Category Archives: Author Interviews

May 13 2013

MORE: Discovering The God of More When Life Gives You Less

morecoverA couple of months ago, I received an advanced copy of More written by Pastor Benny Perez.  I actually began reading the book on a flight back from Atlanta, GA.  As soon as I began reading, I knew that there was a message just for me within the pages and chapters of this book.  Pastor Benny Perez takes you through some of the very storms that he and his family had experienced.  I received a copy of More in order to conduct an interview with Pastor Perez.  At one point, I thought the interview would never happen.  However, when it finally did, I was blessed beyond measure.  In 45 minutes, Pastor Perez spoke a message to me that brought every word within the book to life.  We were able to discuss More, ministry and having faith in the midst of the storm.

One of my first questions was, “What would you tell someone that may be in the midst of a storm?”  His answer was short and simple, “Turn to God, quit trying and start trusting God”.  He went on to say, “It wasn’t easy but I made a decision every day”.  These very words resonated with me.  As easy as it seems to do, I think a lot of times when we are in the midst of the storm we often have a hard time heeding to these instructions.  Throughout our interview Pastor Benny Perez often discussed taking things one day at a time.  Believing that each day, God had given him the grace to face the day and weather the storm.

“Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.  sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” Matthew 6:34.   Pastor Perez recalls praying and asking God “Lord am I done?” while he and his wife were dealing with the loss of their unborn child, the death of his father-in-law and the near bankruptcy of his church during the economic downturn.  He stated “I got my answer”.  Pastor Perez continued preaching this very message of hope and trusting God in the midst of the storm.  While preaching at church, a Pastor stated, “This needs to be a book”.

Pastor Benny and Wendy spent a year working on bringing the pages of More together.  About a 1/4 into writing the book, Pastor  Perez stated it was getting hard.  But he said his wife kept pushing it forward and it was worth ever bit of it.  He was trusting God that through his writing that people would be encouraged and filled with hope.  It has done just that.  For the complete interview, pick up a copy of The Answer Newspaper if you are in the Las Vegas, NV area.

About The Author:

Benny Perez, senior pastor of The Church of South Las Vegas, believes when life devastates us we need to keep hope in God and choose to relyBenny Perez on His promises to transform our lives for the better.  In his book, More: Discovering the God of More When Life Gives You Less (Authentic Publishers), Perez reflects on the heartbreak he and his wife faced in 2010, three days before Easter, when, during a routine sonogram, they witnessed their unborn child die in the womb. A day later, after a follow-up procedure, Perez’s wife, Wendy, collapsed in his arms as a pool of blood engulfed her. Perez cried out to God, pleading for Him to spare her life. That weekend Benny would have to find the courage and faith to preach ten Easter messages to thousands of people.  More is Perez’s journey through a broken period which also included the death of his father-in-law and the near bankruptcy of his church during the economic downturn.  Perez uses the biblical story of Paul’s shipwreck on the island of Malta (Acts 28-29) to show people how to kindle a fire for God even when all we can find, like Paul, is “wet wood on a stormy day.”

What do you do when it feels like life is giving you less but you are trusting God for more?

Get your copy of MORE today on Amazon.

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Jan 18 2013

I’m Not Garbage – Rein Johnson, A Life Transformed

I'm Not Garbage

I’m Not Garbage

I was honored to have the opportunity to interview Rein Johnson, the author of “I’m Not Garbage”.  Her message of transformation is very powerful.  I can relate on so many levels as to the healing process that takes place once we take a pen to paper.  I hope this interview blesses you as much as it blessed me and make sure to click on the link to see the book trailer.

1.  What inspired you to write your book, “I Am Not Garbage”?

Writing “I Am Not Garbage” was a charge from God. Initially it wasn’t something that I really wanted to do. I had toyed with the idea and even began some early drafts of it but never really moved on it in the way that God wanted me to. I had received a prophetic word that I would come off of my job to write the book, but I didn’t mentally and internally receive that. I’m a single mother raising three children with bills to pay like everyone else. I assumed that if I were going to come off my job to write anything God was going to set me up financially to do so either through independent miraculous wealth or maybe even marriage. Not so!

God had been dealing with me about leaving my job. I resisted significantly even though it was stressful and meant much neglect of my family and personal life because the money was good, the benefits were good, and I could provide the life I had always wanted to for my children (or pretty close to it). Little by little God began to do things with my employment to get my attention. The job became more stressful. We went through a major employee overhaul and restructuring, which was my job to oversee, we shifted the benefits plans which resulted in my having to pay out over 1/3 of my paycheck to cover me and my children medically in addition to the expensive monthly commute I was already paying to drive two hours one way. I still decided I’d leave my job on my terms or when I secured new employment.
To make a long story short (because this is discussed in the book also), God initiated a real transformation process for me. It was an extremely painful time, and nothing gets the message to the brain like pain! I walked into work one day after already going through some other major change with God, and they told me that they had no need of me and paid me almost triple my salary to leave. I laughed; I knew it was God. I accepted my severance and drove home. God stripped everything that would’ve taken any attention away from this assignment including my house (because I only would’ve continued to worry about bills and maintaining my home unemployed, and I would’ve definitely needed to find a new job). I ended up moving back in with my mother who had a loft off the side of her large home, and that’s when I decided to obey and put pen to paper.
It wasn’t that I had a problem sharing my testimony. I had already been doing so at many conferences and events, but writing it was a challenging thing to do for so many reasons. See, preaching my story allowed me to only go as far as “I” wanted to and expose as much as “I” was comfortable with. When it was over, I could go home and forget, and thank God for everyone He delivered during the service and be done. Writing is very permanent. It required that I go back into the depths of places that I genuinely wanted to forget. Writing meant exposing myself and my family in a very real way; a way I wasn’t quite ready for, so I resisted. But when I yielded, I became so much more inspired to get this book out, because God was giving me transformation, and I understood instantly that He wanted to get that message of transformation out to others. It was a lot to write and a hefty book, but I watched God heal me completely as I wrote right up through giving me powerful revelation on what transformation in God is really about!
2.  Was there ever a moment that you doubted or just wanted to stop writing?

