Adrienne Thompson

It is FOR and ABOUT authors. Here we shine the light on authors who we've read, reviewed, and recommend to others. In this edition we are shining our light on another gifted author.

Married at sixteen, a mother twice by seventeen, and thrice a mother and divorced by twenty-four, Adrienne Thompson is no stranger to adversity. Not your typical teenage mother, she went on to complete her college degree and to earn her nursing license. She attributes God's faithfulness as the catalyst for her success in life. Now, having raised two children as a single mother, with a third fast approaching adulthood, she is sharing a long hidden talent and passion with the world. Using the lessons that life has so expertly taught her as a guideline (betrayal, abusive relationships, self-esteem issues, witnessing the deteriorating effects of drug abuse), she has created stories with multicultural characters that will both entertain and inspire the reader. Stories from the soul… for the soul.

Adrienne considers herself a literary maverick with a unique writing style, and her greatest desire is for reading her books to be a unique experience for everyone. She is not interested in emulating any other authors. She aspires to set trends, not follow them. For her, writing is an art that she strives to remain true to.

With twelve published novels under her belt, this indie author and publisher is blazing a trail to success. Her brand of edgy inspirational realistic fiction and romance has been termed easy-to-read and extremely addictive. One of her favorite phrases is “Betcha can’t read just one!”

Thompson was nominated for the 2012 All Things Literary Award for Best Female Author. She was also nominated for the 2013 Facebook Urban Literary Award for Best Romance Author. In addition, she was nominated by the BRAB (Building Relationships Around Books) Online Book club for Women’s Fiction Author of the year for 2013. Her title, Been So Long, is listed as one of AALBC.com's 20 bestselling eBooks of 2012. Her title, See Me, was chosen as one of UBAWA’s top 25 books of 2012. Your Love Is King was listed as one of UBAWA’s top 100 books of 2013.

Adrienne currently resides in Arkansas with her daughter. Formerly an RN, she now writes and publishes her stories full time. She is also a motivational speaker. 

What’s next for Adrienne? Adrienne is currently working on several projects including follow-ups to her novels Your Love Is King and See Me, a short devotional, a YA novel, a detective series, and a fantasy novel (remember, she’s a literary maverick). She is planning to release four books next year and maybe even a surprise release for later this year. To keep up with her, be sure to sign up for her newsletter at: http://eepurl.com/jnDmH and be sure to check out her Amazon author page: http://amazon.com/author/adriennethompson 

GETTING TO KNOW ADRIENNE...

What was the last film that really moved/disturbed/thrilled you and why? The Great Gatsby (the old one with, Robert Redford). Why? Because it is a beautifully tragic love story, and Robert Redford is marvelous as Mr. Gatsby. Gotta love Robert Redford!

You have the opportunity to date any music-celebrity of your choice. Who would it be and why? I would resurrect Marvin Gaye and date the heck out of him! Love that man’s voice and his swag. He had lots of swag and massive sex appeal!

Receipts – keep them or throw them away? I’m sort of a paper hoarder, but I’m an organized paper hoarder. I have totes full of receipts, so yeah, I keep them.

If I could go back and talk to the 18-year-old me, I’d tell myself: You are much cooler than you realize. You really are. Don’t settle!

From my children I have learned...That I’m not that bad of a person. I’d have to be pretty good to raise awesome people like them!

If you could not make any changes but could relive one day in your life over again, what day would you choose? The day I met my ex. We had a horrible marriage, but we made some incredible human beings together.

You see a quarter on the sidewalk.  Do you pick it up? Uh… yeah! I’m a starving artist, remember? Shoot, I’d pick up a penny, lol.

What televisions series would people be surprised that you watch? Hmm, Storage Wars, maybe?

What color is your car?  White. I’ve actually owned 3 white cars, so I guess I like white.

What one thing would an ex say he missed most about you? My heart. When I love, I love unconditionally. Sometimes that can be a good things, other times it can be not so good.

This or That...

Rain or Snow? Rain!

Hot or Cold? Cold

Night or Day? Night

On or Off? On

Pen or Pencil? Pen—with a fine point, no ball point!

