The Joneses by Shelia Goss - Blog Tour

7 Questions with Shelia M. Goss and Giveaway

Shelia M. Goss is a national bestselling author and a screenwriter. The Joneses is her seventeenth book in print.

Where are you from and what jumpstarted your writing career?

I am from Louisiana – home of good food and good people (smile). I’m also an alumni of Southern University. I’ve been writing since I was 9 years old. When I was in elementary school, my teachers submitted my poems to Seedlings. In school, I’ve been on the yearbook staff, newspaper, etc. I decided to pursue writing as a career back in 1997. My first book outside of school was actually a collection of poems. It was called Embraced by Love – The Relationship.

Writing was always something that I wanted to do, but I originally had planned on waiting until I retired. After losing my dad and hearing of Princess Diana’s death, it dawned on me that life was too short and I shouldn’t wait to pursue my dreams. So, while I was still working, I would write at night, during my break, at lunchtime, etc. When the right opportunity came, it was just the right time to go ahead and put everything I had into it.

What genre(s) do you write?

I write in multiple genres: women’s fiction, romance, Christian fiction, suspense, young adult, etc.

What is your favorite sort of character?

One that is flawed. No one’s perfect in real life, so the characters in my books aren’t either. They have issues just like a friend, a co-worker or a stranger on the street would have.

What's something about yourself that readers may not know? 

I love to play spades and dominoes. I'm a Virgo and Prince is my all time favorite music artist.

Were there things from “your world” incorporated into this storyline?

I don’t write about my real life. All of my books are fiction; any resemblance to anyone real is purely a coincidence.

What words of advice would you give an aspiring writer?

The best advice I could give an aspiring writer is to write, write, write. Write a complete manuscript, revise, join networking groups and research. Google is a writer’s best friend. When asking questions to other authors, be specific. A generic question like “how can I get my book published?” will not yield you the response that you want. Why? Because there’s no magic formula to getting your book published, but yet, there are many books written on the subject.  Asking specific questions will show that you’ve taken the time to do your research and possibly read some of those books or articles and that you’re serious about the craft of writing.

What's next for Shelia Goss?

2014 is off to a good start. I have several pending projects that I hope to finalize in the first quarter. I'm working on a couple of new books as well as writing a couple of screenplays.  Thirsty-The Movie that's based on one of my original screenplays has a Facebook page. To keep up with the process of what's going on with the movie, be sure to "like" the page: https://www.facebook.com/theThirstyMovie

To keep up with all of my projects, be sure to bookmark my website www.sheliagoss.com.

About The Joneses:

Keeping up with the Joneses isn’t all it’s made out to be. In this intriguing novel full of drama and plot twists, one family tries to hold on to their “perfect” life before their secrets, lies, and scandals are exposed.

On the outside, the Joneses seem like the ideal family: Royce Jones, a funeral home mogul, and his wife, Lexi, are parents to Charity, Hope, and Lovie—and everybody wants to be them. But it’s true that money can’t buy happiness, and the Joneses are harboring secrets that can’t stay hidden forever…It’s only a matter of time before the Joneses’ perfect life goes spinning out of control. 

Order your copy of THE JONESES from Simon & Schuster  or purchase from other online retailers such as:  Amazon and Barnes & Noble:  and IndieBound

Available in stores everywhere on February 18, 2014.

More About the Author:  Shelia Goss writes in multiple genres. USA Today says, “Goss has an easy, flowing style with her prose…” She's received many accolades in her career, including being a finalist in the mystery category for the 2013 AA Literary Award Show and a 2012 Emma Award Finalist. Her books have been on several best sellers lists, such as: Essence Magazine, Dallas Morning News and Black Expressions Book Club. Shelia loves to hear from readers so feel free to contact her via her website: www.sheliagoss.com or follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sheliagoss or Twitter: www.twitter.com/sheliamgoss.

THE JONESES GIVEAWAY

Lexi Jones, one of the main characters, from THE JONESES loves her handbags so it’s just befitting that the grand prize be a handbag.  Contest ends on February 25, 2014.

GRAND PRIZE:

One (1) random entrant will receive a small Coach handbag {Retail value: $188.00, 10 3/4″(L) x 7″(H) x 3 1/4″(W)} and Bath & Body Works minatures (Retail value: $19.75)

RUNNER UP:

One (1) random entrant will receive an autographed copy of Montana’s Way.

10 ENTRANTS:

Ten (10) random entrants will receive the electronic version of the book Hollywood Deception.

Open to U.S. & Canada residents only. Avoid where prohibited by law.

To enter please use the rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Stepping Down Virtual Book Tour with Michelle Stimpson

About The Book

Mark has been pastoring New Vision church for six years now, and all his hard work is about to pay off as the church approaches mega-church status. But while Mark has been busy building the church, his own household has been crumbling to pieces. After ignoring divine guidance, Mark finds himself caught up in the appearance of a scandal that threatens to tear the church apart. And his wife’s secrets only add insult to near-fatal injury.

