March Madness has come to an end, but not without a bit of spice and a hint of joy in your life. Suzette Harrison is joining us on the final day to share her latest release, My Joy. She's giving away a My Joy water bottle. Leave a comment to be entered into the giveaway.

BLURB
Joy Matthews isn’t afraid of risks. She’s quit her Fortune 500 job and enrolled in culinary school, chasing her dream. Joy wants her own couture cake boutique. Pursuing her dream by day, Joy pays the bills working nights at The Hourglass—an exclusive gentlemen’s club catering to patrons who enjoy a little extra fine on a woman’s frame. Joy’s catching up to her dream when a chance encounter reconnects her with Quinton Daley, a childhood friend. Mutual attraction throws the proverbial wrench in Joy’s relationship-phobic, happily agnostic life. A goal-oriented woman who ‘doesn’t do men with Bible breath,’ Joy sees in Quinton a whole lot of what she likes but doesn’t need. Tall, chocolate-skinned, and born-again, Quinton’s Christianity poses a risk even the tenacious Joy isn’t willing to take.

Quinton Daley isn’t fazed. He’s a man of faith who’ll willingly wait on Joy to come to God…and him. When love and lust heat up, Joy and Quinton face a predicament. Will they indulge? Or abstain? Join this wild mix of custom cakes, a saved, sanctified and sexy man, and an obsessed patron from The Hourglass who’s determined to make Joy’s life a sticky mess. It’s a recipe for a read that’s wickedly witty and delicious.

“Why do you call me that?”

“What?” The man was cute even when confused.

“‘Baby’, Que. You realize you do, right?”

He shrugged. “Guess it’s just natural. You need me not to?”

I need you! No! No, no! No! Every devil was a lie. Joy Matthews won’t be needing a man. I might want one. But need? Thank. You. No, indeed. Indicating for Que to follow, I walked off the porch, preventing Mama and Miss Madeline further ear-hustling.

I stopped at my SUV parked in Mama’s driveway illuminated by streetlights and a full moon reflecting in Quinton’s beautiful eyes. “So, you find it natural for friends to call friends terms of endearment typically reserved for folks in romantic relationships?” I sounded weirdly defensive.

“Are you offended?”

“What I am is not wanting to get things twisted.” I crossed my arms, feeling myself morphing into militant mode. “To resume an unfinished conversation, there’s a mutual attraction between us. Right?”

 Leaning back as if to better see me, Que merely nodded.

“You’re unable to be booed up,” I continued, wondering at the source of all the heat in me. “Still, you’re flirtatious. You send signals and drop words like this is some quasi-relationship.”

“What signals, Joy?”

“Quinton, you just kissed me.”

The man had the nerve to laugh. “On your doggone forehead, Bab—”. He stopped, catching himself in the act. “Listen. Joy, I’m an affectionate man. If that’s problematic for you, I’ll apologize and pull back.”

Crazy thing is, I did but didn’t want that. Never thought I could get into anything not leading to horizontal between the sheets, but I liked the innocence of Que’s flirtatiousness, his gentle touches. They were without expectation, or demand. Giving. Not taking. But obviously, for me, that didn’t compute easily.

“Are you suspicious of me?”

Well…bam! There’s that. I’m sure these gold-speckled eyes reflected surprise at Que calling my craziness on the carpet. Suspicious? Maybe, yes. What would this man want from me if not booty? Sensual, sexual was the way I managed mine. Guess my question to self was: could I do differently?
 
“This here,” I made swirly motions between us, “is foreign territory.”

Que slid his hands in the front pockets of his jeans. “Are you afraid of that?”

“You do recall my telling you I don’t do relationships. Right? I wasn’t lying.”

Que flashed that sexy, one-dimpled smile. “I see that.”

“So what’re you after, Que? You’re saved. I need sex.”

Quinton laughed that rich, deep laugh again. “Dang, woman, can I just get to know you?”

“You already do.”

“Okay, Joy,” Quinton muttered, doing that head-tilted-hand-over-mouth-this-woman-is-cray-cray thing brothers do. Exhaling, he looked at me. “It’s cool. Let’s keep this one-dimensional for your comfort.”

“So now I’m shallow?”

Tossing his hands up, Que reclined against my vehicle. “You’re not gonna let a brother win for nothing!”

I had to laugh. “I can’t stand you.”

“Because?” he demanded, all innocent.

“You’re adding complexity to my uncomplicated life.” I fell silent before blurting, “You don’t get to be sexy as hell and a saved, sanctified Christian!”

Quinton was blushing and smiling. “So you were wanting to get with this, huh?”

“Whatever, Que…”

We stood there grinning and goofy. Que reached out a hand. I took it. We continued looking at each other, cloaked by the sweetest kind of silence.

“Why do you call me that?”

“What?” The man was cute even when confused.

“‘Baby’, Que. You realize you do, right?”

He shrugged. “Guess it’s just natural. You need me not to?”

I need you! No! No, no! No! Every devil was a lie. Joy Matthews won’t be needing a man. I might want one. But need? Thank. You. No, indeed. Indicating for Que to follow, I walked off the porch, preventing Mama and Miss Madeline further ear-hustling.

I stopped at my SUV parked in Mama’s driveway illuminated by streetlights and a full moon reflecting in Quinton’s beautiful eyes. “So, you find it natural for friends to call friends terms of endearment typically reserved for folks in romantic relationships?” I sounded weirdly defensive.

“Are you offended?”

“What I am is not wanting to get things twisted.” I crossed my arms, feeling myself morphing into militant mode. “To resume an unfinished conversation, there’s a mutual attraction between us. Right?”

Leaning back as if to better see me, Que merely nodded.

“You’re unable to be booed up,” I continued, wondering at the source of all the heat in me. “Still, you’re flirtatious. You send signals and drop words like this is some quasi-relationship.”

“What signals, Joy?”

“Quinton, you just kissed me.”

The man had the nerve to laugh. “On your doggone forehead, Bab—”. He stopped, catching himself in the act. “Listen. Joy, I’m an affectionate man. If that’s problematic for you, I’ll apologize and pull back.”

Crazy thing is, I did but didn’t want that. Never thought I could get into anything not leading to horizontal between the sheets, but I liked the innocence of Que’s flirtatiousness, his gentle touches. They were without expectation, or demand. Giving. Not taking. But obviously, for me, that didn’t compute easily.

“Are you suspicious of me?”

Well…bam! There’s that. I’m sure these gold-speckled eyes reflected surprise at Que calling my craziness on the carpet. Suspicious? Maybe, yes. What would this man want from me if not booty? Sensual, sexual was the way I managed mine. Guess my question to self was: could I do differently?

“This here,” I made swirly motions between us, “is foreign territory.”

Que slid his hands in the front pockets of his jeans. “Are you afraid of that?”

“You do recall my telling you I don’t do relationships. Right? I wasn’t lying.”
Que flashed that sexy, one-dimpled smile. “I see that.”

“So what’re you after, Que? You’re saved. I need sex.”

Quinton laughed that rich, deep laugh again. “Dang, woman, can I just get to know you?”

“You already do.”

“Okay, Joy,” Quinton muttered, doing that head-tilted-hand-over-mouth-this-woman-is-cray-cray thing brothers do. Exhaling, he looked at me. “It’s cool. Let’s keep this one-dimensional for your comfort.”

“So now I’m shallow?”

Tossing his hands up, Que reclined against my vehicle. “You’re not gonna let a brother win for nothing!”

I had to laugh. “I can’t stand you.”

“Because?” he demanded, all innocent.

“You’re adding complexity to my uncomplicated life.” I fell silent before blurting, “You don’t get to be sexy as hell and a saved, sanctified Christian!”

Quinton was blushing and smiling. “So you were wanting to get with this, huh?”

“Whatever, Que…”

We stood there grinning and goofy. Que reached out a hand. I took it. We continued looking at each other, cloaked by the sweetest kind of silence.

BIO
Suzette D. Harrison, a native Californian and the middle of three daughters, grew up in a home where reading was required, not requested. Her literary “career” began in junior high school with the publishing of her poetry. While Mrs. Harrison pays homage to Alex Haley, Gloria Naylor, Alice Walker, Langston Hughes, and Toni Morrison as legends who inspired her creativity, it was Dr. Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings that unleashed her writing. The award-winning author of Taffy is a wife and mother who holds a culinary degree in Pastry & Baking. Mrs. Harrison is busy cooking up her next novel…in between batches of cookies. 

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When two people know what they want, and they're both longing for the same thing...each other...the decision should be easy, right? It doesn't seem so in today's March Madness post. Join Ann Marie Bryan for another March Madness giveaway. Simply leave a comment on her blog post to be entered.

Crushed by heartache and desperate for an escape, he makes a life-changing choice.
 
When Chandler Peynard staggers into Sabrina Benjamin’s life, he is desperate for an escape route. Battling feelings of isolation, he has erected barriers around his heart, often times leaving a trail of broken dreams behind him.
 
Sabrina’s happily-ever-after was ripped away months ago, but she hasn’t given up on finding love. Still, she is caught off guard by her feelings for Chandler, a man who could hardly be described as a model man of God. As an unexpected bond develops between them, she wants more—a lot more than Chandler is prepared to give, because falling in love and putting down roots are not a part of his plan.
 
Touched by Sabrina’s kindness and faith, Chandler makes a life-changing choice; however, complication is inevitable when the past he’d thought was long buried, pushes him to confront matters he would have given anything to forget. As he struggles to release himself from his past and embrace the future, he offers Sabrina a place in his heart, but she demands all of it.
 
In a season that has brought so many changes, Chandler longs for peace in his soul and yearns for love. Will he trust God with all of his heart in order to overcome his past? Will he be able to testify that God’s grace wins every time? Will he find the strength to take a chance at life and love with Sabrina?

She rushed after him, desperation urging her on.
His hand on the door knob, Chandler swallowed hard, attempting to tame his desire. She was now standing behind him…way too close. “You were saying?” he asked, hoping his tone would not betray him.
“I want to-to…” Sabrina pushed out a frustrated sigh as she searched for the right words. “I want to hug you but I can’t. I mean, it’s best that we don’t.” She paused, and then anguish filled her voice. “Could you at least look at me?”
Chandler pushed his hands in his pants pockets and turned to look directly into her eyes, a look he’d perfected for professional settings. “You have my attention.”
She fought hard not to fidget under his gaze. “Don’t make this any more difficult than it is.”
He did not respond, but his eyes dropped to her lips, and he leaned in. 
No-no-no, don’t do that. Then, heat flushed her face. It was she who was on tip-toes.

Ann Marie Bryan is a dedicated, graceful, multi-talented leader with a passion for excellence. She is the CEO & Founder of Victorious By Design, an organization committed to providing top quality professional writing services, comprehensive personal and professional development programs and exceptional performing arts services to meet the unique needs of individuals and organizations.
 
A Christian Fiction author, Ann Marie writes to educate, inspire and empower others. She desires to tell great stories with fascinating characters to show the awesome power of God in the lives of people and places. Shades of the Heart is the first book in her bestselling, Encounters of the Heart series. Book 2 - Mirrored Hearts: Sealed By Fire was released February 2016. Her new release, A Place For My Heart, is the highly anticipated third installment in the series.
 
Ann Marie's greatest passion is to empower others to succeed by tapping into their God-given potential. She enjoys writing, reading, dancing, teaching, meeting people and traveling. With all the knowledge and experiences that God has so graciously blessed her with, Ann Marie is determined to make her life a ministry for the Lord.
 
 
LET’S STAY CONNECTED
 
Website: http://www.annmariebryan.com
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Email: abryan@victoriousbydesign.com

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It's March Madness Wednesday and we're going deep today. Deep into the meaning of life and death, and what lies beyond. Join us as John Clark takes us on a journey as he and others search for the purpose and meaning of life. Don't forget to reply to be entered into the giveaway.

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It's the final week of March Madness! Don't slow down the steam now. We're just brewing up the drama with Savannah Jackson's Raising Tristan. Today's giveaway is a $10 Starbucks gift card! Drop her a line to be entered into the giveaway.