PRAISE FOR BEEN SO LONG

“BEEN SO LONG.....This book was soo good!!! I could not put it down and could not wait until my next break at work to read some more!” Monique

“I found this story quite compelling…Been So Long was a wonderful story to read.” – Sandra Hall

PRAISE FOR YOUR LOVE IS KING

“I could never do this story justice in a short review. If you've ever read an Adrienne Thompson, then you know that this is not just another love story. She puts her heart and soul into each book. But if you have never experienced her brand of writing, I highly recommend this book to start. But don't stop with this one, they all will enhance your perspective on love.” – Karen Rodgers

“Real characters and a good plot makes this story a great read.” – Denise Bolds

PRAISE FOR SEE ME

“This was such a compelling story. The characters and storyline were believable but still mind blowing. It was a good reminder just how serious mental illness is and how we honor people in all their glory but never ever really know their story. This book was my introduction to Ms. Thompson's work but I can't wait to read her other books. What a passionate writer. Don't sleep on this book - it's a must read.” – DebiG

“WOW, when I started reading this book, I couldn't stop!!!! From the first page, you had me wondering what was going to happen next! I can't wait to read your next book!!!!” – Alicia P

PRAISE FOR BLUESDAY

“I highly recommend this book to anyone that wants to read a book that has a believable storyline and characters. Side Note: As a music fan of all genres, I love how the author titled each chapter after a famous blues song.” – OOSA

“Thompson delivered a very realistic story of a woman who has buried secrets deep within her heart. She had to find strength to understand her childhood and the reasons she made the decision and mistakes in her life. The story was very haunting but it held my interest until the very end.” - APOOO BookClub

Learn more about her at http://adriennethompsonwrites.webs.com or connect with her on the following social media platforms:

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AdrienneThompsonWrites

Twitter: https://twitter.com/A_H_Thompson

Instagram: http://instagram.com/ahthompsn

Tumblr: http://authoradriennethompson.tumblr.com/

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/ahthompsn/ 

Keith Thomas Walker

It is FOR and ABOUT authors. Here we shine the light on authors who we've read, reviewed, and recommend to others. In this edition we are shining our light on another gifted author.




Keith Thomas Walker is the author of more than a dozen novels, including Life After, Fixin’ Tyrone, Dripping Chocolate and The Realest Ever.  He enjoys reading, poetry and music of all genres.  Originally from Fort Worth, he is a graduate of Texas Wesleyan University.  Keith has won numerous “Best Author” and “Best Male Author” awards from a variety of book clubs.

GETTING TO KNOW KEITH…

What was your favorite food as a child?  Nachos.

My first kiss was:  at a school dance.  I was so in love with that girl!

What is your favorite outdoor activity?  Swimming.

My biggest celebrity crush is: Sanaa Lathan.

What was the first thing you bought with your own money?  I'm sure it was a big, fat cheeseburger, but I don't remember.

The funniest fan mail/tweet I’ve gotten said: "OMG, is *** really ***???"  It was funny to me, but they were really shocked, thinking I killed a main character.

If you could play any sport professionally, which would you choose?  Mixed martial arts.

Do you have a nickname?  Kdub (in certain circles), KT and KTW.

What one word describes you best?  Efficient.

What trait do you most admire in women?  Smarts.

What’s next for Keith? Brick House 2, coming in January. Korah Stewart and Brock “Brick” Avery are still reveling in their sizzling, whirlwind romance.  With the prized contract secured, Brick is willing to share the spoils.  But love may be an obstacle for the competing contractors.  Meanwhile Devin and Yolanda struggle to see eye to eye, and Texas Builders is dealt a devastating blow.  Korah fights to keep her family and her company together, and Brick must decide if commitment was ever on his agenda.

