SORMAG - JAN/FEB - Writing The Book

SORMAG

Shades Of Romance - http://sormag.com

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Urban Fiction Meesha Mink

Multi-Cultural Literary Magazine

DIGITAL

Romance Author K.M. Jackson M.K. Kane

Resolutely Yours

Fantasy Author LaVerne Thompson

Fiction Authors

Building A Fan Base One Fan At A Time

Kimberla Lawson Roby Sean Russell

Books To Help You Get Started

Cover Author Lutishia Lovely

WritingThe Book JAN/FEB 2013

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Contributors

Volume 2, Issue 1 http://sormag.com

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Calendar

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Dr. Linda F. Beed is an author, educator, speaker and performing artist.

Visit her online at: www.lindabeed.com and www.thewriteplan.net LaShaunda C. Hoffman is the editor of SORMAG. Her motto, the first promotion is on us (interview) the second one is on you. Need help in your online promotion, let SORMAG help you. - http//lashaunda.blogspot.com Typing On Laptop" by Nutdanai Apikhomboonwaroot - 5 Circles Colours" by Idea go – 8 Abstract Flower Background" by rakratchada torsap - 10 Orange Abstract Floral Background" by digitalart - 16 Notebook And Pen" by Paul - 18 To Do Word Concept" by 89studio - 30 Abstract Background" by SOMMAI - 34 Blue Digital Background " by dream designs - 36 Paper And Flowers" by Idea go - 38 http://sormag.com

Letters To the Editor 1sormag@gmail.com Advertising http://conta.cc/VBY9zS

Ads In This Issue

Literary Signature Services - 2 WNL Virtual Blogtours -3 One Last Cry - 6 The Fixer Upper - 6 Moving On - 31 Unexpected Truth - 35 The Ultimate Bookclub Experience - 44 SORMAG Eblasts - 48

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Fiction Author Kimberla Lawson Roby -10 Fiction Author Sean Russell - 14 Urban Fiction Meesha Mink - 16 Article - Resolutely Yours

by Dr. Linda Beed - 18 Cover Author Lutishia Lovely - 20 Article - Building A Fan Base

by LaShaunda C. Hoffman - 26 Fantasy Author LaVerne Thompson - 28 Books To Help You Get Started - 30 Romance Author K.M. Jackson - 32 Celebrating Black History Month - 34 Romance Author M.K. Kane - 36 In Memory Monica Harris Mindolovich & Sarah Rachel Berry - 45 Quote Of The Month “Keep your dreams alive.

Understand to achieve anything requires faith and beliefin yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication.

Remember all things are possible for those who believe.�

-- Gail Devers http://sormag.com

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JAN/FEB 2013

C O N T E N T IN EVERY ISSUE Note From The Editor - 7 Notes From You - 8 5 Things To Do This Month - 9 Simple Promotions - 12 5 Things To Motivate Your Writing - 13 Businesses Helping Writers - 38

WRITING THE BOOK Page 5

One Last Cry: Revisited Why can’t love be easy?

Vanessa is married and has it all: rich husband, house, cars, but she is missing something. She is missing the thrill of passion. The chemical and physical romance that two people share can lead to many twists and turns.

When you encounter that person, how do you know when not to cross the proverbial line? Could you avoid the pitfall of love, lies, and lust?

Follow Vanessa and Ron Williams as their lives are invaded by a stranger named Pete. Watch as the road less traveled can sometimes lead to hurt, then lust, and finally love.

The only question is-can they steer clear of the dangers of such a curvy road and get their lives back on track? Or, will they be lost forever in their one last cry?

One Last Cry - Revisited

By Manswell T. Peterson

The Fixer-Uppers

By Cynthianna

Can a single mom find happiness on a blind date--or at least dinner with a male who can cut up his own food?

Cassie and Mike believe they're "in like" not "in love."

But when down-on-his-luck Mike is evicted, Cassie takes him into her home. Mike starts fixing everything from window screens to little boys' broken hearts. Will Cassie let him fix hers?

When you least expect it, love happens!

Check out a novel by Cynthianna: http://www.cynthianna.com http://www.devinedestinies.com/the-fixer-uppers

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W

What I love about the New Year is the chance to start over.

Maybe last year wasn’t what you imagined it to be. Maybe you had an idea for a story but you never sat down and wrote it.

Maybe your book to read pile is getting bigger but you didn’t get a chance to read any of the books in it.

2013 is the year for you. You can make this year bigger and better. You can start on that book that you’ve been talking about writing for years.

You can finally make time to put a dent in all those books beside your bed.

Note From The Editor

Books LaShaunda Is Reading

I’m excited about the possibilities of 2013. I have so many ideas for SORMAG Digital, and I’m looking forward to seeing them come out of my head. I have two books that have kept me up many nights waiting to be typed on my computer and I have so many wonderful books to read.

I sat down and wrote out my goals for this year and I plan on taking a Saturday and creating a vision board. I think seeing my ideas will make me want to complete them more.

I’m excited for you. 2013 can be the year you’ve always imagined to see your dreams come true.

Let’s make this year the best year ever.

Now grab a hot cup of tea, find a good spot to read and enjoy this issue of SORMAG Digital. Drop me a line and let me know what you think of it. 1SORMAG@gmail.com See ya on the net, LaShaunda C. Hoffman Editor/Publisher of SORMAG

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5 Things To Do This Month Sneak off to the movies

Recommend a book to a child

Learn something new Sign up for a class

Join your favorite author’s mailing list

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Notes from You Thanks so much for including me in your wonderful children's book issue.

Kelly Starling Lyons

Hi there sis, we're sharing the news about Alexis' first in magazine interview, thx to you.

So thankful Marissa Monteilh

Thanks, LaShaunda!

The magazine looks great.

Zetta Elliott http://sormag.com

Would you like to be our next featured author, reader, poet or short story writer?

Contact us at

1SORMAG@gmail.com

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Kimberla Lawson Roby New York Times Bestselling Author Kimberla Lawson Roby has published 17 novels. Her novels have frequented numerous bestseller lists, including The New York Times, USA Today, The Washington Post, Publishers Weekly, Essence Magazine, Upscale Magazine, Emerge Magazine, Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com, Wal-Mart, The Dallas Morning News, and The Austin Chronicle to name a few, and both BEHIND CLOSED DOORS and CASTING THE FIRST STONE were #1 Blackboard bestsellers for four consecutive months in both 1997 and 2000. BEHIND CLOSED DOORS was the #1 Blackboard Best-selling book for paperback fiction in 1997.

Kimberla is a 2012 NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction, the recipient of the 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, and 2011 Author of the Year – Female award presented by the African-American Literary Award Show in New York, the Blackboard Fiction Book of the Year Award in 2001 for CASTING THE FIRST STONE, What would you like readers to take away the 1998 First-Time Author Award from Chicago’s from your book?

