LW!'s The Author's Hideaway!

Morgan Love Virtual Book Tour

2012-02-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

About the Author

About the Books

The Morgan Love Series is a chapter bookseries written for girls, 7 – 9 years old. The series provides moral lessonsthat will aid in character development. It will also help young girls develop their vocabulary, English and mathskills as they read through the stories and complete the entertaining andeducational exercises provided at the end of each chapter and in the back ofthe book.

A+ Attitude

Morganis sad and mad at the world because things are not going the way shewants. Why does my daddy have to leaveagain to save the country? Why do I haveto go live with mommy and her new husband? Why does my mommy have to have a newbaby? Why do I have to go to a new school? Why do I have to make new friends? Why? Why? Why? Though she ishaving a hard time adjusting to all the new things in her life, especially hernew baby brother and stepdad, Derek, Morgan makes up her mind that no matterwhat is going on, she is going to have an A+ attitude.

Speak Up

WhenMorgan discovers that Antoine and Alec, the new kids on her block are bigbullies she doesn’t know what to do. When she goes back to school, she findsout that Alec is the also the new kid in her class. When her friend Trey, stopshanging out with her and the others and hangs out with Alec instead, she isworried. She doesn’t want Trey to get into trouble nor have the other kidsthink she’s a tattletale. Morgan is having a hard time knowing what she shoulddo. Should she continue to keep quiet oris it time to speak up?

Something Special

Morgan,wanting to fit in with the crowd, teases a large girl and a special-ed kid atschool. When she is caught she has to goto the principal’s office. When shefinds out how much her teasing hurt her classmates she feels bad. Later, whileplaying together, Morgan and her cousins all share a secret wish. Morgan wants to be prettier. Drake wants tobe taller. Sadie wants longer hair. Whenshe goes to vacation bible school Morgan learns that God made each person justthe way they are for a reason, even those kids she laughed at and teased. Justthe way they are, is okay and they are all something special to God.

Right Thing

WhenMorgan lets her best friend, Brook talk her into doing something her mommytells her not to do, she gets into trouble. But that does not stop Morgan from disobeying her mommy again. When she ignores her mommy and takes her iPodto school, she not only gets in trouble but is badly hurt by one of the oldergirls. She learns that when she doesn’tobey her parents she is not only letting them down but God too. The next timeBrook tries to talk Morgan into doing what she knows is wrong; Morgan decidesto do the right thing.

No Fear

Don’t be afraid. Have no fear. That’s what Morgan’s parents andgrandparents were always telling her. But she was having a hard time doing what they said as she thought aboutthe big test coming up and wondered if her daddy was on the navy shipped thatwas recently attacked. When Morgan shares her fears with her mommy, her mommytells her about the good news from God and about Heaven, Morgan begins tounderstand why her parents and grandparents are always telling her to have nofear.

Purchase the Books Online at:

Amazon.com

BarnesandNoble.com

Book Trailer:

Book Review

Date: 2/10/12

Title: A+Attitude (Morgan Love Series – Book 1)

Author: StephaniePerry

ISBN 10: 0802422632

ISBN 13: 978-0802422637

Pages: 144

Publisher: LiftEvery Voice

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant– LiteraryWonders!

Rating: 4Stars

Morgan Love is a sassy little second graderwho is not happy about her father’s military travels. She’s not happy that herparents are divorced and living separate lives either. What she is happy about,is that her grandmother and grandfather, whom she affectionately calls Mama andPapa. To Morgan, Mama and Papa cares about how she feels about things, unlikeher mother, who decided to have a new baby, with her new husband, withoutasking Morgan. To top things off, Morgan has to attend a new school.

The Morgan Love Series, by Stephanie Perry Moore, is great readingfor young children. In addition to life lessons that lie within the stories, Mrs. Moore has highlighted vocabularywords throughout the book and ends each chapter with an education activity—and letters to her father.

TheMorgan Love Series is both entertaining and educational. Kudos to StephaniePerry Moore.

For More Information

Visit the author online at:

www.stephanieperrymoore.com

View the blog tour schedule at:

http://www.tywebbin.com/blog-tours/authors-on-tour/2012-tours/

BLOG TOUR: Guilty by Association Blog Tour

2012-01-31T08:58:00.000-05:00

About the Author

Pat Simmons is a self-proclaimed genealogy sleuth. She is passionate about digging up the dirt on her ancestors, then casting them in starring roles in her novels. She has been a genealogy enthusiast since her great-grandmother died at the young age of ninety-seven years old. Pat has won numerous awards for her novels which include: Talk to Me, Grace and Humility and Still Guilty, which was voted the Best Inspirational Romance for 2010. Pat is best known for her Guilty series: Guilty of Love, Not Guilty of Love, and Still Guilty. She is continuing the series through the Jamieson Family Legacy trilogy: Guilty by Association, The Guilt Trip, Free From Guilt. Pat has recently been nominated for the best Christian fiction award by the African American Literary Awards for her latest release, Crowning Glory. Pat and her husband live in Missouri and have two children. Visit Patricia at http://www.patsimmons.net.

About the Book

The Jamieson Family Legacy series follow the lives of two Jamieson brothers in Boston, Kidd and Ace, and their cousin, Cameron, from St. Louis. The older brother, Kidd, is struggling with anger and resentment issues toward his absentee father who never married his mother. Yet, he had the audacity to demand his illegitimate sons carry his Jamieson name. Ace, on the other hand, is on his collision course to be a chip off the old block when it comes to women. Their highly MIT educated cousin, Cameron Jamieson, is all about saving family from self-destruction. Through genealogy research, Cameron's mission is to show his cousins their worth as the eleventh generation descendants of a royal African tribe and to give them a choice: live with the stereotypical "angry black men" syndrome or to crush any obstacles that try and stop them to become strong successful black men.

There are three books in the Jamieson Legacy series: Guilty by Association (Kidd's story), The Guilt Trip (Ace's story), and Free from Guilt (Cameron's story). Each of the three Jamieson men have to accept that their past and present are in God's hand, and without Him they can't advance to their future blessings. The bonus storyline in Guilty by Association is one that progresses the story of the much-loved character in the previous three book Guilty Series, Grandma BB. This time, she picks up a sidekick Mrs. Valentine.

Guilty by Association is the story of Boston bad boy Kevin "Kidd" Jamieson. His gripe is with his father who dared to insist that his two illegitimate sons carry his last name. To add insult to injury, the man never bothered to stick around to provide love and guidance as his boys matured into men. Kidd's anger overflows into every area of his life. As his animosity festers, Kidd becomes as a roaring lion, seeking whatever and whomever he can devour. He's as gritty as his cousin in St. Louis, Parke Jamieson VI, is polished. The two strong-willed men clash when Kidd relocates to St. Louis where his cousin assures him it's a land of milk and money in job opportunities. Where is lands a job is far from it.

Through a series of events that involve Grandma BB, her dog named Silent Killer and her Stacy Adams shoes, Kidd meets two women who recognize his hostile tendencies and immediately begin to administer CPR to his soul. LPN Eva Savoy eventually becomes his "Eve," a woman God created from the underlying goodness hidden in Kidd's own heart.

Reluctantly, Kidd allows Parke to divulge information about their royal family heritage. While everyone's care and compassion begins to smother Kidd, he struggles to keep up the bad boy attitude as his walls start to crumble. Kidd learns it's not his association with the name that identifies him, but the man he becomes that defines him.

Purchase the Book Online at: Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com

Book Trailer:

Book Review

Date: 1/29/12

Title: Guilty by Association

Author: Pat Simmons

ISBN 10: 0802403689

ISBN 13: 978-0802403681

Pages: 353

Publisher: Lift Every Voice Books

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant– Literary Wonders!

Rating: 4 Stars

Guilty by Association, by Pat Simmons is the first installment of the Jamieson Legacy. Kevin Jamieson, affectionately nicknamed “Kidd”, has been struggling with abandonment issues. And, like many black men, he’s angry at the world and his father. If it were up to him, he wouldn’t have his father’s last name. The Jamieson meant everything he never wanted to be.

Kidd is soon sought after by Jamieson descents, and Kidd is none too happy about it. After much thought, Kidd finally gives in to the Jamieson plea for him to learn more about his family history, Kidd heads to St. Louis, Missouri for a better life, love and revelations of his African heritage.

The book was slow at times, and I found myself having to put it down on occasion, as I could not read it in one sitting. Nonetheless, it was a good book. I enjoyed the way Simmons weaved genealogy and ancestry into the storyline. I am interested in the other installments of the Jamieson Legacy and am equally interested in following Kevin and Eva through their journey.

For More Information

Visit the author online at:

www.patsimmons.net

twitter.com@patsimmons

facebook.com/patsimmonsauthor.

