INTELLECTUAL INK ISSUE 20

Intellectual Ink Editor in Chief

Julia Press Simmons

Creative Director

Charlotte Young-Foye

Advice Columnist

Coach Coco

Arts & Entertainment Opinion Columnist

Haikeem Stokes Erick S. Gray

Book Reviews

Diane P. Rembert

Graphic Design

Lamont Press

Flash Fiction ~ Contemporary

Braheim Gibbs

Health & Wellness

Phoenix C. Brown, Shonda Mayes

Events

Author Untamed

Activist

Author Obsession

Cultural

Karen E. Quinones Miller

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ISSN ~ PRINT 2833-7255 ISBN: 9798361431304 Julia Press Simmons ~ Julia@IntellectualInk.com Charlotte's Closet ~ Charlotte@IntellectualInk.com Haikeem Stokes ~ Haikeem@IntellectualInk.com Diamond Literary Reviews ~ DLR@IntellectualInk.com Erick S. Gray ~ Erick@IntellectualInk.com Karen E. Quinones Miller ~ Karen@IntellectualInk.com Submissions ~ Submit@IntellectualInk.com PHILADELPHIA, PA. INTELLECTUALINK.COM

Editors' note Issue 20 Welcome back to the nineties! This decade was full of amazing fashion, music, and books that gave voice to our culture. We’ve decided to take a trip down memory lane and bring you some of our favorite moments from this unforgettable decade. Issue 20 features Takerra Allen, author, director, executive producer, and one-half of ASP films. We discuss her writing journey from "Heaven's Hell to "Last Stop from Innocence".

As always, we've got our regular features: Charlotte's Young-Foye and Shonda Mays take us back down memory lane with "Old School Forever" and Growing Up in the 90s." Erick S. Gray talks about the backlash from the new Little Mermaid. Haikeem Stokes takes us to Kendrick Lamar's "Big Stepper's Tour," and Author Untamed invites you to "Wine Down with Words." In Write News, we have Tanisha Stewart, and Who's Next features Violette Meier, Kim Morris, and Yasmin S. Brown.

Grab a pumpkin spice late and take a ride with us as we go back... way back...

Back to the 90s!

Julia Press Simmons EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Charlotte Young Foye CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Contents 2. EDITOR'S NOTE 5. GROWING UP IN THE 90'S ~ SHONDA MAYES 10. WRITE NEWS ~ TANISHA STEWART 14. EVENT ~WINE DOWN WITH WORDS 20. A&R ~ “THE BIG STEPPERS TOUR”, STARRING KENDRICK LAMAR 31. BOOK REVIEW ~ SEASON'S OF FIDELITY (SEASON TWO) 33. CHARLOTTE'S CLOSET ~THE 90'S A DECADE THAT MOLDED MUVA INTO THE WOMAN I AM TODAY 37. SUPPORT THE SOURCE ~ SOURCE OF KNOWLEDGEBLACK RESERVE BOOKSTORE

24.TAKERRA ALLEN A CONVERSATION ABOUT HER WRITING JOURNEY FROM "HEAVEN'S HELL" TO THE "LAST STOP FROM INNOCENCE"

41. OPINION ~ BACKLASH FOR THE NEW LITTLE MERMAID 46. FLASH FICTION ~ DIVORCE 51. WHO'S NEXT ~ VIOLETTE MEIER, KIM MORRIS, & YASMIN S. BROWN

BACKOF TO THE 90'S BOOK THE MONTH

NOMINATED AS ONE OF AMERICA’S BEST-LOVED NOVELS BY PBS’S THE GREAT AMERICAN READ RENOWNED HIP-HOP ARTIST, POLITICAL ACTIVIST, AND BESTSELLING AUTHOR SISTER SOULJAH BRINGS THE STREETS OF NEW YORK TO LIFE IN A POWERFUL AND UTTERLY UNFORGETTABLE FIRST NOVEL. I came busting into the world during one of New York's worst snowstorms, so my mother named me Winter. Ghetto-born, Winter is the young, wealthy daughter of a prominent Brooklyn drug-dealing family. Quick-witted, sexy, and businessminded, she knows and loves the streets like the curves of her own body. But when a cold Winter wind blows her life in a direction she doesn't want to go, her street smarts and seductive skills are put to the test of a lifetime. Unwilling to lose, this ghetto girl will do anything to stay on top.

I've read this book twice and I'm deeply impressed by the superb quality of the writing used by Sista Souljah. Winter is a well crafted charter she's complex and very deeply entrenched in her pursuit of the superficial without really ever realising her extreme intelligence was put to destructive rather than constructive means - Only in the end does she realise she has the potiential to do anything. Which the point of the story the waste of a brilliant mind is a terrible thing.

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GROWING UP IN THE 90'S by shonda mayes

I’m an 80s baby who grew up in the 90s, so much of my life was shaped by that era. We had the best tv shows like the iconic A Different World, The Cosby Show, Martin, and Living Single.

And, in my opinion, some of the best music came out in the 90s, too. It was an all-around vibe!

The summers seemed longer and being outside with your friends until the streetlights came on was the thing to do. Life just hit differently back then and I often long for that feeling that the 90s brought with it.

The music I grew up listening to provides the soundtrack for some of my fondest memories.

My best friends and I watched music videos on BET and MTV checking for our favorite singers and emulating their styles. You couldn’t tell us anything with our weave ponytails we rolled and heated in the microwave before slicking them up in pin-curl perfection inspired by favorites like Mary J. Blige. We’d chill outside for hours listening to everything from Biggie and Tupac to Adina Howard and TLC. The memories!!!

One of my favorite ways to unwind and enjoy some me time is with my favorite 90s playlist.

From taking a drive to clear my mind with the windows rolled down and the radio blasting to taking a candle-lit bubble bath with smooth R & B playing, music has always been a way of escape for me. I listen to a variety of music from all decades, but nothing hits harder for me than music from the 90s. I love going on a stroll down memory lane listening to my favorite songs and reminiscing over life.

So in the spirit of the oh-so-cool 90s vibe and self-care, I’m sharing some of my favorite 90s songs I listen to when I need a pick me up or just when I want to vibe out and chill!

Ten of my favorite 90s Songs: Why I Love You So Much by Monica- This song takes me back to my first crush. It’s a classic love song and no 90s R&B playlist is complete without this one.

Freak’n You by Jodeci-Now if I am telling the truth, I was probably a little too young to be thinking about freak’n anybody, but that didn’t stop me from having this song on repeat when I was growing up. Even now, If I want to set the mood, this song is definitely on the list.

Weak by SWV-Now this song right here takes me back to the days when I just knew I was destined to be a part of an R&B girl group. My friends and I would sing this song all the time and we thought we were the next big thing. The gag is I can’t carry a tune in a bucket, but that didn’t stop me from trying to hit them notes Coko hit!

Keep Ya’ Head Up by Tupac- Pac will always be one of my favorites and so will this song.

When life be life’n, is one of my go-to songs for a quick pick me up and a reminder to keep going.

Jump by Kriss Kross-When this song came out, I fell in love with these boys.

They were both cute and became instant crushes. I also went to their concert in Norfolk, VA which was the very first concert I’d ever attended.

Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince-Now baby! Summer doesn’t officially start until this song comes on the radio. As a matter of fact, if you don’t play this at your cookout, I don’t want to come. This song is the signal that summer has officially begun and is guaranteed to get the cookout dance party started.