As stated earlier, I definitely had my doubts. Whenever we have to heal from anything, we essentially have to “kill” it and bury it if I may use that metaphor. When something in us dies, we grieve it– all five stages. I definitely went through the grieving process as I recalled each horrifying story and very explicitly shared my testimony. It was hard at times, but I typed through tears, prayed through, and took breaks, but I couldn’t stop.

I became more engrossed in the healing and transformation taking place in me that the pain was worth reliving just to expose and expel it. God helped me to understand things that I never understood before about my life and launched this ministry of transformation. When you are chosen to share healing with the world, the process of writing isn’t as easy as it seems. We live these words. We wrap ourselves up in them. We sleep with them. We bury them. We know they will be on display for an entire planet to read. It’s a heavy weight to bear. There were definitely times I felt that weight. Stopping though, never crossed my mind. If I thought about anything, it was mostly about my family having to read and endure my truth as I revealed more about molestation and family abuse, but I knew I was commissioned and I was more inclined to just obey once I accepted that God really wanted me to do this.

3.  Did you discus your book with your family prior to writing?  Was there any concerns?  Were there any unhealed or unmended issues that needed to still be dealt with?

I had already launched into transformation ministry well before I wrote the book. It was probably more uncomfortable for my mother and my youngest sister who supported my preaching engagements, but there were no riffs. It’s funny how God works. We didn’t actually heal through the book. God began to deal with us as a family unit spiritually while I wrote. Things happened simultaneously. Conversations that had never taken place before suddenly happened as we prayed together, God used me to really minister to my family after telling me that I was going to be the example of the transformation that would take place for us all individually. It was all so quick and divine.

God didn’t give me the liberty of talking to my family about the book and about what it would include. I believe that was divine also. Sometimes, when you’re on assignment you just have to write and let God deal with the rest. God definitely handled it that way for me. I couldn’t afford to be shifted in my conviction to write by fear, the fear of others, or opinions. I knew that I couldn’t stop to worry about what family would think. I knew that I had to write the details and the explicit truth. I had to trust that by the time of the book release, God would cover my family. Because no one other than two editors and the publisher have actually read the book, I believe among my family there’s still a little anxiety about what I said and what people might think, but it will subside once they have it in hand.
It was definitely hard to write about my youngest siblings’ father and the things I suffered because of him, especially since I am very close to them and they are developing a relationship with him. It was definitely hard to write about my mother’s mother and have her face the harsh reality of secrets never unveiled before now. I definitely stressed a little about how my truth would impact them all on occasion, but again, I had to trust God. I had to obey!
We’ve had some very in depth conversations in the time frame of my writing and releasing this book, and I can truly say that we have healed so much as a family unit, but there is still more healing for us to come. I believe this book will initiate more of that process. It’s been an amazing and powerful experience.
4.  In your excerpt, you discuss sexual abuse and how you blamed yourself at one point.  How were you able to heal and move past the abuse?

Healing and moving past the abuse had everything to do with God and this writing process. I have also had some therapy, but in my writing, God began to open my eyes to so much as I relived my stories. I literally walked into worship through the pain and the tears as I wrote and God, like a school teacher, began to speak to me about the conditions of others, how my truth was my own in a nine year old reality, about forgiveness, and about guilt and so much more. It was absolutely powerful. I remember spending hours at my prayer bench in that little loft just weeping and listening, then running back to the computer to write. Many heal before they write. I had some closure prior to writing, but I really healed and transformed during the process. It was God’s strategy. By faith, I let it go.

I won’t get into a long theological debate here about worship and what it’s true purpose is, but I learned something significant about worship through the writing process. Most often when we are encouraged to worship God, we tend to press heavier into our praise. We reach a depth in our tongue (heavenly language) and feel like we have accomplished something because we felt a spiritual high. But The Lord said to me, “They that worship me must do so in spirit and in truth.” He said, “My people have spirit. They know how to shout (holy dance) on command and cry on cue. They know how to speak in tongues and fall out at a touch, but they are completely missing the truth. To worship Me is to obey Me. When you come to worship before Me, you are essentially asking Me to show you where you need to apply Me. Anything you are struggling with is where you have not applied Me. You cannot come into my presence and not be changed because in worship I expose, I explain, I expel, and then I expedite. Therein is the truth of worship and real transformation.” That blew my mind!
In my worship, that’s exactly what God was doing! God exposed the pain, explained many things related to it, expelled it from my emotional and spiritual systems, then expedited my healing and the blessings attached. Writing this book wasn’t just writing, it was worship, and in my worship was my healing!!! I pray somebody takes that and runs with it!
5.  What would say to a young girl or woman who is or has dealt with abuse to encourage them to seek healing?

