Ambiance's world is designed around fashion, and she's the diva of her world. Whether it's at the local boutique where she's a personal shopper, or in her personal fashion consulting business, she has everything under her command. She knows what people want and how to serve it up well. But, when it comes to the affairs of the heart and her personal life, she's in turmoil. Growing up in the church, she knows her relationship with the Lord is the most important thing in her life. Or it should be; however, she's fallen away and her lack of a spiritual life has caused her marriage to fall into disarray. Pastor Boyd began preaching after another ten minutes of a praise session. I listened to him for quite some time. But it was the ending message that pricked my heart and really gained my attention. Before then, I had been listening half-heartedly while thinking about my life, and the run-in with Kendra at the hospital. “There are so many scriptures in the book of Psalms you can go to for encouragement in your hour of need. His word is there for guidance, power, and enlightenment. God simply wants you to come to Him as you are. Many people say ‘Pastor, I don’t know the scriptures that well,’ or, ‘I can’t pray the way you pray.’ It’s not about knowing the right scriptures or praying in a certain way. You talk to your Heavenly Father the same way that you talk to me or your best friend. It doesn’t need to be some pumped-up prayer. Psalms thirty and two says, ‘O Lord my God, I called to You for help and You healed me.’ God desires to be Jehovah Rapha to you, which is the Lord that heals. Whether your infirmity is in your mind, body, heart, or spirit, He is the God who heals all manner of sickness and disease. Simply call out to Him, and He will hear your cry and be faithful to heal you. If you can do no more than say, ‘God, I need You!’ you can stand in faith knowing that He will come to your rescue. Because He loves you just that much. He doesn’t want to see His children suffering. He desires for you to live an abundant and prosperous life. No, God doesn’t want you to suffer, He longs to make you whole.” “Amen!” a few people shouted out. “Preach it, Pastor!” “Open your heart to God and allow Him to come and truly enter in. He is to be revered in all areas of your life. As you trust Him with your finances, and as you trust Him with your relationship, learn to trust Him with your heart. He will take care of you. He will heal your broken heart and lift your infirmities from you. His word says, ‘Come onto Me all who labor and are heavy burdened and I will give you rest.’ God wants to take your burden from you and allow you to enter His perfect rest. Because He lovingly offers it to us, we should accept it. We can only enter that rest through His precious word. Spending time in His word and Presence is necessary to enter that rest. When we have faith in Him and trust Him to take care of our heart and our healing, then and only then have we entered that rest. In that rest, there is strength. There is power in that rest. There is peace in that rest. And there is healing in that rest. God wants to give it to you today, my brothers and sisters.” Pastor Boyd stepped down from the pulpit, flanked by six other ministers with his arms outstretched. “If you need rest today, come. Come to the altar, and give it all to God. If you have never accepted Him as your Lord and Savior, now is the time. Tomorrow’s not promised. Or, if you say, ‘Pastor, I gave my life to Him a while ago, but somewhere along the way, I fell by the wayside.’ It’s okay, my child, we all struggle, we all sin and fall short of His glory. You can rededicate yourselves today. Or, if you simply find yourself in the need of prayer, come to the altar now. Come, won’t you come and enter His rest?” he petitioned. I felt a tugging in my heart. I knew I needed to walk down there and accept the offer. The only reason it was so hard was because I had been entrenched in fear that I had allowed to take root in my heart. That was what the enemy wanted. It was time for me to truly give it up to God. I had no answers. I didn’t know whether Eric would wake up tomorrow or in a few months. And when he did wake up, I had no clue if he would stay with me or leave to be with his mistress and child. I knew I had been playing a dangerous game of fire with Nick. I had not truly repented from the mistakes I had made. My heart was sorry for the things I had done, and I longed to be forgiven. I pushed past the person standing on my right and made my way down that aisle. When I reached the end of the aisle, my father, Deacon Richardson, was waiting with open arms. I saw nothing except for my father, who stood to Pastor Boyd’s right, waiting for me. I almost flew into my father’s arms and bawled my eyes out. I had come home, and it felt so right. Download A Woman's Design: Afflictions 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!
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"Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised." Proverbs 31:30
*Don't forget the required Mani-Pedi. Women spend astronomical amounts every year, in each of these categories. We prioritize making sure our appearance is on point, and that we carefully craft and project the image we want others to see. Whether we purchase the top brands or the more economical ones, we seldom count the cost of beauty. The cost we fail to count, is the time and attention we pour into our beauty regimen, shopping, and exercise routines to get ourselves where we perceive we should be, based on society's standards. What is the most important part of your physical regimen?
