Tag: 100 Authors in 100 Days

Meet Author Olivia Gunn

Posted in 100 Authors in 100 DaysTagged , , , Leave a comment

A native of Columbus, Georgia, Olivia Gunn is a communications specialist who is dedicated to helping businesses and brands reach their full potential. Gunn’s commitment to the field of communications is evident through her continued tenure in the industry. Her goal is to foster valuable relationships and be an asset to businesses and organizations worldwide.  

Gunn obtained a Master of Art degree in public relations from Webster University. She also received a bachelor’s degree in communication from Columbus State University and an associate degree in business management from Columbus Technical College. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, Gunn took on the role as digital content producer in 2016 with an ABC affiliate news station in Columbus and has soared in the communications field ever since.

In 2018, Gunn became the host of “Live with Olivia Gunn,” a radio show that broadcasted on urban radio station, Foxie 105 FM, in Columbus until 2021.

Above all of her accomplishments, Gunn recognizes establishing her own business as one of her biggest successes. Gunn founded Olivia Gunn PR and Communications in 2019 where she’s had the opportunity to help multiple small businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs with PR campaigns, media relations, and communications strategies for their events, product launches, and overall brand.

In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Gunn is also a multi-platform producer at an NBC affiliate news station in Atlanta, Georgia.

A woman of many accomplishments and esteemed value, Gunn is committed to continued growth in the communications industry and enhancing the brands of businesses to come.  

We had the awesome opportunity of catching up with Olivia to discuss and learn more about the creativity that went into developing her latest project.

 First things first, how did we develop an interest in writing? 

I’ve always loved writing. It’s the “one thing” I’ve always been good at. I worked as a digital journalist for years, writing publications for news stations, and decided it was time to publish my own work.

When did you realize you had a story that the world needed to hear? 

I knew that I had a story to share with the world after realizing how many people today are entrepreneurs and how my generation makes up a large portion of the nation’s consumer market.  

What was the writing process like, did you come up with your title first and build around it or did the manuscript come first?

The writing process started after I obtained my master’s in public relations. I did extensive studying and research in social media marketing and public relations. I felt that the knowledge I gained could help so many business owners. I was well aware of the topic I wanted to write about, but I struggled with the title. So, the title was the final piece.

What is the message behind your title? 

The message behind my title is social media is the leading tool, if used effectively, to influence millennial and Gen Z consumers.

Can you share 3 takeaways you would like women to take away from your book? 

After reading my book, I want women, especially women in business, to have an understanding of how to expand their brand, convert their audience into customers, and use social media to their advantage.

At any moment during your writing process did you experience writer’s block, what tips do you have for overcoming it? 

I never experienced writer’s block, but I did struggle with how much to include in the book and what should be omitted. I wanted my book to be informative, but also “easy reading.” I would encourage writers to put themselves in the position of their audience and create work that you would want to read.

Take me through the first moment you held your book in your hands, what did that feel like for you? 

I felt really accomplished after holding my book for the first time. Aside from launching my business, my book is my biggest project thus far.

What would you say was the most challenging part of your writing process? 

The most challenging part of my writing process was dedicating time to complete the book. My schedule can be demanding and while writing the book, I relocated from Tennessee to Georgia. So, there were periods where I would go a while without writing.

What key tips do you have for marketing your book and getting it out to the masses? 

When working to get your book to the masses, it’s important to make sure it’s easy for people to purchase your book. Determine the best communications channels to reach your target audience and use the channels that will give you the greatest reach for your marketing budget. Remember that marketing and communication is an ongoing process, so be consistent in promoting your book.

What audience is your book written for? 

My book is written for business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketers whose products/services with millennial and Gen Z consumers.  

Grab Your Copy of  “Social Media and Business: Influencing Buying Decisions of Millennial and Gen Z Consumers”

Meet Author Renee Brown

Posted in 100 Authors in 100 DaysTagged , Leave a comment

Renee was born and raised in South Haven Michigan, a beautiful beach town along Lake Michigan.  She met and married her husband Garry in Malibu Lake California, where they raised their two children.  Renee always had a passion for the arts, which included painting and avidly playing the piano. Through God, Renee turned her artistic passion into purpose through opening successful art studios in both California and Texas. Renee also is a seasoned professional artist who paints angels and animals as she perceives them in Heaven.  Her artwork has touched many of all ages, and some of her pieces have been dedicated and gifted to notable figures, including Bishop T.D. Jakes.