I’m Your Baby Tonight by Whitney Houston-Whitney will always be my favorite singer and she lives on my playlist! When this song came out, I saw her in the video and wanted to be her.

Juicy by The Notorious BIG- Whenever this song comes on you can catch me rapping the lyrics as if I was Biggie himself. This song always puts me in a good mood.

I Can’t Stand the Rain by Missy Misdemeanor Elliot- Being that I’m from the 757, there is no way my list could not include Missy! She represents my hometown, and this song always gets me hype!

It Was a Good Day by Ice Cube-I couldn’t leave the West Coast off this list! This is one of my all-time favorite Cube songs.

I love riding out with this one blasting and my sunroof open.

This list definitely isn’t all-inclusive and is in no particular order. These are just a few of my favorite 90s songs that spark that nostalgic feeling of growing up. The 90s was definitely a great time to be alive for many reasons! What are some of your favorite 90s jams?

INTELLECTUAL INK MAGAZINE

instagram.com/shondamayes/ facebook.com/Shonda.Mayes

BOOK BOOKOF OFTHE THEMONTH MONTH

HOW STELLA GOT HER GROOVE BACK IS FULL OF TERRY MCMILLAN'S SIGNATURE HUMOR, HEART, AND INSIGHT. MORE THAN A LOVE STORY, IT IS ULTIMATELY A NOVEL ABOUT HOW A WOMAN SAVES HER OWN LIFE—AND WHAT SHE MUST RISK TO DO IT. Stella Payne is forty-two, divorced, a high-powered investment analyst, mother of eleven-year-old Quincy- and she does it all. In fact, if she doesn't do it, it doesn't get done, from Little League carpool duty to analyzing portfolios to folding the laundry and bringing home the bacon.

She does it all well, too, if her chic house, personal trainer, BMW, and her loving son are any indication. So what if there's been no one to share her bed with lately, let alone rock her world? Stella doesn't mind it too much; she probably wouldn't have the energy for love—and all of love's nasty fallout—anyway.

But when Stella takes a spur-of-themoment vacation to Jamaica, her world gets rocked to the core—not just by the relaxing effects of the sun and sea and an island full of attractive men, but by one man in particular. He's tall, lean, softspoken, Jamaican, smells of citrus and the ocean—and is half her age. The tropics have cast their spell and Stella soon realizes she has come to a cataclysmic juncture: not only must she confront her hopes and fears about love, she must question all of her expectations, passions, and ideas about life and the way she has lived it.

Fans of Terry MacMillan will enjoy the flavor, pace, characters, and storyline. How Stella Got Her Groove Back is a feel-good story of a professional single mother who gives everything to her son, career, and family. She takes a well-deserved vacation and meets the man of her dreams. She is busy, tired, and not looking for love. When she gives love a chance, the younger man serves her like a queen. There are a few sad moments and some grief., but we get to see an older mature woman learn to live life fuller, love again, and in the end, her story gives hope to others in similar positions—one of my favorite books.

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WRITE NEWS

AUTHOR TANISHA STEWART Can you tell us about your writing journey? Has anything in your routine or writing style changed from "Even Me," to "The Enemy You Know?"

I've gone through many changes in my writing style since my first published book, Even Me. I strive to get better with every release, so I am always looking for ways to improve my storylines, plot, character development, descriptions, etc. One major change I went through since publishing Even Me was that I became a rapid-release author.

With my first two books, I thought releasing a book a year would be the standard.

As I learned more about the indie author industry, I realized that readers wanted more. From this, I began publishing more frequently, to the point where I am releasing roughly 10-11 books a year.

Another change I experienced was with playing with different genres. I write in a number of different genres, including Christian fiction, non-fiction, YA, thrillers, urban, and romance.

I don't necessarily have a set routine when writing my stories because inspiration hits at different times.

Which book in your catalog was the hardest to write, and what was the easiest?

I wouldn't say that any of my books were necessarily hard or easy to write, but I will say that the book I was least confident about was Everybody Ain't Your Friend, and the book that felt like it had the smoothest flow was Janie & E: Life Lessons.

5.0 out of 5 stars Well Done, Ms Stewart Loved it! Full of dysfunctional characters and light suspense, this book had me riveted

5.0 out of 5 stars What a Whirl!

5.0 out of 5 stars Unexpected!

This Book Right Here!

I had planned to read it leisurely over three or four days, but as always with this author, I couldn’t put it down.

From the title I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised!! The twist was great, you got me every time!

It turned out that Everybody Ain't Your Friend became my highest-selling book to date, and while the people who read Janie & E loved it, the book is not high ranking in terms of sales. This goes to show that you never know which books will be successful!

Are the characters inspired or based on real-life people?

I would say they are a mixture of both. I have never based a character solely on one person but I have drawn from multiple reallife experiences with every character I create.

You are also a writing coach, editor, and ghostwriter, how do you balance your projects with your clients?

I try to keep my schedule as flexible as possible and divide work into manageable chunks.

How does one become a client?

To become a client, an author or aspiring author can email me at tanishastewart.author@gmail.com, inbox me on my Facebook page, Tanisha Stewart, Author, or DM me on Instagram at tanishastewart_author.

Any advice for aspiring writers?

My main advice is to keep writing!

Many people have a book or books inside them, but they are afraid to move forward. If aspiring authors need help developing their stories or characters, they can contact me and enroll in my author coaching program!

What's next for you, and where can readers find your work?

What's next for me is diversifying my pen names. My thrillers will remain under Tanisha Stewart, and I am launching a brand new pen name for all of my other genres.

First up are Christian Fiction and nonfiction. The new pen name is Neesh Santiago, and I am also releasing Christian/Gospel hip hop/rap and spoken word under this name. Learn more about my thrillers by subscribing to my email list at tanishastewartauthor.com/contact, and learn more about my Christian Fiction/nonfiction by subscribing to my email list at neeshsantiago.com/subscribe.

All of my work is available on Amazon and available in ebook and paperback formats, and I even have hardcovers and audible books too!

For thrillers, check out the first book of my Quiet Ones series for free: Should Have Thought Twice For Christian fiction, check out Neesh Santiago's debut novel (coming soon): Pray for Me

Tanisha Stewart (@tanishastewart_author) Tanisha Stewart, Author | Facebook

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BY AUTHOR UNTAMED Although fall is coming and book events are winding down, you can always create your own event. Niko Michelle and Untamed did just that with their intimate author showcase and book signing event, Wine Down with Words.

Authors and Augusta natives, Niko Michelle and Untamed held their intimate event on Wednesday, August 31, 2022, from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at TASTE wine room in Augusta, GA. The affair boasted a cozy and ambient experience filled with delicacies and, of course, plenty of wine.

Hosted by moderator Pam Oliphant, the authors engaged the guests with a Who’s Who trivia icebreaker, questions and answers about their experience and expertise in the literary industry, live readings from their books, and giveaways.

Being film producers as well as authors, they candidly discussed their journey into the film industry with a fun game of two lies and one truth about the hilarity that happens on film sets.

Special guests included lyrical phenom, rapper Uni Verse and extras actors from the recently released film, Trap Soldiers.

The night ended with several book purchases, signings, pictures, and guests won gift cards, free books, and one lucky winner won an Apple Watch!

Take note authors. If the events are winding down, bring the event to you!