PRAISE FOR LIFE AFTER


"Once again Keith T Walker has written a book that is so realistic; I always love how he makes his characters real and normal. Great Job." - Demetris Mosley

"Wonderful story of love, lies, and second chances. As with his other novels, I couldn't put this book down until the end." - T. Williams



PRAISE FOR FIXIN’ TYRONE


"This story FIXIN' TYRONE proves with love, and someone to believe in you people can and will make changes. Mr. Walker's debut novel teaches, you to take charge of your life and not let the ugly keep you down. This story was a delight to read." - The RAWSISTAZ (tm) Reviewers

"OMG! Mr. Walker had me at page two! 'Fixin Tyrone' has it all and the chorography of this story is so well done - I don't know if Mr. Walker is a pipe layer but he is a PAGE LAYER for sure! I love Mia - an independent single mother, the characters around both Mia and Tyrone are a perfect mix! The love scenes are toe curling, blistering heat - you CANNOT read this book out in public (I tried). Oh yes, a MAN can write a romance story! GET THIS BOOK! "Fixin Tyrone" is the perfect book club read as the diverse topics within this story will have women talking and hopefully `fixin' for a long time! Hurry up and write the second book Mr. Walker!" - Denise Bolds



PRAISE FOR THE REALEST EVER


"Simply loved this book... It was truly the realest ever, It was good to see people arent millionaires to get a story regular people needs love too.. that is what I enjoy about Keith Books...A Must read one again Mr walker has done it again.. great job loved it..Keep the good work up..." - Sharon Blount

"I could not put this book down. It was refreshing and a delight...Bravo, Keith Thomas Walker. This was a nice book." - OOSA


For more information about Keith, please visit:

Website:  www.keithwalkerbooks.com

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Vanna B

It is FOR and ABOUT authors. Here we shine the light on authors who we've read, reviewed, and recommend to others. In this edition we are shining our light on another gifted author.

Vanna B. is an author and publisher of fiction novels. The Hope Street Publishing CEO is a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and received her BA in journalism from Temple University. Writing has been a life-long passion of hers and she always planned on authoring books.

Vanna's professional writing career began with newspapers and magazines, where she served as a restaurant reviewer, proofreader, advice columnist and staff writer covering a range of topics including current events, local politics and culture. After making the decision to leave the workforce to stay home to raise her son, she began penning her first novel, “Fancy.” “Fancy” went on to be a huge success, landing on the Amazon Kindle best-sellers list for multiple categories, earning Vanna the 2012 Philly Hip Hop award for ‘Best Author,’ being featured in The Source Magazine, and receiving overwhelmingly positively reviews. This year “Fancy 2” and “Knock-off Nina” also made the Kindle best-sellers list, and Vanna was nominated for two AAMBC Awards as well as two Urban Literary Awards.

Her current titles include: “Fancy,” “Fancy 2,” “Knock-off Nina,” “The Succubus: Sins of the Flesh,” and “Waist Training 101: A Guide to Using Corsets to Slim Your Waistline.”

What’s next for Vanna? I am currently working on a collaboration with my husband, Cal Akbar, entitled “The City of Brotherly Blood.” And on July 31st my company, Hope Street Publishing, is releasing “The Hustle: A Means to an End” by Donisha Derice and Jai Darlene.

GETTING TO KNOW VANNA B…

What is your favorite home cooked meal? Curry chicken! My husband makes it the best. I could eat it every day.

I think my best feature is my smile, dimples and all, and I play it up by showcasing it every chance I get. No matter what is going on, there is always something to be happy about. Plus, a smile is much more attractive than a frown.

What do you usually do when you meet someone for the first time? Listen. I usually do more listening and observing than speaking. I like to take it all in and get a good read on them.

The best advice I ever got on love was: That it often requires work but true love should never be given up on. So true!

Which one fashion accessory do you like more than others? A nice stiletto heel—the higher the better. High heels just make me feel so sexy.

My biggest turn-on is: Intelligence. There is nothing sexier than an intellectual man…a man I can learn from and become better from…one I can just fall into, listening to him speak and enjoying his conversation.

Do you prefer pens or pencils? Pens. Pencils always remind me of elementary school.

The thing I am most proud of: My writing/publishing career. I’m proud of myself for taking a leap of faith to pursue my dreams and the continuous growth I’m experiencing while doing what I love.

What is the weirdest thing that has ever happened to you? Having someone steal a photo of me and put their face on my body. I was like, “What the hell?” Because the last time I checked, I was neither blonde nor Asian. It was so bizarre. People do some crazy manipulations with Photoshop.

The one clothing item I can’t live without is: A good steel boned corset to keep my waistline sleek and curvy. It’s become sort of an addiction and since I sell them I often find myself dipping into my supply! Lol.