Black History Month Book Fair and Conference, and in 2001, Kimberla was inducted into the Rock I'd like readers to know that not every drug Valley College (Rockford, IL) Alumni Hall of addict, whether it be those using prescription Fame. drugs or illegal drugs, are folks who are homeless, out committing crimes or are down Each of her novels deal with very real issues, on their luck so to speak. including corruption within the church, drug addiction, gambling addiction, infidelity, social status, single motherhood, infertility, sibling rivalry What is your favorite scene from your book? and jealousy, domestic violence, sexual abuse, mental illness, care-giving of a parent, racial and I don't really have favorite scenes for any of gender discrimination in the workplace, sexual harassment, overweight issues, and drug addiction. my books. Instead, I just wait to hear what scenes my readers seem to enjoy most.

Kimberla resides in Illinois with her husband, Will. http://sormag.com

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ADDICTION. DECEPTION. PRETTY PICTURES HIDE UGLY SECRETS. THE PERFECT MARRIAGE Denise and Derrek Shaw are the perfect American couple. Happily married for fifteen years, they have a wonderful daughter, Mackenzie, successful careers, and a beautiful house in a posh Chicago suburb. They are attractive, respected . . . and hiding a shocking secret: a dangerous addiction to drugs.

It started innocently enough. Denise occasionally used prescription drugs to help her deal with the long hours and demanding nature of her job. Derrek, also under pressure at work, began using cocaine socially with some of his colleagues.

They can quit whenever they want to. At least, that's what Denise would like to believe . . .

As her job becomes more stressful, Denise can no longer get through the day without a fix.

Derrek realizes his harmless habit has become anything but, and desperately wants to get clean. However, his attempts are derailed when there is a sudden family tragedy. Once soul mates, now this husband and wife are quickly losing the immense love that had been the cornerstone of their marriage. With her parents spiraling out of control, Mackenzie makes an unexpected move to take matters into her own hands. Is her sacrifice too late-or is there still hope? Is there a final chance to save the Shaw family?

Fiction http://sormag.com

What did you learn while writing this book?

Through my research, I learned a lot about addiction in general and about the behavior of those who are addicted to drugs.

What was your biggest obstacle in regards to getting published? How did you overcome it?

When I finished writing my first book and submitted query letters to literary agents, I received rejection letters from every one of them.

Then, when I submitted letters and initial chapters to editors at publishing houses, the same thing happened. I overcame all of the rejection, though, by listening to my mom, who told me I shouldn't give up no matter what and also by listening to my husband who encouraged me to use my business experience to start my own business and selfpublish.

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Simple Promotions Tips to Promote Online

C reate Your Mailing List

C reate A C ontest

Send out afn e xc e rp t o yo u r la te s t book

Join Hootsuite and set up daily statuses http://sormag.com

C reate aes b lo g s e r i

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5 Things To Motivate Your 5 4 3 2 1

Writing

Writing Prompts Join a Writing Association Find a Writing Buddy Subscribe to a Writing Magazine Register For an Online Writing Class http://sormag.com

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Sean Russell

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

A great sense of enjoyment from being in an ordinary world yet full of drama and set in the Caribbean and meeting some of our characters. Also even when the chips are down never give up you will overcome in the end like Phil.

What is your favorite scene from your book?

Sean Russell is Jamaican born, grew up in Barbados. A family physician in private practice for twenty years, married with three children.

He wrote and produced the film ‘The Kite Flyer’ which copped the Festival Pick in the 2007 Bridgetown Film Festival and remains popular among viewers to this day. He is also an amateur motor racing enthusiast, racing at the local Bushy Park circuit in Barbados.

They are many - The one when Phil was telling his friend Teddy he planned to kill Jade and Teddy says go ahead kill her.

"Guilty! The Trials of Phil Ferguson" is his first novel and currently working on his soon to be What did you learn while writing this book? released second novel "Revenge! The Return of Jimmy Cadogan"(the sequel to Guilty!).

Writing is work one. Also believe in yourself and look for people who believe in your work to work with you.

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Guilty – The Trials of Phil Ferguson is a story set in Barbados about a young attorney, Phil Ferguson who is set up by a rival older lawyer Jimmy Cadogan, for the attempted murder of Phil’s wife. It is fast paced, thrilling and sexy. Phil finds himself in a never ending battle against circumstances which continue to emerge as he seeks to prove his innocence and avoid going to jail, ending his illustrious legal career. Intertwined in Phil’s drama is that of Amanda who is a New York based top model originally from Guyana but who grew up in Barbados after fleeing her homeland. Amanda is gorgeous smart, ambitious and an obvious chink in Phil’s armour.

What was your biggest obstacle in regards to getting published?

Not knowing where to go or what to do.

How did you overcome it?

I was fortunate to meet a publisher who liked the book and published it.

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

I can't say, life is a learning process, so I accept that I will be ignorant at one point in time but that I will learn as I go on. There would be little point in it if you knew everything from the get go.

Phil’s involvement with Amanda causes him more grief than pleasure as news of his infidelity makes its way to Jade his wife. Phil is led to believe that his wife has had an affair with What is something readers would be the man he despises most in life Jimmy surprised you do?

Cadogan.

Jimmy Cadogan is a hateful person, an older successful attorney lacking in morals but rich in money and ambition, His mission is to destroy Phil Ferguson and gain financially in the process.

I made a film that won an award called "The Kite Flyer."

When you’re not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

'Liming' - I guess you guys would call it hanging out with friends.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website) docrussell31@gmail.com www.docrussell.blogspot.com Facebook - Guilty The Trials of Phil Ferguson.

Fiction http://sormag.com

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Meesha Mink

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

First and foremost I want the reader to be entertained with varying levels of enlightenment depending on the book. In Real Wifeys: Hustle Hard--just as with its predecessors Real Wifeys: On the Grind and Real Wifeys: Get Money--I want younger women to realize that completing relying on their significant other for financial security can be risky. By showing each of the "wifeys" in the books having to face rebuilding their lives when that backbone is suddenly snatched away, I hope to give younger women something to consider in terms of the decisions they make--or should make--for their lives.

What is your favorite scene from your book?

I definitely have a favorite scene because of the emotional components of a huge confrontation between two of the characters, but to reveal the actual scene would be giving away a pivotal plot point so I have to plead the fifth on this one.

Meesha Mink is the bestselling and award-

winning author of more than twenty books written under three names, including the explosive Hoodwives series. She was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, and lives in South Carolina.

For more information, please visit MeeshaMink.com.

What did you learn while writing this book?

As I do with every book that I write, I learned that I love what I do for a living. I love seeing an idea come to fruition--from the outline or synopsis to the final page. I love the entire creative process. I learned that I was born to be a writer and to be able to make a living from doing what I love is a true blessing.

Urban Fiction http://sormag.com

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What was your biggest obstacle in regards to getting published? How did you overcome it?

My biggest obstacle to getting published was myself.

First, I had to finish a book. I would start a dozen different stories and never finish them. I shake my head when I think of all the ideas I let go to waste fifteen years ago! Second, I had to stop saying "I want to be published" and learn how to go about being published. Once I finally took the initiative to research how to get published, I was able to properly submit to publishers. The first book I ever finished was a romance, Admission of Love, and I submitted it to three publishers. I was offered deals by two of them.