As a genuinely passionate artist, and advocate for women’s choice for treatment, Renee is looking to solidify her stance in the world by showing everyone that your faith can be stronger than medicinal options. Purpose-driven art, medical treatment awareness, and faith during adversarial times shine through as Renee’s life purpose, and she wants to bring you along for the ride. This is a testimonial that relates to her journey…..all you have to do is “just believe”.

First things first, how did we develop an interest in writing? When did you realize you had a story that the world needed to hear?

My interest in writing only came after having this unbelievable event in my life, and to my family’s life.  Once it resolved itself by the grace of God, I knew the story needed to be told. I felt that by writing the story, it might help other women going through the same or similar experience. I knew no one could write about this life experience but me so I began taking notes of the sequence of events that took place. My dearest friend and minister, Jacquala Shropshire, read my notes and urged me to write a book so that my story would be heard. So, with much faith and God’s undeniable love, I got up every morning at 4:00 AM and like another miracle, eventually it developed into my story, my book that I wrote entirely myself.

What was the writing process like, did you come up with your title first and build around it or did the manuscript come first?

I decided in the early morning hours, after much prayer, that “600 Angels” would be the cover of my book. After much thought, my publisher, Dr. Angela Banks and I, decided to change it to “How 600 Angels changed my life”.

What is the message behind your title?

The message behind the title of my book “How 600 Angels Saved My Life”, is that after what happened to me, I believe there are Angels all around us, helping us, protecting us. Heaven is real!

Can you share 3 takeaways you would like women to takeaway from your book?

I hope that after reading my book, women feel that they are not alone, they should know their choices for their bodies, and that having faith is just as important as having good health.

At any moment during your writing process did you experience writers block, what tips do you have for overcoming it?

I didn’t really have the typical definition of writer’s block, but what did happen was that I would have these lengthy pauses in my writing process because so many times it was extremely hard to relive the experiences that happened to me.

Take me through the first moment you held your book in your hands, what did that feel like for you?

I felt a bit faint, excited and very proud that I had finally accomplished what God had set before me. I felt very blessed.

What would you say was the most challenging part of your writing process?

The most challenging part of my writing process was the gut- wrenching truthfulness of what happened to me.  To write this painful, personal journey, opening up my life, was immensely difficult to relive.

What key tips do you have for marketing your book and getting it out to the masses? First and foremost my faith in God, and believing in myself.  And hiring EPI Media was the very best decision.  They have been very instrumental in building my early success and promoting my book in every way!

What audience is your book written for?

I believe that my story can touch any woman at any age that needs help and encouragement for the many challenges that life brings.  Remember, Just Believe!

Connect with Renee online at https://www.600angels.com/

Meet Author Gina M. Carter

Posted in 100 Authors in 100 DaysTagged Leave a comment

Gina M Carter is an author and business owner. She owns a leggings brand called, BYBC Leggings, based in New Orleans, LA. She also wrote a book called “Robbed By Death Twice”, dedicated to her late husband and late father. She was born and currently resides in New Orleans, LA. She graduated from Marion Abramson H.S. Also attended Delgado Community College where she attained her certification in Medical Assisting. She decided healthcare was not her passion, so she dove deeper into business. She became a widow at the age of 40. After surviving tragedy, she is ready for what’s next. She loves family, friends, and functions.

First things first, how did we develop an interest in writing?
I developed an interest in writing simply to tell my story. I wanted to honor my late father and late husband. I also wanted to release baggage and help others who may have been through the same or similar experiences.

When did you realize you had a story that the world needed to hear?
I started journaling after seeing a therapist and while journaling I notice I had a lot of baggage to be released, especially about my late father. So journaling was the inspiration for the book.

What was the writing process like, did you come up with your title first and build around it or did the manuscript come first?
I created a writing schedule to write three times a week for an hour a day. That didn’t quite go the way I planned. Once I would start writing, I didn’t want to stop. I was so emotional when writing, I didn’t want to forget anything. I came up with the title first, then I thought about chapter titles. Made it easier to write once the book was outlined.

