Today I'm sharing another sample teaser from BeJeweled: Standing Strong. It's the fourth and final book in The House of BeJeweled series, coming soon!

Just when Olivia thought everything was smooth sailing, the bottom drops...

BEJEWELED: STANDING STRONG EXCERPT

Raymond knew despite the way they felt about him they loved their grandkids. He didn’t want to deprive them, or his kids of the right to a relationship with one another. But he refused to allow them to manipulate or control his children the way they had done their daughter.

“Leave!” Cal replied.

“Come on, honey. It’s okay. This is their right,” Olivia spoke up. She was rubbing Raymond’s arm, attempting to soothe him.

He turned to walk away and find Malcolm.

“You shouldn’t have led her to believe you were coming back, Raymond!” Anne shouted to his retreating back.

With their arms wrapped together, Olivia felt her husband stiffen beside her.

“I bet you didn’t tell your new wife, huh? Did you tell her all the time you were coming back up here, you had Beth thinking you were going to work through your differences? Did she know you were staying with Beth when you visited the kids? Or you slept in the bedroom with her? Did she know that? Huh, Raymond?” Anne called out.

Although Raymond’s steps faltered, her continued to press forward with Olivia by his side.

Anne began laughing behind him. “I thought not. I’m sure she had no clue you were sharing your ex-wife’s bed each time you returned to Boston under the pretense of visiting your kids. Especially those times they were at me and Cal’s home,” she revealed.

Olivia had no clue what the woman was referring to. She only knew she would not make a scene and she and her husband had a lot to discuss. She could feel the anger emanating from him.

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Thirteen years! That's the anniversary Marv and I celebrate on this day. Twenty years in a relationship and thirteen years of marriage. They have not all been easy. We've had some amazing times and some challenging times. He's enhanced all the good in me, and challenged me to face and battle all that was not so good.

It's because of him that I do this writing thing. Or shall I say, it's because of him that I was able to recognize and appreciate this gift of writing the Lord has blessed me with. He has encouraged me in this journey and been my biggest fan. I've faced all kinds of fears and overcome many challenges, kicking and screaming every step of the way. And it's all thanks to my husband, my friend, my life-coach, my lover, my everything!

But, I promise I would not live this rollercoaster ride of a life with another. He's truly made life worth living and taught me to grow as a woman, a person, and a child of the Most High God.

Every day and night I truly thank the Lord for this man. And I'm not just saying that, but I literally thank Him in my prayers. I am blessed to know Marv, honored to be married to him, and privileged to share life together.

He has taught me so many amazing things about life and myself.

Marv, I am the woman that I am today, because of the man and the friend you are to me daily...

Happy Anniversary my love!

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It's another Motivational Monday Moment and we're conquering the spirit of fear.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

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It's a Fabulous Friday and we're featuring another hot, upcoming release. Rules and promises are made to be broken, and sometimes it's just what the heart desires.

Paulette Harper drops by to share a glimpse of her upcoming release, Secret Places Revealed.


SECRET PLACES REVEALED OVERVIEW:

Single and content, Real Estate Developer, Aaron Blackman is determined not to be in another relationship. His ex Macy, gave him enough heartache to last a life time. The only thing that has his attention right now is his growing business, that’s until Simone Herron comes along. Fighting to keep his promise to himself, he soon learns that when it comes to love some rules are meant to be broken.
After losing her fiancé to an untimely death, Simone Herron is relocating and trying to put the past behind her. A new chapter in her life is what she is hoping for but what happens when her past and her present collide? Will she let the walls she has built come down?

Simone must learn that in order to love again, she must conquer her past fears and allow God to put all the broken pieces together.

Secret Places Revealed
Chapter 1 Excerpt
Pensive, Simone Herron stared out her fifth floor Park Avenue office window. Manhattan, New York, the city that never sleeps. Below her, hordes of people bustled to and fro, arms laden with shopping bags. Tourists gawked at the beautiful and spectacular views from Times Square to Central Park. Close to lunch time, people walked hurriedly into delicatessens and restaurants. She never questioned why people wanted to be here. It was obvious. Manhattan was popular for its world-class cultural attractions, thriving restaurant scene and scintillating shops. It was truly an amazing site to see. No matter what time of day, downtown Manhattan was busy and crowded. New York City, known for its entertainment and visual arts, captured the hearts of all who embraced its presence. Who wouldn’t love it? So, why did it feel like her heart was no longer captured?

For Simone, the Big Apple wasn’t the same anymore. After ten years of living in the city, she still loved it. New York was an ideal place to work, shop, live and entertain. But, her life felt lackluster. Simone turned away from the window. Even the busyness of the city and all it had to offer, could no longer mask her restlessness. Something was missing.

Five feet six, Simone maintained her hourglass figure with a daily workout regimen. Her toasted caramel complexion complemented her long, thick honey brown hair which she wore in twists. She worked as a paralegal for a prestigious law firm with some of the most gifted and intelligent lawyers. She studied the notes on her desk. She absolutely loved her job and would not trade what she’d learned from it for anything in the world. She had established a great rapport in her workplace. She would come highly recommended to any law firm she wanted to work for. Could a move be the answer to her restlessness?

