Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Author Profile: Kisha Green

Kisha Green 

 

Tell us about yourself.
   
    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.


Tell us about your featured book. 
    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? 
    Yes!!! I love reading. I have a few.


What would you like to say to your readers? 
    Before deciding to pen my first novel, I was an avid reader. I fell in love with reading back with Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary books, and my mom was an avid reader, too. When other teens read Nancy Drew and Sweet Valley High, I indulged in Stephen King, V.C. Andrews, and Mary Higgins Clark. Mystery and suspense were always my favorite, but when I picked up my first novel by Jackie Collins, I was blown away by the sexy stories about the rich and famous. She had a beautiful way of telling a story and became my favorite Author. She embodied what literary success was and was admired and respected by all. 
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.

Follow Author Kisha Green's social media outlets:

Facebook- Author Kisha Green 

Instagram- Kisha Green 

Twitter- Kisha Green 

TikTok: Kishagreen831

Amazon Author Page- Kisha Green 



Author Catalog:

The Best Part is a collection of short stories that will delight, entice and illuminate with every page turned. Take a journey to places of mental seduction, love, betrayal, and deceit with the perfect sprinkle of sexy to entice your mental tastebuds. At the same time, The Best Part removes the stigma that you must be weird, strange, or a freak for wanting to explore your sexual curiosity.

Follow Author Kisha Green's novel Lockdown Lust will be FREE from October 12 to October 14 
Click on the book:
Lockdown Lust tells the story of Officer Grant Johnson, a rookie correctional officer at one of the most notorious women's prisons. Each day, the inmates tease, taunt, and sometimes entertain him. Trained to be aware of his surroundings, he never thought the one who rarely spoke would engage him in an unspoken conversation that only their bodies could understand. In this sexy tale of temptation, does a correctional officer cross the line, give in to the burning desire, or remain a professional?





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


Follow Author Kelsi McMeans 's social media outlets:

Facebook- Kelsi McMeans 

Instagram- authoresskelsi 

Amazon Author Page- Kelsi McMeans

Tik Tok- authoresskelsi



AuthorKelsi McMeans 's books can be purchased at the following locations:

Amazon




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: A Hood Love Story

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.


Follow Author Moon Bey 's social media outlets:

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:

Amazon

https://moonbey.com


Author Catalog:

Making Time

Chaotic Arousal

VALENTINE'S DAY JAMZ VOL. 1 : U SEND ME SWINGIN' (T'ANN MARIE PRESENTS VALENTINE'S DAY JAMZ VOL. 1 Book 12) 

Kept: "Always Something"



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

 

Books are free at the time of posting.



Saturday, October 7, 2023

Book Review Alert: Blood of My Brother by Zoe and Yusuf Woods

Book Review Alert: Blood of My Brother 
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

Am I my brother’s keeper?

Roc knows all about the game because that is his life. Roc wants better for his little brother, Lil Mac, and has made it a life goal to keep him away from the streets. That was his goal but his brother had other ideas. Unknown to Roc, Lil Mac is the creator of the Get Money Click. You can say that the motto of this group is by any means necessary. Roc and his crew prepare for battle with the Get Money Click. Roc wants to get out of the game but how can he leave knowing that this new Get Money Click is taking over and the crew is not getting money anymore. How can he leave the people that helped him create his empire? So Roc goes to battle one more time still not knowing that the person he is battling is his little brother. Who will spill blood first? Will Roc find out that the person that he is fighting is his flesh and blood before it is too late?

I have to give these book 3 stars. Blood of my Brothers started off very slow. Not being able to grab the attention of the reader until the middle of the book is not a good thing. Zoe and Yusuf Woods have a great storyline but it is lost in the first half of the book. If these authors spent a little more time at the beginning of the book the rating would have been more than three stars. Once in the middle of the book the flow goes very quickly to the end. The ending of the book leads greatly into the next novel.



Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Author Profile: Chicki Brown and Book Giveaway

Chicki Brown


Tell us about yourself.
    I am a contemporary women’s fiction/romance author who has been featured twice in USA Today. B.R.A.B. (Building Relationships Around Books) has awarded me honors for my work, as well as SORMAG (Shades of Romance Magazine). 
Before becoming a full-time author, I worked as a secretary, typesetter, daycare provider, and executive assistant. My goal as an author is to entertain readers and provide an escape from their daily routine into the lives of her characters. 
    A Jersey girl who relocated to Atlanta, GA in 1994, I now consider myself a Georgia peach.


Tell us about your featured book. 
    HAVE YOU SEEN HER? is the first novel I published and is still my favorite. The book began in my mind after seeing a news story about an average middle-class woman who escaped from her abusive husband. I started thinking about what a wealthy woman in a similar situation would do. Although financially she might be able to temporarily disappear, her husband has more money and access to connections she doesn’t have. 
    During that time, I was fangirl crushing on a Hollywood actor who will remain nameless.  He became my character role model for the hero, Taylor Villanova.
    

How do you do research for your books?
    Research is one of my favorite parts of writing. With the availability of search engines like Google, it’s possible to find out just about anything. I love doing in-depth research on the setting for my books, the professions of my characters, and other details. In the past, I have even visited the town I chose to use for one of my stories. My late husband and I stayed there for the weekend so I could interview and mingle with residents. It was so much fun.


On a typical day, how much time do you spend writing?
    When I was writing daily, I usually went to a local coffeehouse three days a week and wrote for 3-4 hours. On alternate days, I’d stay at home in my office and would work from 10 AM to 4 PM. Of course, that includes research, finding pictures of characters and setting, and working on promotion/marketing material.


How do you handle writer’s block?
    In my own writing career, I’ve discovered that writer’s block is the result of some other issue. With me it is fatigue, lack of research or lack of planning on the story. When I correct the problem, the block disappears.


What time of the day do you usually write?
    Morning is my best time of day. I am more alert and have more energy. It’s also beneficial for me to start working before I get distracted by other things like housework, errands, or television.


Do you feel an author should also be a reader?
    There is no way around it. If you don’t read, you shouldn’t write. Period. Reading the work of other authors teaches you what works and what doesn’t. 


What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
    It is way more work than I ever expected. The writing is the fun part. There is so much more to publishing a book. Creating promotion/marketing material and finding reputable, effective places to promote takes a great deal of time and investigation. An author must also spend time chatting with readers and networking with other authors, whether in person or online. 


What does literary success look like to you?
    Whatever you want for your own career. It can be anything from building a devoted following of readers or making a certain number of sales. That differs for each author. For me, it’s been discovering how much readers enjoy my work. Having them contact me to ask about the books and when the next one is coming brings joy to my heart.


What would you like to say to your readers?
    I am so thankful for their support and for trusting me to take them on journeys with the characters who live in my imagination. Taking a year off can hinder an author’s career.
As my hiatus ends this month, I hope they decide to stick with me. 



     Follow Author Chicki Brown social media outlets: 


Locations or links where books can be purchased

 

Author Catalog



BOOK GIVEAWAY



Marcia Hadley, Santa Barbara, California socialite has been married for seven years to the heir of a family fortune. He sees to it that she has the finest home, cars and clothes. Yet that isn’t enough to keep Marcia from running. Dani Reynolds, Atlantic City nightclub cocktail waitress works on her feet seven hours a night, five days a week for less than minimum wage in a crowded, smoky nightclub. She lives in an aging, run-down apartment, rides the city bus, and she’s happier than she’s ever been. Marcia and Dani have more in common than anyone could imagine. They are the same woman. Only Taylor Villanova, the club’s sexy bouncer can help her reconcile her two distinct personas, face her greatest fear and discover a love greater than she’d ever imagined.


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...