Sharla would have done just about anything to be a mother…and, actually, she did. She was willing to pay the price for her mistakes, but she never dreamed someone else might have to suffer instead. How close can she come to confessing her past without jeopardizing her future?

Stepping Down is the eighth full-length novel from National Bestselling Author Michelle Stimpson. As the granddaughter of a pastor and the great-granddaughter of a bishop, she explores a conflict many spiritual leaders still encounter today. Readers will enjoy this fast-paced, hard-hitting novel that addresses the ageless question: How can a man run the church if he can’t run his own household?

  About the Author

Michelle Stimpson is an author, a speaker, and an educator who received her Bachelor of Science degree from Jarvis Christian College in 1994.  She earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2002.  She has had the pleasure of teaching elementary, middle, and high school as well as training adults.

In addition to her work in the field of education, Michelle ministers through writing and public speaking. Her works include the highly acclaimed Boaz Brown, Divas of Damascus Road (National Bestseller), and Falling Into Grace, which has been optioned by Paulist Productions for a movie of the week.  She has published several short stories for high school students through her educational publishing company, Right Track Academic Support Services, at www.wegottaread.com.

Michelle serves in women's ministry at her home church, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. She also ministers to women and writers through her blog.  Michelle  regularly speaks at special events and writing workshops sponsored by churches, schools, book clubs, and educational organizations. The Stimpsons are proud parents of two young adults and one crazy dog.

Find Michelle online at:

Twitter link www.twitter.com/stimpsontweets
Facebook link www.facebook.com/michelle.stimpson2

WEBSITE, EMAIL

Email: stimpson.michelle@gmail.com
Website:  www.MichelleStimpson.com

BLOG:

WE GOTTAREAD  

www.wegottaread.com

Order a copy

Amazon ebook

Amazon book

Tour Schedule: http://wnlbooktours.com/michelle-stimpson/

A Good Excuse To Be Bad Blog Tour - Day One

About the Author

Miranda Parker is the author of the Evangeline Crawford Bounty Hunter Series. After graduating from college, she began working as a features editor for various magazines and spent many years as a publicist for national recording artists, actors, ministers, and authors. However, writing fun, feisty, redemptive bad girl gone good stories is her passion. She resides with her family in Georgia near a horse ranch and her daughter’s Girl Scout Troop. On a perfect day she can be found curled up with a good book or in a movie theater with a bucket of popcorn.

Visit the author online at http://www.mirandaparker.com/.

List your published books.

• Sistahfaith Anthology (Simon & Schuster, 2010)

• A Good Excuse to Be Bad (Kensington, 2011)

Which book did you find the hardest to birth?

My next release Someone Bad and Something Blue which releases in July 2012 was my hardest to write. My stories are pretty big as far as story plot points. Because it’s romantic adventure I have to accomplish two things in the story. When I wrote A Good Excuse to Be Bad I knew how the series would begin and end, but the stories in the middle that will drive the series I didn’t know what would happen there. On top of that my editor Selena wanted me to put a cliffhanger on the end of A Good Excuse to Be Bad. That cliffhanger was the catalyst for Book Two and Book Three, so connecting the dots was hard. I rewrote chapter one fifteen times. Each chapter was different from the first.

Which book is your current favorite?

I think most authors would say the book they are currently working on, because you grow as a writer. I love A Good Excuse to Be Bad. I love the idea of a feisty female lead who falls for the worst person at the worst time in her life and then have to honor her responsibilities as a young mom at the same time. This book has to be my favorite, because it’s what sold Kensington on the entire series. So I’m writing Book 3, which I need you all to help me with a title. It is messy, and Angel has put herself in a pickle that is so much fun and a bit scary to write.

How would you describe your writing style?

My writing style is a Catch 22. You either love it or you don’t. I write fast paced novels and I use pitch, diction, and sentence structure to accomplish that. Sometimes it comes across choppy, which is what I want. I want readers to feel the chaos and confusion of certain moments. The best way to do that is playing with sentence structure and pitch.

My writing influences are Chuck Palahniuk, Edgar Allan Poe, Thomas Hardy, Zora Neale Hurston, William Faulkner, Nella Larsen, Walter Mosley and Sydney Sheldon, so that should tell you my writing style is unique.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind?

I can’t write a scene unless I have the write music that fits the mood. I have a playlist for A Good Excuse To Be Bad you can hear on my Facebook Wall. Hit the Vevo Tab.

There is some rock music on there, Aaliyah is a major influence for Angel’s character. One Republic, Adele, Sade…it’s sensual, adult, not dirty, dark, uplifting. I am a Christian music publicist so I have from traditional gospel Mahalia Jackson to contemporary Christian Natalie Grant also on the playlist as well.

Tell us anything about you as a writer that you think might be interesting or unusual.