PRAISE FOR VANNA B

"The author did an excellent job the first go around with the potential to only climb in her career." - Readers With Attitude Book Club

"Everything and everyone are not what they appear...Fancy experiences a series of dramas that inspires great change for her life." -Vanessa Irvin Morris, StreetLiterature.com

“Loved both books, well written & I didnt get bored while reading, I will definitely be reading more from Vanna B.” – Alisha

“Knock Off Nina is such a good read. I loved that the storyline was very different but still official in it's own way. This novel is filled with drama with a capital D and leaves you in suspense more than you'd like. It's a true page turner and the end with leave you with your jaw dropped. All I can say is go get this book. Great job Vanna B.” – Jenise Brown

“I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I must say Vanna B did her thing with this book right here! The suspense and build up kept me from putting the book down! It was very well written and very entertaining! The characters were very strong and held their own! There was not one boring part of this book! I enjoyed it from start to finish and would highly recommend this book to other readers! Kudos for Vanna B for putting out an excellent product for her readers! They will definitely be talking about this one for some time to come!” – Faye Wilkes

For more information on Vanna B, please visit:

Where to find her books online:

www.HopeStreetPublishing.com

www.WaistTraining101.com

www.amazon.com/Vanna-B./e/B007ZTEP5U

Social networks:

www.facebook.com/authorvannab

www.facebook.com/vannabonline

www.twitter.com/msvannab

www.instagram.com/vannab215

Clever Black

It is FOR and ABOUT authors. Here we shine the light on authors who we've read, reviewed, and recommend to others. In this edition we are shining our light on another gifted author.



Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Clever Black and his immediate family left New Orleans on August 28, 2005 to escape hurricane Katrina and they’ve never returned to the city except for the occasional visit. He now calls Charlotte, North Carolina home.

Clever Black Books, LLC was formed in 2011. Its goal is to deliver a thought-proving read to all who are interested in this epic family saga that exposes and expresses many of life’s experiences—the American experience. The Holland Family Saga is America at its best and its worst. It is a sweeping and epic family saga filled with drama, violence, deep-dialogue and deadly alliances. And that’s just scraping surface.

In less than two years, Clever has released seven full-length novels under his own publishing company. In February of 2014, he signed with Write House Publishing and released his eight novel, titled Outlaw Chics, and now has a total of nine novels, with two more novels slated for release in 2014, The Holland Family Saga Part Eight: Definition of a Boss, and Outlaw Chics part two coming in the fall/winter.

Clever has a bi-monthly column in Urban Grapevine Magazine, a digital magazine that caters to Urban Fiction, People, Polliticking and Publishing. Writing is his passion. Telling stories is a skill he works hard at every day in order to perfect and refine his craft as he evolves on the literary stage.

GETTING TO KNOW CLEVER BLACK...

What is the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten? BBQ goat.

If you could bring one character to life from your favorite book, not including your own, who would it be? Noah from the Bible. Would love to know what the world was like before the flood.

What is one of your favorite quotes? Many men indulge themselves into a way of life that ultimately forces them to become slaves to the very world they seek to conquer. (My own)

If you could throw any kind of party, what would it be like and what would it be for? I'd throw a party similar to the movie The Hangover and strictly for fun.

What did you want to be when you grew up? One of the things I am today: a truck driver.

What 3 songs would be included on the soundtrack to your life? A Change Gonna Come by Sam Cooke. Foe the Love of Money by Bone. The Formula by D.O.C.

What was the first thing you bought with your own money? Kool Moe Dee's song Go See the Doctor.

Where’s Waldo? In a crowded train station behind the pillar on the left.

If you were immortal for a day, what would you do? Travel to another galaxy.

What sound do you love? Kids' laughter, peace and quiet, and cheering at sporting events.