What is the message behind your title?
The book title is “Robbed By Death Twice” I felt robbed by the deaths of my late father and late husband. My dad and I had a challenging relationship, and when we finally reconciled, he died a year later. My late husband and I were only married for 3 years, so I felt robbed because I wanted to grow old with him.

Can you share 3 takeaways you would like women to take away from your book?
Never be ashamed of your past, we all have a story to tell. Never be afraid to tell your story. Know that death is a part of life, so live your best life while you are here.

At any moment during your writing process did you experience writer’s block, what tips do you have for overcoming it?
I experienced writer’s block when it came to writing about my late husband. The part was I didn’t want to tell all our secrets, and his death was so fresh so I was very emotional. Sometimes I was at a loss for words.

Take me through the first moment you held your book in your hands, what did that feel like for you?
When my author copies arrived, I felt emotional but accomplished. I also felt nervous because I didn’t know how people would accept my truth. For the most part, I was happy and excited. I screamed, “I am an Author”

What would you say was the most challenging part of your writing process?
I would say, the last chapter. You start off by telling your story. You include everything, all the details, then you get toward the end and want to go out with a bang, so you second guess everything you say. You think this is not a good ending. That is really when I got writer’s block.

What key tips do you have for marketing your book and getting it out to the masses?
Social media is great. Word of mouth is even better.

What audience is your book written for?
Grievers, widows, widowers, fatherless daughters, Nola residents, anyone looking for a short story but powerful message.

Instagram @iam_ginamarie

Book link: store.bookbaby.com/book/robbed-by-death-twice

Book also available on Amazon

 

100 Authors in 100 Days: Meet J.B. Vample

Posted in New OnlineTagged , , Leave a comment

J.B. Vample is an author who fell in love with the written word at a young age. While in her final year of high school, she came up with the concept of her new adult fiction series The College Life Series. After years of writing only for herself, J.B. published her debut novel College Life 101: Freshman Orientation in 2015. Since then, she has written and published the other eight installments of TCLS. Her latest standalone book Right as Reign, which is set to be released January 18, 2022, is her tenth novel. Currently residing in Philadelphia, J.B. continues to write while managing her career as an indie author.

You fell in love with writing at a very young age, can you remember the moment you were introduced to writing?

 First, I’d like to mention that I’ve had an overactive imagination as far back as I can remember. But I didn’t write my first story until I was in middle school. I went from writing that short story to writing journal entries, to poetry, then graduated to writing full novels in high school. Writing had become a way for me to express myself. It was my outlet, my hobby and after a while, I realized that it was my passion.

Can you give us 3 words to describe your creativity?

 Imaginative, detailed, and enthusiastic.

 What inspired the start of “The College Life Series”?

 I was seventeen when the concept came to me. I was in my last year of high school, preparing to graduate and go to college in the fall. I was imagining what my own college experience could possibly be like. Imagining who I’d meet, how my classes were going to go, where I’d live, etc. Then out of nowhere, I came up with this cast of five young black women, then just began writing. I had half of the first book finished before I even stepped foot onto campus. At that time, I didn’t think about publishing. I never expected to. I just knew that I wanted to read this story, so I wrote it for myself. 

You have your 10th novel which debuted early 2022, can you share the message behind it? 

 The title of my 10th novel, which released January 2022, is Right as Reign. This is a women’s contemporary / romance standalone that I wrote back in 2020. I absolutely love this story by the way. There are a few messages within this novel. One being that, when you finally let go of the thing / person / situation that’s hurting you, you can then allow yourself to heal, thrive and be happy. Second, keeping your feelings inside for fear of being too vulnerable doesn’t help you in the long run. Vulnerability isn’t a sign of weakness. Lastly, the one person you’re meant to be with…you’ll be with.

Where do you hope to see your work in the next 3-5 years? 

In the next 3 to 5 years, I’d like to see all my books get the worldwide recognition that I believe they deserve. I hope to see “The College Life Series” made into a television series, and I hope to see “Right as Reign” made into a movie. I want to continue to grow as a writer and produce books that readers will continue to love and connect with. Ultimately, I just want the world to see my vision as clearly as I do and I believe that will happen. I pray for it, and I will continue to work for it.

How can readers connect with you?

