Attention Poets!!! April is National Poetry month and I would like to invite you to join The Urban Book Lounge at The Peoples Lounge in celebration of National Poetry Month. You have to join The Peoples Lounge (it's free), and then after you join, look under groups and there you will find the Urban Book Lounge.

The Urban Book Lounge is a place for African-American Authors, Poets and aspiring Writers. Here we expose the world to reading, writing, resources, interviews, book reviews, self-publishing, and much more.

I've seen tons of great poetry flow through the group, so pull out your best and favorite poem and each week, share one with the group. And if you have it in spoken word format, that's even better! Feel free to upload your audio clip also.

Look forward to seeing you on The Urban Book Lounge!

Hello Iris and thank you for joining me on All the Buzz!

First, congratulations on the publication of your debut novel Praise Your Way Through. Please tell me more about this book.

Praise Your Way Through is a Christian Fiction novel detailing the lives of two women from seemingly two very different backgrounds and the challenges they encounter from day to day. Tamara appears to be a successful, single, free-wheeling sista on top of her game, but secretly she struggles with ghosts from her past. Sheila, though a devoted wife and mother, silently suffers with loneliness from her predictable and boring life. Ultimately she grows tired of her complacent husband and seeks relief, which in time turns out to be much more than she bargains for. When all hell breaks loose the crucial question is will these ladies have the courage and faith to listen to God’s direction or will they simply continue to take matters into their own hands?

What message do you hope to convey to readers?

Merely to inspire them and relay the message of new beginnings. I wanted to unclothe what happens behind closed doors and private lives of everyday people. I believe we are more alike than not and are placed here to assist one another through this journey on earth. I wanted to write a story of hope using the word of God without being preachy! So many people have the impression that you have to be perfect to be saved and that’s the biggest misconception of Christianity. You have to be willing to surrender your way for His way, which is easier said than done. I still run into brick walls from being hard-headed and not seeking His will first!

What is the inspiration behind the writing and publishing of Praise Your Way Through?

To be able to array thoughts onto paper in a way where people can relate and be transformed is a gift. I purposely wanted to use my gift to bless others.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Keeping the storyline and characters interesting. Talk about sleepless nights!

Did you learn anything from this writing experience? If so, what did you learn?

That it’s harder than it looks. I have the utmost respect for authors who have years in the business.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

That’s a hard question. I don’t have an answer for that. Though I love to write, it very much intimidates me. Because I am always comparing myself to the last piece. I’m my own worst critic.

Do you see writing as a career?

Wow! I would love to write full time. I’m open to wherever the Lord leads me.

Who are some of your favorite authors and how do they influence your work?

I enjoy the realness of Victoria Christopher Murray’s books and the colorfulness that Eric Jerome Dickey brings to his characters. I strive to captivate my readers as they do.

What book are you reading now, and would you recommend it to others?

Kindred by Octavia Butler. The author allowed me to mentally travel back in time along with the characters. It was intense!

What are you working on next?

Taste and See, the sequel to Praise Your Way Through.

Thank you again Iris for chatting with me on All the Buzz! I wish you much success in all that you do.

To Love a Stranger

Adrianne Byrd
Kimani, December 2007
$5.99 US, ISBN 0373860447

Rating: 5

Ghosts of the past…

What would you do if your spouse or significant other, who you believed dead for several years, suddenly reappears on your doorstep -- alive and in living color -- wanting to pick up right where you left off?

That’s exactly what happens to Madeline Stone. When her cheating husband Russell’s plane crashed, it was good riddance to bad rubbish as far as Madeline was concerned. Russell’s brother however, refuses to give up hope. And after six years, the impossible happens…Russell is alive, a little worse for the wear, but alive nonetheless.

Needless to say, Madeline is skeptical that he is who they say he is. She’s not happy at all to see the man who caused her so much heartache. But, it’s been said that tragedy has a way of changing a person, and Russell is one changed brother! He’s loving, caring, the perfect father and husband, and he’s very determined to tear down the walls Madeline has built around her heart.

I absolutely loved this storyline! The unexpected twists throughout the story really threw me for a loop, and really enhanced the book.

Whenever I pick up an Adrianne Byrd novel, I know I’m in for a treat. Her characters are always endearing. And even though romance novels are formulaic with regards to the fact that the couple at the beginning of the story will be together by the end of the story, Byrd consistently manages to throw in little surprises that make for an engaging read.

~~Renee Williams, All the Buzz

All the Buzz Book Store

Do you love Amazon as much as I do? LOL I love it so much, I’ve set up an All the Buzz Amazon Book Store! Yep, you heard right. LOL So when you’re searching for the latest releases from your favorite author or if you’re interested in one of the books I feature and/or review, hop on over to All the Buzz and click the link for my book store. Or you can use this link to shop Amazon also. You still get the same security and quality Amazon service that you have come to expect. So help a sista out and shop at the all new All the Buzz Book Store!

Hello ladies! Thank you so much for agreeing to this interview. I have to tell you, Tryin’ To Sleep In The Bed You Made is my absolute favorite novel of all time. I’ve re-read it many times. It was actually one of the first African American novels I purchased. I was so excited to find out that people who look like me actually wrote stories about people who look like me. LOL

Now that my gushing is out of the way, LOL, let’s get started with the interview.

When you published Tryin’ to Sleep In The Bed You Made, did you intend to write a sequel to it, or did this come about as a result of your fans asking for more?

From the moment Tryin’ was published, readers wanted more. They told us how much they cared about the characters and wanted to know what happened next in their lives. People connected with Pat, Gayle, and Marcus—their challenges, triumphs, and their friendship. Such strong identification with a character and their situation is the highest compliment you can give an author, but it’s terrifying when it comes to writing a continuation of their story! Having ten years pass meant there was time for new situations to develop, and children to have grown into young adults. It gave us lots of new material to explore, so we decided to dive in.