View the blog tour schedule at :

http://www.tywebbin.com/blog-tours/authors-on-tour/2012-tours/

BLOG TOUR: Alec London Virtual Book Tour

2012-01-31T06:00:00.003-05:00

INTRODUCING THE ALEC LONDON SERIES
The Alec London Series is a series written for boys, 8 – 12 years old. Alec London is introduced in Stephanie Perry Moore’s previously released series, The Morgan Love Series. In this new series, readers get a glimpse of Alec’s life up close and personal. The series provides moral lessons that will aid in character development, teaching boys how to effectively deal with the various issues they face at this stage of life. The series will also help boys develop their English and math skills as they read through the stories and complete the entertaining and educational exercises provided at the end of each chapter and in the back of the book.

Making the Team

Alec London is a fourth grader whose have a tough time. His dad is the new assistant principal at school; his classmate Tyrod is bullying him; his brother, Antoine is mad with him and his mom is going away for a long period of time because of her job. Through the game of football, lessons from his dad and a story about a man named Joseph, Alec learns that God cares about him and will help him out when he is struggling.

Learning the Rules

Alec feels abandoned by his mom. Now his brother Antoine and their cousin Little P are mad with him. At school when his tries to take up for a new kid in school he gets into trouble. Alec is trying to do his best but he just can’t seem to get things right. When he goes to church on Easter Sunday, the pastor shares a message that helps him to look at everything a different way.

Going the Distance

The school year is ending. Alec is looking forward to sleeping late and no bullying. But dad and mom have other plans for him this summer. Dad wants him to play baseball and mom puts him in an acting camp. He doesn’t want to do either but decides to try anyway. Alec hates baseball but dad won’t let him quit. He loves acting but mom won’t let him continue when he gets a part in a Disney show. Alec is upset with his parents but he learns that even when things don’t go his way he must still obey God by honoring his parents.

Winning the Battle

The summer is over and Alec is back in school. Tyrod has a new friend Zarrick who also bullies Alec and mom is still away. In response to all that's going on in his life Alec begins to act out in school, sleep in class and hang around with the wrong crowd. And, to protect himself, he starts taking karate lessons. With the help of his karate instructor, parents, old friends, Alec learns that being disciplined and learning to respond to things in a way that pleases God are important when it comes to winning the battle.

Taking the Lead
Alec is voted class president and joins the track team. Though Tyrod continues to bully him, Alec tries to become friends. Everything is going well for him until he loses his grandmother. Alec becomes sad and gets off track but running track and working with the Special Olympics kids helps him work through the things happening at home and school. When his team wins the county title Alec thinks about how proud his grandmother was of him for learning how to take the lead.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

STEPHANIE PERRY MOORE is the author of many Young Adult Christian fiction titles, including the Payton Skky series, the Laurel Shadrach series, the Perry Skky Jr. series, the Faith Thomas Novelzine series, the Carmen Browne series, and the Beta Gamma Pi series. She is also the co-editor for the impactful BibleZine, REAL. Mrs. Moore speaks with young people across the country, showing them how they can live life fully and do it God’s way. Stephanie currently lives in the greater Atlanta area with her husband, Derrick, a former NFL player and author, and their three children. Visit her website at www.stephanieperrymoore.com.

DERRICK MOORE is a former NFL athlete who played for the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, and Arizona Cardinals following his successful college football career. Since his retirement from the NFL in 1998 he has been in demand as a motivational speaker for professional teams, civic groups, churches, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is on staff with FCA, serving as the chaplain of the football program at Georgia Tech. Derrick is the author of The Great Adventure and the general editor for the Strength and Honor Bible.

BOOK REVIEW

Date: 1/29/11

Title: Making the Team (Alec London Series)

Author: Stephanie Perry Moore and Derrick Moore

ISBN 10: 0802404111

ISBN 13: 978-0802404114

Pages: 160

Publisher: Lift Every Voice

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 5 Stars

I am always glad when I can find something positive for our young children, our African-American children, especially African-American boys.

Making the team is about an AA boy named Alec London. Alec endures adolescent issues that are expected when a child is displaced from one area and school to another. In addition, Alec witnesses his parents in several arguments and eventually his mother moves across the country to pursue an acting career. In addition, Alec is having troubles in school while missing his mother dearly.

The Moores’ have done a swell job in showing African-American boys in a positive light. Not all young black males, do drugs, join gangs and other mischievous activity that media has made them known for.

I love the letters Alec writes to his mother at the end of each chapter, along with the various types of puzzles and quizzes. In my opinion, this breaks up the monotony for its readers and challenges them not only to read, but also to think. So many children’s and young adult titles are geared towards females; it’s refreshing to see literature for boys.

I recommend this book, and the entire series, to any young boy, of any culture.

Purchase the Books Online at:

Amazon.com

BarnesandNoble.com

For More Information, Visit the author online at:

http://www.stephanieperrymoore.com

View the blog tour schedule at:

http://www.tywebbinvirtualevents.com

2012-01-25T20:57:00.001-05:00

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The Essential Handbook for Buying a Home by Karen Rittenhouse

2012-01-09T22:33:00.001-05:00

Date: 12/31/11

Title: The Essential Handbook For Buying a Home

Author: Karen Rittenhouse

ISBN 10: 0983775249

ISBN 13: 978-0983775249

Pages: 143

Publisher: Southeastern Investments, LLC

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 5 Stars

The Essential Handbook for Buying a Home by Karen Rittenhouse is a great tool for first-time homebuyers, those who have previously owned a home and those who currently own a home.

In the current down turn in the housing market, homeowners and potential homeowners need to be armed with as much information as possible to help them decide if owning a home is really for them and if now is the time to own one.

Rittenhouse’s book includes information that most real estate agents and lenders won’t necessarily tell you. For instance, there are opportunities available that will allow a buyer to lease a home before they buy, but many potential buyers may not get this information unless they know to ask.

The Essential Handbook for Buying a Home will arm its readers with valuable information such as the differences between pre-qualification and pre-approval, things that will hurt a potential buyer’s chance of getting a mortgage, the importance of credit, and buying options such as short sales, foreclosures and REOs.

This book is chock full of information that is imperative to a potential buyers ability to obtain and maintain a mortgage. I wish this book were around when I bought my first house.

Kudos to Karen for putting what can be a grueling and complicated process, in simple, laymen terms.

REVIEW - Sinners & Saints by V.C. Murray and R.T. Billingsley

2012-01-09T20:04:00.000-05:00

Date: 1/5/12

Title: Sinners & Saints

Author: V.C. Murray/R.T. Billingsley

ISBN 10: 1451608152

ISBN 13: 978-1451608151

Pages: 226

Publisher: Touchstone

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 5 Stars

Whether you’re teach Rachel or team Jasmine—whether you’re a Victoria Christopher Murray or ReShonda Tate Billingsley fan, if you love drama, you’ll love this novel.

I happen to be a fan of both authors and Sinners & Saints was a brilliant idea that is well written and well paced. I was excited to see the collaboration of these two authors as they worked their “first-diva-drama” magic.

First lady Jasmine Larson Bush has a tainted background but she is the crème-del-a-crème of first ladies and she is not to be crossed. Her husband, Hosea Bush, is the pastor of a church of over ten thousand members.

Fist lady Rachel Jackson Adams also has a less than savory background, and like First Lady Bush, First Lady Adams will go to any lengths to get what she wants. Her husband, Lester Adams, is the pastor of about three thousand.

The two ladies’ worlds collide when both their husbands are nominated for the leader of the American Baptist Coalition. These two first ladies pull no punches as they try to on-up each other, to ensure that their husband wins the nomination and becomes the leader of one of the largest and powerful religious groups. In addition to making each other’s lives miserable, the two ladies fight to win the approval of the coalition’s current first lady, Cecilia King.

Sinners & Saints had me laughing and shaking my head. In this sad but true tale of how some folk really act in the Christian church; both Murray and Billingsley have remained consistent in bringing their readers true-to-life characters that we can all relate to.

Sinners & Saints is a 2012 must read—Murray and Billingsley, seamlessly, merged the lives of their villains in this excellent tale of mercy and grace—and lots of drama!

REVIEW - The Blood Done Signed My Name

2012-01-03T09:04:00.000-05:00

Date: 12/4/11

Title: The Blood Done Signed My Name

Author: M. ANN RICKS

ISBN 10: 0-615-45273-6

ISBN 13: 978-0-615-45273-9

Pages:

Publisher: May House Press & Publications, LLC

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Tamara Bryant – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 3.5

THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME begins with details from a family’s past. M. Ann Ricks attempts and succeeds in detailing family issues that can affect offspring for years if we don’t remember that even with our issues, God can deliver us from all.

The main character, Honey, is dealt an abusive life. As a child and tends to live her life within the shadow of the abuse even as she matures and accomplishes many of her goals. However, Honey’s greatest challenge is seeking to fill the void that only God can fill.

Honey’s journey to find the peace and love that only God can provide takes her back to her past surroundings and she discovers truths that will finally set her in a direction that may set her free if she will only be willing to listen to God’s calling.