 Readers can connect with me through multiple outlets. My website is jbvample.com. Through social media: Facebook (Author J.B. Vample), Instagram (@jbvample), Twitter (@jbvample), TikTok (j.b._vample). I also have a YouTube channel (J.B. Vample), where I currently have a few book discussion videos about “The College Life Series.”

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles? 

To me, a pretty woman who hustles is a woman who will follow her dreams no matter what. No matter how much time she thinks has passed, no matter the obstacle, no matter how many times she falls. She’s going to pick herself back up, dust herself off, and keep pushing forward. She knows that no one is going to go harder for her than herself.

Connect with J.B. by visiting online at www.jbvample.com  

Meet Author Shanté J. Adams

Posted in New OnlineTagged , , , , Leave a comment

Shanté J. Adams is a published scientist turned published children’s book author with many stories to tell surrounding her daily experiences as a mother to a lively toddler who has changed her world! Shanté enjoys guiding her daughter each day with the help of her loving, supportive husband. She feels compelled to share her fun stories with all those interested in good reads for the entire family!

When did you develop a passion for writing and sharing stories?

 I wrote my first children’s book in the first grade. I was recently inspired by motherhood to share my experiences through children’s stories.

What inspired your book “Mommy says so”? 

Motherhood. I never have a dull moment raising my kid.

What message do you hope readers take away from your work? 

I hope readers take a way positivity and a feeling of warmth because my stories are truly full of feeling.

Where do you hope to see your work in the next 3-5 years? 

Maybe in some book stores and libraries. It’s such a fun read for kids.

What advice do you have for upcoming writers?

 Just take a chance and do it! Your story is unique so feel free to share it!

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles? 

A woman who recognizes her limitations will never limit her success if she isn’t afraid to try something new.

Social Media Handles: 

LinkedIn profile: http://linkedin.com/in/shanté-hinton-adams-b31ba558

Facebook group: What Mommy Says Next: Topics to Inspire

Instagram: @authorshantej.2022

Website: 

https://bit.ly/authorshantej2022

Meet KiOwana Eunique Phillips

Posted in New OnlineTagged , , Leave a comment

Although she has many titles, being a Published Author is near and dear to her heart. This goes hand in hand with her position with the Moebius Syndrome Foundation as a Board Director. KiOwana’s book is about her oldest son Khaleb. He was born with Moebius syndrome, a condition where the 6th and 7th cranial nerves in his face are paralyzed. Khaleb cannot smile or make facial expressions. KiOwana shares an intimate and emotional journey through the first nine years of his life. As a young mother, she learned to be resilient through trying times. 

From Khaleb being born with clubbed feet to choking in daycare, her story gives you a sneak peek into their lives. This book has gained popularity throughout the Moebius Syndrome community, schools, families, South Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky, and Arizona media.

Her goal is to help parents and family members of children with Moebius syndrome navigate the challenges that come with having a child with special needs and also spread awareness. 

When did you develop your love for writing?

I have always enjoyed journaling since I was in middle school. I pride myself on my penmanship and the ability to release my thoughts and imagination onto paper. 

What inspired your book? 

I endured many challenges being now only a young mother in the military but a young mother with a special needs child. Although there were many times when I felt alone, I knew there were others in the Moebius syndrome community that felt my heartaches. Not only did the story of my son’s life deserve to be heard because of how brave and resilient he was, but the need to spread awareness in the world about Moebius syndrome was also imperative. 

What message do you hope readers take away from this book? 

I want readers to take away information about Moebius syndrome, understand it, and tell someone else about this condition. 

Where do you hope to see your work in the next 3-5 years? 

I see a second book coming out about the teenage years of Khaleb navigating life with Moebius syndrome. I see my book in Barnes and Noble, and more people beyond the Moebius Syndrome Community reading it.

How can readers support the Moebius Syndrome Foundation? 

Readers can support the Moebius Syndrome Foundation by donating on their website.

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles? 

A Pretty Woman Who Hustles is someone true to herself. She has a vision for herself, her life, family, and business. She will have challenges along the way, but she will hold her head up high and keep pushing. 

