The Cast from the Web Series, "Unplanned Motherhood"

I want to introduce to you the cast of Unplanned Motherhood. I started this web series with an idea to write a book. My friends kept telling me to write a book based on my family because my five children are hilarious. I must admit they are pretty darn funny. So instead of writing a book, I decided to create a web series based on my life. Each episode is derived from an actual event. Each child in the web series is in some way a version of my own child.

So I want to introduce to you, my children. Well, my "fake" children. And the talented actress that plays my best friend. They are unique and funny and the actors that play them are extremely talented. So welcome them with a hello or stop by one of their social site and wish them luck! They truly deserve it. And don't forget to tune in on March 28th on Youtube!!! You catch a sneak peek now at the bottom of the post. :-)

Stefani Colvin aka Brooke
Stefani Colvin plays Brooke, a twelve year old with a teenage attitude. She wants the protection of her mom, yet wants to assert her own independence. She's trying to find her way as a big sister and a pre-teen, and in doing so, struggles with finding her identity. She wants her privacy, but doesn't understand the concept of giving the same to her mother. Brooke is a funny character because she is the antitheses of what she doesn't want to be.

Stefani Colvin is a smart, creative fourteen year old that loves to sing and act. She is a member of the junior national honor society and a self defined fashionista. She is a child model for Alabama Fashion Alliance and has experience in print and runway. She has been in three music videos and local theater. She loves horse back riding, shopping, photography, outdoor activities and hanging out with her friends.



Aidan Heuer plays Spoon
A ten year old boy with special needs. He is sweet kind hearted soul that only wants to what is fair. What keeps Spoon grounded is the constant need to carry around a spoon that he repeatedly taps on the palm of his hand. He's carried the spoon since he was a toddler, hence the name Spoon. You will love Spoon because what he cares about most is his family and his spoon, and you don't want to mess with either of them. And he has some really great dance moves too.

Aidan Heuer is 11 and likes to remind his mom that he is "almost 12, which is almost a teenager." He will be in the 7th grade next year. Aidan is making his first on screen debut as "Spoon". He has been dancing for numerous local audiences for the last 4 years, as well as modeling for Alabama Fashion Alliance. He enjoys performing on any stage. In his free time he likes playing football (his team went 8-0 and played in the National Championship in Orlando, FL) basketball. He is also a huge Xbox fan. Aidan is a natural comedian and has been entertaining his family and friends since he was a toddler.

Grayson aka Deacon
Deacon is a fast-talking eight year old who thinks he can get the one up on his mom at all times. He also believes he's a lady magnet and seizes every opportunity to drop a pick up line on a cute girl. He is very protective of his siblings. He and Spoon often get into trouble together, with Deacon being the mastermind. Grayson is a funny mischievous character with a charming personality.

Grayson Thorne Kilpatrick became interested in acting after meeting a fellow actor Grayson Russell from Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Grayson was extra on Space Warriors that was filmed Space and Rocket Center. Since then Grayson had been taking Acting Classes at Hollywood Huntsville under Bill and Ayoka Billions. Grayson loves playing Mindcraft, playing football, riding his bike and taking Karate classes under Master Jay at Alexander Martial art. Grayson loves watching Disney XD and Nickelodon, in the fall he love watching SEC College football and a huge fan of Alabama Crimson Tide.


Ari plays Ari
Ari is a percocious five year old who loves playing the role of big sister to her baby sister Sonny. Ari has a bubbly personality and adorable smile. She takes pride in helping her baby sister and her mom. She has a unique style as most five years old do. She insists on dressing herself and often doesn't match her clothes. This five year old is destined to be a fashionista someday. You'll love her bubbly spirit and her stylish choices.

Ari Heuer is 6 years old and will be a second grader next year. This is Ari's first on screen debut and she is very excited to be part of the cast. Ari enjoys dancing, singing playing with her American Girl Dolls and Build a Bear stuffed animals. She also enjoys modeling with Alabama Fashion Alliance. She loves watching movies and spending time with her family and friends. Ari is certainly a spunky out going little sweetheart.


Morgan aka Sonny
Sonny is the baby of the family. She is four years old and has a peculiar way of deciding if she likes someone. She often trails behind Ari and tries to be a big girl. Wherever Ari goes, Sonny is not far behind. The two sisters are inseparable and together can create an adorable mess for their mom to clean up.

Morgan Hamilton is 4 years old. She enjoys dance, singing, school, helping mommy cook, and playing dress up. She has danced since the age of 2. She's funny, loves to talk with a bubbly personality. Also, she loves eating chicken. Lol!! This is Morgan's first time acting and she says, "she loves it!"









Ashley as Sarah
Sarah is Layla's best friend and sister-in-law. She is Layla's rational side when Layla gets a crazy idea. Sarah is a genetic scientist that teaches online classes in order to stay home with her kids. She is married to Marcel, Layla's brother, which often resorts in Layla giving Sarah advice on how to deal with Marcel. The two best friends come up with the craziest theories and often play them out to see who is right. Sarah is smart and intelligent but usually over analyzes most every situation. When Layla wants best friend advice, Sarah often gives medical explanations instead. And when Layla gives Sarah advice, it often backfires on Sarah, resulting in Sarah having to step out of her comfort zone. Sarah's character is the best friend we all have, the one that gets us out of trouble or gets in trouble with you.