PRAISE FOR CLEVER BLACK

“I am always skeptical of books that claim to be about New Orleans. I am a New Orleans native & current resident & usually the books that claim to be about the N.O. really don't have a clue. Not this one. It was so real! From the neighborhoods to the way the characters talked and interacted! I really enjoyed this book. It caught my attention & keep me eagerly anticipating every page! This book had me rooting for the crew to make it. It broke my heart, made me happy, made me sad, & made me angry all at the same time. You won't be disappointed with this one! I absolutely can't wait for part 2!” - Richelle Lloyd

“Clever Black outdid himself with this book. It's definitely a page Turner! Glad to know the saga continues because this series is awesome!” - T. Edwards

“Clever Black books keeps raising the bar. He takes readers into his books so they aren't reading but living in his story. It's not my usual type of book but he has me hooked.” - Mary Ann Wade

“I have read all of the Holland Family books I waited till I finished this one before I reviewed them. Please read these books you won't be sorry, I felt like I was part of the family at times because I could relate to them. I hope this isn't the last one I want them to go on forever!” - Patsy L. Davis

Pamela Samuels Young

It is FOR and ABOUT authors. Here we shine the light on authors who we've read, reviewed, and recommend to others. In this edition we are shining our light on another gifted author.

Pamela Samuels Young is a practicing attorney and bestselling author of six legal thrillers:Every Reasonable Doubt, In Firm Pursuit, Murder on the Down Low, Attorney-Client Privilege, Buying Time and Anybody’s Daughter. A natural hair enthusiast, Pamela is also the author of Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide (April 2014). In addition to moonlighting as a mystery writer, Pamela works full time as Managing Counsel for Labor and Employment Law for Toyota in Southern California. She formerly served on the board of directors of the Los Angeles Chapter of Mystery Writers of America and is a diehard member of Sisters in Crime-L.A. The former journalist is a graduate of USC, Northwestern University and UC Berkeley’s School of Law.

GETTING TO KNOW PAMELA…

The best love advice I ever received was: The best love advice I ever received came from Tyler Perry and it pertained to loving and pursuing your passion. I’ve never met Tyler Perry, but when he accepted the Chairman’s Award at the NAACP Image Award ceremony in 2010 and said the following words, I felt like he was speaking directly to me: “We don’t have to wait for somebody to green light our projects. We can create our own intersections.” I was watching the program from my bedroom and I swear the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. His statement encouraged me to embrace being an independent author. I began to think of being self-published as a plus, rather than a minus. I love the control I have over my writing career and wouldn’t have it any other way. The fact that I’m now an NAACP Image Award nominee alongside four long-time writers at major publishing houses truly validates all the hard work I’ve put into my writing career.

Which is your favorite season? Winter. I love wearing sweaters and boots.  But you’ll have to take into account that I live in Los Angeles. Fifty degrees is considered cold here. LOL! Winter probably would not be my favorite season if I lived in the Midwest or on the East Coast, especially with the crazy cold they’ve been experiencing lately.

My shopping addiction is: Natural hair products! I love being natural. If I walk into a beauty supply store looking for one product, there’s a good chance I’m walking out with five. I’m definitely a product junkie.

Do you doodle? Yep. I always doodle hearts. I wonder what that’s all about. LOL!

What is the most listened to CD in your collection? Stand by Donnie McClurkin. It gets me through everything! Writing rejection, heartache, stressful days at the office. I love that song! Especially these lyrics:

Tell me, what do you give when you've given your all

And it seems like you can't make it through?

Well you just stand when there's nothing left to do

You just stand, watch the Lord see you through

Amen!

If someone was to give you one gift, money is no object, what would you want to receive? The opportunity to spend a month in a fabulous house with an ocean view, eating great food, reading great books, watching great movies, working out and relaxing!

Is your favorite time the past, present or the future? The future! So many great things are happening regarding my writing career. I will be leaving my job to write full time in a few months. Hallelujah!

If you could spend the rest of your life doing just one thing, what would it be and why? Writing legal thrillers!

What is the one thing that makes you laugh the hardest? The Real Husbands of Hollywood. OMG! That show, especially Kevin Hart, is hilarious! I want him to be Apache if--no when--Anybody's Daughter hits the big screen.

What is your favorite home cooked meal? Gumbo!

What’s Next? My first non-fiction book, Kinky Coily: A Natural Hair Resource Guide. There’s been an explosion of interest in natural hair among African-American women. After my own hair disaster, I decided to take charge of my hair care instead of relying solely on a hair stylist. I was amazed at all the things I learned about my hair, primarily from YouTube bloggers who are half my age. I wanted to share the knowledge I learned about natural hair care with other women and that’s exactly what Kinky Coily does.