How in sync are you when it comes to writing your novels? Do you pretty much agree on all aspects or do you have to compromise on certain aspects?

When we are in the initial talking stages we bring our very different points of view to the story and the characters we are developing—and this stage can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. But by the time we have reached the writing part, we have found the common ground—what we both believe is the right direction and that outline becomes our roadmap. Compromise, trust, understanding and honesty are crucial to our friendship and to our writing process—neither would work without those elements solidly in place. If we reach a point of disagreement while we are writing, we go back to the talking stage and that usually solves the issue. If it doesn’t (and this happens rarely) we always go with whoever’s gut is in it the most—the one with the strongest feelings and we can always tell which one of us that is.

How difficult is it for you to co-author a story living in separate cities?

When we are writing, Donna (who is married) moves in with Virginia (who is not). And depending on the nearness of a deadline she either spends all week there and goes home on weekends, or stays for the duration with an occasional visit home or an occasional visit from her husband.

What is your main reason for writing – to inspire, entertain, educate, or all three?

All three. Sometimes we choose to write about issues because we hear them discussed regularly—like what constitutes cheating in a relationship. Other times we choose topics we haven’t heard anyone mention—like eating disorders in adult women. We try not to be preachy. We just want to show how someone can be affected by a particular problem, and hopefully find ways to overcome it. There’s no question that life is hard—harder for some than for others, and having enough is critical to our wellbeing, but stuff doesn’t bring you happiness—not real joy. oh, we all find momentary pleasure in things, but the real feeling of joy comes from within—from realizing the good things we do have like --- family, friends, health, or simply another day!

Bulimia is not something often discussed in the African American community, at least to my limited knowledge. What was your purpose in having Gayle afflicted with this disorder?

We are always interested in exploring health issues, particularly those that supposedly don’t affect “us”—the African American community. Also, eating disorders are typically thought of as affecting teens and young women, but there are a growing number of more mature women, dealing with the pressures of family, career and staying youthful and slim, who are affected. Whether it is bulimia, or binge eating, there are a lot of us who use food emotionally. Food abuse is an issue that Donna has struggled with during her life—at least since fifth grade, when she started hiding boxes of Drake’s Cakes in her desk drawer at home so she could eat them without anyone knowing. Our aim is always to get people talking, particularly about issues that make us ashamed. Shame keeps us silent, and silence makes us powerless.

In Tryin’ to Sleep in the Bed You Made, Gayle went through a lot of shattering, life altering events, and although with Pat’s help she was able to pick up the pieces and begin to take control of her life, there was no indication that she dealt with the emotional scars, or her guilt at having put her daughter Vanessa through so much. Those pent up emotions have to come out somewhere, but she was trying so hard to appear strong and in control of her life. In Gotta Keep on Tryin’ we had Gayle use food to “choke back” her emotions, to stay in control. But she had always been slim—she used to tease Pat about her weight. She has no interest in appearing fat, so the binge and purge cycle began. Bulimia fit the character, so we went with it.

We were curious how this aspect of the story would be received. So far, we have had both women and men who have acknowledged seeing themselves in Gayle’s struggle.

Are any of the characters in your novels based on people you know?

Readers would be surprised how little of our stories are actually autobiographical or based on folks in our lives. We are always asked which of us is which character—Pat and Gayle especially, and our answer is “neither and both.” Of course, we write from our collective and individual experiences, but we strive to stay away from directly taking from our lives—because that always involves other people too, and we don’t think the lives of our family and friends are fair game. So we use things like locations—cities, houses, apartments, some job experiences. Although we have been know to give a “shout out” by naming a minor character after a friend.

When you write, do you start with characters or plot?

We start by talking about what kind of story we want to tell. What are the themes and situations we want to explore? What sets the action in motion? Once the storyline begins to emerge, we start to shape the characters who will live in this “world.”

When readers read the last word of your novels, what do you hope they take away from it?

We want you to come away from one of our books feeling like you got a good story, feeling like you learned something or that you want to share something.

What has been the one most surprising thing about your literary journey so far?

That’s easy! Our success!! When you sit down to write, you’re never sure whether anyone will understand what you’re saying and want to follow along. You always wonder if readers will continue to want to read what you’re writing. The continued support of our readers is something we truly appreciate and never take for granted.

I think I read somewhere that the TiffiBags will soon be available for purchase. When and where can readers get them? I love bags and purses of all types, so I’m definitely looking forward to getting my own TiffiBag.

They are available on our website: http://deberrandgrant.com

What about the Ell doll and her books? Is that something you also plan to market? How did you come up with Ell and her adventures?

Ell Crawford was Virginia’s imaginary childhood friend, so when we were looking for a character, we chose her. And yes, we would like to explore Ell’s world, both through books and eventually a doll. We’ll keep you posted.

Tiffani was a real piece of work. Will she reap what she has sown in another novel?

We’re thinkin’ about bringing her back—so we’ll see...

What can your fans expect from this dynamic writing duo in the future.

What Doesn’t Kill You, our next novel, will be out January 2009.

Virginia and Donna, thank you again for taking time out of your busy schedule to “chat” with All the Buzz! I wish you continued success in all that you do!

Heyy Eric! Thank you so much for being my first male author spotlight on All the Buzz! I’m a die-hard fan of yours, so it is simply a pleasure to learn more about the man behind Don’t Get it Twisted, Blow Your Mind, Gets No Love, Real for Me, Someone’s In the Kitchen and Lady Sings the Cruels.

First, I know that you were displaced by Hurricane Katrina, which I know had to be devastating. Do you feel that your literary career suffered due to this, or did it encourage you to put even more effort into it?