Ashley Coughlin grew up in theater and enjoys writing. She studied acting with Ed Crick (Knight Rider) and Regina Moore. She published three books: one softcover under Ashley Hargrove called Beneath the Water's Calm and two Kindle editions under Ashley Coughlin: In the Hands of a Vampire and Just a Bit of a Christmas Miracle. She recently completed an reenactment project for the 700 Club, a couple of short films and continue to improve her craft of acting and writing.

Sweet Mercy by Ann Tatlock

Interview with Eve Marryat (Main character of Sweet Mercy)

by Ann Tatlock

Introduce us to yourself in a few sentences, Eve.

Well, I’m a 17-year-old girl who grew up mostly in St. Paul, Minnesota. I’m kind of embarrassed to admit that, since everyone knows St. Paul is a notorious haven for gangsters. I mean, soon as one of them escapes from prison, they make a bee-line for St. Paul because they know they’ll be safe there. Bank robbers, murderers, kidnappers, bootleggers, money launderers—they’re drawn to that city like flies to honey and the so –called lawmen just turn a blind eye and let them stay (for a bribe, of course) as long as they do their business outside the city limits. Well, I guess this is telling you more about St. Paul than myself. But I’m just glad Daddy moved us away from there.

It must have been kind of scary, living in such a crime-ridden city.

Scary is the word for it, all right. I’ll tell you, the scariest moment of my life was when I saw a man machine-gunned to death. Mother, Daddy and I were walking in downtown St. Paul when a big black car rolled past us with the barrel of a tommy gun poking out the back window and suddenly the man ahead of us was lifted up off the sidewalk in a hail of bullets. In the next moment his body landed in a bloody heap right on the front doorstep of a Jewish deli. That’s why I was glad when Daddy said we were leaving St. Paul.

So why did you leave and where did you go?

Daddy worked a long time for the Ford plant in St. Paul but like a whole lot of other people he lost his job after the stock market crashed. So he decided to move us to Mercy, Ohio, to work with his brother, “us” being him and me and Mother. My older sister Cassandra stayed in Minnesota, thank goodness. She and I have never gotten along very well. I guess we’re just too different. I mean, she spent years going to speakeasies and drinking out of hip flasks and partying all night. I’m not kidding when I tell you she used to dream of being a moll. If she could have married a gangster like Bugs Moran she would have. Just for the fun of it. But of course she got pregnant and ended up marrying someone else. Serves her right.

Do you like where you’re living now?

I love my new home at Marryat Island Ballroom and Lodge! I love this place and I’m so glad Uncle Cy invited us to come live and work here. The island in the Little Miami River is just heavenly. People come from all over the place to stay at the lodge and to swim, picnic and dance on the island. It’s the sweetest place on earth, and no more gangsters like up in St. Paul.

You have one more year of high school, and then what?

I want to go to college. I study hard and I’m a pretty good student. Every year since Prohibition started, the St. Paul chapter of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union has sponsored an essay contest for high school s students and last year my essay won first prize. Anyway, I’m not sure yet where I want to go to college or what I want to be. All I know for sure is that I want to help people and do something that will make the world a better place. Heaven knows, it sure could use some improving.

What about getting married and having a family?

Cassandra says I’m going to be an old maid and whenever she’s mad at me, which is just about all the time, she calls me an ugly duckling and a mean-faced little rat. Maybe I’ll never get married but I tell her better an old maid than a moll! Secretly, though, I hope she’s wrong because I’d like to be in love one day. Maybe I’m not beautiful like Cassandra, but still, maybe someday someone will love me.

What are you passionate about these days?

I’m passionate about keeping the laws of Prohibition and I think everybody else should be too. The government has said no drinking and they mean NO DRINKING! So what does everybody do? People are making gin at home in their bathtubs and moonshine in a million stills out in the woods. And you know what that moonshine’s got in it, don’t you? Rubbing alcohol, embalming fluid, antifreeze and other toxic stuff that was never meant for human consumption. And people drink it anyway! Of course genuine liquor is being smuggled in over the borders and selling it is what’s making the gangsters like Al Capone rich. You tell people not to drink and suddenly everybody wants to drink! I just don’t understand it.

What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

You’re probably not going to believe this, but I met Al Capone and the man was actually nice to me. I mean, really nice. Of course, at the time I was just a kid and I didn’t even know it was Al Capone. If you want to find out how I met him, you’ll just have to read my story in Sweet Mercy.

Tour Schedule

Sweet Mercy

Stunning coming-of-age drama set during the Great Depression and Prohibition

When Eve Marryat's father is laid off from the Ford Motor Company in 1931, he is forced to support his family by leaving St. Paul, Minnesota, and moving back to his Ohio roots. Eve's uncle Cyrus has invited the family to live and work at his Marryat Island Ballroom and Lodge.

Eve can't wait to leave St. Paul, a notorious haven for gangsters. At seventeen, she considers her family to be "good people," not lawbreakers like so many in her neighborhood. Thrilled to be moving to a "safe haven," Eve soon forms an unlikely friendship with a strange young man named Link, blissfully unaware that her uncle's lodge is anything but what it seems.