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

Three things I wish I knew then that I know now are: 1) It takes a lot of sleepless nights to get a book finished.

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Real Wifeys Hustle Hard CAN SUGA STAYTRUE TO HER MAN— AND RESIST HIS DANGEROUS LIFESTYLE?

Sophie “Suga” Alvarez is all about two things: loving her man and making her money.

Suga is the wifey of Dane, a man whose criminal lifestyle as a loan shark is in total contrast to her successful career in business. Dane swears he will go legit before they get married, but when their house is raided, Suga has to decide to avoid jail time by turning on him or standing by the man she loves. Things get more complicated when she steps in to run Dane’s business and has to use her book and street smarts to stay ahead of the game and out of the line of fire.

Meanwhile, when Suga learns the terrible truth about her father’s criminal past, she uncovers a secret that will change her relationship with her former best friend, Luscious, forever. Real Wifeys: Hustle Hard is the third and most explosive installment in a fierce and gritty series from one of today’s boldest voices in street lit. http://sormag.com

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Resolutely Yours

by Dr. Linda F. Beed W

We’ve entered a new year and many of us have found ourselves doing what we’ve done in years gone by--we made a New Year’s resolution.

Those resolutions are often made with good intentions. Many of those proclamations range from personal goals, such as getting in shape or organizing personal space. Other admirable goals might involve getting business affairs in order.

If you aspire to become a published author, your resolution may be, “This year I publish.”

But, what if, you’ve already achieved that goal? Perhaps you have several notable titles under your belt.

You’ve made the best-sellers list a time or two, you’re sought after to headline literary events and your speaker fees are quite enviable.

Or, maybe you’ve published a book with reasonable success. You didn’t come close to making any of the ‘industry recognized’ best-selling lists, and becoming a literary headliner is still on your ‘to do’ list.

In this season of renewal, resolutions, would you resolve to impart your fund of knowledge into an aspiring author of your choice?

Think about it.

As an avid reader, can you count on both hands the times you’ve overheard or made comments regarding the quality of books on the market? Have you reviewed a book and felt compelled to send a note to the author? “I loved the story, but it could have benefitted from a better developed plot, protagonist, and editing.”

As a literary professional, you love what you do. You have a fund of knowledge that the aspiring author and the reading community could definitely benefit from. That being the case, I tender this question during this season of renewal. Would you consider a resolution that included mentoring- pouring your time and talent into an aspiring author? http://sormag.com

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Before you answer, think about those who gave of themselves in your time of need. It may have been one response to an email, or the opportunity to converse at length with someone that sparked or reignited your fire to write.

Maybe the persistence that drove you to the goal line came from the lack of opportunities stated above.

As it is with most people, extra time is not a commodity many of us have to spare. But, would you consider a resolution that would benefit someone in need of becoming the gift you’ve already been to the world?

Below are a few relations I offer as you consider pouring into another: 1. This year I resolve to make myself available to answer questions to an author in need.

2. This year I resolve to critique one project for an author in need 3. This year I resolve to present a writing workshop (online or in person) free of charge to beginning writers.

4. This year I resolve to help an author get through the legalities of self-publishing or understanding the language of an offered publishing contract.

5. This year I resolve to provide a scholarship or assist in financial needs for an author to attend a writing conference.

This may not seem like much to some. To others it may seem to be too much. Regardless of your mindset, remember that whatever you can, do could be the key to unlocking the door to purpose for another. *SORMAG*

COMING SOON From Dr. Linda F. Beed

Through The Fire http://sormag.com

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Meet SORMAG's

Cover Author http://sormag.com

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Five questions about books:

L

utishia Lovely is an award-winning author of sixteen novels, six of which are romance titles written under her alter-ego pseudo, Zuri Day. In addition to her wildly popular Hallelujah Love Series, Ms. Lovely has a hot new trilogy called "The Business" about a soul food dynasty where delicious drama and sizzling scandal is always on the menu!

Prior to becoming a full-time author, Lutishia enjoyed many different careers.

They all, however, had one thing in common - they all were linked into a "world of words". From administrative assistant to radio personality to actor to managing editor and senior writer for a holistic magazine,words have always been the magic that made Lutishia's world go 'round. Probably one of the spins that would most surprise readers is the fact that Lutishia was a rapper! That's right, for a short stint in the 90s, Lutishia was billed as "The Rhaptress" (a combination of a rapper and an actress), and toured with other singers and musicians throughout southern CA. She's happy now to beat out a rhythm on her keyboard...songs in the key of "writer" that she hopes will inspire and entertain!

One book that you have read more than once.

LaVyrle Spencer’s The Fulfillment One book you loved as a child.

Maya Angelou’s I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings One book that made you laugh.

Ernesta Carter’s 32 Candles One book that made you cry.

Lolita Tademy’s Red River One book you wish you'd written.

I don’t wish for another author’s story, per se, but I would love to experience the success of a Harry Potter, Twilight or Fifty Shades of Lutishia!

Lutishia Lovely The Hallelujah Series http://sormag.com

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COVER AUTHOR How did you start out your writing career?

The very first work I created that was professionally produced (besides the cheer I cowrote that led to me and my neighbor becoming the first Black cheerleaders in our ten-city sporting league) was a play called “Knowledge…or What”. It was about two AfricanAmerican women with very different views on their nationality.

Nagatashaunte Knowledge was a proud, militant sistah who embraced her culture while Wendy What was running as far away from her race as she could. I wrote, produced and starred in it. Guess which woman I played.

Wrong! I played Wendy and it was some of the most fun I’ve had on stage. Along with stage and screenplays I wrote news, sports and other copy during almost ten years in radio, and really honed my chops as senior writer and managing

My foray into novel writing happened quite by accident. The internet company I worked for was a casualty in the dot.com crash. I received a phone call, a two-week severance check and the chance to keep my companypurchased laptop. I sat in my dining room staring at a blank page, asked Spirit what I was supposed to do. The answer?

Write a book. So I did.

A lot ofpeople may be able to put pen to paper.

But once the end is was your biggest written… it’s time What obstacle in regards to getting to handle the other published? How did you 80% ofthis game! overcome it?

My publishing journey was amazing and getting an offer was easy. I gave one book to one person and was offered a deal. I only learned later that my story was the exception and not the rule. The journey did hit a snag, however, when contract negotiations threatened to break down. Because there was an offer on the table I was able to join The Authors Guild and enlist the assistance of their legal department.

Ultimately, this obstacle proved beneficial as it led to the steps taken to secure an agent. I have one of the best ones in the business, and that it is a huge blessing.

I’d also like to add that I am a huge believer in co-creating our destinies. Since the mid90s I’ve practiced what’s now commonly referred to as the law of attraction; spiritual principles that include visualization, positive affirmations, appropriate actions based on what one desires and unwavering faith. There was a lot of spiritual work done before I made that fateful trip to New York in 2005. I believe that’s what created the “miracle” of my easy experience.