Social media handles and Website: 

www.facebook.com/theboywhosmileswithhisheart

The Boy Who Smiles with His Heart (A Moebius Syndrome Story) https://www.amazon.com/dp/1304957934/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_A2XQ8F923C3HDTQYDFJG

www.itsabusylife.com 

Meet Author Michaella Conteh

Posted in New OnlineTagged , , , , , Leave a comment

Michaella was born and raised in West Africa, Sierra Leone, and moved to the United States of America at the age of 11. She grew up in Sierra Leone with her mother and sister and was always surrounded by families and friends. In Sierra Leone, Michaella was the child who wanted to be involved in everything and know what was going on with everyone. She always loved to help people and tried to make others happy. Perhaps that is why she chose Social Work as a career.

Michaella graduated from California State East Bay University in Hayward, California, with a master’s in Social Worker (MSW) degree and as a Title IV-E student. Michaella concentrated on Children, Youth, and Families.

Michaella has worked in the Child Welfare field for about six years. Michaella loves being a Child Welfare Social Worker. In Child Welfare, she has worked with the whole family unit, including extended families. Michaella enjoys working with service providers, school social workers, foster parents, and anyone else who will support the families. As a Child Welfare Social Worker, Michaella believes that families who come through the Child Welfare system need a great team of support, which Michaella tries to provide to the families.

When Michaella is not working as a Child Welfare Social Worker, she loves spending time with her husband and her adorable daughters. Michaella also loves to spend time with extended families and friends. Michaella loves to travel, and her favorite place to visit is West Africa, Sierra Leone, her home. Michaella tries to travel home frequently because she desperately misses it. Michaella’s motto in life is, “Positive thinking leads to a positive outcome.”

When did you develop your love for writing and sharing stories?
To be honest I never thought about becoming an Author or even writing a book. This idea of writing my book came to me at the beginning of 2021 and I just went for it. I am the type of person that, if I get an idea about something, I start doing my research and I go for it. I have always loved to read but did not think or believe that I could write a book.

What inspired your book “How to survive as a Child Welfare Social Worker”?
What inspired me to write my book is. I saw there was a need for a resource for upcoming child welfare social workers. Instead of complaining and saying that there should be a book out there about child welfare that is just not the textbook information, I created one. Before I started writing this book, I did so much research to see if a book like this was available and there was none. I can say that is the first non-textbook and easy-to-read book about child welfare.
My book is an actual hands-on approach from an experienced social worker, who shares the pros and cons of being a child welfare social worker along with insight on how to navigate the stages of this rewarding career.

What message do you hope readers take away from this book?
The message that I hope readers take away from this book is there is more to child welfare than they thought. Although it is a very challenging field to work in but, there are some positives about working as a child welfare social worker in the social work field.

Where do you hope to see your message take you next in your career?
I hope that I can provide training to agencies so that they can have more understanding of the child welfare field and the roles of child welfare social workers. I hope my book can be available at all universities in their department of social work program as a resource to the upcoming social workers. I hope that I can reach upcoming social workers who are thinking about working in the child welfare field. I want to be able to have more resources available to child welfare social workers.

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman WHO Hustles?
My definition of a Pretty Woman WHO Hustles is a woman that is a go-getter, goal-driven, risk-taker, advocate for herself, walk and talks like a BOSS, and has values and principles.

Connect on Social Media:

Instagram Social Media Handle: @childwelfaresocialworker

Website: https://linktr.ee/childwelfaresocialworker

Meet Author De’Landria Napier

Posted in New OnlineTagged , , , , Leave a comment

De’Landria is a poet and children’s book author with a passion for inspiring youth to confidently pursue their dreams. She is an active advocate of reading, writing, and speaking up. She is passionate about telling stories that will inspire and capture readers, while allowing them to take a break from the monotony of everyday life. In her free time, she enjoys reading, listening to music, going out with friends, and watching television. Her most recent project is a series of books to encourage children to explore what they love and turn those things into careers.

De’Landria is a smart, dedicated, and loving individual who has a great appreciation for family, friends, and her community. She also owns an online bookstore called The Abstract Bookmark, featuring publications of all genres in hopes of sharing more stories with the world.

At what moment did you realize you held a passion for sharing stories?

In 9th grade, we had a writing assignment to prep for one of our state exams. After reviewing my work, my teacher mentioned that I was really good at writing and that motivated me to try writing stories more often. The more I wrote, the more I loved it and wanted other people to read my work.