I wrote the argument scenes just after I had an argument with my boyfriend or my daughter’s father. I channel those emotions into my story. So if Angel is crying, than I was crying when I wrote it.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

Surrender to your gift by becoming a better steward of your talent. Take writing classes to learn craft. Write every day to exercise the craft. Join writer’s groups to motivate, inspire and champion you when you don’t feel like it. Realize that as African Americans it was once illegal for us to read or write. In my state less than sixty years ago our grandparents had to leave school at sixth grade. It is a privilege to write and read. Let’s respect that and do those who died for our right to read and write proud. Let’s write the best stories that can both entertain and inspire our world.

Writers are often encouraged to write what they know. Have you found that to be the case with your writing?

No. No one wants to read a novel about German church architecture. Lol. That’s what I know like I know I have five fingers. I think you should write what keeps you up at night. That is what you know and your readers can relate to. Now the story that you pull together to address that nighttime haunt can be whatever makes you excited and happy about. Because you will have to spend many hours planted in a seat in front of a computer/laptop. If what excites you is a bail recovery agent hanging in Atlanta clubs then write about that. Just make sure that this bail recovery agent shares your heart.

About the Book

Smart gorgeous and too tough for her own good, bail recovery agent and single mom Evangeline Crawford moved to the burbs for a quiet life. Fortunately, it’s not turning out that way…

Angel has to admit she’s feeling restless. The only excitement in her life is her schoolgirl crush on the town’s new pastor, Justus-too-Hot-to-be-Holy Morgan. But a fateful encounter and a job gone wrong at Club Night Candy in Underground Atlanta is about to change all that…Soon, Angel’s trying to save her divazilla twin sister from her big mouth and a scandalous murder charge, and probing a church cover-up–with none other than Justus by her side. But Angel has one more pressing concern; will Bella be ready for kindergarten? Only time will tell for this bad girl gone good whose days are once again far from boring–and hopefully far from numbered…

Book Trailer

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, BooksaMillion.com

For More Information

Visit the author online at http://www.mirandaparker.com/.

Visit blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/AGoodExcuseToBeBadBlogTour

By The Grace by Jessica T. Rogers

About The Author

Jessica T. Rogers has wanted nothing more than to write her entire life. At an early age, she drew her inspiration to write short stories from children’s books graduating to romance novels and Christian novels. She temporarily put her dream on hold to work as a journalist and raise her family. After allowing her stories to sit on her computer for years, she finally decided to self publish her first novel. She recently re-dedicated her life to the Lord, making a personal vow to serve God by sharing the gospel through her novels. Her first novel, By the Grace, was published under her self publishing company, Way of Grace Media, in December 2010. Jessica is currently working on her next project, The Conversation, to be released in late 2011.


Q&A with Jessica:
What inspired you to write? I have been writing since I learned how to put words together as a child. I learned how to use quotation marks in elementary school by mimicking Beverly Cleary. Writing is all I ever wanted to do. I love it. This is a dream come true!

Will you write more books? Absolutely! I am currently working on some projects. I am expected to release my next novel, The Conversation, this year.

Who is your favorite author? I just like a good book. I can’t pick a favorite. There are so many fabulous writers out there.

What are you reading now? I try to read the Bible from cover to cover every year. And every year, I find something new. Plus, I have to read it for research for another project. But when I need to get into another world, there’s always Terry McMillan.

What puts you in the mood to write? Anything can trigger it. I have been on the Interstate and had an idea. I would pull over, jot it down and keep rolling. When I write, I like a quiet area, preferably outside.

This is your first published work. Anything you plan to do differently the next time? Yes. I am learning a lot with this project. There is so much I want to say. I have so many ideas in my head. I have learned not to try to say it all at once…just pace myself and allow the story to flow.

What are your writing goals? What are you trying to accomplish? I am not in this to make a name for myself, which is one reason why I choose to use a pen name. I feel as if I have finally found the truth about the Bible and God. I feel as though I am closer to Him than I have ever been. And when you feel this good, you want to share it! That’s what I want to do. If these books can reach just one person, than I am satisfied.

About The Book

Mary is a local adult porn star looking for a way to finally tame her childhood demons born from childhood sexual abuse. She abandoned her church and her family to seek fortune and fame in adult films. She settled into a world filled with sex, drugs and money. But after her abuser dies, Mary questions her chosen path. She comes to a crossroads when she meets Derek, a young new pastor of a church in her neighborhood. Can she finally let go of the past and seek the relationship with Christ she never thought she could have?


Derek is a young new pastor in Mary’s neighborhood struggling to get rid of the shadow of corruption and religious abuse that his father left behind. When he attempts to make much needed changes in the church, he is faced with opposition from his older congregation and his long time girlfriend who wants him to give it all up and marry her. Derek handles this stress by indulging in his secret addiction to pornography. Filled with guilt and shame, Derek questions his call to the ministry until his path crosses with Mary. Is his faith strong enough to pass this ultimate test?

Excerpt  (Disclamier:  Content a little racy!)