REVIEW - 30 Poems, 30 Days: Inside a Poet's Mind

2012-01-03T08:59:00.001-05:00

Date: October 21, 2011
Title: 30 Poems, 30 Days: Inside a Poets Mind
Author:   A.D. Joyce
ISBN 13: Electronic ARC
Pages:   46
Publisher:   Unknown
Cover: E-book
Reviewer: Gregory W. Bryant – Literary Wonders!
Rating: 4 Stars

Author, A.D. Joyce has created an innovative take on poetry month. Her strategy of composing a poem a day into book form is very interesting.

Author Joyce shows versatility in different styles of poetry, particularly Japanese forms of Haiku and Tanka. I am now familiar with the poetic form of Fib and Cinquains. She gives a definition of each form as well as her motivation for writing the piece, which I truly found informative.

She has a multitude of forms from Sonnets to free verse. I especially liked the poem Incomplete Sonnet. There Is something for everyone in this book. I truly recommend this as a good read.

Good luck to you author A.D. Joyce and thank you for taking the reader on a poetic journey.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T17:29:00.002-05:00

REVIEW - Just One Thing by Rick Hanson PhD

2011-12-26T00:00:00.001-05:00

Date: November 27, 2012

Title: Just One Thing

Author: Rick Hanson

ISBN 13: 978-1608820313

Pages: 117

Publisher: Smith Publicity – New Harbinger Publications

Cover: Electronic Galley

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 4 Stars

Just One Thing by Rick Hanson is a non-fiction, self-help selection that suggests strategies to retrain your brain and your thought process to live a more positive and fulfilling life. I’ve followed Rick for a short time now and I believe that his practices will work for anyone looking to improve their life.

Rick uses scientific facts and studies of the brain and its different sectors. He shows ways that one can re-train their brain to capture more positive thoughts than negative ones.

Reading Just One Thing has repositioned my thought process and I have implemented positive life choices that I intend to exemplify in the coming New Year. Unlike many books of this genre and topic, Just One Thing is one of those books that you will find yourself referring back to on a regular basis.

There are fifty-two principles to follow in this book—that’s one principle per week. The principles rang from relaxation and sleep, to smiling and being generous. This book review is based on an electronic galley; however, I will be purchasing the book for my self-improvement library as I feel is a book that will be used frequently.

On the 12th Day of Christmas - Sha Lognion and Fancy Your Place LLC

2011-12-25T00:00:00.002-05:00

(Click here to listen to Sha's interview) Also on iTunes.

Sha Lognion is Executive Chef and Owner of Fancy Your Plate. Fancy Your Plate is an online gourmet frozen food company that delivers to the United States, and if you are in the Maumelle, Little Rock, North Little Rock, AR area she also offers catering services. With a passion for cooking exquisite foods for anyone to enjoy, she founded Fancy Your Plate because she noticed that the need for personal chefs was decreasing due to the economic times. She feels everyone should be able to enjoy a gourmet meal without having to pay gourmet prices.

Sha started cooking at the age of seven, and as she got older, and with a more elegant palate, she expanded her repertoire and her recipe catalogue. She is a traditional Southern cook and also specializes in Creole and French cuisine, and can cater to any dietary need. And, when she is not in the kitchen, she likes to compete in cooking competitions and travel with her family to different food festivals.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

2011-12-24T18:53:00.000-05:00

Click here to view and listen on iTunes.

On the 11th Day of Christmas - Chisa "LadyBizness" Pennix-Brown

2011-12-24T00:00:00.001-05:00

(Click here to listen to LadyBizness' interview) Also on iTunes.

If you’re not familiar with Chisa Pennix-Brown’s name, you certainly know her brand. LadyBizness was incorporated in March of 2010 as an effort to aid women owned businesses. The motto is Women Helping Women; this is achieved through events and instructional series. Their anthem is Show Up & Show Out; this is achieved through their Mobile Boutique & Shopping Parties we sponsor.

Check out www.LadyBizness.Issuu.com if you're interested in booking the Lady Bizness Mobile Boutique.

Chisa is also a Social Media Concierge. She sponsors business development classes such as, Advertising on a Budget, and will teach Social Media How-to Classes.

LadyBizness also maintains the website www.LadyBizness.com providing a marketing platform for members, organizations, and events. Lady Bizness sponsors several small businesses through the website. In addition, the brand facilitates several Face book groups; including Bizness Ladiez and contributions to Women of Color Making Changes. They manage www.LadyBizness.Meetup.com, and writes for www.LadyBizness.wordpress.com.

Contact Chisa D Pennix-Brown, MBA at LadyBiznessOnline@Yahooo.com or search at either www.Facebook.com.RealLadyBizness or www.Facebook.com/OfficialLadyBizess.

On the 10th Day of Christmas - Tee C. Royal

2011-12-23T00:00:00.001-05:00

(Click here to listen to Tee C.'s interview) Also on iTunes.

Tee C. Royal is the founder, owner and operator of RAWSISTAZ Literary Group. RAWSISTAZ, Reading And Writing SISTAZ was founded September 2000 by this literary belle. RAWSISTAZ is a permanent and constant fixture in the African-American literary community.

RAWSISTAZ features African-American authors, reviews books by African-American authors and supports literary works of African American Authors. RAWSISTAZ has a team of reviews and various chapters across the United States.

Tee C. Royal is also a freelance reviewer, editor, literary agent and web designer. She is a wife and mother of two beautiful children.

Mrs. Royal is a graduate of Grambling State University and a former Captain with the United States Air Force. When it comes to web design and African-American literacy, Tee C. is a true Royal!

On the 9th Day of Christmas - Algenon Cash

2011-12-22T00:00:00.005-05:00

(Click here to listen to Algenon's interview) Also on iTunes

Algenon (Al-ja-non) is managing director of Wharton Gladden, a boutique real estate investment banking firm headquartered in North Carolina. In 2003, Algenon and a group of private investors created Wharton Gladden to provide small and middle market business owners, real estate developers, and investors with commercial mortgage banking, private equity, and capital markets advisory. Today, Wharton Gladden has strategically advised clients on over $1 Billion in whole loan acquisitions and liquidations, and the firm has been engaged in 119 multifamily and commercial real estate transactions that have totaled over $250 Million.

Algenon launched the Wharton Gladden Foundation in 2009 to honor the lifelong contributions of Irene Wharton and Franklin Gladden. The foundation supports local charities that provide services to victims of homelessness, substance abuse, and domestic violence. Algenon serves as chairman of the Wharton Gladden Foundation.

Algenon served on the board of directors of TREBIC, an association that is dedicated to promoting economic development, balanced growth, and protecting private property rights. He is a past member of NAIOP / Commercial Real Estate Development Association board of directors, an association that is committed to providing commercial real estate developers with innovative strategies, education, and networking. He was appointed to NAIOP National Young Professionals Forum and met with peers from around the country to tackle issues concerning young executives in the commercial real estate industry. In addition, NAIOP appointed Algenon to their National Membership Committee to help create and implement strategies that will lead to effective recruitment and retention of members. Lastly, Algenon serves on the advisory board for local small business – Efird Sutphin & Pearce, and Bennett College’s Students in Free Enterprise.

In 2007, Algenon organized a variety of real estate associations in the Piedmont to host the Triad Dealmakers Symposium, an event that promoted regional networking and education to over 200 attendees. In the same year, he created and led the implementation of the Piedmont Real Estate Council to provide highly valued programming to members of the regional real estate community.

In 2010, the North Carolina Council on Economic Education appointed Algenon to their board of directors, and subsequently to the executive committee. Algenon serves as the Governmental Affairs Chair and he co-chairs the Marketing /Public Relations Committee. In 2011, the Piedmont Club, which is a premier business club in the Piedmont Triad, appointed Algenon to chair the Membership Council and serve on their Board of Governors. Algenon is responsible for developing and leading the Piedmont Club’s inaugural membership campaign.

Algenon has received a variety of prestigious awards and recognitions. In 2006, he was named a Paul Harris Fellow with Rotary International. In 2007, he was named one of the Triad Business Journal’s “40 Leaders under Forty”. In the same year, he was one of 15 recipients and the only one selected in the Southeast to receive a National Developing Leaders Award. In 2008, Business Leader Media named Algenon one of 30 “Triad Movers & Shakers” and one of 24 “Impact Leaders” in the real estate industry. In 2009 and 2010, Business Leader Media named Wharton Gladden one of North Carolina’s “Top 100 Small Businesses”. In 2011, Business Leader Media named Wharton Gladden one of the “Top 300 Small Businesses in the Southeast”.

Algenon is growing to become a speaker in great demand and he now speaks to a variety of businesses and professional groups about real estate, capital markets, wealth building, success, and leadership. Algenon has been profiled in a variety of publications such as the Triad Business Journal, Business Leader Magazine, and Development Magazine. He writes a regular blog at AlgenonCash.com. He is a guru on personal finance and appeared regularly on 97.1 QMG with radio personality Busta Brown, and he was the co-host of Community Focus with Renee Vaughn.