Raising Tristan is a story of Shiloh Milner, a gentleman who is involved in a relationship with Angela Pitchard. Their relationship is purely for companionship; she doesn't love him, he doesn't love her.

When Angela who has made it clear she does not want children finds herself pregnant, Shiloh convinces her to have the baby. Twenty-four hours after their son, Tristan is born; Angela checks herself out of the hospital and disappears. With the help of his parents, and his new lady love, the beautiful Moselle Laveau, Shiloh devotes his life to caring for his son. But as time goes on will Moselle turn out to be all Shiloh believes her to be and will she be an asset in Raising Tristan.

Shiloh gripped Angela's hips pulling them higher, closer to his pelvis. His thrusts became more forceful as he felt himself nearing release. He'd already pleased her twice and now it was his turn.           

Although, Angela was nothing more than a regular booty call, Shiloh made sure she got hers. Shhhhh...he breathed out, as the air was forced from his lungs during his climax.           

When he was finished, he rolled off her and pulled her to his chest. He didn't love her but he loved to cuddle. Since he didn't have a girlfriend, for now, Angela would have to do.           

Shiloh closed his eyes and allowed the sweet euphoric feeling that always followed their intimate moments to wash over him. He was just about to drift off to sleep when Angela's voice pulled him back.           

"I'm pregnant."           

He frowned.

"What did you say?"            

"I said I'm pregnant." Her voice sounded flat to him.           

He took a minute to turn to her. Cupping her chin with his hand, he pulled her face towards his. How far?" He didn't doubt for a second the baby was his.           

"Three months . . . I don't want it." Angela looked him directly in the eyes when she uttered those words.           

Shiloh sat up on the side of the bed; this time he kept his back to her. "What are you saying, Angie? It's a little late to get an abortion, don't you think?"           

"Not if I lie."           

He stood slowly to his feet. His six foot three inch, 200 pound frame seemed to rise in deliberate motion to Angela. She'd never been afraid of or uncomfortable around Shiloh until now.           

"Are you telling me you're going to kill my baby? He has a heartbeat Angela.  His heart is beating . . . How can you do that?" His eyes narrowed as he spoke.           

"I never wanted kids; you know that. And what we have isn't exactly a relationship . . . we're . . "      

"Don't say it," he snapped, cutting her off. Shiloh hated it when she used the 'F' word followed by buddy to describe their relationship. He knew they weren't a couple, but to him they were more than that. Angela stood to her feet as well. She slowly made her way to the bathroom. Although her pregnancy wasn't very far along, the baby still pressed on her bladder. After relieving herself, she turned on the shower.           

When she finished, she dried off and got dressed. She grabbed her purse and car keys and headed down the stairs. Before she could open the door to Shiloh?s home to leave, he placed his hand against it stopping her.           

"This ain't over Angie." He spoke close to her ear. "You hear me? This conversation is far from over."           

"It's over for tonight," she replied softly.           

"Perhaps, that's so. But you better believe I'll be by tomorrow to finish this. You ain't killin' my boy."             

Angela remained quiet. All she wanted to do was go home and lay down. She knew there was no winning this argument at this point. She'd sleep on it and come up with a strategy in the morning to ensure she had her way; even if it meant disappearing. 

DOWNLOAD NOW:

Raising Tristan in paperback: http://amzn.to/2k0sNqd
Raising Tristan in eBook: http://amzn.to/2kC9ZxC

Savannah J. was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware in an Italian neighborhood affectionately referred to as "Little Italy". The unconditional love and support of her family and influence of her environment fostered her love and talents in the Arts. Subsequently, during her college years, she studied music and literature, which fed her passion for writing. She is the author of “Toward the Light” and the sequel “The Prodigal Son,” and “Behind Closed Doors.” She has recently completed two additional titles, “The Drama Don’t Stop Cause a Brotha Turns 50,” and the suspense thriller, “The Prey,” to be released in the summer of 2012. She is also the founder and organizer and co-host of The Annual Authors Literary Festival, which is held yearly in the Richmond Virginia Metro Area.  

  Savannah J. currently resides in Virginia with her son and family. For more information see her website at www.thesavannahjpublications.com or email her at savnhj@aol.com.  For more information on The Annual Authors Literary Festival visit the website at www.theannualauthlitfestival.com  “Toward the Light” is available at www.authorhouse.com  “The Prodigal Son,” and “Behind Closed Doors” are available through Savannah J’s website.

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Ambiance – Loving her husband, building her brand, and being there for her girls are the only things that matter to her. But she’s quickly learning that her love is not enough to build a strong, stable marriage. Surrounded by family, friends and business constituents should be enough; yet, she’s all alone. When her love isn’t enough to suffice her husband’s needs, Ambiance considers stepping beyond the vows and taking matters into her own hands, and the tragic results will have her running to God.

Naomi – As a teen she made the decision to be a single mother. Choosing to build her life around her daughter has molded and shaped all the decisions she has made until now. Her relationship with her daughter is highly valued and nothing can shake it, not even her daughter’s attempts to grow up. But when her daughter’s so-called “deceased” father comes back, Naomi’s carefully constructed world may begin to crumble. Her efforts to protect her child may be the one thing that pushes her away, and she must decide if she will open herself up to love again.

Paige- running from her inner demons she struggles to build a life vastly different than her mother and aunt’s. With a mindset of use or be used, she takes the concept of “love ‘em and leave ‘em” to a new level, and her promiscuous lifestyle is a cause of concern for all those who love her. She doesn’t care whose heart she’s breaking or whose life she’s ruining, it’s all about her. Until it no longer is.
Three women are on a journey of self-discovery, as they deal with the fallout from choices made from emotion rather than self-awareness.

Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey lives in the metro Atlanta area with her husband and three children, where she is an HR Professional by day. Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in the Almighty God, and belief in themselves. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods.

She hosts the annual 20 Days of Love authors’ blogging campaign, March Madness authors’ giveaways campaign, and showcases other authors on her blog at www.chelleramsey.com/beautifully-inspired-blog. She is a ghostwriter for romance authors. She also blogs for Liyahmore Publishing and Amore Speaks. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon.
 
LINKS:
WEB: www.chelleramsey.com
EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: Author Chelle Ramsey
TWITTER: @ChellesBooks
PINTEREST: ChellesBooks
INSTAGRAM: Chelleramseybooks

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Rose Jackson-Beavers is sharing an excerpt from her novel, A Sinner's Cry. All I can say is at the end, she left me with "WHAT?" It's another day of March Madness, and today's post is heating things up and it's getting a bit juicy.

Leave a comment at the end of the post to be entered into Rose's giveaway.

Denise Reese's life seems as if it is on a sure course to perfection until a single phone call crushes her reality and leaves her heartbroken and vulnerable. As she attempts to rebuild her shattered life, Denise seeks solace in the confines of the church that she'd walked out of years ago and swore never to return. As she struggles to gain redemption, the ringing of her phone continues to haunt her and impede her progress. In the midst of her struggles, she receives support from the newly appointed pastor, the handsome James Davis. While the two attempt to walk the right path, they must combat the lies and deception that those closest to them are spreading. Once Denise learns to decipher between lust and love, she realizes, even from a struggling sinner, God hears sincere cries.

Rinnnnnnng. Rinnnnng.
 
The sudden shrill of the phone jarred me awake. Pulling my hand from under the soft bed covers, I fumbled and patted the cherry wood nightstand in search of the sound that annoyed and interrupted my peaceful slumber. My fingers made contact with the hard receiver, as I lifted my head off my satin pillow and put it up to my ear. “Hello,” I groaned as if in pain.
 
The woman on the other end screamed, “Who is this?!”
 
I rubbed the sleep from my eyes while I averted a yawn. “You called this number, so you should know.”  I closed my eyes and lay back down.
 
“This is Jill Tate, you trick.”
 
 My eyes popped open as if a fairy godmother had sprinkled dust in them. All the sleepiness I felt was gone. My body sprung up to attention as I turned on the lamp. The bright light temporarily blinded me. My heart began to pound like little staccato drums being brutally hit. I took a deep breath and released the irritation that threatened to consume me. Finally, I asked, after reeling my voice back into control, “Jill who?”
 
“Tate.”  The woman smacked her lips like she was sampling a sour piece of candy. “You know who I am. I’m tired of you little tricks sleeping with my husband.”
 
“Sorry, but I think you have the wrong number,” I said as I rubbed my right eye.
 
“I don’t think so. I checked my phone bill and your number is all over it. Your trifling ass is sleeping with my husband, Darren.”
 
I sat straight up in bed and changed the phone from my left ear to the right one, trying to assure I heard what the woman had said. “Darren is not married, not the one I know.”
 
“Are you serious? Is that it? Really, is that all it takes for a man to get into women’s panties is to say he’s not married?”
 
“Sorry, but the Darren I’m seeing is not married.”  My heart was beating hard inside my chest as my left hand balled up into a fist. I needed more information. I tried to think of what would be a good facial distinction to share with her to assure she had the wrong number and wrong man. “Is the Darren you’re seeing a professor with green eyes?” 
 
“You’re not stupid. Yes, he has green eyes and I’m sure you knew he was married. All you skanks know. You’re just playing a role like you don’t.”
 
Silence.
 

Chief Executive Officer of Prioritybooks Publications grew up in East St. Louis, Illinois and received her Bachelor and Master degrees from Illinois State and Southern Illinois Universities. Rose is an inspirational speaker who is frequently asked to talk to youths and young adults about life issues.

She has worked with many teens throughout her community and has received numerous awards and recognition for her work in youth empowerment and publishing. She has worked as a freelance writer for A-Magazine, a St. Louis Publication, and The Spanish Lake Word Newspaper and as an Opinion Shaper for the North County Journal Newspaper.

Married for thirty-two years to Cedric, they have one daughter, Adeesha. Rose is the author of nine books. Her 2012 book, A Sinner's Cry was a finalist in the Religious Fiction category in, The Next Generation Indie Book Awards 2012. Her newest release through Urban Books is Full Figured 5 with Brenda Hampton remained in the top ten on Black Expressions Bookclub for several months. She has published over thirty authors and more than 100 books with many of the books becoming best sellers and award winning recognition. 


Purchase Books: http://www.amazon.com/ or http://www.barnesandnoble.com
Email: rosbeav03@yahoo.com
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Today's March Madness post comes from W Parks Brigham. I love, love, love her stories. They're full of the most real-life, down to earth characters you ever want to meet. She always drops a little sweetness in there to enhance the storyline.

Make sure you drop Ms. Brigham a line at the end of the post to be entered into her giveaway of a signed copy of True Love, and another book from her collection.

Thick and luscious Myra Watson was cute and educated with a great job and beautiful home. Like most of the young ladies her age and older in her hometown, Allanville, she was ready to become a wife and mother. The Matchmakers had already bombed out in matching her with her supposed soul mate. He was nothing but a two-timing lady’s man. Un-huh…she deserved better. Now, she’d solicited the prayers of the saints for her Mr. Right…Black Knight in shining amour.  Was that asking for too much?

Demrick (Rick) Hill had done it all, from hustling on the streets of Oakland to big balling with the best of them. Yeah, he had been labeled a thug, but he could proudly say he had never seen the inside of a jail…not even for a traffic ticket. How was he able to keep his nose clean? It was by the grace of God.  Due to tragedy and a close call, he was now ready to get his life right with a fresh start and a change of scenery by relocating to Allanville, Texas. 

As fate would have it, Myra’s prayers were answered, at least halfway…Thanks to her conniving friend; Myra was awarded three children and became an instant mother in one night.  And guess who came to her rescue? A pest from her past, Rick Hill. 