The fun doesn’t end there. As a sponsored giveaway surprise and in honor of this issue’s 90s theme, I am giving away books 1 and 2 of my Never Again, No More series to one lucky winner who answers these three questions correctly. Email your answers to: untamed@intellectualink.com

Author Untamed

1. What’s the best era in history?

2. Name the 90s R&B singer who recently passed and whose hit song, You, is one of my favorites.

3. Name the chart-topping female artist who won 5 Grammys for her 1998 album and whose music influence is mentioned in Takerra Allen’s book, Last Stop from Innocence.

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Author Untamed Back to The ...

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BACKOF TO THE 90'S BOOK THE MONTH

SATIN DOLL IS A WITTY, INSIGHTFUL, HEARTBREAKING AND HONEST TALE ABOUT ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS, FRIENDSHIPS, AND CLASS DISTINCTIONS. Bang! Being shot in the middle of the night and left for dead is what it took to open her eyes. Until that fateful moment, Regina Harris lived la vida loca with pimps and hustlers, a gangster lifestyle that supplied the money she needed to get high and forget the poverty of Harlem. Now she has turned her life around, is a college graduate and freelance journalist, and makes enough money to live on the Upper West Side and hob- nob with the city's movers and On a night out partying with her homegirls in shakers. She's become the classy Satin Doll of the Duke Ellington song. But she Harlem, Regina meets aspiring lawyer Charles Whitfield, son of a pro-minent, upper-class can't forget where she came from: her black family in Philadelphia. He loves her but three best friends are from the old not her rough-around-the-edges friends. She neighborhood. loves him but doesn't think she can live up to The Harlem homegirls. Regina tries to his family's expectations. give emotional support to each of her Regina tries desperately to hide her former life, friends as they deal with their own but when her past is revealed, it threatens to personal issues: Yvonne is a single destroy her relationship with Charles and the mother looking for the right man. life she has worked hard to create.

Tamika must raise two children alone while their father does time in jail for robbery. Puddin' lives her life by picking From its dramatic beginning to the fateful ending, Satin Doll is a witty and truthful take up men and smoking weed. on relationships, friendships, and class Living in two worlds; comfortable in distinctions. neither.

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A GOOD KID BRINGS HIS TOUR TO MAD CITIES “THE BIG STEPPERS TOUR”, STARRING KENDRICK LAMAR

BY HAIKEEM STOKES

This fourth studio album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers, Kendrick Lamar is due a plethora of accolades. With songs like The Heart Part 5, N95, and Savior just to name a few, this is yet another classic by this young lyrical lion. His previous full-length albums include Good Kid M.A.A.D. City, To Pimp A Butterfly, and DAMN. To skip either of these works or any of his songs are a travesty.

Be proactive.

The arena, filled to capacity; the crowd chants the headliner's name in anxious anticipation before retreating to an excited murmur. The show isn’t scheduled to begin until 7 p.m., but with five minutes to spare, these passionate fans are ready to explode. T-minus 10 seconds to go, the house lights go black, the audience roars, and the colossal screens on either side of the stage illuminate with the name, Tanna Leone.

This emphatic performer hailing from Los Angeles, California kicks off the show with a 3-song set that keeps the crowd bouncing from start to finish. His full-length album, Sleepy Soldier, is quickly rising up the charts as he is definitely one to watch. Leone’s tracks: Picasso, Here We Go Again, and With the Villains are the perfect spark to light this wick.

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@asophilabooks Haikeem Stokes | Facebook

Next up, Baby Keem, who has already made quite a name for himself in the 15 seconds that he’s been on the rap scene. This L.A. native, who’s currently based in Las Vegas has been extremely busy producing tracks and writing lyrics that have garnered the attention of underground heads and mainstreamers alike. His full-length debut effort, Melodic Blue is buzz-worthy and worth an earful. Keem’s set which includes tracks: Lost Souls, Orange Soda, Trademark USA, Issues, and Gorgeous, pave the way for the headliner.

"sleepy soldier" tanna leone

"the melodic blue" baby keem

Suddenly, the entire venue goes black again, we hear the voice of a modernday, lyrical genius speaks his poetic words with masterful precision.

Kendrick Lamar initially appears as a small puppet that takes center stage and recites a poem acapella. After a short pseudo-therapy session, Kendrick explodes onto the stage with a dynamic performance from beginning to unfortunate end. Without any lags or dull moments his entire set, each song flows into the next one without ever a consideration of skipping even once. He did favorites from his prior albums as well as his latest work that the majority of the crowd is singing along with him word for word. Kendrick Lamar utilizes every inch of his massive stage as well as the video screens on either side of the stage including his backdrop. His physical performers travel the realms of hip-hop, jazz, tap, African, Modern, and Freeform dance. It was a complete show from first holler until the last ovation.

When “The Big Steppers Tour” touches down in your area, do yourself a huge favor and get a ticket quickly because they are sure to sell out!

Kendrick Lamar and partner Dave Free, filmmaker, own the independent label PGLang and this tour is their awesome celebration. So far, with Tanna Leone, Baby Keem, and the man himself, Kendrick Lamar as their leading acts; I believe they’re going to be alright.

"WITHOUT ANY LAGS OR DULL MOMENTS HIS ENTIRE SET, EACH SONG FLOWS INTO THE NEXT ONE..." "mr. morale" kendrick lamar

n e l l A a r Taker

ISSUE 20 • FEATURED AUTHOR

THIS ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO ALL THINGS '90S, and “Last Stop from Innocence” reads like a love letter to that era. What inspired this novel?

I have always loved the 90s era, especially the late 90’s where the novel takes place - 1998 to be exact. It was a pivotal time for me. Although younger than the main

character in my novel at the time, I will never forget that summer. I was going into high school, DMX was everywhere, and we were on a high of simple euphoria. Being black, being young, and our small world filled with so much innocent fun and excitement. Capturing that feeling inspired the novel. That pure feeling of the 90’s where everyone and everything was authentic. People acted and thought for themselves. There was an array of styles, opinions, and being an individual was cool.

Of course, the novel has some twists down dark paths. But that authentic feel of the ’90s lingers throughout it. Looking back at that time as an adult, I always wished I could bottle it. I guess writing Last Stop in a way did that. I sort of made my own 1998 time capsule.

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Can you tell us about your writing journey?

From “Heaven’s Hell,” to “Last Stop from Innocence,” how do you feel you’ve evolved as a writer? And is there anything that you wish you’d kept the same?

Back to The 90's

I’ve evolved. I think it’s impossible not to. At the start of my writing career with novels like Heaven’s Hell, I was younger with less direction.

I was truly writing off the cuff - figuring out what I enjoyed writing and ultimately what I was good at. I was less detailed, the pace of my novels was quicker, and it mirrored where I was as a writer, as a new learner, and as a woman. I had fun with it but I didn’t think as much as I do now. My goals were different. I just wanted to write books. Now 12 years later, I know my voice at the moment – I say at the moment because as humans we are forever evolving, growing, and changing. But I believe ultimately, I know who I am as a writer. I’m more polished. I know what I enjoy writing, what I’m good at. I have a lane I’ve established for myself and my sole purpose when sitting down at a computer is how I push myself to take that lane further and further to an emotional, creative, enjoyable experience for

myself and my readers. Basically, I now know who Takerra Allen is. I’m just working on letting the rest of the world know. But if I had to keep something the same, maybe the only thing is I was so less critical of myself. I’m my own worst critic now. If that last book was here, I have to take this one there!

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

Start writing now. Put the book out now. You’re good enough. You have something different to offer the world. You’ll figure it out. Don’t beat yourself up. Don’t listen to them LOL Man, I wasted a lot of time listening to “them”.

