. Putting her writing on hold, Joslyn pursued a career as a Business Consultant as she raised her children. While she enjoyed working with business owners, she craved what she believed to be her true calling—writing. During her free time, Joslyn began writing her romance novel and series of chick-lit style novels to curb her passion for writing. Her work as a Business Consultant has spawned the concept of several characters featured in her books. Joslyn is a self-proclaimed foodie, enjoys shopping, cooking, binge watching shows and movies on Netflix, and spending time with her husband and children at home in sunny California.

Facebook: JoslynWestbrookOfficial 

Twitter: @Joslynauthor

Goodreads: joslynwestbrook

Amazon Author Page

Indie Shine – Yecheilyah Ysrayl

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to “Shine” the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome author Yecheilyah Ysrayl.

©Yecheilyah Ysrayl used with permission

Bio:

Yecheilyah Ysrayl is the author of Young Adult, Black American Literature, and Poetry. The author of eight books (most notably, The Stella Trilogy), Yecheilyah is currently working on her next book series “The Nora White Story”. Renaissance: The Nora White Story Book One is due for release July 15, 2017. Revelation: The Nora White Story Book Two is due for release December of this year. Yecheilyah is also a Blogger and Book Reviewer. Originally from Chicago, IL, she now resides in Shreveport, LA with her husband where she writes full time.

Q & A

What do you do and Why do you do it?

Thank you, Lisa, for having me. I am an Independent Author of Black American Literature, a Poet, Book Reviewer and Blogger. I do what I do because I believe my voice is important to the restoration of truth into the world. I do not write for me alone, but for the lost souls who cannot write. In other words, I speak for the lost sheep. I hope to shine a light on the so-called African American experience, his struggles not just in America but in the world in general and to shed light on why those struggles exist and how to overcome them. I write simply because it’s necessary. I write to restore love back into the hearts of mankind. I write to be unapologetically truthful and fair.

Tell us about your most recent work. 

My most recent work is Book Three in The Stella Trilogy, “The Road to Freedom – Joseph’s Story”. It’s sort of a prequel to Book Two and surrounds the son of Stella from Book Two (granddaughter of Stella from Book One) who passed for white and changed her name to Sidney McNair and raised her children as white. For this, Joseph McNair is unaware of his African American lineage and seeks to discover more about why blacks are treated the way they are in America. After a fight with his brother Edward in his mother’s living room in Book Two, Joseph leaves home. Book Three explores his adventures when he left. With a group of friends, Joseph attempts to travel to Atlanta for an SNCC conference but encounter many trials on the way. They think they are on the road to becoming part of the movement but they are discovering more about themselves. This self-awareness, unknown to them, is their freedom.

Who inspires you? 

I’m not much of an R. Kelly fan, but he is a great writer, lyricists if you will. He has a song, “The World’s Greatest”. In that song is a lyric: “I’m that little bit of hope with my back against the ropes.” I’m not the greatest, but I am inspired by the opportunity to instill hope into the lives of others. It motivates me to motivate others and to have some kind of influence over their lives, however small.

People ask me how I came to be so “put together”. They ask me because after hearing about my life and the things I’ve been through, it’s hard to believe I am the person I am today. I would say it’s not that I am put together, just that I know what it’s like to be broken and to want to cease from existing. I know pain. I also know love, and I believe my ability to still love and to open myself up to be loved has kept me sane. Love inspires me.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time?

I would consider “Beyond the Colored Line”, Book Two in The Stella Trilogy to be my masterpiece, because it challenged people’s concept of race and forced them to think about the role it’s played in our society. It lifted America’s skirt and showed us that her panties hadn’t changed much. She is still the same image of bigotry that she’s always been. But more so than this, it started conversations that surpass Jim Crow and digs deeper into the nationality and culture of a people.

What is your motto in life? 

