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Book Review Alert: Battle Scarred Love: BWWM (Book 1)
Book Review Alert: Battle Scarred Love: BWWM (Book 1)
Author: Y. Deonna
Published: September 4, 2019
Publisher: Y. Deonna
ISBN-13 : 978-1733058520
Rating: 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book Summary
Royale Chastain is a preacher’s kid. She is the daughter of Bishop Grayling Chastain and
First Lady Royce Chastain. Her grounded foundation in Christ has afforded her the
opportunity of a good upbringing, education, and non-profit opportunities which
allowed her to travel abroad on several occasions to complete missionary work. Her
family stars in a Christian turned outlandish reality show giving Royale celebrity status.
To add the cherry atop the sundae, she is planning to marry the man of her life.
However, she is faced with the ultimate betrayal by those who vowed to love her most.
She has decided to leave her issues in Virginia. While enroute to visit a sorority sister in
West Virginia, she meets Khan Masterson. Seeing apples and oranges would be like
looking at Royale and Khan, they are not a match. However in their souls, it feels like a
match made in heaven. Khan is also a college graduate and owns his own business. He
has survived his mother’s murder and is doing his best to rise above the expectations of
following in his father’s footsteps since his father has become a Klan member. They grew closer only to be challenged by the stigmas of their pasts. Will the love they have for each other conquer all or will they surrender to the judgement and hate of others?
I am impressed with the author’s wordsmanship abilities. A vivid picture was painted
through the words of the author. It is a great book when you can imagine characters and
places while reading. Being from Virginia myself, I felt a connection to the story’s setting
in Northern Virginia. I love that the author’s storytelling is not locked in a box. She
displays originality as well as the importance of a Christian foundation and prayer in her novel. She also explores on-going barriers in today’s day and age such as racism,
stereoptyping, hatred, and stigmas of interracial relationships. In this story, Royale and
Khan vow to knock down barriers promoting hate and preventing their love from
blossoming. With the turn of each page I anticipated what would happen next. The
ending of the book happened leaving a cliffhanger. I recommend this read. I discovered
that there was a part two to this novel. I recommend that you read this too, in advance. I
know I’ll be reading.
Book Review Alert: Tears of Me
Book Review Alert: Tears of Me
Author: LaToya Martin
Published: July 3, 2020
Publisher: LaToya Martin
ISBN-13: 978-1947928121
ASIN: B08DL6ZFJ6
Rating: 4
First poem that drew me into this novel was something that could be considered as a goodbye poem to cancer. I love the last line. It showed the determination of the character to overcome cancer. My second favorite piece of work in this novel would be Walketh Out Of Heaven. This poem is a dedication to the love that she is found in her mate. When reading this poem you can
tell that the author was in love with this person. The love that was spoken about was as they say something serious. It is a poem for those that are determined to stay married. When she compared love to Alpha and Omega. That part had me floored. Whoever this person that she's in love with you can tell that was a love that she's been waiting for.
I must say I love the poetry in this novel. It seems like every poem has something to do with everyday life. In addition, I love the artwork that is found in this novel. The artwork brings life to the point that it pertains to.My only negative against this book is that I wish the author would place the poems together in sections in which they are about a similar topic. The poem into different sections would make the poetry easier to read.
SCBookGal and Friends Meets Anjunette L. Washington (Part 2)
Anjunette L. Washington
Patrice and Friends had the chance to chat it up with DC author Anjunette L. Washington again. We wanted to know more about her. She enjoy traveling and meeting new people. She also states that she is a soft spoken female that loves to laugh especially at herself. Music and books are other passions of hers. Washington is an accountant by trade.
When did you write your first book and how old were you?
Unfortunately, I started writing and I allowed life to get in my way. Eventually, I snapped out of it and submitted the manuscript to a publishing firm. The first book that I published and liked was in 2015. I had just turned fifty-one.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
I love books so oftentimes I would go to books signings and was amazed at fellow authors and their writing styles. A light bulb went off in my head. I think it’s time for me to attempt to do this. I enjoy creating characters and after a while they become real to me and the reader. I began merging life events both bad and good using a fictional mind. Most of all I enjoy having fun.
Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?
The most important thing is to find the genre that is important to you. An author writing swag differs from person to person. Please align yourself with positivity that will strengthen you. Read other authors books that pertain to what you want to write about. Proper association is the key.
What was an early experience where you learned that language had power?