There are few words. So often, I thought about what I wished others had said to me, but even then, there really were no words. I would suggest that I have had similar experience and that I know first hand how abuse eats you up inside. I know how it creates sexual issues, trust issues, and other abuse issues when the pain is left unchecked. Living with that is a curse we were never meant to carry, and to that young woman and old woman alike, I would say that there is a God who cares a great deal about them, and wants them to care for themselves enough to be whole.

I’d tell them that there is life beyond the pain, that they are valuable, and that they deserve to live memory free! Transformation is absolutely real when we are willing to look at our lives, have a conversation with our lives, and return every ungodly thing to its sender. It’s not ours to own. We were never meant to carry such burdens. God is a divine healer to the core! I tell my story because I want others to know the same transformation I know. It’s possible! Abuse does not have to be our identity.

Watch the trailer and listen to a one of the songs to be released with I’m Not Garbage here.

6.  Describe the transformation process that took place while writing your book.  How instrumental has writing your book been in that process?
 I won’t share too  much here because it’s very detailed in the book along with transformation revelation, and some of this I’ve already addressed, but I will say that I didn’t choose it. I was content to pretend that all was well. I wanted to see others healed, but with myself I only wanted to go so far. I was called; however, at 7 to preach the gospel- a child prodigy indeed. When The Lord whispered, “Trust Me” in 2011, I had no idea I was in for some of the greatest testing, trials, challenges, and pain of my life. I didn’t want to relive these things to such depth, but The Lord said, “I have need of you!”
7.  You are also a singer and songwriter.  How would you compare or contrast the process of getting your heart down on paper in music versus writing a book?

It’s funny, I recall a song I wrote in my early twenties when I needed to express some of the pain and the lyrics were:

“I’ve got a secret, between me and you, can’t tell nobody else. Somebody’s touching me, abusing me, and using me, and O it’s hurting me, and it’s confusing me…”
I was already telling my story to some degree just in a different way. I believe the best music is written from experience. The process isn’t that different for me. When I write, it can be in many formats because I have the gift of writing. I convey the message in verse, song, book format, poetry, or plays. It’s all the same to me. It’s like fire. I have to release the words or they will choke me.  I have to let them out however they come.
8.  Can you talk a little about the music that will be released with the book.
I worked on some music a little while ago and could never understand why I had such a hard time releasing a CD. There were always obstacles! Now I know why. God needed to birth this book. When I wrote those songs they just came to me. I opened my mouth and started singing with no music. I ended up recording 5 of them. As I wrote the book, I could hear those songs with each chapter. God told me to take the music and make it interactive. It’s something you have to experience, but it makes complete sense now. It’s literally the soundtrack EP to the book. “Conversation Peace.” The book is a conversation about transformation and peace. I had no idea when recording that those songs would be used this way. It was truly divine!
9.  Do you see yourself writing another book in the future?
Absolutely! A volume 2 to “I Am Not Garbage” because there’s more to tell, and many other spin off books. There will be a forth coming workbook to “I Am Not Garbage” in late Feb or early March. I really want the reader to embrace transformation and this workbook is in depth! Get ready! There is much more to come from me!
10 Any last words?

I am so thankful that God chose me as a vessel to write. I know that this book is going to bless so many lives and help them put voice to their pain, but more than that, it will transform lives. Every tear I shed in writing and everything I had to endure was more than worth it. Your investment in this book will change you for a life time if you are really ready to walk into a brand new you!

The book is Christian based, but many of the principles of transformation apply regardless of where one finds him or herself. The book will be released 1.29.13 and will sell at www.rein-soul.com and at Amazon.com. The e-book versions for iBooks, Google Books, and Kindle will be released mid February. God bless you for taking the time to listen to my voice. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2)!
You can also book me for conferences, book signings, tours, speaking engagements, revivals, etc. by contacting HeReinz Ministries at HeReinz@Me.com. www.rein-soul.com God bless you!!!
You can watch the trailer for “I’m Not Garbage” and hear some of the music that will soon be released here.
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Dec 6 2012

Scarred: Surviving The Wounds

Domestic violence awareness can not be limited to only one month out of the year. It is important that we bring awareness to this growing epidemic 365 days a year, 7 days a week and 24 hours a day. With the recent incident that occurred between the Kansas City Chiefs football player, Jovan Belcher and his girlfriend, we need more people like Niyia Whitsett to share their story and also strive to bring awareness.

Scarred, a memoir by Niyia Whitsett

Scarred, a novel by Niyia Whitsett

1. Who or What inspired you to write ‘Scarred’?

Unbearable pain on top of pain inspired me to write the things that I felt were clouding my vision, crowding my mind and hurting my heart. I did not want to snap or give in to chronic depression so I begin to write with some encouragement of close friends. I had the title about 2 years before, I began to write.

