2022 SCBookGal and Friends February Reading Challenge


February is Black History Month. So of course our focus will be books written by African Americans.  We decided to take it a step farther and spotlight books written for or by young adults. According to a Pew Research study, among students that were 13-year-olds, only 15% of African Americans said that they read everyday. Their counterparts Asians (28%) and White (20%) read on a daily basis. That same Pew Research study proved that students who read for fun scored better on standardized tests in 2020.


Take a look at these great reads that can ignite the love for reading in a young adult in your life or even yourself.  (Links are connected to websites where books can be purchased)


 



 


Don’t forget about our 2022 SCBookGal and Friends Reading Challenge!!!!!

To be eligible to win a $10 Amazon Gift card, you just have to read a book on the list or a book that can fit within the theme. If you participate every month in 2022, you will be entered into a drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Fire Tablet that will be given away in December. Your monthly entry can be entered HERE.  You can check out our blog at http://www.aamllcbookreviews.com/ or check us out on facebook- SCBookGal & Friends.  Happy Reading!!!!


2022 SCBookGal and Friends Monthly Themes

  • January- Read a book from SCBookGal and Friends January Magazine suggestions

  • February- Read a young adult novel by an african american author

  • March- Watch a  book made into a film or television series

  • April- Borrow a book from your local library and read

  • May- Read a book about concerning mental health

  • June- Read a book written by a local author

  • July- Attend a book festival

  • August- Listen to an audiobook

  • September- Read a romance novel

  • October- Read a book whose cover has your favorite color

  • November- Read a book by a new author

  • December- Read a book by one of SCBookGal and Friends spotlight authors


Book Review Alert: The Muted Cage

Book Review Alert: The Muted Cage
Author: Milagros-Lotus Romero
Published: November 4, 2020
Publisher: Lulu.com
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1716476099
ASIN: B008T53D2ZR
Rating: 4 stars


The Muted Cage is a compilation of emotions, feelings and experiences many readers in this book readers will be able to identify with the author's pain, struggles, and also the love that it is exuded throughout the book. What I found most intriguing about the book is how the author was able to give readers a very vivid Outlook into her personal life, her family history as well as a look at her tenacity to overcome childhood trauma. I would say however the flow of the book needs work as certain chapters did not flow with other chapters in the book. For instance the chapter that speaks about her mother's death I personally believe should have waited or should have been listed until the very end of the book. I'm very intrigued by the title of the book The muted cage in the sense I can personally identify with childhood traumas that often times go unhealed, unaddressed, and in some cases are passed on to other generations. I will however say that this book is a trigger for anyone who may have PTSD, unresolved traumas as well as struggles with low self-esteem or self-worth. I do not recommend this book to children under the age of 17 because of the severity and the nature of the book. In hindsight this book could be extremely beneficial for therapists, counselors, and even Christian organizations that deal or work with individuals who have suffered traumas or even self-esteem issues. I would rate this book as a four out of five and I would recommend this book to other book groups around the globe. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and I felt challenged to even face my inner demons and traumas that I continue to live with. I encourage anyone who may be interested in going in the psychology, sociology, or even counseling field to read this book as it prepares you to display empathy, compassion, and understanding to Future clients. (Reviewed by HarmonyRaine)

Click here to purchase. Follow Milagros-Lotus Romero on faceook at https://www.facebook.com/milagros.romero.568089.

Book Review Alert: Rescued By A Savage: A Tainted Love



Book Review Alert: Rescued By A Savage: A Tainted Love
Author: Talena Tillman
Published: October 29, 2021
Publisher: Independently published
ISBN-13: ‎ 979-8760521446
ASIN: B09KQ8HFJR
Rating: 5 stars


The story of Harmony Bellamy starts as her being a teenager along with her baby sister, Melody. Their living arrangement at that time was nothing short of an extravagant home with two loving parents. Love and financial stability enveloped the girls into a blanket of no worries. Harmony was a daddy’s girl. I say WAS because as a teenager she lost her father by way of a brutal murder. Shortly after, she lost her mother to suicide leaving Harmony and her baby sister without parents and into the custody of Aunt Pam. Living with their aunt was the exact opposite of what their lives were before. Once Harmony became of legal age, she worked hard and eventually was awarded custody of her sister.