That’s a difficult question. I think I suffered some setbacks as a result of it, but emerged from it changed and stronger. When looking at the suffering that took place as well as emotional and financial scars suffered by so many, I’m definitely one of the blessed ones. My novel LADY SINGS the CRUELS was begun prior to Katrina when I didn’t realize I would be living before book’s end in the same city where it was set. It was surreal to complete it in my new Texas surroundings.

Are your novels completely fictional, or are they based on real people and events?

For the most part, they’re fictional. I do try to wrap a lot of reality around my characters in terms of locales, events, and the obstacles life may throw at them.

If you could co-author a book with another author, who would it be and why?

Hmm. Wow. The first person who comes to mind is Eric Jerome Dickey as he’s the author who really inspired me to dive into the arena of contemporary fiction. The next person that comes to mind would be my good friend Dwayne S. Joseph as I feel our writing styles really complement one another.

Is there a story that you really want to write, but have not yet, for whatever reason?

Probably my life story. Truth can be stranger and harsher than fiction sometimes. That may be one that I don’t touch. I think I’ll eventually satisfy that sci-fi/action itch or “attempt” to pen some epic tale ala Lord of the Rings.

Are you surprised at the success of your novels?

When I think back to that first book, and knowing that I never set out to be a novelist, YES I am. It always moves me to see the reaction of readers to my words. Of course, that competitive part of me always wants to take it to the next level in terms of readership. I think BLOW YOUR MIND has done a lot towards that.

Have you received many negative reviews, and if so, how you handle the negativity?

You have to have a thick skin if you’re going to be in the public eye. I haven’t received many negative reviews, but realize that you can’t please everyone. You have to look to see if the criticism is constructive or if the story just wasn’t their cup of tea.

We see so many books with the same plots over and over again. Do you believe every story has been told? Have you taken a tried and true plot and put your own spin on it, or do you strive to come up with something that hasn’t been done yet?

Every story probably has been told when you look at it in terms of the history of humanity. What we as writers/artists have to do is take the conventional and put unconventional spins on it. For example, with my second novel SOMEONE’S IN THE KITCHEN, I wanted a book to have a dark, Shakespearean feel to it, but told in a contemporary manner. Sometimes, all it takes is telling a tale from a different perspective to breathe life into it.

What are some writing tips that you would like to share with new writers?

I always beat on the drum to stay positive and to seriously learn the business aspect of being a published writer. Also, there’s always room for growth in your craft.

There have been several authors who have disappeared from the literary scene. Do you think that there may be a time when you will make this decision? If so, what reasons would fuel that decision? Or is your catch phrase “Can’t stop. Won’t stop. Believe that” indicative of your staying power?

With this question, it tells me you’re dialed in to the happenings in this industry. We’re in harsh times where established authors are dropping off faster than I can keep track. A lot of it has to do with the glut of writers on the market, publishers not signing like they used to, and the book business beginning to mirror the music industry (in terms of following what is hot and the pressure to mass produce nothing but the “hot sound” at the expense of all others). Authors’ careers are in the hands of their readers, so if you enjoy reading something, tell another. Numbers dictate so much in terms of what you see on shelves in the future. My catch phrase is indicative of my stubbornness and refusal to give up. These stories will continue to bubble up even without a book deal. That being said, my family and life beyond books are important to me, so I try to keep myself balanced in terms of how I look at everything.

What’s next for Eric Pete?

After BLOW YOUR MIND (which is still in stores!) as well as my contribution to Donna Hill’s anthology ON THE LINE, my next novel (STICKS & STONES) is due in January or February of 09. It should contribute to many a book club conversation when it drops! Just stay tuned to my websites: www.ericpete.com or www.myspace.com/authorericpete .

Thank you again for taking time out of your busy schedule to “chat” with me on All the Buzz. It has been a pleasure and I wish you continued success in all that you do.

Thank you for having me.

Hello and thank you for joining me on all the buzz, chatting about your newest release The Things We Do For Love.

First, it has been a couple of years since your last release. You’re back now, writing Christian fiction under the pen name Xavier Knight. Why the pen name and switch in genres?

The switch in genres was really overdue. I have always tried to weave my Christian faith into my books, though the intensity of the message varied from one story to the next. After THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY, I was ready to tell stories from a more mature place and without limiting the portrayal of spiritual faith in characters’ lives. This move gives me the chance to do that.

The pen name was a call made by my agent and publisher. I think the idea was a new name for a new genre, but eventually the decision was made to promote that I am C. Kelly Robinson for the sake of my loyal readers.

Tell me more about The Things We Do For Love.

This is the story of two women who are faced with terrible betrayals in their marriage, and have to decide whether their Christian faith is leading them to stay with their husbands. Dionne and Suzette’s husbands are lead singers in a gospel group, and despite being sincere Christians each has fallen in a way that brings great scandal to the group.

What did you find most challenging about writing in the Christian fiction genre?

You mean it’s supposed to be challenging (smile)? It was really freeing for me, frankly, to write about characters who are reading scripture and praying to God even as they deal with very real sin in their lives and the lives of those they love. I will say that I had to be more rigorous about using scripture references and communicating a coherent spiritual message than with my other books. Simply spinning an entertaining story is insufficient when you’re trying to nourish the soul.

Are you hoping to expand your fan base by writing in a different genre?

I have really had to move beyond concerning myself with expanding my fan base. One thing I learned after years of touring the country and taking out a home equity loan to fund promotional activity, is that I can’t meaningfully control my sales volumes without promoting full-time and spending money that should now be invested in my daughter’s college fund, not to mention my 401K! I leave the size and shape of my fan base to God.

Will you ever publish under C. Kelly Robinson again?

I expect that I will. For one, the door is opening for me to do some ghostwriting and co-writing, so my nonfiction books at least will carry my “real” name.

Of all of your novels, which is your most and least favorite, and why?