Lawd, what I’ma do? Mmm-uhm, be careful for what you ask for! ♥

 Myra was running late for worship service and had no excuse; she scolded herself as she pulled into the church parking lot.  It wasn’t like she hadn’t picked out what she was going to wear this Sunday.  Since she wasn’t doing nursery duty, she wanted to look extra special.  Okay, the real reason?  The two men she once upon a time had been engaged to would be at Allanville COC this morning.  Tommy Mitchell, her first love, had returned to Allanville to make it his home with his wife and family.  His cousin said he had even purchased a home in her subdivision.  Now, if that wasn’t a slap in the face!  And then there was Kane Atkins, who already lived in Allanville. She broke up with him six months ago, due to his infidelity. He even had the audacity to want her back after he was caught more than once with a different woman.  If the truth be told, she loved flaunting her new five-five curvy figure in Kane’s face.  Tommy, however, was a different story. 
             Yep, admiring her reflection in the mirror, she was now looking her DIVA self, if she had to say so.  Myra knew she was lacking in the natural beauty department, and had to work with what God had blessed her with. Make-up, the right hairstyle, and wardrobe were essential for her to be pretty; she was all right with that.  Her positive nature and easy-going personality were her drawing cards and strength.  She pulled her curls out around the brown and peach stretch headbands.  Although her natural hair was a snap to do, she still had to work with the side she slept on.  Getting out of the car, Myra adjusted the long-sleeve brown and peach vibrant print tunic she wore over the matching, side slits skirt.  The bold colors complemented her flawless and smooth silky dark butterscotch complexion. To complete her outfit, she chose a pair of brown, gladiator three-inch crisscross shoes, two kinds of long beaded necklaces of the same colors in her outfit, and peach buttoned earrings.
            “Good morning, Sis. Myra,” greeted Shelly and Cornelius, who were part of the welcoming committee for the month of October.  They made a striking couple in coordinating suits of taupe and black.  Shelly was one bold sister in her dress and hair style, in spite of her plus size figure and height.  She was every big girl’s role model and the envy of the thin sisters.  And Lord ha’ mercy, she had a husband who spelled the word f-i-n-e and adored every inch of her to no end.
            Myra knew there was someone out there for her.  She just needed to be patient and not latch on to the next man that was put in her path.  Moreover, she knew she shouldn’t be so easily conned by a little attention, or compliments for her dimpled smile.  Myra stepped inside the auditorium, and yes, the first person she saw was Kane Atkins.  She spoke to him and other members as she made her way to sit by her mother.  No sooner than she took her seat, Betsy Watson pointed discreetly to Tommy and his little family.  Naturally, they were sitting with his parents.  Although Myra had that nonchalant attitude working, she still stole a quick peek.♥
            What else could happen on this glorious Sunday? Myra asked herself as she pulled her jacquard animal print comforter back.  It was pretty with raised satiny stripes of light taupe over a strawberry background and a light solid taupe top.  Although she spent more money for it than she should have, she was glad she did.  It gave her dark walnut sleigh bed life while adding pizazz to her bedroom décor.  Removing the decorative pillows and shams, she said her prayers and got in bed.
             Still wide awake, Myra thought about the surprise she had when she went by her parents’.  The Mitchells had also been invited for dinner, Tommy and his family included.  She was polite and on her best behavior when he introduced her to his wife and children.  Myra had to admit, his wife seemed to be a very nice person whom she could really get to like.  His children were just adorable, especially the little girl.  She was already a daddy’s girl.  Maybe she could put the past behind her, and they could become friends again.  After all, it had been eight years, and she was certainly not in love with him.  At any rate, she participated in a little conversation and excused herself.
            Ring!
Myra looked at her caller ID and rolled her eyes to the ceiling.  It was Kane.  “Why are you calling me at this late hour?”
            “Myra, we need to talk,” said Kane, attempting to sound pitiful.
            She wasn’t falling for his innocent act and snapped, “About what?”
            “I miss you, Myra.  Can’t you find it in your heart to forgive me and give us another chance?”
            That was the problem with him.  Once she gave their relationship some serious thought, he never said the words I love you.  It’d always been I adore you, I want you, I need you, etc.  What was she thinking to accept his proposal? “No, Kane.  We’ve been through this before.  It’s over.”
            “That’s whatcha say,” Kane spat out.  “It’s not like you have brothers knocking at your door.”
            “What’s that supposed to mean?”
            “It means all men don’t appreciate a thick curvy sister, Myra.”
            “Kane, if I recall correctly, you did nothing but complain about my size.”
            “You’re right, I knew you could lose some of that weight and firm yourself up.  And you should thank me for the new and improved Myra.”
“You’re really full of yourself, Kane Atkins!”  Give me a break!  “I want you to make this the last time you dial my number with this foolishness.  Good night!”
            Myra pissed him off with her I’m all that attitude since she dropped a few pounds; he fumed as he listened to the dial tone.  One thing he’d never been able to do, and that was prey upon Myra Watson’s self-esteem.  Her father raised her to think she was beautiful and someone special. She didn’t need any man to stroke her ego.  That was one thing they had in common, inflated egos.  She was just the right size now and would look great on his arm.  Dang, he hated he didn’t handle her better than he did… With a smile, he voiced his thoughts aloud.  Just give her a little time, and she’ll be all yours.  After all, you are Kane Atkins. ♥
            “Hello, hello,” moaned Myra.  All she could hear was small children and a woman crying.  She looked at her caller ID, Tamia Travis.  “Tamia, stop crying.  I can’t understand a word you’re saying.  What has happened?  Are the babies all right?  Please tell me what’s wrong?” 
            Myra Watson was now sitting up in her bed with her feet dangling on the side.  She hadn’t seen or heard from her wayward friend and old college roommate with all her drama in two years.  Tamia Travis was awarded the title of being number one drama queen while they attended PVA&MU, and still was.  Tam, as she was called back then, had lived a reckless, unstable life.
Myra held the phone for what seemed like hours as she listened to Tamia rant through sobs.  All she could make out was…I can’t take anymore…I’m done.  But done with what? That was the question.  “Tam, I need you to pull yourself together and tell me what is wrong.”
            “Myra, I need you to come pick me up.”
            “Pick you up where?”
            “I’m in Hempstead at the truck stop.  I need your help!”
            “Momma, I eat,” whined one of her babies.
            “Shut up,” she shouted harshly.  Myra could have sworn she heard another different cry.  “I’ma whup yo azz.  I mean it.”
            “Tam, don’t, that’s not necessary!  Give me fifteen minutes, I’ll be right there.  Stay calm and please don’t hit him.”  Myra stuck her feet in a pair of shoes, grabbed her keys and purse, and was out the door with her cell phone.  She didn’t take time to change from her navy blue pajamas.  The cotton print bottoms and solid top with the same trim around the sleeves could pass for street clothes.  Her shawl would cover up her braless top, she thought as she pulled a cap down over her head.  Myra was shocked when she looked at the time.  It was almost twelve midnight and Tamia’s child was hungry.  She said a silent prayer before quickly backing out of her drive.  Myra headed straight toward the interstate as she begged God to protect the little fellow and give Tamia patience…
            That must be where the children are, Myra thought.
            “Tamia,” shouted the dude she was with.  “The baby is crying now.” Baby…
“Myra, I don’t have any stuff.  All we have are the clothes on our backs.  I had to leave in a hurry.”  She started to cry again.
            “No diapers?” exclaimed Myra. 
She shook her head no.
“Okay Tam, don’t cry.  We can stop by Wally World and pick up a few items for now.  You get the baby.”  It was just a sad ridiculous mess, thought Myra as she lifted the boys and walked over to her small compact car. She strapped the toddlers in the best she could, and shook her head in total disgust.  Minutes later, Tamia got in the back seat with the baby, her big purse, and a small grocery bag. Myra didn’t make a comment; she was just glad Tamia had enough sense to sit with the children.  There were no baby seats for any of them.  How did things get this bad? ♥
             Rick pulled into the parking lot of Wally World, but not before the sky released booming claps of thunder followed by streaks of lightening.  The rain would be next, he thought as he jumped out of his truck and rushed to the door.  One of the store managers stood outside to inform customers who were trying to grab their last minute supplies that the store was closed due to power outage. As soon as the power was restored, it would reopen.  Rick decided to sit in his truck and nap until then, since he was already out.  Another deafening burst of thunder; the sky lit completely up, causing him to have second thoughts like the others who were already leaving.  He would have to make out with what he had until tomorrow.  While he jogged to his truck to keep from being drenched, Rick noticed a sister in distress.  She was struggling with two large baskets.  Where were the attendants?      
            “Ma’am, can I help?”
Myra gasped when a man spoke from behind her.  The cashier told her they didn’t have anyone available for the moment and she didn’t have time to wait.  Turning around with pepper spray in her hand, she let go of the basket. 
He threw up his hands.  “I didn’t mean to scare you.  I just thought you could use some help, that’s all.”  He kept his hands up so she could see he was harmless, although his cap was pulled down over his head. ♥

W Parks Brigham lives in Houston, Texas and has two adult daughters. She’s spent her adult life teaching small children and loved every minute of it. She is now a retired (Halleluiah) teacher of thirty plus years and loves every minute of that for sure. Her main interest and hobbies includes active participation in her church, listening to her own radio station designed especially for her, playing spider solitaire, working bent and wiggly word search and Sudoku puzzles. She is an avid reader of every genre in the AA Romance category which has prompted her to write and self-publish her own with plus size women as the heroine.

            Therefore, it’s her honor and pleasure to invite you into her world of l women fiction with a contemporary Christian romance flavor.  She has penned twelve of the sweetest tales with plus size women as the heroine, touching your every emotion. Her heroines are beautiful, educated, and sophisticated with high self-esteem. They are not looking for a man to validate their worth…just love them for who they are.  Drama, the element of surprise with twists and turns, romance, and love are featured in each story. She considers her AA Romance stories in a class all by themselves with the Christian elements she tries to project in a positive way.
 
W Parks Brigham Author Page: www.amazon.com./-/e/B00G4IPAMU
 Website: http://www.wparksbrigham.com/.
 FB Author W Parks Brigham
 Email: wparksbrigham@writeme.com

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It's another inspirational day of March Madness. Today's author, Keith Taylor II, is helping our readers deal with rejection and overcoming the pain of a broken relationship. Leave your comment at the end of the post to be entered into the giveaway of a free copy of his book, and a $10 Amazon gift card.

Rejected but Still Prevailing will entirely change the way you view rejection. It will motivate you in ways you never thought possible. It will also provide some insight on where rejection starts and how to handle rejection from a girlfriend or boyfriend. Rejection will be shown from a biblical viewpoint also. You will laugh at different chapters seeing yourself in some of my experiences. You will learn and grow and be able to deal with rejection like never before. Your entire perception about dealing with rejection will be changed.

Purchase link: Amazon.com

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Carla Youngblood is kicking off our week with a bit of inspiration and empowering us to live victoriously by changing our mindset. It's another March Madness week. Reply at the end of this post to be entered into her giveaway!

Fragile minds exist because we struggle with trying to tell the mind what it already knows. The renewed mind is one that is accepting of the finished work of Christ. The fragility of our minds is necessary to push us to easily embracing the truth of our minds. Part of my own journey to this place of renewal, was being able to keep the process free of struggle. The work was to not give in to my thoughts that were contrary to what was already true about me.

Every day I was tested with thoughts which tried to persuade me to think differently. It meant that when the contrary thoughts came I had to search for another thought to think instead. I spent a lot of time reading Philippians 4:8. I had to allow my thoughts to go to my divine nature’s way of thinking and being. The work was for me to decide to come to a place called rest. We will talk more about this in another chapter.

A wondering mind will think about anything, it is subject to those 60,000 thoughts. I believe we are all just one thought away from victory or defeat depending on what you choose to think. If you want to renew your mind, the thought process must become intentional. You cannot afford to allow the mind to drift into places unguarded. The mind is so powerful, it will create whatever it wants.
 
Buy your copy:  http://www.designingwithcarla.com/products

Releasing Relationship Baggage is the 2nd book in the Simply Carla series. Carla shares how it is our responsibility to take action for things which no longer working in our relationships. Our family patterns are indicators of our style of relating to others. We can keep, revamp or change our style at any time, by letting go of the things which no longer serve a purpose in our relationships.

Buy your copy: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0986199516

Carla D. Youngblood is a master life coach, speaker, and author of three books. She is an expert at teaching women how to bring order and structure to their lives and build a life in preparation to meet life’s challenges. As a coach she works with women leaders in business and ministry, who need a place where they can share openly, without fear of retribution. As a preacher’s daughter she knows first-hand the necessity for leaders to honestly be able to share their stories. Carla believes that when women are able to care themselves they are better able to care of others; it is a philosophy she practices daily.