A happily ever after life would be an understatement. Harmony struggles to provide for their household. Life’s circumstances has her on the brink. By chance, she meets Santana Rossi; a music producer backed by his grandfather’s legacy and a lifetime of street cred. They are instantly attracted to each other and he begins to spoil Harmony and her little sister. To Harmony, Santana is heaven sent. To Santana, Harmony is his yin to his yang. They appear to be a match made in heaven, until this too good to be true urban romance comes full circle. I was impressed with the author’s storytelling abilities. A vivid picture was painted through her words typed on paper; the character Harmony’s independent mentality and her struggles with maintaining her independence. The author also detailed Harmony’s struggles with her mental issues. However, her character is strong and very relatable to female readers. I loved reading about the urban love story of Harmony and Santana. Although money was no object and Santana spoiled her, Harmony still worked hard to provide for her sister Melody. With the turn of each page I anticipated which path their relationship would take. While I’m glad that they’ve made their relationship official, the book ended with a cliffhanger and with an explosion of events that will most definitely turn things on its head. I recommend this read. I’m anticipating part two of this novel.

Reviewed by Kela

SCBookGal and Friends 2022 Reading Challenge (Prize Winner Every Month)

 

2022 SCBookGal and Friends Reading Challenge!!!!!

Here is something new in 2022. We would love to encourage you to read more in 2022.  Here is your chance to become a well-rounded reader and possibly be rewarded. Each month SCBookGal and Friends will create a theme and booklist. To be eligible to win a $10 Amazon Gift card, you just have to read a book on the list  or a book that can fit within the theme. If you participate every month in 2022, you will be entered into a drawing to win an Amazon Kindle Fire Tablet that will be given away in December. Your monthly entry can be entered here. You can check out our blog at http://www.aamllcbookreviews.com/ or check us out on facebook- SCBookGal & Friends.  Happy Reading!!!!




2022 SCBookGal and Friends Monthly Themes


  • January- Read a book from SCBookGal and Friends January Magazine suggestions

  • February- Read a young adult novel by an african american author

  • March- Watch a  book made into a film or television series

  • April- Borrow a book from your local library and read

  • May- Read a book about concerning mental health

  • June- Read a book written by a local author

  • July- Attend a book festival

  • August- Listen to an audiobook

  • September- Read a romance novel

  • October- Read a book whose cover has your favorite color

  • November- Read a book by a new author

  • December- Read a book by one of SCBookGal and Friends spotlight authors





January- Read a book from SCBookGal and Friends January Magazine suggestions

This month we would like to recap of the top 10 books that SCBookGal and Friends reviewed in 2021. Thanks to all the authors that gave us the opportunity to read your outstanding work. If you would like to have your book reviewed by SCBookGal and Friends, remit an email to aspiringauthorsmagazinereview@gmail.com.

  1. Stepping Into My Purpose by Charlotte Simon-Rowson

  2. Will You Catch Me If I Fall by Cherice Harris, Kellz K Publishing, 2017

  3. A Fem’s Playground by Shatika Turner, Amazon Digital Services, 2017

  4. Battle Scarred Love : BWWM by Y. Deonna, Y. Deonna, 2019

  5. Tears of Me by LaToya Martin, LaToya Martin, 2020

  6. An Orman’s Revenge by Dominique Gibson, 2019

  7. Trahison: Why Weren’t We the Chosen Ones by Anjunette L. Washington, Page Publishing, 2021

  8. You Taught Me by Delanda McNair, Truly HIS Pen LLC, 2019

  9. The Tomorrow Game by Paul J. Chetcuti, Oakfield Books, 2021

  10. Million Dollar Bill by Sherrod Tunstall, SJT Entertainment, 2020

Author Spotlight - Pamela Campbell

Aspiring Author Magazine had a chance to chat it up with Pamela Campbell. Campbell is an native of Brooklyn, New York but now resides in Charlotte, North Carolina. She has three grown children and is married to the love of her life for more than 30 years. Other than writing, she is a managing partner of an engineering firm. She loves reading, traveling and doing puzzles in her spare time. She is also one of the founding members of Sisters into Reading and Reviewing (online book club).Lastly she is an author of over 25 books. Some of the books were urban books but mostly romance is her genre of choice. Continue to read to learn more about Mrs. Pamela Campbell. 



Q: When did you write your first book and how old were you?

    A: I started off writing short stories in high school. I wrote my first book when I was 30 years old, but I never published it. My first published book was in 2017


Q: What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

    A: The importance of researching and outline before starting to write the book.