Now, some of the people I held to such a standard, they’re not even around anymore

But everyone’s got something to say when you’re trying to do something. And if you’re not careful, it can really deter you. Also, don’t scrap those cool ideas you think are too off the wall.

Now, I don’t even remember some of them. But I wish I would’ve written every idea I ever had.

What is your muse when you’re writing?

Meaning, what inspires your novels?

Different things each time, which makes each experience so unique. A lot of my earlier works were inspired by dreams, which were really

just my subconscious speaking to me in my brain’s quiet time. So ultimately, I feel were parts of me – memories, desires, fears, etc. Last Stop as I said was inspired by my love for the 90’s – the music, the movies, the young sweet, black love, my own experiences. What I’m writing now, I would say is inspired by the beautiful complexity of women. Insecurities that are really attributes. Healing journeys.

Taking charge of your destiny. Recognizing your power. Owning your sexuality. Living in your femininity. There’s always a theme that I’m wrapped up in until completion.

Other things contribute to it and also become a part of my inspiration – music, art, etc. I’m currently living in a fictional world soundtracked by Nina Simone and Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon hangs on the wall of my mind. There’s some 90’s classics there, too. Last Stop was the hip-hop side. Now we’re onto smooth 90’s R&B. Do you write from a place of what Takerra wants, or does the demand from the readers sometimes creep into your creative process?

As much as I do write for what Takerra wants, because I trust myself now, and I know that writing from that raw, unfiltered, untainted place produces my most unique ideas without any skepticism, it would be impossible for me to not care about my readers at some point of my creative process. I will say the demand of readers does not drive any of my decisions. I think people that read my work by now know that. If that were the case, some folks would’ve come back to life, and others would be reunited and married with children right now. So, it’s not necessarily a demand, but it is a desire of contentment for them. Once I’m done and usually in the rewriting phase, I put myself in

the place of the reader and try to determine if there’s anything I’m leaving unfulfilled for them. Last Stop was going to end when Amore came out of the bodega and got into her dad’s car, drove off into the sunset, so long. But I felt the readers deserved more. They’d traveled up to that point with her, at least they could see how she turned out. Things like that creep up on me, but not necessarily demand.

How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have hiding on random flash drives?

Aw, man. Great question. Okay, let’s go through them. There’s the one with those sisters, not sure if it’s ever coming out but I’ve got maybe 100 pages on that, haven’t touched it in over 5 years. There’s the other one, only a few pages but a full outline. Good stuff, not sure about that either. Oh, there’s HS, that one is like TEN years old. Such a dope idea, maybe 150 or so pages. There’s the one about that guy that the readers would really love. A few pages and a full outline if I ever get the balls. Then there are the 3 that are at about 200+ pages currently. Those are going to be completed if I have to lock myself in a padded room and do it.

Which I have never done this before, gotten so far along with three concurrent projects at once. But being on my health hiatus allowed me freedom to do what I wanted. Those three are definitely coming, at least. I’m sure there are a few other stragglers around.

“Heaven’s Hell,” was made into a motion picture. Congratulations again on that. Was it difficult to adapt the novel into a screenplay?

Thank you so much! Adapting into a screenplay, not so much. I wrote the script in about an hour. I flipped through the book, picked the Of all of your novels, which one is your important parts, knew what had to be changed favorite? for the sake of resources, locations, film time, etc, and just adapted it into the format. But I cannot answer this question under the actually making the movie. Actually getting grounds that I would incriminate myself and I contracts for places, and ordering lunches for fear the characters of the unchosen will haunt actors, and figuring out lighting, and directing me in my dreams for the rest of my natural life. where to stand, and how to move and kiss, and No, seriously, authors actually answer this? It’s wardrobe, and not accounting for rain on like blasphemous. So, Denny says Denny – it’s outdoor scenes, and utilizing sunlight before not even called Devout, it’s called Denny. He’s the sun goes down, and paying another 2, 3, 4 K earned that. Devout is the house that Denny when you have to rebook a place because we built. Dice says Seasons showed my growth, ran too long – that was hard. That was all of the don’t front on it. Amore says what Last Stop things we had no idea about because we had no meant to me and so many others, I had better idea what we were doing. But it was fun. So pick that. My earlier babies say don’t forget much fun. And it was a memory. Like Bon Jovi where you came from. Current baby says don’t says, we made a memory if we made nothing forget where I’m taking you. So…to be safe, all else. of ‘em.

A DETERMINED TEENAGED GIRL, WHO DESPITE HER NEGLECTFUL HOME LIFE, AND OLDER, ABUSIVE BOYFRIEND, IS HEADING OFF TO COLLEGE TO LEAVE IT ALL BEHIND, BUT GETS SIDETRACKED WHEN SHE FALLS FOR A LOCAL DRUG-DEALER, IMMERSING HERSELF INTO HIS FAST LIFE OF SEX, MONEY, AND DRUGS. WRITTEN ANDE DIRECTED BY TAKERRA ALLEN, STARRING ORALDO AUSTIN, HEINLEY GASPARD ASHA HADIYAH.

Seasons of Fidelity reminds me of must see tv.

Will you continue to adapt your work for the screen?

so I think it’s only right that we close with you giving us your top three songs from that era.

What you got?

Your words, God’s ears, my Luv. That is one I truly want as a television show. But this time, with folks that have resources and knowledge to make it what it should be. So yes, I hope to negotiate a few works onto the screen in a different avenue than before. I wanted The Lonely Pole at one time and pitched it but now with a similar show out and killing it, I tabled that idea. Seasons is still something I want “real bad”.

Wowwwwwwwwwww! This how we doing it?

This is impossible. Not even of 1998, 97, 95 – the entire decade? Not even hip-hop or r&b?

Sheesh. Okay…

Please tell us what's next for you?

Novels. First and foremost. I have some stuff to say and it’s been a while. I can’t wait to connect with my Luvs again. After that, I have something special Dee and I are putting together. But for now, I’m crunching out these new characters and new worlds for readers to dive into. I truly hope they enjoy them.

We know music plays a big part in your writing process. This issue is dedicated to the 90’s,

Tupac – Keep Your Head Up Nas & Lauryn Hill – If I Ruled the World Sade – No Ordinary Love These aren’t even real. Ha! These are just some of my favorites but that’s what you’re getting from me off the top. Thank you sooo much for having me! I love you. Wishing you love and light. See you soon! – TA

diamond's literary world diamondsliteraryworld.com

Title: Seasons Of Fidelity (season two) Author: Takerra Allen Genre: urban romance 416 pages

Five Diamonds Childhood friends come together to mourn a family member and prove that everyone grieves in their own way. Instead of crying on the shoulder of their significant others, Ray and Regina seek comfort from each other. They're now faced with determining if the is a temporary solution or a permanent fix. Justice and Dice are trying to figure out where they dropped the ball, which eats away at both of their psyches. They too are faced with a blast from the past, and how they deal with it can be detrimental to others around them. Aleeya and Yael hide their unhappiness at work while trying to savor pleasant memories.

Several supporting characters proved why they would never hold the #1 spot... too thirsty. You can not guilt or force someone to stay in a relationship if they are not happy. Secrets are revealed, and the green-eyed monster reared its ugly head while proving that the heart wants what it wants and true love supersedes all.

I can't tell you how many times I screamed at this page-turner and swore that Takerra and I were going to have a conversation about this one because how dare you drag my emotions like this! Other times, I had to close my eyes, pause, and reread a passage because I know I didn't read what I think I did... the audacity of some of these characters. If you haven't already, please go read this series!

