SCBookGal & Friends
Book reviews from avid book readers. Most reviews are of African American novels; fiction and nonfiction. From children's to adult's. Our reviews are seen across the world thanks to Aspiring Authors Magazine.
Sunday, December 3, 2023
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
Author Profile: Kisha Green
Kisha Green
Kisha Green is a Jane of all trades whose mantra is "turning literary dreams into published realities." She has a strong passion for assisting authors in writing and achieving their goals as she serves as a Certified Life Coach, Literary Consultant, and Author Distribution Coordinator. Kisha began her career in 2006 with the debut release of the fiction novel And Even If I Did. To date, she is the Author of several books and short stories. She also hosts the award-winning literary radio show Writer's Life Chats and is the creator of Digital Foreplay, a dating and relationship podcast. In addition, Kisha is a book reviewer who has published reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, Shelfari, Urban Book Source, and other notable sites. She is also an award-winning blogger for her literary site, Literary Jewels.
In 2018, Kisha was nominated 2018 for a Woman's Worth Boundary Breaker Award for her commitment to helping others pursue their literary dreams and her neighborhood through volunteer work. 2017, she was recognized as Literary Promoter and PR Person of the Year. In 2016, she was nominated for Literary Activist by the AAMBC Literary Awards, 2015, as Self Published Author of the Year by the AALAS. She was the proud recipient of the 2014, 2015,2016, and 2017 Literary Excellence Awards presented by Black Pearls Magazine.
A firm believer in "each one, teach one," a passion she discovered while attending college, Ms. Green launched Literary Jewels, an online resource for writers interested in self-publishing. She is a contributing writer for The HeatSeekers and The Black Co-Op, and her role as a Virtual Assistant occupies her time. She has also participated in numerous panel discussions, webinars, and workshops on how books are a business. Furthering her entrepreneurial vision, Kisha also launched her spice line, KGBlends, which offers all-natural spices for the health-conscious. An idea that came to mind while home during COVID-19.
So, failure has never been an option for Ms. Green, and she will continue to smile and shine.
How long have you been writing?
I have been writing professionally since I was 11 but for seventeen years. I did not set out to become an author; it happened when I cleaned out some old boxes and stumbled across many of my journals from my teen years. They read like soap operas and were overly dramatic, and I thought, why not? I started writing a story about a woman who found out her husband was cheating, and she decided to poison him with a muscle relaxer they give to horses. See, what I mean is DRAMATIC. If the storyline were not crazy enough, I would title it N***A, PLEASE. Thank heavens, I did not go that route and settled for a story about friends who become enemies and a more appropriate title that would not scare off the potential reader.
With Cruel Intent is a story of a trio of friends from different backgrounds who accurately understand what best friends forever ultimately means. Meet a self-proclaimed diva battling her abandonment issues while longing for the love she thinks she needs to make her complete. Next, add a female looking for love in all the wrong places, given the reality check of a lifetime, is forced to make the right choice. Lastly, a former stripper flees an abusive and unfaithful ex for a better life, which proves harder than expected, with the past still haunting her. Will the truth finally set any of these women free? Their experiences teach them about self-love, resilience, and empowerment while, in their way, justifying that all intentions aren't cruel.
What was the inspiration for the story?
My stories are based on something my friends and or family have shared with me. They are my best muse. I remix their nonfiction with my fiction twist, which makes for a good read.
How do you handle writer's block?
I walk away from my laptop. I do not want to force anything. I wait to feel inspired.
Are you on social media, and can your readers interact with you?
Yes, I am on all platforms and love interacting with readers- people in general. I have a podcast that debuted on Facebook, Digital Foreplay, and my posts on my page are often eyebrow-rising and comical.
How many plot ideas are just waiting to be written? Can you tell us about one?
I have 4, but one I am incredibly passionate about is my dating and relationship book, Digital Foreplay, because there is so much that can be discussed as I have so much content, but every time I think I am complete, another scenario pops into my head, and I want to explore that. Some people do not know how to date or think you can get to know someone by texting them. Good morning, how was your day? and WYD?
What are you reading now?
I am doing an internship for a literary agency and reading a submission from a client. It is a suspense thriller that is a page-turner, for sure.
Do you have a library membership?
What would you like to say to your readers?
So, I wanted to be more than just a writer, but a storyteller and a writer that readers could identify with and see that there is no ego here; I am silly and am always smiling. Who is Kisha Green? a consultant, blogger, podcast host, and social media and pop culture enthusiast. I reside in New Jersey and am a self-proclaimed foodie who likes to indulge in good wine or cheap cognac, fresh sushi, lemon pepper, and garlic parmesan wings (fried hard) when not reading, writing, or discussing celebrity gossip and relationships.
Facebook- Author Kisha Green
Instagram- Kisha Green
Twitter- Kisha Green
TikTok: Kishagreen831
Amazon Author Page- Kisha Green
Monday, October 9, 2023
Author Profile: Kelsi
Kelsi McMeans
Tell us about yourself.