In her rush to get out of the building, Mary used the side exit close to Cheryl’s office. She was outside when she realized she had walked to the office. “Damn!” she said out loud. She slid her sunglasses onto her face and looked around. No protesters from the church were in sight.

I am trippin. I ain’t scared of the hypocrite church roaches! She slowed her pace to a leisure stroll, taking in the sight of the slowly transitioning streets. Old worn out buildings were being remodeled and turned into stores and loft apartments. She had never bothered to take the time to study her neighborhood. Mary appreciated the coming beauty. There was even a neighborhood garden. It was a small patch of grass and flowers screened in with a wire fence. But it was a charming addition to the area. She opened the gate and walked inside. A little peace of heaven, she thought and sniffed the air. That’s alright. She fell onto her knees in front of a bush of yellow roses and felt the pedals with her fingertips. She closed her eyes and savored the aroma coming from the buds.

“It kinda takes your breathe away, doesn’t it,” Derek asked from behind her. Mary whipped around and faced him. He stood behind her with his hands in his pockets. The sun blocked the details of his face but she knew he was smiling at her. She hopped to her feet and brushed the soil from her knees.

“Didn’t mean to interrupt,” he apologized, backing away to give her more space. “It’s cool,” she said, taking another look at the flowers. “I was about to get outta here anyway.”

“Why,” he asked, really sorry he had interrupted her. “It’s a beautiful garden. It was made to enjoy.”

“It is a nice space,” she agreed, trying to get a quick look at everything around them.

“I don’t know if you remember me, but I’m Derek Caruthers from New Hope Church,” he held his hand out. Mary nodded and walked past him towards the front gate.

“I do remember you, Pastor,” she said, checking out the rest of the garden. “Thanks for taking care of the noise.”

He laughed. “You’re welcome,” he said, turning her way. “The noise may be gone completely soon.”

Mary stopped and spun around. “You’re moving already?”

"No, no, no,” he said, taking a step. “It’s just my teaching is not exactly popular. Some more traditional church goers may not like it.”

Mary grinned. “Why? What are you teaching that would offend those people?”

“The truth,” he said bluntly.

Find Katina at : http://www.wayofgracemedia/

Life Is What You Make It - Blog Tour

List your published books.

Life is what you make it: Seven steps to moving forward

Life is what you make it: Build a better life for you and your family

What’s on the Menu? : Steps to healing and breakthrough

Which book did you find the hardest to birth?

Life is what you make it – seven steps to moving forward was the hardest to birth because it’s based on parts of my life story.

Which book is your current favorite?

Life is what you make it – seven steps to moving forward is my favorite

How would you describe your writing style?

I would describe my writing style as a combination of “inspirational” and “Motivational” ingredients cooking in the same pot.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind?

No, I prefer silence.

Tell us anything about you as a writer that you think might be interesting or unusual.

I always write three manuscripts at the same time, that way I never get writers block.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

Just as in everything in life, the more you do it the better you get so write as much as you can and then some more. When writing, never worry about making mistakes or worry about how different parts will sound, you could always go back and correct it. If the thoughts are flowing, flow with it, never break you train of thought by trying to correct while writing

Writers are often encouraged to write what they know. Have you found that to be the case with your writing?

Yes, you could never attempt to write what you don’t know. This will generate problems for you in the long run.

About the Book

Carl Mathis wasn’t prepared for the devastation the loss of his wife would bring to his life. He soon found himself grieving, struggling to make ends meet, and trying to raise his sons, who were also dealing with personal turmoil from the loss of their mother. After months of waiting for someone to rescue him, Carl had to face the inevitable truth–no one was coming. He realized that if he wanted out of the mess his life was becoming, he was going to have to do it himself.

Join new author Carl Mathis in this motivational story about one man’s struggle to put his life back together. Life Is What You Make It will teach you how to overcome any crippling situation you find yourself in and stimulate personal and spiritual growth by accepting the situation, taking responsibility, conditioning your mind, choosing to make right decisions, building a team, believing, and defining the new normal.

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com , BooksaMillion.com

Visit the author at CarlMathis.com

Visit the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/LifeisWhatYouMakeIt

Man Enough For Me - Blog Tour

About the Author

Rhonda Bowen is a writer and event planner living in Toronto. When not stressing over her job, she can be found at church stressing over the kids she teaches in youth class. She enjoys spending time with her family, trying on shoes she can’t afford, and enjoying life’s unexpected twists and turns.

Visit her online at http://www.rhondabowen.com/

List your published books.

Man Enough For Me is my first published novel. It was released February 22, 2011 from Kensington Books.

Which book did you find the hardest to birth?

I am finding my second novel harder to write. With the first novel, I had all the time in the world to lovingly craft it into what I wanted it to be. With the second novel, I am under the time constraints of a contract and have to be more disciplined and deliberate in meeting my own personal writing deadlines and those of my editor!

How would you describe your writing style?