On the 8th Day of Christmas William "Bill" Brown

2011-12-21T01:06:00.000-05:00

(Click here to listen to Bill’s interview) Also on iTunes

William “Bill” Brown is the creator and owner of Ideas for AV. Bill specializes in Audio Visual and Information Technology solutions for small businesses and corporations.

He is committed to excellence in customer service and is very intuitive regarding customer needs. His professionalism, approachability, and knowledge make him credible and trusted. His follow-thru and follow-up, which insures client satisfaction, sets him apart from others in his industry.

Ideas for AV provide professional services covering every phase of a project life cycle, from situational assessments and technology audits to implementation project management and transition to sustaining operations. We offer consulting services through on-site and virtual meetings, workshops and speaking engagements in areas of Technology Needs Assessment, AV/IT Consulting, Managed Services, Technology Staffing and R4 Programs.

In addition to his AV and IT expertise, Bill is also a member of Toastmasters International, having achieved his Advanced Communicator Bronze and his Competent Communicator Awards. His other memberships and certifications include InfoComm International, Project Management Institute and National Systems Contractors Association.

www.ideasforav.com

info@ideasforav.com

On the 7th Day of Christmas - Sondra Wright

2011-12-20T00:00:00.002-05:00

(Click here to listen to Sondra's interview) Also on iTunes
Sondra Wright radiates a warm energy that connects with women everywhere the moment she walks into a room. With a truly dynamic presence, she is a powerful leader in coaching and mentorship and has served to inspire thousands of women on to life transformational journeys.

Involved in the health and wellness industry for more than a decade, Sondra has dedicated her life’s work to empowering women through her speaking, writing and mentoring programs. An inductee into the Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society, she is an honors graduate of the Master’s degree program in Counseling and Human Resources and B.A. degree program in Psychology from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. She is a member of various professional societies including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and operates a thriving commercial landscape construction company in the Piedmont region of central North Carolina.

Midway into her career Sondra turned her professional focus to making a significant contribution in two important areas for women; entrepreneurship and natural healthcare and alternative therapies. A prolific speaker, Sondra has led hundreds of seminars and workshops on topics such as, “Rethink Your Inc: Incorporating Savvy for Women,’” “Thriving in The New Economy,” “The Heart Smart Woman,” “Why Cure it For $3 When We Can Treat it For $20? And Other Things Your MD Won’t Say.” Upon discovering the universal challenges many women face in midlife and how faulty midlife mindsets tests a woman’s confidence, self-esteem and ability to move forward, Sondra chose to focus her life’s work on helping women live FEARLESSLY in midlife and beyond. As a result Sondra was forced to examine her own life and make sure she was not just talking the talk, but walking the walk; living authentically and completely aligned with all she was teaching about reinvention and transformation in midlife. Within a year of founding Forty Plus and Fabulous, LLC, Sondra fulfilled a childhood dream and published the first book in her series, ‘40+ and Fabulous: Moving Forward Fierce, Focused and Full of Life!”

Committed to community service, Sondra has served on the Board of Directors for Seniors Solutions of North Carolina and Beauty4Ashes International and as a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and the Youth Focus Teen Crisis Hotline. Continuing her dedicated service to youth and the aging she currently serves on the Steering Committee for the Kinship Care Coalition and Advocacy Group of North Carolina; the Board of Directors for KinGap Services of North Carolina, and as a volunteer Guardian ad Litem.

http://fortyplusandfabulous.com

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/lw!s-the-authors-hideaway!/id489293831

On the 6th Day of Christmas - Kristen Eckstein

2011-12-19T00:00:00.004-05:00

(Click here to listen to Kristen's interview) Also on iTunes
Other people call me “The Ultimate Book Coach”. You can call me Kristen. I’m a book-loving, chocolate-eating, stuffed animal-hugging, people-craving gal who cannot imagine a life without books. I started writing when I was five years old, read my first “adult” level novel when I was nine and now I’m the author of six books with two more scheduled for release before the end of 2011. My need for books is as great as my need for food.

In 2003 I served as the Marketing Director for a vanity publishing company that featured a traditional publishing arm. I learned the ins and outs of vanity, subsidy and traditional publishing – what to look for, what to avoid and how to make sure authors don’t get ripped off. I also published two of my own books in less than a year.

When I left that company, my husband and I co-founded Imagine! Studios, LLC, an art and media production company. We soon began publishing authors’ books again under our own label, and I published another book of my own. A relocation caused us to hand that portion of our business off to another capable publisher and I began my next role as a publishing consultant.

www.FinishTheBook.com

http://iampublished.com/

www.MarketMyBookNow.com/

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/lw!s-the-authors-hideaway!/id489293831

On the 5th Day of Christmas - Tammy Holyfield

2011-12-18T00:00:00.004-05:00

(Click here to listen to Tammy's Interview) Also on iTunes
Tammy Holyfield is an accomplished professional speaker, leadership expert, author and consultant, on a mission to teach and inspire people to improve their everyday life!

Using the methods and principles she teaches, Tammy has overcome great obstacles. Her message is dynamic, encouraging people to succeed and inspiring them to act!

Holyfield began her professional career in marketing and served as the Director of Marketing for Summit Pet Product Distributors, the IAMs Pet Food (Proctor and Gamble) regional distribution center. Today, she is the founder and CEO of Holyfield Consulting, a personal and business development company. Holyfield Consulting specializes in organizational development, strategic planning, communication, building trust, strengthening teams, leadership development, increasing accountability and executing results. Each week she writes a column entitled “Ask the Coach”® which provides readers a fresh perspective on current challenges facing the business world.

Tammy addresses thousands of people each year from diverse Fortune 500 companies and has consulted, and trained entrepreneurs, CEO’s, professionals and individuals from all walks of life. Her ideas are proven, practical and get results. And clients say that working with Tammy created an increase in moral, solidified corporate culture, and bridged the communication gap from vision to results. Her audiences and clients agree, Tammy teaches techniques and strategies that are easy to understand and put to use immediately to achieve greater results in their lives and careers. Tammy and her family make their home in High Point, NC.

www.tammyholyfield.com

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/lw!s-the-authors-hideaway!/id489293831

On the 4th Day of Christmas - Simply Sue Falcone

2011-12-17T00:00:00.003-05:00

(Click here to listen to Sue's interview) - Also on iTunes

Illegitimate and not expected to live, Sue Falcone, known as "Simply" Sue is an expert in the art of overcoming adversity.

"Simply" Sue has climbed over life's obstacles thrown in her path: fear, insecurity, physical and emotional abuse, doubt, obesity (weighing over 300 lbs) and financial meltdown (overe 160k in debt). In spite of the trials, she overcame them to become a successful AT&T executive, and direct sales and service business owner.

Using this varied background and growth from life experiences, "Simply" Sue has transformed these principles and used them as a dynamic international motivational Speaker, Trainer, Life Coach, and Published Author.

"Simply" Sue dared to live her dreams through her faith in God and developed tools for success, in spite of many adversities. She uses these proven strategies and equips companies, groups, and individuals who want to achieve their full potential now.

How? "Simply" Sue outlines compelling and empowering keynotes, leads break-out sessions, creates workshops, and designs seminars & retreats to reveal simple change-agents for organizations and individuals.

"Simply" Sue is well equipped to speak in a variety of settings, and is available to partner with other speakers.

www.simplysuespeaks.com

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/lw!s-the-authors-hideaway!/id489293831

On the 3rd Day of Christmas - Shelia Goss

2011-12-16T00:00:00.004-05:00

(Click here to listen to Shelia's interview) Also on iTunes

Shelia M. Goss writes in multiple genres. She is the author of the Essence Magazine, Dallas Morning News and Black Expressions Bestseller My Invisible Husband andRoses are thorns, Violets are true, Paige’s Web,Double Platinum, His Invisible Wife, Hollywood Deception, Delilah, Savannah’s Curse, and Ruthless (Dec. 2011). She’s also the author of the young adult book series The Lip Gloss Chronicles: The Ultimate Test, Splitsville, Paper Thin, Secrets Untold and Secrets Undone (2012).

Her books are available in stores or from any of the online retailers or order direct from www.kensingtonbooks.com.

Shelia also writes young adult fiction. Be sure to share the news of her books with a teen in your life. The website iswww.thelipglosschronicles.com. The Ultimate Test, Splitsville, Paper Thin, and Secrets Untold are the books in the Lip Gloss Chronicles series.