When the reality of her situation finally becomes clear, Eve is faced with a dilemma. Does she dare risk everything by exposing the man whose love and generosity is keeping her family from ruin? And when things turn dangerous, can she trust Link in spite of appearances?

Barnes & Noble * Amazon * Bethany House

Ann Tatlock

Ann Tatlock is the author of the Christy-Award winning novel Promises to Keep. She has also won the Midwest Independent Publishers Association "Book of the Year" in fiction for both All the Way Home and I'll Watch the Moon. Her novel Things We Once Held Dear received a starred review from Library Journal and Publishers Weekly calls her "one of Christian fiction's better wordsmiths, and her lovely prose reminds readers why it is a joy to savor her stories." Ann lives with her husband and daughter in Asheville, North Carolina.

Website * Facebook * Goodreads

Tour Giveaway



1 winner will receive a copy of 3 of Ann's Books

Sweet Mercy, Travelers Rest and Promises to Keep

Open to US & Canada Only

Ends 5/21/13

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Daynight by Megan Thomason

daynight by Megan Thomason

Meet The Second Chance Institute (SCI): Earth’s benevolent non-profit by day, Thera’s totalitarian regime by night. Their motto: Because Everyone Deserves a Second Chance™. Reality: the SCI subjects Second Chancers to strict controls and politically motivated science experiments like Cleaving—forced lifetime union between two people who have sex.

Meet Kira Donovan. Fiercely loyal, overly optimistic, and ensnared by the promise of a full-ride college scholarship, Kira signs the SCI Recruit contract to escape memories of a tragedy that left her boyfriend and friends dead.

Meet Blake Sundry. Bitter about being raised in Exile and his mother’s death, Blake’s been trained to infiltrate and destroy the SCI. Current barrier to success? His Recruit partner—Miss Goody Two Shoes Kira Donovan.

Meet Ethan Darcton. Born with a defective heart and resulting inferiority complex, Ethan’s forced to do his SCI elite family’s bidding. Cleave-worthy Kira Donovan catches his eye, but the presiding powers give defect-free Blake Sundry first dibs.

Full of competing agendas, romantic entanglements, humor, twists and turns, daynight is Megan Thomason’s debut young adult dystopian novel and first in the daynight series.

Purchase

Amazon

Praise

“Sure to win over YA readers looking for a dangerous, dystopian adventure story” —Kirkus Reviews
“Gripping young adult dystopian novel; compelling conflicts; high stakes; powerful narrative; surprises keep coming; strong writing; page-turner; engaging characters; Readers will be hungry for the sequels.”—BlueInk Review (starred review)

“The writing is impressive and the story is a real page-turner. So many twists and turns… I’m hooked… I can’t wait for the next installment to come out…4.5 out of 5 stars”—Self-Publishing Review

“Delicious humor, intelligence, and sparkling dialogue” —Amazon reviewer

“Strangely brilliant and imaginative”—Amazon reviewer

“Grips you from the first page and keeps you wanting more”—Amazon reviewer

“Plot twists kept me reading till late at night”—Amazon reviewer

“Every page a thrilling experience”—Amazon reviewer

“Hooked from the first chapter and could not put it down”—Amazon reviewer

“It's like a CW fantasy TV show in a book with a really interesting environment.”—Amazon reviewer

“I'm a little tired of dystopian novels, but Daynight has a unique and fresh story line that didn't have any trouble keeping my interest.”—Amazon reviewer

Author Megan Thomason

Megan Thomason lives in paradise aka San Diego, CA with her husband and five children. A former software manager, Megan vastly prefers writing twisted tales to business, product, and marketing plans. When she isn't typing away on her laptop, she's reading books on her phone—over 600 in the last year—or attending to the needs of her family. Megan’s fluent in sarcasm, could potentially benefit from a 12-step program for road rage, struggles with a Hot Tamales addiction, loves world travel & fast cars and hates paperwork & being an insomniac. Daynight is Megan's first published novel, but fourth written one.

 Twitter * Goodreads * Facebook

Tour Schedule

Blog Tour Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card
Signed copy of Insurgent by Veronica Roth
Signed copy of daynight

Ends 2/7/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

For What It's Worth by Karey White

For What It's Worth by Karey White


Twenty-four year-old, Abby Benson has dreams of owning her own wedding cake shop. An inheritance from her aunt gives her the ability to make those dreams come true. She hires Dane, a handsome contractor, to help her get the bakery up and running and soon they’re moving toward their own happy ending.

Unsure what to charge for her cakes, Abby has a crazy idea to let the customer decide what they think their cake is worth. This plan has its ups and downs, but the novelty of the idea makes her a local celebrity. When she is interviewed on television about the unusual idea, business booms and Abby has cake adventures she never dreamed possible. But as her fame grows, Abby is swept up in a whirlwind that threatens everything she values. With the challenges that face her, will she be able to determine what is worth the most?