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LUTISHIA LOVLELY What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

You know what, LaShaunda? I can’t say there’s anything I wish I’d known. But that’s partly because I did my homework. Over a year of research occurred before Sex In The Sanctuary was independently published. While I am delighted to now work with two publishing houses, that process of forming a company and handling every aspect of publishing myself – from the writing to the selling – was some of the best on-the-job training experiences I could have had.

Ultimately, I believe that everything is in Divine Order and that I learned what I need to when I need it.

What should a new writer know about the publishing business?

New writers should understand that being a full-time, published author is fun, exciting and a total blessing…but not as easy as it looks. This is a business, first and foremost, which calls for a diverse skill set – writing, marketing, public relations, business management – with the ability to constantly multi-task. A lot of people may be able to put pen to paper. But once the end is written… it’s time to handle the other 80% of this game! The publishing industry is changing rapidly, and it is imperative that one keep up with how these changes may affect their position in it. There are more options for people who want to pursue a writing career which, depending on the amount of time and effort a person puts into the craft, has proved both positive and challenging in preserving the integrity of this amazing art form of storytelling. http://sormag.com

What did you learn while writing this book?

What I’ve learned to do throughout my writing career is to trust Spirit and the character’s voices. When struggling with a scene, or not sure about the direction of a character or storyline, or even when I hit those spots where my brain says “no mas,” I’ve learned to step away from the project, trust that everything is in Divine Order, and while finishing The Eleventh Commandment believing that just as had happened with the previous nineteen books that this book, number twenty, would also get done. Okay, I felt that way a good, oh, 80% of the time. The other 20% was spent freaking out, stressing out and drinking Jesus juice! :) What is your favorite scene from your book?

That’s a tough question because there are four couples highlighted with four concurrent storylines: Cy and Hope Taylor, Tony and Stacy Johnson, Gabriel and Frieda Livingston, and Darius and Bo. I like each of them at different times for different reasons but I probably laughed out loudest during a “misunderstanding” involving Darius and Bo. What would you like readers to take away from your book?

If I had to put a theme or message to this novel it would be “unconditional love.” Love for others and as importantly love for self. We may not agree with everyone’s choices, but every day we have the opportunity to practice the first commandment spoken by Jesus in the New Testament: judge not that you are not judged.

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COVER AUTHOR I hope that they see how Spirit’s love is unconditional to everyone, no matter their color, creed, lifestyle and/or religious convictions.

And, as always, I want readers to be inspired, entertained, maybe even educated a bit…

What’s playing on your CD while you’re writing?

Mostly, I prefer a quiet office. But sometimes soft classical music or jazz is playing. To get inspired for a scene I’ll play whatever song fits the mood, or artist I’m referencing in the novel which in The Eleventh Commandment included Beverly “BAM” Crawford, Ricki Byars Beckwith, Kem, Babyface, classic George Benson and Tupac.

What is your most popular book that the readers still talk about and why?

Great question! It depends on the audience, really. Those more familiar with the Business Series fell in love with the Livingstons and are still emailing me about Taking Care of Business, and wondering if there will be another book. Stay tuned! For Hallelujah Lovers, the deliciously flawed Nate Thicke, otherwise known as Reverend Feelgood, still gets a lot of airtime. He was the first character mentioned a few weeks ago when I chatted with a group of readers in Fort Worth, TX. So many juicy topics explored: adultery, betrayal, and the practice of “spiritual covering”. It was one of the more controversial storylines and a book club favorite. http://sormag.com

Discussions were intense!

If you could be a character from your books, who would you be?

Hope Taylor. I’d love to meet an intelligent, successful, amazing man like her husband, add my name to his endless bank account, and move into a beautiful property with an ocean view!

When you're not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I live in wine country and love visiting the vineyards where wonderful parties, tastings and concerts are held. I’m a chef in my own mind and a lover of vegan cuisine. As we speak, homemade red quinoa and chick pea veggie burgers are firming up in the freezer. Hey, don’t knock them until you try them. They are amazing! I’m winning hardcore carnivore family and friends to my side…on occasion. ::smile:: Want to check them out? Hold on…let me get my camera. See…I told you. Nutritious and delicious! I love watching sports and love to travel. On my bucket list is visiting as many countries as possible and every state in the union. So far I’m at thirty-nine states, more than a dozen countries and counting! Next year Washington, Alaska and Panama…here I come!

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website) I love to interact with readers and to be included in book club discussions. Website: LutishiaLovely.com; Facebook.com/Lutishia.lovely;

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LUTISHIA LOVLELY Twitter @ lutishialovely; Email: lutishialovely@gmail.com.

Anything you'd like to say to the readers of SORMAG? First, I’d like to say something to you, LaShaunda Hoffman! Thank you so very much for this opportunity to connect with the SORMAG community and for your love and tireless dedication to the world of literature.

Ironically, in the infancy of my career, your online writer conference was the first of its kind that I ever attended! I didn’t even realize that until while reading an article you wrote celebrating ten years in the business. You mentioned the conference and I had an aha moment. “Wait a minute. That was LaShaunda? I was there!!!” Ha! In this moment I’m sending love, light and a big virtual hug to “The Lovelies”: fans, supporters and book clubs who’ve been with me since the beginning, as well as those who’ve just picked up their first Lovely read. Lastly, I want to congratulate you on this stellar magazine and on your own literary journey towards your very first novel! I’ll be one of the first in line to support you, just as you’ve supported writers all these years. I ‘preciate ‘cha! *SORMAG*

The members of Kingdom Citizens Christian Center believe in sharing the spirit of love and generosity with others. Even so, they can't seem to follow the ten commandments, a fact that suggests it just might be time to add rule number eleven. . .

While Frieda Moore has not found her way to the Good Word—she has charted a path to a really good, upscale life. Still, she's not about to let her prominent surgeon husband and baby son get in the way of her good time. The sizzling blessings she's getting from her primed-and-ready 25-year-old lover are too divine to resist. . .until one too many secrets threaten to ruin this bad girl's heaven on earth. . .

Frieda's more sensible cousin, Hope Taylor, was sure she and her spouse, Cy, were solid-in-the-spirit.

But now a long-lost love is requesting an act of Christian charity that for Cy could be a second chance at temptation. And when Hope's best friend, Stacy, must decide if a money-making scheme with her ex will fix her rocky marriage, the consequences will have the saved, maybe-saved, and the hardly-saved begging for deliverance . . . http://sormag.com

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Building A Fan Base One Fan At A Time

by LaShaunda C. Hoffman

Creating a database/email list is one of the most important things you do as a writer. You probably started with your email services, saving the emails you received. This is a good way to start. However eventually you will have to create a spreadsheet or pay for a database service to keep all your information.

I suggest you do both. You always want to have all your reader’s information.

There are two types of mailing lists, an online mailing list and a mailing list you use to snail mail information. You need both to be a successful author.

I hear many times how do I start a mailing list? It's a slow process. You start your database/mailing list with your friends and family emails and home addresses. If you belong to any online and off line organizations, add those members to the list. Always remember to get their permission first. You don't want to be accused of spam.

If you belong to online forums or lists, count them as your mailing list too. (Just make sure you know the rules when it comes to posting promotional information. You don't want to get kicked out because you posted wrong.)