My motto in life is to “Paint poetic justice against the backdrop of heavy keystrokes”. To paint poetic justice means to use my writing as an underground railroad to freedom. If people can’t be liberated in their own lives, I hope that my books can provide a road-map. Of course, this isn’t easy to do considering the heavy misinformation, deception, and religious ideologies that have enslaved us for so long. These are the heavy keystrokes.

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true.

My wildest dream is to travel the world. I mean the whole world lol. I’d like to start in Egypt and then go on from there. I cannot imagine covering all land but I would love for this to come true.

What is your favorite quote? 

My favorite quote is by George Bernard Shaw, “Progress is impossible without change and those that cannot change their minds cannot change anything”. The mind is the most powerful organ in the human body. Over time it has the ability to correct and re-correct itself. Many people seek change around them, external. They seek to change their living conditions, seek to raise awareness about discrimination and racism. People seek to change all the time and in different forms. These attempts will always fail if a person does not first seek to correct his mind. It’s not always about race and politics. It’s about the way that people think. It reminds me of an African proverb that says “When there’s no enemy within, the enemy outside cannot hurt you.” It’s our perspective. Change the way that you think first and then everything around you changes.

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for? 

I want to be remembered as a servant of the Almighty YAH who loved fiercely, and spoke truthfully for the purpose of changing lives and establishing hope for mankind.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public?

My next project is a two-part series (a duology), Renaissance: The Nora White Story (Book One) and Revelation: The Nora White Story (Book Two). I intended for this to be one novel but I do not like my books to be extremely long so I broke it down into two books. The story is about a young woman who, like many of her time, is not interested in her family’s land and despite graduating High School is not interested in College either. Nora decides she wants to go to New York to be a writer and against her parents’ wishes, she does. She becomes part of The Harlem Renaissance Movement and learns the North is not all it’s cracked up to be. Nora must decide for herself about who she is and what she wants.

Where can fans purchase your work? 

Fans can purchase my work in paperback on my author website or in eBook through my Amazon author page.

Social Media

©Yecheilyah Ysrayl used with permission

Website: yecheilyahysrayl.com

Blog: www.thepbsblog.com

Amazon Author Page: Yecheilyah-Ysrayl

Goodreads Author Page: Yecheilyah_Ysrayl

StumbleUpon: Yecheilyah

Twitter: @ahouseofpoetry

InstaGram: yecheilyah

Linkedin: yecheilyahysrayl

Indie Shine – Dr. KE Garland

In this edition of Indie Shine, a place for rebirthoflisa to “Shine” the spotlight on indie artists, we welcome award winning author Dr. Katherin Garland.

©Dr. Katherin Garland used with permission

Bio:

Dr. Katherin Garland is an award winning writer, whose work has been featured in the South Florida Times, Talking Soup, and For Harriet.

Q & A

What do you do and Why do you do it? 

I write creative nonfiction in order to inspire social change.

Tell us about your most recent work. 

My most recent book is titled, The Unhappy Wife. It is a collection of short stories based on real women’s marriages. Though the stories are inspired by real events, I’ve fictionalized parts of the women’s stories in order to protect their anonymity.

Who inspires you? 

I’m very self-motivated. I’m not inspired by a person, but more so an idea, a concept. I believe that we are all connected and can do whatever we set our minds to. Therefore, my inspiration comes from listening to my inner voice and believing that what I need to actualize those dreams is always within reach.

What do you consider your “Masterpiece” at this time?

A story that I wrote about my father called, “The Transition” is my masterpiece. It is a short story that describes the softening of my heart for a father who, in a sense had abandoned me. I won first place at the Royal Palms Literary Award in Creative Nonfiction for this piece, so at this point, it validates my writing ability.

What is your motto in life?

Anything is possible.

Name your wildest dream. The one you can not imagine achieving, but would love for it to come true. 

I honestly don’t have a wild dream that I cannot imagine achieving 🙂 I believe everything I can think of is possible.

What is your favorite quote? 