The sentimental favorite will always be BETWEEN BROTHERS. You never forget your first. It still amazes me to recall how thrilled I was when I first drafted that book. I had always believed I would write a book someday, but to know the talent was really there was life-changing knowledge for me. As far as a least favorite, I don’t have one – they’re all special to me in some way and I know I worked hard to make them quality books.

What personal challenges have you faced during your literary career?

The simplest way to answer, is that there is no professional joy I get like that I get crafting a story. From the day the books ship to the stores, though, it gets very challenging. You have to compete with hundreds of thousands of other publications, you rarely get a large promotional or touring budget, and you have three months at best to make your mark. I love writing and will encourage my daughter and any other children to pursue it, but I will also warn them against ever relying on the literary field for full-time, long-term income. Financial security in this business is like winning the lottery.

What is hardest part of writing a novel? What comes first, the character or the plot?

I think honing the plot, especially with respect to management of suspense, is the most important step. Beyond that, the hardest phase is doing that final rewrite, when you’re trying to question everything without becoming paranoid.

What are your thoughts on the African American literary industry? Does it seem like it’s more focused on quantity vs. quality?

I’m probably as conflicted as most of my fellow commercial fiction writers and literary writers when it comes to the prevalence of hip-hop and street books out there. I guess it beats putting a gangsta rap CD in a kid’s hands, but it’s still sad seeing the things readers tend to gravitate towards.

Why do you write, and what inspires your writing?

I write in order to explore the ways that we as humans react to life’s conflicts and challenges. A big inspiration tends to be the conflicts that I and others face in real life – for me, the “fiction” comes in depicting the many different ways in which people react to those conflicts and the resulting consequences. One of the things that keeps me at my desk is the ongoing feedback from readers who thank me for telling stories that help them in the handling of their own life’s challenges. It is a real blessing to greatly enjoy something that serves others that way.

Thank you again for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with me on All the Buzz! It was truly a pleasure! Christian fiction is a favorite genre of mine, and I’ve enjoyed your previous works, so I’m looking forward to reading this new book. Many blessings to you and yours!

It's Two for Tuesday here on All the Buzz! Today's spotlights include a voice we haven't heard from in a while, C. Kelly Robinson who is writing his first Christian Fiction novel under the pen name Xavier Knight. Also in the spotlight is Mr. "Can't Stop...Won't Stop...Believe That" himself, the one and only Eric Pete!

So be sure and check their interviews out!

Okay, so I'm late on posting reviews, but never fear, they're coming. LOL I've been a reading machine...some great, some not so great. I'm just about done reading everything I need to read, well except for the stack of books I picked up from the post office today. LOL After I get all of my required reading done for this month (looking at my calendar with one eye brow raised LOL), I'm not reading another thing until I knock out EVERY review I'm late on. It's been a whirlwind of craziness in these parts, as I'm sure everyone can understand.

Well, let me get back to the job that pays the bills. Hehehe! Hope everyone had a blessed Easter weekend, and that you reflected upon what Easter is really all about.

Lots of love!

Renee

Using the “F” Word on Your “Ex”

By: Cheryl Lacey Donovan

As a single mom, daycare was hard to come by. When the kids were out of school, I had no one to watch them because my mother worked for the school district and many times she had to go to work even though the children were out. On this particular morning, I found myself in that situation.

The morning started out like any other, sunny, hot, and very humid. Such is the life in the great state of Texas. This particular day though, would be a defining moment in my life.

The children didn’t have school that day. They were too young to stay home alone and the daycare didn’t take children for one day. Taking off from work was not an option. So, I was faced with the difficult task of finding a sitter.

Against my better judgment, I took my children to their father who was living with his parents at the time. I drove the fifteen or so miles to their home with butterflies in my stomach. I couldn’t shake the uneasy feeling that I had. (Don’t let anyone tell you that woman’s intuition isn’t real.) I knew something wasn’t right, but I had no choice.

I began to rehearse over and over in my mind what I would do when I got there: drop the kids off at the front door watch them go in, and leave quickly. I didn’t want to give their father the opportunity to get near me. I didn’t want to be placed in a compromising position.

Initially, everything progressed as planned. But, all of the rehearsal in the world could not have prepared me for what was about to happen next.

In my wildest dreams, I never could have imagined that the father of my children could be so calculating, so coldhearted, and so cruel.

I arrived at my in-laws home determined to follow my plan to the letter. I dropped the boys off and watched them step inside. I immediately turned the ignition in the switch and started my car.

As I was pulling away, I heard my husband yelling something to me. I stopped, rolled down the window, and asked him what he said.

“Your mother is on the phone,” He yelled.

Cell phones were not readily available at this time so believing him; I put the car in reverse and parked in the driveway.

I proceeded to the front door with apprehension, but I also knew that I didn’t want to keep my mother waiting.

Once inside the house, I noticed that all of the curtains were drawn and no lights were on. Even in the morning sunlit hours the house seemed eerily dark.

I moved toward the kitchen quickly. I spotted the phone, but what I saw frightened me. The phone was dangling loosely beside the hard and cold countertop. A busy signal chillingly reverberated throughout the room.

I could fell my stomach touch my back. Fear raced over me like a stampede of horses trying desperately to cross the finish line at the Kentucky Derby. My heart was ticking like a time bomb that would go off at any minute. My head was pounding so hard that I thought it would explode. My brain was telling my feet to run, but they didn’t move fast enough. By the time I made it back to the front door it was locked and my worst nightmare was about to come true.

It was like a scene from a horror movie. All of a sudden you feel like you’re in a tunnel and the closer you move toward the door, the further away it seems to get.

I tried to move his five foot eight frame away from the door, but my five foot three inches was simply no match for him. My attempts were useless.

Slowly he inched toward me like a snake about to devour his prey. My mind drew a complete blank as panic set in. I drew a complete blank as I tried furiously to figure out an escape route.