I have always wanted to be a linguist but my educational background is in Science and Math. Needless to say, a person’s expression/statement can be enlightening and cause people to engage in a positive way and the opposite of that is negativity. I have experienced that being kind to specific people brings out hearts of greatness which is good on both ends.
As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?
I like animals but I love birds. The Eagle would be my ideal mascot. I love to see them fly.
What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters from the opposite sex?
When I am writing about men can be trying for me. I began observing them and how they engage with women, children and situations both bad and good.
How do you select the names of your characters?
My genre is suspense, mystery and a little love triangles. I am a crime fighter of males and females some of my characters are natives to United State’s and some are not so I look for ethnic sounding names.
What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?
Practice makes for a better writer. I would alleviate things or people that bring no balance to me. Oftentimes I travel alone just to break away and understand I have whatever I am writing about on hand.
Do you hide any secrets in your books that only a few people will find?
Yes I hide secrets that is the most fun thing for me to do. I have lived for a while and experienced many things. The secrets are well hidden using a fictional character’s mind. Moving forward any book that I publish will have buried secrets.
What would you like to say to your readers?
If you buy any books that I have written first and foremost thank you. Please tell me about what characters that you like and tell me why. I enjoy reading people’s thoughts about my books. I can always be found at: Anjiesbooks4u.com and all social media platforms. I would love to engage with you and I will even find a way to sign any books you may have or you can buy a book directly from me.
To find out more about Anjunette Washington, follow her on the following platforms
Facebook: Anjie's Book 4 U
Instagram: Anjie Book 4 U
Website: www.anjiesbooks4u.com.
SCBookGal and Friends Meets Ms. LaToya Martin
Meet Author LaToya Martin
SCBookGal and Friends had the opportunity to meet LaToya Martin. Ms. Martin is the author of "Tears of Me." A collection of poems about suffering, love, and loss. LaToya was born and raised in the small town of Boley, Oklahoma, she is also the mother of two teenage daughters. Writing was never her passion; she only began writing because of a few homework assignments. Over the years, however, her love for poetry blossomed. When she isn't writing, LaToya Martin loves fishing, watching paranormal documentaries, and enjoying nature. Join us as we get to know more about Ms LaToya Martin.
What is your favorite childhood book?
My favorite childhood book was "The Day Jimmy's Boa Ate the Wash" by Trinka Hakes Noble.
When and how did you realize you had a love for poetry and a passion for words?
As a teen, I had more of a love for drawing instead - writing was never interesting to me. In school, I had a particular assignment and that's when I wrote my first poem. Many of my classmates liked the poem, and I thought I may be good at this at that moment. Years later as many trials in my life began to unfold, I began writing more and more, and over time my love for poetry grew.
What does literary success look like to you?
When people stumble upon my work and they find comfort and healing.
What’s the best way you market your books?
I use social media platforms, I've increased my online presence to spread the word about my book, and getting reviews for my book.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Writing in a quiet environment is not for me, I can only write in a noisy space, The television has to be on but no music. The end of my poems is always written first, followed by the beginning of the poem, then the title. You have beautiful artwork in your novel. Where did the inspiration for those images come from? The images in my poetry book were created by my publisher. Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones? I do read my reviews. I love hearing the reader's positive and uplifting words about my poetry. With negative reviews, I would look for constructive criticism, I would look for areas where I may need to improve. If you could co-write with any author, who would it be? And what would be the genre? I would love to co-write with authors in the poetry and paranormal genre. Are you currently working on anything? Tell us a little about it. I am currently working on my second poetry book and a children's book. What would you like to say to your readers? I want to share my poems with readers' who are struggling or feeling down because I believe in the healing power of words. It's always my desire to convey positive messages to my readers. My voice is a non-judgmental light for anyone experiencing the darkness of loss, depression, and pain. I want people to be able to view my work and say, "She understands how I feel!"