When it is all said and done, what would you like to be remembered for?

My hope is that people will remember me for being inspirational, whether it is because of how I lived my life or because of something I wrote.

Tell us about your next project and when will it be available to the public? 

My next project is called Daddy. It is an edited collection of women writers who’ve opened their hearts to talk about their father-daughter relationships. It will be available June 2018.

Where can fans purchase your work?

Fans can buy my work from my website: www.kegarland.com and also Barnes & Noble online.

Social Media

Twitter: kegarland

©Dr. Katherin Garland used with permission

Instagram: kegarland

Facebook: kegarlandwriter

Author Website: kegarland.com

Couch Convos Featuring Author Ronyea Thompson

Welcome to April’s edition of Couch Convos! Today we welcome Ronyea Thompson, author of the popular novel “The Circle”. Let’s get started.

Part I

 LWT: Welcome to Couch Convos. Tell us, how did you get the idea to write “The Circle”?

©Ronyea Thompson used with permission

RT: I have a circle of friends in real life (who are way more conservative than the characters LOL) and since I love to write and play around with characters, I thought it would be cool to draw inspiration from my friends.

LWT: Well, in this book you do have a unique group of friends. Can you take us through the process you went through to develop each character?

RT: Yes…as stated above, the characters were inspired by my circle of friends. And when I say inspired, I mean VERY LOOSELY inspired LOL. All of it is fiction, none of it is real…for example Chantal is inspired by a dear friend of mine. The ONLY similarities they share are that they both live in California and both are dancers. However, my friend in real life is a praise dance and worship leader at her church, and spends days teaching young girls the art of dance via Ballet and Jazz at the Chon Renee Dance Academy in the Bay Area. She has never stripped nor done drugs…but it was fun to play with her character, because there are women who strip, and I wanted to change the stigma a bit.

LWT: When I read the book, I felt as if each one of the main characters struggled with their moral compass. Why was this such an important element in the story line?

RT: Its important to me as a woman to express the struggles we may have in our everyday lives. No one is perfect and we often battle with right and wrong intentions and decisions. I wanted to reference issues like drug use as well as abortions, because those are touchy topics and many people tend to be on one side of the fence when it comes to that. However, no one situation is the same. Just because in real life my “inspired friends” don’t deal with these situations, doesn’t mean others aren’t out there dealing with it, I know a few.

Also, my book is a bit different from a lot of “Urban” novels in the since, I wanted to tell a story with a spiritual undertone. God can use you right where you are. I hope readers walk away with that as well. Being relatable was also very important to me…who can’t deal with feeling stuck in a “job” like Keisha, but really wanting more. Dealing with debt and marital issues are common…also who hasn’t been affected by cancer, be it themselves or a close friend or family member?

 

LWT: When I write, I have a picture in my head of who I want my characters to look like. Who were the muses for the girls?

RT: My real friends…I took some of their physical similarities, and incorporated them into the characters.

 

LWT: What about the men? I know the readers are just salivating to find out who inspired each love interest.

RT: Honestly, the men were just made up, if you can believe that. Again, with the characters of Harvey and LD being not as good, I wanted to show good men too like John, Derrick, and even Big Cody who is a good father.

 

LWT: I have to know, do you identify with one character, more than the others in the book?

RT: Yes, Robin is loosely based on me, with her love of books and being married. However, I’ve never been with a woman.

 

LWT: How did you do your research for the characters, especially CC?

RT: For CC, believe it or not, I asked some of my men friends what happens in strip clubs, and just used my imagination from there.

 

LWT: The book focuses on a group of women who, in my opinion ride hard for each other. They may have a tiff or two, but in the end they know they can depend on each other. Why do you feel it is important, especially for black women to read about these types of relationships?