ITSCHARLOTTESCLOSET.COM

Welcome To Charlotte's Closet Date: October 17, 2022 Place: At my Desk Song: BE Happy Mary J Blige circa 1994 Reason Intellectual Ink # 20 Mood: Nostalgic Video: Real Love Mary J Blige TV show: Living Single Movie: King of New York Outfit: Basketball Jersey Headscarf Big Ass Glasses

Dear Closet Crew, I hope this issue finds you in the very best of health at this moment. I really missed you seriously, I know you are wondering why the hell I'm starting this article like a "Love-DuringLockup-Kite" -aka letter. The answer is simple: this issue we are taking you back way back to those eras when letters and landlines were still the best modes of communication. The 90s was a special time and while we were busy living in it, we had no idea how special it truly was.

It's hard to believe the 90s were over 30 years ago. Just marinate on that for a second, yeah, I know... shit is wild. However, if you are from that era and are reading this, you have truly been blessed and are a Real OG. We are taking it back way back in time to my favorite era, where R&b songs ruled the radio, and shows about love and melanin ruled prime-time television. I was 17 thinking I was the absolute grownest.

It's crazy to think about it now but fashion has shaped damn near every aspect of my life. And it started way back when we couldn't afford the clothes to keep up with the Joneses, but we made a way. Its crazy how we grew up. We thought, boosting, hustling, and dodging bullets was normal. That's why Jay Z's verse in DJ Khalid's song "God Did" was so triggering for me. Growing up not having a lot can certainly motivate you to do things you normally wouldn't.

My love of 90s music and fashion has 2 phases the first being the reggae stage, truth be told I'm still stuck there. The reggae me, Smurfette, was something else …. Let me just set the stage.

Baby, it was about 1990 and you couldn't tell my grown ass nothing the Jamaicans have invaded Brooklyn, and baby we were ripe and ready.

Loving the music and the accents but most of all the fashion.

Reggae fashion was ostentatious the biggest earrings the most bangles the loudest colors and baby me and crew we leaned all the way in.

OMG, we had sandals, leggings with holes, tshirts, hairstyles, and plenty of jewelry. We would roll to the reggae club 20 deep and get in for 20 whole dollars. We would sip our Canei wine and live our best teenage life even as we were dealing with adult problems.

90s Phase 2 is the Hip Hop and R& B Era that shaped my entire life, my whole world. The capers and heartbreak I endured as a teen can fill up 2 books but of course, that's another story.

I dedicate this era solely to the mfin Queen Mary J mfin Blige. Baby, she bared it all on her debut album "What’s the 411" released in 1992. She came onto the scene with a tomboy swagger coupled with the round-the-waygirl look complete with eyes full of pain. She made sure we saw her, and that gave me the confidence to be all I can be.

In 1994 she dropped her sophomore release, "My Life." I was a single mother looking for love in all the wrong places just like Queen MJB. Both she and I found it and lost it several times, but at least we looked good while doing it. The jerseys, the boots, the scarves all of it shaped who I am today. The "Be Happy" track on "My Life" says it all. Manifestation is real and life is what you make it I had the privilege to recently see the Queen 30 years after her first album dropped. I was with 20,000 people singing her songs word for word. Her fashion, swagger, vulnerability, and confidence are still intact.

The 90s it shaped a whole generation to infinity and beyond.

In Loving Memory of Tyasia Blake Fields

Sunrise ~ December 18th 1973 Sunset ~ October 10th 2022 a mother, grandmother, wife, and dear friend.

May she rest in perfect peace.

BACKOF TO THE 90'S BOOK THE MONTH

IT’S 1939 AND EASY AND MOUSE ARE YOUNG MEN JUST SETTING OUT IN LIFE— EASY HAS YET TO DEVELOP HIS SKILL FOR UNRAVELING THE SECRETS OF OTHERS, AND MOUSE HAS YET TO KILL HIS FIRST MAN. BUT ALL THAT WILL SOON CHANGE. Soupspoon Wise is dying on the unforgiving streets of New York City, years and worlds away from the Mississippi delta, where he once jammed with blues legend Robert "RL" Johnson.

It was an experience that burned indelibly into Soupspoon's soul—never mind that they said RL's gift came from the Devil himself. Now it's Soupspoon's turn to strike a deal with a stranger. An alcoholic angel of mercy, Kiki Waters isn't much better off than Soupspoon, but she too is a child of the South, and knows its pull. And she is determined to let Soupspoon ride out the final notes of his haunting blues dream, to pour out the remarkable tale of what he's seen, where he's been—and where he's going.

Mosley creates a “a meditation on the history and meaning of the blues” (Entertainment Weekly) in R L’s Dream, which practically sings a soulful blues song itself.

"Pain moved up the old man's hipbone like a plow breaking through hard sod." The old man is Soupspoon Wise, a Delta blues musician who's just been put out on the street in the East Village because he can't pay his rent.

Things look dim until a white girl named Kiki from Hogston, Arkansas, who has her own issues, finds him, is outraged that the landlord is evicting an old sick black man, and takes him in. Mosley moves the plot on from there, creating some of his best characters and painting an unforgettable picture of human kindness against all odds. But this ain't sentimental, no sirree. Bluesmen have gritty lives. Soupspoon and his idol Robert Johnson are no exceptions

BUY THE BOOK HERE

The Black Reserve Bookstore A CONVERSATION WITH THE OWNER SHAYKH ANWAR AM. MUHAMMAD

Tell us about the origin of The Black Reserve Bookstore.

Our mission was to give significant access to culture and history that goes way beyond what we’ve typically learned. With this point in mind, we treated each book as a work of adoration. Our books are broadly examined, attentively composed, and delightfully planned.

What type of books does your store specialize in?

The Black Reserve Bookstore specializes in Black literature and that is meant in totality. As in any and everything that is or was written by Black authors.

What's your favorite section of the store?

THEBLACKRESERVEBOOKSTORE.COM

Being a lover of history, I'd definitely say the classic and historical section. I believe that we cannot know where we are going until we know where we came from.

Located @ 319 W Main St Ste 8, Lansdale, PA 19446 hours of operation:

Tuesday 11 AM - 5 PM Wednesday 11 AM - 7 PM Thursday 11 AM - 5 PM

Friday 11 AM - 7 PM Saturday 11 AM - 7 PM Sunday 11 AM - 3 PM

Monday Closed

What does a typical workday look like at The Black Reserve?

A typical workday consists of numerous interactions with the community and store patrons. I agree with having a safe space for communication and questions. Questions aren't good, they are great.

Do you think it’s important for a bookseller to be actively involved in the community? If so, how are you involved in your local community?

ABSOLUTELY. It's what I live by. I am heavily involved in the community with events, speaking Engagements, classes, reading stories to local children, back to school events. I am literally involved in any and every way possible.

Do you have a favorite regular?

I wouldn't say a favorite regular. I'd say that regular customers turn into my extended family and I now have a large extended family.

Is there anything you would like our readers to know?

Home to ALL THINGS BLACK!!! From literature, comics, apparel, jewelry, art, oils, butters, and incense. The Black Reserve Bookstore is not just a bookstore, It's an experience. A Black Experience.

FOLLOW THE BLACK RESERVE BOOKSTORE

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BACKOF TO THE 90'S BOOK THE MONTH

HERE IS NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR ERIC JEROME DICKEY'S DEBUT NOVEL, A CELEBRATION OF BLACK SISTERHOOD HAILED BY ESSENCE AS ONE OF THE “50 MOST IMPACTFUL BLACK BOOKS OF THE LAST 50 YEARS”.