Praise for For What It's Worth


Reading Karey White’s books, like eating chocolate cake, is always satisfying and brings a smile to my face. For What It’s Worth is light, romantic, and delicious. It’s a great pleasure read. Sit down and get lost in the charming world of wedding cakes and love. As an added bonus, each chapter  starts with a recipe, so it’s a novel and cookbook all in one. A fun read!
—Teri Harman, KSL columnist, Studio 5 contributor, and author of Blood Moon, available June 22, 2013

I just loved the book – loved it. Hated putting it down and hated finishing it. Karey White is my new Maeve Binchy, her writing as warm as the bakery her novel is set in. For What It’s Worth surprised me, made me smile, say “no” out loud in a public place. I love when a character feels like my sister. I didn’t want to finish it, so now I may try the recipes that began every chapter.
—Amanda Dickson, author and radio personality

This book oozes charm, romance, and mouth-watering recipes. If you want to escape reality and curl up with a darling story, For What It’s Worth is the perfect fit. Thank you, Karey White!
—Rachael Anderson, author

This is a book worth every penny of the price. In the business of baking wedding cakes, every detail must be perfection, but this story remembers that real life is oh-so-messy. White’s clear and honest writing left me hungry for good food, a close family, and a little romance. A beautiful marriage of food, family, and faith.
—Regina Sirois, author of On Little Wings, 2012 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award

Purchase

Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Book Trailer

Author Karey White


Karey White grew up in Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and Missouri. She attended Ricks College and Brigham Young University. Her first novel, Gifted, was a Whitney Award Finalist.

She loves to travel, read, bake treats, and spend time with family and friends. She and her husband are the parents of four great children. She teaches summer creative writing courses to young people and is currently working on her next book.

Links

Website * Twitter * Facebook 

Blog Tour December 2012

Tour Schedule

Book Blast Giveaway Details
$50 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal Cash from Author Karey White
Ends 12/14/12
*You need not enter your twitter name for each entry. Simply enter it when you follow Karey and leave the others blank.


Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Do's and Don'ts of a Literary Journey by Vickie Hall

Vickie is the author of Secrets of the Red Box. She is a native of Utah, but growing up, lived in the states of Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Nebraska. When she is not writing, she's composing music, or shopping with her sister. She loves animals of all kinds and camping with her family. Her favorite pastime is watching old movies on TCM, and unashamedly has a crush on Cary Grant. She is also the author of the book, All That Was Promised.

Secrets of the Red Box
Bonnie has secrets to keep- secrets with the potential to destroy lives, including her own. Running from her destructive and pain filled past, she recreates herself, believing sh has escaped the damning evidence hidden in the red box. When her former life is revealed by a cruel twist of fate, Bonnie faces losing everything, including Glen, the only man she's ever loved. But is Bonnie the woman he thinks she is? Set against the backdrop of the 1940's, Secrets of the Red Box is filled with intrigue and suspense- sure to keep you guessing to the very end!

5 Do's

1. Keep writing, no matter what.

2. Marketing is essential to your success, but find what works for you.

3. Continue to hone your craft - you can always learn something new that will make you a better writer.

4. Seek honest critiques of your work - family and friends are too nice.

5. Always keep a supply of your favorite snacks handy when writing.

5 Don'ts

1. Don't go to a book signing and just sit - you have to engage your potential readers with conversation and interaction.

2. You don't need an agent or a publisher to be a successful writer in today's world.

3. Don't be shy about your writing - tell everyone you meet to check out your work.

4. Don't let a publisher take advantage of you - read a contract very carefully and seek legal advise if necessary to fully understand what you're signing.

5. Don't self-edit your writing - by that I mean, write as freely as you can, without too much interjection of your; inner critic. You can always go back and revise, edit, and change, but doing so while you're writing can sometimes diminish the impact.

5 Books every aspiring author should have on their bookshelf and why?

1. The Power of Point of View by Alicia Rasley

This is a great resource for discovering what perspective works best for you, or for the genre you write.

2. Characters & Viewpoint by Orson Scott Card
This book really helps define what makes a great character, how to raise the emotional stakes, transformations and why your characters need to change.

3. A copy of the book that made you want to be a writer

4. The Elements of Style by Strunk and White
Still a useful resource, with usage and composition rules, commonly misused words and expressions, and the Approach to Style section is great.

5. Writing on Both Sides of the Brain: Breakthrough Techniques for People Who Write by Henriette Anne Klauser PhD
Left brain is analytical, mathematical, straight line thinking. Right brain is creative, uncensored and free.Tapping into the right brain can open avenues of writing you might never have considered.

You can continue to follow Vickie's journey at the following:

Blog

Website

Facebook

a Rafflecopter giveaway

KaPow! I'm a 5 Time Black Weblog Award Nominee

I've been happy dancing for some time. As I mentioned before, I was on hiatus this past summer due to health reasons. But in the midst of my recuperation a lot of positive things happened. I was nominated for an African American Literary Award for my book, If I Had My Way. I won't find out if I've won until the awards ceremony being held in New York on September 27, 2012. Keep your fingers crossed and wish my good luck. I also want to thank ALL of you that took the time to vote for me. I truly appreciate the love and support.

I have also been nominated five times for the Black Weblog Awards. I am nominated in the following categories: Best Book or Author Blog, Best Blog Post Series, Best International Blog, Best Personal Blog and Best Blog for Writing. You can win an award two ways, by judges vote and by public vote. Public voting began on September 15th and you can cast your vote for me on the Voting Ballot.