I think my writing style is still evolving. Probably unlike most writers and most likely to the horror of my editor I never outline a story before I write it. In fact, I tried that once and the story never got finished. I usually mull an idea around in my head until I have a first chapter. Only then do I start writing, and from there, I let the story write itself.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind?

I love listening to music while I write! I feel like the music sets my mood and helps me feel what I want my characters to feel in a particular scene. I listen to some 90s R&B but mostly gospel. Fred Hammond and Kirk Franklin are favorites.

Tell us anything about you as a writer that you think might be interesting or unusual.

I’m an undercover writer. When I told my family and friends that I had a novel that was being published most of them went into shock. Very few people know how much I write. In fact outside of my immediate family and a few writer friends, not many people know.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

I feel like I’m still too new to be giving advice, but I do encourage aspiring writers to just write. Write everyday and write about things that interest you. Don’t worry too much about being published at first. Just make sure you’re having fun. I think when you are enjoying yourself writing, the sentiment will be transferred into your work.

Writers are often encouraged to write what they know. Have you found that to be the case with your writing?

It is definitely easier to write what you know and I think your story ends up being more credible when you do. I have read stories by other fiction writers where they write about the industry that I am a part of and I can tell almost immediately when they have no firsthand experience. I am not saying that you should never write about unfamiliar topics, but if you do you should definitely do your research and, if possible, have someone who knows look over your story for you.

About the Book

Twenty-something public relations gem Jules Jackson has everything in her life under control, and that’s exactly the way she likes it. She’s got no problem handling two jobs, her crazy friends, and her difficult mother. But she’s just about given up on men—until she meets fine Germaine Williams …

Straight-up catch Germaine is eager to prove his worth to Jules, and she falls hard. But it’s soon clear Germaine’s keeping at least one big secret. And the deeper Jules digs, the more her balancing act, and her romance, begins to crumble. Now Jules can either turn to her faith and open her heart to love—or risk getting it broken…

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon.com , BooksaMillion.com, BarnesandNoble.com




For More Information


Visit the author online at http://www.rhondabowen.com/

View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/ManEnoughForMe

Book Review

by

Janette Malcolm

Man Enough for Me written by Rhonda Bowen is an awe inspiring book that shows that no matter what you do if you trust in God He will take care of you.


Jules Jackson has a good job, good friends, a burgeoning career that she loves but she hasn't met that one person she connects with who she could truly love. Jules is just a little jaded by the prospects of men out there. She constantly finds flaws with every man she meets and does not expect to give her heart away anytime soon.

Germaine Williams is an entrepreneur and a man of faith who also harbors a secret. When the two meet, sparks fly. You know that they are perfect together but wonder if they can trust each other enough to be the person that they need each other to be.

Rhonda Bowen is a talented writer and a great story teller. She showed all aspects of the Christian experience from those deeply rooted in their faith to those who are new to the faith.

I really enjoyed this book. Although it started out slow, it soon picked up the momentum as it makes you wonder what secret is Germaine hiding, how would Jules handle it all, could she, would she trust God in all aspects of her life. I was drawn into all the twists and turns of the relationships within this story. I found myself turning several pages ahead just to see what was coming up next.

This was a very good book and I can’t wait for Rhonda Bowen's next one.

Delilah - When Love Deceives - Blog Tour

5 Questions with Author Shelia M Goss

Shelia Goss has stopped here on my blog for her Delilah When Love Deceives tour. She's celebrating the release of her tenth novel. Delilah is her first Christian fiction novel and is in stores now.

Where do you get the inspiration for your stories?
Inspiration comes from life. I can be dreaming, on the phone, watching TV, at the store...etc. Ideas will pop into my head at odd times. I wrote Delilah because I kept hearing people trying to blame others for their transgressions instead of taking responsibilities for their own actions. I decided to take a tragic love story from the Bible and give it a modern day twist.

What is Delilah about?
Delilah is an entertaining novel with a Christian message that is not preachy but allows the readers to see how our choices can affect our lives. The characters face many temptations but there is room for redemption. I think even if you don't normally read Christian fiction, you will be able to enjoy Delilah.

Are any of your characters based on real people?
The characters in my book are only figments of my imagination. I may take personality traits from a variety of people (whether it be someone I know or a stranger) but for the most part, if a character resembles someone you know, it's strictly coincidental (smile).

What would you like readers to learn from your novels?
Each one of my stories have at least one message. The messages vary. I hope readers of my books are able to not only be entertained, but think and learn something from the characters.

No one is perfect and we all fall short, but even with our imperfections, God gives us grace and shows us mercy.

What advice would you give aspiring writers?
If you feel that you have a God given talent, then practice your craft and be the best you can be. Despite the rejections you may get, do not give up. Believe in yourself. Take a chance on yourself and do not accept no. Also, it is very important if you want to be a writer to WRITE. Get at least the first draft done and you'll have something to work with.

DELILAH is Shelia Goss' tenth book. It's available in hardcover and paperback.