This is the beginning of your database/mailing list.

As for where you maintain this list it is up to you. There are different options.

1. Email database from your internet service 2. Database software, such as Access from Microsoft 3. Address books 4. Paid database services I highly recommend having a print copy of your mailing list.

This is your back up, because you never know if your computer will crash or the internet services gets a virus and wipes out your information. You want to maintain your database at least once a month. Delete the obsolete addresses and add new email addresses. You don't want to waste time sending out messages if the email address doesn't exist anymore. http://sormag.com

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EMAIL DATABASE/ADDRESS BOOK

WHY DO YOU NEED A MAILING LIST?

Emailing is a good way to reach your potential fans. • This a great way to introduce potential book buyers It's free which is very important when you are on a to your books.

• Announce your book signings small budget.

• Send out your newsletter (email or snail mail) • Announce reviews of your book DATABASE SOFTWARE • Announce where you have interviews or will be Database software are perfect for snail mail. You can interviewed print out labels of the addresses, saving you time on • Send out excerpts • Do contests hand writing addresses.

• Sale books • Get feedback ADDRESS BOOK • Updates on your writing When you attend book signings, conferences or Building a mailing list takes time. Don't expect this to lectures, take this book with you to get names, address and email address. Don't forget to let them happen in one day. If you have 11 names that's fine. know that you're adding them to your mailing list. Its just the beginning especially if you're an aspiring author.

When you get home, update your data base. The bigger your list the more people you can promote to If you're a published author, you need to work on this and hopefully they will promote for you. Word of area. Don't fret if you don't have a list. It will grow as your fan base grows. mouth makes bestsellers.

This is the beginning of your mailing lists/database. I've been online since 94 and if it wasn't for SORMAG, I'd probably just have 20 names and the You might surprise yourself and have a nice size forums and lists I'm on. mailing list already.

Each day since I created SORMAG, I have worked my email list. You can too. As you grow with your Now you want to know how do I get more names and writing, you will grow with promoting it. addresses? As I said before, slowly, one Remember it's a slow process, however if you work email/mailing address at a time. at it before you know it you're 10 addresses will be The best way to build your list is an opt-in mailing 1000 addresses. 1000 potential book buyers. list. Opt-in means the person chose to join your *SORMAG* mailing list by typing in their email address or sending you their email address. You didn't just add them to your list.

MORE NAMES

With opt-in you know the individual wants to hear from you because they subscribed themselves. http://sormag.com

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What would you like readers to take away from your book?

That's easy. A love if not a fascination for dragons and the possibility that they just might exist. And with luck you'd meet one.

What is your favorite scene from your book?

Hmm...I have more than one: When Draakar returns to earth and lands in the center of the stones. That's actually the scene the bookcover captures, when Maya first sees the dragon's fire in her eyes, and the battle in the sky when Draakar claws the betrayer.

What did you learn while writing this book?

Not sure I learned anything. This book was actually the result of things that I'd already learned about myself and which is why I wrote the book.

I've always been a huge fan of dragon mythology but growing up all the books I'd read either made dragons evil or were about owning a dragon or having a dragon familiar or something of that nature. I felt something was missing and the truth, at least in my world, was somewhere in-between.

First of all I didn't want to own a dragon but be one so I started from that premise and wanted to tell their side of their story. Thus the brethren were born.

LaVerne Thompson is an award winning,

best-selling, multi-published author, an avid reader and a writer of contemporary, fantasy, and sci/fi sensual romances. She also writes romantic suspense under the pen name Ursula Sinclair. She is currently working on several projects.

She has a daughter in her first year of college and a senior in highschool, so technically she has more time to write. Visit her website at http://lavernethompson.com to read excerpts of her books. She's also discovered the world of interactive storytelling and can also be found online at http://rpworldgroup.org as herself.

LaVerne Thompson http://sormag.com

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What was your biggest obstacle in regards to getting published? How did you overcome it?

This book was a long time coming and has undergone many changes. It actually won a writing competition with Romance Slam Jam back in 2008 before I was ever published. But then things happened and I put it down for a long time. I had offers for it but I held back. Meanwhile I continued to publish other work. Then earlier this year I realized what held me back. I've always paid attention to the self-publishing market and as it exploded for authors I began to ask questions of author friends. Who like myself were published with royalty houses, but decided to try the self publishing road. It was due to their encouragement I knew what I had to do. This work was very personal to me and it had to be the work I self published.

Can you hear the dragon's roar?

Over a thousand years ago Draakar was forced to leave Earth, now he has no choice but to return. The dragon lord, whose world teeters on the brink of destruction, must find his truemate.

The one woman with the power and love fated to save them all. The woman he left behind.

Maya Trent was abandoned on Earth, apparently human but so much more and unaware of her dual heritage. Once Draakar awakens her dragon within all she wants to do is kill him. Yet they must work together to save mankind as well as the brethren. But first Draakar has to convince her that the truemate bond between them is real, as is his love for her. She just has to believe in him. http://sormag.com

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

1. The amount of time promoting really takes. You need a plan. I might write less and promote more but knowing me properly not.

2. How all consuming this profession truly is.

3. How much louder those characters in my head would get as they screamed at me to write their stories. lol What is something readers would be surprised you do?

Dance around the house.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 40

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Fantasy Page 29

Writing The Book

Books To Help You Get Started

http://sormag.com

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Anna and Nick are reeling from personal tragedies when they meet in the friendly town of Regina Beach. Nick helps Anna feel safe and comfortable while he gains her trust. Despite his lifechanging injury, Anna inspires Nick to hope for a life he hadn't dared dream possible. Anna must discover if she has the strength to accept his career choice where he will be in danger.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT Moving On: A Prairie Romance

I have just been reading MOVING ON on my Kindle. It's lovely... a gentle, feel-good book with a nice variety of individualized characters and a positive over-all message. The familiar setting was a treat too. Congratulations! I would recommend it. ~~~Mary Balogh, New York Best Seller In “Moving On: A Prairie Romance”, Annette Bower explores the redemptive power of affection. When we meet Nick and Anna, the characters at the centre of the novel, both are reeling from devastating personal tragedies, and both are fearful of making a connection that would open them to future pain. In the course of the novel, Nick and Anna slowly but surely learn to trust and to hope.

Bower’s warm tale of the coming together of her two very likable protagonists is told with a keen eye and an understanding heart. This lake-side romance is perfect summer reading.~~~Gail Bowen, author of the Joanne Kilbourn

Sweet Love in Today’s World Annette Bower www.AnnetteBower.com http://sormag.com

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K.M. Jackson

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

A native New Yorker, K.M. Jackson spent her formative years on the ‘A’ train going from her home in Washington Heights to The Village where she attended high school. On that long ride to study math and science, K.M had two dreams: 1. to be a fashion designer and 2. to be a writer.

After graduating from Stuyvesant High School, K.M. studied fashion design at The Fashion Institute ofTechnology aka FIT. She then spent ten years designing for various fashion houses. But after having twins and juggling that and fashion, K.M. took the leap of faith and decided to pursue her other dream of being a writer. Her debut novel THROUGH THE LENS was released in September of 2012.