To find out more about Author LaToya Martin follow her on the following platforms
Instagram: _latoyamartin
Facebook: @LaToya Shantel Marin
Twitter: @latoyamartin
Tears of me can be purchased by clicking on the following links:
Amazon- Tears of Me
Barnes & Noble- Tears of Me
Walmart.com- Tears of Me
Book Review Alert: An Orman's Revenge
Book Review Alert: An Orman's Revenge: Truson S.E.T. series
(The Truson S.E.T. Series Book 1)
Author: Dominique Gibson
Published: January 6, 2019
Publisher: Dominique Gibson
ISBN-10 : 1732957428
ISBN-13 : 978-1732957428
ASIN: B07MPTYGQ9
Rating: 4
(The Truson S.E.T. Series Book 1)
Author: Dominique Gibson
Published: January 6, 2019
Publisher: Dominique Gibson
ISBN-10 : 1732957428
ISBN-13 : 978-1732957428
ASIN: B07MPTYGQ9
Rating: 4
Book Summary
Ford Mayfield, is an educator at the Truson School. He is also an orman, which is a hybrid being that is half orca and half human. The students at the Truson school were also ormans, better known as shapeshifters, that Ford Mayfield taught how to survive on their own after the effects of the Animan Three-Hundred injection; A potion that mixes dead human and animal DNA in order to create hybrids. This injection was crucial in the creation of the ormans as it was a formula created by Dr. Madison to bring victims back to life after death. All of the ormans lived on the Island of Truson. Ford Mayfield was given an assignment by Dr. Madison to watch over and train the new orman, Mandy Stevenson. Mandy was washed up on the shore of Truson and was brought back to life as a hybrid orman. However, she does not remember anything about her past life. During this period, Ford is faced with dealing with his past as well as his future. Would Mandy be the missing link?
Overall Feeling of The Novel
The author was very imaginative in creating the Truson Island as well as the hybrid characters. In the beginning of the novel, she even listed terms that she created and their meanings that the reader will see throughout the book to gain a better understanding of the story. I felt that the novel had a good plot and was easy to follow. One thing that I would have liked to read more about was how Dr. Madison was killed being that she was an integral part of the shapeshifters’ creation. In the story, one could assume that members of the transforments were the cause of Dr. Madison’s demise, however, it wasn’t clear in the novel. It also appeared at some point in the book, Stin’s character was questionable. You would have to read the novel to see what I am speaking of; no spoilers! I’m pleased with the ending of the story. I’m curious to know, how many books will be in this series?
Patrice & Friends Meet Anjunette L. Washington.
Anjunette L. Washington
Patrice and Friends had the chance to chat it up with DC author Anjunette L. Washington. Washington told us that she loves to garden; fresh vegetables and flowers. She is a lover of coffee like I am. She is also an accountant by profession, part-time writer, and has a passion for music. Take a journey into the world of Anjunette L. Washington.
What are your favorite books?
I read from many genres but as of late. I have embraced new authors starting out. They typically write their memoirs, poetry and spoken word. However, I am drawn to suspense, mystery and crime novels because if at all. I enjoy reading characters escaping getting out of bad situations.
How do you balance making demands on the reader with taking care of the reader?
My book (s) will be on all platforms because I have to accommodate many readers and their chosen way to escape through reading. I find that readers are not wired the same. There are readers that prefer hardback, eBooks and now audio books so my goal is to accommodate as much as I can.
My book (s) will be on all platforms because I have to accommodate many readers and their chosen way to escape through reading. I find that readers are not wired the same. There are readers that prefer hardback, eBooks and now audio books so my goal is to accommodate as much as I can.
What does literary success look like to you?
In event that your goal is to possibly make movies or become a speaker then align yourself with those that can help you. Many writers will not see the cinema or be in front of an audience but they still have a story to be told.
What’s the best way you market your books?
Due to the corona-virus the process is taking a little longer. Ideally marketing can be used in several ways. Writers can express themselves on social media, websites, digital newspapers but I find word of mouth trumpets all.
If you could choose any actor to play Forester Davidson, who would it be and why?
Forester starts out as a modest little boy that grows up during harsh times. I am not really sure who could portray his character but it would be a question that I would ask my readers. I have read when writers post questions and some of the responses are well thought out.
Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?
Reviewers are extremely honest all writers want to read decent/fair reviews about their finished work. Needless to say, I have had a few bad ones so my goal is then to read what was stated. Typically, I’ve discovered that the reviewers that had bad things to say did not complete the book or do not like the genre so why pick it up? Authors make sure that the reviewer that is critiquing you written work enjoys the genre that you are writing under.
You could co-write with any author, who would it be? And what would be the genre?
I have always wanted to co-author with a writer. Two separate mindsets will be loads of fun and the genre would be suspense. Maybe in the foreseeable future and we can read each other’s plots.
Are you currently working on anything? Tell us a little about it.
I recently did a second addition on the current book we are talking about. “Book One” Now the most recent book is called: Chablis I Can Now Breathe. I am working on something now and hopeful that I will be finished within the next two months.
I recently did a second addition on the current book we are talking about. “Book One” Now the most recent book is called: Chablis I Can Now Breathe. I am working on something now and hopeful that I will be finished within the next two months.