2. Describe the writing process.
The writing process for me was bittersweet as I reflected on mainly the painful memories of my life. I would have days in which I was able to get many pages done and the writing was legible and other days the writing was big and ugly or even smeared from the tears falling as I wrote. I would go to bed crying and I could actually feel pain in my chest where my heart is. Sometimes I would wake up in the middle of the night nervous. I can truly say I didn’t think I would finish because it got really hard to re-visit some of my past, but I knew it would be vital for completing it the way God intended it to be told.
3. Did you ever want to just say forget it?
Yes…I would put the pen down for months at a time it took me two years.
4. How has domestic violence impacted your life?
Domestic Violence hindered my self-esteem because it hindered my views of healthy communication in relationships. It forces you to take control, over compensate, mistrust and be defensive even when it isn’t needed first before getting familiar with your surroundings. You begin to expect things to be hard before they’re easy and it is hard to receive love. I witnessed Domestic Violence and it conditioned me without me even knowing so it was certain things that I allowed and took not knowing that Domestic Violence would soon follow.
5. Were you able to reach out to family or friends for support?
No, I was fearful of what they would say or do. I didn’t want to involve them in what I felt was a bad decision.
6. What was your breaking point?
My breaking point was when I began to lose everything I had because I simply had no energy to take responsibility for anything. I didn’t care about what was important anymore and would spend my money or pleasing myself or others temporarily.
7. What message do you want your readers to walk away with?
If I can make it against all odds you can too, If I can avoid turning to drugs, alcohol, suicide, murder etc., so can you…Scars happen and they hurt, but there is a healing process and the pain does cease leaving you with life lessons. We must pass on the healing and not the Hurt.
8. Do you see yourself writing another book in the future?
I do see myself writing another book soon, this book was just a peak into the many aspects of my life. I shared many scars but there is much more than just that I have learned some great things along the way. God has truly endowed my with wisdom and I am grateful for how he has kept me to share just how great He has been to me.
9. What’s next for Uniquely Niyia, LLC?
I am going forth with “HIS STYLE” & the “Speak Out Now” Campaign. HIS style is a posture that will impact, empower and influence how you see the world, yourself and others. It is the Style mission and series of key techniques that will improve your life forever and the campaign is dedicated to positioning posters in strategic places throughout our city to provide effective support and prevention for victims of Domestic Violence.
10. Where can we find you on the web?

Author Niyia Whitsett

Author Niyia Whitsett

www.uniquelyniyia.com and you can get your copy of Scarred at Amazon.com
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Dec 4 2012

Author Interview: The Blood Done Signed My Name

The Blood Done Signed My Name

The Blood Done Signed My Name

The Blood Done Signed My Name: M. Ann RICKS

  • What genre would you say your books fall into? My novels are Christian Fiction.
  • Who or what inspires your writing? I am inspired by God as a result of my Savior Jesus Christ! The Holy Spirit gives me the premise for my stories and downloads the sentiment and the words so that I may do what we as followers of Jesus were anointed to do: Share the gospel of Jesus Christ. By doing this through the words He gives me, He will heal the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to those who are in bondage, give sight to the blind, free those who are oppressed and proclaim Jesus Christ is Lord.
  • How did your upbringing impact your beliefs and relationship with God? My upbringing was, church, school and home-life. Most of my activities, aside for participating in school activities, (plays and performances) were church related. I am very fortunate that I have the best parents a girl could have! My parents kept me in church and that is where I thrived and as a result, I am forever grateful to them! My relationship with God however became stronger in my adult life.
  • Was there ever a period in your life that you went against or strayed away from what you had been taught? I think we have all backslidden, (myself included) and that’s why I love my Savior so much! He is always willing to welcome you back into the family with open arms! Reminding us to “go and sin no more!” His word tells us that we shouldn’t sin but…“And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” 1 John 2:1 His word also tells us, “ If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” 1 John 1:9
  • If so, what led you back to Christ? His LOVE, The truth of His Word! ….Not what man said but what He said! He allowed me to confront why I had not immersed myself in Him and what I need to do to be free… I mean really free! Glory to God!
  • Who is your favorite character in The Blood Done Signed My Name? I haven’t a favorite character but if I simply love the way God used me to write Ms. Sadie! She has the quiet strength and firm but patient love that I find necessary in today’s world to help those who have lost their way.
  • Describe the process you go through for developing your characters. Crazily enough, I haven’t a special process. All three of my novel’s premises were given to me during my quiet time with God. Rhachelle, I want to be used by Him and because I make that my priority, I become open to the leading of the Holy Spirit. As I am writing, He will give me names as I use the gift of writing to share their story. He allows me to simply write. He instructs me throughout the process, downloading what He knows someone will need to read to experience His love and as a result they are blessed! I am truly being used as a vessel for His handiwork!
  • What message do you hope to convey to your readers through you’re THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME? The message that I would love for all to receive from THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME is that regardless of who you are, what your family lineage looks like, whatever you’ve done, whatever has been done to you, the blood of Jesus can make you a new creature because of its power. God loves us so much and because He loves us, He sacrificed His only son Jesus. Jesus became the sacrifice for us and all that we have done and are going to do. We have been absolved and even justified. We can walk in freedom and liberty because of what Jesus did. A new life is available for those who believe!
  • As a full-time writer was there ever a time that your faith was tested? How did you refocus and keep moving forward? There were struggles along the way…. Yes indeed! There were delays, rewrites, rejections and faith fights! At times I was my worst enemy! There were many days I was so discouraged, I wanted to simply give up. I’m so thankful Rhachelle, that God is faithful even we forget what He’s promised. “God is not a man, that He should lie, ….Has He said, and will He not do? … has He spoken, and will He not make it good?” Numbers 23:19
  • Do you have any upcoming projects? It is my hope to assist other Christian writers with my literary workshop for aspiring Christian writers called, “Conversations…. Writing to Reconcile”. I had the wonderful opportunity to share it regionally but would love to be afforded a venue that could allow me to do so nationally. As believers in Christ it is our mandate to reconcile others to God. Using our literary gifts is certainly one way we can accomplish that awesome task. Additionally, for all who are interested, I distribute electronically, (on-line), a monthly newsletter, M. Ann’s Literary Communiqué and prayerfully it will continue to increase in circulation. Lastly, I’ve begun my 4th novel, The SHIFT!
  • Any final words for the readers? I so appreciate the readers taking the time to read this interview! I feel incredibly BLESSED!
    M. Ann Ricks