As often as I had been in this house, it never dawned on me that there was only one way in and one way out.

As I tried to run away, he grabbed me and drew me near to him. I could smell the stench of marijuana on his breath. He forced me into his parents’ bedroom clawing and screaming, but it was as if my screams went on deaf ears.

Thankfully, my children were locked away in another room fast asleep.

I scratched, swung, bit; but nothing deterred him from his mission to humiliate me at all costs.

He began pulling and tugging at my clothes, slowly ripping away at my soul with each pull. Eventually he arrived at his destination and had access to what he was looking for. I thought to myself, “Here it comes.”

Suddenly, I thought of my children. What would happen to them if they woke up?

Although their father had never hurt them before, in this state of mind, there was no telling what he would do. I couldn’t be sure.

I also knew that my children would be frightened and confused about the mayhem that was taking place.

I closed my eyes, braced myself, and became silent and still. In my mind, I tried to take myself to another place. I wanted to be as far away from there as possible.

He thrusted and gyrated moaned and groaned until he got tired. All I could think of was when the madness would be over.

Right now, my children were my main concern. They were the only reason that I could withstand what was happening to me right now. Again they were my strength; my courage. I couldn’t bear the thought of them being harmed in any way so, I kept quiet and motionless.

I’m sure that my husband thought he had won. The truth is the depth of a mothers love sometimes goes so deep that even the most tragic of situations can cause her to triumph over adversity for her children’s sake.

After the ordeal was over, I quietly and quickly gathered the children as my husband looked on with a smile of satisfaction on his face. I got back into my vehicle, thankful that at least I had my life. We drove away silently, I was in a daze.

Disheveled, heartbroken, and disillusioned, I called my mother at work and she immediately came home.

A friend of mine, concerned that I had not shown up for work, called me. When I told her what had happened, she too rushed to be by my side.

Together we called the police to report the incident.

“Houston Police Department how may I direct your call,” the voice on the other side of the phone said.

“Yes, I want to report an incident,” I said unable to call it what it was.

“What kind of incident ma’am?”

“An assault,” I replied.

“One moment please.”

The next few moments were almost surreal. I began explaining exactly what had happened to me at the hands of my husband.

“I’m sorry ma’am, but there’s nothing we can do. This is classified as a domestic dispute. We can file a complaint, but that’s as far as it will go.”

After bearing my very soul to this woman, all she could offer me was a complaint filed with the department. Why was the system this way? How could they just let someone get away with an act as heinous as this? It’s just not right! It’s not fair!

These were the first thoughts that I had after I came out of my fog.

Disappointed and inconsolable, I cleaned myself up, changed clothes, and never spoke of this incident again until now. No one except someone who has been through this before could possibly understand how much this entire ordeal hurts.

It can change everything. It can slowly eat up your soul if you let it.

After this, how was I ever to trust another man again? How would I ever be able to have intimate feelings again? How could I trust even my own judgment?

The destructive actions of abuse and its messages threatened to bind me. The guilt and shame that I felt engulfed me like a flame. I struggled not to internalize the destructive messages so that I wouldn’t end up in a place that God didn’t intend for my life. Internalizing the violence caused self blame rather than the ability to see myself in the process of becoming.

You see you struggle everyday to hold on to a little piece of your soul so that it doesn’t end up slipping away completely. My children were a large part of that.

It may sound strange now, but I thank God everyday for my ex-husband (he became my ex-husband many years later when I filed my divorce myself) because he taught me many things. Not the kind of lessons that you can learn in a classroom or in Sunday school, but lessons that can only come from experience, wisdom, and maturity.

Without him, I may never have learned how resilient I could truly be. I would not know the true meaning of forgiveness.

How does one come back from such trauma and forgive? It isn’t easy, but I heard someone say that being unable to forgive is like drinking poison and expecting someone else to die. Not forgiving only hurts you. Usually the perpetrator has long since moved on. You, the victim, are left to become bitter, vengeful, and resentful. If you’re not careful, you’ll find yourself all alone as people slowly away because of your constant inability to maintain healthy relationships.

For me, forgiveness was a conscious decision. It was a choice that I made. Even now, some people don’t understand it. Had not chosen to forgive my life would be on a downward spiral.

Let me make it clear, I didn’t forget what my husband did to me, nor did I deny his responsibility. I simply chose to untie myself from the thoughts and feelings that bound me to the offense. I didn’t minimize what had been done to me. Instead I gave the hurt, shame, disappointment, and humiliation to God. I allowed the Holy Spirit to help me forgive my ex-husband and myself.

Forgiving him enriched my life in ways that no one could ever imagine.

I had to learn to release all of the guilt, anger, and fear to God before I could move on.

Forgiveness however, was not the most important lesson that my “ex” taught me. The most important lesson he taught me, was to know the kind of man that I didn’t want in my life.

Hi Pat! Thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity to interview the one and only Sister Betty!

Speaking of Sister Betty, are you surprised at the success of this character?

I’m a bit surprised by the universal acceptance of this character. I created the Sister Betty persona in the 1970’s. Locally, the character was pretty much well known. It wasn’t until the mid 90’s when I self-published the first Sister Betty short story book that it took off.

When you first introduced Sister Betty, was it done with the intention of turning into a one-woman comedy show?

The Sister Betty One-Woman show was created a long time before the first book was published. It was performed locally and as entertainment for a lot of church programs. Once the books started taking off I had to increase the length and substance of the show. I did so to let readers know that I was not trying to lampoon the church but just hold up a “comedy” mirror so we could change and get back to God’s purpose; the purpose of loving one another in deeds and not just words.

Have you faced lots of criticism from church people who may not agree with the antics of your characters?

Have I faced some criticism; Yes, I have. Has it been wide spread; No, it hasn’t. Most people know many of the characters I portray or write about. In fact, I receive tons of emails and comments from people who had to point the finger at their own lives.