The BWA was founded in 2005 to give recognition to Black bloggers (and those of the African diaspora) which were largely overlooked by other Internet award events online. What started out as a barely-known event has now grown into an international showcase. With participants from over 90 countries, the Black Weblog Awards stands out as one of the most widespread Internet award events for Black bloggers.

To date, the Black Weblog Awards has recognized nearly 180 blogs in over 30 categories. The Awards has also been featured in several mainstream and online media outlets, including NPR, CNN, and others. Winners of the Black Weblog Awards have also went on to appear in other media outlets, like MSNBC, the Huffington Post, BET, and many others.

A big thank you to those that nominated me, those that voted for me and those that will vote for me. I couldn't have gotten this far without your support. A humongous hug from me to YOU!!!

Carmen Davenport Interview by Author Vogue

Vogue, born April L. Blanding, is a 2007 graduate of Winthrop University possessing a Bachelor's degree in Social Work. Born and raised in Greenville, SC, Vogue moved to Rock Hill, SC in 2003 to attend Winthrop University and decided to make it her home after graduating.

Upon entering college, she began focusing her attention on songwriting, but eventually birthed the idea of The Diamond Collection. In 2003, she challenged herself to write ten novels with the first being Diamonds in the Rough, which was not completed until 2007.

In March of 2010, Vogue signed with Passionate Writers Publishing to release her first novel, Diamonds In The Rough. Currently, she is writing and editing Black Diamonds, the fourth book in the series.

Carmen Davenport is living the American dream. Born with a silver spoon in her mouth, she has anything that a twenty-one year old college student would want. This includes an inheritance to one of the most lucrative clothing companies in New York. The only thing missing is love until she lays eyes on Jay Santiago, a Puerto Rican drug lord. During their courtship, Carmen learns that Flame, Inc. is headed towards a downward spiral. Too ambitious to allow her dream to go down the drain, Carmen begins pulling at all lifelines to save her company. Putting aside everything she’s ever believed in, Carmen soon finds herself entangled in a web of lies, betrayal, and crime.

Character Interview with Carmen Davenport

Vogue: When we are first introduced to you, you come across as a sheltered young woman with strong values and morals until you become romantically involved. Why do you believe that some women, including yourself, allow themselves to sink so far into a relationship that they sometimes lose themselves?

​Carmen: Well, first off, I don’t believe that the decisions that I made were a direct reflection of the relationship I was in. My boyfriend was a drug dealer, but he wanted to protect me from his business not get me involved. Being twenty-one years old, I know right from wrong and am able to make my own decisions even if I don’t always make the right choices. However, with some women, there is the fear of being alone, which forces them to stay in unhealthy situations. Everyone wants to be loved and feel accepted, which is why some women believe that a part of a man is better than no man at all. Those are the women who run the risk of losing themselves because of their relationship.

Vogue: So what kind of influence did your boyfriend have on you if you don’t think it was negative? Let’s keep in mind that you were dating Jay Santiago who ran one of the biggest drug cartels in America.

​Carmen: Jay showed me a different side of life. My parents kept me protected from everything. I grew up in a wealthy neighborhood and all I knew was school and church. When I met Jay, he shared things with me that I thought only happened in the movies. He had seen so much starting at an early age that a lot of things were second nature to him. It is because of his childhood that he has anger and trust issues. When I betrayed him, these issues just went to a level ten. To be honest, I had more of a negative effect on him than he did on me.

Vogue: Well, did he influence you business-wise? You both are entrepreneurs. You inherited your mother’s clothing store, Flame, and he owns a club, Sapphire, which are both located in Brookstone, New York. What advice do you give to people who are looking to be their own boss?

Carmen: ​The first thing I generally tell people is that you have to be an ambitious and determined individual. That is a given. That is also something that Jay taught me. He wanted to see me work harder for the store, which is why he refused to give me any money or become a silent partner. You also have to know your market. Fashion and trends change all the time. You have to keep up with it and study your craft. As long as you keep giving quality product and service, the people will come.

Vogue: Inheriting a failing business that was headed to bankruptcy had to be hard. You said that all you knew growing up was school and church. Where was your faith during this time? Was it nonexistent?

Carmen: ​You can describe it as being nonexistent. I was blind during that time. All I saw was the goal I was trying to reach and I got lost in this new world I was experiencing. There were times when I did think about what I was doing and I told myself that I was going to stop. I just never did until it was too late. Now that I think about it, I didn’t have any faith. I took matters into my own hands instead of waiting on God. From going through that experience, my faith has definitely grown. If it wasn’t for God, I wouldn’t have made it out.

Vogue: What do your parents say about your current situation?

​Carmen: Initially, they were very upset because they knew they raised me better. They had moved to Dallas so they were unaware of everything I was involved in. My mother did have her suspicions, but she never expected for things to end like it did. Since, I’m their only child, they supported me, but I knew I had disappointed them. Right now, I’m just working to gain back their trust.

Vogue: Speaking of trust, you said your actions affected your boyfriend’s trust issues. Where does your relationship stand right now with Jay? Are you working to gain back his trust?

Carmen: Due to our current situation, we do not speak. We don’t have any communication. I would like to apologize and have a conversation with him, but at the moment, it is not possible.

Vogue: What do you want people to get from your story?