As if she weren’t already bleak, the holiday season had arrived with all of its cheery fanfare. She sat, mindlessly shuffling the papers. The holidays were her least favorite time of the year. Simone wished she could skip over November and December and head straight into January. For the past few years, she’d spent her Thanksgivings volunteering for the dinner drive at Sheppard’s Gate, a women’s shelter. Christmas, would be spent singing carols with her church at Faith Bible Center. When did her life evolve into this monotonous rut? 

Maybe it was the fact that she had to bury her fiancé a few months before their marriage. But that was five years ago. Could she still be hurting and mourning her loss after five years? Did a piece of her die with Joshua? She should be on top of the world. Instead, she lacked any motivation to put the pieces of her life back together. How do you put the pieces back together when all the pieces seem to be scattered everywhere? Her life was like a puzzle. Some pieces fit. Most of them didn’t. At times, Simone felt as though her life had come to a screeching halt.

People told her time would heal her wounds. That it would get easier day by day. And they were right—some days. There were days she felt she had moved on and then there were days when the feelings in her heart and the dreams of him were just as real as the love they shared.

People told her never to question God, but those that knew Simone knew her to be inquisitive.

She couldn’t understand why God had taken away the only man she’d ever truly loved. Joshua was her soul mate, her friend, the love of her life, her future children’s father. The more she got to know him, the more she realized that meeting him wasn’t by chance. It was something divine. He felt the same. They met while attending college in Manhattan. For them, it was a connection the first time their eyes met.

She spent plenty of time thinking about what their children might have looked like. Would they have had his dark eyes and curly black hair or maybe brown eyes like hers? The idea of not having a family hurt her to the core. Her parents were married for decades before her father died suddenly from a heart attack. For now, the dream of falling in love and having a family was tucked away somewhere in the back of her mind hoping that one day there would be a second chance.

Simone wasn’t sure she believed there was such a thing as getting back to a normal life. She accepted what life had dealt her and was allowing it to bring her to a place of surrender. She learned to accept that when life brought pain, God would give her the strength to go through it. She was hopeful. The more she lived, the more she learned how to let go of things she wanted knowing that some things could never be. 

In spite of life’s disappointments, she had a wonderful life. She was blessed to be able to do what she wanted and to work anywhere she desired. Professionally, people would give to be in her position.
Simone became teary-eyed as questions swirled around in her head. Why was she feeling stuck? Why with all of her great accomplishments did she still feel like something was missing? She needed a change. A fresh start would do her wonders.

She turned and scanned her office. Her eyes landed on her plaques on the wall, awards she had received from her boss. Too bad none of those accolades ever prepared her for what life had dealt her. Her eyes focused on the plaque on her desk, a gift from her pastor. Her favorite scripture was engraved, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28, KJV). 

She knew God was in control. But sometimes, it was more difficult to accept when His plan superseded her own. She’d heard all the sermons. She was in all the prayer lines. She had plenty of oil poured on her head. But the pain, at times, remained unbearable. She was resilient, but felt weak. Externally, Simone had it altogether. Internally, however, she felt detached. She was a fighter that had reached the end of her fight. Something has to change.

#SecretPlacesRevealed #mustread #amreading @pauletteharper
By Paulette Harper
Genre: #Inspirational #Fiction #Romance
ASIN: B00GLF5BW0
Releasing July 26, 2016
Pre-order: Amazon https://amzn.com/B01G1CP1OA

Buy Link
Amazon e-book: https://amzn.com/B01G1CP1OA

Social Links
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/authorpauletteharper
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pauletteharper
Amazon author page: http://amzn.com/e/B004FEJKCQ
Website: www.pauletteharper.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5824102.Paulette_Harper
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pauletteharper1/?hl=en

ABOUT PAULETTE HARPER:

Paulette is a multi-published, best-selling and award-winning author, who writes Christian fiction, nonfiction and children’s books. She has been writing since 2008. Paulette is also the owner of Write Now Literary Virtual Book Tours and as a book writing coach she enjoys assisting aspiring authors navigate through the process of publishing books, marketing and creating an online presence. Paulette lives in Northern California.

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I've cut back on blogging a bit recently and it's allowed me to see some drastic changes in my productivity in terms of writing. I have been blogging Monday through Friday for the last four years, with a few exceptions in between. Every now and then something would come up that would cause me to miss a few days and I would not be as diligent as I had been.

However, lately I had found myself so busy doing everything except writing my novels. I began to look for ways to cut back on all the other "busyness" and get back to my first love. With that being said, I was so excited to finally finish the sequel to my A Woman's Afflictions novel, A Woman's Redemption.

Then I had a moment where my husband and I were vibing and I changed the names up a bit. They are now entitled A Woman's Design: Afflictions (book 1) and A Woman's Design: Redemption (book 2). While neither books are available yet, I hope to have them both published before this year is out. 

I loved the ladies of this book and as with all of my novels, they definitely have some personal challenges and a road of growth ahead of them. I did not look forward to saying goodbye, but I cannot wait for you to say hello to them. With that being said, I would like to introduce you to one of the ladies today.

Mrs. Ambiance Lorraine Caldwell has been married to her husband Eric Caldwell for years. Problem? They cannot have children and she desperately longs for one. His work as an attorney and her aspirations to move beyond being a personal shopper for a boutique and own her own one day has them running in different directions.

Ambiance meets a friend one day who cares for and seemingly understands all of her emotions. She gets the listening ear she needs and she feels super special. However, her vows to her husband will remain in tact despite the brewing attraction between her and said friend.