I’m also working on another non-fiction book, Self-Publish the Right Way: Turning Your Passion into a Paycheck. That’s scheduled for release in December 2015.

My next mystery is titled Married into Murder. It’s the story of a young African-American woman whose marriage into an East Indian family results in tragedy. Part sociological study, part courtroom drama, the novel examines the deep-seated cultural and racial prejudices that led to her murder. It goes on sale in June 2015.

PRAISE FOR EVERY REASONABLE DOUBT

“EVERY REASONABLE DOUBT is an insightful and engrossing legal mystery with great dialogue, authentic characters, unexpected twists, and laugh-out-loud humor. It was great to finally see a legal thriller/mystery with an African-American female lead -- a story with characters who have real problems and work toward resolving them realistically. . . I loved it!” - The RAWSISTAZ™Reviewers

“Ms. Samuels-Young is an extremely talented author and I look forward to being captivated by her next book and those that will certainly follow.” - Black Butterfly Review

PRAISE FOR IN FIRM PURSUIT

“The adventure began on the first few pages and never let you go until the end. This was a well written novel, character development was excellent Mrs. Samuels Young did an outstanding job, I can't wait to read the other mystery books in the Vernetta Henderson series.” - Julie Byrd

"This book has just the right amount of twists and turns! I really connected with the main characters, Vernetta and Special. I would definitely recommend it!” - KBH

PRAISE FOR MURDER ON THE DOWN LOW

“This is one book that will have you guessing until the very end. Pamela Samuels Young has done it again.” - LADIES OF COLOR TURNING PAGES Book Club

“This book was absolutely amazing it was a definite page turner from beginning to end!! Reading this book has definitely made me think about my own decisions and actions within my own sex life. Although this book is a work of fiction somewhere there is someone who is being betrayed by their lover or who is doing the betraying.” - LaToya Jones

PRAISE FOR ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGE

“I have read all of the Vernetta Henderson books and I can't wait until the next one. Please write one real soon. All of Ms. Young's characters are real and jump off the page. You can feel everything they're feeling. Ms. Young writes so smoothly that her words just flow with ease. I couldn't put this book down. I love you Pamela Samuels Young. You're fantastic!!” - Cathi J. Lance

“Ms. Samuels-Young is an attorney and it shows in her legal knowledge, but the knowledge is oh so entertaining. I recommend this book to those who love legal thrillers and to all readers who enjoy wonderful. well crafted stories!” - Angelia Vernon Menchan

PRAISE FOR BUYING TIME

“With one deft move, and a fantastic book, Pamela Samuels Young has snuck onto my favorite authors list. Impossible, you say? Pick up a copy of Buying Time and then I defy you to not be thrilled by this roller coaster ride of law, greed and murder.” - Lori Johnston

“Pamela has done it again with another great legal thriller. Pamela's books tend to be lengthy (about 400 pages), but the length does not detract from the fast-moving action in her novels. I've read every one of her books and would highly recommend all four.” - Gwenevere Richardson

PRAISE FOR ANYBODY’S DAUGHTER

“Wow, this story was so real! Everyone is engaging in social networking during the Internet age and we hear more and more about people getting duped. Anybody’s Daughter is a well written story about this very subject. As parents we try to protect our children from the unknown, but they find crafty ways to deceive us.” - EbonyReader4Life

“Powerful, compelling and real!!!! This is a must read for parents, grandparents raising children, foster parents, educators and I could go on. Human trafficking is in LIVE and LIVING in color. Unfortunately, the invisible children are sought out by predators and are held capture.” - Cynthia J Hebron

For more information about Pamela, please visit:

Website:  www.pamelasamuelsyoung.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pamelasamuelsyoung 

Twitter: www.twitter.com/pamsamuelsyoung

Instagram: www.instagram.com/pamelasamuelsyoung

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/kinkycoily

YouTube: www.youtube.com/kinkycoilypamela

Shewanda Pugh

It is FOR and ABOUT authors. Here we shine the light on authors who we've read, reviewed, and recommend to others. In this edition we are shining our light on another gifted author...