What would you like to say to your readers?
I enjoy suspense, crime and mysteries. My characters will use all of their senses to survive a bad situation and even have some fun. My goal is to humanize my characters both bad and good which makes for an interesting read. I am hopeful that my readers will live vicariously through my characters have an enjoyable moment or maybe even learn something. I have buried secrets in my writing and I laugh when readers try to figure out which characters are actually me.
Check out our review of her latest novel Trahison: Why Weren't We the Chosen Ones.
Trahison: Why Weren't We the Chosen Ones can be purchased on Amazon in paperback and ebook version.
You can find the Author Anjunette L. Washington on the following networks:
Book Review Alert: Trahison Why Weren't We the Chosen Ones
Book Review Alert: Trahison Why Weren't We the Chosen Ones
Author: Anjunette L. Washington
Published: April 27, 2021
Publisher: Page Publishing
ISBN-13: 978-1682137628
ISBN-10: 1682137627
ASIN: n/a
Rating: 4
Author: Anjunette L. Washington
Published: April 27, 2021
Publisher: Page Publishing
ISBN-13: 978-1682137628
ISBN-10: 1682137627
ASIN: n/a
Rating: 4
This book is for the generations. It's all about the Davidson Family. Money is the foundation of the family. Mostly the men in the family. It was something that was instilled in them. Growing up with love letters and encounters with love grew in this story. Then there are the ladies. I will say that my favorite character is Chase. She placed her foot down and said I don’t love with sex. That was a You Go Girl moment. I love traveling through time with this novel. It shows life. Life in all aspects. How we grow and change as people. From single to married. From finding yourself to finding love. Take your time and read this novel. You will find little nuggets of wisdom or even some characters that remind you of those in your life.
Ms. Washington, you took your time with this novel. It is like a homemade cake. You made sure that all the ingredients work together to make this book. You created a plot line that grew with the characters. The setting changed with the mood. The growth of the book gave understanding of the plot. All these ingredients together made a great book. The only negative aspect for me is that the book was a little too long. I am a reader where my attention span is not long but there are others that are able to sit and read for long periods of time. For me I wish it was broken into two novels. Other than that, you go girl. This book was good.
Book Review Alert: You Taught Me
Book Review Alert: You Taught Me
Author: Delanda Mcnair
Published: June 20, 2019
Publisher: Truly HIS Pen LLC
ISBN-13: 978-1-7329907-0-8
Rating: 3
Summary: You Taught Me is a book about a group of friends who have to remember how to tap into their faith when the world is testing them. Each character in the book is going through their own obstacles, and it’s only through faith, prayer, and daily talks with God that they are able to make it through them. Several characters have their faith tested, but they ultimately lean into it more along with some constant reminders from their friends and family members.
There are some sentences that repeat themselves. The author would write a sentence and then right after it she paraphrased exactly what she said again. I suggest looking back over it and choosing one of the two sentences in the places you do this, both sentences are not needed. Also, please remember to add quotes when there is dialogue being spoken. I also found that lack of paragraph spacing to be a bit confusing. The author has dialogue from multiple characters and description all in one blocky paragraph. The author definitely needs to get an editor to go through the book again, because there are a lot of grammatical errors (comma splices, misplaced punctuation, etc) that make reading the book extremely confusing. The author needs to announce when the book switches over to different characters. Overall, I feel like a good revision and edit is needed.
(Reviewed by Chantel)
Book Review Alert: The Tomorrow Game
Book Review Alert: The Tomorrow Game
Author: Paul J. Chetcuti
Published: February 5, 2021
Publisher: Oakfield Books
ISBN-13: 978-1777498115
ASIN: B08TZXTT22
Rating: 5
Book Summary
Timothy Koops, in his personal opinion, lives a life of mediocrity. He didn’t take his university education seriously and now works a dead-end job as a data analyst for a research corporation. He has a longtime friend that he’s grown tired of. To make matters worse, his home life with his wife and son is not a pleasant one. Timothy has become agitated with his dealt hand of circumstances and wants more out of life. Through a mandatory assessment for work, he became eligible to participate in scientific experimentation that would ultimately alter his past and enhance his memories, as well as his perception. He began living the life that he never thought would have existed; prestige, money and power. However, Timothy’s new lifestyle would not be without repercussions.