Valerie, Inda, and Chiquita are three women looking for love in Los Angeles.

Valerie became the perfect wife to please her husband, Walter, whose football career has gone nowhere—along with their marriage. Then she meets Daniel.

Valerie's divorced sister, Inda, has Raymond, who has a hot body, smooth moves—and another girlfriend on the side. Now Inda's scheming to get even.

After telling her last boyfriend to hit the road, Chiquita takes up with Thaddeus, Inda and Valerie's irresistible brother.

Has Chiquita finally found a good man?

Sexy and in-your-face, Sister, Sister depicts a modern world where woman may have to alter their dreams, yet never stop embracing tomorrow.

This has to be one of my favourite books it has everything and more to the point it is very real. The amount of detail that is put into this book is amazing you can pitcher every scene and place in the story. This book shows 3 very different but strong women all in the wrong type of relationship carrying a hefty load of unwanted emotional baggage and let me just say these women certainly showed there men not to mess with them in some way or other...

BUY THE BOOK HERE

Okay, what the "eff" is going on with the heated backlash from Disney's new film, "The Little Mermaid?" by erick s. gray

Why all the hate and negative comments on such an iconic picture? I'll tell you why Halle Bailey plays Ariel, and she's African American—or a Black woman. Ariel is a fictional character, yes—there's nothing historical or cultural about Ariel. The Little Mermaid is entirely fantasy, yet, these online trolls are acting like Disney is this goliath company trying to become Woke, when all this is about is making money by revising their old classics into live-action films. And The Little Mermaid tells the story of a teenage mermaid princess named Ariel, who dreams of becoming human and falls in love with a human prince named Eric. When the trailer dropped, it received 2.4 million dislikes on YouTube. The hate and racism are real. And if you want to divide and polarize America, keep doing what Disney is doing, take a white cartoonish/fictional character from an iconic film and make them Black, then sit back and watch the uproar from White America. But haven't Hollywood been doing this to African Americans, Asians, and Native Americans for decades, whitewashing Hollywood and replacing people of color with White characters?

Where do I begin with Hollywood's Whitewashing of people of color and

culture? For example, many of y'all might not know this, but the iconic Dr. Strange is an Asian character, yet, Disney/Marvel had recast him as a white man. His original appearance was made to look like a caricature of an Asian man. And Strange's mentor, the Ancient One, portrayed by white actress Tilda Swinton in the first Doctor Strange film, did not look much better.

Swinton's character was a Tibetan man in the comics. White America, where is the uproar with that change, huh? But I'm going to take things back to "The Lone Ranger." Now, do you know the Lone Ranger was based on a black man, better yet, a Black Marshall named Bass Reaves? He was an American law enforcement official, historically noted as the first black deputy U.S. marshal west of the Mississippi River. He mainly worked in Arkansas and the Oklahoma Territory.

Reaves was responsible for apprehending criminals, killing 14 outlaws, and capturing more than 3,000 throughout his tenure. In the Lone Ranger movie, Tonto, his trusted ally and a Native American, was masqueraded by Johnny Depp. He is a talented actor but still a white man portraying a character of color or culture.

And this act of Hollywood creating entire worlds where people of color don't exist is blasphemy and sacrilege.

There's Liam Neeson as Ra's al Ghul in Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy. Mickey Rooney as Mr. Yunioshi in Breakfast at Tiffany's. Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra in Cleopatra. Marlon Brando as Sakini in The Teahouse of the August Moon. Sir Laurence Olivier as Othello in Othello, portrayed by white men in Blackface. (Don't get me started on the Blackface now, that's an article.) But the list of white actors playing people of color or different ethnicity is endless. And these trolls want to have an uproar about Halle Bailey playing a damn fictional mermaid; a fucking fish—are they serious?

I feel those who have a problem with the casting of the Little Mermaid are racist, prejudiced, and ignorant; and need to shut the fuck up! What is the problem with Haley Bailey playing a fictional character when Hollywood's been having white actors play historical and real-life ethnical characters for decades, kings and queens from Egypt, prominent Native Americans, or iconic anime characters worshiped by their fans? The problem with whitewashing is the psychological impact on communities of color due to stereotypes, media, and familial influence. California-based psychiatrist Leela R. Magavi, MD, quoted, "It can lead to debilitating anxiety as minority individuals may feel pressured to look, speak, or present a certain way."

FOLLOW AUTHOR ERICK S. GRAY

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Fortunately, we as a people are creating our own content, and some studios and film companies are getting it. They are correcting specific images in films and changing the status quo in cinema. And whitewashing seems to be less prevalent as time goes on, but it's still a problem in Hollywood.

Unfortunately, with The Little Mermaid, casting Black and Asian actors in any role frequently instigates a surge of comments from online trolls that are seemingly made to get a reaction. Though the cast and the majority of fans have attempted to counter and shout down the haters, it is proving to be a mountain growing increasingly and more insurmountable.

And that’s what the “Eff” is going on.

Watch No Better Love (2022) - Free Movies | Tubi (tubitv.com)

BOBACK THE 90'S BOOK OFTO THE MONTH

E. LYNN HARRIS WITH A THOROUGHLY ENTERTAINING AND CONFIDENT VOICE, OMAR TYREE LEADS THE PACK OF A NEW GENERATION OF AFRICAN-AMERICAN MALE WRITERS. From a fresh new voice with talent to burn comes this brash bitter sweet novel about Tracy Ellison, a young girl with knockout looks, slanted hazel eyes, tall hair, and attitude, as she comes of age during the hip-hop era. Motivated by the material life, Tracy, her friends, and the young men who will do anything to get next to them are plunged into a world of violence, gratuitous sex, and heartbreak.

Slowly, Tracy begins to examine her life, her goals, and her sexuality—as she evolves from a Flyy Girl into a woman.

A captivating tale, written with fluid narrative and contemporary dialect, Flyy Girl captures the complete feel and sounds of the streets and is destined to become an urban classic.

I give this book a five star for capturing an unremarkable and phenomenal African American coming-of-age story. The book ‘FLYY GIRL’ by Omar Tyree follows Tracy Ellison from her sixth birthday party in 1977 to her 17th birthday while she experience’s the generous, hip-hop 1980s as well as the effects of the cocaine economy that flourishes in black communities in Philadelphia. Tracy is a pretty and intelligent but sassy mouth young lady who is also boy crazy, and I was able to watch as her physical maturation leads to increasing sexual activity and how her mental maturation grew throughout the book. Tyree not only captures black language as it is spoken among the people Tracy encounters but also the essence of Philadelphia.

BUY THE BOOK HERE

CONTEMPORARY FLASH FICTION

The alarm buzzed at 6 a.m.

Time to get myself and the girls ready, she thought, sighing heavily. It was hard having responsibilities while enduring a broken heart.

She stood before the mirror, squeezing toothpaste on her electric toothbrush. Lifting her eyes and the toothbrush to her lips, she froze. Her eyes were so swollen she might as well have been punched blind. Her daughters couldn’t see her like this. There were only very slight openings between the two lids through which she could see. She showered and reached for a pair of dark glasses.

“Tess,” her mother-in-law greeted as they met in the hall, “it’s twenty minutes after six. It would be better if you got up earlier so the girls won’t be late for school.”