Q: Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?

    A: Continued to learn about the craft of writing. I’m always writing, reading reference books and taking writing courses so my writing can improve.


Q: What was an early experience where you learned that language had power?

    A: As a young child watching adults interacting with each other…especially my mother. I started reading very early and never stopped.


Q: As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?

    A: A Shih Tzu show dog


Q: What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters from the opposite sex?

    A: Making sure not to write the same male character for each and every book. Picking the right traits for each male character.


Q: How do you select the names of your characters?

    A: It takes me forever to decide on my character’s names! Lately, I’ve been using names that my daughter picks for me..usually her friends or co-workers…lol


Q:What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?

    A: Tough one, but I would give up binge watching crime shows to become a better writer…lol


Q: Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few people will find?

    A: Yes, sometimes I do.


Q:What would you like to say to your readers?

    A: Thank you so much for supporting me, it means more than I could ever express. God Bless all of you!







Invest In Yourself. Get your book reviewed by us.

 SCBookGal & Friends are currently ACCEPTING review requests. All previous requests will be completed because we start reviewing again. Yes the review policy has changed. So please take a look at our review policy before you fill out a request.  If you would like more information please email us at aspiringauthorsmagazinereview@gmail.com. Click HERE to get your review started. 










Free Books 11/30/2021

 

  Books are free at time of posting. Click on the title to get your copy. Check before clicking.


Free Books for November 29, 2021

 


Books are free at time of posting. Click on the title to get your copy. Check before clicking.

  1. Money In the Grave: Dead Presidents by Martell "Troublesome" Bolden
  2. Queenie: Part II by J.E. Wolf
  3. The Journal by Three Fifty Seven
  4. In Love With a Street Menace: Braydon & Jaxyn  by Londyn Lenz
  5. Nia Bluu & The Great Awakening by Moe Nicole
  6. Siren by Fannie Price
  7. Dangerous: A Suspense Novel by Mickey Black
  8. Thanks, Banks, and Murder by Noella Lee
  9. Switch'd Up by Tay Monae 
  10. Noble Love by Te Russ


Upcoming Promotions for Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC

Authors looking to promote their brand for the holidays (December 12th-23rd).
Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC, AAALAC-The Original Chasing Your Dream Book Tour & Literary Expo will be hosting a WINTER WONDERLAND BOOK STOP
Each night from 6 pm to 8 pm, we will showcase 5 authors.
INVEST $23.33 IN YOUR BRAND 
PERKS FOR YOUR INVESTMENT
  • 15 minute spotlight on UP CLOSE & PERSONAL W/ QUEEN ANGELA via STREAMYARD. (Pick 1 day between December 12th-23rd.)
  • 1/4 page ad inside December's Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC
  • Be entered into a drawing to be featured on the front cover of  Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC IN 2022
  • Be one of the first 60 to reserve their spot and entered in a drawing for a $100 GIFT CARD
Unable to hold spots. Time is of the essence. Get booked today. What are you waiting for?
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

(MUST REGISTER BY DEC. 3RD TO RECEIVE THIS OFFER)


****************************************************************************************


Authors here is your chance to be featured inside the February BLACK HISTORY MONTH issue.

INEVEST $25 INTO YOUR BRAND.

PERKS FOR YOUR INVESTEMT:
  • Featured author segment in the special BOOKS TO READ 2020 edition.
    • Includes headshot, book listing, and bio. 
  • A free copy of the magazine 
  • Book reviewed by the Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC Review Team
  • Book review placed on the Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC Review Team Blogsite
 
Click HERE to enter.  For further questions, contact Patrice Grimball Middleton at aspiringauthorsmagazinereview@gmail.com. Don't miss your opportunity to create history. All BROWN AUTHORS WELCOME. 
***********************************************************************************

Women reserve your spot inside our 2nd edition 

HONORING  WOMEN CREATING  HISTORY 

INVEST $25 IN YOUR BRAND

PERKS FOR YOUR INVESTMENT

  • 1 page feature inside our Special Aspiring Authors Magazine LLC March Issue
ONLY 61 WOMEN WILL BE FEATURE  
Deadline to reserve your spot is December 31, 2021.  
Special Addition will be released on March 1, 2021.  

As of November 29 we have 21 spots open.

Click HERE to become apart of this movement. 