Amazon , Barnes and Noble , Borders, BlackExpressions.com (HARD COVER ONLY)

About Delilah:

Behind every successful man is a good woman. The downfall of a good man is a woman up to no good.

Thirty and fine, Samson Judges is preacher of the Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church . He’s beloved by his congregation, but temptation is about to strike in the form of divalicious beauty Delilah, and only the Good Lord knows if Samson will be able to keep his head on straight with her. Especially considering he’s about to be married to Julia Rivers. Julia helped shape Samson into the man he is, but Delilah wants to knock him down. He doesn’t know she’s been hired to distract him by real estate developer William Trusts, who wants to acquire the land where Samson’s church stands.... Samson feels like his relationship with God puts him above it all, but his weakness for Delilah may just cause him to lose everything. ~ Black Expressions Book Club

About Shelia M Goss:

Shelia M. Goss is the Essence Magazine & Black Expressions Book Club Best-Selling author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are Thorns, Paige’s Web, Double Platinum, His Invisible Wife, Hollywood Deception and the teen series The Lip Gloss Chronicles. Delilah is her tenth novel and first Christian fiction novel. To learn more, visit her website: http://www.sheliagoss.com/, www.twitter.com/sheliamgoss or www.facebook.com/sheliagoss.

COMPletely Whole Blog Tour - Day One

About the Author

A sought after speaker, certified life coach, minister and author. As an inspirational and motivational speaker, Paulette’s desire is to motive women to reach their God given potential through conferences, workshops and seminars. Combining enthusiasm with an energetic speaking style, audiences describe Paulette’s presentation as inspiriting, enriching and encouraging. She is committed to speaking a message that is always uplifting and edifying. Paulette has authored such books as That Was Then, This Is Now which achieved national recognition by being awarded a finalist in the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Award and her newest release Completely Whole was published under her own publishing company Thy Word Publishing. She is the co-author of Victorious Living for Women. Her next book For Such a Time as This will be released in 2011 in addition to Victorious Living for Moms.

About the Book

Life’s daily struggles can often leave us perplexed and bewildered on how to cope with hard issues. In COMPLETELY WHOLE, Paulette Harper offers keys to help those who are searching for answers that can lead to a life of complete wholeness: Spirit, Soul and Body. COMPLETELY WHOLE focuses on how to overcome suffering caused by alcoholism, substance abuse, poverty, and other obstacles blocking the path to a life of wholeness.”

Purchase the Book Online at:

• Amazon Kindle • BooksaMillion.com • Powells.com • BarnesandNoble.com • The Burning Bush Bookstore

Book Trailer



PODCAST 1 - About the Book

PODCAST 2 - For Readers

PODCAST 3 - Excerpt

For More Information


• Visit the author online at http://www.pauletteharper.com/

• View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/CompletelyWhole

The Last Temptation Tour - Day One

About the Author


Michelle Stimpson is an author, a speaker, and an educator who received her Bachelor of Science degree from Jarvis Christian College in 1994. She earned a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Arlington in 2002. She has had the pleasure of teaching elementary, middle, and high school as well as training adults.

In addition to her work in the field of education, Michelle ministers through writing and public speaking. Her works include Boaz Brown, Breaking Bondage to Biscuits, Divas of Damascus Road (National Bestseller), The Good Stuff, Trouble In My Way, and the upcoming release, Last Temptation. She has written and published over 40 short stories through her educational publishing company at http://www.wegottaread.com/. She also ministers to women through her online newsletter: http://www.womengrowinginchrist.com/.

Michelle lives near Dallas with her husband and their two teenage children. She is active in the Creative Tyme Ministry at her home church, Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. Visit Michelle online at http://www.michellestimpson.com/.

Michelle, list your published books.

Boaz Brown, Divas of Damascus Road, Breaking Bondage to Biscuits, Trouble in My Way, The Good Stuff, Last Temptation.

Which book did you find the hardest to birth?

The Good Stuff was probably the hardest because there was so much I wanted to say in that little book. There’s still a non-fiction aspect to that book that I want to finish.

Which book is your current favorite?

That’s a super-tough question. I love them all for different reasons. I want to say Boaz Brown, but I’m partial to my first-born.

How would you describe your writing style?

Easy-going. I like to write first-person because I like telling stories when I’m with my friends. So, it’s easy for me to write in a conversational style.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind?

No, I don’t listen to music when I write. I wouldn’t be able to concentrate. I have to have a completely quiet house to write at home; a secluded booth when I’m at Panera.

Tell us anything about you as a writer that you think might be interesting or unusual.

I don’t do a bunch of outlines when I write – I just write myself into the story. This usually means I’ll have quite a bit of re-writing to do, but I’m okay with it.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?

Just write the book already!

Writers are often encouraged to write what they know. Have you found that to be the case with your writing?

In my case, yes. When I write what I know, the work comes across as authentic and believable.