My main goal with all my books is that the reader comes away with a satisfying reading experience. That’s what I hope for as a reader myself. I want to come away happy and somehow emotionally uplifted, so it’s what I hope to achieve in my own work. But of course I’d like to put the characters and the readers through a good bit angst before we all get to that fantastic payoff moment in the end. In Through The Lens I also hope the readers the readers take away from the book a spirit of you are perfect just as you are. Too often as women we beat ourselves up by unnecessarily striving for an almost unobtainable beauty when that beauty we’re seeking was right there all the time, but we were just overlooking it.

What is your favorite scene from your book?

My favorite scene from Through The Lens is the first kiss. I think it’s a surprising scene for both my hero and heroine and takes them both off guard.

They are left not quite knowing how to react and while my hero, Alejandro, gives in to it, my heroine, Mika, gives in at first and then fights against what she really wants to poor Ale’s detriment. I think it’s pretty funny as well as sexy.

She currently lives in a suburb of New York City with her husband, teen twins, and a precocious terrier named Jack that keeps her on her toes. http://sormag.com

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Romance Page 32

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned that when I censor myself less the results are so much more honest and satisfying. I’m so thrilled with the emotional reactions I’ve been getting from this book. To me that’s the best reward.

What was your biggest obstacle in regards to getting published? How did you overcome it?

I would say that my biggest obstacle was finding a publisher that got and understood my voice as well as my vision for my stories. After many years of close calls and near misses I finally found that in Crimson Romance. So much so that they have asked for two more books in my Creative Hearts series to follow up Through The Lens!

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

Oh there are so many. I think the first is I wish I knew how long it would take. But then again if I had known that I may have bowed out before I even began the journey so it’s better that I didn’t know that bit of info.

LOL. The second thing would be going back to my earlier point on censoring. I have spent way too much time second guessing my words even before they make it to the page.

I now think it’s best to just let them all out.

Better to worry about the editing later.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 41 http://sormag.com

Mika Walters is a normal woman working in the not so normal world of New York Fashion. As long time assistant to sexy photographer Alejandro Vargas she’s tired of being the girl in the background. Just once she wants Alejandro to look at her with the same smoldering look he gives his models and now she has her chance.

After a travel mishap where the rest of the crew and the models can’t make the remote location shoot for another three days Mika is taking her moment to catch Alejandro’s eye and put herself in front ofAlejandro’s camera… at least until the real world catches up with them.

Alejandro doesn’t know what’s gotten into Mika maybe it’s the sand, maybe it’s the sun, he doesn’t really care. All he knows is that he’s finally opened his eyes and is seeing her clearly for the first time as the smart, gorgeous and incredibly irresistible woman she is.

But why can’t she realize that what he’s feeling for her is not one of his usual one, well, three night stands? What’s it going to take for him to prove to Mika that she’s the woman he wants? Now and forever.

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Celebrating Black History Month In terms of Black History that is something I celebrate every day by hopefully being someone to motivate the younger generation to focus and fight for their dreams.

And of course, if asked to participate in events celebrating Black History month--such as this interview--I am always on board to support. Having a month to officially celebrate our history is a wonderful reminder for the world to check in and get informed.

We have a very rich history that is so worthy of being celebrated and shared three hundred and sixty five days of the year. -- Meesha Mink As for Black History Month it is a big deal in our house as my children share a birthday with Dr. Martin Luther King.

There is always an opportunity to discuss how far we as a people have come, even during a children’s bowling birthday party! -- K.M. Jackson

As far as Black History Month, I’ve always made sure my children are well aware of a hero that is very close to home, my father, who passed at the age of 35. He was the first African-American Fire Chief in the state of Georgia back in the 80’s. He was a very well respected member of the community and his passing was mourned by many of various races. Even to this day, twenty-seven years later, if you go to my home town of Griffin, Georgia and mention the name, Warren Kelly, many still remember him and sing his praises. -- M.J. Kane

The past couple years I’ve done nothing specific but in 2013, I plan to promote Black History Month by hosting an online group discussion of the mini-series, Roots. I’ll ask everyone who signs up to purchase (or rent) a copy of the mini-series and then I’ll host discussions following each episode. Many people have never seen this history-making miniseries and others haven’t seen it since its debut in the mid-70s. I think Black History Month will be a perfect time to review this history.

More details to coming in December @ LutishiaLovely.com.

http://sormag.com

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Your perfect relationship, yeah the one that you thought would never go wrong. Even if your relationship is strong and perfect, you can still break up. Things can go wrong in a blink of an eye, Phoenix found this out the hard way. Phoenix Brown has been dealt a bad hand in life. Born in Cleveland, Ohio to an absentee father and drug-addicted mother, Phoenix learned at a young age the meaning of survival. She witnessed her brother’s life taken at the hands of a local drug dealer and also how the streets took over her mother’s life. Phoenix was determined that her past would not predict her future. After graduating high school she enrolled in college, where she met and married the love of her life. However, she did not encounter the marital bliss she had hoped for when she learned of her husband’s indiscretions with a love child on the way. Devastated by the news, Phoenix’s self-esteem is completely down. Not ready to give up on her marriage, Phoenix takes matters into her own hands, by confronting her husband at work with regards to his selfish decisions about love, life and marriage.

One wrong turn lands Phoenix in the one place she could never imagine being…in jail.

Available in paperback andbyeBook UNEXPECTED TRUTH Makenzi Available in paperback and eBook

http://authormakenzi.blogspot.com/

SORMAG Eblast

Are you ready to introduce your book to multi-cultural readers?

SORMAG Eblasts is the way to meet these book readers.

Each week SORMAG features newsletters and individual eblasts that highlights the hottest books on the shelf.

You can be a part of our eblasts. We have something for every budget.

Check us out TODAY – http://sormag.com/advertise.htm Let us introduce you to our readers. http://sormag.com

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M.K. Kane

M.J. Kane stumbled into writing. An avid reader, this stay at home mom never lost the overactive imagination of an only child. As an adult she made up stories, though never shared them, to keep herself entertained. It wasn’t until surviving a traumatic medical incident in 2006 that she found a reason to let the characters inhabiting her imagination free.

Upon the suggestion of her husband, she commandeered his laptop and allowed the characters to take life. It was that, or look over her shoulder for men caring a purple strait jacket. And the rest, as they say, is history.

readers and other authors. Other activities she enjoys include: creating custom floral arrangements, assisting her children in their creative pursuits of music and art, and supporting her husband’s music production business, 3D Sounds.

No longer a television addict, if M.J. isn’t reading a book by one of her favorite authors, she’s battling with her creative muse to balance writing and being a wife and mother. She resides in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia with her high school sweetheart, four wonderful children, and two pit bulls. MJ can often be found hanging out at the local library where she is director of a local writer’s group, or online connecting with

I want my readers to appreciate the beauty of love found in any form, no matter what race. I want people to realize the decisions we make, even when we think keeping it a secret, can still affect those around us. I also want them to learn no matter how strong we think we are we can never expect to survive alone. Friends, family, and loved ones are what we need to keep our sanity and make it through the tough times.

http://sormag.com

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

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What is your favorite scene from your book?

