Ordained by the Streets by E.N. JOY

What's hot for e-readers?

About the Book

“While half the women in the neighborhood got dressed up in their Sunday’s best to go worship an invisible man, the real live men of flesh they laid down with every night was giving my mother praise. And although they weren’t putting ten percent of their earnings in some shiny collection plate, they were doing pretty good filling up my mom’s Crowne Royal bag that laid on her nightstand, next to her bed.”

Ordained By The Streets introduces you to Poppa, or rather, Poppa introduces you to himself. A self-proclaimed street preacher, Poppa’s credentials and credibility don’t come from the church house or a preacher man; it comes straight from where it counts…the streets.

More than eyes have seen or ears have heard, Poppa never becomes jaded by the lives and stories he encounters in his position on the streets. In this urban tract, Poppa encounters a girl whose mind he sets out to manipulate. After all, that’s what he does. But in this girl, Poppa just might have met his match.

When this girl bares her soul to Poppa with details of her life, he has no idea just how much her story is going to change his life…forever.

Book Review

 
From the very first words "I'm Saved," E.N. Joy creates a tale that will have you hooked until the very end. Ordained by The Streets (The Street Preacher) is a Christian fiction book unlike any others that I have read before. It mixes the bible and religious values with gritty life on the streets. It takes you into the lives of pimps, prostitutes, and runaways.


In the beginning, Poppa is introduced to a 17 year old runaway and that introduction changes his life. This girl is not like any other girl that he has met. She has endured more than most people in her short life and through it all she never gives up her faith. She is a strong willed person with one goal in mind. She is willing to do whatever it takes to survive but in the course of it all she holds on to her beliefs.

All that Poppa learned about peoples character and how to manipulate people, he learned in the church. Things that you never would expect for a person of poppa's standings to use, he used to his advantage. He was the Sheppard leading the sheep to his flock.

Ordained by The Streets (The Street Preacher) is a story about hope, faith and redemption. I strongly recommend this book. If you are looking for a fast and moving read this is the book for you. I completed this book in one day. I am looking forward the next book in the Street Preacher series.

This book is available for purchase at Amazon.com, B&N.com, Smashwords.com and at Itunes.
 
While it is an ebook, please note you do not have to have an e-reader to read ebooks. They can be downloaded to your Android phone, Blackberry phone, IPad and home computer.
 
Learn more about the author at her website http://www.enjoywrites.com/

The Deal, The Dance and The Devil by Victoria Christopher Murray

What would you do for $5 million dollars...



Available wherever books are sold on Tuesday, June 7th and online at Amazon.com and BarnesandNobles.com.

The Deal, the Dance and the Devil by Victoria Christopher Murray

Murray is back and boy does she deliver...

About the Book

What would you do for five million dollars?

Adam and Evia Langston have lived in their own little garden of Eden since the two married at the age of seventeen. Working their way up from the humblest of beginnings, the Langstons have thrived beyond anything they could have ever imagined. Now they live in the finest home, drive the best cars, and indulge in all the trimmings that signify their massive success.


But then the recession hits and rips apart the family's financial stability. Unable to support their three children and other relatives, Adam and Evia find themselves drowning in financial trouble and teetering on the brink of complete disaster. With nowhere to turn, the Langstons have no idea what to do.

Until Shay-Shaunté, Evia's multimillionaire boss, comes to the Langstons with a five-million-dollar offer that seems so hard to refuse. Will the Langstons make this deal? Or will they recognize that the glitter of five million dollars may be far from gold?

My Review

In her tenth novel, Victoria Christopher Murray has penned an emotionally gripping story that has brought to life a cast of characters caught up in a tragedy as timeless and evocative as those of the Ancient Greeks or Shakespeare. Evia and Adam were a couple living the American Dream, until Adam lost his high paying corporate job. Now they find themselves living the American nightmare. There’s more month than money and financial ruin is imminent, but there’s a life raft – an offer of five million dollars if Adam will spend one weekend with Evia’s boss. They take the deal, but then their lives spin out of control. Murray convinces readers with a conviction of a skilled writer that you cannot, should not dance with the devil. I thought about this story long after I closed the book.

Read an excerpt on the author's website at http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/novels.html

Available wherever fine books are sold on June 7th and at Amazon.com

The Revelation Gate Blog Tour

About the Author

Brian L. Thompson, Great Nation Publishing’s President/Owner and author of The Lost Testament, is a licensed educator, and former professional journalist.