Website:  www.designingwithcarla.com
Fb Public Official page https://www.facebook.com/carladspeaks
Women Leaders page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/leaderswhoarewomen

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Today's March Madness brings a little suspense to the game! In today's lineup, we're showcasing an author who's new to The Beautifully Inspired Blog. Welcome A.D., and don't forget to reply to her post to be entered into the giveaway.

A.D. is a former elementary teacher born and raised in Chicago. Although she wrote short stories much of her childhood, she did not unlock and cultivate her passion as a writer until she became a writing teacher for middle school students. The more she had to create sample writings for her students, the more she realized her passion and ability to tell stories in the written form. She decided to hone her craft as a writer by completing her Masters of Creative Writing via National University. She now pursues writing books most of her time, in addition to being a flight attendant and substitute teacher.

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We all make choices in life that we will change our flow and vibe. Sometimes, others make choices that impact our lives. It's our decision whether we choose to forgive or forget. Paulette Jones shows us a love that has been tested by "choices."

It's March Madness and we're celebrating all month long. Leave a reply at the end of the post to be entered into her giveaway.

When I finally woke I didn’t want to open my eyes. I wanted to stay in his arms forever but I knew we were going to have to talk about what had happened. I didn’t know if that was the plan he had when he invited me over but I knew it was not in my plans. Then as if he was reading my mind I felt his lips on the top of my head and his arms tighten yet again around my waist.

“You know this is not what I asked you over here for right?” I stretched my arms above my head and pulled the blanket up to my chest so I could sit up relieved he said the words to answer my thoughts.

“Yea, I guess we just well I’m not really sure what to say.”

“Taye, I never meant to hurt you. And since we never truly talked about the situation and after that day we argued you completely shut me out I just figured you didn’t want anything to do with me anymore.”

“But how could you have that impression Brandon you never called, you never tried.”

“I know I didn’t I just I keep listening to all the wrong people who got in my head and it got crazy so part of me felt like you were just better off without me.”

“How?”

“I don’t know you seemed that way when I came home for Christmas break you didn’t even seem like you were affected in any way.” After that statement, I was fully paying attention to him and looking directly into his eyes.

“How, I didn’t even leave my house during my Christmas break. Me and Casey even went shopping for our gifts at night so I wouldn’t have to run into people.”

“I know I saw you two in the store. I think maybe you were getting something for your dad and brother because you were in the men’s section of Clearfield’s. You were holding up shirts and stuff laughing and you just looked happy. I wanted to come over to you but I thought since you were happy I shouldn’t so I just went the other way and got out of there as quick as possible.” There was sadness on his face that I had never experienced before.

“I don’t even really remember being in there, I’m sure I was I just know Casey was doing so much to keep my mind off everything and I was so grateful to her I think she was the one that suggested we go in there since they had those crazy Hawaiian shirts my dad always has on in the summer. Brandon, I have to ask you something I have wanted to know for so long and part of me even now is still scared to know the answer…but I had to take a deep breath to get myself together. What made you sleep with her, I guess the better question is why didn’t you use protection or think about me and stop yourself. How could you not think of me was there something better about her than me?” The words spilled out of me like a waterfall and I couldn’t seem to stop them. But if I was being honest with myself I felt a full sense of relief wash over me after they were out. I could see he was processing his thoughts and what he would say in response to my question. But I couldn’t help but think back to last October. 

The me I am is the me I was born to be. It's my thing it's also how I live if I wasn't born to be this person then I wouldn't be here. It's that simple and it makes life so much more fun to live. It even drives my writing and the things I actually develop and released.

My specs are simple really, graduated high school, got my degree, found a job and started figuring out life. The realization that thirty-five was knocking on my door led me to sit down with my laptop and get out all the thoughts running through my head. For years like many others, I'm sure I found every reason not to write and now I can't seem to find a reason to stop. I'm a positive mind even when life isn't headed down a positive road anyone that knows me would agree with that. I genuinely love escaping into the world of words. May they be the ones of a new or favorite author or my very own I love the entire process.

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Facebook: @wordsbyladyp /Author Paulette Jones
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Eartha Watts Hicks is heating up the month of March and adding a bit of spice of her own. Love Changes gives us the story of a young mother torn between two men, her baby's father and her best friend. What is a woman to do?

Tell Eartha how you would handle this hot situation. To be entered into her giveaway, simply leave a comment at the end of this post.

Ten years in the making, the debut novel by Eartha Watts Hicks infuses original poetry, song lyrics from 80's and 90s popular music, and prose in the narrative of Mia Love, a twenty-six year old single mother. Mia Love quits college to support her live-in boyfriend, Spider. When she becomes pregnant, her mother, his mother, and Romell, her handsome and flirtatious best friend, all think she has made a bad decision. Now, Mia cares for both her newborn son and Spider. Tethered to a low wage job to pay the bills, she's urging him make a commitment. Spider, himself underemployed, remains resistant. This causes tension between the two, with arguments getting more and more personal. Meanwhile, "good friend" Romell is offering a shoulder (and a lot more) to lean on. What ensues is a love triangle with a unique twist, two men vying for a lady with a baby.

Today's March Madness post is all about getting you out there. I believe this is one of the most valuable tools a writer can use. I have used it and I am still finding new nuggets LaShaunda has shared to implement into my marketing plan. It's a green plan that never grows old. What is it? It's all about relationship building.

To be entered into LaShaunda's giveaway, don't forget to reply at the end of this post.

Database/Email List – Mailing List

Creating a database/email list is the third most important thing you do as a writer. You probably started with your email services, saving the  emails you received. This is a good way to  start.

However, eventually you will have to create a spreadsheet or pay a database service to keep all your information. I suggest you do both. You always want to have all your readers’ information.

A few email management systems are free to use for the first five hundred contacts, but will charge a fee for one thousand or more. Do your research and find the one that fits your budget. Ask your writer friends which ones they use. Which one is user friendly?
 
To promote your email list, include a link or form to join your list on your website/blog. You want readers to opt-in instead of you adding them to the list. If you do add them, make sure they know you are adding them to your mailing list. You don’t want them to accuse you of spamming them. You want happy readers.
 
Your mailing list is your #3 promotion tool.

1.  It can introduce you to new readers.
2.  It can keep current readers informed.
3.  You know who your readers are and how to reach them.
4.  You own this list, which is very important.
 
A lot of writers rely on outside sites to gather their readers (Facebook, Twitter,  Goodreads, etc.). These are all necessary sites when it comes to promotion. However, if that site were to shut down tomorrow, how would you get in touch with all your followers?

This is why it is important to have your own mailing list. You want to be able to get in touch with your followers at all times.
 
How you create your mailing list is up to you. Back in the day, I had mine on my Yahoo! email. When my mailing list grew larger, Yahoo! kicked me out of my account because it thought I was spamming.

So I started investigating email management systems. I decided on Constant  Contact.  However, there are many more out there like (icontact, aweber, Mailchimp, or Mad Mimi).
 
This is where your friend, the search engine, comes in handy. Do your research and find the system that fits into your budget. Don’t be intimidated by the various rates. Some offer free services until you build your list. Remember, you’re  not going to start with a list that has one thousand members on it. You begin low and work your way up. Hopefully by the time you have reached ten thousand, you’re making the kind of money to pay for the ten thousand, you services you need.
 
HOW TO USE YOUR MAILING LIST FOR PROMOTION
 
I use my mailing list to introduce readers to writers by sending out eblasts and newsletters. You can do the same thing.
 
1. You can create and send out an eblast to introduce your new book.
2. You can create a monthly newsletter.
3. You can create eblasts for monthly sales.
4. You can host contests.
5. You can host workshops.

Get your copy – http://bit.ly/BORLCH

LaShaunda C. Hoffman took her love for books and turned it into an award winning online magazine, Shades of Romance Magazine.  Her mission in life is to introduce as many books as she can to readers. She’s happily married mother of three who believes in dreams and working hard to achieve them.  She published her first book, Building Online Relationships – One Reader At A Time. It is a part of her coaching program – Virtual Tea With LaShaunda were she teaches writers/businesses how to be consistent with their promotion by helping them create an actionable promotion plan to build online relationships.
 
 Catch her online:  lchwriter@gmail.com SORMAG - http://sormag.blogspot.com, See Ya On The Net, her personal site - http://lashaundahoffman.com , Facebook -facebook.com/lashaunda.hoffman or Twitter – @lashaundaH - @sormag
 
Personal - lchwriter@gmail.com SORMAG – 1sormag@gmail.com
 
Pinterest- https://www.pinterest.com/lashaundahoffma/
 
Instagram – lashaundahoffman
 
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Click here to receive her weekly promotion newsletter – See Ya On Net

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Freebie - A Social Media Buzz Ad (Book promotion Meme)

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Smooth. Sensual. Sexy. Sheryl Lister's delivering it all up today on this new edition of March Madness. Take a peek at her novel, Giving My all to You! For a chance to win her giveaway, don't forget to reply to Sheryl at the end of this blog post.

Blurb for Giving My All To You:
 
Faith Alexander’s guardian angel has a body built for sin. Ever since she woke up in the hospital after a car crash, her rescuer, Brandon Gray, has been by her side—chivalrous, caring and oh-so-fine. Faith came to Los Angeles to find her long-lost father, only to learn that he’s a partner in Brandon’s family business. How can she reveal that her inheritance stands in the way of Brandon’s career dreams?

All Brandon’s focus is on his long-coveted role as CEO—until he stops to help a mysterious beauty. With chemistry this irresistible, he’s ready to share a future with Faith, but he feels beyond betrayed to discover what she’s been hiding. If desire and trust can overcome pride, he’ll realize he’s found the perfect partner in the boardroom and the bedroom...

 
Before she could set the phone down, it rang again. Her smile faded. Brandon. She debated whether to answer or let it go to voice mail like she had done last night. It rang twice more. She heaved a deep sigh and answered.

“I know I’m the last person you want to talk to right now,” Brandon said before she could utter a greeting. “But please don’t hang up, Faith.”

“What can I do for you Brandon?” She tried to remain unmoved by his sincere plea.

“I want to apologize for all the things I said last night. I had no right to take my frustrations out on you. I—”

“No, you did not,” she said bluntly, cutting him off. She had done nothing to deserve his tirade and she wasn’t giving him a pass.

He sighed heavily. “You’re not going to make this easy, are you?”

“Why should I?”

“Faith,” he started again.

“Look, Brandon. I know you’re used to women falling all over you, letting you get away with saying whatever you please, then accepting a half-assed apology. Well, I’m not one of them.”

“No, you’re not,” Brandon said quietly. “And if you’d let me get a word in, I’d like to try to make things right.”

“Go ahead,” she mumbled, slouching down in the chair and folding her arms.

“Thank you. I am truly sorry for my harsh words. Believe me, baby, they were never meant for you. Sometimes—well, all the time if you ask my family,” he added with a wry chuckle, “I tend to speak without thinking. I’m really trying to work on it. Faith, you are unlike any woman I have ever met and I don’t want to mess up what’s happening between us.”

Faith sat up straight. What did he mean by that? There wasn’t anything happening between them, was there? Granted, her feelings for him had been growing from the moment she woke up in the hospital and saw him sitting in the chair, but did he have feelings for her, as well?

“Please forgive me.”

How in the world was she supposed resist when he was playing dirty with that sexy voice and earnest confession? “Okay.”

“I can’t promise I won’t shove my foot in my mouth again, but I will try.” Silence rose between them.
 “So, does this mean we’re still on for tomorrow evening?”

She had forgotten about their date. “Yes, And that surprise better be good. Better than good.”

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2g93i2f

Sheryl Lister has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. She writes contemporary and inspirational romance and romantic suspense. She’s been nominated for an Emma Award and RT Reviewer’s Choice Award, named BRAB’s 2015 Best New Author and 2016 Breakout Author and Black Pearls Magazine’s 2017 Author of the Year. When she’s not reading, writing or playing chauffeur, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers and bite-sized desserts. Sheryl resides in California and is a wife, mother of three daughters and a son-in-love, and grandmother to two very special little boys.