    Book Review Alert: Stepping Into My Purpose


    Book Review Alert: Stepping Into My Purpose

    Authors: Dawn Braithwaite, Pache Felton, Arlise Ford, Yvonne D. Hendrick,  Charlotte Simon-Rowson, Dr. Elaine Sanders, Antoinette Saunders, and Rev Janel T. York

    Published: 2021

    Publisher: Unknown

    Rating: 4 stars



    Have you ever wondered why you were placed on this earth? What is your reason for being? Getting an answer to this question can be very overwhelming.  On the other hand, getting advice on this may be even harder. Stepping Into My Purpose is a book that can be considered as an introduction to figuring your purpose in life. Eight women of God came together as one to show others how they overcome and step into their purpose. 

    Before reading this book, I had a problem with putting myself first. I thought it was a selfish thing to do.  While reading this book, I realized that it was ok. That taking care of me first is a stepping stone needed to take care of my family. Another takeaway from this book is that don’t let others put their thoughts on you. You have the ability to think for yourself. While on this journey of discovering their purpose, one author said that  you (the reader) need to first listen to their heart. That is one thing I was always afraid to do. Another author stated that in order to  progress you will have to endure change. I know that was true but hearing and reading it made it even more important to embrace. Points of this book made me feel like a young child getting “popped” on the hand. It was those you know better moments that just made me want to do better. 


    Ladies and gentlemen, this is a book that will be so helpful in life. So many nuggets of wisdom are found within the pages of this novel. You will not want to read this once. You will want to read this book again and again. I promise you will have a new revelation with each reading. I know I did. 


    Check out Charlotte Simon-Rowson by clicking on the following link:
    http://www.aamllcbookreviews.com/2021/11/book-review-alert-stepping-into-my.html

    SCBookGal and Friends chat it up with Author Charlotte Simon-Rowson


    Author Charlotte Simon

    Aspiring Author Magazine had a chance to chat it up with Author Charlotte Simon. Simon lives in the New York City area and is currently enrolled in two (not one but two) bachelor programs. One is Inspired Word Bible College for Theology and DeVry University for Technical Management. Charlotte Simon is also a poet and an artist. She is particularly an artist of oil paints. Other titles she has under her belt are mother, wife, sister, daughter, music lover, and a servant of the LORD. Continue to read to learn more about Mrs. Charlotte Simon. 

     

    Q: What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

    A: I would say my interesting writing quirk is whatever I am being inspired by, for example I usually get a title in my head first  or for that matter the title is given to me and  I repeat it  to myself at least seven times only because seven is my favorite number.  

     

    Q:Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

    A: I usually get my information or ideas for books in conversations from my family, friends or dreams.

     

    Q: What do you like to do when you're not writing?

    A: I love to listen to music, paint, and hang out with my family and friends. I also love just getting up early listening to the birds  while drinking coffee and meditating. 

     

    Q: Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?

    A:The only suggestions I can give is when writing do not think too hard about what you are going to write about; freestyle initially if you have to and the story will come together within its own.

     

    Q:What was the experience like working with so many beautiful women when writing Stepping Into My Purpose?

    A:The experience was wonderful because these amazing women encouraged me not only with my writing but to begin a new friendship.  One would find it hard to believe that we've known each other for a short period of time; we do zoom parities, brunches and forward encouraging text messages.

     

    Q: How do you balance making demands on the reader with taking care of the reader?

    A: I would say I am not making demands upon the reader but I will ask the reader to read the whole book not only my story but the entire book which will truly bless them once they read it.

     

    Q: What’s the best way to market your books?

    A: For now it is word of mouth and Facebook; I briefly market on Instagram however, in the very near future I will have a website available .   I  am hoping with this review I will be able to create a new found audience .

     

    Q: What is the most difficult part of your artistic process?

    A: The most difficult process is sometimes just to have the time; I have to sometimes schedule time just to write. I do carry a journal with me as well as send myself texts once I feel the urge to write.

     

    Q: If you had to do something differently as a child or teenager to become a better writer as an adult, what would you do?

    A: I would have taken it more seriously; I had to believe in myself that there was a writer within me even when I had initially begun college as a young adult.  A professor told me I had the makings of becoming a good writer, I shrug it off but now I know there is a writer within me.


    Click here to read the review for Stepping Into My Purpose-
    http://www.aamllcbookreviews.com/2021/11/book-review-alert-stepping-into-my.html

    Here are some photos from her first book signing.....