Hmm, that’s a tough one! I’d have to say the first time Ebony and Brian have a real conversation, it’s in Chapter 3, after they’ve met at the club under dim lights and the fake façade of putting their best foot forward.

They are both in work gear, she’s wearing no makeup, he’s hot and sweaty, yet the attraction is still there. All real…no fake, and since this is an Interracial romance, she gives Brian a run for his money!

What did you learn while writing this book?

Ebony is a smart, sexy, career-oriented black woman who wants nothing more than a summer fling with a man who challenges her mind and body. What she doesn’t expect is a blond haired, blueeyed bass player—who won’t take “no” for an answer—to accept the challenge.

When Ebony’s attempt at a brief fling turns into more, despite negative reactions from friends and family, she finds juggling love, family, and career are nothing compared to the ultimate betrayal she endures. Now her dreams spiral into lies and secrets that threaten her future and her best friend’s trust.

Romance http://sormag.com

That I have a talent for storytelling I never knew existed. When I am determined to see a project through, I will do everything in my power to make it happen, despite being tired, ill, or distracted by life’s trials. I also learned to appreciate my immediate family’s support in an endeavor I thought they would never be unable to understand. Like my heroine, Ebony, I’ve learned keeping things to myself and underestimating the response of the ones I love is never to be mistaken!

What was your biggest obstacle in regards to getting published? How did you overcome it?

Being pigeon-hold because I am an AfricanAmerican author. For some reason, the publishing world seems to think our stories are only to be told one way, as if we only can write about certain subjects: hood life, Church, or sex. That’s not true.

My genre is Interracial Romance, Contemporary Romance, and Women’s Fiction. I tackle life issues that affect women regardless of their racial or monetary status. I came from a Middle class family, CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

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Businesses Helping Writers EDITORS Allyson M. Deese - Copy Editor www.bountifullyblessedpublishing.webs.com Andrea Jackson – Content Editor, Copy Editor Fiction jackson.4andrea@yahoo.com Cindy Matthews – Copy Editor http://momsday.blogspot.com/p/editorialservices.html Deatri King-Bey - Developmental Editor Genre(s): General Fiction and Genre fiction (except historical and present tense titles) Point ofView: Unlimited and Limited expert Website: http://www.becomeasuccessfulauthor.com/editi ng-service/ Deesha Philyaw – Content Editor, Copy Editor thelastwordllc.com deeshaphilyaw@gmail.com Erica George – Line Editing bkworm8503@yahoo.com Felecia Killings – Content Editor, Developmental Editor Genre: Christian writers http://pflpublishing-powerfaithlove.weebly.com Jaime L. Lincoln – Copy Editor Genre (s) All genres jaime_lincoln@yahoo.com

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Jessica Tilles - Copy Editor www.twasolutions.com jessica@twasolutions.com Joy Eckel - Copy Editor Genre (s) all genres except poetry joyeckel@yahoo.com J.R. Scott – Copy Editor Genre (s) Non-fiction writing, business writing, collegiate writing (papers, thesis, etc) All types of fiction with the exception of Urban Fiction www.rasilliantenterprises.com Lauren Baratz-Logsted - Copy Editor any kind of fiction for all age groups and many areas of nonfiction www.laurenbaratzlogsted.com glogsted@aol.com Lorraine Elzia – Content Developmental Editor all genres from religious to erotica. www.lorraineelzia.com lorraineszone@gmail.com

Editor,

Maurice M. Gray, Jr – Content Editor, Copy Editor, Developmental Editor Christian fiction and nonfiction, mystery, science fiction, mainstream fiction and mainstream nonfiction no erotica or pornography writevision2000@yahoo.com www.mauricemgrayjr.com Maxine Thompson – Content Editor, Developmental Editor Genre(s): Christian Fiction to Urban Fiction and street lit http://www.maxinethompson.com

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Book covers info@nayberrypublications.com Owner, Shani Dowdell

Patricia Woodside - Copy Editor, Developmental Editor, Line Editing pwriter1@yahoo.com Rhonda Jackson Joseph – Content Editor, Line Editing Genre(s) All genres, as well as non-fiction works. Mostly in the romance and horror genres. rjacksonjoseph@gmail.com Robin Caldwell - Copy Editor, Substantive editor http://thejstandard.com

Graphic designer Bountifully Blessed Publishing Services Freelance Virtual Assistant Owner, Allyson M. Deese SORMAG Eblasts - Book Promotion http://sormag.com/advertise.htm Owner, LaShaunda C. Hoffman HELPING TO PROMOTE AUTHORS RAWSISTAZ http://www.rawsistaz.com/

Shani Dowdell - Copy Editor fiction books and poetry info@nayberrypublications.com Shonell Bacon - Copy Editor fiction and non-fiction; genres include romance, ya, sci-fi, fantasy, urban, street, Christian, literary, etc. Non-fiction, academic works (articles for journals in MLA and APA), memoirs, and essays.

CLG Entertainment, http://www.clgentertainment sdb6812@hotmail.com

APOOO BOOK CLUB http://www.apooobooks.com/ Black Authors Network Literary Talk Show http://www.blogtalkradio.com/black-author-network Write The Vision Radio Show http://www.blogtalkradio.com/write-the-vision African American Literary Book Club http://aalbc.com/

Vanessa Madden - Copy Editor fiction and non-fiction works with the exception EDC Creations http://www.edc-creations.com/ of erotica www.vanessamadden.blogspot.com Nia Promotions http://www.niapromotions.com/ BUSINESSES All The Buzz http://allthebuzzreviews.com/ WNL Virtual Blog Tours http://writenowlit.blogspot.com/ Ty Webbin Creations Owner, Paulette Harper Johnson http://tywebbincreations.com/ Worth More than Rubies Productions Do you have a business that helps authors. Send Book Trailers, Websites, and Blogs info to: 1SORMAG@gmail.com Owner, Evangelist Cheryl Lacey Donovan http://sormag.com

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KIMBERLA ROBY's INTERVIEW CONTINUE FROM PAGE 11 When you’re not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

When I'm not writing, I enjoy spending time with my husband, talking to family and friends and watching marathon rerun episodes of Law & Order, Law & Order SVU, and Snapped. Also, my two prime time favorites for new-episode shows are Law & Order SVU and Scandal.

MEESHA MINK's INTERVIEW CONTINUE FROM PAGE 17 2) That family and friends will not understand the life of a writer. Solitude is a necessity to write and to even think about what you want to write; and 3) That there any many steps to seeing a book published than just writing the book.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

The readers may be surprised that if I go into a bookstore I make sure all of my books are facing forward and neatly arranged. Also, if I see someone Readers can email me at kim@kimroby.com, visit checking out one of my books I ask them what they think about the writer but never reveal who I am. my web site at www.kimroby.com, join my Facebook - www.facebook.com/kimberlalawsonroby Love that. or follow me on Twitter at @KimberlaLRoby.