Although Shelia has a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, her passion for writing has always been there. Shelia decided to pursue her life-long dream after being down-sized from a fortune 500 company.

www.sheliamgoss.com

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/lw!s-the-authors-hideaway!/id489293831

On the 2nd Day of Christmas - John T. Wills

2011-12-15T00:00:00.006-05:00

(Click here to listen to John's interview) Also on iTunes

John T. Wills is an author, speaker, past professor, teacher, publisher, contributor to newspapers and online magazines. Executive Producer of the most dynamic and exciting literary radio show on the air; “The Book Tree Radio Show” is a designed to promote literacy, showcase authors, writers, wordsmiths, poets and other relevant content to empower the minds of a broad base community.

Mr. Wills has earned a Master’s and Bachelors Degree in Business Administration. He's been a professor at Sojourner-Douglass College (HBC), Past Board Member of the Bowie State University Foundation, President of JT Wills Consulting, Past Vice President of the MD/DC Minority Supplier Development Council, one of the hosts of the Black Empowered Men Radio Show, author of “Just a Season” and "Legacy - A New Season", a Journalist by way of the Washington Examiner and a blogging, supporter of several community organizations, a volunteer, a strong advocate for literacy empowerment and friend to many.

Any accolades attributed to his spirit are the result of the solid foundation provided by a loving grandfather. This great man assertively implanted the concept that knowledge is power, which developed into the understanding that education is the single most important ingredient necessary to neutralize those forces that breed poverty and despair. This philosophy planted the seeds that cultivated a life, which is “Just a Season".

www.johntwills.com

www.justaseason.com

http://www.spreaker.com/page#!/show/let_s_talk_about_it_4

http://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/lw!s-the-authors-hideaway!/id489293831

On the 1st Day of Christmas Bonnie Calhoun

2011-12-14T00:00:00.009-05:00

(Click here to listen to Bonnie's interview) Also on iTunes
Bonnie Calhoun is the Owner/Director of the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance (CFBA) where she has 250+ book reviewer blogs that twice weekly do blog tours for the latest in Christian fiction. She is also the Owner/Publisher of Christian Fiction Online Magazine (CFOM), a three-year-old, 50+ page Ezine with columns and articles by the best and brightest authors and professionals in Christian fiction. Bonnie Services as the President of the Christian Author's Network (CAN), and Northeast Zone Director of America Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).
Bonnie's debut novel, Cooking the Books is due to be released in April 2012.

Welcome to the 12 Days of Christmas!

2011-12-13T16:34:00.001-05:00

Hello America! I’m that Literary Lady and I’d like to welcome you to the 12 Days of Christmas presented by Literary Wonders! Media Group and Bryant Consulting. As you know, Bryant Consulting features entrepreneurs making a difference in their businesses and their communities and Literary Wonders! features authors, their written works, and their contributions to their communities.

Starting tomorrow, December 14^th through Christmas day, we will bring you the 12 Days of Christmas podcast. We will highlight a combination of literary geniuses and entrepreneurial giants. We will feature real estate moguls to published authors to chefs to IT/AV geeks.

In addition to these iTunes podcasts, you will be able to catch these feature pods on our websites at www.literarywonders.com, lwtheauthorshideaway.blogspot.com, thatliterarylady.com and all our social media profiles. You will be able to learn more about our guest, learn how to interact with them and find out how to get in touch with them.

I hand selected our guests personally because I feel that each one of them add value to the lives of others and they deserve to be recognized. I know each of these very important people, and in addition to their careers, they give back to their communities in a big way.

These special people yield from Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, New York, North Carolina and other places across the country.

So, from all of us at Literary Wonders! Media Group and Bryant Consulting, that Literary Lady would like to wish every single one of you a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanza, Feliz Navidad and a 4P Kind of New Year!

The 12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-13T01:17:00.004-05:00

REVIEW - Cooking the Books by Bonnie Calhoun

2011-10-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

Date: 8/10/11

Title: Cooking the Books

Author: Bonnie S. Calhoun

ISBN 13: 978-1-4267-3388-8

Pages: 320

Publisher: Abingdon Press

Cover: Electronic ARC

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 4 Stars

Cooking the Books is by debut author Bonnie S. Calhoun and is part of the Sloan Templeton Series. Sloan Templeton inherited Beckman’s Books and Brew from her late mother. Sloan can think of a hundred other things she would rather be doing, but she wants to honor her mother and keep the bookstore alive.

Sloan in a kind and caring soul and attempts to help those in need. This rings true when she finds young woman sleeping in her car and soon finds out the woman is a victim of abuse. Sloan befriends the woman but makes sure she keeps her distance. The last thing she needs in her life is drama. She is already dealing with a crazy, stalking ex, who can’t take no for an answer.

Sloan is on high alert when people become very interested in one particular book—so much that they are willing to kill for it.

At first, the book appeared to start of slow and I was a bit confused at the beginning of the book. I still never figured out what the prologue had to do with the rest of the book. Perhaps that will be revealed in a later installment.

When the book finally picked up, the action, and the laughs never stopped. Bonnie uses a cast of colorful and original characters that help make Cooking the Books and exciting read.

Kudos to Mrs. Calhoun for her first novel. I look forward to more of the Sloan Templeton Series and more from this author.

Reclaiming Lily Virtual Book Tour w/Patti Lacy

2011-10-18T00:36:00.004-04:00

Two Women. Two Cultures. A Troubled Teen

About the Book

A storm the size of Texas brews when Gloria Powell and Kai Chang meet in a Dallas hotel. They have come to discuss the future of Lily, the daughter Gloria adopted from China and the sister Kai hopes to reclaim. Kai is a doctor who had to give up her little sister during the Cultural Revolution and has since discovered that an inherited genetic defect may be waiting to fatally strike Lily.

Gloria's relationship with her daughter is tattered and strained, and the arrival of Kai, despite the woman's apparent good intentions, makes Gloria fearful. Gloria longs to restore her relationship with Lily, but in the wake of this potentially devastating diagnosis, is Kai an answer to prayer...or will her arrival force Gloria to sacrifice more than she ever imagined?

About the Author

Patti Lacy graduated from Baylor University in 1977 with a BS in education. She taught at Heartland Community College in Normal, Illinois, until she retired in 2006 to pursue writing full time. She and her husband, Alan, have two grown children. Visit Patti at http://www.pattilacy.com.

Video Trailers

Read Excerpt at http://www.scribd.com/doc/63098733/Reclaiming-Lily

VISIT THE FULL BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE AT http://bit.ly/ReclaimingLilyVirtualBookTour.

REVIEW - Content is Cash by Wendy Montes

2011-10-14T13:53:00.000-04:00

Date: 10/12/11

Title: Content is Cash

Author: Wendy Montes DE OCA, M.B.A.

ISBN 10: 0789741083

ISBN 13: 978-0789741080

Pages: 240

Publisher: Que

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 4 Stars

Content is Cash by Wendy Montes is a useful guide for anyone, but especially for freelancers. I started using some of the suggested rules in the book and an article that I had written months ago, that got no comments from my blog, website or social media, was noticed by an attorney, hundreds of miles away. It is important that content writers understand the importance of SEO strategies.

This book touches on items such as creating free newsletters, article writing, understanding search engine optimization and marketing. I found the glossary and index at the end of the book to be very useful.

REVIEW: Using Facebook by Joshi and Rutledge

2011-10-14T06:00:00.000-04:00

Date: 10/12/11

Title: Using Facebook

Author: Kent Joshi and Patrice-Anne Rutledge

ISBN 10: 0789745240

ISBN 13: 978-0789745248

Pages: 288

Publisher: Que

Cover: Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant – Literary Wonders!

Rating: 3 Stars

I gave Using Facebook by Kent Joshi and Patrice-Anne Rutledge a 3 star rating, not because it is a bad book, in fact is a good resource. However, this book basically has the same information as the last three or four books I purchased about Facebook. I would love to see one of these titles that give extensive resources and how-to’s on creating successful landing pages.

This book is more for the novice user, who is getting started with Facebook. Beginners will find the resources in this guide useful and valuable.

I do like that the book directs readers to video tutorials, resources on the internet and it comes with an interactive CD. I will say, this is one of the few books I’d refer to my clients when they want to get started using Facebook or do more than just post funny jokes and pictures of their children or animals.

I might add that I love Sarari’s resources. They always offer a free trial at the end of books such as these. I have several of their titles and find them useful.

REVIEW - The One Year Devotional by Patricia Raybon

2011-10-13T00:00:00.003-04:00

Date: 10/12/11

Title: The One Year God’s Great Blessings Devotional

Author: Patricia Raybon

ISBN 13: 978-1-4143-3871-2

Pages: N/A

Publisher: Tyndale House Publisher

Cover: Leatherbound/Paperback

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant– Literary Wonders!

Rating: 5 Stars

The One Year God’s Great Blessings Devotional a daily guide by Patricia Raybon is a great biblical and spiritual resource. The beautiful leather-bound devotional gives its readers 365 days of inspiration, bible studies, scripture and quotes to help anyone start their day strong.

On the 7^th day of each week there is a section titled “Going Deeper” that is accompanied by a scripture along with questions for its reader.