I am a twenty-eight-year-old mom of two. My daughter will be two in November of this year and my son is five months. I received my Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management from Alabama State University in 2017. I am currently working on a graduate degree in Healthcare Administration from Auburn University of Montgomery.
My favorite color is purple. My birthday is August 14,1995, so that makes me an August LEO, lol. I’m a big-time lover of R&B, Southern Soul Blues, and some Rap. My top three R&B artists are Jazmine Sullivan, Tink, & J. Howell. Even though there are so many more that I enjoy. I love to binge-watch tv shows more than I enjoy watching movies. My favorite show is “Insecure” by Issa Rae.
I have been writing since 2019 but I have been an avid reader since the age of twelve. Some of my all-time favorite authors are Wahida Clark and Ashley & Jaquavis Coleman just to name a few. My all-time favorite novel is “Moth to a Flame”, by Ashley Antionette.
Tell us about your featured book.
The featured book that I will be discussing is titled “Lick Back: A Hood Love Story”. It is a story about betrayal. Sometimes the people closest to you don’t want to see you excel in life, instead they want to see you stagnant. That was the case with Zeilan and Draco. They were two best friends who were so close that they were like brothers. So close that Zeilan’s grandmother took Draco in because of his parents being unfit. All of the unconditional love that they showed him wasn’t enough because he didn’t like to see Zeilan elevate in life. Instead, he wanted to see him dead so that’s what he set out to do, have him killed.
Draco was a very selfish and conniving person. He didn’t appreciate any of the good people that God placed in his life. Instead, he misused them and took them for granted. He learns quickly how Karma can hit the reverse button and the shoe can quickly be on the other foot.
What is the significance of the title?
The title signifies that you can’t think you can do people dirty and not expect to reap the consequences behind your actions. Somebody is always going to get their lick back. Also, Zeilan finds love within the story in a not-so-traditional way. It was definitely a hood type of love.
How do you do research for your books?
Most of the time my books just come from the dome or past experiences. At times inspiration can come from anywhere. For example, I can read a crazy post from Facebook or even watch a TikTok video and get ideas. Also, music inspires me a lot.
Is writing your full-time career? Or would you like it to be?
At the moment I am writing full time but it's only temporary. In the real world, I would like to become a permanent full-time writer.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
I considered myself a writer when I released my first book “Infatuated by a Gangsta” under Miss Candice Presents.
What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?
I can’t say I received my influence of writing from anyone specific. I just go on what I feel with any book, given the title.
Favorite quote (doesn’t matter the source):
“Nothing Comes To A Sleeper But A Dream” – Serena Williams
Facebook- Kelsi McMeans
Instagram- authoresskelsi
Amazon Author Page- Kelsi McMeans
Tik Tok- authoresskelsi
AuthorKelsi McMeans 's books can be purchased at the following locations:
Author Catalog:
A Hood Chick & A Crime Boss: An African American Romance
Infatuated by The Love of a Gangsta: A Tale of Friendship, Love, and Deceit
Infatuated by The Love of a Gangsta 2
Captivated by A Hitta's Love : Khelani & Khalil
Daughters of A King: A Tale of Money, Love, & Drugs
Daughters of A King 2: A Tale of Money, Love, & Drugs
Daughters of A King 3: A Tale of Love, Drugs, & Money
Made Men Mafia: The Love Story
Finding Love in A Thug for The Holidays
Lowkey Creepin' With A Hood Billionaire: An Urban Romance
Lowkey Creepin' With A Hood Billionaire 2
Lowkey Creepin' With A Hood Billionaire 3: The Finale
Lick Back 2: A Hood Love Story
Featured Novel:
Heartbreak after heartbreak. Set back after set back. Dawn has been going through nothing but turmoil, trying to love a man that only loved himself. Draco has only shown her that he would only continue to do what she allows.
As women, sometimes we find that love makes us stay in situations that we should’ve walked away from a long time ago. Dawn is in dilemma to leave but each time the thought crosses her mind she finds herself at a standstill, trying to find the person she fell in love with and not the man that he has become.
When the cheating occurs one too many times and the secret that Draco tries to withhold from Dawn exposes his infidelity even more. The woman that he never expected to get away, finally finds the strength to move. Will he accept his fate? Or will her getting her Lick Back sends him to a mental state that he never anticipated being in?
Come along with the crew as they experience all of the lessons that life
Sunday, October 8, 2023
Author Profile: Moon Bey
Moon Bey
Tell us about yourself.
Moon Bey is a Black Contemporary author with an affinity for erotica, women’s and urban fiction. The Connecticut native began her career in 2019 and has since released titles that encompass both the praised and despised sides of Black life, love, and intimacy. The relatable stories in her catalog promote introspection and free-thinking in readers. Both empowerment and entertainment await those who choose to indulge in her writing. When Moon is not writing, she expresses her creativity through graphic design and serial entrepreneurship. She strives to provide resources and tools to her peers to help solidify their craft.
Tell us about your latest book.
Making Time is about happily married couple Taness and Syvad who struggle to celebrate their wedded bliss on their anniversary. Without a babysitter, they are forced to find creative ways to keep their spark ignited.