Carmen: I don’t want people to view my story as the answer to how they need to reach their goals and dreams. I don’t want people to make the same mistakes that I did. I don’t have any regrets because all of my experiences have helped me to make me a better person, but I will never people to do what I did. I want people to see my ambition, take that, and use it in a positive manner.

------------------------------------------------------------

What do you think of Carmen Davenport? 

Diamonds in the Rough can be purchased from:
Passionate Writer Publishing
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Books A Million
Vogue’s official website: www.simplyvogue.net

Raymond Clark Interview by Denise Turney w/ Giveaway

Denise Turney, has over 36 years of writing experience. She is a full-time writer whose works have appeared in: Essence, Ebony, The Network Journal, Madame Noire, Bahiyah Woman, Today's Black Woman, Parade, Sisters In Style, Your Church Magazine, and Modern Dad Magazine to name a few. Denise has spoken at major festivals, conferences, colleges and universities, including Black Herstory, Spelman College, Emory University, Take Our Daughters to Work Day, Philadelphia Bible College and the Philadelphia Community College. She is a newspaper and magazine columnist and the editor of the literary periodical  The Book Lover's Haven  which you can subscribe to by clicking Subscribe BLH.
Denise host the international radio program Off The Shelf which airs on Blog Talk Radio live from 11AM-12PM on Saturday and 24/7 throughout the rest of the week. She has interviewed  New York Times  bestselling authors like Zane, Francis Ray, Roland Martin, Omar Tyree and Tracey Price Thompson and Grammy Award nominee, Awiatka.

Interview with Raymond Clarke, of Love Pour Over Me

Denise: How are you able to love Brenda so deeply considering the fact that your mom, the most important woman in a man’s life, left you?

Raymond:  If you’ve ever known something was right deep in your gut, you’ll understand when I tell you I knew, I instinctively knew, Brenda was my woman. Despite all we went through, nothing could disturb that.

Denise: Did you ever go looking for your mother? 

Raymond:  (Sigh). No. I thought about her a lot, especially when I was a kid, but I never took off and starting looking for my mom. I wouldn’t even have known where to start.

Denise: Why did you choose UPemb? 

Raymond:  Coach Carter (he’s probably the closest thing I had to a loving father) and the school’s awesome track and field program. Track is my passion. Thank God, I’ve been very good at the sport since I was a kid. Plus, I got a scholarship to UPemb and with Coach Carter’s help I know I can earn a gold medal in the Olympics.

Denise: You hang out with a cool group of friends. What do these guys mean to you? 

Raymond:  Oh, man. Anthony, Patrick and Doug, these three dudes are my brothers. Sure. We’ve had our close calls, especially me and Anthony. The two of us have damn near cheated death and more than once. But we always work things out. I love those dudes. They’re like family. (shaking his head) We have some good times together! Our ladies get along pretty good with each other too, well. . . most of them.

Denise: Do you keep in touch with your friend from high school, the guy you ran with back in the day?

Raymond: If you’re talking about Paul, no. We don’t see each other that much. I don’t even know if I’d recognize him if I saw him today. Life happens so fast, you know.

Denise: What’s Anthony up to these days? 

Raymond:  (chuckles) Aw, he’s doing his thing in the NFL. He always had it in him. Too damn bad we had to keep that secret for so many years. It got to be a heavy weight, but, yeah . . . to answer your question, Anthony’s good. He even got married.

Denise: Still go big dreams, Raymond? 

Raymond:  Yeah. I definitely want to marry Brenda and have a family. And after the Olympics, I’d love to run Master’s Track. It’s in my blood. But, we’ll see. Already so much has happened sometimes I wonder how I get through many days. But, yeah, I’ve still got big dreams. The hard times aren’t gonna beat the life out of me. I’ll keep pushing . . . I’ll keep pushing forward. God, Brenda’s love and my boys . . . it’s enough. I swear it is.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To stay up to date with Denise Turney visit her at the following: 

Official Website:  

Blog 

Amazon 

Barnes & Noble  

Ebookit

What do you think of the character Raymond Clarke?

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

To Enter the Giveaway:
Just fill out the Rafflecopter form. Giveaway is open to U.S. residents and International participants.
*If you decide to Tweet about the giveaway, you do not have to copy and paste the url back into the Rafflecopter form. It's a hassle and not necessary, I will receive a notification once you tweet it anyway.*

What's up for grabs?
(1) Grand Prize: $25 Amazon gift card or up to $25 in purchases from the Book Depository.

(5) Runner Up Prizes: Each will receive one copy of Love Pour Over Me. If you are an international winner, you may receive a Kindle version copy depending on your location and shipping costs.a Rafflecopter giveaway

We're All in This Together by Jessica Scott

Today we have a guest post by author, Jessica Scott. She has written two contemporary romance novels, titled Because of You and Until There Was You. Please help me welcome Jessica Scott as she shares her wisdom on how we as authors, bloggers and readers can hang in there together in this literary world. Make sure and leave her a comment. :-)

Bio: Jessica Scott is a career army officer, mother of two daughters, three cats, three dogs and two escape-artists hamsters, wife to a career NCO and wrangler of all things stuffed and fluffy. She has commanded two companies, served in Germany, Korea, Fort Hood and Iraq, and been lucky not to get fired. She is a terrible cook and an even worse housekeeper, but she’s a pretty good shot with her assigned weapon. Somehow, her children are pretty well adjusted and her husband still loves her, despite burned water and a messy house.