When you’re not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time? *SORMAG* How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

LAVERNE THOMPSON CONTINUE FROM PAGE When you’re not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

Read, shop, spend time with my family.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

In my spare time I like to read. My love of writing came from my love of reading and that's something I make sure to stay connected to. Right now I am just waiting for enough free time to devour the new book in the Tennyson Hardwick series by Tananarive Due, Stephen Barnes, and Blair Underwood.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

http://facebook.com/colorofloveauthors

Readers can reach me via Email (meesha.mink@yahoo.com), Twitter (www.twitter.com/infiniteink) or my Facebook Fan Page (Niobia Bryant | Meesha Mink). My website is http://www.meeshamink.com/.

http://rpworldgroup.org

*SORMAG*

http://lavernethompson.com

isisindc@msn.com *SORMAG*

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K.M. JACKSON's INTERVIEW CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33 In that first draft be as real and as raw as you can and your work will be better for it.

Thirdly, your first draft is just that, the first. If you are me, it’s not the best and there will be plenty more and that is just fine. A good editor and critique partner can be a great friend.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

Surprised? I’m pretty much an open book since I chat way too much on twitter so there aren’t that many surprises where I’m concerned. But I am a pretty decent sock knitter. That may come as a surprise to some and a good hand knitted wool sock is the absolute best thing on a cold winter’s day.

When you’re not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

I love going to the movies. To me the second best thing to a great book is a good movie. My books play like movie scenes in my head as I’m writing them. I often think if I wasn’t a writer I’d have been a movie director. I even go so far as to cast my hero, heroine and minor characters for my books as I’m writing them.

My idea of a fantastic date night is casual dinner and a movie, but honestly, I don’t even have to have a date to enjoy a good movie. When my children were younger, every few months, I’d treat myself to a little movie getaway as a mom escape. And I’ll let you in on a secret—I was not the only mother in the theatre on a Tuesday afternoon.

The Ultimate Book Club Experience: How to Create & Maintain a Successful Book Club by TaNisha Webb Is a complete book club resource guide created to help take the ‘guess work’ out of creating and maintaining a book club.

The Ultimate Book Club Experience is designed to prepare future book club presidents as they go through the steps of creating a book club, along with offering established book club presidents the information they need to help enhance their book club experience.

Each chapter describes essential book club components, along with providing critical thinking exercises to help you create a strategic book club plan that will put you on the path to creating the book club that you want with the information that you need.

Creating & maintaining a book club just got so much easier!

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How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

Readers can get in touch with me the following ways:

1) Becoming a published author and a Bestseller mean you have no time to sleep if you want to keep that spot!

Via my website at www.kwana.com On twitter at: https://twitter.com/KwanaWrites On Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/KmJacksonAuthor Email me at: kwanawrites@yahoo.com Thank you so much for having me here at SORMAG, LaShaunda. What an honor and Happy Black History month to everyone.

All the best, K.M. Jackson *SORMAG*

M. K. KANE's INTERVIEW CONTINUE FROM PAGE 37 so I write what I know. There are no super rich characters coming to the ‘rescue’ of the poor lower class character. My characters are like you, me, and the neighbor next door. My focus is on topics we all have either experienced, or know someone else to have lived it, and focus on how they have either improved or learned from the mistakes of their past.

In the end, I didn’t listen to the agent who was determined I tone my story down in order to submit to a typical publisher. I stuck to the story I wanted to tell and eventually found a publisher who was willing to take a chance on a newbie who was unwilling to get stuck in a mold. And based on the fact, A Heart Not Easily Broken broke into the Amazon Multicultural Bestseller list hours after publication and has been there ever since, I think they are happy! It is also on the African-American Literature & Fiction list as well!

http://sormag.com

2)Promotions never stop! Ever!

3)Continuing to write while balancing family, promotions, and personal time is not easy!

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I survived a stroke in 2006 that nearly killed me. I was paralyzed on the right side of my body for several days, but able to walk out of the hospital (with assistance). Since then, I have made a very strong recovery. My experience has taught me about the fragility of life and the need to seize every chance to make more of myself as I can. I was once an avid reader, now, I am a writer!

When you’re not writing, what do you like to do in your spare time?

LOL, I can’t say that I have spare time anymore! If I’m not taking care of family responsibilities (my husband, four kids, and several dogs!), and have been pulled away from my laptop, I like to watch my favorite TV shows, read, or play The Sims…something I haven’t done since my book was published!

How can readers get in contact with you?

I love to meet and chat with readers and fellow writers! You can find me on the following sites: https://www.facebook.com/MJButterflyBooks https://twitter.com/MJKaneBooks http://thiswriterslife-mjkane.blogspot.com/ thebutterflymemoirs@yahoo.com *SORMAG*

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Check out our rates and feature your books or business in our next issue http://conta.cc/VBY9zS

NEXT ISSUE - RESOURCES ON THE NET ONLINE MARCH 15th Tell us what you think about SORMAG for a chance to win a $10.00 amazon gift card 1sormag@gmail.com

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SORMAG Digital - JAN/FEB 13

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TEACH ME - IRIS BOLLING Gents & Gems - Book One

The Lassiter family consists of six precious gems and six true gentlemen. They are all blessed with good looks, charm, and a wonderful sense of self-worth. They know who they are and who they want.

Child number five, sexy, confident and fiercely loyal, Diamond Lassiter made her choice. She did not save herself for anyone less than a real man to teach her how to make love. When she met Zackary Davenport, there was no question in her mind, he was the one.

With arson connected to his last project, the only mission on Zackary Davenport’s mind was ensuring the new home development progressed without a hitch.

Working against him was an unknown force that was out to destroy his name. The last thing on his mind was any woman that was after his heart. To that end Diamond Lassiter was trouble, and he knew it.

Revenge, family secrets and love will keep you engrossed as you wonder whose willpower will prevail.

IRIS BOLLING Romance Author http://www.irisbolling.net/ http://sormag.com

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In Memory In the past few weeks we've lossed two literary sisters, Monica Harris Mindolovich and Sarah Rachel Berry.

Monica Harris Mindolovich entered my life when she introduced the world to Arabesque books a line for African-American romances. She was the editor for the line.

Monica Harris Mindolovich launched many AA romance writers careers. I had the honor of meeting her at Slam Jam and we became online friends. She was a dear friend to SORMAG and always volunteered her services to help with the online conference and even taught a workshop for SORMAG. I'm truly grateful Kensington asked her to head up the Arabesque line, ifshe hadn't there wouldn't be a SORMAG. So thank you Monica for helping inspire SORMAG. I met Sarah Rachel Berry when I did an interview with her. She was excited about her new book and I enjoyed talking with her. When I put out a request for a columnist, she stepped up and there began our online friendship. The last time we talked she was talking about a new book she was working on and few other things she wanted to do.

I will miss these two ladies, they touched many lives and left a legacy with the work they leave behind.

SORMAG sends our deepest sympathy to the families, friends and fans ofMonica and Sarah. LCH - SORMAG

Monica Harris Mindolovich http://sormag.com

Sarah Rachel Berry

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Expiration Date: March 31, 2013