Contact info:
 
Website: www.sheryllister.com
Email: sheryllister@gmail.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sheryllisterauthor/
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/1Slynne

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What happens when a woman finds herself in a situation similar to the one that caused her to leave her husband? Does a woman's heart truly belong to the new man, when her spouse was the love of her life? Only time will tell, and reading today's March Madness post.

LaShawn Hewlett Wilson is packing the heat and drama on today's March Madness. Reply to be entered into the giveaway for a copy of Forbidden Fruit and an Amazon gift card!

Rayne Armstrong was blissfully married to her childhood sweetheart Rashard and she thought she had it all- perfect career, perfect looks, perfect home, and the perfect husband. So when her marriage came crumbling down due to Rashard's infidelity, she felt her world was turned upside down. Rayne begins to feel her life spiraling out of control, and she is grateful her family and best friend are there to help her pick up the pieces.
 
Devastated by her divorce, Rayne promised herself she would avoid relationships because they were too complicated—until her instant attraction to sexy and handsome Bryce Underwood, a successful Real Estate Broker caught her off guard. Unexpectedly, she finds herself becoming emotionally involved but there is just one problem- he is married.

Rayne finds herself in a vicious love triangle as she struggles with her burning desire for Bryce and still being in love with Rashard. Then there is the wildcard Troy, whom is determined to win her heart which throws her into a whirlwind of pleasure and anguish. All hell breaks loose when secrets are unveiled, and Rayne emotions began to collide. Torn between the world of love and temptation, will Rayne finally realize which man is truly the one…?

The present…
 
Rashard and Rayne were curled up on the floor naked. Tender moans had faded away in the distance and the smell of sweet sex lingered in the air. They were basking in the afterglow of their love-making activities. Rayne was panting as if she had just run a 100 yard dash. Rashard was nibbling on her ear lobes, making trails of kisses on her neck, and repeatedly whispering how much he loved her.
 
Rayne sat up from Rashard’s embrace and looked around the living room that was filled with moving boxes. The sun was streaming through the blinds, giving the dim room lighting. The canyon brown paint on the walls had a somber tone from being bare. Her life was picture perfect. Rashard was a civil engineer and was taking over his father’s engineering company. His father took an extended leave of absence to take care of his ailing wife. Rayne successfully opened up her own real estate company. To put the icing on the cake, she and Rashard were moving into their first home. What more could a woman ask for? Rayne was on cloud nine.
 
Rayne loved her husband more than life itself. In her eyes, he was the perfect package. Besides being so damn fine, he took good care of her financially and sexually. They started dating in high school and off and on throughout college. Rayne started to remember how they were destined to be together from the moment they went on their first date.
 
Her parents promised that when she turned sixteen she could start dating. They didn’t have their first date until their junior year in high school when Rashard got his driver’s license. She would never forget how Rashard was so nervous when he asked her out to the movies.
 
“Would you like to go see that new Eddie Murphy film, Nutty Professor II this weekend?”
 
Rayne was tickled watching Rashard fidget with his hands while she slowly contemplated her answer. She couldn’t believe he had the jitters asking her out on a date.
 
“I don’t know…I have to check my calendar…it depends on if my mom don’t need me around the house. I’ll get back with you later.”
 
“Ok then,” Rashard said sounding so pitiful.
 
Rayne fell out laughing, and finally decided to put him out of his misery and responded, “I would love to go out with you this weekend. I was just kidding.”
 
He rolled his eyes but gave her a cheerful smile. “You love giving me a hard time.”
 
“I do because I know you like it.” Rayne said, batting her eyelashes. She could tell by the way he blushed and stared at her with his soulful eyes.
 
Saturday had finally arrived and Rayne was rummaging through her closet trying to find the hottest, cutest outfit for her first date. She decided on her mini denim skirt, tight pink printed tee, and wedge heel sandals. Her hair was pinned in an up-do, face immaculately done, accessories on point, and her nails and toes were polished in hot pink. She pulled out her strawberry lip gloss from her purse and applied it to her lips. She looked herself over in the mirror, marveling at her stunning look that was sure to make Rashard drool.
 
Rayne’s mother walked into the room, breaking her concentration from the mirror. She stood up and spun around so her mother could see her outfit.
 
“You look beautiful, baby.” Her angelic smile made Rayne feel good. She walked closer to Rayne and gently touched the side of her face. “Too bad your father is not here to share this experience with you. He would be so proud of how his little girl has grown up to be respectful, intelligent, and beautiful.”
 
Six months had passed since the death of her father. His death had briefly put a strain on her relationship with Rashard, not to mention it was hard for her, her mother, and brother to cope with their loss. Tyreke was staying on campus. It was his freshman year at Old Dominion University. It was just Rayne and her mother, but they got to see Tyreke every other weekend, during breaks, and when the campus was closed for holidays.
 
Rayne hugged her mother tightly. “Thank you momma, I love you.”
Thirty minutes later, Rashard arrived at her house. He looked too damn fine in his blue jeans, white tee with the word Converse written across the front, and a fresh pair of all white Chuck Taylor sneakers. 
 
They arrived at the movies where they ran into all their friends. Rayne saw Kenya and Zoey who were hugged up with their boyfriends. They managed to get in five minutes to gloat over their boos and complement each other on how good they looked in their outfits before returning to their dates.
 
The first hour of the movie, Rayne and Rashard watched the movie sharing popcorn and Goobers, laughing hysterically at Eddie Murphy, but the remainder of the movie they were engaged in heavy kissing and necking. The date ended with them going to Byrd Park. A lot of teenagers frequented there because they saw it as a romantic spot to make out in the back seat of their cars. They climbed in the back seat of Rashard’s Nissan Sentra where heavier kissing, necking, and Rashard fingering Rayne took place. The park was closing at nine and although they had thirty minutes, they spent the rest of their time making love. When they finished, Rayne looked deep into Rashard’s eyes and said, “I love you.” Not only did Rashard tell her he loved her back, but he gave her a beautiful customized initial gold necklace. He put the necklace around Rayne’s neck, and tears trickled down her cheeks making her realize he was the one she wanted to spend the rest of her life with…
 
Links to purchase book: https://www.amazon.com/Forbidden-Fruit-LaShawn-Hewlett-Wilson/dp/0615610501/
 
Giveaway Items: A free copy of the book with a $10 Amazon gift card.

Passion for writing books has always been in LaShawn’s heart.  Her debut novel, Forbidden Fruit” has been described as a “wonderful” love story filled with suspense and drama. La ’Shawn loves writing romance novels because she says it’s nothing like creating a story surrounded by erotica, suspense and drama, which portray characters burning with lust, love, and passion.

LaShawn’s focus is to inspire many readers with novels that will allow them to capture the essence of every sultry, raw, and passionate story, bringing a new, fresh, and exciting outlook to romance writing.  The sequel, Forbidden Fruit 2 was released on September 11, 2015. LaShawn Hewlett-Wilson is CEO/Founder of Bittersweet Publications, LLC., and resides in Richmond, VA  with her husband and three children.


Contact Information:
Facebook Fan Page: Bittersweet Publications
Twitter: www.twitter.com/BittersweetPub
Instagram: Misslala2U
Website: www.lashawnhewlettwilson.com
Email: bittersweetpub@yahoo.com

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March Madness is blazing up a trail of fire throughout the month of March. Today's featured author, K.K. Harris is here to show you why.

Leave a comment at the end of this post to be entered into the giveaway.

Kanika K. Harris was born and raised in Little Rock, AR. She attended and graduated from the historical Little Rock Central High School in 1999. Kanika is married to her wonderful husband of nearly ten years and mother of three, two boys and one girl.

Writing has always been a passion of hers since middle school. Deciding in 2011 to pursue that dream full-time and turn that dream into a reality, she released her debut release Love Drug. When she isn’t writing she spends the remainder of her time alongside her husband running their catering and janitorial businesses. Love Drug was only the beginning with three additional novels following all through self-publication. This is only the beginning, she looks forward to continuing the dream with future concepts. 

Although she considers herself as an urban fiction novelist she has uncovered her talents in writing in several other types of genres. Currently her work would be labeled as romance, urban, fiction, and street-lit genres. According to the readers that she has reached on wattpad.com, the ages range from 18-40 years of age. The romance of the stories are detailed and in some cases graphic to paint an accurate picture for the reader. The characters are forced to show a deeper connection along with their sexual relations. She aims to connect with her readers through the characters, men and women, by touching on multiple angles of a relationship.

authorkkharris@gmail.com


https://www.facebook.com/authokkharris


https://author-kkharris.com/

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March Madness gears up with the concept most of us are familiar with. Not quite grown enough to be indulging in "grown-folks stuff", but too old to be completely innocent of all we've seen, heard, or thought about. It's called "Womanish!"

Angelia Vernon Menchan is delving into that concept today, and you have the chance to win a signed copy of Young...But Grown...Womanish, journal and #JustLove book bag. Simply reply to be entered to win! Read on...

Angelia Vernon Menchan is wife, mother, nana and mentor. Since January 2006, she has published 17 books and an additional 33 ebooks through her small publishing company, MAMM Productions. She is also the Co-founder of Honorable MENCHAN Media, through which she has published books for other authors. Her personal motto is, ‘There is abundance through God for all of us; we simply have to be open for our blessings.' She resides in Jacksonville, Florida with her husband and cover designer, Maurice Menchan.

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Day 7 of March Madness has arrived and I'm up again. Yes! Today my birthday celebration continues, as I share my upcoming release: A Woman's Design Afflictions! This book is scheduled for release later this month.

Leave a reply on the post to be entered into the giveaway! I'm giving away an eBook copy of one of the books in The House of BeJeweled series...Your choice.

Ambiance – Loving her husband, building her brand, and being there for her girls are the only things that matter to her. But she’s quickly learning that her love is not enough to build a strong, stable marriage. Surrounded by family, friends and business constituents should be enough; yet, she’s all alone. When her love isn’t enough to suffice her husband’s needs, Ambiance considers stepping beyond the vows and taking matters into her own hands.

Naomi – As a teen she made the decision to be a single mother. Choosing to build her life around her daughter has molded and shaped all the decisions she has made until now. Her relationship with her daughter is highly valued and nothing can shake it, not even her daughter’s attempts to grow up. But when her daughter’s so-called “deceased” father comes back, Naomi’s carefully constructed world may begin to crumble. Her efforts to protect her child may be the one thing that pushes her away, and she must decide if she will open herself up to love again.

Paige- running from her inner demons she struggles to build a life vastly different than her mother and aunt’s. With a mindset of use or be used, she takes the concept of “love ‘em and leave ‘em” to a new level, and her promiscuous lifestyle is a cause of concern for all those who love her. She doesn’t care whose heart she’s breaking or whose life she’s ruining, it’s all about her. Until it no longer is.

Three women are on a journey of self-discovery, as they deal with the fallout from choices made from emotion rather than self-awareness.

A WOMAN'S DESIGN: AFFLICTIONS  EXCERPT

I received a call from Naomi around three that afternoon asking me out to dinner after work. I suggested she come to my place instead. I was still dragging and too tired to put up with people in public. She informed me that Ambiance would be coming along, as well.

I ordered Chinese to be delivered so that no one had to cook. It would be quick and simple. Naomi and Ambiance rode over to my condo together, arriving just before seven.

“Hey girl, did you see your car?” Naomi asked, gesturing over her shoulder to the parking lot behind her.

“What do you mean?” I asked, panicking and feeling as if I couldn’t catch my breath. I ran out the door with my two friends hot on my heels.

When I arrived in the parking lot, tears fell from my eyes. Not because my baby had been attacked, but because of what it represented, hate, evil, anger, and rage.

All four tires had been slashed, and the front driver side window had been bashed in. On the front windshield, $0.02 had been scrawled, and on the back windshield, the word “ho” had been spray-painted.

“Who in the hell did you piss off?” Naomi asked.

“I don’t think it was something she did. It looks like the work of a horny teenager. Paige, which one of those babies on your job you been teasing again?” Ambiance laughed.