What do you say in the face of this criticism?

When people criticize the “character names” I use, I take it in stride. I pray and ask God for the names and whatever He gives me I use. I didn’t just come up with Sister Ima Hellraiser, Reverend Knott Enuff Money or Deacon Laid Handz out of a box. Each name serves a purpose in exposing flawed Christians. BULLETIN:::: We are flawed!

What lesson do you hope your readers take away from one of your novels?

I want the readers and the people who attend my performances to take away the necessity of our getting back to “Love.” After all, it was Love that went to the cross and Love could have come off the Cross at will; but Love stayed. There are other lessons dealing with gossiping, backbiting, etc. And, of course, I want people to laugh.

Will you ever write a “traditional” Christian fiction novel?

I have traditional Christian stories in my repertoire. However, it’s hard to convince publishers to allow me to deviate while my reader base is growing so rapidly. But the readers will, in the near future, be able to read something a little more serious. Even my current novel, “Somewhat Saved” is a bit of a detour from my normal outlandish comedy. It’s getting great reviews; even from Publishers Weekly. There is talk of it becoming a “collector’s item” and a “must have” for Father/Daughter relationships. But look out for “Adulteress.” It’ll be coming to a bookstore near you.

When you are not being Sister Betty, what does a normal day consist of for you?

No Respect!!! My family still expects me to cook, wash, clean and even take out the garbage.J On a more serious note; I love to write and watch my favorite preachers, (Noel Jones and TD Jakes) on television. I’m a huge Discover, Learning and Animal Planet fan. I’m also a bit of an introvert. I love being alone when I’m alone. And, I love being around people when I’m around people.—go figure J

You’ve been in the limelight for years, first as a singer, and now as a writer? What has that experience been like, and what would you tell aspiring authors and singers?

Wow! I guess I have been in the entertainment arena for quite some time. I come from a family of entertainers. My father was a preacher/pastor/singer and songwriter. One of my brothers played for Motown and Vickie Sue Robinson and for a time the Jimmy Castor Bunch. Another sister, Lorraine, was an Ikette, sang backup for Stevie Wonder and is still singing today. Another brother sang with a group called the Dynamics and there are others. So as for my experience it has been a bit of the good and the bad. Because I loved to sing and perform there were times when I didn’t make good business decisions. However, after a while realization comes to visit and you learn how to navigate the business and walk away with a little dignity and bus fareJ

I would tell aspiring authors and singers to always pray. Ask God to surround you with like-minded people and what is His purpose for their lives. And, they must study their craft… and when that’s done…study their craft. The artistry is always evolving and they must evolve with it without sacrificing their souls and dignity. Seek a mentor; that’s always a good thing.

What are three things that your fans don’t know about you?

Hmmm. 1. I’m a great-grandmother of four. 2. I’m a very loyal and straightforward person. I don’t want people to ask a question that they really don’t want me to answer, honestly. And #3, I suffer from the Peter Pan syndrome. I truly don’t know what I wanna be when I grow up. I’m still on the journey. Although, you asked for three things, I must add one more. I LOVE THE LORD!

Thank you again Pat for chatting with me on All the Buzz! It is a truly a pleasure and hopefully one day soon I can see Sister Betty live and in living color! Many blessings and continued success in all that you do.

Hi Gayle! Thank you for agreeing to chat with me on All the Buzz. I’m a huge fan of both of your previous novels, so it is truly an honor for me to interview you.

Now that you have published your third novel, what are your thoughts on the literary industry, and are your thoughts/feelings different from when you first entered the writing world?

Thank you for having me, Renee, I really appreciate it! Wow, good question. Yes, my feelings are absolutely different from when I first started. I was so naïve back then, that I believed that everyone was my friend and had my best interest in mind. HA! Nothing could be further from the truth. But, everything is in divine order and has happened as it’s supposed to, I guess.

Do you ever question your decision to become a writer? If so, what do you do when those doubts arise?

Sure do! In fact, I was ready to pack it all in not too long ago. My husband talked me off the ledge. And recently, when I had a tribulation, some of my literary angels came to my rescue in ways I would never have imagined and I found out who my REAL friends are.

Since it seems to be hard getting a contract with a major publishing company, what would you recommend to aspiring authors – self-publishing or persevere in the quest for a major publisher?

As soon as I get one, I’ll let you know!

How hard is it come up with story after story, something that you hope will enthrall readers?

For some, it seems relatively easy. For me, it sometimes is hard. I think every story has been told. You just have to find a way to tell it from a different angle or spin to make it fresh.

What has been the response to your first two published works?

For those that have actually read them, good. Between the two books, I have actually only gotten ONE bad review.

What has been your most rewarding experience so far?

Meeting some really cool people, other authors that I admire who have actually become good friends.

Who are some of your favorite authors, and do they influence your writing in any way?

See, now you want to get me in trouble because if I forget somebody, they might catch some feelings! LOL Seriously, Leslie Esdaile Banks, aka LA Banks, Lissa Woodson, aka Naleighna Kai, JD Mason, Tina Brooks McKinney, Michelle McGriff, Victoria Wells, and others are among my favorites and yes, I’ve learned a lot from them and their style of writing.

What is a normal day in the life of Gayle Jackson Sloan?

Working on the plantation, trying to set up signings on the low and occasionally, getting a chance to actually WRITE.

What are three things your readers don’t know about you?

Wow, I don’t know! LOL

Again, thank you for chatting with me on All the Buzz! I wish you continued success and prosperity in all that you do.

Thanks for having me!

Hello Niambi! Thank you so much for “chatting” with me on All the Buzz. I’m a huge romance junkie, so it’s a pleasure to interview an up & coming new author in the romance world.

When did you know you wanted to be a writer?