What has helped or hindered you most when writing a book?
It was helpful to be able to pull from the experience of my own parenthood journey for this piece. Although I am not as adventurous as Taness, I have felt the pressure of needing a breather.
If your book were made into a movie, which actors would play your characters?
It would be a dream to see actress Amber Riley and actor John Boyega portray Taness and Syvad on the big screen.
What is your kryptonite as a writer?
A book I’m not interested in. Or maybe a show that didn’t hit like I thought it would or I fell asleep on a movie. I love reading above all else, so missing the mark puts me in a slight funk until I open the next.
Have you ever traveled as research for your book?
Yes. Though only local so far, I will even go as far as visiting someone’s job to get first-hand experience with a character. I have trips lined up to visit two destinations for future series. One of which is international.
Have you used an app to borrow ebooks or audiobooks from the library?
Yes! I use Libby for family story time weekly.
Do you have other writers in the family?
I am the first that I know of.
If you could invite any three people for dinner, whom would you invite?
Author Zane, Issa Rae, and Ava DuVernay.
What would you like to say to your readers?
Be sure to always check my website for exclusive short stories or complimentary reads I may have available.
Facebook- Moon Bey
Instagram- Thatmoonbey
Twitter- Moon is Writing
Amazon Author Page- Moon Bey
Spill- @thatmoonbey
Clubhouse- @thatmoonbey
Author's Website- https://moonbey.com
Author Moon Bey's books can be purchased at the following locations:
Author Catalog:
Featured Novel:
Making Time
When the kids are away, Mom and Dad will play. But what happens when the kids have nowhere to go?
Like any other happily married couple, Taness and her husband Syvad arranged a romantic weekend getaway for their wedding anniversary. What they didn't count on was their sitter becoming unavailable at the last minute.
Determined not to let their intimacy take a back seat to their children, as usual, Taness proposes that the two of them create opportunities for passion whenever possible. Confident that his wife is getting her hopes up, Syvad is reluctant to play along.
Can these parents celebrate their love while stuck at home, tending to their kid's constant needs?
Will they make time to do what grown folks do?
Free Books 10/8/23
- No Longer Afraid
- Her Billionaire Man TENSION Book1
- Making Time
- Royal Majesty: A Dope Boy Love Story 1-3
- The View
- Masters Of The Game
- Inside Nikki
- Women Lie Men Lie part 2: A Gritty Urban Fiction Novel of Vengeance and Murder Set in Pontiac, Michigan
- Black Ribisi
- Passionate Crime Part II
- Dangerously In Love With A Menace
- Bullet To The Heart
- Masters Of Escape (Masters Series Book 2)
- Only a Bad Boy Can Love Her (Bad Boys Do It Better Book 8)
- No Goodbye
- Blooming Big
- Cheating like Breathing: A novel
- Mistletoe Hustle: Urban Paranormal
- Betrayed
- Will of the Mischief Maker: An Old Gods Story (Orishas Among Mortals Book 1)
Saturday, October 7, 2023
Book Review Alert: Blood of My Brother by Zoe and Yusuf Woods
Author: Zoe and Yusuf Woods
Published: September 30, 2007
Publisher: RJ Publications
ISBN-10: 0978637313
ASBN: B0042P5F36
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by: Patrice "SCBookGal843" Grimball
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
Free Books
- The Miseducation of a Bad Boy
- Could It Be Love Book 3
- Hell Between My Thighs: Chasitys Storm
- HELL IN MY LIFE...REAL RAP VOLUME 2: THE STACEY STAXX STORY
- Window
- The Thug & The Kingpin's Daughter
- Giving All My Love To A Brookyln Street King: Azryah & Kaylen's Love Saga
- Giving All My Love To A Brooklyn Street King: Azryah & Kaylen's Love Saga 2
- Love On LockDown
- Grandpa's Cabin
- Judas Priest II: Parker
- Tiana: The Chosen : Book Two
- Urban Mind State II: Living in Two Worlds
- A Halloween Kind of Love: A Sojourner Falls Tale
- Worth Saving
Monday, September 25, 2023
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Author Profile: Chicki Brown and Book Giveaway
Chicki Brown
Facebook-
http://www.facebook.com/chicki.brown
TikTok- https://tiktok@chickibrown
Instagram- https://instagram.com/brownchicki
Amazon
Author Central- http://amzn.to/l2kjXQ
Barnes
& Noble- https://bit.ly/3dd3nzp
YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/user/chicki663
Amazon:
https://bit.ly/3EbMQcB
Barnes
& Noble: https://bit.ly/3dd3nzp
Author Catalog
Vote for the 2023 Aspiring Authors Magazine Awards Nomination Period
From December 1 to December 31, anyone is able to nominate their favorites in all categories. You can nominate someone as many time...
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Books are free at the time of posting. No Longer Afraid Her Billionaire Man TENSION Book1 Making Time Royal Majesty: A Dope Boy Love Story...
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Jannet M. Slade-Butler Tell us about yourself. I am an Author, Writer and Poet, Motivational Speak, Educator, and Mother. My name is ...