You can find her online:

Website

Facebook

Twitter and Goodreads 

It seems like every other week,  there has been a huge dustup between authors and bloggers or readers and authors or bloggers and readers. It’s rather sad and depressing because I think - or at least I’d like to think - that we’re all book people.

I’m an author but I’m a reader first and foremost. Nothing hurts my heart more than picking up a book I thought I’d love and having it lose my interests. But what do I gain by going on Goodreads or Amazon and telling the world how another author couldn’t write their way out of a paper bag? What I try to do instead is figure out what didn’t work for me. I don’t need to tear another author down because, here’s a little secret: we’re all crazy. :-) I don’t need to make another author crazier by telling people why I didn’t like their book. Posting something on goodreads is not the same as working with another author to beta read their stuff.

Constructive criticism vs public flogging. See the difference?

So in the interest of talking about something positive, let’s talk about what authors, readers and bloggers can do to work together to build a community around what we all love: books.

Authors:
The first thing we authors need to do is accept that everyone is not going to like our books. Nora Roberts said it best at RWA 10: Person A is going to love your book for the same reason Person B is going to want to burn it. Get over it (that was me not Nora). At the end of the day, don’t try to defend your book. It’s cool if people enjoy your book. If someone writes a review, feel free to like that review. But do not, I repeat do not, go on Goodreads, Amazon or any other site and take on readers.

Do, however, try to interact with your readers. Pick a forum. Pick an venue. But do something to interact with the people who buy your books. We’re not simply a means to a sale. We’re all people, looking for good stories to share.

Bloggers:
There is nothing better than finding a book blog that shares what they love about great books. A blog that helps foster community. If you like an author the best thing you can do is tell your friends because in the age of noise of scioal networks, the best way for authors to break out of the pack is to help them be heard.

Readers:
If you love an author, write them a note. Not everyone can answer an email but speaking for myself, when I get an email or a tweet or a facebook post, I do my best to answer it. It makes my day. Another great way to support your favorite authors: write a review. if you truly enjoyed a book, tell your friends. Share the good book awesomeness because ultimately, it’s what my friends tell me about a book that they enjoyed that makes me pick it up.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jessica's current book Because of You is available now and her upcoming book, Until There Was You, is available October 8, 2012 and available for pre-order. Jessica is currently running a giveaway on her website for a $25 Amazon gift card and free signed copies of her books. Please stop by and enter TODAY! Click HERE to enter.

Creative Marketing Ideas for Authors

A couple of weeks ago, I shared with you my upcoming workshops with the Alabama Writers' Conclave and the Alabama State Poetry Society being held July 20 -22, 2012. I'll be conducting two workshops. The first one is titled, Low Cost Creative Marketing Strategies. In this workshop we will discuss ways to market your book creatively and on a budget. I often come across aspiring authors who think once they publish their book, they'll instantly sell millions of copies, major publishers will come knocking at the door and they'll walk into a major bookstore and see their book on the New York Times Bestseller List. Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. Marketing is not something that often produces results overnight. It takes work, lots and lots of hard work and a lot of effort and consistency. Some of the ideas listed may not be right for your work and you will likely need to try a combination of ideas to see results. Just remember to keep track of what worked and what didn't and don't give up. Do something everyday to get your book noticed or read.

Marketing Ideas for Your Books

• Know the optimal publishing date for your book. College textbooks, cookbooks, calendars and diet books need to be published at a different time than most novels.
• Business Cards (carry them everywhere you go)
• Bookmarks (keep several on hand, leave several at bookstores and cafes)
• Join trade associations (Association of American Publishers, NAIP, SPAN & IBPA)
• Attend Trade Shows (Book Expo of America and ALA aka American Library Assoc.)
• Newspaper Ads

• Radio Spots
• Personal Letters
• Vanity Phone Number
• Professional Web Address
• Professional Website
• Start a Blog
• Postcards
• Forums
• Radio appearances
• Email Signatures
• Landing pages for your website, blog, etc
• Pay-per click ads
• Collaborative ventures
• Podcasts
• Video tutorials

• Books
• Ezine ads
• Reciprocal link exchanges
• Google AdWords (pay to be linked to specific key words in Internet searches)
• Public Service Announcement
• Free seminars
• Free workshops
• Speak at Schools, Churches, Book fairs, Colleges, Business Luncheons, Non-profit organizations, Rotary Club, Kiwanis, the Lions, Sororities, Fraternities, Alumni Associations, Chamber of Commerce, Writing Groups, etc
• Have Free Readings
• Become Friends with the Competition
• Publish Articles
• Webinars
• YouTube Channel
• Give Speeches
• Judge a writing or poetry contest
• Coupons
• Giveaways
• Guest Posting on other Blogs
• Bartering Services
• Create Folders of Favorites on Pinterest.com (You can create a folder of favorite book covers, favorite characters, etc. Include your book in some of the folders.)
• Submit Books to Book Sites and Blogs (bookblogs.ning.com)
• Newsletters
• Write a Column
• Write an article
• Send an editorial to the newspaper
• Free trials
• Free eBooks
• Presell your books