Actually, I never set out to become a writer. As with a couple of other defining moments in my life, it just happened. I call it the domino effect. A few years ago, I bought a computer and found my way to the wonderful world of African-American literature. That led to an online writing class taught by authors whose work I had read and loved. The story I developed in that class formed the foundation for “From Dusk to Dawn.”

What was your reaction when you received the news that your manuscript had been picked up?

The “call” came in an email. It’s a good thing I was alone, because anyone who saw my face would swear I was having a seizure. Once I recovered, I read the text until it I could recite it verbatim. Then I printed it out and took it to my husband. I couldn’t speak until he read it. And then the celebration began!

How many rejections did you receive before you were picked up?

I believe there were nine, including both agents and publishers. But the constructive criticism in one of those rejections was the roadmap for revisions that ultimately led to my novel’s acceptance.

How long did it take to write your first novel?

I would say four years, because over time I came up with three different and nearly complete versions. This story has had more lives than a litter of cats!

What has been the reaction of your family & friends to your literary journey?

My family knew I was writing something, but they didn’t know I was writing a novel. When I won 3^rd place in the 2003 Romance Slam Jam Aspiring Writer’s Contest, my husband knew I was serious about this writing thing. Each time I’ve had a success, they’ve been my greatest supporters and cheerleaders.

Why did you choose to write in the romance genre? Will you ever venture into other genres?

I was given a box of classic Arabesque novels about the same time I began my own literary journey. I loved those stories – they had a happy ending, and even though there were challenges, nobody was getting slapped upside the head, cursed out or living in their car. That “happily ever after” was the kind of story I wanted to write. Because I love historical fiction, I plan to try my hand in that genre as well.

What or who fuels your passion for writing?

There’s an old Chaka Khan song in which she sings “once you get started…” That’s how it is for me with writing. It has become a part of me, something that I must do, no matter if it’s a journal entry, a short story or an idea for an article. But I have to do it. And then there’s imagination and observation. Some things just beg to be put into words.

How much of your own personal life is reflected in your writing?

In From Dusk to Dawn, you’ll find me in my heroine’s love of sunrise, spring, coffee and the Caribbean. She and I make soap, creams and body balms, a business that we both love. But in some of my short stories you couldn’t find me, even with a magnifying glass!

What’s next in your literary journey?

I have a partially completed manuscript of historical fiction, a story for an anthology, and another script for a digital novella.

Again, thank you so much Niambi for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with me. I wish you success and prosperity in all that you do!

Thank you for your good wishes and thanks for having me on “All the Buzz!”

A Hopeful Romantic

By Shelia M Goss

I’m a romantic at heart. I believe in romance. I believe that there’s the perfect man for the perfect woman and when the two meet, all will be well in the world. At this point, you’re probably like wake up already. No, I’m not living in a fantasy world—romance is alive and well.

Contrary to what the statistics may say (divorce rate is on the rise), women and men still need each other. Women can be independent and wanting a man doesn’t make one less independent. A man can be in a monogamous relationship without the fear of losing himself.

We have to appreciate the differences and embrace them. One good way to enhance our relationships is communication. Communication doesn’t mean just verbal, but other ways to show our mate that we appreciate them.

Some things we just take for granted but when not done can cause a little friction. If you’re not already doing some of these things, try it and see what happens:

· Give your mate your undivided attention. This means that sometimes you need to let calls go to voice mail; turn off the TV; pull yourself away from email and the computer—you get the point.

· Schedule a date night. Whether it’s once a week or once a month, new and old couples need a night just to themselves. If you have kids, find a reliable babysitter. Do what you have to do so you and your mate can keep the flames burning. Keep in tune to what attracted you to your mate in the first place.

· Allow your mate some “me time.” Every now and then we all need to spend time away from our mates—whether it’s to read, a long hot bubble bath, a trip to the spa, hanging out with friends, or just quiet time alone. Believe it or not this can help your relationship.

· Give a card, send an email/text message or make a phone call “just because.” Don’t wait for special holidays or birthdays to show that you care. Do something every week, if not every day to let your mate know you’re thinking of them. And not out of any obligation, but because of your genuine affection towards them.

· Share a part of yourself that you don’t share with anyone else. This helps create a special bond and should bring you closer.

· Make a special CD with both of your favorite songs. Don’t forget to make duplicates so you both can have a copy in your cars (smile).

There are so many other ways to make your relationship stronger, but these are a few simple things that you can do. Remember to take the time to REALLY get to know your mate’s likes and dislikes. Don’t be afraid to cater to their needs. Read together, laugh together, and share a spiritual life together.

Shelia M. Goss is the Essence Magazine Best-Selling author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are thorns, Violets are true, Paige’s Web and Double Platinum. Besides writing fiction, she’s an entertainment writer. For a detailed bio or to learn more about her books, visit her website www.sheliagoss.com or www.myspace.com/sheliagoss.

You know, I've had many conversations with different editors and
agents who freely admit that many publishing houses simply do not
know how to effectively market black authors, especially those of us
who are writing romantic suspense. When I compare my romantic
suspense covers with most of my white contemporaries, the difference
is like night and day. Their covers actually convey suspense and
reflect what the story is about. I think publishers have decided
that black readers will not buy a romantic suspense novel written by
a black author if the cover does not have black people on it, or if
the cover looks too "suspenseful" or "high-concept. " It is a notion
that I find extremely insulting and narrow-minded, and I have been
fighting this misconception ever since I got published, to no avail.