    M. Ann Ricks

    Thanks to you all! I invite the readers to visit my website and www.mannricks.net to simply read more about me! If interested they may find my novels on all online literary establishments. (i.e.: www.amazon.com / www.bn.com). For speaking engagement, Literary Dialogues and book club gatherings, please feel free to contact me directly using: Godsauthor@mannricks.net. I have an Author’s Page on Facebook: M. Ricks Literary Creations.

Rhachelle, thanks so much for this wonderful interview! Continued blessings to you! Let God continue to be GLORIFIED!

Oct 9 2012

Hurt No More: No Longer A Victim

Domestic violence is an epidemic that is sweeping the nation.  I am grateful to those who have taken a stand to increase the awareness and advocate for those who are suffering in silence.   I am so happy to have had the opportunity to interview Author Deborah J. Sheppard-Monroe.  She is not only an advocate but also a survivor of Domestic Violence.  In this interview, she discusses her relationship that almost cost her life, her organization and how you can also get involved in your community.

Who or what inspired you to write Hurt No More?
HURT NO MORE was inspired by my personal experience with domestic violence.

How did domestic violence affect your life?
I am a survivor of domestic violence. I was in an abusive relationship for 3 years. The abuse ranged from physical, emotional/mental, financial and sexual abuse. I would be called names such as stupid, ugly, pathetic, fat, b***h etc. I supported him financially and if I decided that I did not want to give him money, he would make me feel as though I was the most horrible person in the world. The manipulation was so strong. The physical abuse would be a mixture of being punched, slapped, choked, having my head bashed into the wall etc. Sometimes, while trying to defend myself we would end up fighting like cats and dogs. The most frightening experience was when he held a loaded Smith & Wesson gun to my head.

What was the response from family and friends like when you published your book?
There was mixture of responses. All of my friends were very supportive and encouraged me to get the word out but I only had a few family members (like 2 or 3) who actually supported my book.

How did you build up the strength and courage to leave your relationship?
One day I just decided that enough was enough. I could not take it anymore. I had lost my identity, put on over 50lbs, I feared for my life constantly and it became just too much. I could not cheat my future husband and children out of a wife and mother.

How do you stay involved in your community as a domestic violence survivor and advocate?
I founded an organization called VICTIMIZE ME NO MORE and I use this organization as my platform for advocacy. We do programs with schools, churches, other non-profits and community organizations to spread the message of HOPE and to ENCOURAGE everyone to help fight this epidemic.

What would you say to someone who has or currently is experiencing domestic violence within their relationship?
Wow. This is a really good question. I would say to them: I know what it is like to want to leave but feel like you can’t. I know what it is like to want to change your mate but nothing seems to work. I know what it is like to love and hate at the same time. I know what it is like to lose yourself and family/friends all at the same time. I know what it is like to cry and feel like nobody hears me. I KNOW!!! Never feel like you are alone and never feel like this is your fault because it is not. You are a beautiful individual who deserves happiness, who deserves to laugh, live and love. You are stronger than what you think. Use your strength and courage to step out of this relationship and live the life that God has ordained for you. Happiness and true love is waiting for you. Don’t make them wait any longer. Most importantly, don’t waste too much time because that extra day you decide to stay could be the day your abuser takes your life.

Why do you think there is a lack of discussion within the African American community about Domestic Violence?
One thing that I have learned and it hurts to admit but things such as abuse (child abuse, domestic violence etc.) in the African American community is often sweep under the rug. We have adopted the saying “Stay out of other people’s homes”. This motto has cost people so many lives.

How do you envision changing the level of awareness and discussion with the African American community?
My dream is that the men and women who are big in the African American community (celebs, reality stars, athletes etc.) who have been victims of Domestic Violence will speak up about it. We live in a society where people with a platform don’t always use it in a positive manner. Our generation looks up to these powerful men and women and what better way to use that power by promoting awareness!!

What suggestions do you have for someone that wants to get involved in their community and increase the awareness of domestic violence?
GO FOR IT!! SOMEBODY HAS TO DO IT!! Make a plan, connect with people, schools, churches and different organizations in your community and find out what the needs are. Find the stats of victims in your community and make those people your target audience and start from there.
What feedback have you received from your readers about Hurt No More?
The number one thing readers tell me after reading HURT NO MORE is “I can’t believe you were that transparent in this book” I always laugh and say, “why not? People have to know that they are not alone and the only way other victims can take me seriously is by knowing my story”.

Discover more about the Author’s organization Victimize Me No More here
To order your ebook copy of Hurt No More visit Barnes & Noble or purchase your paperback here

Get your copy today!!!

Sep 17 2012

Wanza Leftwich: Faith and Fertility

I may not know much about infertility but I do know about the power of prayer and standing on God’s word.  I am so happy to welcome Wanza Leftwich, author of Faith and Fertility.  She has an awesome testimony to share!
1. How long have you been writing?
I’ve been writing for twelve years now. Isn’t amazing how fast time goes by!