He showed an early interest in classical literature and the arts, particularly after his poem, “Black Sunday,” received an honorable mention in Gwynedd-Mercy College’s literary contest for high school students in 1993.

A 1994 North Penn High School graduate, he continued his education at Morehouse College in Atlanta. While there, Thompson wrote for the Maroon Tiger newspaper; moving up the ranks from staff writer, to Sports Editor, and finally to Editor-in Chief.

After earning his Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in English in 1998, he transitioned to a staff writer position at Montgomery Newspapers.

In 2000, his second as a professional journalist, he returned to the field of academics at Temple University, earning a Master’s Degree in secondary education in 2001.

Thompson then turned to education at West Charlotte High and Newton High schools respectively while simultaneously researching and writing his first Christian fiction novel, The Lost Testament – a project self-described as a “faith-based tale with every day characters engaged in a thrilling plot.”

During this time, he also helped edit author Sabra Robinson’s anthology of inspirational stories entitled The Lost Sheep: How I Got (And AM Still Getting) Over the Hump – A Personal Account of God’s Restoration After Doubting His Purpose, the Church, and Human Existence.

He and his family reside in Georgia.

About the Book

After 800 years of oppression, the Uché abandon all hope of liberation – until a boy with unbreakable bones emerges from the wilderness. . .

For centuries, Uché seers foretold the birth of a deliverer called Mkombozi – one fated to enter The Revelation Gate and lead them to freedom.

Knowing this, the king of the barbarous Otī does his best to eliminate the lone threat to his dominion. When his best efforts fail, he allies himself with a self-proclaimed emperor who reveals the true natures of The Revelation Gate and the Uché hero.

Meanwhile, as Mkombozi’s mother wavers between feelings of abandonment and crises of faith, her people ready themselves to wage an unwinnable war – minus faith in their deliverer, whose fate ushers him to an uncertain destination.

Merging elements of political intrigue and social class relations together in an allegorical, character-driven plot, The Revelation Gate confronts issues of doubt, star-crossed love, and the power of the individual.

Great Nation Publishing presents: The Revelation Gate Full Trailer 1

Podcast 1 – About the Book

Podcast 2 – Excerpt from The Revelation Gate

 

Purchase the Book Online at:


http://www.brianlthompson.co/Books.html

For More Information


Visit the author at http://www.greatnationpublishing.com/

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

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

Aleysha’s Inspirational Cafe Blog Tour -He’s The Keeper of My Soul

Are You Experiencing a Season? Be Encouraged!

When I wrote “He’s the Keeper of My Soul” – I was experiencing a “season”. We all go through them. In this particular season, the economic recession was beginning to grow – and my life was affected. I KNEW that the LORD was still with me, and I was going to have to praise and worship my way out of that very dry and frustrating period. Shortly after this book was released, I was writing for an online Bible study group. And let me tell you, I was writing from a place of pain and experience. I was encouraging God’s people to keep holding onto His Word and His hand – while I was encouraging myself. And all I can tell you is – GOD is faithful!!

About the Book

What would you do if you knew that you could not fail? How would you feel about yourself if you KNEW that the God of the Universe is crazy about you?! How would your life be different?

So many people live their lives thinking if only I were smarter, if only I were thinner, if only I were richer, if only I were more educated, if only, if only, if only.

You fill in the blanks. If only _____, then my life would be better or complete.

In He’s the Keeper of My Soul, Aleysha will walk you through scriptures to show you just how smitten God is with you, and you’ll be able to see how He sees you! It doesn’t matter if the year is 2008 or 8008, the Bible is still relevant in our everyday life. King Solomon said, “There’s nothing new under the sun.” Meaning, any economical, social, political or personal issue that we’re experiencing in our current day, has already been experienced in the past. And the Bible has an answer for it!

Purchase the Book Online at:

• Amazon.com
• Barnes & Noble
• Booksamillion.com

About the Author

Aleysha Proctor is an award-winning Entrepreneur, award-winning Author, and certified Image Consultant (having studied with Color Me Beautiful, Inc., Beauty for All Seasons and Brenda York Image Management). She also has a BS degree in Management & Leadership, an MBA in Marketing from Hamilton University, and is a certified Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF). Aleysha is a member of the Fashion Group International (FGI), where she served as the president of the Foundation, which awarded scholarships to area students majoring in fashion related fields. She’s also a member of the National Black MBA Association, Inc. (NBMBAA).

Aleysha has authored three inspirational books: With Style & Amazing Grace (2007), He’s the Keeper of My Soul (2008), and Jazz, Java & Jesus (2010). Inc. In 2008, she won Aspicomm Media’s Best Spiritual/Inspirational Book award for her first title, “With Style & Amazing Grace”.

A member of the First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Maryland (FBCG), Aleysha’s passion in life is helping others to live their best lives now by realizing and utilizing their potential. Visit the author online at http://www.aleyshaproctor.com/

Set Free to Live Free Blog Tour

A Physician Shows How Our Physical Health Is Impacted By Spiritual and Mental Choices.

Discover the seven lies women believe about themselves and how they can overcome them.

Author Saundra Dalton-Smith, a practicing physician, shows women how to break free from fear, insecurity, and other lies they tell themselves into a life of health and balance in Set Free to Live Free.

Smith shares with readers how one patient reshaped her practice and approach to medicine. One day, a patient entered her office, and as Smith listened, she recognized she would need to work closely with this patient if she was to get better. She could not simply offer the latest medications, but would instead need to walk with the patient and help her become free from the lies that had impacted her physical health. Readers will journey with this patient and others as Smith shares how their triumphs became her motivation to see others free.

Imagine life with unlimited possibility, where fear, misconceptions, and insecurities don't have the power to rob us of our potential or our dreams. Many women have trouble seeing this vision, because they are bound by mental ties that keep them from living free. In Set Free to Live Free, Smith will show women how to break free from seven mental ties that hold them back: perfection, envy, image, balance, control, emotions, and limits. She encourages women to embrace spontaneity, be transparent, nurture their bodies, and cultivate a balanced life through compassionate and inspirational writing.

A study guide is provided at the end of the book outlining each chapter with discussion questions.

Saundra Dalton-Smith MD is a board-certified internal medicine physician who has been practicing medicine since 1999. She treats a predominantly female population and has firsthand experience with the struggles women face trying to imitate the American dream. Dr. Dalton-Smith has been an adjunct faculty member at Baker College and Davenport University in Michigan. She lives in Alabama.

Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, offers practical books that bring the Christian faith to everyday life. They publish resources from a variety of well-known brands and authors, including their partnership with MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and Hungry Planet.


Set Free to Live Free by Saundra Dalton-Smith MD. Using her unique perspective as a physician, Dr. Dalton-Smith shares her wisdom and experience regarding the impact of spiritual and mental health on a woman’s physical condition. Read the attached press release for more details about this book.


**CONTEST!** Dr. Dalton-Smith is sponsoring the “Set Mom Free to Live Free” Contest in conjunction with her blog tour and Mother’s Day. You can enter to win a $100 VISA card, a bouquet of flowers delivered on Mother’s Day for yourself or your own mom! Find out details by liking Set Free to Live Free Fan Page 

Available May 2011at your favorite bookseller from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group.”

My True Essence by Shawneda Marks

Coming soon from Author, Shawneda Marks...

My True Essence

An Excerpt

Chapter One

“I’m not sure I understand exactly what it is you mean?” Rebecca’s demeanor fell as she held the phone. Dani released Rebecca’s long tresses from the flat iron and placed the instrument back in the oven.
Rebecca placed one finger in the air. She pointed to the frosted glass doors and rose from the salon chair. Dani’s Diva Den was her place of refuge. Whenever she had a hard week or an unbearable client, she made an appointment with the on-site masseuse. If she wanted to get spruced up for a night on the town with Colby she would let Dani tame her exotic curls to complement her heart shaped face.
The modern colors and bright salon chairs lost their luster a bit as she stepped out onto the hot Houston sidewalk. Oblivious to the odd stares of the pedestrians who shook their heads at her half curly, wet hair and half thick, pressed hair, her focus stayed on the call. She pressed the cell phone so close to her ear it pinched the back of her ear.
“You can’t think this is funny, Mama. You’ve never been one to play practical jokes. I know I haven’t come to see you like I promised but this is unnecessary. I’ll fly home next week. Let me clear my calendar.”Rebecca’s voice caught in her throat. “I don’t believe you. That’s impossible. Aunt Marisol can’t have breast cancer. It doesn’t even run in our family. I need to call you back.”
Dani opened the doors and waved for Rebecca to come back inside. Rebecca knew her legs were moving but didn’t know how. Breast cancer was something that happened to other people’s families.
Not hers. The people in her family were healthy eaters and active. It didn’t make sense. She had to figure out a way to fix this.
“Is everything all right?” Dani sat Rebecca back down in her chair, picking up the hair she released before Rebecca walked out of the salon. She blew on the irons before she passed them over the strands of her hair. Click here to read more.

Crowing Glory by Pat Simmons

About the Book

Cinderella had a prince; Karyn Wallace has a King.


While Karyn served four years in prison for an unthinkable crime, she embraced salvation through Crowns for Christ outreach ministry. After her release, Karyn stays strong and confident, despite the stigma society places on ex-offenders. Since Christ strengthens the underdog, Karyn refuses to sway away from the scripture, "He who the Son has set free is free indeed."

Levi Tolliver, for the most part, is a practicing Christian. One contradiction is he doesn't believe in turning the other cheek. He's steadfast there is a price to pay for every sin committed, especially after the untimely death of his wife during a robbery. Then Karyn enters Levi's life. He is enthralled not only with her beauty, but her sweet spirit until he learns about her incarceration. If Levi can accept that Christ paid Karyn's debt in full, then a treasure awaits him.

Award-winning author Pat Simmons delivers another powerful tale and reminds readers of the permanency of redemption.

From the Author

Cinderella not only had a prince, but lost a crystal slipper. I found it!

What perfect way to kick off the release of my fifth title than a 19" Crystal Shoe Table Lamp?

Be one of 50 readers to post a review about Crowning Glory during April 1-April 30, 2011, and enter into a drawing to win this keepsake as a thank you from me.

Once you've posted your review, email me at pat@patsimmons.net.

Also learn more about the story at my blog. Click here.

Thanks for your support!

Crowing Glory is available at Amazon, B&N and other fine retailers.

Losing It by Zaria Garrison

About the book

Grammy award–winning gospel singer and Christian actress Sharmaine Cleveland is having a bad year. She has been arrested and charged with the attempted murder of her husband, Leon. This follows on the heels of another scandal involving sex tapes allegedly starring Sharmaine that have been distributed to news stations across the country. Her latest CD release is a flop, while her newest movie release has been placed on hold indefinitely. Believing she wants him dead, her husband Leon abandons her, and her mother-in-law forcibly takes her children. Sharmaine’s life is sinking fast. Will she go under, or will God be able to pick her up and put the pieces back together?

Losing It is available on Amazon.com, B&N and other fine retailers. It's also available in Kindle and Nook format.

Find out more about Zaria Garrison at her website at http://www.zariagarrision.com/

Crossroads by Nikita Nichols

About the Book

Can all sins be erased by faith? Now saved, former bad-girl Amaryllis Price is about to find out…whether she’s ready for it or not. Once a professional husband stealer, Amaryllis has now taken a personal vow to walk the straight and narrow. You can take the diva out of the drama…but can you ever truly take the drama out of the diva? Especially now that the irresistible Charles Walker is back in her life. Can she really remain celibate when he’s trying so hard to woo her back to the bedroom? And Amaryllis’s friend Bridgette has drama to spare. Her boss’s nephew seems to be standing in the way of the promotion she’s worked so hard to earn. But will her burning, uncontrollable rage end up burning her in the end?

Crossroads is available at Amazon.com, B&N and other fine retailers. It is also available in Kindle and Nook format.

A Chapter A Month...coming April 4th

A Piece of Revenge by Rhonda McKnight (E- book)

I've joined the ranks of authors published in e-book format. Yay! I'm so excited.

Last summer "A Woman's Revenge" (a collection of novellas by Tiffany L. Warren, Sherri Lewis and myself) was published through our independent publishing company 3 Sisters Books. We have decided to independently publish our stories as e-book titles.

Short Description

A newlywed discovers she's married the wrong man when the funds for her non-profit organization are missing and so is he. She employs a private detective to help. Will he save all including her heart?