We often spend more time on these areas of our lives than on the spiritual level. Yet, the spirit man is the part of our lives that has a greater long-term impact than any other. There is no fiscal price we can associate with the time spent in prayer, studying the Word of God, or simply praising Him. Yet, the cost is much more exorbitant. Our souls and the relationship we enjoy with our Heavenly Father are invaluable. Yet, we sometimes fail to nurture this area as much as we do the other areas of our lives. Fear of the Lord stems from a reverence that we have of Him, allowing us to stand strong against falling into our own sinful nature. It stems from discipline and instruction in His ways, which is the beginning of wisdom. As we learn to fear the Lord, our lives become a reflection of this. The way we walk, talk, think, interact with others, and respond to life in general, becomes the essence of God Almighty in our lives. Do others see Christ in your actions? Or are they impacted more by your physical beauty? I don't suggest that we not make the beautification of our physical, external selves a priority. I only say that we focus more on the internal beauty, and all other things will fall into place. What we seek on the outside will come from the inside, if we allow the love of Christ to shine from within. It's been another Motivational Monday Moment. What can you do to improve your inner beauty? 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. It's another #writerwednesday and with Thanksgiving tomorrow, some of us may be dreading the drama that comes with it. Not the dried turkey, the cake that fell, or the stuffing with eggshells in it. Nope, I'm talking about the family drama that comes with that one specific person, or several persons. Today, Christina is facing the same issues. It's the dinner before Thanksgiving dinner and drama is about to kick off in her family. Will things ever be the same, and will they make it to Thanksgiving dinner? Read on... “Ma…would you love us no matter what we’ve done?” “Yeah, baby…you know I would. Why, what have you done this time?” she asked in a half teasing manner and half serious, because she knew her oldest child well. “I haven’t done anything,” Christina modestly replied, placing her hand on her chest to emphasize the word “I.” “So what are you saying…is this about your sister and her Hispanic boyfriend again?” “Nope…Ma, I’m actually being serious here. Chloe is bringing Javier and Drew may bring company, as well. All I’m saying, Ma, is sometimes we talk among ourselves and we don’t tell you everything. I think we all want to be open and free to be who we are with you…but we don’t wanna be lectured, or made to feel guilty, we just wanna be loved for who we are.” “Girl, what is you talking about, say what you gon’ say or leave it be,” Beverly replied. “Ma, I’m just asking that whatever comes up could you please be on your best behavior?” she pleaded with her mother as the doorbell rang. Before her mother had a chance to quiz her again, Christina had slipped out the kitchen and ran to open the front door to her Aunt June and Uncle Snookie. Uncle Snookie already had a few sips in him coming in the door, and he was looking for more as he bee-lined to the bar in the den. Christina barely got a hello in to him as he passed her up. She exchanged a knowing glance and laugh with her Aunt June. “Hey girl, how’s my favorite niece?” Aunt June asked, giving Christina a hug and a peck on the cheek. And Christina knew she truly meant it. Aunt June was Christina’s mother’s oldest sister. Christina’s mother, Beverly, had often compared her child to her own sister June, saying that with the two of them, whatever came up, came out. “I’m doing good, Auntie June,” Christina replied. “Where’s your mom?” she asked, balancing a platter in one hand and holding her clutch purse in the other hand. “In the kitchen waiting for this delicious caramel cake you baked,” Christina said, pointing to the platter in her aunt’s hand. “I think she may need your help, too,” Christina replied. “Okay, honey, you go keep your Uncle Snookie from getting too sauced. I don’t know what I’m going to do about him on Thanksgiving when the entire family comes. You know he don’t much like my family,” June warned. “Alright,” she halfheartedly replied. Aunt June made this speech every holiday. Everyone in the family knew Uncle Snookie was a drunk, and everyone knew he didn’t like the family, except Christina. She had always been his favorite. Christina had her eye on the window watching her Cousin Marla’s car pull up. She got out after her three bad ass kids poured out and then her husband grabbed the baby from the car seat. Just before they reached the door, Christina slipped out, greeting everybody and pulling Marla and her husband Bernard to the side away from the children who were headed in. “Y’all gon’ in, we’ll be there in a minute,” Marla told the kids. “Hey girl,” Marla said pulling her cousin into an embrace. “Hey ‘cuz…whassup?” Christina greeted. “Nothing much, girl, just keeping these bad ass kids in line. Is daddy in there drunk yet?” Marla asked, nodding her head at her parents’ car parked in front of hers. “Girl, you already know,” Christina replied. “Is he coming?” Marla asked, referring to Andrew. “Yeah, but he still hasn’t said if he’s bringing Matthew or not,” Christina said uneasily to her cousin. “I don’t think y’all got too much to worry about, I think y’all making a mountain out of a mole hill. If Aunt Bev does find out or if he says anything, I doubt she’ll make a scene. She might check the hell out of him later for telling her in front of everyone, but she won’t make a scene,” Bernard interjected. “Mmm I don’t know, Bernard…Mama has been known to make a scene in her days. Even though she has chilled out in her older years, especially after Dad passed; I don’t know if she can handle this,” Christina said with a distant look in her eyes, thinking about her dad. “I think y’all should give her more credit than that. I think she knows, I’m telling y’all,” Bernard advised. “If she doesn’t already know, I think the worst thing for her is to find out that everyone