What inspired you to write for children specifically?

My childhood inspired me to write for children. I wanted to create more books to inspire children to pursue their dreams and passions no matter what anyone else says. If I could get this message to them at a young age, they have better chances of being more motivated and resilient throughout their teen and adult lives. 

What message do you hope families take away from your work?

I chose the title, “All the Things You Can Be” for my latest project because it speaks to the truth that there are so many careers available, and so many ways to live your life. I want kids to know they don’t have to follow a traditional path or do something just because others are doing it or telling them they should do it.

I hope that parents and teachers can use this book as a tool for sparking conversations about what children love, what they’re good at, and how they might turn those things into a career. 

Where do you hope to see your work in the next 3-5 years?

I hope to see my work on shelves all over the country and in homes across the globe. 

 If you could collaborate with anyone in the world who would it be and why?

I would love to collab with Tamela Mann. She has touched the lives of so many people and been able to be successful in multiple areas of business. It would be a great opportunity to learn from her and share new ideas. 

What message do you have for new writers?

I encourage all new writers to be persistent and consistent. The road to success is never easy, but dedication and a willingness to learn will help you get there. I know I’m still learning and it’s a long journey, but here are some of the things I’ve learned so far. Get into the habit of writing every day. Even if you only have time for an hour, write for that hour each day. This is especially important when you’re starting out. You need to get into the habit of writing before you can start worrying about what you’re writing about.

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles? 

A Pretty Woman Who Hustles is one who keeps the grind going but knows when to take a break and love on herself. She doesn’t do it for the accolades, she does it because she loves it! She knows that when you take care of yourself, you can be the best at whatever you do.

Please visit her website to learn more, request a book reading, or sign up to receive email updates.

https://www.instagram.com/theabstractbookmark/

https://www.abstractbookmark.com

https://www.facebook.com/The-Abstract-Bookmark-101518809152133

Meet Author Rashida Tshuma 

Posted in New OnlineTagged Leave a comment

Rashida is a born-again Christian who believes that the key to success is in finding your God-given purpose.

Rashida shares the message behind her work: “There is an old saying that says ‘’life is like a good book, the further you read it the more it makes sense’’. Marriage is one of the most beautiful institutions God has given mankind yet the most misunderstood and misinterpreted. As people we find ourselves making mistakes that end up ruining our lives or that of others. In this book, I share how I almost lost myself and destroyed myself because of marriage. How I was desperate for marriage, lost my worth, and reduced myself to nothing just so I can get married. I had forgotten who I was, ready to put my dreams on hold and change myself just so I can be marriage material and be Mrs so and so. I was terrified of being alone to an extent that I didn’t mind being disrespected and being willing to accept being treated as less than I am. Most of us find ourselves in bad relationships, enter into wrong marriages because afraid of being labeled as a spinster. That it is better to be disrespected than to be alone but we shouldn’t be afraid of being alone because there is power in rediscovering your own voice and finding your purpose. I hope that as I reveal my truth, inspire you to find yours, and in doing that you marry for the right reasons. Always remember: it’s a good life.”

We had the pleasure of chatting with Rashida to gain a true insight into the inspiration behind her work.

At what moment did you discover your gift for writing?
When I was young my older sister Bridget loved watching movies especially late in the evening but she was afraid of watching alone and she would ask me to watch with her. Because it was late after the movie was finished I would grab my blanket and go to sleep but my sister insisted that we wait and see who were the producers and writers of that particular movie. She used to praise and appreciate the people who were responsible for such great art and creativity of words. I used to find it strange that instead of praising the actors my sister would praise the writers and that made me think highly of writers and my love for writing started to develop. I wanted to be creative and I discovered my gift for writing when I was doing grade 12 when our English teacher gave us an unprepared test where we had to write about our school trip to Durban and how was the experience. It was a bit difficult for me because I had never been to Durban, I had to be creative and explain what Durban looked like and its beauty. A few days later he brought back our papers and I got 87%, that’s when I knew that I can write and I can be creative.