Extended Description

Where do broken hearts go? If you’re Tamera Watson…to the pawn shop to buy a gun. Tamera Watson’s husband is gone and so is her life savings and all the corporate grant funds for a non-profit program for underprivileged kids. With the last of her pennies she pays a private detective to hunt him down, so she can gun him down. When she finds him will she be able to pull the trigger? Or will the God of her heart stop her before she lets her desire for revenge take her too far.

A Piece of Revenge is availabe at Amazon.com, Barnes and Nobles and Smashwords. The price is $2.99

Delilah by Shelia Goss--TashaEdits.mov

Tasha Martin's review of Delilah by Shelia Goss. Learn more about Shelia at http://www.sheliagoss.com/

AN INCONVENIENT FRIEND - Have you read this book?

It may be 2011, but it's not too late to read the best of 2010!

AN INCONVENIENT FRIEND by yours truly, Rhonda McKnight was voted the best of the best for 2010!

It's always nice for your work to be acknowledged as the best. An Inconvenient Friend is #14 on the list of best Christian/Faith Based Books by the Sankoka Literary Society. Click the link Black Pearls Magazine.  to see the entire list.

Here's what others are saving about the book (content below is an excerpt from the original review. Please click on the website for the review to read the full review):

AALBC - Reviewed by Idrissa Uqdah
Is This What Friends Are For?

This novel is a great follow-up to McKnight's debut novel, Secrets and Lies. The protagonist, Samaria Jacobs returns as a nurse set on seducing still another rich but married doctor. But this time, she's the star of the show and the author has completely developed this character as more than a heathen and a home-wrecker. Drama, Drama, Drama; this story is full of it and I loved it!

APOOO BookClub - Reviewed by Jennifer Coissiere


I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. For a moment, I had a look into the mind and life of “the other woman.” Even though I do not condone another person coming between a husband and wife, I understood the reason Samaria did what she was doing. I recommend An Inconvenient Friend to readers of Christian fiction or inspirational fiction.


Amazon.com - Reviewed by Cheryl Francis

I loved this book!! Rhonda McKnight is a great author and I look forward to reading more books by her! I found this book at the Black Expressions website. I looked at the cover and thought it looked like a great book. The woman on the front looked to me like a nice church going woman--boy was I ever wrong!


Samaria Jacobs has a married lover named Gregory Preston who is a doctor. She said she understood how the cheating thing worked and there were two categories (P.7) "The first was what I called "something different." .... "The second category, and the one I preferred to be, was the new model". She met Gregory at a sports bar. She didn't think he would be interested but she pushed him because he was upset over a patient. She got him and had him for six months. She wanted to be more than just the woman on the side. (p.25). He did help her with her bills, but of course she wanted more.


Gregory's wife Angelina had a feeling that something was up. He was getting a lot of phone calls at odd times and worked more hours. She would also find lipstick stains on his collar and smell fresh woman's perfume on him. Samaria got to be good friends with Gregory's wife because she joined a church group and got involved in a big project. She even made up a fake name-Rae Burns.


No good can come out of getting so close to your lover's wife. She wanted to find out more about her so she could do everything she could to get Gregory closer to her, but then she started to really like Angelina. Samaria is a cold hearted woman. I can't believe the lengths she went to in order to try to tear Gregory and his wife apart.

You need to read this book to see how it ends.

And so do you! Please get your copy today. You won't regret it. Visit me at my website to read an excerpt and for links to order the book. http://www.rhondamcknight.net/

The Retreat by Dijorn Moss

Exciting new read... The Retreat by Dijorn Moss

Dijorn, introduce yourself to my readers. I am a proud husband and father. My wife Trinea and I are going on our sixth year in marriage and my son Caleb is 7 months old. My life has changed dramatically since becomin g a father. I use to spend my days off writing for anywhere between 12-14 hours. Now I have to work within a reasonable time frame so that I do not shortchange my family. I love to read, I love to write and I love to spend time with my family and friends. I know that I plenty of material to draw from with my family.


Tell us about The Retreat and the inspiration behind it. The retreat was inspired by my first men's retreat. I was blown away by how real Christian men get when there are no women around and it is just God and your brother next to you. So my story focuses on four men from different walks of life who attend a weekend Men's retreat and what they discover about themselves and about each other. Better yet, i like to summarize the Retreat like a movie: A vengeful business man, a single father, a religious nut and a car thief all met at a weekend retreat.