(Reviewed by Kela)
Book Review Alert: The Many Facets of A. Starr: Purifying Thoughts
Book Review Alert: The Many Facets of A. Starr: Purifying Thoughts
Author: Amelia Isom
Published: November 15, 2019
Publisher: Amelia Isom
ISBN-13: 978-1647136864
ASIN: B0829DNNWW
Rating: 3.5 stars
We all know that growing up is hard, but what if you have been dealt a bad hand. What do you do? Meet Amelia. One of the prettiest names but that is a far road from the way she grew up. In the book The Many Facets of A. Starr, Amelia begins by telling us about her mother’s (Carol) upbringing. She talks about foster parents that raised her, Estelle and Samuel, and the relationship Carol had with them. At times smooth and rocked but overall you can see that the hand that dealt to Carol was then passed down to her. Isom was determined that she was going to do better and in this book I was rooting for her every moment.
She has many disappointments including her mother doing her wrong during the most important period in her life to her husband cheating on her while she was pregnant. In each trial she overcomes. I wanted to have more information on how you overcame the situations she was in, especially with the death of her mother. Even though her mother did her wrong you can tell that the wound of losing her was way worse than she portrays in the book. Me as the reader wanted her to peel back the bandage and bleed a little for the readers. I feel that would have given this book a little more meat.
The cover is the topping on the cake. It gives the feel of what this novel is about. Thank you for taking the time into finding a cover that is pertaining or speaks for the novel.
(Reviewed by Patrice)
Yasmine and Romeo: A Valentine’s Day Short
Book Review Alert: Yasmine and Romeo: A Valentine’s Day Short
Author: Talena Tillman
Published: January 30, 2021
Publisher: n/a
ASIN: B08VHQGLX2
Rating: 5 stars
Enter the life of Ms. Yasmine. Just left a bad relationship to go home with her tail in between her legs back to mommy and daddy. Time flies and we meet our main character again but this time she meets Dr. Pierce aka Mr. Gynecologist aka Romeo. This short, sweet, and steamy novel will take you on the ride to discover the love of Ms. Yasmine and Mr. Romeo. They go from intimate dates to putting exs in their place. I promise you, you will feel some type of way after reading this novel.
WHY WHY WHY???? How could you leave me this way. I want to know what happened. I am sitting here writing this review feeling like a kid: where as someone just took my favorite toy while the playing was getting good. A great book shot. A book that is just enough to get you through the day. Tillman you did that with this book. And the sex scene…. Look here. Girl you had me feeling some type of way. Too hot to handle. Please keep me informed when your next installment comes out.
For more information on Talena Tillman’s books, follow her at
Facebook-Talena Tillman
Instagram- @AuthorTalenaTillman
Website- https://www.authortalenatillman.com/
Book Review Alert: The Awkward Armadillo: A Mental Health Memoir
Book Review Alert: The Awkward Armadillo: A Mental Health Memoir
Author: Aimee Larson
Published: January 17, 2021
Publisher: Aimee Larson
ISBN-13: 978-1736497500
ASIN: B08SWJJ98Y
Rating: 5
Author Aimee Larson is an author and a poet who has written a memoir regarding
mental health. However, the writer has not always been good with writing, the
pronunciation of words, or the subject of English in general. In her memoir, she
discusses the impact of mental health on her family going back as far as her
grandparents; her paternal grandfather, who was an abusive alcoholic believed to be
suffering from PTSD, and maternal grandmother, who was an alcoholic narcissist. Back
in the day it was universally known that mental health issues were not discussed nor
were you to seek out for professional help. She discloses that her father, brother, as well
as herself has suffered from mental illness. She also discusses her bouts with mental
illness and how it has impacted her life negatively growing up leading up to her adult
life.
First and foremost, the author was very courageous in sharing her story. What can I say?
This was an exhilarating read! I absolutely loved the author's writing style, which was
indeed unique and raw. I loved that she was able to incorporate poetry into this novel. I
was pleased that her father finally agreed to receiving help, which improved his quality
of life. I was also happy to read that Aimee came to terms with her mental illness and
termed her symptoms “armadillo mode”. I’m sure many people who may read this book
would be able to relate to this terminology as people suffering from mental illness tend
to shut themselves off from society, as an armadillo may tuck away into its shell. In the
memoir, the author was able to finally start loving herself more by making positive
decisions for her life, whether it made her uncomfortable in the beginning or not. This
was a pure example of stepping out of your comfort zone, or in her case, coming out of
her armadillo shell. I was happy to read that with all of her awkwardness she was able to
find true love and develop a true support system. I would recommend this read and give
it ten stars if I could. The author also wrote in her memoir that she plans to write more.
I would gladly read more from this author.
(Reviewed by Kelva)
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