Shewanda Pugh burst on the literary scene with her debut novel, Crimson Footprints, in 2012. Since then, she's been featured in newspapers, radio shows, and television networks throughout the U.S. Shortlisted for the National Black Book Festival's Best New Author Award, the AAMBC Reader's Choice Award, and the prestigious Rone Award for Contemporary Fiction, she's best known for brazen, out-the-box romances that delve deep into contrary worlds. Pugh whips up wit, charm, humor and a dose of heartache, for a sophisticated recipe all her own. Crimson Footprints,Crimson Footprints II: New Beginnings, and Crimson Footprints III: The Finale are available in stores and online.



GETTING TO KNOW SHEWANDA…


Besides the obvious suspects, Facebook and Twitter, what is your FAVORITE app to use and why? The Kindle App on my laptop is a prized possession. Once, on a trip to the ER, my Kindle wound up cracked. Instead of replacing it, I waited for the HDX to debut. It was the Kindle app.


My shopping addiction is: You probably don't have to ask do you? Books, of course. My husband jokes that I get them on the black market and buy them in bulk.


Which would your feet most likely be caught in: stilettos, sneakers or slip-ons? I'm in Miami! Slip-ons!


My first kiss was…Uneventful. lol


What is your favorite dessert? Cheesecake. Yum.


Do you have a favorite TV show? If so, what would you tell others to get them to tune in? Downton Abbey. The suspense in that show is so underhanded. You're the last one to realize you've pressed your forehead to the television.


What is your favorite electronic device? Kindle!


Do you doodle? Nope.


The best love advice I’ve ever received was: The best love is self-love; all else will come into place.


What is the wallpaper on your computer or laptop? I'm not sure exactly. I update from National Geographic regularly (I love maps). This one's a nighttime pic of a beach in China where the sand glows.





PRAISE FOR CRIMSON FOOTPRINTS


"Pugh doesn't use the obvious differences to give lip service to the can't we all just get along cliché. Instead Pugh demonstrates a sophisticated prose that allows the reader to delve deeply into two socioeconomic worlds. Thankfully, with this debut novel, Pugh has entered the field of romance fiction with her unique footprint to chart her own path." -USA TODAY

"Crimson Footprints is about understanding and looking beyond ones comfort zone for love. This was a romantic love story with twists and turns that will have readers anticipating if Deena and Takumi will stay together...I was impressed with the storyline and intrigued by Deena's sister, Lizzie's character and wanted to know more about her. I pray that there is a part two that will tell Lizzie's story. I recommend Crimson Footprints to others." -  APOOO BookClub

"With remarkable skill, Shewanda Pugh paints a picture of a bi-racial woman from a disadvantaged background who is smart and ambitious enough to succeed at life, despite her family's efforts to bring her right back down. It's bold and tragic and sweet and encouraging. The author's writing skills can't be faulted. She created a world that was vivid and real and then invites the reader in. Even with my very busy life, I managed to read this book in just a couple of days, and even now I think about it... If you'd like a book full of angst and love, family drama and family redemption, from an author who has amazing skills with the written word, I recommend you give this book a try. I bet you won't regret it." - LAS Romance Reviews


PRAISE FOR CRIMSON FOOTPRINTS II: NEW BEGINNINGS



“This sequel proved to be better than the first…This book had more drama, suspense and was very entertaining from start to finish. The characters were well-developed and the author gives readers a more in depth look into the Hammond and Tanaka families. I cannot wait to read the finale in this series. I recommend this book to others.” - A&RBC Reviews


“You never know what to expect in life... and in books it appears. In Crimson Footprints II: New Beginnings, author Shewanda Pugh illustrates this very well…This is a strong story, a great follow-up to Part 1. I still favor Part 1; that first paragraph hooked me so in that book! Having finished Part 2, I'm left wondering what treats Pugh will bring to readers in her next work.” – ChickLitGurrl


"Shewanda Pugh has written another phenomenal story. I like the excellent quality provided by the author, which demonstrates a strong commitment to satisfy all readers. It's difficult to read a good book and have that followed up with a good sequel. Job well done!” - OOSA






PRAISE FOR CRIMSON FOOTPRINTS III: THE FINALE




“Ms. Pugh is an excellent writer who writes with a lyrical style that is poetic. She immediately draws the reader into the story and builds up to a climatic ending.” - Leona


“There were just so many layers to this story. I experienced many emotions as I read the story. I didn't want it to end. I know it was The Finale, but I wouldn't mind seeing some other stories branch off from it. Great job Shewanda Pugh!” – Courtney