I turned tear-filled eyes her way and shot her a venomous look.  I was in no mood for jokes. I knew who had done this, but I had no way to prove it.

“Come on, honey. Let’s go back in the house, and you can call the police to file a report. If for nothing else, at least for insurance purposes,” Naomi coddled. “And you need to take out a restraining order if you know who did this.”

I sniffled and shook my head okay. I was consumed with rage and couldn’t think straight.

After we called the police and filed a report, my next call was to the insurance company. They would send someone out first thing in the morning and also have a rental car delivered to me.

“So, what’s going on, girl?” Ambiance asked, tucking her feet underneath her on the floor where she sat.

We finally had a moment to sit down and dig into our food. I didn’t have much of an appetite and toyed around with it. I would probably have it for my lunch on tomorrow at work.

“David, the guy I met at the conference on workplace safety a year and a half ago…” I began, and then spooned a small bite of food in my mouth.

The ladies nodded their heads, assuring me they remembered him and wanted me to go on.

“Well, I broke things off with him, and he obviously didn’t take it too well.”

“I thought you weren’t in a relationship?” Naomi queried.

“I’m not. It was just one of those things, you know?” I shrugged it off, hoping to leave the subject alone.

“Was he getting attached to you like Vic?” Ambiance questioned.

“Mm-hmm…but he doesn’t even have the right to be jealous. Being a marr—” I cut myself off, realizing what I was about to say. I hadn’t meant to allow that to leak.

“Come on, Paige…don’t tell me he’s married?” Naomi probed, quickly picking up the vein of conversation I had purposely dropped.

I looked all around the room, avoiding the gaze of my two friends. I felt so ashamed, I didn’t know what to do.

“Paige…Paige, look at me. Is he married?” Ambiance demanded.

As I shook my head yes, she let out a deep breath. I knew she was furious, especially knowing she had issues with her husband and his infidelity. I didn’t mean to hurt my best friend. Ambiance stood up and
walked to the bathroom off the hallway.

“Paige, what were you thinking?” Naomi asked me.

“I wasn’t thinking, Naomi. Truthfully, I didn’t care. It’s only been lately that it started to bother me. To be honest, it was one day when we were together that she called him and he forced me to look at her face on his phone while he continued to do it to me. That was the first time I felt any shame,” I revealed.
I sighed deeply, not knowing what my girl was going through. I pointed towards the bathroom. “I never meant to hurt her, either,” I shared.

“She’ll be okay. She’s got her own issues to deal with,” Naomi stated. I shook my head, figuring she was referring to Eric’s affairs.

“Well, I’m glad you learned your lesson. I am assuming you don’t plan to do that again?” she asked.

“No. I’m tired, Naomi. And truth be told, I don’t think it’s over. Now, he has his wife to deal with.”

“What do you mean?” Naomi asked. At that moment, Ambiance walked back into the room. Her eyes were red, and we knew she had been crying. When Naomi moved to comfort her, she put her hand up, stopping her.

“I’m okay. I really am. And it’s not you alone, Paige. Everyone has choices to make, and that man made some poor choices, too. But go ahead with your story.”

“Are you sure?” I asked.

“Yeah, I am. Finish telling us what led to this,” Ambiance encouraged.

“Well, he was upset with me, because I got a call about one of my babies who had run away. I had to leave and sent him home.” For some reason, I didn’t share with them what he had done to the mirror in my master bathroom. Maybe because that was too personal. Everyone knew I had been sleeping with the man, but somehow sharing that information was putting it out on a different level.

“Oh, no, is she okay?” Naomi asked. Naomi and Ambiance both knew how much the children I worked with meant to me. Even if they were only around for a short time, they were the most important thing in the world. They were what kept me whole and gave my life any substance, the possibility that I could make a difference and give someone a shot in this thing called life.

“Yes, we found her. All is well with that. But I didn’t get back home until four-thirty this morning. He was calling me no sooner than I got in and then at my door when I refused to answer. He started banging on it and kicking it when I refused to let him in. I threatened him with the police, told him I was packing, and nothing I said would deter him. He acted a fool in the hallway, until some of the men in the building got him out of here.”

“But why did you say you didn’t think it was over, and he has his wife to deal with?” Naomi asked.
I looked at Ambiance. I didn’t want to upset her any more than I already had, and I was sure this next confession might do just that. She sensed my hesitation and pulled her eyes from her lap, where they had been focused, to look at me.

“I’m okay, Paige. Go ahead and tell us what happened,” Ambiance stated.

“Well, in the midst of him acting a fool, I called his wife.”

“How did you get her number?” Naomi asked.

“The day he forced me to look at her picture on his phone while he had sex with me, I saw it, and that number stayed in my head. So anyway, I called her and put her on speaker and turned on the house intercom. She could hear everything he said. I said some things to him to calm him down, and he started talking intimately. Then I got on the phone with her and I told her. Call me selfish, but a part of me felt she needed to know,” I said, attempting to justify my actions.

“Damn!” Ambiance said. She stood up and was rubbing her arms up and down. I knew she was trying to get control of her emotions and thinking of her own troubles with her husband.

“What did she say?” Naomi asked. She was not only worried about Ambiance, but I could tell she was worried about my state of mind, as well.

“You know, she was furious and I could tell that she was hurt. But I swear, I didn’t do it to hurt her. I did it to help her. She needed to know. If she chooses to stay with him, that’s her business. But at least she knows what’s going on in her marriage.”

“Did you use protection?” Ambiance’s voice came out a little shaky.

“Always,” I replied. I didn’t feel as if I owed anybody that explanation, but I knew where her question was coming from. If I could offer anything to ease her pain for what she was going through, I would give that to her.

“I wish someone had told me.” Ambiance muttered that under her breath, and I barely heard her.
Naomi simply nodded her head.

“Look, I know you two look at me one way. We see life in different perspectives, and I don’t judge you about the routes you choose to go. So, I just ask for the same respect,” I shared.

“That’s not fair,” Ambiance began. “You’re always judging me. You talk about how you wouldn’t put up with the stuff that I go through with Eric. You talk about how you’re going to use them up before they use you and you wouldn’t be sitting home at night alone, crying while you know he’s with another woman.”

“And that’s true, I wouldn’t. Hell, but that’s how I feel. I don’t get you, Ambiance. You’ve known that man was sleeping around on you before, but not only did you stay with him, you still put up with his mess. You don’t have a life, because everything is centered on him. If he wants you to stay at home alone…then guess what you do? I won’t be sleeping with a married man again, but I won’t be letting them make a fool out of me, either. And that’s exactly what you do every time you let Eric get away with that. I just wish my sisters would wake up,” I stated matter-of-factly with a simple shrug.

Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey lives in the metro Atlanta area with her husband and three children, where she is an HR Professional by day. Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in the Almighty God, and belief in themselves. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods.

She hosts the annual 20 Days of Love authors’ blogging campaign, March Madness authors’ giveaways campaign, and showcases other authors on her blog at www.chelleramsey.com/beautifully-inspired-blog. She is a ghostwriter for romance authors. She also blogs for Liyahmore Publishing and Amore Speaks. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon.
 
LINKS:
WEB: www.chelleramsey.com
EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: Author Chelle Ramsey
TWITTER: @ChellesBooks
PINTEREST: ChellesBooks
INSTAGRAM: Chelleramseybooks - See more at: http://www.chelleramsey.com/beautifully-inspired-blog/march-madness-happy-birthday-chelle#sthash.u5VMlZX9.dpuf

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It's the 6th day of March Madness and today is also my 44th birthday! I'm celebrating it with you, all month long, by hosting other authors and their giveaways.

Relationships are a joint effort and commitment of two lives coming together in love and unity. Yet, sometimes the heart of one is still pledged to another, preventing the one from loving the person they're with. In the words of the old O'Jays song, Your Body's Here With Me, but your mind is on the other side of town.

My excerpt from BeJeweled: Standing Strong is just such a case. I'm giving away a signed copy of BeJeweled: Standing Strong and a $25 gift card today.

I just need you to comment on this post to be entered into the giveaway.

BLURB:

Olivia has overcome many challenges and disappointments in her life. Yet, when faced with an unexpected death of a family member, and witnessing the murder of someone she cares for, she isn’t sure she can survive. The losses incurred on this journey may cause her to pay the ultimate sacrifice.

The return of Black and Kianna means the puzzle pieces of Angel’s life are finally locking into place. The picture is different than she envisioned. Angel must determine if uncovering the truth of their past, is worth the sacrifice of her new relationship.

Kianna’s played dirty in the past, but this time the fight is deadly. She’s willing to go all in to expose the truth, which will cause everyone in the game to ante up. Will her sacrifice be more than she bargained for?

Black’s gambled several times in the past, but this time the stakes are high. With his life and those of his family serving as the bargaining chips, it isn’t that easy to fold. To protect those he loves the most, he may have to sacrifice his own life to save theirs.

Angel. Kianna. Black. In the end everyone must bear their cross. And the truth is so explosive, the House will never be the same. One will stand strong and walk away. One will stand strong and make the ultimate sacrifice. And one will stand strong and won’t survive!

 
Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey lives in the metro Atlanta area with her husband and three children, where she is an HR Professional by day. Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in the Almighty God, and belief in themselves. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods.

She hosts the annual 20 Days of Love authors’ blogging campaign, March Madness authors’ giveaways campaign, and showcases other authors on her blog at www.chelleramsey.com/beautifully-inspired-blog. She is a ghostwriter for romance authors. She also blogs for Liyahmore Publishing and Amore Speaks. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon.
 
LINKS:
WEB: www.chelleramsey.com
EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: Author Chelle Ramsey
TWITTER: @ChellesBooks
PINTEREST: ChellesBooks
INSTAGRAM: Chelleramseybooks

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We're kicking off the second week of March Madness with my dear author friend and fellow ATL resident, Unoma Nwankwor. Stardom and fame comes with a hefty price, sometimes the cost requires your very soul. What happens when your desires and God's destiny for your future collide?

It's day 5 of March Madness. Leave a reply to be entered into Unoma's giveaway...

He Changed My Name
 
Book Title: He Changed My Name

Publisher: KevStel Group February 12, 2016

ASIN: B01B786XFE

Genre: Christian Fiction Romance

Author: Unoma Nwankwor

About the Book: Eager to escape the hypocrisy of the church and build her singing career, pop sensation, Ayanti “Yanni” Effiong enters and wins The Next World Star. Apart from fulfilling her dream, her move to America offers the perfect opportunity to help young female immigrants. A cause she pursues with a passion until fame takes over. Fifteen years later, broke, dumped and fresh out of jail, she begins to regret the lifestyle and name she created for herself.

Mensah Afortey is on the brink of losing the church he put his heart and soul into for the past seven years. This years’ Valentine Day gala is his last attempt to raise money for the church. Everything is set but they need a big name to pull in donations. Just as he is about to give up, in walks “Yanni.” When he agreed for Ayanti to serve community service under his church he didn’t know she was the same person as the embattled star.

While she pays her debt to society, the last thing she wants to do is perform on a day that left a bitter taste in her mouth. But there is no denying the instant attraction between them. Before he wins her heart, Mensah must win her soul. Over time and in fellowship with the church, Ayanti comes to realize that despite what man calls her, God has the ability to change her name.

Excerpt:
 
The shrill ring of her phone brought her back to the present. She sat up against the headboard. Her heartbeat accelerated as she answered the phone. It was Debby.

“Please give me good news.”

“Hey, chica,” Debby responded. “I hope you’re doing better.”

Earlier, Ayanti had a breakdown. She had screamed and bawled her eyes out, wishing she was back in Calabar, the capital city of her home, Cross Rivers in Nigeria. It seemed like a lifetime ago she won that competition and left the country.

“Yes, I’m fine, but tell me I can be better.”

“Okay, here’s the deal. Charity for Homes had filled up with court ordered volunteers until next month…”

“I can’t wait that long!”

“Lemme finish, girlie. We were able to get you to volunteer with them not as an individual, but under a church group.”

“A church!” Ayanti wiped her hands across her face. She hadn’t been in one of those in years. Did Debby have any idea the kind of judgment that went on in that place? She’d take her chances with the mean police officer until next month.