2. What genre best describes your writing?
My fiction genre is classified as Urban Christian Fiction – the tell it like it is, no holds barred type of Christian writing that depicts real people serving a real God. I also write non-fiction which tends to have the type of impact – writing that is real, transparent andaimed at helping others.

3. What inspired your most recent book?
My most recent book was inspired by my personal life. Faith and Fertility: All Things Are Possible comes directly from my heart. It is about my experience through infertility and how God enabled me to get rid of an infertility defeated mindset.

4. Was it difficult to write on the subject?
Honestly, it was not difficult to write, but i find that the content may be challenging to women who are suffering through infertility. It is not written to keep women in despair or sadness. It gives hope and encourages the reader to activate their faith and believe for the impossible.

5. On twitter, you go by @TheGospelWriter. How did you come up with that name?

Can you believe I recently gave up that name as my twitter handle? I absolutely loved that name. When I first began writing I was taught that you should have a brand. The Gospel Writer became my name because I write about the Gospel of Jesus Christ Be it fiction and non-fiction, I encourage readers to grow in their walk with Christ. Recently, I’ve changed my twitter handle to my name @WanzaLeftwich to represent the brand that is evolving now.

6. How do you balance writing your own books and novels with editing those of others?
I am learning to not take on more than I can handle :-) . Basically, I schedule my clients according to the deadlines that I have. I try not overload my schedule. This works best for me and my clients. I able to meet my deadlines and my clients receive the personal attention that their books deserves.

7. What is the one thing that you would tell someone who is interested in writing a book but has some reservations?
Just write! Get it all out of your system. Don’t worry about editing, grammar or structure. Get it on paper. Let your thoughts flow. Let your heart speak freely. You will be surprised what comes out. Most importantly, don’t be fearful. Someone needs your words.

8. Who motivated you and have you that extra push to begin writing?
I was motivated by my sister in law who self published three books. She told me what I tell people everyday – “just write”. As simple as it sounds, it works. I’m motivated to keep writing when I hear that someone’s life has been changed because of my words.

9. What can we expect from you in the near future?
I’m glad that you asked! I am headed in a new direction. My book Faith and Fertility has ushered me into a new area. With the launch of my
new site(in a few days), www.wanzaleftwich.com, my mission is to encourage women struggling with infertility to overcome it with faith.
I have a series of courses coming out including, the Infertility Defeated Mindset Bootcamp. And of course, you can expect another book, Infertility Defeated.

10. Any last words?
Thank you so much for this interview. I’ve truly enjoyed it! As always, you and your readers can connect with me socially on
www.Twitter.com/wanzaleftwich or www.facebook.com/wanzaleftwich

Get your copy of Faith and Fertility at amazon.com available in paperback and on Kindle!

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Jul 27 2012

Lord I Want To Be Made Whole

“No benefit can ever come from regretting our past.”  Author Paulette Harper-Johnson takes us on a journey to wholeness, being complete and lacking nothing.   This book will open you up, show you your heart and issues, then put you all back together.   I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book from cover to cover.   This book is for everyone, it does not matter where you are at in your journey.   The Author used some of her own testimony, scripture and wisdom to provide an excellent guide to the reader.   I read this using a kindle app and I must say that did not keep me from highlighting certain key points made by the Author.   Completely Whole is definitely a book that I can see myself reading again.  ”Move forward, understanding that suffering, pain, and troubles are not necessarily attacks from the enemy, but can be God’s way of bringing you to a place of surety in him. ”  
About the Book
Completely Whole is resource filled- guide full of practical and Biblically-based principles, real-life application strategies and prayers to give the readers a holistic approach to living a life of wholeness through Jesus. Christ. This book is inspiring, optimistic, hopeful and encouraging while providing a clear-cut, scriptural blueprint for each reader to follow as they allow the Word and the power of God to transform their pain and restore their lives on their road to becoming Completely Whole.
Harper plainly states that “words have the power and ability to create (76)” which can place you in a position to be completely whole. The purpose of her book Completely Whole is to “bring the reader to the place of wholeness—spirit, soul and body.” She provides a biblical foundation, personal experiences, prayer and a confession in each chapter to give a voice of reason to the women who cry out to learn more about who they are, where they are to go and why it is so important to know God’s word. Her personal walk is the example within the text. Jewell Williams Ministries
About the Author
Paulette Harper Johnson, an award winning author, writing coach, and speaker, seeks to inspire women from all walks of life. As an inspirational and motivational speaker, Paulette’s desire is to empower, influence and cultivate women to move forward while dealing with issues that hinder women from becoming all they are created to be. Her topics are Biblically sound and pertinent to the needs of today’s women.
Paulette is a wife, mother, grandmother, Bible teacher, radio host, writer and the owner of WNL Virtual Blog Tours. Her years of marketing her own self-published books have created a special talent in her—her ability to sell a product well. Not only does she specialize in marketing strategies, but also serves as the publicist for P.F.L. Publishing.
She has been mentoring and teaching women for years though seminars, workshops and conferences. Paulette Harper Johnson serves in ministry as an Elder with her husband Sr. Pastor Tony E. Johnson at Word of Faith Worship Center in Bradenton and North Port FL.
You can connect with Paulette Harper-Johnson at www.pauletteharper.com

Purchase book: Amazon

Paperback: http://tinyurl.com/425euh7

Kindle:   http://tinyurl.com/3novrjg

Feb 28 2012

Rewrite Your Story with L.O.V.E.