About the Book


Patricia “Peaches” Miller finally has the man and the ring she always wanted, but she’s not quite ready to turn in her Independent-Woman-Card to follow her follow her future husband’s dreams. When her ex suddenly becomes re-interested in her, Peaches wonders if she owes it to her son to give his father one more chance. But this last temptation hurls Peaches down a dangerous road that tests her relationships, her faith, and even her sanity. Can sin ever have a silver lining?

You’ll love revisiting the main characters from Michelle’s highly acclaimed debut novel, Boaz Brown, in this long-awaited story of rebellion and redemption.

To Order This Book

• Amazon.com , Barnes and Noble ,  Borders ,  Books A Million
For More Information

• Visit the author online at http://www.michellestimpson.com/

• View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/LastTemptationBlogTour

A Love For Tomorrow - Blog Tour

Vanessa Miller is a best-selling author, playwright, and motivational speaker. She started writing as a child, spending countless hours either reading or writing poetry, short stories, stage plays and novels. Vanessa’s creative endeavors took on new meaning in1994 when she became a Christian. Since then, her writing has been centered on themes of redemption, often focusing on characters facing multi-dimensional struggles.

Vanessa’s novels have received rave reviews, with several appearing on Essence Magazine’s Bestseller’s List. Miller’s work has receiving numerous awards, including “Best Christian Fiction Mahogany Award” and the “Red Rose Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction.” Miller graduated from Capital University with a degree in Organizational Communication. She is an ordained “exhorter” in her church, explaining, “God has called me to exhort readers and to help them rediscover their place with the Lord.”

A Love for Tomorrow is the second book in the Second Chance at Love series.

About the Book

 
When Christian talk show host Serenity Williams’ fiancé calls off their wedding because he can’t deal with her popularity, she determines that she will never fall in love with another pride-filled, ego-driven pastor. Then, Serenity’s producer asks her to interview the charismatic Pastor Phillip McKnight, who has recently gone through a divorce. Serenity feels that this is her chance to expose the arrogance of ego-filled pastors to the world. But Pastor Phillip is broken and humbled from his experiences, and the surprising humility of this man causes Serenity to want to un-break his heart. However, Serenity will need the Lord to fix her heart and change her mind about male preachers before she and Phillip can become all they were meant to be to each other.

Book Trailer

PODCAST  -

About the Book

For Readers

Purchase the Book Online at:

Amazon , BarnesandNoble , Christianbook.com 

For More Information:

• Visit the author online at http://www.vanessamiller.com

• View the blog tour schedule at http://bit.ly/ALoveForTomorrow.

Destined Blog Tour - Day One

PATRICIA HALEY is the trailblazing, #1 Essence bestselling author of seven faith-based, novels, including Let Sleeping Dogs Lie, No Regrets, and Chosen. She’s a project manager with degrees from Stanford University and the University of Chicago. She is a born again believer and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Patricia lives with her husband and daughter in Philadelphia.

Visit her on www.patriciahaley.com or become a fan of Author Patricia Haley on Facebook.

Hello Pat, list your published books. List your published books. Destined, Chosen, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie, Still Waters, Blind Faith, No Regrets, Nobody’s Perfect.

Which book did you find the hardest to birth?

Once I decided on my storyline, all of my books flowed during the writing process. I’ve never had writer’s block. However, if I had to select one as the hardest to birth, it would be my second novel, No Regrets. I figured the first book might have been a fluke and was wondering if I could do it again, write another. Fortunately for me I finished number two and five more since then.

Which book is your current favorite?

Of all the books that I’ve written, there is no personal favorite. Like a proud parent, I love each of my literary ‘babies’ in a special and unique way for different reasons. I can, however, say unequivocally that my husband loves No Regrets. The touching ending puts it in the category of a tear jerker, and my husband longs for the day when it will be made into a movie.

How would you describe your writing style?
Easy, modern day storytelling with a clean, faith based twist that always has an element of humor, forgiveness, family bonds, and real life challenges.

Do you listen to music while you write? If so, what kind?
I personally love jazz and listen to Miles Davis, Marcus Roberts, Sherry Wilson-Butler, and sometimes Billie Holiday and Minnie Riperton.

Tell us anything about you as a writer that you think might be interesting or unusual.
An interesting bit of information about me is that I am a huge basketball fan. I can probably name the championship winners all the way back to 1988. I didn’t play on the team during high school but I sure love going to the amusement park or Chuck E Cheese with my daughter and heading straight for the basketball games. Believe it or not, I do win sometimes.

What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
The best way to get started as a writer is to get the first word on the page. Commit yourself to doing the hard work of drafting your manuscript, editing, and improving but never forget to enjoy the journey. Don’t measure your success, financial compensation, or goals with those of other people. Everybody writes for their own unique purpose. Each writer has to figure out theirs.