“Hear me out. The church volunteers with Homes for Charity as a non-sponsor group. You can be part of those volunteers and when they are not volunteering, you can still make up some hours by working in the church. That way, you can get this thing over with faster. Now tell me that doesn’t beat picking up trash in the streets,” Debby finished.

“But those people would have known what I did. Why I’m there...”

“And? Which one of them there hasn’t done anything bad?” Debby asked. “Girl, think about it. Besides, you have nothing else to lose at this point.”

“I guess you’re right.” Ayanti contemplated the whole arrangement.

“Of course I am.” A beat of silence passed between them. “Now get some rest and I’ll see you tomorrow. Think about it and let me know what you want to do. You have until the end of the week.”

“What’s the name of the church?”

“Ummm...hold on.”  The shuffling noise of paper could be heard in the background. “It’s called Calvary Is the Way. It’s on Auburn.”

Ayanti remained silent for a few minutes. After a while they disconnected. Ayanti switched off the television and turned to her side. Calvary Is the Way? She rolled her eyes. These new age churches and their names. What ever happened to churches with sensible names? Like Mount something...

© 2016 Unoma Nwankwor
 
Purchase Links
 Amazon: http://amzn.to/23xHqjD

Born in Akron, Ohio to Nigerian parents, Unoma Nwankwor spent her childhood and early adulthood years in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria. She possesses a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and a Master’s degree in Global Management. Her publishing credits include An Unexpected Blessing (2013), The Christmas Ultimatum (2013), When You Let Go (May, 2014), A Scoop of Love (Jan, 2015) and Anchored By Love (Dec 2015). Her work has appeared in Africa Book Club, USA Today HEA blog and The Kenyan E-zine; Wamathai.  Her stories are described as a fusion of faith, romance and African spice. Unoma is also the co-owner of KevStel Group LLC and resides in Atlanta Georgia with her husband and two children.

Social Links
Website: http://www.unwankwor.com
Blog: http://www.unomanwankwor.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/unwankworauthor
Twitter:  www.twitter.com/unwankwor

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March Madness is in full spin and we're keeping your weekend going with a dose of love and forgiveness. Today, Suzette is giving away a Kindle copy of both Trembling Hearts and Mended Hearts. All she needs for you to do is comment...

Excerpt of Mended Hearts
 
Lezlie frowned as she gazed at her cell phone. Three days had gone by and she hadn’t heard from Jason. Every time she called him, the call rolled over to voice mail. He wasn’t returning her texts either.

Frustrated, she tossed the phone on the nightstand before going into the bathroom to take a shower. Here it was a Friday night and she was all alone. Turning on the tap, she stepped in, not caring that the water was a tad bit too hot. Tears mingled with the falling water as she replayed their last conversation in her mind. Maybe she shouldn’t have shared with him how her folks felt about their budding romance. But he hadn’t seemed upset with what she told him. If anything, he came off as very supportive.

“What happened?” she wondered aloud. This pain was worse than Earl’s betrayal. She thought she and Jason had connected on so many levels. What was it about her that turned men off?

She thought he was different. She believed him when he said he wouldn’t hurt her.

The running water drowned her sobs as she went on with her nighttime routine.

She shut off the faucet, stepped out the shower and began to dry off. Towel wrapped around her body, she padded to her bedroom. Her eyes were drawn to the cell phone like a magnet to metal. A glutton for punishment, she tried calling again. This time the phone rang several times until it went over to voicemail.

What kind of game was he playing? Whatever it was, she wasn’t having it. Anger replaced sadness as she dialed again. Who did he think he was, treating her this way? No more! She wasn’t letting another man trample over her again!

The chiming doorbell startled her. She looked at the phone in her hand, trying to decide if she should go see who was at the door or cuss Jason out. At the beep, she said, “I’ll get back to you later!”

Blood boiling, she didn’t think to put on a robe as she marched to the front door with nothing on but a towel. Nor did she bother to look through the peephole before yanking the door open.

“What do you—”

With his hands in the pockets of his leather bomber jacket, Jason lifted a thick brow. “Do you always answer the door dressed like that?”

Eyes wide, Lezlie looked down at herself. “Oh my God,” she shrieked, jumping behind the door.

Jason stepped across the threshold, dropped the duffle bag he was carrying, before he closed and locked the door. Staring down at her, he smiled before pulling her to himself. She didn’t fight him as he slanted his mouth over hers, kissing her hard and deep.

Breaking the kiss, she remembered that she was mad at him. She placed her hands against the wall of his chest and pushed him. It didn’t do any good though, because he held on, not budging.

“Jason, get off me.” Her voice broke when she said, “I’ve been trying to call you for three days.”

He hugged her close, hating the hurt in her voice because of him. “Babe, I’m sorry. I’ve had a lot on my mind and needed time to think.”

This time, he didn’t hold her when she pushed away. With her chest heaving, she shot back, “That’s no excuse for not answering my calls or texts! You could have at least texted me back saying so.”

He took a few steps to close the distance so he could lean down and nuzzle his nose on her damp, soft curls. He loved the floral fragrant shampoo she used. It was delicate and feminine, like her.

“You’re right. I should have called you back,” he murmured, leaning down further to kiss her neck. Man, she smelled wonderful.

Lezlie’s nipples hardened and she moved closer in hopes of assuaging the sensual ache between her thighs. She shuddered from the thick bulge in his jeans. Goosebumps popped up all over her body when he held her waist and picked her up so that her breasts were at his eye level. She shivered as his cold fingers gently pulled down the towel, exposing a light brown, puckered nipple.

Jason’s tongue circled the tip of her nipple before drawing it between his lips. He took his time savoring her and then moved to the other breast, treating it to the same carnal torture.

She didn’t care that the towel was falling from her body and any second, she’d be in all her naked glory. Slender fingers cradled his head to her breast as she wrapped her legs around his waist. The things he was doing felt so good. She didn’t want him to ever stop.

“Jason, please…”

She didn’t have to finish what she was pleading for because he wanted it just as badly.

She moaned in disappointment when he lifted his head to gaze into her eyes.

“Are you sure about this? Because once I start, I won’t be able to stop.”

She tugged her kiss-swollen bottom lip between her teeth, nodding her consent. She let out a wanton breath. “I’ve never been surer of anything in my life.”

“Which way is the bedroom?”

She pointed down the hall. “Back there.”

When he turned and began walking with her in his arms, she tried stopping him. “Jason, your leg.”

She didn’t miss the flash of annoyance in his light eyes. She ducked her head, not meaning to question his manhood. “I’m sorry.”

“I got you, baby.” He assured her, taking solid steps in the direction of her bedroom.

He didn’t give any thought to the feminine character of her bedroom, which was decorated in white and lavender. All he cared about was making sweet love to her in the queen size bed.

Balancing her with one arm, he used the other to pull back the comforter and sheet before gently laying her on the bed. His actions reminded him of another time, not so long ago, when he laid her on a bed. Back then, he would have never imagined he’d be with her in such an intimate way.

He reached down and pulled the towel from her body.

Suddenly self-conscious, Lezlie covered her breasts with one arm and her belly with the other. She turned her head toward the wall, wishing he had cut the lights off first.

Slowly shrugging out of his jacket, he murmured, “Don’t do that, Lezlie. You’re beautiful the way you are.”

When she turned to gaze at him, tears were in her eyes. “Thank you, Jason.”

The adoring smile caused her heart to melt in her chest. “You’re welcome.”

She watched as he stripped down to his underwear. She let out a long, slow breath. Yup, she knew the rest of him would be just as magnificent. The scar running along the outer part of his left leg didn’t detract from the perfectly sculpted muscles. Those predawn workout sessions in his basement gym certainly were not in vain.

When he pulled his boxer briefs down the length of his long, muscular legs, she couldn’t help looking at the massive erection, her eyes growing wide with terror.

Jason stood gazing at her, reminiscent of a Grecian warrior. “Are you alright?”

Nodding her head, she managed a soft, “Mmm-hmm.”

But her mind was in shambles. No! I’m not alright!

The bed dipped under his weight as he joined her. Lezlie nibbled her bottom lip as his fingers stroked her satiny thighs.

“Are you going to turn off the lights?”

His fingers continued to caress her when he asked, “You want the light off?”

“Please.”

Her breath caught as his fingers stilled and his gaze locked with hers. “I enjoy making love with the lights on.”
 
Maybe it was an ego thing, but Jason felt an intense sense of satisfaction watching a woman come to completion. He especially wanted it with Lezlie, but he wouldn’t push the issue for now. “This time I’ll let you have your way.”

She breathed a sigh of relief when he got up and turned out the lights.

As he rejoined her on the bed, he didn’t waste time but parted her lips with his tongue as he delved deep inside her mouth. He needed to taste every nook and cranny. Breaking the kiss, he trailed his lips down between the valley of her breasts.

Lezlie moaned and writhed from the touch of his hands, lips and tongue. She squirmed and giggled when his tongue dipped into her belly button. She had no idea she was ticklish in that area. Tiny beads of sweat formed on the bridge of her nose as he moved lower. Her hips bucked when the tip of his tongue slowly licked, and then separated her nether lips.

His large hands grasped each of her hips to hold her still. From her reaction, he could tell this was her first time engaging in oral pleasure. The thought of it made him want to throw his head back and howl, releasing the alpha beast inside.

He took his time pleasuring her. Each time she was about to release, he eased up, prolonging the sweet torture just a little longer. He could tell from her ragged panting that he was driving her insane.

Writhing beneath his mouth, Lezlie wanted to scream. She’d read about this, but never experienced it. The building pressure in her womanly core came to a point where she felt like she was about to free fall over a cliff. Each time she was about to fall, he’d let up. This happened three times too many. On the fourth occasion, she dug her nails into his scalp holding his head in place. She could have sworn she floated out of her body when he sucked her clit deep into his mouth, knocking her over the cliff, sending her body into uncontrollable spasms.

Thighs trembling, she was gasping for air when he came up kissing her hard and deep. Her body seemed weightless as Jason used his knee to gently nudge her legs wide so he could settle himself between them. His thickness and length sent an anticipatory thrill of anticipation through her.

Jason broke the kiss and as his eyes adjusted to the darkened room, he gazed at her flushed face. It pleased him that she was gazing back at him. His knuckles grazed the satiny skin of her cheek while he nuzzled the side of her neck and murmured, “I want to take my time with you.”

The thick muscles in his arm trembled as he balanced himself on one arm and used his free hand to guide his throbbing manhood to her slick center. He peered deep into her dark eyes as he slowly eased the tip inside her before coming to a stop.

A tear rolled down Lezlie’s cheek. Not from the exquisite pain, but because her secret was now out. She'd never told him because she was too afraid of what he would think of her.

A virgin? His eyes went wide and he remained motionless, wanting to make sure he wasn't pushing her into anything she’d regret in the morning. “Are you okay? We can stop if you’re not ready.”

All she could think about at the moment was that this man was too good to be true. She nodded her head. “I’m fine, please don’t stop.”

Lowering his mouth to hers, he kissed her as he took his time burying himself inside her. The fit was so tight. All he wanted to do was withdraw to the tip and thrust deep in her until they didn’t know where one began and the other one ended. In time…that would come in time. Just the thought of it nearly sent him over the edge.

If she ever had any doubt that he loved her the way she loved him, it was banished out the window and told never to return again. She knew her first time would be painful, however, his gentle lovemaking was making it all worth it.

Jason took his time with her, coaxing her to relax in his arms. “Baby, let go and let me love you.”

“I want you to love me.”

“Then let me.”

With one hand, he squeezed her hip, encouraging her movements.

Forgetting about the pain, she allowed him to guide her until she was in sync with his rhythm. That building pressure was starting to overtake her again.

“Oh gawd…oh gawd…oh gawd,” she panted before going head first over the cliff.

Jason hissed an expletive. “That’s it baby.” Throwing his head back, he bathed her womb with his seed. Damn!

Collapsing on top of her, he rolled over with her in his arms. Lezlie snuggled into his embrace as he kissed her forehead.

“Are you okay?”

She giggled. “Of course I am. What about you?”