My Kensington editor explained to me that their booksellers don't
want suspenseful covers, unless you are a New York Times bestselling
author (and even some of those authors are not selling as many books
as they used to). What the booksellers claim to want are sexy covers
because, of course, sex sells. I get that. I understand that many
readers will reach for a book with a fine, half-naked man on the
cover over a book with a bloody knife on the cover. (Hell, I still
drool when I see the cover to the BEST MAN anthology. Umph, umph,
umph!) But suppose you're browsing in the bookstore, and you really,
really don't like romantic suspense novels, and you pick up NO ONE
BUT YOU by Maureen Smith, an author you've never heard of before.
You pick up the book because of the chocolate brotha on the cover,
and you're expecting a different kind of story. Wouldn't you feel
deceived after you read the book and realized it was a romantic
suspense, which ain't your cup of tea? Wouldn't you feel misled by
the cover? Now, as an author, I would hope that the reader enjoyed
the book regardless, but I also couldn't get mad if she sent me an e-
mail saying the cover misrepresented the book. That's all I'm
saying. I want publishers to stop putting readers (especially black
readers) into the same one-size-fits- all box. I think it's a shame
that at the end of a glowing review I received from the San Antonio
Express-News, the reviewer had to urge readers not to judge the book
by its cover. He basically said that readers should not make the
mistake of bypassing WHISPER MY NAME simply because of its awful
cover. See what I mean??

--Maureen Smith, author of A Risky Affair

Getting Hers
Donna Hill
St. Martin’s, June 2005
$13.95 US, ISBN 0312281943

Payback is a…

In life, I’m sure we’ve all felt betrayed or wronged by someone or something in some kind of way. Some we feel so frustrated by all that has happened to us, we just want to seek revenge in some shape, form or fashion, from minor to downright evil and deadly. But how many of us actually follow through with it?

Tess, Nicole and Kim, characters in Donna Hill’s Getting Hers, meet by chance when they are trapped in an elevator during a New York City blackout. To pass the time and to keep their minds off their fears, they begin sharing snippets of their lives and the wrongs they’ve endured at the hands of those who they believed loved them.

After the harrowing ordeal is over, the ladies indulge just a little too much in an alcoholic binge. It’s during their drunken stupor that sinister plans are hatched for the ultimate revenge. Tess wants her sister Tracy out of the picture because she is threatening to bring Tess’ very profitable escort business tumbling to the ground. Nicole, aka Nikki, wants her boyfriend Trust to pay for letting her take the fall for a crime she didn’t commit. Kim’s husband Troy is standing in her way of happiness with her new lover, so he’s got to go. From there, Hill takes readers on a gripping, action-packed, jaw dropping journey that keeps you guessing to the very end.

This is actually my second time reading Getting Hers, and I enjoyed it just as much this time around. Hill’s foray into the mystery/suspense genre is a rousing success, proving that no matter what genre she writes in, she is a force to be reckoned with.

--Renee Williams, All the Buzz

It seems to me that if a group in this country isn’t getting a fair shake from the government or from the majority population, the solution is to devote a month to their concerns, achievements or whatever. So far, the principal recipients of this ludicrous policy are African Americans and women. Yes, we black women get it twice, and in consecutive months, no less. Now, I’m enough of a ham to enjoy being celebrated, but I confess that I’m more comfortable with being acclaimed when I’ve done nothing to earn the celebration. By the same measure, my ire is excited when I am celebrated because someone has done something to me and is too cowardly to confess it, to apologize and to make restitution. We all know that Black History Month and Women’s’ month are compensations for this country’s official inequality. I’ve spent a lot of time trying to figure out why no one has established a MONTH for Native Americans.

Some other ethnic groups are clamoring to get in on this month business, and I won’t name them, because my friends are precious to me, and I don’t want to lose any of them. And we had better watch it, because if we are not careful, we may lose the impact that our special month now has on this nation of television viewers. Imagine a whole month of watching black faces in faded black and white pictures, even a few lynchings on television! Think of all the African Americans who are proud of their month. Not that the month isn’t necessary; it is! But that’s because neither public nor private schools adequately represent within the proper context African American contributors to this society. What’s the point in mentioning George Washington Carver’s work revolutionizing southern agriculture in February when it is soon forgotten? Why not teach it when the contributions of chemists to agricultural science is being studied in the regular school curriculum at a time when it will have meaning?

Remember when disadvantaged African American students benefited from affirmative action? People with sense knew it was a modest attempt to compensate for discrimination (including segregated schools, poor and inadequate books and so on), but wouldn’t you know that whites sued in courts declaring that affirmative was unfair. In my state, Koreans (many of whose parents and grand parents receive welfare, SSI, EIC and other assistance, although they have not worked in this country. Some years back, they also received food stamps) and other immigrant groups also considered themselves eligible for affirmative action and fought for it. Were they discriminated against here for over 350 years? Huh? I am not arguing for or against affirmative action, only stating the facts. The Supreme Court watered it down to the extent that it no longer seems to be a sore in the eyes of the “angry white males.” And it also is no longer effective. I wonder what John F. Kennedy, who coined the phrase, affirmative action, would think of the Supreme Court’s response to this example of bigotry in this country.

Back to the matter of MONTHS. Women. Now we’re truly a minority. There are more females than males in this country as there are in all developed countries—barring immigration patterns skewed by gender, but we need a national “month” so people will know what we’re doing and the progress we’re making. I think it must be some kind of joke. In 2006, twenty Fortune Five Hundred companies were headed by women. You see, the rich guys like these very young women, and when the fellows pass on… But that is another matter. We women are not dragging our feet; so, let us continue to celebrate ourselves. The Ivy League universities are mainly headed by women. Women are president of Harvard, Radcliff, Brown University, University of Pennsylvania, and Princeton. Duke University, Ohio State University, the University of Michigan and a number of others have women presidents. Brown University president Ruth Simmons is an African American. For centuries, the good old boys have been patting themselves on the back and lauding themselves for every little thing, both good and questionable. They gave us a month, so let’s use it. But let us remind the powers that be that African Americans and women want justice and equality 365 days every year and not just one month of the year.

Gwynne Forster

Author of Getting Some of Her Own