Writers are often encouraged to write what they know. Have you found that to be the case with your writing? I believe that writers definitely write what they know in the beginning. However, the concept of ‘what you know’ might come from life experience, research, dreams, speculation, stereotypes, stories from other people, and so on. In the beginning, I guess I wrote what I knew to a large degree, but as my grasp of the craft evolved, I learned to focus on creating dynamic characters and let them tell their story, expanding beyond the realm of ‘what I know’.

About the Book

Destined by Patricia Haley is the second novel in the Chosen series, inspired by the popular biblical kings David and Solomon.

Don, the eldest son and rightful heir to the ministry, returns from South Africa after three years of self-imposed exile. With a renewed zeal to reclaim the leadership of his late father’s multi-million dollar ministry, his plans are short-lived when a stock transfer agreement goes wrong, rendering Don powerless. Don’s little brother Joel continues as CEO, careening down the path of personal, professional, and spiritual demise, as he drags the ministry down with him. The only hope to save their father’s legacy is Don’s intervention, and so clinging to his self-worth and faith, Don is torn between fighting for a company he wasn’t chosen to run and fleeing back to his South African refuge, a place where his peace, his growing relationship with Naledi, and his dignity aren’t in question. After much soul searching, Don comes to realize that his destiny is inescapable and that his future lies in his family’s legacy.

Combining spiritual themes with family tension, corporate intrigue, and romance, this series is an exciting addition to the faith-based fiction market.

View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at

http://bit.ly/DestinedBlogTour

Sins of the Mother Blog Tour - Day One

Victoria Christopher Murray originally self published Temptation. “I wanted to write a book as entertaining as any book on the market, put God in the middle, and have the book still be a page-turner. I wasn’t writing to any particular genre – I didn’t even know Christian fiction existed. I just wanted to write about people I knew and characters I could relate to.”

Since Temptation, Victoria has written seven other novels and was a contributor to the first Christian fiction anthology, Blessed Assurance. She was also the Contributing Editor for the Aspire Women of Color Bible published by Zondervan in 2007.  All of her novels have continued to be Essence bestsellers.

In 2008, Victoria’s first novels in her Christian fiction teen series - The Divine Divas – were published.  “I was concerned with what our young ladies were reading.  I decided to do something about that – give them stories full of drama, but with a message.”  The Divine Divas has already been optioned to become a television series.

Victoria, from the resume above one can tell that you have a very successful writing career. In your own words introduce yourself to those who may be discovering you for the first time.

 Hmmm....what should I say about myself.  Well, my name is Victoria and I'm an author! (Insert group of authors saying, Hi Victoria.)  Anyway, I'm from New York, attended college in Virginia, now live between LA and DC and I love what I do.  What kind of books do I write?  Wow, that question has been the bane of my existence.  I write books from my heart, not meant to be assigned to any genre.

Sins of the Mother is your 8th adult novel . Tell us about it.

Well, Sins...is my ninth adult novel, but who's counting.  Sins is the story of a mother's living nightmare.  I wanted to explore what happens to a mother (and father) when a child is lost and you have no idea is the child is dead or alive, if the child will ever be found.  Can you eat, sleep?  What do you do?  What do you think about?  How do you live?  Those are the questions....

This is the fifth novel  that includes the lovely Jasmine Larson Bush. Jasmine is known as a scheming man-stealer  who suffers from lapses of memory and/or can be very creative with the truth. Most of the trouble in Jasmine’s world she kind of brings on herself, not so in this novel. Share the inspiration for such a different story for Jasmine.

This novel came from all the readers who wrote and told me that Jasmine had to pay one day.  To them, I say, enjoy!  To the others, I say, aren't you glad that those of us who are made of flesh aren't God?

Would you share something about Victoria the writer or Victoria the person that readers might find interesting?

 I used to run marathons - is that interesting?  I've had my hip replaced, so I can't run anymore - is that interesting?  I read about fifty books a year - nah, that's not interesting.  Let me think of something else....still thinking....still thinking.....

Where will you be touring with Sins of the Mother?

 I won't be touring as much as I have with my previous novels.  Just a few cities now, way down from my twenty and thirty city tour days.  This is just a casualty of the market.

  About the Book

 Have the sins of the mother come upon the daughter?

Jasmine Larson Bush is finally living a drama-free life. She’s left her lying, cheating, stealing stripper days behind and is standing by her husband’s side as the first lady of one of the largest churches in New York City. The Bushes have been blessed with the best of everything—including two lovely children.

But just when Jasmine has committed her life completely to God, her daughter Jacqueline is kidnapped from a mall the day after Thanksgiving. The police and the church community join in the frantic search to find the four-year-old. As the days pass without any sign of her daughter, Jasmine begins to crack under the strain and turns to Brian Lewis, Jacqueline’s biological father, for solace.

Has Jasmine’s past finally caught up to her? Will her daughter be found or will Jasmine pay the ultimate price?

Visit Victoria online at http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/

 Book Review

I posted my review of the novel a  few weeks ago. Click here to read.

View the blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at

http://bit.ly/SinsoftheMother.