Each week has its own topic, such as loving, listening and enterprise and industry that starts with a promise from God and a prayer from the author.

As with any great resource, this devotional comes equipped with an impressive endnotes section and scripture index.

Going through this devotional, I have to say that I appreciate the time and patience it took for Ms. Raybon to create something so beautiful, so useful and so inspiring. Thank you Ms. Raybon. I recommend this book to anyone looking for that special gift for that special someone. The holidays are right around the corner.

REVIEW: Bound for Glory by T. Botts and P. Raybon

2011-10-13T00:00:00.001-04:00

Date: 10/12/11

Title: Bound for Glory: Celebrating the Gift of African American Spirituals Through Expressive Calligraphy

Author: Timothy R. Botts w/ reflections by Patricia Raybon

ISBN 13: 978-1-4143-5453-8

Pages: 128

Publisher: Tyndale House Publisher

Cover: Hardcover

Reviewer: Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant– Literary Wonders!

Rating: 4 Stars

Bound for Glory is an excellent “coffee table” book. It’s colorful pages and calligraphy draws readers in as they experience various poems based on spirituality and African Heritage.

From the infamous “Let My People Go” to “Come and Go With Me”, you’ll want to read every page of this beautiful poetry written by Timothy Botts and Patrica Raybon.

This conversation piece comes complete with a scripture index at the end. I recommend this book to anyone who loves poetry, anyone who is an African and Spiritual enthusiast, or anyone who wants to spark inspiring conversation.

Patricia Raybon Virtual Book Tour

2011-10-11T00:00:00.004-04:00

Are You Gloomy Today?

Hello, I’m Patricia Raybon, the author of the ONE YEAR God’s Great Blessings Devotional
Nehemiah 8:10 – The joy of the Lord is your strength!

If we choose JOY, God blesses us with His strength. Are you gloomy today? Troubled? Joy is still an option. What's blocking you from God's joy? Think about it.

Learn more about ONE YEAR God’s Great Blessings Devotional

Want half a blessing? Or God’s best? Award-winning author Patricia Raybon dares to pursue God’s greatest in her new One Year® devotional, God’s Great Blessings. Join her search for the enriching secrets of a bold Christian life, exploring 52 biblical values and virtues that God blesses not because we’re good but because He’s God. This path is uplifting, challenging, sometimes surprising but always transforming. Get on board with our Blessing God for the life-changing journey.

About the Author

Award-winning writer Patricia Raybon is author of two critically acclaimed books, “I Told the Mountain to Move” and “My First White Friend.” Her personal essays have appeared in the New York Times Magazine, Newsweek, USA Weekend, Charles Stanley Ministries’ In Touch Magazine and have also aired on National Public Radio. She writes full-time on life-changing faith. Visit Patricia’s Website at http://www.patriciaraybon.com.

Bound for Glory (Coming November 1, 2011)

This powerful gift book is inspired by a stunning collection of calligraphic paintings by world-renowned calligrapher Timothy R. Botts and featuring reflections in verse by award-winning author Patricia Raybon. The book’s 52 paintings are visual interpretations—in words and pictures—of African American spiritual songs. These amazing songs are an important part of our American heritage, and they continue to give us hope in the face of life’s many challenges. The book also includes 52 reflective readings from Botts and African-American writer Patricia Raybon. It also includes lyrics from the spirituals along with inspirational Scripture verses from the New Living Translation.

VISIT THE FULL BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE AT http://bit.ly/PatriciaRaybonVirtualBookTour.

Fight Back With Joy

By Patricia Raybon

She’s laughing. Even though her home is a wreck. She’s laughing. Even though her kitchen looks lousy. Paint colors all wrong. Fabric choices breaking her budget. When the wood cabinets finally arrive—several weeks late—both the size and grain completely miss the mark.

“But I’m laughing,” says the TV host of the home renovation show, giggling into the camera. “It’s how I deal with setbacks,” she explains. “I mean, you have to laugh. It gets me back on track.”

It’s a timely philosophy. Joy imparts strength. For believers, however, joy in the Lord activates His strength. In our lives. In our circumstances. In our kitchens. Both big and small.

Speaking to His disciples, Jesus put it this way: “Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart”—be of good cheer—“because I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) We love that promise, indeed.

But why would joy in Him—and not courage or bravery or boldness—deliver the strength of almighty God? Could it be the illogic of the principle? That the beauty of joy is so winsome and unexpected that it’s disarming?

No enemy expects a foe to fight back with joy.

Yet there’s something strangely powerful about joy. About laughing in the face of a storm. About sizing up your enemy but knowing that, compared to God, your enemy is powerless. About staring up at a mountain and accessing its peaks, crags and valleys, but knowing—as you laugh—the mountain can’t overcome God’s power. Is this rationalizing? Or denial? Or is it wisdom?

“I have told you this so you will be filled with my joy,” Jesus told His disciples in the upper room (John 15:11). “Yes, your joy will overflow!” Then as His joy flows, your enemies flee. Can you laugh at that? Try it today. Then don’t be surprised when your victory follows.

Award-winning author Patricia Raybon’s newest book is the One Year® daily devotional, God’s Great Blessings, which includes this reflection on joy. She is also author of two acclaimed memoirs, My First White Friend and I Told the Mountain to Move. She also collaborated with calligrapher Timothy Botts in his upcoming gift book honoring African American spirituals, Bound for Glory. Learn more at

Day 29: Introducing . . . Revelations

2011-09-30T00:00:00.001-04:00

Day 29: M. Ann Ricks releases The Blood Done Signed My Name

2011-09-28T22:59:00.000-04:00

About The Author

M. Ann is a Christian Fiction author originally from Elizabeth, New Jersey presently residing in Bear, Delaware with her awesome husband and two handsome sons. She is a graduate of Rider University.

M. Ann is forever grateful to her parents, Earnest and Anne Smith for their prayers and close reign over her young life. Their seemingly ever-present influence and strong desire for her to know God, attend church and participate in every possible youth auxiliary kept her from elements that could have swallowed her whole. Writing for M. Ann was always a hidden love. One would say that as her relationship with her Savior matured, her desire to write was blossomed. Stories that seemed to be buried in her heart to give God glory were unearthed. She then became convinced and confident that it was her gift. She is determined to tell the world how wonderfully awesome Jesus Christ is and can be in our lives if we just allow Him to be. She is honored to be used by God to spread His message with the stories she creates with the leading of the Holy Spirit, knowing that He will provide her with the words that will draw all men to Him. She realizes that her role as a writer is simply to exhale what God has already breathed into her.

She is also what one may consider a motivational/inspirational speaker but she prefers the term, “Godspirational” as one may only be truly inspired and changed when hearing the uncompromised word of God!

M. Ann is the author of Awesome Wonder: The Gift of Remembrance , The Son and THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME.

About the Book

Feelings of condemnation, guilt and shame, are some of the underlying reasons why some won’t accept Christ or even acknowledge the unending love He has for us. Because of the past, familial history or even consistently making choices that have proven to be wrong, many have decided to live a defeated life of regrets; resolving that they are worthless and unable to believe or even accept the possibility that anyone could really love them or give their life for their freedom and liberty. Set in present day, THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME chronicles a woman’s desire for redemption. It is a novel seasoned with the sensuality of love, the need for familial truth, supernatural deliverance and God’s promise of hope. This novel will enlighten and encourage as we journey with the heroine, Honey Lamb.

Are the sins of the father and mother visited upon their sons and daughters?

Undoubtedly damaged, Honey Lamb, like many, is a descendant of an unfortunate legacy of molestation, addiction, murder and bad decisions. For as long as she could remember, she believed the unhappiness she experienced was somehow bequeathed to her. The blood that surged through her veins seemed to be tainted and she often wondered about the DNA she possessed. Experiencing more than her share of misery at the hands of her mother, an alcoholic; the source of all her woes, Honey believed she’d overcome her seemingly checkered path all by herself when she met and married, Mason; a man she loves beyond her own understanding. Unfortunately, unsettling memories emerge to crack the veneer of her seemingly happy existence. Feeling unable to escape what she believed to be her destiny, Honey makes a decision that may have ruined her life. Not realizing God places people in our lives for His purpose, she reluctantly embarks upon a journey that will open her eyes and heart to a divine inheritance. Will she accept what God has already given to her or will she shun the invitation of salvation and allow her familial carnal legacy to continue to the next generation? Will she come to understand that Jesus’ blood redeemed us from a self-defeating existence because He became the sinful inheritance for us while at the same time eradicating it forever, giving us a spiritual blood transfusion that would change us all?

Day 28: Storyworld Conference and Expo

2011-09-28T16:01:00.008-04:00

To view this email as a web page, go here.

	STORYWORLD CONFERENCE+EXPO OCTOBER 31 - NOVEMBER 2, 2011
San Francisco
StoryWorld Conference + Expo • Hotel & Travel

CONTENTS

• Keynote Speaker Jordan Weisman Explores Storytelling's Tribal Roots and Rich Future

• Just a Few Days Left to Save $200!