February’s theme has been about LOVE and today’s Author Interview talks all about it.  Shivawn Mitchell is an Author, Business Owner and Life and Vision Coach.  Her book Rewrite Your Story is available today!

What is L.O.V.E.?
L.O.V.E. stands for living out visions eternally. We started L.O.V.E. with the sole intent to empower women to live the life they are designed and desire to live. I believe so many times we feed ourselves junk and accept junk from other people that we start to believe it more than the positive that is really within us. It is our desire to shine light and help the person believe they can become who they are suppose to. We equip women to have a great relationship with themselves, focus on what they are suppose to be doing in life and then impact the world around them. So many times people go through life instead of growing through life. It is our intent to guide you toward your destiny. We offer life (relationship) coaching as well as the L.O.V.E. academy. We desire to create change agents for the world!When did you develop a passion for writing?

I’ve always had a passion for writing. My mother gave me my first journal as a child and since then it has become my therapy. I couldn’t imagine a day that I didn’t write. If I miss writing in my journal at night now I end up writing pages the next day!Who or what motivated you to write, “Rewrite Your Story”?

My motivation came from myself and always being a sounding board for friends and family. I experienced some hurt and disappointment in my life and I saw myself repeating the same lessons over and over again. Once I decided to stop lying to myself and get over my pity party. I realized it was so many people who were going through the same things I went through. I wanted to be that fresh voice of reason that just didn’t sugar coat my mistake in order to help someone else.Did you find it difficult to write about your story?

Well I tried writing a book a few years back and it just wasn’t from a good place. I was still hurt and hadn’t really dealt with everything and truly forgiven myself and others. But the second time around it was so much easier because it was objective and just the plain truth. Regardless of how I looked to others.What is one of the valuable lessons you learned, that you often share with others?

Stop lying to yourself. People walk around with so many lies and it stops them from growing as a person. No one will ever be perfect so instead of running from your issues deal with them head on so you can live a good life.What did you have to go through to learn it?

I think every mistake I made initially at first I wanted to point the blame at someone else instead of looking at Shivawn to see what role I played in the situation. I realized I was doing myself more harm than good!How do you balance your writing along with being a Life Coach?

Well my degree is in counseling so I’ve had to learn about balance for my total life the hard way. I always want to help people and often put myself on the back burner. But I quickly realized that if I was burned out I couldn’t help others. So I pay attention to when I need to take a break and don’t allow people to make me feel pressure to perform.What is one of the common misconceptions you find that people make surrounding their past, mistakes, flaws, etc.?

Most people believe that they can’t overcome there past they keep looking back. Instead of using your past as a lesson to push you forward. People also tend to compare themselves to others. Not taking in mind what the other person had to overcome too in order to get to where they are.What piece of advice would you give someone who is looking to make a new start?

Always take the time to sit down everyday to see what worked and didn’t. You can never change until you realize what your strength and weakness are. Then develop a plan. You can’t get results with no action. Also as you work your plan you have to remain consistent and don’t think change happens over night. Keep at it and celebrate when you grow and don’t stay stuck on a pity party when you stumble. Stuff happens!!What can we expect from you in the future?

I plan or writing more books and also publishing books for other authors through my publishing company. I also want to work on creating short films, traveling and a lot more public speaking.
In addition I start my Love Me book tour in March!
Any last words?
Don’t just have a vision but live it loud!
Rewrite Your Story is available on 2-28-11 at www.we-r-love and now on kindle at Amazon.
Connect with Shivawn Mitchell on Twitter
Feb 1 2012

Love Is In The Air…

With February being the month of “Love”, I thought it would be perfect to start the month off with an interview with Shon Hyneman.  If you follow him on twitter, you know him as @1DrLove.  He is a Husband, Father, Minister, Author, Radio Show Host and a source of valuable information for those desiring a relationship or those in need of working out their relationship.  He currently has three titles that are available and is working on his fourth.  Find out more about this author below.

From your first title, “If you apply these principles…God is more practical than we think”, what is one principle that impacted or changed your perception the most? It has to be the importance of time management. As I got older I realize that time waits on no one. We can always pick up a check, but once time has passed we can never get it back.

How did you develop such a passion for relationships and marriage? Being birthed of adultery and knowing the hurt of a missing parent. I wouldn’t want any child to witness that kind of hurt, so if my wife and I can help others…When I became Christian, my pastor was passionate about marriage & relationships and I became a sponge and soaked up everything on what the bible had to say about marriage and relationships.

You often share some of your testimony, how would you describe your relationships prior to giving your life to God? Slick. Everything I did had a motive behind it. I only tried to impress others for something in return. People labeled me as a “good guy” because I was able to put a façade in front of others. I knew what I was doing and my motives were all wrong.

How did Never Again Ministries begin and how did you decide on such a powerful name? Never Again Ministries began after I wrote my first book in 2008. God had given me so much material we had to put out in the atmosphere! It began when I was out of work, and I had nothing but time on my hands so my wife and I stepped out in faith and all our needs was met regardless of a limited income.

The name came from us giving spiritual guidance to married couples and when people were fed up and was ready for change they would say “never again” when people are at their breaking point and are ready for change that’s where we come in as a ministry.