RT: The ultimate goal for this book is to show a strong, sincere bond of female friends. I believe in today’s world, so much attention is focused on women, especially black women, fighting one another. If you look at reality TV there is a strong presence of black women tearing each other down. We’re not always sleeping with each others man, or jealous, or gossiping about one another. Call me blessed, but I have some awesome friends in my life, that I have had for a very long time. Our friendships are healthy, positive, and supportive, and I feel there are a lot more out there…its just not often told.

 

LWT: Who are some of your favorite writers and why?

RT: It took me a few years (6 to be exact) to write and finalize The Circle. During that time I stopped reading other authors, just so my story would be true to me. I am excited to read some new authors, but I have also enjoyed Terry McMillan, Terri Woods, Mary Monroe, and Rashonda Tate Billingsley to name a few.

Part II

LWT: How do you choose your book covers and who does them?

RT: I knew I wanted sketch drawings. I searched for awhile, before I found @Nataliamadej on Instagram. I reached out to her to do the drawing, and the rest is history. I absolutely love my cover!

 

LWT: So do I. Speaking of Instagram,do you use social media for marketing and does it help with sales?

RT: Yes, I have Facebook and Instagram and I believe it has helped tremendously to get my name and the cover “out there”.

 

LWT: Tell us about your writing process. Do you need complete silence, or do you listen to music? Do you have a drink or write sober? Etc. Inquiring minds want to know.

RT: LOL…no I don’t drink when writing. Sometimes I write with the TV or radio going, and sometimes quiet. Usually, in the evenings though is when I find my groove.

 

LWT: What challenges have you faced as an indie writer?

RT: Oh… where to start? LOL No, ummmm…I haven’t had any MAJOR challenges, other than trying to get the word out that I’m a new author, and receive reviews (hopefully positive ones).

 

LWT: Have you or do you plan to attend any book fairs, conventions or signings? If so, which ones?

RT: Yes, this is all very new for me. But I definitely plan to attend some fairs and conventions in the fall of 2017. I had my first book signing in Oklahoma City in January 2017 and it was a success.

 

LWT: Please give other indie writers 3 tips you’ve learned, that help you to be successful?

1. Stay focused on what you’re doing. What took 6 years for me should have taken 1 (if that) but I wasn’t focused.
2. Be true to yourself. I don’t curse, so I didn’t want profanity in my book. Some people have said they wanted it or missed it when reading, but I had to be true for me. Not everyone will like your work and that okay.
3. All you have to do is start, and the rest will work itself out. Its ok if you don’t know EVERYTHING you need to know about publishing a book. You will learn as you go. I am still learning.

 

LWT: Share one unique thing you’ve done to market your book?

RT: I have done giveaways and book signings. But that’s not so unique…I’ll take ideas if you have any LOL

 

LWT: Keep reading our Couch Convos interviews. I’m sure you’ll learn some great tricks. Tell the readers the one resource you can’t live without as a writer?

RT: My phone! I NEED it, because I can jot down a quick thought, or take a picture of something that might inspire me. I can also Google something real quick if needed.

 

LWT: Smart phones can be great sources of information. What does success look like for you?

RT: For me, success would be having more people reading and liking (and even taking something away) my writings, and one day being able to write as a full-time job.

 

LWT: What’s up next for you? A sequel perhaps?

RT: I have been toying with the idea of a sequel, but I am currently working on a book about 2 sisters. Its been really fun playing with it too.

We look forward to reading it too. Well, that’s it another Couch Convos in the can. ‘The Circle’ is available on Amazon  and Kindle. Click here to purchase. You’ll be glad you did.

Ronyea Thompson currently lives in Southaven, Mississippi with her husband and two

©Ronyea Thompson used with permission

children. Originally from Oklahoma City, she attended Langston University. While there she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Education. She has always had a love for reading and storytelling, and shortly after graduation she drew inspiration from her own circle of friends who loosely inspired The Circle, her debut novel.

To connect with her please click the links below to her Social Media sites.

Instagram: @itsme_ronyea or @thecirclenovel

Facebook: http://facebook.com/thecirclenovel