• Sponsor Spotlight: Sparksheet

• Bonus: Build Your eBook Savvy at Publishers Launch Event

Keynote Speaker Jordan Weisman Explores Storytelling's Tribal Roots and Rich Future

StoryWorld

Conference + Expo begins with creative dynamo Jordan Weisman's high-energy keynote talk. In a sweeping historical survey, the creator of MechWarrior, Shadowrun and Crimson Skies and author of Cathy's Book will chronicle the ancient, collaborative

roots of storytelling.

He'll explore how the rise of technology amplifies storytelling, bringing with it the democratization of storytelling tools—and echoing the fireside storytelling of ancient civilizations.

He'll reveal

how smart transmedia strategy and audience awareness can increase story's impact exponentially, building community and pushing your profits into the stratosphere.

And he'll forecast the next exciting step in story's evolution—and how you

can be a part of it.

Jordan's inspiring and energizing keynote will set the tone for a creative, productive Conference dedicated to finding the next development in the story of story itself. Don't miss it.

REGISTER

NOW

»

Just a Few Days Left to Save $200!

Reserve your spot at StoryWorld Conference + Expo by September 30 and you'll save $200 off the full-Conference price. StoryWorld is the first global meetup of film, publishing, gaming,

and television professionals, indie producers and content creators, and marketers, all eager to explore the lucrative and potential-rich environment of transmedia storytelling. Click

here to see a list of the influential companies represented at this year's StoryWorld.

FIND OUT MORE

»

Sponsor Spotlight: Sparksheet

StoryWorld is pleased to welcome a new media sponsor, Sparksheet.

Sparksheet is an award-winning multiplatform magazine that explores how brands are using different platforms to get relevant content to the right

people—wherever they may be. Through original think pieces and in-depth Q&As with international thought leaders, Sparksheet highlights the unexpected connections between different parts of the media and marketing universe, from journalism and entertainment,

to advertising and technology. Powered by Spafax, a WPP content marketing agency, Sparksheet is committed to being an editorially independent think thank and industry publication where everyone from colleagues to competitors is welcome to join the conversation.

Bonus: Build Your eBook Savvy at Publishers Launch Event

eBooks for Everyone Else
Wednesday, November 2
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Presented by Publishers Launch

eBooks

for Everyone Else is designed to teach agents, small and medium-size publishers and authors how to make, distribute and market ebooks effectively—either on their own, or through appropriate vendors, distributors and other third-parties.

Although

this is not a StoryWorld event, it is located at the Parc 55 Hotel. For your convenience, you may opt to add this event onto your StoryWorld registration. Click

here for complete program information.

Hurry! Sign up by midnight Friday to save $200!

Reserve Your Hotel Room Now!

StoryWorld Conference + Expo will take place at Parc

55 Wyndham San Francisco – Union Square. StoryWorld has negotiated a discounted hotel rate for attendees, but this deal ends October 7 and prices will go up after that date. Book

your room now!.

Connect Before & After StoryWorld

@StoryWorldConf, #SWC11

Make plans with potential "tribe members" before Day 3's Unconference via StoryWorld's Facebook Page.

Day 27: A Poem by John Ashbery

2011-09-27T17:07:00.001-04:00

Instead of Losing


by John Ashbery

Anyone, growing up in a space you hadn't used yet would've done the same: bother the family's bickering to head straight into the channel. My, those times crackled near about us, from sickly melodrama instead of losing, and the odd confusion...confusion. I thought of it then, and in the mountains. During the day we perforated the eponymous city limits and then some. No one knew all about us but some knew plenty. It was time to leave that town for an empty drawer into which they sailed. Some of the eleven thousand virgins were getting queasy. I say, stop the ship! No can do. Here come the bald arbiters with their eyes on chains, just so, like glasses. Heck, it's only a muskrat that's seen better years, when things were medieval and gold... So you people in the front, leave. You see them. And you understand it all. It doesn't end, night's sorcery notwithstanding. Would you have preferred to be a grownup in earlier times than the child can contain or imagine? Or is right now the answer—you know, the radio we heard news on late at night, our checkered fortunes so pretty. Here's your ton of plumes, and your Red Seal Records. The whole embrace.

Day 21: 5 Reasons e-Books Might Be the New Paid-content For News

2011-09-21T10:30:00.003-04:00

For publishers, selling content on the Internet has been always more about religion than business. In a world where users are saturated with news stories, most of them submitted for free, selling articles looks like selling fruits in the Garden of Eden. The news business is not like the music business. You can buy a song, and you can put it on your iPod and listen to it again and again. News stories are ephemeral. They’re just stuff you need to know. And in the connected world, you don’t need to buy it to hear about it. When a story is released, information is curated all over the social network.

It’s trendy to say that “the important part of newspaper isn’t ‘paper,’ but ‘news.’” But when you start to think about it, you realize that before the rise of the Internet, what you paid for when you bought a newspaper was not the news, but the paper, or to be more precise, the news on the paper. I mean you pay for the packaging: curated and exclusive stories packaged in a well-organized, easy-to-read, offline browser, delivered to your home. That’s why some magazines still sell a lot of copies of their paper editions even if major stories have been released on the website earlier. In 2008, in France the news magazine L’Express published an interview with First Lady Carla Bruni. The interview was released first on the web, for free, and it was a huge success. But it was a huge success for the paid paper edition too; a record in the magazine’s history. Same story, different packaging.

Read entire article here . . .

Day 20: Borders Employees Vent Frustrations in ‘Ode to a Bookstore Death’

2011-09-20T09:24:00.003-04:00

As Borders closed forever this weekend, one patron snapped a photograph of a bitter bookseller’s manifesto an unidentified store: “Things We Never Told You: Ode to a Bookstore Death.”

The massive list collected years worth of pent-up sarcasm and frustration, spawning thousands of angry (and bemused) reactions from bookstore patrons.

Below, we’ve collected five controversial statements from the list. What do you think about the list? (Via Matt Staggs)

1. “We hate when a book becomes popular simply because it was turned into a movie.”

2. “Nicholas Sparks is not a good writer…if you like him, fine, but facts are facts.”

3. “We greatly dislike the phrase ‘quick question.’ It’s never true. And everyone seems to have one.”

Read more here.

Day 19: Publishing Innovation Awards

2011-09-19T15:49:00.002-04:00

"A well-crafted ebook is essential both from the reader's perspective, as well as the publishers'—a reader will respond to a well-crafted, beautifully designed ebook. They will feel like they got their money's worth when they interact with a professional-quality product. A quality ebook is going to be increasingly crucial as a component of a publisher's brand going forward."
—Pablo Defendini, Interactive Producer, Open Road Integrated Media

The Publishing Innovation Awards honor the most innovative ebooks, enhanced ebooks, and book apps in 14 categories. It is the mission of the PIAs to highlight excellent publishers/authors, encourage new thinking, and improve the reading experience in the digital age.

Deadline: November 1, 2011

Winning Entries Receive:· Recognition in front of your peers at Digital Book World 2012 in New York
· A showcase of your product at Digital Book World 2012
· A multipoint marketing campaign (last year's included features in the LA Times,Publishers Lunch,Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and more)
· The QED (Quality, Excellence, Design) seal for your book—the equivalent of a "Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval™" for an ebook

ENTER NOW >>
The Publishing Innovation Awards celebrate publishers, designers and authors who are improving the reading experience in the digital age. If your ebook, enhanced ebook or book app presents solid design that keeps readability front and center or introduces interactive or social elements that improve the reading experience, we want to see it.

Even if you don't win, your ebook will be evaluated for a QED seal. You'll receive valuable feedback, and if your ebook passes our 13-point design review, you'll get a QED seal to help attract readers who value clear, usable design.

More about the QED Seal
The QED Seal, new to this year's Publishing Innovation Awards, signals to an ebook reader that the title will render well in whatever their preferred reading format and that they can buy with confidence. It is an emblem that publishers, authors, and content creators can affix to their ebook cover and metadata that assures readers they can read that title where they want, how they want.
Your entry in the Publishing Innovation Awards includes a professional 13-point design review that evaluates readability across multiple formats. Regardless of whether you win the PIA awards, you'll receive valuable feedback on your ebook or app's usability and, if your product passes the inspection, you'll receive the QED Seal to help you communicate your digital offering's high standards to potential readers. Click here to find out more about the QED Seal judging process.

ENTER THE PUBLISHING INNOVATION AWARDS NOW

Day 16: Effect vs Affect

2011-09-16T11:08:00.001-04:00

What Is the Difference Between Affect and Effect?

Before we get to the memory trick though, I want to explain the difference between the two words.

It's actually pretty straightforward. The majority of the time you use affect with an a as a verb and effect with an e as a noun.

When Should You Use Affect?