What message would you like readers to take away from the story? I want for men to be inspired and for them to reexamine their relationship with God. I want for them to start living their lives according to the principles of the Bible and strive to be a Man of God and not a Man of the world. I also want for women to have a better understanding of what Christian men struggle with and how they can help the men of their lives become all that God wants them to be!

What came first the characters or the story? Share a little about your writing process. The story came first, but I consider the Retreat to be a character driven story. I think in the end great stories have memorable characters. People may not be able to tell you what the Color Purple was about, but they do remember the characters and their famous lines. Also when I begin the process of rewriting I start first with a character draft. I devote a whole draft to the main characters of the story. i make sure that their journey makes sense and that their motivations for their actions are logical.

Advice for aspiring writers? Overcome rejection. A lot of times the different from the aspiring and the achieved is that one took rejection as a milstone tied around their neck while the other saw rejection as a stepping stone to where they want to be!

What’s next for Dijorn Moss? I am blessed to be apart of the Home Again anthology so right now I am promoting both Home Again and The Retreat while finishing my next novel. I am also working on my next play as well as my first real screenplay. I am all about growth and expansion. God willing you will see another novel from me in 2012.

How can my readers find you on the Internet? http://www.dijornmoss.webs.com/ and if facebook had a refrigerator stocked with food, Facebook would be my second home.

About the Book

For those who have ever wondered what goes on at a men's retreat, The Retreat is an in-depth look into the lives of four men who have looked for answers in all the wrong places . . . until now.


Quincy is in the final stages of his divorce, but he still wants to know which church member had an affair with his wife. Jamal is on the verge of the promotion of a lifetime, but unresolved issues with his son, Jamir, threaten everything. Chauncey is a man who will go to great lengths for his church, but not for his terminally ill brother. Will is a young hustler who has been given a rare opportunity to make a choice that will change his life forever.

These four men are all at a crossroads in their lives. Will they lay their burdens down at the cross, or will they choose paths that will cause more harm than good? It will all be revealed at the men's retreat, where they learn that they need God and his wisdom more than ever.

Available wherever fine books are sold and in online bookstores such as Amazon.com

A CHAPTER A MONTH - Great stories all the time!

Donna Hill Online: A CHAPTER A MONTH: "Authors you love...all the time. Introducing A Chapter a Month. The first of its kind website where a team of today's top-selling au..."

I'm excited about this venture. I look forward to joining the site with a story this summer.

Never Without Hope by Michelle Sutton

I had the pleasure of reading this novel prior to publication, when the author, Michelle Sutton, was patiently waiting for it to find a home with a publisher. It was one of the best books I had ever read and dare I say a super-edgy departure from the stories that had been published in Christian Fiction. (Hence, the issue with it finding a home.) This story is not about African-American characters and I know that's the focus for this blog, but it's much to relevant for me not to share with my readers. Trust me, you will not be disappointed with this awesome book!

About the Book

Hope believes she is above sexual temptation; that she would never break that commandment like her husband's previous wives had done. After all, she is a good Christian and a loving mother. She has no reason to stray . . . until her husband starts neglecting her needs and things begin to look hopeless. Though she clearly communicates her pain to her husband, he refuses to get help. She starts to wonder...Will she never have sex with her husband again? She soon learns that she, too, is capable of such betrayal when she succumbs to the unthinkable. But things that first seemed sweet and reasonable given her painful situation soon produce a bitter taste when combined with the overwhelming guilt. No substitute will ever replace her love and desire for her husband. If only he would touch her like he used to. If only they could make love again. She misses him so much and wants to tell him the truth hoping it will propel him to do something to fix their problem, but she fears his rejection. Yet, she can't continue living such a hypocritical life. She knows it's wrong even though she continues to crave physical intimacy. Steeped in the quagmire of adultery, Hope must find her way back to solid ground to save her marriage. But will she lose everyone she loves in the process?

Available for purchase at Amazon.com and wherever fine books are sold. Also available in e-book for all readers at Amazon, Barnes and Nobles and Smashwords.com

Visit Michelle's blog for the novel to learn more about the characters and story.
http://neverwithouthopethenovel.blogspot.com/

Learn more about Michelle and her novels at http://www.michellesutton.net/

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.