Tess sighed quietly. She lived in her mother-in-law’s house together with her husband and two daughters until her husband moved to a different state for work, where he started cheating on her. Her mother-in-law Helen had known. After they learned of Connor’s mistresses, Helen tried her best to be supportive. Tess understood that, but hearing it would be better to do it this way every minute of every day was driving her up the wall. Somehow, Helen thought running Tess’s life was the best thing for her.

She didn’t need her life ran. What she needed was to run the hell away from the mess she had made of her life.

When she got to the kitchen, Alyssa and Beth were already eating. She inhaled deeply, for the second time that morning, to calm the anger threatening to break through its pressured restraints.

“Mommy, look! My goldfish is swimming,” Beth shrieked gladly.

Who even gives a kid goldfish and milk for breakfast? she thought.

“Beth, honey, put that away. You can have it later.” Tess reached for a box of oats.

“It’s all she would eat,” Alyssa said. “Gran made us bacon and eggs, but she wouldn’t have it.”

Tess's shoulders sagged, and she rubbed her brow.

“Why are you wearing shades? The sun isn’t even out yet.”

“Alyssa, lets…just…not, okay? Please. You can drill me later. Finish up and get your bags. I’ll be in the car.”

“Do have some breakfast, Tessanya,” Helen argued as she came into the room. “You're becoming skin and bone. Just wait, I’ll dish you a plate.”

She was an intolerable pain, and still, at the same time, incredibly kind. Tess wished she could have hated her…or loved her…she just wished her heart would pick a feeling; it didn’t matter which one. In every aspect of her life, she was in between feelings. She was surrounded by uncertainty. She was uncertain whether to accept or hate her mother-in-law, which made her uncertain about staying or moving out. She was uncertain if she should tell her kids their father wasn’t coming home. She was uncertain whether she should give him a divorce. Her lips quivered, and she pursed them tightly, blinking back tears as Helen neared the car.

“I put it in a cover dish so you can take it with you. I know you probably don’t want anything to eat now. You never could eat this early.”

Tess looked at the woman; she couldn’t eat since her world collapsed.

“Thank you, see you later.” Tess croaked, trying to get rid of the woman, but she stopped the rising glass with her hand.

“You never let me in, Tess. Maybe it would be good if you did so now. Don’t isolate yourself. You need someone.”

The words were like a drill to Tess’s heart. She did need someone, her husband. It was impossible how oblivious people were to the things they said in trying to be of comfort. No one else could make it

hurt less. No one could except for the person who caused the hurt in the first place. Tess nodded; her eyes fixed on the windshield. All she wanted was for the girls to get in the car so she could drive far away from there.

“I’m inviting a few people over this evening, a few from your firm, some family.”

Tess’s stiff neck spun to look at Helen.

“Just a small gathering to keep you social.”

“Girls!” She bellowed, impatience lining her voice.

A small gathering was the last thing she needed. The girls hurried out at their mother’s abrupt cry.

“Bye, Grandma,” the girls said in unison.

“See you later,” Tess muttered.

“Bye, sweet girls, have a good day. You, too, Tess.”

Tess made a forced sound as she smiled. She switched the engine on and drove off faster than she normally would. Driving automatically, Tess’s thoughts swirled around chaotically in her head. She couldn’t breathe. She needed to cry, she needed to scream. She stopped at a bistro.

“I’ll be right back, girls. I really need to pee.”

She hurried to the restroom, shut the door, and screamed until the tightness in her chest was free.

Convulsing, she sank to the floor, sobbing. A knock sounded at the door. Quickly, she drew a ply of toilet paper and dabbed her face.

“I’m sorry, it’s okay,” she said, her face angled downward as she opened the door. “I’m okay.”

The waiter watched her as she pushed past him, concern masking his eyes. She jumped back into the car.

“Sanitizer,” Alyssa said.

“What?”

“You always use sanitizer after stopping at a public restroom.”

“Oh, right,” she answered, trying to smile.

“Mom, I know you’ve been...” Alyssa looked back at her little sister. “I know what’s going on.”

Tess looked from Alyssa to the road. She knew she wouldn’t be able to keep it from her for long. She was thirteen. Of course, she knew what was going on.

“Nothing’s going on.”

Alyssa ignored this. “Why don’t you just leave if it’s so hard for you?” She waited for her mother’s response. “Sign the papers,” she continued.

“Stop it! Stop worrying about me,” Tess whispered. “What’s going on is not for you to be concerning yourself with.”

“You’re my mother.”

“Right. I’m the mom. Let me worry about the mom stuff. If you want to help, learn how to cook so your grandma can’t make me feel so worthless all the time.”

“Gran is just trying to help.”

“Everyone is trying to help. I don’t want anyone’s help!” Tess exploded.

Alyssa recoiled. “Don’t shout,” she enforced.

Tess closed her eyes briefly and shook her head. “I know, I’m sorry.” She touched her daughter’s head.

“Just leave. All those houses you’re selling, buy one yourself and just leave, please, Mom. Gran was right. You are losing weight, and you’re angry, and I’m scared. I’ve seen all the pills you take. I don't want you to hurt yourself.” Her voice shook, and she turned her face toward the window.

Tess looked in the mirror to find Beth crying silently in the backseat. Alyssa was right. There was no point holding on. It was over. It had been over a long time. She’d sign the papers, and she’d move out.

Today. She’d make a clean break, a fresh start, for her girls and herself.

She dropped the girls off at school and stayed until they got in then drove to work. Instead of seeing her clients, Tess went house hunting herself. She’d seen a cute cottage-like house in the listings and decided to drive up there and see the place. An aging couple owned the home, and they were ready to leave and move into their dream retirement home. They expressed their love for the house and the fond memories they had of their children running around the land.

“It’s beautiful in the summer,” the old woman told Tess.

“And the lake just on the other side of those trees is great for ice skating in the winter, if you like that sort of thing.”

She didn’t, but it was perfect for Alyssa. Figure skating was her dream, instilled in her by her father.

Tess broke down. The old couple consoled her.

“There, there,” the woman said, looking up at her husband sadly. He patted Tess’s hand as he met his wife’s eye.

Tess bought the house in cash at the end of the tour and was happy to hear she could move in immediately as the old couple got their things together to leave the following day.

“Leave all your worries at your old house,” the old man said gravely to Tess. “There’s no place for them here.”

“Oh, smile, dear,” his wife said to Tess. “We’ve filled this house with love and light and joy. It’s just enough to fuel you with the hope you need to move on. It’s your new beginning. Yours and ours.” The two beamed.

Later that evening, Tess picked her daughters up from school. When she got to Helen’s, everyone was there.

“There she is,” Helen welcomed warmly. “I hope this will help you cope.”

“No, but I’ll accept it as my sending-off party,” Tess replied. “Unfortunately, I can’t stay. I have to go pack. We’re leaving tomorrow. Thank you for accommodating me and for being a wonderful grandmother to my children, but I’m stifled here. I hope I have your full support in standing on my own feet. And one last thing in the name of support—mail that to your son for me.”

Helen stood wide-eyed as Tess stomped up the stairs to begin packing. When she returned after some time, everyone was gone, and the girls were hugging their grandmother.

“I’m sorry to see you go, Tess, but you do, without question, have my support. You’re my daughter.”

Tess smiled. “Come visit, anytime,” she said, hugging her mother-in-law.

“How about I come down tomorrow?” Helen exclaimed.

“Moving day?” Tess said, holding in a laugh. “Too soon.” Turning to her girls, Tess smiled. “Let’s pack.”

The girls, smiling brightly, followed their mother upstairs.