The smile crumbled from her face when he grimly said, “I hope you feel the same in the morning.”

Other Books by Suzette Riddick
 
It’s My Turn
Baby Love
Written as Victoria Wells
A Special Summer
When Love Comes Around
Key To My Heart
Second Chance at Love
The Sweetest Love

Suzette Riddick's (formerly known as Victoria Wells) love for the romance genre is what encouraged her in 2008 to write her first novel A Special Summer. After receiving positive feedback from readers she was inspired to write the sequel, When Love Comes Around. And before she knew it, the Love Conquers All Series was born. From this series Second Chance at Love was nominated for an Emma Award. Currently, Suzette is working on a new series titled Love at Last.

Although reading and writing are near and dear to Suzette's heart, being a wife, mother and nurse practitioner is what bring her the most joy. 

Check out Suzette's website at http://www.suzetteriddick.com. And check out her books written as Victoria Wells at amazon.com/author/victoriawells

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I recently read today's March Madness book and I just completed part II. When I finished, I knew that I wanted this author on the March Madness campaign, because I wanted everyone to experience what I did.

All I can say is "Rah, oh, Rah!!! Mmm-mm-mm!!!" You'll have to read on and please do yourself justice by leaving Ms. Mary Finley a comment, to be entered for your chance to win her giveaway. She's giving away a copy of Thicker than Blood I & II!

You won't be disappointed. It's day 3 of March Madness and a Fabulous Friday!

Thicker Than Blood1 Book Blurb
 
Veteran police officer, Gerald Lamar Jr., is a man of strong moral conviction, who seems to have the perfect life: a gorgeous wife, two wonderful, intelligent, college age children and a seasoned career on the police force. His righteousness takes a hard blow and his American dream becomes a nightmare, however, when his brother, Ramon "Rah-Money" Lamar is brutally murdered. Gerald is forced to remove his rose colored glasses and gets sucker punched by a triple dose of betrayal.
 
Handsome playboy, Patrick "Tip" Collier, is known as a sharp dresser with a sharp tongue. He is the city's most notorious private investigator, and also who Gerald considers his worst enemy. Tip gets information dropped in his lap that puts him smack dab in the middle of the investigation of Rah-Money’s murder.
 
When these two men team up, no stone is left unturned, and Gerald discovers that throughout his entire life, he has trusted people who were one thing to his face and another behind his back. His immediate family has kept him completely in the dark. Investigation into this crime leads him into the light.
 
As a truck load of past deceits are uncovered, Gerald and Tip unveil the darkest Lamar family secret of all. In the end they're both faced with one crucial question: If blood is thicker than water, is true love thicker than blood?
 
Thicker Than Blood is a murder mystery novel that reveals how generations of lies and secret sin can cause a family devastating and irrevocable damage.

THICKER THAN BLOOD EXCERPT:

Prologue
December 2003

 Eight months after being arrested for brutally killing his wife Natalie, King Jackson was sentenced to twenty-five years in prison for second degree murder. Natalie’s sister, and brother-in-law, Camilla and Gerald Lamar, had gone back to their regular routine. Their two children, Trey and Celeste seemed to have adjusted well after their aunt’s funeral.

Gerald took a month off work after the burial and spent most of that time giving Camilla as much tender love and care as he could. He thanked God for the morning she woke up and announced, “I’m ready to get back to my rounds at Shady Grove.”

Lately Camilla had been coming in later and later from the hospital.

Gerald knew it was her way of dealing with the loss of Natalie, so he didn’t complain. The day after King was sentenced, Gerald got up from his evening nap to find his wife singing in the kitchen. She had prepared a dinner of all his favorite foods, and the dining room was sparkling with the best china they owned. After dinner when they made love, the tension that had become a familiar, but unwelcomed guest in their bedroom, was finally gone. He arrived at work an hour later, full of turkey and dressing and full of Camilla. The grin on his face was a telltale sign to his partner.

As soon as Gerald sat down in the squad car, Officer Kendall began roaring with laughter.

“What’s wrong with you, Carl? Tell me what’s so funny so I can laugh too, man.”

“Please, Gerald, the only time you smile that big is when Camilla whips it on you like a lion tamer.”

“Yeah, you wished you had it this good, don’t ya, partner?”

 “Only if it could come without that noose called a wedding band, my brotha.”

 Carl and Gerald had been riding together for twelve years. The police crew down at the precinct no longer recognized them as two separate people. They were simply referred to as G. C. Many of their comrades, in jest, said the letters stood for Gangster Cops. Gerald didn’t particularly care for that handle, jokingly or otherwise, but he had to admit he and Carl had a way of getting certain snitches to sing when all others failed. They never engaged in police brutality, but rather developed a reputation for trading favors with the street literate folk. Being on the graveyard shift, G. C. came into contact with just about all the filth the city had to offer. They knew they had to keep their game tight or be eaten alive.

“Hey, Carl, chief left me a note on my locker. Guess what?”

“What’s that, man?”

“That scum who killed Nat is requesting a visit from me.”

“Man, get out of here, for what?”

“I don’t know and I don’t give a damn. It was all I could do not to jump his punk ass in the courtroom and strangle him to death. Naw, he don’t wanna see me. He just don’t know it.”
Gerald and Carl both fall into silence. In fact it is an unusually quiet ride. Seems the night life has taken a holiday. Around 4 A.M. Chief Shirley Sinclair’s voice blasts through their radio, interrupting the appreciated silence.

“Lamar, Kendall, come in.” It is a rarity that the chief calls in a crime at that hour. Whenever she does, Gerald and Carl know serious shit has gone down.

“Yeah, chief, we hear you, what you doin’ out of bed?”

“No time to play, Kendall; Lamar, you listening?”

“Chief, go ahead. We’re all ears. What’s going on?” Gerald is uneasy because there’s something in Sinclair’s voice he’s never heard in the fifteen years they’ve worked together.

 “Gerald.” Sinclair rarely calls her officers by their first names.

 “You’re making me nervous, Shirley, please spit it out.”

 “You need to get to your brother’s shop on Payton, ASAP.”

 “What?”

 “Lamar, now, you need to get here now!”

Three minutes later, Gerald and Carl pull up into the parking lot of Ramon’s Repair and Detail Shop. Black and whites are all over the place, sirens glaring. FBI, CSI, ambulances and the medical examiners are already on the premises. Carl brings the car to a screeching halt and Gerald jumps out, sprinting towards the front door.

 “Lamar, stop him, chief,” yells Carl.

 Sinclair turns around just in time to see Gerald heading her way. She orders a couple of her crew to hold him back from the entrance.

"No, tell them to let me go, Sinclair. I gotta go see about Ramon.”

Sinclair puts both of her hands on Gerald’s face to focus him.
 
“I, I only got one brother,” Gerald pleads. “Come on!”

 “Gerald, when we got here, he was already gone. I’m so sorry. We couldn’t do anything for him.”

Carl comes up from behind and puts his arms around his partner. “He’ll be all right, boss. I’ll go in with him.”

Sinclair nods, signaling the officers blocking the way to let them through. Carl holds a tight grip on Gerald’s shoulder as they move forward.

There are a number of people swarming about Ramon’s detail shop. Most are in his office. To Gerald the room looks like it normally does. Then he turns to his left where the sofa is stationed and everyone and everything else vanishes.

“Oh, damn . . .” He sobs as he approaches his brother’s corpse.

 “Aw damn you, Rah, what did you do man, what?” Gerald sits down, lifts Ramon’s head and lays it in his lap. All activity in the room halts momentarily. Heads bow all over the shop. Gerald sees two gunshots to the chest were the demise of his brother. He begins to rock from side to side. “Rah, you got to get up, man. Tomorrow’s Saturday, remember?
We got a bet to settle on the greens.” More sobs.

“Rah, come on, man. You’ve pulled some fast ones on me before, little brother, but this shit ain’t funny. Joke’s over. Get up, man. Stop wasting these folks time!”

 Carl starts to move closer, but Sinclair puts her hand up. “He’s got to do this alone.”

“Aw, please get up.” Gerald presses his hand against his brother’s. “I am your blood brother. I will never leave you . . . nor forsake you. I will . . . never leave . . . you nor forsake you.” The dam breaks. With tears streaming, he kisses Ramon’s hand, leaving his lips crimson.

Carl’s heart can’t stand the scene anymore. He motions for Chief Sinclair to come outside with him. “Boss, I need to call Camilla. I’m sure she can get him to let the crew finish their work.” Sinclair hands him her cell phone. He dials Gerald’s home number and doesn’t get an answer so he tries Camilla’s cell.

“Hello.”

“Camilla, don’t panic, okay?”

“Oh, God, Carlton, please don’t tell me that. I hate these phone calls.

“There’s nothing wrong with Gerald, not physically anyway, sweetie, but something tragic has happened.”

“Carl, please!”

Carl hesitates. “We need you . . . you need to come to Ramon’s shop on Payton as soon as possible. I really don’t want to tell you all of it over the phone.”

“Stop it. Tell me what’s going on. Where is my husband?” Camilla pulls into the parking lot of the Clear View Shopping Center, no more than three blocks away from Ramon’s shop, puts the SUV in park and leans against the headrest. “Okay, I’m trying to remain calm, now please tell me what is happening.”

Carl lets out a long sigh. “Ramon was murdered tonight in his shop. It looks like an attempted robbery. Gerald is wigging out, sweet-heart, your husband needs you.”

Camilla pauses for a few seconds then begins hyperventilating. “What did you just say? Please don’t tell me that!” She gets out of her SUV, starts pacing back and forth, screaming into her cell phone.

Carl realizes he’s made a huge mistake. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have told you like that. Where are you? Please tell me where you are. I’ll come pick you up.”

Suddenly, she stops screaming. The line is silent for a few seconds. “I’ll be there soon.”
This time her voice is so low he can barely hear her.

Camilla does not remember driving down Payton Avenue or getting out of her SUV and walking towards the shop. When she comes to herself and looks around there seems to be a million people in the room, but nobody’s saying a word except Gerald. She turns her eyes in the direction of his voice, and collapses to the floor. As Carl gently picks her up and carries her to their squad car, Camilla hears her husband ask a question she’ll never forget.

“Why didn’t you have your vest on, baby brother? Rah, I told you not to be up in here all hours of the night without your vest, acting like you some black superman. That’s why I bought it for you, man, where the hell is your vest?”

Mary Ann Finley is the founder and CEO of Mayrann Speaks Productions LLC. She’s the author of Corn Rowing Mama’s Hair on a Sunday, Somebody Say Grace and Thicker Than Blood (vol.1). She is the publisher of McCurtain Press and lives in Stone Mountain, Georgia area.

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It's the second day of March Madness! Check out what Tracee Lydia Garner's mixing up in the lab!

Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win Deadly Affections!

BLURB:

Dr. Dexter Parker believes the woman claiming to be Leedra Henderson isn't who she says. He remembers her from a shared history and tragedy long ago. Leedra Henderson is seeking answers about her past and her missing little sister. She doesn't want or need Dexter's help. She'll uncover the truth, open old wounds and end up fighting not just for the truth, but to stay alive.

Excerpt  

​“Does it need stitches?” she asked nervously. Dexter shook his head and she felt a surge of relief. 

“I chose to work at the shelter for a reason. It has afforded me some security, being as how it’s a protected location. I don’t plan to hide. I just wanted time to get to know my surroundings better before I spent nights out on the town, that's all.”

​“Nights on the town?” Dexter raised an eyebrow at her and Leedra looked away. “We both know that’s not why you decided to come home, now is it?

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Welcome to March Madness! It's the kickoff of the most fantastic blogging campaign of each year! Authors from around the world have come together to give YOU, a gift. We're celebrating my birth month all month long! Simply leave a comment below and you're entered into the giveaway. That's it. Just reply. You don't have to stop there. Share these posts with family, friends, and others!

How often have you dreamt of exacting revenge on someone who's wronged you? Well, today, author D. A. Kelley is sharing a bitt of bittersweet revenge with us. Help me welcome her to The Beautifully Inspired Blog and read on...and reply for a chance to win.


Giveaway items

A free copy of the book with a $10 Amazon gift card.

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