What inspired your title ‘’my pursuit of marriage’’?
The whole purpose of the book was to help women get married for the right reasons and to help women empower themselves and not be slaves of marriage. The name of the book was rather a teamwork effort, at first, the book was titled ‘’why should I get married’’ but after I gave my book to my friends for proofreading, they said the title of the book does not correlate with the content of the book. Because when you say ‘’why should I get married’’ then it gives one the impression that lessons or steps that one should take to get married are in the book where else the book is about your distorted desires of marriage and that’s where we agreed that I was actually running after marriage and the title my pursuit of marriage will do correlate with what is inside the book.

What do you hope women take away from this book?
Most of us find ourselves in bad relationships; enter into wrong marriages because we are afraid of being alone or afraid of being labeled as a loner that it is better to be disrespected than being alone but we shouldn’t be afraid of being alone because there is power in rediscovering your own voice, in finding your purpose or self-identity. I hope that as I reveal my truth inspire you to find yours and in doing that you marry for the right reasons. I hope that women will learn to love themselves and value themselves, be able to be independent, and be content with whom and what they are. I hope that women will be able to prioritize themselves and not allow outside influence to control them and to know that they can be anything they want to be in this world, to know that true happiness comes from within.

Where do you hope to see your work in the next 3-5 years?
I hope that my book will be global and reach as many women out there and maybe one day become a telenovela.

If you could give advice to the next generation of writers, what would it be?
Don’t do it for money, please do it for the love of writing, register for a course that teaches about writing and ask as many questions as you can, and be open for corrections and fair criticism.

What is your definition of a pretty woman who hustles?
My definition of beauty is not outer appearances but a woman’s beauty is defined by her strengths, personality, and character and for me, a pretty woman who hustles is a woman who works hard, smart and would do anything to get what she wants but never loses her values and principles while at it.

Support Rashida by purchasing a copy of her book “My pursuit of marriage: memoir”

Meet Author Patricia Thompson

Posted in New OnlineTagged 1 Comment

The Houston-based author and devout mother and grandmother yearned for a greater quality of life outside of Milwaukee. She adopted writing to overcome past trauma. After 26 years of writing 170+  poems in the comfort of her bedroom, Thompson prides herself on living consciously for the past five decades. With her beloved uncle as a long-time patriarch of the family and pastor for several decades, Patricia leaned on him as she navigated through life’s challenges. In addition to birthing the first installation of her literary work God Did What?, Thompson builds on her tenacity as a cancer and domestic abuse survivor to pursue her other life goals. Now, she passes time writing and creating memories with her loving family. 

When did you discover your passion for writing?
I was about the age of 17 or 18 yrs old coming into adulthood with responsibilities having to represent in the midst of adversities.

What does your creative process entail?
As a young child when most kids were out playing with kids my preference was hanging out with adult women in the community where I felt safe. Thinking back, each was sad and seemed to have suffered something traumatic. So in my child’s mind, I was there to cheer them up: sing, help with chores, or babysat while they ran errands. Through personal experiences or those of others, my motto became, “there is always a solution to the problem it’s in choices.,” Compassion for people particularly Children and the Elderly. My saying was, “those in between can fend for themselves.” to later learn that’s not always true.” So, from working with the elderly, owning a Child development center, Certified Addiction Counselor prep. receiving accreditation, to be a ParaEducator/ Special Ed. It is safe to say conversations and situations are my creative processes.

What inspired “God did what”?
God Did What?! was a process of a project. I would talk to God about people in time and current situations. We perceive things differently because of our beliefs and experiences than to commune with the “religious” only to get beat down while fingers are pointed and never getting directions or they’re why’s answered. There is a dire need to understand that Jesus as his word is true and that we are not here just to waste space silently.

GDW?! reads applied scriptures of biblical time to bring about an understanding that there really isn’t anything new under the sun, it’s just a different day. Through poems referring to situations of learning, scriptures are implemented as a creative but true fresh perspective with solutions to current circumstances that allow study. Without matter as to where you are in life; divorce, marriage, likes, and dislikes.

What message do you hope readers take away from your work?
Taste and see that the Lord is Good! My understanding is God is always up to something and that it’s always for the Good regardless.

Where do you hope to see your work in the next 3-5 years?
On the screens!

What is your definition of a pretty woman who hustles?
Because she’s a giver of her best. Beauty with passion is pretty!

Grab a copy of “God Did What?” Here on Amazon