For the first time in months, Tess looked forward to tomorrow. She and her girls would drive happily out of the city, away to a new home and a new life.

FLASH FICTION, SHORT STORIES, & POETRY INTELLECTUALINK.COM/SUBMISSIONS

Violette Meier

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Tell us about your body of work. Does each book stand on its own, or is your body of works connected?

My body of work is a preternatural collection of fiction that reflects my upbringing and the deep crevices of my imagination. Sitting at the foot of a great-grandmother who told the most fantastic supernatural tales inspired me to search for the unknown and allow my imagination to enhance my findings. My work reflects my search and respect for the mysterious what-ifs of life.

Some of my books are stand-alone, like Ruah the Immortal, Out of Night, and Oracles. My short story collections Hags, Haints and Hoodoo and Tales of a Numinous Nature are also stand-alone books. I also have a series that I call the Angel Crush saga. It consists of three books: Angel Crush, Son of the Rock, and Archfiend. They follow the life of a boy created by a fallen angel and a local Atlanta woman.

How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?

It changed my process dramatically! My first book was written in longhand. I'll never do that again. So much time and effort were wasted on retyping.

Also, my desire to be a better writer deepened because after publishing my first book, I wanted desperately to share my stories. I wanted to be my best to attract more readers but to also be unapologetically myself. I learned to find and perfect my voice.

What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?

Marketing materials. Creating an attractive table for signings with captivating art, cool book covers, and giveaways like ink pens and bookmarks really help move products. Social media advertising has been lucrative at times also.

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

Start sooner and do your best at all times. Life moves by fast so don't take time for granted.

What are working on now, and when can readers expect it?

I just returned from Egypt, and I have a number of short stories stewing in my mind. I plan on putting them on the page very soon.

Sadie Covington was living a good life of prosperity and true love. Everything seemed to be perfect until she became the obsession of a celestial stalker who forced her to become the bearer of bad news. Now her life has taken a frightening turn and the powers that be have relinquished her of all control. Creation is groaning and destruction is begging to be released.

Nothing will ever be the same. Angel Crush is a modern thriller that brings to life the lore of antiquity and challenges the limits of love. The age old battle of good and evil begins again as the supernatural and natural world marry to create a new saga that promises an eerie journey you will crave to take again and again.

Kim Morris

kamorris870.wixsite.com instagram.com/poetdiva1 Kim Morris-Burse | Facebook

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I first realized I wanted to be a writer when I was about eleven years old. My grandfather would tell me these fascinating stories. He had this baritone voice in which he would sing and create voices of the characters in his stories. I started writing stories emulating the ones he told.

How long does it take you to write a book? Walk us through your process.

The time varies for me when writing a book. It depends on what’s going on in my life. I have completed a book in three months. My first book Tears I Shed took me two years to write because I would start and then stop. My process usually begins with an idea from something I’ve heard or seen, real-life issues that affect people. I name my characters and then plot their

resume. I figure out what relationship they will have with the other characters and whether they will be good, bad, or a comedian. Once that is complete, I begin to write the story. I love to write longhand, so I always carry a notebook because sometimes I get a thought of something a character should say or do, so I write it down, so I won’t forget by the time I get home.

Tell us about your latest book, Just Emotions.

Just Emotions is a story of friendship, sisterhood, and the ups and downs that life and love bring. The ladies endure challenges in their personal lives that affect them individually and as a whole.

Adults need a village to help them maneuver through life as well and that’s called friendship. The story of Just Emotions is just as its title states because it will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride. It will test your emotions and that was my intent.

What are you working on now, and when can readers expect it?

I am currently working on three projects, a children’s book with my grandchildren.

I want to bring to life some of the stories my grandfather told me. Secondly, I am working on a book with my oldest grandson about the bond between a grandmother and grandchild and I will begin writing part two of Just Emotions.

What inspires my poetry, and can you share one with us?

My poetry is usually inspired by life events whether it’s personal or something that’s going on in our world.

We Are Women

We are women And, from the ribs we were formed We are the bright sunshine after the storm The effervescent glow that allows the stars to shine at night Through the struggle we train for the fight Opinions say, since we are not man we are inferior But those opinions fail to make us any wearier Their egos and motives scream ulterior Yet our motto and ethics reign superior Strength flows through our interior Strong, infused in the skin of our exterior Yes, we are women Following the paths of soldier women who soldiered before we existed Women, who were warned, given subpar explanations but nevertheless they persisted Standing strong in the battle, joined as one with our fellow sisters, we enlisted Yes, we are women Do not take our presence for granted Our wombs birthed nations The seeds we sowed sprouted Became a forest of trees, enchanted Speaking real words, the truth never slanted Power to the women, power to my sisters The chorus of voices chanted Yes, we are women Arm in arm, heart to heart, mind to mind and soul to soul We stand firm like a tree We shall not be moved Women, we break, now we shatter glass ceilings Like laws opinions are made for appealing Yes, we’ve been warned, given subpar explanations, nevertheless we still persisted Shall I name a few who resisted Maxine Waters reclaimed her time Harriet Tubman ran for freedom Ruby Bridges walked in that school Angela Davis defied the rules And recently, Stacy Adams rocked the vote Must I go on, the list is long The conclusions have been drawn We are not a prawn A system set up to neglect us asked to honor those who refuse to respect us Women, we have rights We must write the laws to protect us Even though we’ve been warned, given subpar explanations, we persisted Let us speak up, educate, enlighten, continue the fight and forever be known as the ones who resisted.

KIM MORRIS

Yasmin S. Brown

(yiry-elements.com) Yasmin S Brown Clc (@yiryelements) Yasmin S Brown Clc | Facebook

What inspired you to start writing? How long have you been writing?

I started writing when I was a young child. I used to write poetry such as “rose are red, violets are blue” and then expand with my own rhyming words. As I got older, I got away from writing.

Going back to my childhood in 2016, journaling. Developing a deeper found passion, I transitioned into authoring a three-book series in 2018, The Silent Destruction, Red Flags, and Deliverance. Expanding a few years later with a children’s book, The Iced Tea of Friendship, and a couple of Anthologies. One of which became an international best-seller, Voices Of The 21st Century Resilient Women Who Rise AND Make A Difference.

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

I find my inspiration in the restoration of women’s mental health.

With a passion to help women go from trauma to leadership in individuality, community, and business through Leadership Empowerment Coaching.

Do you hear from your readers much?

What kinds of things do they say?

Through coaching and vendor shows, my customers would make comments such as “I’m proud of you” and “Keep going because your work matters.”

These statements enable me to hold on to a positive mindset, I am making a difference.

What messages do you hope readers take from your work?

I would like my readers to take away they are not alone. With the help, resources, and support of a positive circle, you can face it and speak it and heal from it. Whatever your “it” you and your voice matter. What can readers expect next? My readers can expect to be on the lookout for my new book to drop soon, The Traumatic Takeoff, The Plane Ride to Healing.

How can readers find you and your work?

Readers can follow me on www.instagram.com/yiry-elements, www.facebook.com/yiryelements, or visit my website at https://yiryelements.com.

Suffering in silence from sexual assault and domestic violence remains until her since of security gets taken away. Unhinged and vulnerable Taquayasia taps into her survivor instincts and revisits her past of molestation, rape, attempted suicide, and alcohol only to discover the true meaning of her grandmother’s last words, “he will be back.” The brokenness continues in order to find her self-worth, selflove and self-confidence. This book creates interaction and encouragement to find oneself in the darkness.