Affect with an a means "to influence," as in, "The arrows affected Ardvark," or "The rain affected Amy's hairdo." Affect can also mean, roughly, "to act in a way that you don't feel," as in, "She affected an air of superiority."

When Should You Use Effect?

Effect with an e has a lot of subtle meanings as a noun, but to me the meaning "a result" seems to be at the core of all the definitions. For example, you can say, "The effect was eye-popping," or "The sound effects were amazing," or "The rain had no effect on Amy's hairdo."

Day 15: QR Codes - A Marketing Must!

2011-09-15T10:15:00.001-04:00

With your eyes open, I’d like for you to take a small journey with me. The economy is tanking and you have a family of six to feed. Food prices have reached an all time high and you need to find ways to cut costs. In a valiant effort, you buy a Sunday newspaper and browse through the pages of coupons. You see some things that you buy on a regular basis and realize those thirty-five cents here and a dollar, fifty there could actually help lower the bottom line of your grocery bill. You take your pile of coupons to the grocery store and at the checkout stand and your eyes light up when you scan your coupon’s barcode across the scanner. The bar code on that coupon has information imbedded into it that tells the scanner how much to take off your purchase.

Day 14: 2nd Annual Fall Fiction Fest

2011-09-13T00:00:00.003-04:00

2ND ANNUAL FALL FICTION FEST

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH 2010 FROM 1PM-4PM

ELK'S LODGE

5555 W GOOD HOPE ROAD

MILWAUKEE, WI 53223

FREE ADMISSION - ALL AGES!

HEADLINERS:

New York Times Best-Selling Author Kimberla Lawson Roby
National Best-Selling Author Marissa Monteilh

OTHER FEATURED AUTHORS:

NAACP Award Nominee J.L. Woodson
Sheila Peele-Miller
Patricia Balentine
Winkk
Lesa Jones
Thomas Slater
Jhamika
Karyn Grice

Click here to register.

Day 13: You Fill My Eyes a Poem by Rick Bonner

2011-09-13T00:00:00.002-04:00

You fill my eyes with the splendour of your beauty,

Let me hold and protect you from the storms.

Come dance upon Mars beneath shooting stars

And let the purity of my love keep you warm.

You lift my heart with warm anticipation,

Take my hand let me whisk you away.

See the colours so bright that light up our nights,

As we kiss by New-Hope bay.

I could not have believed that I would find someone,

That could make me feel like you.

Your eyes met mine, in a frozen time,

And my fairy tale came true.

You fill my eyes with unreserved surrender,

I would scour mountains for the briefest kiss.

In a world where we strive, we could learn to thrive,

Lord I have never yielded like this.

You thrill my dreams of new tomorrows,

Discard your cares and become part of my life.

Do not deliberate too long, take a risk and be strong

And forever fill my eyes.

I have spent staring through a window,

Like a stage-hand locked in a play.

But you smiled across the room, lit up by the moon,

And my cold nights turned into day.

You fill my eyes with complicit adoration,

I would do anything to see you smile.

My heart skips a beat, you make me complete

Now I have crossed these dark rivers of denial.

Day 12: Summer’s Over, How Did Bookstores Do?

2011-09-11T23:31:00.001-04:00

Clearly, 2011 will not be considered a stellar year for a wide swath of bookselling: Borders is in the midst of closing its remaining stores; Books-A-Million has had two disappointing quarters, and Barnes & Noble’s growth is coming primarily from e-books and the Nook, while print, as everywhere, declines. Newer independents have had trouble gaining traction, like five-year-old Red Fox Books in Glen Falls, N.Y., which closed last month. Some older indies have also ran into trouble. Thirty-six-year-old Atlantic Books, headquartered in Conshohocken, Pa., closed eight of its 12 stores, mostly in high-rent resort communities. It will continue to operate four year-round bookstores: one in South Jersey, two in Delaware, and one in suburban Philadelphia. “The major problem is there’s not enough margin to run these small chains anymore and pay the overhead,” said Atlantic co-owner Mark Simon.

Read full article here.

Day 9: Call for Volunteers: Boston Book Festival

2011-09-09T00:00:00.000-04:00

Call for Volunteers

BBF PRESENTING PARTNER:

THANKS TO:

Other Press

Plymouth Rock Foundation

Copley Square Hotel

Bank of America

Target

Vermont College of Fine Arts

for their support of Boston Book Festival 2011.

Stay in touch:

Follow @bostonbookfest on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook!

Calling all readers and writers, story-tellers, poets, students, playwrights, performers, bookworms, intellectuals, library-goers, bookstore-browsers, open-mic enthusiasts, and lovers of literature of all kinds!

On Saturday, October 15, the Boston Book Festival is bringing over 100 world-renowned authors and presenters, as well as costume characters, performers, craftspeople, and vendors, to Copley Square for a full-day celebration of the importance, as well as the pure joy, of the written word in its many forms.

You definitely want to be there. Even better, you could be part of the team that brings it all together!

The Boston Book Festival depends on the volunteer efforts of dedicated and enthusiastic literary advocates, such as yourself, to help everything run smoothly. Volunteers do things like answer questions, help festival-goers find their next session, facilitate events and book-signings, and work at the merchandise booth. A volunteer shift is four hours long, and the rest of the day you are free to enjoy the festival!

Prior to volunteering, you will attend one of the scheduled two-hour training sessions that will take place at different times in the two weeks leading up to the event. While volunteering for a great event like this is surely its own reward, your involvement will also earn you a delicious lunch and a cool Boston Book Festival volunteer T-shirt.

Please pass this information along to anyone you know who might be interested in volunteering. All are welcome, and the more the merrier! This year's festival is going to be bigger and better than ever, so don't miss the opportunity to be part of the team!

RSVP to Nina Rogowsky, at nina@bostonbookfest.org or just reply to this email.

Many thanks for your support of the BBF!

Best,

Day 8: Pound Seven Presents . . .

2011-09-08T00:00:00.003-04:00

For more information, visit Pound7.com.

Day 7: Amazon Tablet Headlines

2011-09-07T12:59:00.001-04:00

5Reasons the New Amazon Kindle Tablet is a Very Real Threat to the Apple iPad

The rumors are true. Amazon is working on a tabletcomputer—currently called the Kindle Tablet—that will be released later this year. After months ofspeculation, Tech Crunch got anup-close-and-personal look at the Android-powered device that Amazon hascreated with the goal of competing with the Apple iPad 2, the BlackBerry PlayBook, and a host of other tablet computers in mind.

Readmore here.

4 Details Amazon MustNail With New Kindle Tablet to Make Apple Sweat (A Little)

The Kindle tablet iscoming. (You may have heard a little about this.)Amazon's just redesigned its main website with changes that make it moretablet-friendly, and one writer is even claiming to haveused the device. It's believed to cost "hundreds" less than the iPaddoes, and this alone has excited the tech world with the idea that it could bethe first big rival to Apple's machine. But if it is to grab a market share,Amazon absolutely has to get other things right.

Readmore here.

Amazon Tablet Set to Battle iPad in Fall

All indicators point to Amazon readying a tablet for thisyear. And according to a report by the Wall Street Journal today, the onlineretail giant will introduce its first color offering "beforeOctober," according to unnamed sources.

Readmore here.

Amazon’s $249 Tablet Could Shake Up theTV Business

Amazon.com(NAS:AMZN)may soon begin marketing a $249 tablet computer -- a product that couldthreaten Apple's(NAS:AAPL)iPad and provide a jolt for pay TV distributors looking to distributemultiplatform to subscribers.

Readmore here.

Amazon’s Kindle Tablet is Very Real

It’s called simply the “Amazon Kindle”. But it’s not like anyKindle you’ve seen before. It displays content in full color. It has a 7-inchcapacitive touch screen. And it runs Android.

Day 6: Profile on Kimberla Lawson Roby

2011-09-06T14:47:00.000-04:00

New York Times Bestselling author Kimberla Lawson Roby released her 16^th novel nationwidetoday. Secret Obsessions is abouttwo sisters, Paige and Camille. After being tired of their sibling rivalry andcoming in second place to her sister Camille, Paige plots to get what shedeserves, including her sister’s husband. Paige’s jealous tirade pushes herfamily to the brink as secrets are revealed.

Kimberla is the author of such novels as Casting the First Stone,A Deep Dark Secret and The Best Kept Secret. Mrs. Roby has been has received numerousawards, including #1 BlackboardBest-selling Book for Paperback Fiction in 1997 and a 2006, 2007, 2009 and2010 Author of the Year Award fromThe African American Literary Awards Show in New York. This bestselling,well-known author resides in Illinois with her husband and is currentlyplotting her next bestselling novel.

To learn more about Kimberla and where she’ll be signingcopies of her newly anticipated novel SecretObsessions, visit her website at kimroby.comor visit her Facebook fan page at http://www.facebook.com/KimberlaLawsonRobyor on Twitter at @kimberlaLRoby. Secret Obsessions can be purchasedanywhere books are sold.