When Eric's late nights and inattentive behavior seem to have little to do with his work as an attorney and more to do with his past flame, Ambiance is not sure she can hold true to her vows any longer. The late night phone calls, early morning wake-up calls, and mid-day luncheons may just go a little further or will it?

When a nightmarish event occurs not only is her marriage rocked, but she finds herself questioning her faith, and fleeing from the one she really can trust.

That's just a little about Ambiance "Ambi" Caldwell from book 1. I hope you enjoyed today's writer Wednesday intro. Don't forget to subscribe to follow along with me on this blog.

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Join me today in celebrating my girl, Té Russ' release of her latest novel, Noble Love. As with all of her novels this one promises to be just as spicy and tantalizing as the others. It's guaranteed to heat up your summer, but it's a sweet treat, too. Plus, I absolutely love this book cover!!! It's my favorite so far...

Read on...

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Every man has a right to be valued by his best moment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

While the above statement is true in and of itself we must be cautious of what we're allowing everyone to see. Being mindful of the words we speak, the behaviors we execute, and the actions we take will shape our character and others' perspective about who we are.

If we're having more bad moments than good moments and others' perspective of us seems to be flawed in our minds, perhaps we should do something about the bad moments. When you fail to control your temper in the midst of adversity or crumble under every tempest life blows your way, it will leave the impression you're a person not in control of your emotions.

It's oftentimes challenging to deal with people who have difficulty managing their emotions and presenting themselves as stable and reliable. Just as you have the right to be valued by your best moments, you also have the responsibility to work to have "best moments."

Whether you need to take time to think through a situation, pray over it and wait for guidance, or simply opt out of it the outcome of the of that moment is up to you. How you are perceived by others and how you feel about the moment is entirely under your control. What will you do under pressure?

Take every moment one step at a time during this week. Think about the impressions you want to leave. And remember that we are called to love one another as Christ loves us. John 13:34

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Today's Fabulous Friday featured author is none other than Ms. J. L. Campbell. I've had the pleasure of reading many of her novels, and I thoroughly enjoyed every one of them. My favorites of course, were the Island Adventure Romance series.

You're in for a bit of a treat with her latest release, The Vet's Secret Wish. Read on to learn more about her new novella.


Excerpt from The Vet's Secret Wish
 
Across the office, Jade—my almost-fiancée's daughter—sat in a padded-wicker chair.  Her bare feet were bent at the knees and her cat, Murphy sprawled on top of them. Jade stroked his fur while speaking into his ear. Murphy mewed at Jade as if he understood what she'd said to him, and I had no doubt he did.

Ridley, the Pit Bull mix lay dozing on the tiles.

The moment my focus turned to the patient cards on the desk, Jade asked, "Doc, you busy?"

I'd never be too busy for her, so I laid down the pen and gave her my attention. "What d'you want to know?"

Jade was a powerhouse of questions and I'd learned to pay attention if I didn't want to wander onto a minefield that would blow up in my face.

"Daddy and I were talking about you and Mommy last night."

Now, I was riveted. "Yeah?"

She nodded, putting all her energy into it. "I told him about your rings and he said promises can be broken."

Here, she sighed. "I know because before now, he broke his promise to let me stay at his house a lot."

The upstanding side of my character told me to shut down this conversation now, but the part of my brain that suspected Jade's father still wanted her mother back made me ask, "So what else did he say about Toni and me?"

She stroked Murphy's forehead and made a funny face at him before frowning. "Um … he said … oh yes, a promise is a comfort to a fool."

I spun the promise ring on my finger, focusing on the pearls inset in the titanium finish. The stones were set inside one half of a heart, and Toni's ring contained the matching side. She'd given me the ring a month ago with a promise to marry me on Valentine's Day next year.

Now, I wondered if I knew what the heck I was doing to agree to that half-measure when I wanted Toni to be Mrs. Matthias Laing this minute.

So Toni wasn't as gung-ho about marriage as I was, but considering what she'd been through, and since I'd agreed to wait, I couldn't bum rush her at this point.

" … true, Doc?"

Jade's questioning tone jolted me out of my mental space. "What was that?"

"I was asking if that's true."

My blank stare gave me away, because Jade sighed and rolled her eyes. "Is it a comfort for a fool?"

"No, it's not. I've lived up to the ones I've made to you, haven't I?"

She nodded and then said. "Daddy wasn't talking about you and me."

My intense stare prodded her to continue. "He was talking about Mommy and you."

I would have asked why he was talking about Toni and me since they weren't together anymore, but that didn't serve any useful purpose so I bit my tongue. Jade's words made me uncomfortable because I suspected Dane had every intention of getting back into Toni's life.

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY:

Amazon Link: http://amzn.to/1RE8K6i

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1OjZwkX



 

ABOUT J.L. CAMPBELL
J.L. Campbell is a Jamaican author who writes romantic suspense, women's fiction, new and young adult novels. She has written fourteen books, five novellas and two short story collections.
Her novels include the Island Adventure Romance series, which currently has five exciting, stand-alone stories and features feisty women and determined men. Campbell's mission is to write stories that entertain and educate readers. She is a certified editor, who also writes non-fiction.

Contact Ms. Campbell:
www.joylcampbell.com
https://www.facebook.com/jlcampbellwrites/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JL_Campbell
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thewriterssuite
https://plus.google.com/+JLCampbell/
Mailing list: http://eepurl.com/n29ZH

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You've seen it all over Facebook and other social media sites. This #writerwednesday I'm pleased to host the new release, "Because My Heart Said So," by Nia Forrester, Jacinta Howard, Lily Java, and Rae Lamar.

A romantic collaboration between four talented women, this novel is intriguing and surely won't disappoint. Read the excerpts and wish these ladies a happy release day in the comments section below.

ABOUT THE BOOK:
 
#4Writers4Love presents:
Because My Heart Said So: A Friends-To-Lovers Collection
By: Nia Forrester, Jacinta Howard, Lily Java and Rae Lamar


Four Authors. Four Stories. For Love.
 
“Acceptable Losses” by Nia Forrester: Quentin is in the middle of a separation from his wife that seems to have no conclusive end in sight, while Lena is stuck in Single Girl Hell. The only respite either of them have is their regular coffee dates, while working on shared projects at a very demanding job. Sick of hearing about Lena’s semi disastrous attempts to couple-up, Quentin decides to fix her up. With his brother. Seems like a perfect solution; after all, his brother is a decent enough guy and Lena deserves that. Perfect... until it appears that the fix-up might actually work. 

“Blind Expectations” by Jacinta Howard: Aristotle once said the only thing constant in life is change. Or was that Confucius? Whatever. People are fluid—they come into your life for a while, and when it’s time for them to float on, Leah has no qualms waving goodbye. The only exception is her neighbor and best friend, Trevor. When all else fails in her crazy world, Trevor is always there, reliable, steady… real. But then one night a heated argument leads to a revelation that shakes Leah to the core. Suddenly, Leah is forced to make a choice. But will her heart survive her decision? 

“Blackbirds” by Lily Java: Once upon a time Sydney Tarr and Elliott Vance were friends: fast friends, ride or die, pledge of allegiance, take it to the mat, “friends.” And the fact that Sydney loved her friend more than she should didn’t matter until finally... one unusual and spectacular night, it did. It mattered very much. Still, not every story is a fairy tale is it? Friends do part—sometimes forever—but, not always. 

“Blur” by Rae Lamar: Jade Warner is back home. The bad part? Starting over. The best part? Reconnecting with Kyle Malone. Picking up where they left off years ago, it feels just like old times...except for the mutual attraction and questionable feelings, which are all brand new. For Jade and Kyle, it’s unthinkable to hook up given the history of their fail-safe friendship, but anything can happen when you live under the same roof... 
 
Book Landing Page
 
Available Now on Amazon
 
Visit the #4Writers4Love Pinterest Page to see images of characters and places mentioned in ‘BECAUSE MY HEART SAID SO’!
 
 
 
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
 
Nia Forrester is the author of the Commitment series. Nia lives and writes in Washington DC where, by day, she works on public policy and by night, she crafts women-centered fiction that examines the complexities of life, love and the human condition. Visit her at niaforrester.com.
 
Jacinta Howard is the author of women's and new adult fiction. Since 2014, she's released four novels, including the well-received Love Always Series. She also released the USA TODAY Must-Read Romance, Happiness in Jersey, as well as the emotional new adult novel, Finding Kennedy. Visit her at JacintaHoward.net.
 
Lily Java is a freelance writer and novelist who writes women's fiction in many genres. Her debut suspense novel, Sticky Moon, was released in 2014. When she isn't writing, Lily raises money for the arts planning events in iconic landmarks throughout her beloved hometown: New York City. Lily is a true ambivert, who enjoys solitude as much as she likes meeting or talking with other passionate readers and writers. Visit her at LilyJava.com.

Rae Lamar is a mild-mannered consultant by day and fiction writer by night who calls Atlanta home. She is the author of Dawn of Aris and The Aris Effect along with other works of contemporary romance and women’s fiction. On a perfect day, she can be found on the top floor of a swanky beach resort, sitting on the balcony of an ocean-front suite with a book in her hands and food at her fingertips. SN: She rarely has perfect days. Visit her at raelamar.com.

From 'Acceptable Losses' by Nia Forrester:

“So …” he began, “this is …”

“Awkward,” Lena finished for him. “I know. I’m sorry. I had no idea that …” She stopped and sighed.

“Just … I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay,” Quentin said, wondering why it was that he wasn’t angry at her.

She at least knew on Friday when he leaned in and kissed her that there was one very good reason that they shouldn’t. And yet, he wasn’t mad.

Lena gave a small, derisive laugh. “No. It is definitely not okay, Quentin. I mean, I’m here with your brother. And on Friday night …”

“Let’s not talk about Friday night,” he interrupted her.

A look crossed her face then that was unmistakable. It was hurt.

“Of course,” she said. “We should just forget it ever happened. It was wrong, and it shouldn’t have …”

“No, Lena, I didn’t mean … What I mean is …” 

He took two steps toward her, and then stopped. He didn’t know what he meant. But he did know that what happened on Friday, he didn’t like hearing described as ‘wrong.’ Shit, it was complicated, no doubt about that. But it didn’t feel wrong. Kissing her, being that close to her actually felt very, very right.

From ‘Blind Expectations’ by Jacinta Howard:
 
“I’m sitting on your lap,” she breathed, eyes still closed. “And we keep kissing.”

“Yes, you are. And yes, we do.”

She heard the smile in his voice and opened her eyes.

“Seems like you enjoy it,” he grinned, biting the corner of his lip. “I know I do. You taste good as hell, Leah. Even better than I knew you would.”

From ‘Blackbirds’ by Lily Java:
 
Elliott had the smoothest skin she’d ever seen on a man. Dark and brown, it looked like it had been painted onto him with oil and a thick brush. Sydney had the urge to photograph him, but that was an urge she had about a thousand times a day with a lot of people. What was different about this was her urge to see more of him. The shirtless Elliott. The sleeping Elliott. Elliott at play.

From ‘Blur’ by Rae Lamar:
 
“Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever find the right guy.”

Kyle watched as Jade stabbed a shrimp with her fork and stuck it in her mouth. “Your first mistake is labeling him 'right' because what the hell does that even mean? There is no right or wrong, Jade…it’s about finding the one who makes you feel most alive.”

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You've got to get up every morning with determination if you're going to go to bed with satisfaction. - George Lorimer

The dictionary defines determined as making a firm decision and being resolved not to change it. It can also be defined as being purposeful, unwavering, resolute, undaunted, or insistent.

We have many goals, dreams, and desires for our lives. Yet, we allow too many obstacles and distractions encountered along the way to take us off our path. When you truly desire success in a certain area, you will not allow anything to stop you.

Perhaps, you may find a better way to accomplish the tasks along the way. If one resolution does not work, then try something different. Continue to stay focused on your goals and let nothing deter you from your heart's desire.

Pray over the situation you're working on and seek the guidance of the Lord. He will answer your prayers and ensure you stay on the right journey.

1. Each day determine in your mind what you want to accomplish the next day.
   
2. Set a plan for those tasks and how you plan to complete them.
3. The next day begin ticking off your tasks as you finish them.
   

At the end of the day you will feel a sense of accomplishment as you look back over your day. Your satisfaction will be well worth the hard work you've endured.

Regardless of what your plan may be, make up in your mind that you are not going to waver from your decision or plan. Don't allow anything to stop you as you keep your mind stayed on your purpose. A determined attitude will lead you to victory and success.

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Authors try to give as authentic a voice as we can to our characters. I  sit down and read my books to my husband as I write them. He points out to me when I'm off character and need to take a moment to breathe, versus if I'm flowing like water.

His perspective was extremely important to me in The House of BeJeweled series. I wanted a man's point-of-view on the situations my characters faced.

I would read a scene to him and ask him his opinion. Quite often he would tell me I was on point. Other times, not so much. The basketball scene in book 3, BeJeweled: A Beautiful Blend was written completely from his perspective.

Although he refuses to take credit, he's the other side of this writing duo. He doesn't sit and write, but he definitely "pants" and brainstorms with me. Therefore, today's Fab Friday Feature is none other than my Marvelous husband, Mr. Marvin "Marvelous" Ramsey. 

CHELLE: When you provide input on projects that we work on, would you say that you're a plotter or Pantser? 

MARV: It’s different with me, because you do these plots and when you do them I can do so much with it. I get creative ideas based on the way you're flowing. Then I’ll share an idea with you, and it takes off from there.

CHELLE: Tell our readers a little about yourself? Who is Marvin the man?

MARV: I really don’t have a bead on myself. I don’t know what will affect me any particular way. I just focus on being the best that I can be. I’m just that person. Sometimes, I think my reactions are based on a mood or emotion I’m in at that given time. Sometimes, I’m unsure how I do what I do. I wonder how others can’t see things, because I see it clear as day. It makes me reflect on how I got to where I am in life. Where I come from, what I went through and so forth.

CHELLE: There's a certain insight that you have on life and people that I would say is your gift. I believe what you've described is a part of that gift. How do you create balance in life?

MARV: I fight a good fight and don’t put myself above anyone, or anyone above myself. I’m far from being perfect, but I’m not planning on being the worst one. Just like everyone else, I will expire and leave here unworthy and come up short. Balance and attempting to find a peace of mind in this world is a daily battle. If I can find a peace of mind with who I am, then I’m balanced.

CHELLE: And we know that you don't have a peace of mind with me and the kids around. Especially when I'm working on a project that I need your attention on. LOL!!!  

MARV: Yeah, you know?

CHELLE: Pandora or iHeart?

MARV: Pandora, I guess. You keep it tuned in to that. I don’t have a clue what iHeart is.

CHELLE: What genre do you write and why?

MARV: You do all of the writing, but my favorite is urban-spiritual. They don’t have that genre, but I like urban because there are a lot of stories to tell there and as time goes on, urban is where reality lies.

CHELLE: If you could pair up with another author to write, who would you choose and why?

MARV: Chelle Ramsey. Because I believe we somehow share a spiritual connection. Otherwise, I’m not sure there would be a door open or a connection that someone would understand my flow the way you do.

CHELLE: I'm so glad you got that answer right. (I wink an eye at him, and smile cunningly). Mountains or the beach?

MARV: I think all of that is starting to be scary. All kind of things are happening and nothing is safe anywhere. But…I would have to say the mountains, because I love nature.

CHELLE: Okay, babe. We're not going to travel down that road today, because this interview could turn into a two-hour interview. I'm just saying...On another note, if there was one thing you would want your readers to know after reading your works, what would it be?

MARV: Enjoy.

CHELLE: Describe your idea of the perfect “me-time.”

MARV: When I look around and I’m by myself. Headspace is the perfect way I can describe it.

CHELLE: Kobe or LeBron?

MARV: Well, there was one time I would pick, but out of respect for all that they have done and being different people, I equally appreciate them. I don’t think I can say one or the other anymore; I appreciate what they do in the game of basketball.

CHELLE: We live life beautifully inspired here, at The Beautifully Inspired Blog. Leave us with an inspirational post, comprised of three words.

MARV: Live, Love, Learn.


Well, that was a peek at my husband, Professor X. That basketball scene I mentioned? Here's his words and actions in play from a man's perspective:

 ****

Whoosh…the ball gracefully swished through the net as Wesley knocked an opposing player onto his back.

He grabbed his shirt to wipe the sweat off his face, which was pouring into his eyes. Turning around to face the other team, he looked at the player who had tried to guard him. “Uggh, what now, nigga…nothing but net!” he called, mean mugging the opposing player who was being helped up by a teammate.

“So, wassup? You got something on your chest you wanna get off? We can go right here, right now…” the other player said, coming at Wesley with his arms spread out at his sides. The other two men from his team ran up and grabbed the man’s arms, attempting to calm him down and not allow a fight to break out. But they, too, were looking Wesley up and down as if he had clearly lost his mind.

“Man, what’s up with your game?” Wesley’s friend, Ali, asked, hands out in front of him, eyebrows lifted. He was stunned by Wesley’s aggressive nature on the court.

“Yeah, man, you coming hard as hell,” Eric, his best friend, said as he slapped Wesley on the shoulder, pushing him back. They took a time-out after Wesley’s flagrant foul to calm things down a bit before a fight broke out. He was playing with a more aggressive nature than normal, and the fellows couldn’t figure out what it was all about.

Wesley played hard to push thoughts of Nikki out of his head. The only way to achieve that was with a game of ball; his love of the sport was always his cure all for everything that ailed him in life. And this evening was no exception. He took his frustrations with the situation and his anger at her husband out on his opponents on the court.

“I’m a’ight, man…I didn’t mean dude no harm, I’m just bringing it today,” Wesley replied.

Eric was hunched over, hands on his knees, trying to catch his breath. “I feel you, man, but that ain’t the only thing you bringing. You need to squash that bullshit and let’s play ball,” Eric advised.

“I’m cool, I’m cool…come on, let’s do this,” he said, walking back onto the court where the other players stood.

“Yo’ boy a’ight, man?” one of the other players asked Eric.

“Yeah, man, it’s all good. Y’all a’ight?” Eric questioned, standing with his hands on his hips.

“Yeah, man, we good,” the other player replied, looking around at his own teammates.

“A’ight, come on, let’s do this,” Eric said.

Wesley walked up to the other player. “My bad, man. My bad,” he apologized.

“It’s cool, man,” the previously offended player replied.

They played another half an hour, with Wesley and his friends finally winning the game with a score of fifteen to eleven, before playing against another team.

Wesley, Eric, and Ali walked out of the gym into the cool night air. Heading for their cars, they made small talk until they could get out of earshot from other people on the court.

“Aye, man, what was all that about on the court?” Eric asked.

“Man, I was cool. They was just losing and dude couldn’t take it,” Wesley explained.

“Nah, bruh…you was tripping. We was winning, but you came hard at ol’ dude,” Ali interjected.

“Yeah, man, you were playing kinda wild today, and that ain’t you. So, what gives?” Eric asked, holding his hands out in front of him, and staring at his best friend. That was his way of letting Wesley know he wanted the truth, no holds barred.

“Man, I don’t know. I got some things to work out that’s been bothering me,” Wesley stated as he opened the back door of his Camaro and threw his ball inside along with his towel.

“I know it ain’t that married chick,” Eric said, shaking his head and looking at Wesley out the corner of his eye.

Wesley stood up, slammed the car door closed, and turned around to face his friends. Leaning against his car, he crossed his arms over his broad chest and grinned at Eric.

“See, now why you gotta go there? Why you think my game messed up over some broad?” Wesley asked.

“Look, Wes, I didn’t say your game was messed up. But your attitude is,” Eric explained, “and if it’s because of her, I’m telling you, you need to check out man. A married broad ain’t nothing but trouble.”

“Yeah, man, that’s the last thing you wanna do. My sister, Nafeesa, has a friend who was cheating on her husband. When her husband found out, he went ballistic on both of them. He beat her so bad, she was in the hospital for two weeks, and he killed the dude. Man, you don’t wanna play with that kind of fire,” Ali warned.

“Man, I am not messing with that chick. I’m sayin’, she just need to leave her dude alone. He already putting his hands on her, and she always coming to work sad and depressed. She’s a good girl, and she don’t deserve that. That’s all I’m saying. She just need someone to be there for her, and that’s all I’m
tryna’ do.”

“Oh, a’ight. So, you ain’t tryna’ get with her, you just tryna’ be capn’ save one. That’s what you tellin’ us? Man, don’t say you weren’t warned,” Eric pronounced.

“Well, nigga, that’s how you got here, ain’t it?” Wesley teased.

“A’ight man, do it how you do it. I ain’t hatin’. Just want you to be careful. Nothing but love, man,” Eric said, giving Wesley pound on the back.

“Yeah, man, cuz I don’t wanna be in your cut when some crazed maniac come up in there squeezing off rounds and making Swiss cheese outta y’all. Or, cutting y’all heads off and serving ‘em on platters,” Ali declared.

Eric and Wesley laughed at Ali’s declaration, and shook their heads.

“Mannn, you crazy. Where you get that bullshit from? You better quit watching them stupid ass movies,” Eric laughed, teasing Ali.

“I’m out,” Wesley announced and gave his partners dap before jumping into his ride and pulling off.

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Today's #throwbackthursday post comes from June 9th of last year. On a blog tour, I made a stop at my fellow author and friend, M.J. Kane's blog.

Here's a bit of what I shared:

The pain was easing up somewhat as Nikki and Wesley entered the breezeway at his apartments. Unlocking the door, his eyes softened when he looked at her face once again.

She saw a mixture of anger and compassion nestled there.

“What?” she asked when he continued to stare at her longer than what she deemed comfortable.

“Nothing,” he said, shaking his head. Wesley led her into a galley kitchen and pulled a sandwich bag from one of the cabinets, filled it with ice, and then wrapped it in a paper towel before applying it to her face.

She was in awe at the tenderness with which this man handled her. Every time he touched or said a word to her, it was with such protection, like she had never known. This was a side of Wesley that she had not seen in the five years of knowing him.

“Come on,” he said, grabbing her by her free hand and leading her to the back of the apartment. She looked around at his bedroom; not at all what she would have expected for a single man. Decorated in oranges, greens, browns, and yellows, it had a Caribbean look and feel to it. The room was small, but neat and exhibited a nice décor. The full-sized bed sat directly opposite the black-framed, chestnut-colored dresser. To the right of his bed was a small nightstand in the same black framing and chestnut top as the bed and the dresser. To the left of his bed was a double-paned window, with orange, brown, and green curtains blocking out the midday sun. He walked over to the window and opened the curtains halfway and then opened the blinds to allow the sun to stream through.

“I’ll be right back.”

“Where are you going?” she asked with a look of apprehension in her eyes.

His eyebrows lifted slightly. “Just to the bathroom, Nikki. I’ll be back.”

Exhaling a deep breath, she realized that a new fear had come over her. In all the altercations she had endured with Carlos, he had never left her for dead. Why did he leave like that? What if the neighbors didn’t come? I could’ve died in that bathroom, she thought.

She tried to fight back the tears, but they betrayed her. Sucking in her sobs, she stood and walked to his dresser and began looking at his pictures, anything that would take her mind off her problems. There were a couple of him and his father at various stages of his life, a few of some children, and one of a lady she assumed to be his mother. She stood up and walked to the bed, staring at the amazing likeness he had to this woman.

“That’s my mom.”

She jumped at the sound of his voice; she hadn’t heard him return to the bedroom.

“Oh, I didn’t hear you come up. Are you always so quiet?” she asked as he came and stood beside her. She still had not looked at him, wishing she could make the tears disappear from her eyes and face.

“No. Are you always so scary?” he teased. He regretted the words almost the moment he said them. Her body tensed up, and she looked down. Her fear had come as a result of the relationship she was in. She was always tense and on edge, because she never knew what fuse Carlos was about to blow.

“Hey, it’s okay. I’m sorry. Here, look at me,” he said, turning her face up towards him. “Why are you crying?” he asked as he wiped her tears away with his fingers.

“I’m sorry. I just…I don’t know.” She couldn’t explain if she wanted to. No one would understand her confusion or pain. She could forgive Carlos if he just had not left her. Didn’t he love her? Didn’t he want to work things out? Maybe he didn’t love her, after all. If he did, he would not have left her there like that.

“Don’t be sorry. You haven’t done anything wrong. I have the feeling you have spent many years apologizing,” Wesley stated.

He lovingly caressed the bruise that had formed on the right side of her face.

“Too beautiful,” Wesley said, being drawn into the power of her presence in his bedroom.

“Huh?”

“You. You’re too beautiful for this. I don’t want you to be scared every time people come near you. Relax, okay? Just be…I promise I won’t ever do nothing to hurt you,” he said as he drew her nearer to him. Looking down into her big, dark brown eyes, he felt himself getting lost.

Nikki didn’t know what she was feeling or what was happening between the two of them. And she couldn’t contain herself as he pressed his full firm lips against her soft, lush ones. As their foreheads touched, he continued to gently apply pressure to her lips, asking for permission to enter in.

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This week I'm showcasing The House of BeJeweled. Today's feature comes from book one, BeJeweled: The Flight of an Angel. Read on...

“That’s what’s so special about you. Somehow you always see the best in everyone and you find a way to pull it out. Everyone doesn’t have that gift, Ivy.” Raymond lowered his lips to kiss hers.

She smiled as she danced in his arms enjoying the feel of his soft cool lips against her warm ones. As Olivia continued to sway in his arms she slightly parted her lips, allowing his tongue to enter her mouth.
The warm rush flowing through her veins, and the slightly heady sense she experienced at the feel of his hands rubbing her back up and down was intoxicating.

Raymond’s mouth pulled away from hers and kissed the lower angle of her jawline. He squeezed her waist between his hands and then pulled away from her.

“What the hell am I gonna do with you, Ivy?” Raymond asked in frustration, walking away rubbing his hands over his low cut hair.

“Maybe I should go now.” Olivia walked to the living room table and picked up her keys and purse.

“Look, come on. I’m sorry. We’ve had a great evening. I don’t want it to end like this.”

“Well what am I supposed to do Ray? I told you where I stood before we decided to move forward in this relationship and you said you understood. You said you supported me. If you can’t do this, I completely understand and respect your decision. But I’m not going to play games. You know where I stand.”

“You’re right, I do know where you stand. But for how long?” Raymond was standing with his back against the wall, arms crossed over his chest, looking absolutely miserable. Olivia wished she could make things better for him, but this was where they both had to make their decisions.

“You know how long.”

“No, I don’t, Ivy. The only thing you said was that you made the decision to be celibate. You never said for how long.”

“And you didn’t question it, Ray. You simply told me, and I quote, ‘The only thing I was sure of after the divorce, was that I wanted to re-connect with you. You’re the one thing I am certain about, and if that means I have to be celibate, too, then I support you. I just want you in my life, Ivy.’ Was that not what you told me, word for word?” Olivia asked with her keys in her hands and her purse clenched tightly underneath her arm.

“Yes it was.”

“So you’re backing out now?” Olivia could feel her heart sinking and her dreams walking out the door.

But she knew he hadn’t made her any promises and she could understand if he chose not to stay around in that capacity in her life. She respected whatever decision he made.

“How long, Ivy?” he repeated.

“Until I’m married. And I know where you stand on that. You made yourself pretty clear.”

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Honey,

I gots some news for y'all! I guess it'd betta be me to break it to you than anyone else. Ty is outta here! Ain't no love lost for Chelle, this blog, or none of y'all divas, boo! No, Tyrone is taking the show on the road.

Honey, I'll be doing hair at The House of BeJeweled still, but I'm traveling doing hair for different hair shows, hanging out at a few celebrity salons, and teaching at a local cosmetology school.

Yes, baby, Ty has top billing and I've got quite a few things on my plate.  Don't get me wrong, I'll still pop in from time to time, especially when something big is going down. But, I won't be here every Tuesday. When I am coming back, Chelle will let y'all know in advance. So, I hope y'all heffas show up when I'm here. Don't be hatin' on a diva!

Now, the bigger news is that Chelle won't be around quite as much anymore either. She's got to get back focused on her books. So, she's had to prioritize a few things and she made the decision to simply blog on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from now on. I can't wait to see what she's whipping out next. I know it's gonna be big, boo.

Anyhoo, check out the pics from some of the hair shows I've been touring...

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"Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." Maya Angelou

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Hi everyone,

I just want to take a simple moment to express gratitude for a few different areas in my life. I receive emails on a daily basis, as well as social media interactions from individuals and groups.

As I shuffle from the office to the elevator or complete some other menial tasks that don't require my complete focus, I try to read as many emails as possible. I try to stay updated on the blog posts from the other blogs I follow. I try to reply to social media posts as quickly as possible.

With that being said, I know that it takes time to read these posts I send to you on a daily basis. Whether they are dropped into your email, you're visiting by way of a link shared on social media, or you simply drop by for a visit it takes time.

Whether you read the entire post or scan through briefly for pertinent information...it takes time. Whether you click "Like" to show that you enjoyed the content, or you click "Share," so that others can view it, it takes time.

Whatever your reason for following, reading, liking, sharing, or commenting I thank you. Your time is valuable and you could be doing any other number of things. I simply want to say thank you.

Thank you that you find my content worthy to be read. Thank you that you care enough about what I have to say to want to read it.

If you have not read book 3 in The House of BeJeweled series, BeJeweled: A Beautiful Blend, please click the link to receive your free copy today only.

THANK YOU!

If you have a blog you would like for me to follow, please leave it in the comments section below. Blogs only please.

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Genre: Poetry/ Christian/Autobiography
Book Title: Saved By Grace
Author: Natasha C. Pointer
ISBN-10: 1937129446
ISBN-13: 978-1937129446
About the Book

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"Thank you is the best prayer that anyone could say. I say that one a lot. Thank you expresses extreme gratitude, humility, understanding." - Alice Walker
 
Today is a thankful Thursday. I'm appreciative of all the little things that I've been blessed with in life. Those things we often take for granted, such as sight, hearing, speech, mobility, and love.

Yes, the love of our Heavenly Father.

The love of a child and a mother, or a father and a child.

The love between siblings, having one another's back.

The love of a good man when he appreciates his strong woman. He uplifts her and encourages her in her gifts. She in turn stands strong by his side and empowers her king to fly with her love, and strength. (Thank you, Marvelous).

Take a moment out of your day to think about all you have been blessed with. Think about the abundant favor that has shined in your life, and be a blessing to someone else.

Let those who are close to you know just how much they mean to you. Let them know how much that "little" thing they did this week blessed you. Don't take for granted they already know.

Little expressions or words go a long way:

• Cook a meal for someone this week and take it to them.
  
• Purchase a cup of coffee for someone.
• Drop by someone's house and do a chore for them (mowing the lawn, dishes, etc.)
• Buy someone a card just because.
• Surprise someone with a bouquet of flowers, or a plant.
• Write a letter to someone.
• Say I love you, and thank you to someone who's least expecting it.
  

Come back here to this exact same place on Saturday and receive your blessing. I want to show my appreciation for you, too.

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Hello My Inspiration!

Today's another #writerwednesday. Last week I shared with you the poem I wrote, entitled "Sweet."

This week I'm sharing a clip from the play I wrote, Broken Woman, Merciful Grace performed at our Women's Conference.

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