“Loved this series.” – D. Lloyd



For more information about Shewanda, please visit:



Blog: ShewandaPugh.Blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Author.ShewandaPugh?ref=hl

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShewandaP

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4906321.Shewanda_Pugh?from_search=true

N’Tyse

 It is FOR and ABOUT authors.  Here we shine the light on authors who we’ve read, reviewed and recommend to others.  In this edition we are shining our light on another gifted author…

N’Tyse is the erotic romance author of several best-selling novels. She is also executive producer and director of the upcoming documentary film Beneath My Skin which was filmed in her hometown Dallas, Texas. While N’Tyse spells out exotic seduction, the true significance behind her name takes on an entire new meaning. The acronym translates to NeverTell Your Secrets ―a message she envelops within her stimulating taboo tales.  

The author’s passion for writing dates back to a very young age where she found poetry, music, and creative writing as an outlet of escape. In 2007 N’Tyse ambitiously penned and self-published her freshmen and sophomore novels, My Secrets Your Lies and Stud Princess Notorious Vendettas. Determined to see her works reach national and international audiences and markets, she pitched her third project to a traditional publisher. Twisted Seduction quickly landed N’Tyse a publishing deal with Strebor/Simon & Schuster.  

  

A private banker and financial counselor for over 12 years, N'Tyse currently juggles her writing career as a fulltime mom, wife, and filmmaker, while also pursuing her bachelor’s degree in creative/screenwriting and business entertainment. Her literary contributions have been featured in magazines and several bestselling anthologies. N’Tyse currently resides in Dallas, Texas, where she is hard at work on her next novel and film project.

GETTING TO KNOW N’TYSE…

If you were granted three wishes, what would you ask for? Heal the world of sickness, $500 million, and a faster burning metabolism. LOL!

Do you have any unusual collections? Socks.

If you have to choose a movie for your life story, what would that be? It hasn’t been written.

One TV show I just won’t miss is: Honey Boo Boo.       

Can you swim? No

What is the one food that you would never give up? Cornbread

*Social media* is the greatest invention in my lifetime. Social media.

Would you rather take the picture or be in the picture? Take the picture.  

If I could invade someone’s closet, it would be: Tamar Braxton.

What’s the biggest misunderstanding about you? That I’m quiet.

This or That...

Rain or Snow? Snow

Hot or Cold? Cold

Night or Day? Day

On or Off? On

Pen or Pencil? Pen

PRAISE FOR TWISTED SEDUCTION

"A fascinating novel of secrets and seduction....N'Tyse cleverly delivers all that her name stands for: Never Tell Your Secrets." ― Zane

     

“I just love the way this woman writes. Her descriptions can be seen in your mind, and felt every-where else. The twists and turns didn't stop nor did they disappoint. The climax of this novel was totally unexpected, and I loved it. I will continue to be a fan and supporter of this amazingly talented woman!” ―Ms. Poetic

    

“N’Tyse spells it out for readers in this shocking story that will keep you turning pages until the very explosive end.” ―Missy, Readers Paradise Book Club

   

For more information about N’Tyse, please visit:

www.ntyse.com

www.facebook.com/ntysefans

www.facebook.com/author.ntyse  

www.twitter.com/ntyse

ntyse.amillionthoughts@yahoo.com 

Synopses

Twisted Seduction (Part 1)

An erotic, drama-laced journey into the lives of two best friends who will stop at nothing to have the man of their dreams—even when the cost of betrayal has a price tag neither of them are quite ready to pay.  

  

Twisted Vows of Seduction (Part 2) Releases DEC. 10, 2013

“Some secrets aren’t meant to be kept.” In this scandalously provocative soap-drama series, deceit, seduction, and a tempestuous affair intertwines the lives of lascivious lovers who will go above and beyond to keep their sexual trysts a secret, but the curse of temptation will lead to revelations that may result in their own demise.

     

Books may be purchased wherever books are sold: Barnes and Nobles, Books A Million, Amazon, etc. and downloadable on all e-readers.

Bibliography

My Secrets Your Lies

Stud Princess, Notorious Vendettas

Twisted Seduction

Twisted Vows of Seduction