• Sell Your Books Door to Door (people get to meet an author and get it autographed)
• Have an Easy to Remember Email Address
• Give Away Sample Chapters
• Join Press Associations
• Submit Press Releases
• Solicit Book Reviews
• Get to Know the Librarians
• Sponsor a Contest
• Sponsor an Award
• Sponsor a Scholarship
• Attend Trade Shows
• Attend Writing Conferences
• Have an Attractive Book Cover
• Book Tours
• Virtual Book Tours
• Sneak a copy on a retail store shelf at airport gift shops, hotels and tourist shops. The store may sell it unknowingly and order more or if nothing else, someone read your book and may spread the word.
• Serialize Your Books or Create a Series
• Use Actual Stamps (People generally throw away junk mail unopened)
• Submit for Literary Awards and Honors
• Provide Free Waiting Room Copies
• Submit for Book Cover Awards
• Solicit for Blog Interviews
• Have a Launch Party
• Donate Books to Charity Events
• Be an Expert in Your Field

• Offer Free Shipping
• Product Placement on TV Shows and Movies (Creative Entertainment Services and UPP Entertainment Marketing)
• Participate in Local Theater (After the performance, you can sell your books and take photos)
• Send copies to Advocates

• Create a Fan Club
• Create a Facebook Fan Page
• Create a Twitter Account
• Direct Mail
• Include Sticker Bookplates with Books
• Use Classified Ads
• Submit Your Book to Home Shopping Network or QVC
• T-Shirts (walking billboards)
• Buttons
• Notepads
• Custom Book Bags
• Movie Theater Commercials
• Attend Book Festivals and Fairs
• Teach People to Do What You Do
• Have a Home Book Party

• Become a Consultant
• Register with Speaking Bureaus
• Speak at Churches
• Speak on Cruise Ships
• Get a Celebrity Endorsement, Blurb or Foreword
• Reply to Your Email
• Create Listmania List on Amazon.com
• Become an Expert on Amazon.com
• Write Reviews about Books and Products on Amazon.com
• Follow Up on Books Sold (send a thank you card a few weeks later)
• Promote Books to Local Bookstores, Gift Shops or Small Secluded Shops
• Mail Your Catalog or List Directly to the Book Buyer of a Bookstore (for a list of top 700 Independent Bookstores, contact Open Horizons at www.bookmarket.com)
• Sell to Places Other Than Bookstores: Supermarkets, Auto Part Stores, Banks, Beauty Salons, Drug Stores, Pet Stores, Gourmet Shops, Toy Stores, Arts and Crafts Stores, Fitness Centers, Museums, Newsstands, Novelty Shops, Office Supply Stores, Prison Commissaries, Travel Agencies, Tourist Shops, Stationery Stores, Print Shops, Hospital Gift Shops, Florist, Military PX’s and Discount Stores

Do you have any marketing ideas to share? 

Feel free to share this list, just please make sure to link back to my blog or give credit. 

Wordless Wednesday with Linky

Carl Weber: The Family Business

I recently went to a book signing for Carl Weber and Eric Pete for their book collaboration, The Family Business. It was a great event. Carl Weber is an excellent speaker. He spoke about his journey to publication and the inspiration behind each book. Carl Weber said that his books derive from personal experience either directly or indirectly. Which I suspect is how most writers get their inspiration. It was a nice turnout considering it was Superbowl Sunday. Overall, it was a great event and I look forward to reading my copy of The Family Business.

By day, the Duncans are an upstanding family who run a thriving car dealership in Queens. By night, they live a dangerous secret life! Carl Weber and Eric Pete deliver a thrilling underworld drama in The Family Business.L.C. Duncan, patriarch of the family, is at the age when he’s starting to think about retirement in sunny Florida. But the recession is taking a bite out of the business and, worrying more, he has to decide which of his children should take over. When his workaholic son Orlando gets the nod, Orlando’s siblings—including the favorite son Vegas, conniving daughter London, glamorous party girl Paris and flamboyant nightclub owner Rio—are up in arms. But so are the Zunigas, a rival family whose fragile business alliance with the Duncans may explode at any moment.When Vegas suddenly breaks away from the family, London’s lawyer husband, Harris, makes a play for the company and all hell breaks loose. Selling cars, it turns out, is only a small part of the Duncans’ family business. Each member of the family has a secret expertise to reveal. And now, under siege from the Mafia, Mexican drug cartels and the Zunigas, the Duncans will have to stick together—or die separately!

Valentine's Day Books With Love Giveaway

This hop is where we share all and any books that have to do with LOVE. The giveaways in this hop will have a theme of romance or love or they may be gift cards or books from The Book Depository. 

This hop will run from February 14th until February 19th. Winners should be announced on the 20th. Giveaway is opened to U.S and International participants.

• The winner will receive a $20 gift card from Amazon.com or up to $20 in purchases from The Book Depository. 
• To enter, just sign up for my newsletter. All other entries on the Rafflecopter are optional. If you decide to Tweet about the giveaway. You DO NOT have to paste and copy the url back into the Rafflecopter. It's not necessary and it's more of a hassle in my opinion. I will get a notification that you tweeted it if you decide to Tweet.

Sign Up For My Newsletter by Email  

Don't forget to stop by and visit the other blogs participating in the hop. There are some great prizes to be won. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway