 Hello. I’m Excited. This is one of my stops during the one month tour for Sons of Ishmael Reintroduction Tour: The Danjuma Brothers. This virtual book tour is organized by Write Now Literary Book Tours. This tour runs September 11 – October 5, 2017. Follow the tour here. Book your own tour here WNL Genre: Christian Fiction/Romance  About Unoma... Born in Akron, Ohio to Nigerian parents, Unoma Nwankwor is an award winning, international best-selling author of several fiction titles, and a champion of purpose. She is the recipient of the Nigerian Writers’ Award 2015 for Best Faith Based Fiction Writer. At the end of 2016, she was short listed for the Diaspora Writer of the Year. She was also recently named as one of the “100 Most Influential Nigerian Writers Under 40” When she is not writing fiction, she empowers women of faith to remain rooted in hope by building confident expectations in the promises of God. She’s the host of the Anchor Talk Podcast, the COO of KevStel Group LLC and Founder of Living A Life of Expectancy. Unoma resides in Atlanta with her husband and two children. A Scoop of Love - Sons of Ishmael Book 1  The oldest of the Danjuma brothers, Rasheed was a self-made man. He’d learned at an early age that love and commitment brought with it complications he didn’t want to deal with. His single-minded focus had paid off. He was able to step into the shoes of his absentee father by taking care of his mother and twin brothers. But just when he thought he could stop carrying the weight of his family on his shoulders, he gets a call that could change the trajectory of Rasheed’s life. Ibiso Jaja, a professional caterer, had gambled on the love of a man and lost. Through the redeeming love of God, she had picked herself up and was now living her dream as the owner of Bisso Bites, a bistro in the heart of Abuja. However circumstances conspire to threaten the bistro and bring her face to face with the type of man she has vowed to avoid. The attraction is instant. Once again, Rasheed is forced to do something he has done all his life – put the needs of his family ahead of his own. This time however, he crosses path with the sassy, independent, Jesus-loving caterer who is bent on making him see the power of forgiveness and God’s love. Just when Rasheed lets his guard down, a deadly sabotage causes old demons to rise. Will Rasheed continue to pursue power and success or surrender to the light of God’s love?  Rasheed Danjuma sighed aloud at the sight of another unwanted email from the law offices of Ezekiel and Stanley. These lawyers were beginning to work his last nerve. He placed his finger over the touchpad of his laptop, directed the cursor to the delete icon and pressed it. It had been six months since Zayd Danjuma, the man that contributed to his genetic makeup had passed away. And his lawyers were still hounding him. Rasheed had thought his non-attendance of the funeral service was a clear indication of his disinterest in anything they had to say about his so-called father. Determined not to let the email ruin his day, he picked up the receiver and dialed his assistant’s extension. She picked up at the first ring. “Yes, Rasheed?” “Have you heard anything back from those clients in the United States?” “No, I didn’t,” she said. “But while you were on your conference call, your mother called.” Rasheed felt a strange rise in his stomach. His mother almost never called him on his office phone unless she wanted to reach him in a hurry. “Did she leave a message?” “No, she just said to let you know she called.” “Okay, thank you.” He disconnected the call. Rasheed walked over to his jacket and pulled out his cell phone. Looking out of the large window of his Hyde Park office, his sense of unease grew. He checked, and there were three missed called from his mother. His voice mail was empty. What was going on? He dialed his mother. She answered on the third ring. “Mama, you tried to reach me. Is everything okay?” “Nna, I really don’t know how to answer that.” His mother used her term of endearment, Nna, for her sons when she wanted to ask for something she knew they didn’t want to give.“What is it?” “Those lawyers from your father’s estate came to see me today,” she said. “Rasheed, I don’t want those men in my shop or house. I’m asking you again to come home and see what they want.” Rasheed’s jaw set. How dare those lawyers hound his mother? Why was it so important that he and his brothers attend the stupid will reading? Even though it had been twenty-five years since their father had walked out of their lives, the memory of that morning was still vivid. Their father didn’t care about them in life, so why was he so concerned about their well-being in death? Squaring up against those lawyers himself was one thing, but when they involved his mother, it was totally different. He wouldn’t have it. “You mean they came to your shop?” Rasheed asked as though he didn’t hear her the first time. Anger shot through his feet as he began to pace the length of his office. “Yes.” His mother’s voice sounded shaky. “It’s one thing for them to call but to show up, I don’t appreciate it. They almost scared my customers away.” After his mother had retired as a school administrator, she had decided she couldn’t sit idle. Her love of fashion led to the opening of a boutique in the heart of Abuja’s business district. Within months, the business had flourished. Rasheed had supported her because whatever made his mother happy made him happy, too. After many years of living in pain, she deserved to live her life in peace. They all did. Rasheed’s mind went back to the email he’d received earlier in the day. Since these lawyers were playing hardball, it was clear he had no choice but to travel to Nigeria. “If those lawyers call you again, tell them I’ll be there soon.” His mother’s sigh expressed her relief. “God bless you, my son.” “It’s okay, Mama. They better make it worth my while. If not, I won’t be held responsible for my actions.”  Anchored By Love - Sons of Ishmael Series Book II... When cardiac surgeon, Jabir Danjuma met Damisi Odinga at the University of Michigan seven years ago, it wasn’t necessarily love at first sight. With love comes commitment and he knows that’s not a promise he could keep, after all he is his father’s son. However, their attraction can’t be denied. Their ensuing one year romance is passionate and intense, and he begins to feel the forbidden emotion—love. Just as he starts to let his guard down, Damisi breaks up with him and moves half way around the world to Lagos, Nigeria. He knows immediately that the demise of their relationship has something to do with that church she joined. She becomes unrecognizable and wants to change him into something he is not. His studies are the most important thing to him, so he did what any sane man would do, let her go. Popular television personality Damisi Odinga, needs to end the fourth season of her show Becoming Ruth, with a bang. The trending topic in the country is the fairy-tale wedding of the heir to the Danjuma empire. The family has been shrouded in secrecy ever since the unknown sons resurfaced in the country last year. Coverage of the wedding weekend will give her show the boost it needs and seal its number one rating. No one can get an interview with the couple but she had a way in, her ex man, Jabir Danjuma. So what if he broke her heart and she hasn’t been able to get over him? This was kingdom business, right? Years ago, Damisi left him without an explanation and now Jabir has her just where he wants her. Their encounter sets off a series of events that leave them both with fresh pain and hurt. Angry, they leave Abuja to their destinations. If they didn’t set eyes on each other again it would be too soon. But little did they know that fate has another thing planned. Will they stick it out long enough for the Potter to perfect their scars and pain for His purpose or will distance and time steal the day.  Thirty minutes later, Jabir was in the KTN lobby waiting for Damisi. He got curious stares from the receptionist and guard. He didn’t know whether it was because he looked like Kamal—someone they’d recognize—or because Damisi never received male visitors. He hoped it was the latter. The space was decorated in light colors, and the walls were decorated with paintings or pictures of guests of their shows. He walked to the one the one that had Damisi in it. She was on the set of her show and looked beautiful. She had a microphone in her hand and was smiling. From the picture, he could see she loved what she did. His eyes saddened at what the scandal would do to her career. If they acted fast, she might have a chance of salvaging it, but she was too stubborn, and his approach wasn’t helping either. He had to get her to see reason. “What are you doing here?” she whispered behind him. Jabir turned around and marveled at how gorgeous she looked. He smiled inwardly. “I figured you could use breakfast.” He handed her the smoothie and the box of pastries. She took it from him slowly, her eyes softening with gratitude. “Thank you, but you shouldn’t be here.” Jabir frowned. “Why? Expecting someone?” She grabbed his wrist and tried to pull him to the corner. He resisted at first, but caved when he saw the plea in her eyes. “I really appreciate the breakfast, but I thought you were supposed to be on your way to Badagry. I really don’t need any rumors started.” He lifted his brow. “Rumors? I’m not doing anything but making sure you’re fed. The baby needs to eat.” She looked around in shocked horror. “Shhhh. Do you want to say it a little louder?” She rolled her eyes at him and he chuckled. “Jabir, please you can’t be here. In case you forgot, you look like one of the most recognizable Nigerian soccer players. I can’t do the rumor mill now.” He wanted to dismiss her argument, but he was running late, and she was right. But then he had another idea. “Okay, I’ll leave on one condition.” “Really?” “Really.” He smirked. Some people walked past them and did a double take. Damisi panicked. “What is it?” “Have dinner with me when I get back.” Damisi hesitated, then someone she knew walked over to say hello to them. By now, he could see the fury in her eyes. The daggers in them were aimed at him. He raised his eyebrow. “I can’t believe you. Okay. Go,” she said hurriedly and turned away. He watched her go, but smiled when she walked back his way. “Thank you, and please drive safe.” Yep. This new approach just might work. There was hope. Connect with Unoma... Connect Socially Twitter: https://twitter.com/unwankwor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UNwankworAuthor/ Website: https://unomanwankwor.com/ Purchase Link Amazon: http://amzn.to/2uKvhPN Tour hosted by Write Now Literary Book Tours  Thanks for joining me for another Fab Friday Feature! Please leave a comment below. Unoma would love to hear from you! To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner. For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter. 
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 Parenthood brings its challenges, and it definitely becomes a challenge when you're raising a child on your own. Naomi has found a pretty delicate balance between her career and motherhood, but she doesn't have much of a personal life. When her ex/daughter's father returns she begins rethinking all of her decisions and redefining her new reality...It's another #writerwednesday. About A Woman's Design: Afflictions... 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. Excerpt - Mending Fences... “Hey, Naomi. I spoke with her, and for once, she didn’t scream at me. I don’t know what you’ve been saying on your end, but thank you. I mean, she listened to what I had to say. She didn’t have much to say, but I did ask if I could spend a day with her. She said she would be open to it, but I needed to talk with you first. You raised her well; she won’t do anything without your approval,” Jaime stated. Hmph, if only he knew. She had done quite a few things lately without my approval, starting with a white mini skirt and a boy in my home. But I wouldn’t go there for now. I would focus on helping her build a relationship with her father, and maybe we could address any future issues that arose together. This may have been just what was needed to get my daughter back on track. “Yeah, well, I did my best. So, what do you want to do?” I asked. “Well, I was hoping next weekend I could get her on Saturday and hang out with her. I don’t know, maybe go jet-skiing, shoot some hoops, and grab a bite to eat. I know you told me she plays ball, but I don’t know how she’ll feel about jet-skiing.” “You can ask, but I think she’ll be open to that.” It was my turn to get up and walk out the room. I didn’t want my daughter to hear the jealousy that might rise in my voice when I asked my next question. “Cool, maybe we can grab a bite to eat at Havana’s Cocina and talk about our culture.” “That sounds like a good idea, too. Is it going to be just you and her, Jaime?” I asked, walking down the hall and looking back to make sure my daughter wasn’t following me.  “Yeah. I thought maybe it would give her a chance to get to know me and me a chance to get to know her without any other distractions. Would you like to come?” he invited. “No. I think it should just be the two of you,” I responded. I didn’t want to give his wife any reasons for concern or jealousy. After all, she was just learning her husband had another child they would have to share him with. She didn’t need another woman to share his time with, as well. “All right, if you’re sure,” he agreed. “I’m sure.” “If you change your mind, Naomi, I would love to have you. I kind of thought fishing would be good, because of that one-on-one time, but she might get bored by that,” he shared. “She definitely would. I’m sure whatever you settle on will be just fine for the two of you. With the exception of fishing, though. Neither of us have ever been fishing kinds of girls,” I joked. Jaime laughed softly and then spoke. “Yeah, I do recall that you weren’t the outdoorsy type. And you always hated worms, especially after the rain,” he reminisced. “They were always so slimy and gave me the creeps. Just nasty, even when I think about them now, ewww!” I exclaimed. We both laughed and then went silent on the phone for a moment. “Thank you, Naomi. Thank you so much for giving me this opportunity. And I’m sorry, I’m so sorry for hurting you and—” “Don’t do this. You don’t have to keep apologizing and going down that road. It’s not about me anymore, it’s about our daughter. If we’re going to move forward in this, it’s time to leave the past behind. At least with me anyway,” I corrected him. I couldn’t do the reminiscing thing; it would only serve to hurt me further and I had worked hard to move on from the past.  Download Now... About Chelle Ramsey...  Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey brings a refreshing perspective into the lives of her readers and wants them to find entertainment, healing and inspiration in each novel. Using real problems and challenges faced by ordinary people, Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in God, and belief in themselves. Her stories are relatable to individuals of diverse demographics, who have suffered a loss, been hurt, have low self-esteem, have lost hope, or need a word of encouragement. She strives to take your emotions on a roller coaster ride, one page at a time. Chelle holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, which she puts to use in her Human Resources role by day, while she writes her fiction novels at night. And in her spare time, she’s a blogger, freelance writer, and ghostwriter. Her most important roles are those of a wife and mother of three. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods. Chelle Ramsey resides in a rural community in Atlanta, Georgia and enjoys writing, family time, and watching NBA games. 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. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon. LINKS: WEB: www.chelleramsey.com EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com FACEBOOK: ChelleWrites TWITTER: @UndeniablyChell PINTEREST: ChellesBooks INSTAGRAM: UndeniablyChelle Thanks for joining me for another Writer Wednesday! Please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner. For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter.   When adversity comes what will you do? Will you run away hoping it will disappear in time, or will you stand strong to endure what must come? Will you hide away from the world and cry, or will you come out swinging like a prize fighter? Will you look for your supporters and wonder where they are, or will you look to your Higher Power and find strength and comfort? It is in these moments that we learn who we truly are and what we’re made of. It’s always easy to feel sorry for ourselves and think about how the situations weren’t our fault. But whether we find ourselves in adverse situations created by our own hands, or those beyond our control, mental and spiritual preparation will see us through. Adversity does come to build our character and make us stronger. No, it is not an easy task, but the molding and the shaping that comes during the test, will be well worth the battle wounds if we just endure. Going through adversity with a negative attitude hinders you from learning what you are supposed to learn, and gaining what you should gain in the process. But when you learn to look past the difficulty and the pain of the moment, and dig deep inside, you will find you had what it takes to make it through all along. In my novel, A Woman's Design: Afflictions, all three of the characters face adversity, but perhaps, Naomi handles it best of all. She's strong and she is the epitome of strength when her girlfriends Ambiance and Paige face adversity, as well. When her father's daughter returns to their lives, her world is somewhat rocked by the threat of upheaval. She has never had to share her daughter's love or time with anyone, except her close family and friends. Naomi has built her life around Sasha and has protected her from external forces. Now that Jaime has returned with a wife and kids, she's uncertain how exposing him to Sasha will impact her daughter, and the relationship she shares with her. She's also scared of what it may do to her heart...after all, he was her first and only love. Naomi searches for strength within her family, her friends, and herself, yet it is ultimately in the Lord that she must trust to make it through this challenge. Come back on Wednesday to read an excerpt of how it unfolds for Naomi, Sasha, and Jaime. To read the book, click the link below... Download Now...  About Chelle Ramsey...  Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey brings a refreshing perspective into the lives of her readers and wants them to find entertainment, healing and inspiration in each novel. Using real problems and challenges faced by ordinary people, Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in God, and belief in themselves. Her stories are relatable to individuals of diverse demographics, who have suffered a loss, been hurt, have low self-esteem, have lost hope, or need a word of encouragement. She strives to take your emotions on a roller coaster ride, one page at a time. Chelle holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, which she puts to use in her Human Resources role by day, while she writes her fiction novels at night. And in her spare time, she’s a blogger, freelance writer, and ghostwriter. Her most important roles are those of a wife and mother of three. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods. Chelle Ramsey resides in a rural community in Atlanta, Georgia and enjoys writing, family time, and watching NBA games. 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. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon. LINKS: WEB: www.chelleramsey.com EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com FACEBOOK: ChelleWrites TWITTER: @UndeniablyChell PINTEREST: ChellesBooks INSTAGRAM: UndeniablyChelle Thanks for joining me for another Motivational Monday Moment! Please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner. For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter.   Welcome, readers! This Fab Friday we're featuring an interview with Sheena Binkley, getting to know her up close and personal. Jump on in, grab your favorite beverage, and curl up for a good chat. The Interview... CHELLE: Plotter or Pantser? SHEENA: Definitely a Pantser CHELLE: Tell us a little about yourself? Who is Sheena the woman? SHEENA: I am a very ambitious, driven, goal-oriented individual who loves a challenge. I love to be creative and go outside of the box with each book that I’ve released. Even though I may be bold with my writing, I’m completely different in real life. I’m very quiet and a bit shy. CHELLE: Wow! I wonder how many of your readers would have guessed that. Your personality online is anything but. (LOL!) You definitely exude confidence when you engage your readers online. Writing can be demanding, not to mention marketing your books. How do you create work/life balance being an author? SHEENA: Having a work/life balance can be extremely hard, especially when you have a family. When I have an off day and my son is at school and my fiancé at work, I allow myself a few hours to get some writing done. When I do have a deadline to fulfill, I do spend more time writing; that includes late-night writing. I even write while I’m at work too (when I have the down time, of course). CHELLE: I recall those days. I miss being able to do the writing at work during the downtime. I still sneak time in late nights every so often. But back to you. LOL!! Describe a day around your house and in your ordinary life where writing is not key. SHEENA: When I’m not writing, a typical day at work include either going to work, or on my off day, taking and picking up my son from school. After school, I’ll help with his homework, and later we all have family time where we all discuss our day. CHELLE: Most authors have a routine they settle into when they prepare to write. Yet, others toss routine out the window and go with the flow. Tell us about your writing routine. SHEENA: When I first started writing, I did have a routine in which I would plot, plan and execute a particular storyline. Now, I’ll just go with the flow and write whatever’s on my mind. I’ll have a lot of ideas in which I’ll just start writing when I have a chance to. CHELLE: Being a pantser is such a freeing experience. Pandora or Spotify? What would we find on your playlist? SHEENA: Definitely Spotify. As for my playlist, I love old school music, so you’ll find Earth, Wind, & Fire, Isley Brothers, MSFB, Cameo; the list goes on. You’ll also find some other artists, including Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, Solange, and even Shawn Mendes (yes, I love his music!). CHELLE: Cameo, EW&F, and Isley Brothers…girl, you took it way back! I think you’ve just inspired me to create an EW&F and Isley Brothers station. Now that can definitely get you in a writing mood for some steamy love scenes! Either that or making babies one. Whew! Okay, Sheena…Did you keep a journal or diary as a child growing up? If so, what secret did you not want your parents to read? SHEENA: I kept a diary when I was younger, but I didn’t have any secrets, lol. I was on the straight and narrow, so I didn’t do anything bad growing up. CHELLE: Mm-hmm…you saved it all for the books. I see you. What genre do you write and why? What authors have influenced your writings? SHEENA: I mainly write romance, but I have released books in several sub-genres, including New Adult, Interracial, and Urban. The authors that have influenced my writing including Carl Weber, Reshonda Tate Billingsley, and even new powerhouse authors, Christina C. Jones, and Alexandria Warren. CHELLE: Christina is definitely out there doing her thing! If you could pair up with another author to write, who would you choose and why? SHEENA: I would love to collaborate with Alithea-Jae Smith. She’s one of my authors from my publishing company, and she is such a talented author. Our writing style is sort of similar to each other’s, so I know if we ever do a story together, it would be a perfect fit. We have talked about collaborating, but with our busy schedules, we haven’t found the time to. Hopefully we will in the future. CHELLE: Sounds like you just have to make it happen. Stop and set an appointment on your calendar to reach out to her and map it out. I’m sure both of your fans would love it. If your latest release were turned into a movie, what actors would you select to play the starring roles, and what music would comprise the soundtrack? SHEENA: I would have to go with my Love, Life, & Happiness spin-off, Real Love for this one. The actors I would select to play the heroine and hero would be Keisha Chante (Riana) and Trey Songz (Shawn). With the soundtrack, I actually have a book playlist that includes “That’s What I Like” by Bruno Mars, “You Know That I Love You” by Donnell Jones, “Love Me Now” by John Legend, and “Say Yes” by Floetry. CHELLE: Okay, so I had to go to Google on that one. I’ve never heard of Keisha Chante before, so I’ll have to check out her music. That playlist is an excellent one…I love Donnell Jones, especially that song. How do you handle writer’s block? SHEENA: With writer’s block, I usually would take a break and watch TV or listen to music. When I listen to music, it does give me ideas on a certain scene and it helps me to get back on my computer and write. So listening to music does help a lot. CHELLE: Mountains or the beach? SHEENA: The beach  CHELLE: Provide one marketing tip for upcoming authors that has worked for you. SHEENA: Having a social media presence does help market your brand. Getting to interact with your readers is so important as an author; therefore, being able to go online at any time and posting about your books or even random comments will not only help with creating a great relationship with current readers, but also with readers who are interested in your work. CHELLE: Thanks for sharing that tip with upcoming authors, Sheena. That’s an excellent one that authors can work well. If there was one thing you would want your readers to know after reading your works, what would it be? SHEENA: That writing is my passion and I love HEAs, so each book that I have published is from the heart and that I put my all into every book that I have created. CHELLE: Writers often have to forsake time with friends and family when deadlines are looming, or the creative muse is flowing. What one person has been your greatest supporter on your publishing journey? SHEENA: Wow, I would have to say my fiancé. He has always been understanding with my writing and that’s something that I would always appreciate from him. CHELLE: Awww…that’s so sweet. I’m sure he appreciates you, too. Describe your idea of the perfect “me-time.” SHEENA: Getting a mani-pedi and just relaxing. CHELLE: Kobe or LeBron? SHEENA: LeBron. Never liked Kobe. CHELLE: Ohhh! Don’t say that, Sheena. We live life beautifully inspired here, at The Beautifully Inspired Blog. Leave us with an inspirational post, comprised of three words. SHEENA: Motivated, happy, blessed. CHELLE: Beautiful words! Sheena, thanks darling for dropping by. It’s been a pleasure. Well, people, you’ve gotten a different glimpse of Sheena than you may have seen before. Check her out at the links below, and leave her a comment. She’d love to hear from you. Connect with Sheena... Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Sheena-Binkley/e/B00CSTNTIG/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1 Email: sheenabinkley@live.com Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/authorSheenaBinkley Blog: http://sheenabinkley.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/sheenabinkleyauthor (Like Page) Twitter: @ChevonBink Google +: https://plus.google.com/+sheenabinkley Pinterest: Sheena Binkley Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/577100099053119/?fref=ts Mailing List: http://eepurl.com/bY22E9 Thanks for joining me for another Fab Friday Feature! Please leave a comment below. Sheena would love to hear from you! To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner. For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter.   Today's #writerwednesday shares a preview from my upcoming novel, A Woman's Design: Redemption. In the first book, A Woman's Design: Afflictions, Paige had quite a few intimate encounters of the sexual nature with various men. There's one that she will never forget, because it was a lightweight wakeup call. Today, she comes face-to-face with that encounter in the most unlikely environment and situation. A knock at my door pulled my attention from my laptop to the doorway. “Paige, it’s time.” My supervisor, Gloria, had stuck her head in the door calling me to the emergency staff meeting. Logging off my system I gathered my iPad, phone and keys, and followed her down the corridor to conference room D. The other social workers and case managers had already gathered around the table. The room was filled with the sound of buzzing bees as everyone gossiped, trying to determine what the meeting was about. I walked to the head of the table as I usually did to sit to the right of Gloria. It was a power play I used to send the message to everyone that I was her right hand. The other case managers often vied for her attention in an effort to get the most promising cases, the best resources, and maximum favors. I had already cornered the market on that a few years back. Gloria and I had become best work buddies through the years, sometimes having lunch together, or drinks after work. She had always believed we were close at work and away from work, but there was another side of me she had not known. At least until the news flashed my story on TVs across the Metro Atlanta area. There was still a lot she didn’t know and I preferred to keep it that way. I looked around the table at my peers and rolled my eyes. They seldom had time to be bothered with me, and it had always been just fine by me. The wall I had carefully constructed to keep others out closed me in. Co-workers I had known for years maintained a distant air. At holiday parties and staff functions if I wasn’t socializing with Gloria, I found myself alone, or in the corner with my male constituents, or someone’s husband. “Alright people, let’s get this show started,” Gloria stated, shuffling a stack of papers in front of her. Everyone calmed down and focused their attention on her. “Let’s start this meeting off by first giving an update on your current case log. Amanda we’ll start with you,” Gloria said, pointing at a young blonde, brown-eyed woman. She was new to our agency and was still disillusioned to the point of believing she could and would make a difference. Amanda spoke up and gave updates on her case log. The meeting went on like that until everyone, yours truly included had updated Gloria on our cases. Gloria took care of a few tasks like reassigning a couple of caseloads temporarily, while two case managers went on vacation. One of the perks of my friendship with Gloria was that I was not on the receiving end of said caseloads. I knew the fact I never had to oversee their caseloads while they were on vacation, although they had to oversee mine pissed off most of my co-workers. “Okay. Now we’ve gotten the primary business out of the way let’s get down to the real reason for this meeting. I know you’re all wondering why I called this last minute meeting, so I won’t keep you in suspense any longer. First, let me say thank you for dropping everything and being here. I appreciate that you are all overburdened with caseloads and seldom have time to eat lunch or breathe, let alone run to a last minute meeting. You are a great team and I appreciate the hard work and diligence you bring to this department. Which is why it’s difficult for me to tell you…goodbye.” There was a shocked silence for almost a minute before the murmuring began. I stared at the wall across from me for a while before I blinked out of my daze. What happens now? What about those perks I’ve been banking on? These thoughts floated around in my head as I sat quietly next to her. “Does this call for congratulations?” Iris Jordan another senior social worker inquired. “Actually it does. I’m getting married at the end of this month to a wonderful man I’ve been dating for the last five years. We’re moving back to his hometown in Boston where I’ve already landed a position with their Department of Family and Children Services division.” I turned to look at Gloria and it suddenly dawned on me. Maybe this friendship wasn’t as lopsided as I had believed at first. Obviously she was as unattached to it as I had been. I had no idea she was in a relationship, let alone one so serious it was leading to marriage. Moving to Boston? Where had that come from? That was another of those ‘aha moments’ that pointed out to me just how self-absorbed I had been. My world revolved around me and for some reason I thought everyone else’s should, as well. “So, is your position posted for re-hire?” Rich Bradenton was always looking for a promotion. He was probably the laziest person on the team and had been turned down for every promotion he sought. “Actually it isn’t. Only external candidates were recruited for this position, and only applicants who had been in a similar role. It’s being reshaped to take on more responsibilities than I have been responsible for. Your new supervisor will be taking this department in a new direction; however, I must admit that you are in very capable hands. I promise you won’t be disappointed and in fact—” Gloria broke off and looked at her watch, before glancing at the door. “If you all will excuse me for just a moment. My replacement should be here any minute,” she said, walking to the opened door and peeking her head into the hallway. She pulled the door slightly closed behind herself and began conversing with someone in the hall. Some people peeked tried unsuccessfully to get a glimpse of who she was speaking with. “Can you see?” Adele Scoggins asked Iris Jordan. “Uh-uh. I can’t see a thing,” she said, straining her scrawny neck like a crane. “I still can’t believe they didn’t tell us. I’d’ve liked to have applied for the position. Can you believe I wasn’t even considered?” Rich Bradenton complained with his face in his right hand. “It’s okay, Rich. They said they were revamping the position. Maybe it was something you wouldn’t have wanted anyway.” That was Yvette Rhodes. She had been in love with Rich forever, despite the fact he was very married. “You think?” he asked, looking at her to stroke his ego. I could tell from the desperate look on her face she wanted to do more than stroke his ego. Poor Yvette, Rich either never realized her infatuation with him, or he refused to acknowledge it. He wouldn’t give her a bone to lick. No pun intended. Hell, yes there was. Who am I kidding? Our attention over our miseries was brought up short when a smiling Gloria stepped back into the room. “Team, I would like to introduce you to my replacement, and your new supervisor, Jacob Hawthorne.” My heart started pounding rapidly because surely I had heard incorrectly. Gail stepped aside and I almost crapped my pants! He stood there in the flesh, looking finer and sexier than he ever had before. I wanted to crawl underneath the table and disappear. Too late! His eyes landed on me and his lips twisted up in a quirky, mischievous smile and his warm cocoa brown eyes darkened. I could see something there smoldering. I could’ve sworn Jacob undressed me with his eyes right at that table. I had always been a confident woman when it came to my appearance and body. At that moment I wanted to cover up and hide. I felt as if everyone in the room could see my nude body. All of a sudden my white three-quarter sleeve ruffled blouse and black and white mid-skirt was not enough clothing. I looked down at my iPad in front of me and pretended to be scrolling through my notes. My already light face flushed red. I could feel the heat creeping all over my body and the tingling in my legs begin. I couldn’t believe this. I was in a room full of people and this man had the ability to make me feel ways I had not felt in two years. I didn’t have this reaction to him the other day in the parking lot, why now? Was he toying with me? When I looked back up at him he had one finger at his temple, smiling at me with his bottom lip between his teeth. He was mentally fucking me and I was getting wet! Damn! I risked a glance around the table and was surprised to see no one was watching me. All eyes were on him and Gloria as she introduced the team. When I looked back at him he had turned his attention elsewhere. At that moment I determined God must really have a sense of humor. If He was angry at the way I had pushed Him away, He was exacting revenge at this moment. A Woman's Design: Redemption Coming Soon CHECK OUT BOOK 1 NOW: A WOMAN'S DESIGN: AFFLICTIONS CLICK THE IMAGE BELOW  Download Now... Please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner. To read my novels, visit Chelle's Book Cafe For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter.   Romans 8:24-25 For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. It's hard waiting and expecting something and never seeing the manifestation of the thing you're hoping for. In the beginning you're like a little child waiting on Christmas. You know that it's coming because it's been promised, you only have to wait for that day to arrive to get your just reward. But in other ways it isn't anything like a child waiting for Christmas. That child can see the gifts under the tree, he sees all the decorations and hears the songs playing on the radio, and sees the movies on TV. So he knows that it's coming, because it always does at the same time every year. But with you, you have no idea of when it's coming and there aren't any signs to show the manifestation of the thing you're hoping for is on the way. But you stand by faith, believing that in time you shall receive. But then the days and weeks turn into months and you continue to pray and wait, and pray, and wait some more. But what happens when those months turns into years? It's so easy to give up if you haven't begun to see the manifestation of a promise in your life. We begin to become confused thinking maybe that wasn't promised to me, or maybe I misunderstood. Sometimes you even question your clarity thinking maybe it was me speaking and not God. Some people get to a place of feeling they haven't received because they don't deserve. Well truthfully none of us deserves His goodness. But He blesses us anyway, not because we deserve it, but because He's just that good. Have you ever considered that during the waiting there's something else you're supposed to be getting out of the wait? Have you ever thought the waiting was for a reason? Maybe you haven't received the thing you're hoping for yet, because you haven't gotten the lesson out of the wait. Sometimes we go through ordeals or wait times, because He wants us to learn something during that time. Whether that lesson is strength, patience, humility, faith, compassion or something else it doesn't matter. If it's His plan for our lives it will be made manifest at His time, not ours. " For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11. It may be a few years, a few months, or several years but don't give up on God. As the song says, "...because He won't give up on you." During the wait ask Him what is it that He wants you to learn, what does He want you to get out of the experience? And then sit quietly and listen. He'll tell you because He simply wants you to come to Him. Be blessed my friend and continue to wait with love, expectancy, and faith. But during the wait, do the work and wait with a purpose. For when you know your purpose, you can fulfill your greatest potentials. Thanks for joining me for another Motivational Monday Moment! Please leave a comment below. I would love to hear from you! If you enjoyed this post, I encourage you to share it with others, by clicking the social media icon on the upper left-hand panel. To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner. To read more about my books, click HERE. For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter. About Chelle Ramsey...  Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey brings a refreshing perspective into the lives of her readers and wants them to find entertainment, healing and inspiration in each novel. Using real problems and challenges faced by ordinary people, Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in God, and belief in themselves. Her stories are relatable to individuals of diverse demographics, who have suffered a loss, been hurt, have low self-esteem, have lost hope, or need a word of encouragement. She strives to take your emotions on a roller coaster ride, one page at a time. Chelle holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, which she puts to use in her Human Resources role by day, while she writes her fiction novels at night. And in her spare time, she’s a blogger, freelance writer, and ghostwriter. Her most important roles are those of a wife and mother of three. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods. Chelle Ramsey resides in a rural community in Atlanta, Georgia and enjoys writing, family time, and watching NBA games. 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. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon. LINKS: WEB: www.chelleramsey.com EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com FACEBOOK: ChelleWrites TWITTER: @UndeniablyChell PINTEREST: ChellesBooks INSTAGRAM: UndeniablyChelle   Broken Spirit by Rose Jackson-Beavers |
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I had begun to lose my interest and desire for my husband because of his treatment of me. So, my attitude tonight was another way to keep him from trying to get too close. I was hoping, if anything, it would push him away. I felt like if my husband didn’t care about our marriage, neither did I. I was tired of putting all the hard work in while he ran the streets.
“Ambiance, what’s wrong with you, girl? You’re acting like it’s the end of the world. You’re going to break those dishes if you keep tossing them around like that.”
That was my husband, Eric. At six-foot-one with a warm, brown sugar complexion, piercing dark eyes, and full kissable lips, he was definitely a charmer and a looker. Women had a hard time ignoring his looks, and that was what kept him in trouble. The fact that he was a very nice dresser and always smelled so delicious didn’t hurt either. His physical build was more like that of a baseball player. He was definitely muscular and toned, but not overtly so…like a certain man named Nick. But none of that was swaying me tonight.
Eric was standing in front of me now with one hand on the counter and the other wiping down his face.
“Come here, quit acting so mean and hateful,” he stated.
What did he mean? What did he expect after years of his ignoring me and his treatment of me earlier? I really didn’t want to discuss it with him. He had gone too far, and I didn’t know if I wanted him to turn back now. I didn’t want to work things out anymore, and it seemed as if that was exactly what he was trying to do.
“Look, Ambiance, I know things between us have been off for some time now, and I know it’s my fault. I messed up the first year of our marriage, when we should’ve been getting to know one another as husband and wife. I know it took some time for you to forgive me, but…it was hard being pushed away during those times. And I’m sorry about my attitude earlier.”
He had placed both of his arms on either side of me, not allowing me to move away from him. I was trapped as he pressed his manhood against my behind. I tamped down the feelings for him I felt swelling up inside of me.
“Well, good, now you know how I felt when you weren’t around. When you were out whoring around and running the streets. Even now, you don’t always come home at night. I don’t know where you’ve been, or who you’ve been doing,” I huffed, slamming a dish into the soapy water, causing bubbles to fly back up in my face.
“You mean, what I’ve been doing?” he asked, as he began pressing little kisses down my neck. I took a deep breath and held it in.
“No, I said it right the first time. I don’t know who you’ve been doing.”
“Ambiance, what’s wrong with you, girl? You’re acting like it’s the end of the world. You’re going to break those dishes if you keep tossing them around like that.”
That was my husband, Eric. At six-foot-one with a warm, brown sugar complexion, piercing dark eyes, and full kissable lips, he was definitely a charmer and a looker. Women had a hard time ignoring his looks, and that was what kept him in trouble. The fact that he was a very nice dresser and always smelled so delicious didn’t hurt either. His physical build was more like that of a baseball player. He was definitely muscular and toned, but not overtly so…like a certain man named Nick. But none of that was swaying me tonight.
Eric was standing in front of me now with one hand on the counter and the other wiping down his face.
“Come here, quit acting so mean and hateful,” he stated.
What did he mean? What did he expect after years of his ignoring me and his treatment of me earlier? I really didn’t want to discuss it with him. He had gone too far, and I didn’t know if I wanted him to turn back now. I didn’t want to work things out anymore, and it seemed as if that was exactly what he was trying to do.
“Look, Ambiance, I know things between us have been off for some time now, and I know it’s my fault. I messed up the first year of our marriage, when we should’ve been getting to know one another as husband and wife. I know it took some time for you to forgive me, but…it was hard being pushed away during those times. And I’m sorry about my attitude earlier.”
He had placed both of his arms on either side of me, not allowing me to move away from him. I was trapped as he pressed his manhood against my behind. I tamped down the feelings for him I felt swelling up inside of me.
“Well, good, now you know how I felt when you weren’t around. When you were out whoring around and running the streets. Even now, you don’t always come home at night. I don’t know where you’ve been, or who you’ve been doing,” I huffed, slamming a dish into the soapy water, causing bubbles to fly back up in my face.
“You mean, what I’ve been doing?” he asked, as he began pressing little kisses down my neck. I took a deep breath and held it in.
“No, I said it right the first time. I don’t know who you’ve been doing.”
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About Chelle.
Women's fiction author and blogger, Chelle Ramsey brings a refreshing perspective into the lives of her readers and wants them to find entertainment, healing and inspiration in each novel. Using real problems and challenges faced by ordinary people, Chelle wants readers to become empowered to rise above life's adversities, with faith in God, and belief in themselves.
Her stories are relatable to individuals of diverse demographics, who have suffered a loss, been hurt, have low self-esteem, have lost hope, or need a word of encouragement. She strives to take your emotions on a roller coaster ride, one page at a time. Chelle holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, which she puts to use in her Human Resources role by day, while she writes her fiction novels at night. And in her spare time, she’s a blogger, freelance writer, and ghostwriter.
Her most important roles are those of a wife and mother of three. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods. Chelle Ramsey resides in a rural community in Atlanta, Georgia and enjoys writing, family time, and watching NBA games.
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. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon.
LINKS:
WEB: www.chelleramsey.com
EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: ChelleWrites
TWITTER: @UndeniablyChell
PINTEREST: ChellesBooks
INSTAGRAM: UndeniablyChelle
Her stories are relatable to individuals of diverse demographics, who have suffered a loss, been hurt, have low self-esteem, have lost hope, or need a word of encouragement. She strives to take your emotions on a roller coaster ride, one page at a time. Chelle holds an MBA in Human Resource Management, which she puts to use in her Human Resources role by day, while she writes her fiction novels at night. And in her spare time, she’s a blogger, freelance writer, and ghostwriter.
Her most important roles are those of a wife and mother of three. During her “me time,” she becomes enraptured with the enthralling stories of Terry McMillan, Nora Roberts, James Patterson and Stuart Woods. Chelle Ramsey resides in a rural community in Atlanta, Georgia and enjoys writing, family time, and watching NBA games.
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. Her novels can be found online at Chelle Ramsey Amazon.
LINKS:
WEB: www.chelleramsey.com
EMAIL: chelleramseywrites@gmail.com
FACEBOOK: ChelleWrites
TWITTER: @UndeniablyChell
PINTEREST: ChellesBooks
INSTAGRAM: UndeniablyChelle
Please leave a comment below. Chelle would love to hear from you!
To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
To read my novels, visit Chelle's Book Cafe
For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter.
To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
To read my novels, visit Chelle's Book Cafe
For exclusive content, contests, cover reveals, and more join my newsletter.
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