Was the ever a moment that you wanted to give up or felt like it was too much?  Yes! Sometimes people put demands on you and want more and more. Sometimes it seems like your best isn’t good enough and that’s when I start to get weary at times.

Who have been some of your constant motivators and encouragers? My wife has always been my biggest encourager. Dr. Myles Munroe, Dr. Mike Murdock and Dr. R.A. Vernon are my motivators.

Describe the support and encouragement that your wife gives? Sometimes life will throw you a curveball and just to know that my wife is consistent with her graceful words of encouragement and eagerness to help me speaks volumes. She does a great job of keeping me accountable also.

Is there a topic that you both have different views on? Not that I can think of. We are two peas in a pod (Laughs)

What can we expect from Never Again Ministries in the future? More speaking engagements, books and special guests on the Doctor of Love Show in 2012.

What is one thing that you would say to a couple that was experiencing some turmoil? That turmoil is not a bad thing, it help you grow. It is only a season and it will come to past. We have to learn how to have a stick and stay mentality during those tough seasons in our life.

What advice would you give to the single men and women? Be the best YOU God has created you to be. In order to have a successful relationship, be the right person as opposed to being needy. Work on you as opposed to looking for someone to “complete” you. You should be complete when we meet.

Any last words? No. Thank you for the opportunity!

Thank you so much for taking out the time.   I encourage all of my readers, if you are struggling with love or even considering giving up, seek out some counsel.  If you have been through a rough and rocky relationship in the past, make the vow today, “Never Again“.

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Jan 24 2012

‘How to Change Your Mindset + Live Your Most Fabulous Life’

So I wanted to make sure that all of my readers were on track for having a fabulous 2012.  My year started off great and it is getting “betterer and betterer” as one of my twitter followers would say.  I have been following the Author that I am featuring today, it seems like, since I first started off on twitter.  She may have not even realized it, but she has truly been a source of inspiration to me.  Now having her very own book in  my possession, I couldn’t ask for more.   I would encourage you all to download this ebook today and start taking the steps to making a brighter tomorrow.  I was able to conduct a brief interview and thanks again Jamie for taking out the time.

When did you first discover that you enjoyed writing?

I was in second grade when I first discovered that I enjoyed writing. I had written a short story and won an award, and after that point, I was hooked. Over the years, the type of writing I wanted to do for a living varied, and at times, I thought about pursuing other things. But the desire to become a writer never left me. I must say that I’m very happy and blessed to be able to do this.

What types of activities were you involved in that helped you develop your passion?

My passion for writing really developed while I was in college. I started out as an English major, and my second semester, I took a women’s studies class, and I began writing for the student newspaper. Taking that class really sparked my interest in women’s issues, and I decided that that’s what I wanted to cover in my writing career after I graduated, and I wanted to start a magazine for women. Ultimately, I created my blog, which blends all of my interests.

You dedicate so much time sharing your passion for writing and being an inspiration to others.  Who would you say has been and continues to be an inspiration to you?

I can’t say that it’s just one person who inspires me. Over the last couple of years, I’ve met so many incredible, talented and fabulous women who are doing great things and who are following their own dreams and finding success in their own ways. These are the people who have inspired me and continue to inspire me to keep moving forward.

In your book, you discuss limiting beliefs and affirmations. How have affirmations impacted your life and career?

Affirmations have really changed my life and career for the better. It has made me become more positive about everything in my life, and having a positive mindset and attitude has helped me achieve my goals. I would say that my affirmations have literally changed my life and continue to do so.

Describe a typical day for “Mocha Writer”.

On a typical day, I spend my mornings working on client work, writing my blog posts for the day and replying to emails. Because my husband works at night, I spend time with him in the afternoon before he leaves. In the evening, I finish up any client work I have and write down my goals for the next day.

How do you balance your writing for clients and you personal writing projects?

Because both are important to me, I know I have to make time for them both, even though it can be difficult at times. I always say that if I can just get something done on my personal writing, then I’ve achieved my goal, whether it’s only for 30 minutes or an hour. So when I’m working on a personal project, I make some time every day to work on it, and I also work on it on weekends.

What can we expect from you in the future? Are you working on any projects now?

‘How to Change Your Mindset + Live Your Most Fabulous Life’ will be in paperback soon, and I’m very excited about that! I’m also working on my next book: ‘The Black Woman’s Guide to Life as a 20-something,’ and it will be released this summer.

 What would you say to someone who is interested in pursuing a career in writing?

I would say hone your craft by writing daily, even if it’s just writing down your thoughts in a journal or in your personal, private blog. The more you write, the better you become at it. Also, stay encouraged and be persistent. The road to becoming a writer is not necessarily a quick or easy one, but if you continue working at it, you will ultimately get where you want to be. Don’t give up!

 What is your definition of fabulous?

I think ‘fabulous’ means living your life on your terms, being the best you that you can be and living your life to it’s fullest! It means going after the things you want, loving yourself and just doing you.

 What is one of your favorite hobbies outside of writing?

I know it’s cliché, but I love to read. I’m also a nail polish fanatic, so I love painting my nails.

Any last words?

I just want to encourage everyone to keep moving towards your dreams and goals. If you maintain a positive attitude and mindset, believe in yourself and your abilities, trust God and do your part, you will get where you want to be! Let nothing hold you back.

You can follow this wonderful author on twitter @mochawriter and visit her online magazine at www.forcoloredgurls.com Download your ebook today.

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