else knew and nobody warned her. Now if that shit hits the fan, I hate it for y’all. And please don’t say I didn’t warn ya,” he said with a chuckle. “Boy, pullleeezz, yo’ ass is grass, too, if she finds out you knew,” Christina warned, crossing her arms across her breasts and cocking her head to the side looking at him with attitude. “Yeah, Mr., you ain’t out this shit; don’t start talking about how you told us this or that, ‘cuz Aunt Bev ain’t gonna wanna hear any of it. If you knew, you shoulda told her, that’s how she’ll see it and she don’t give a damn if you was the mailman, you knew and she didn’t; that’s all that matters to her,” Marla said, checking her husband. They went into the house to help get dinner on the table. Chloe and Javier showed up about ten minutes later and introductions were made all around. Christina was really nice and behaved herself until she crossed paths with her sister alone. With a gleam in her eye she looked at Chloe and whispered in her ear, “Yo tequiero, Javier,” and walked away, laughing and switching her hips. They were situating the kids around the little table when her brother came through the front door. “Hey everybody, is it time to eat, ‘cuz I’m hungry,” Andrew announced. “There goes Thanksgiving,” Marla whispered to Christina, implying that after this dinner the family wouldn’t be gathering for their annual Thanksgiving feast this year. Christina shook her head at her cousin as they exchanged knowing glances, but said a quiet prayer in her heart that her brother would behave and her mother would be forgiving. Beverly came from the kitchen taking off her apron to see if there was a special guest her son had brought to dinner. It wouldn’t be a problem, because she always cooked more than enough. Andrew never brought anyone to dinner, but had told his mother he may bring someone this Sunday, but never called back to confirm. She knew that the girl must be special. He always had many women friends, but never appeared ready to settle down with anyone. So this one must be serious if he had brought her…him to dinner, Beverly corrected herself as she came to a halt in the living room. Her handsome son stood five-foot, ten-inches, caramel brown in color. His thick bushy eyebrows and long lashes graced playful eyes with mirth dancing behind them just like his father’s. His long nose and slightly flattened nostrils had come from her side of the family, but that crooked smile with slight dimples was definitely his father’s. But that was where the resemblance ended. Andrew’s build was muscular but he was never a big man like his father had been. He wore his hair cut low and his hairline was beginning to recede. Light hair covered his face in a sprinkling of what could be considered a mustache and beard. His bowed legs the doctor had told her were a result of her carrying him on her hip all those years, but she hadn’t paid it any attention. Beverly loved her son, but she was disappointed to see that once again he had not brought a woman to dinner. She was hoping he would marry and settle down soon and produce some grandkids…one of her children needed to at least. Andrew had brought some boy with him that was extremely good-looking. Oh Lord, she thought, I hope he is not trying to set Christina up with another one of his friends. She reflected on how disastrous the last one had turned out…the poor guy wasn’t even speaking to Andrew anymore. She found herself smiling a little, thinking about that devilish daughter of hers. Christina walked up behind her mother and caught her first glimpse of Matthew, whom her brother had told her a lot about. He just had not stated how good looking he was. Damn, the brother was fine. He looked like a football player type and recent college grad. She sure as hell would love to jump those bones; if anyone could make him straight it had to be her, she thought. Why so many fine ass men gotta be gay, on lockdown, or full of shit? she wondered. Matt was about six-foot, three-inches with very broad shoulders and a chest straining to break through his crème colored, long-sleeve button down shirt with grey flecks. His head was one big muscle looking like he could tear something out the frame. His wide nostrils flared and made her think of an angry bull as they sat high and proud over thick, full, luscious lips. She imagined several things he could do with those lips and they all included her. He had no facial hair adding to his youthful but thuggish looks. Taking off his coat and rolling up his sleeves she glimpsed massive arms with a sprinkling of hair on the arms and backs of his hands. This chocolate cocoa brown brother was fine. His jeans sagged a little, but couldn’t hide his tight, high butt, massive thighs, or that bulge straining at the zipper. She found herself almost drooling, literally…until she remembered he was there for her brother. Damn, she said again. Download Now... 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. This month we're kicking off a new series of Monday Motivational Moment posts. I've collaborated with some excellent writers, to bring you thought-provoking, inspirational posts based on their favorite scriptures. Today's featured writer, is inspirational speaker and writer, Shulonda Newsome-Chaffee. Please welcome her below and read on... My favorite scripture is found in 2 Corinthians 5:17. The scripture says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” I get so much joy when I read this and allow me to tell you why. I was born and raised in the church but like so many of us, I strayed away. I found myself not going to church and doing what I wanted to do when I wanted to do it. One thing about it that though, I never forgot how I was raised and the word of God was rooted in me even in my wrong doing. I remember before I gave my life to Christ thinking that I need to change so I could get saved. You see I knew I was living wrong and in my mind, I needed to give up the things I was doing. I needed to stop committing the sins I was committing. This thought process of what I need to do is the reason a lot of people don’t get saved or why so many stay their mess longer they need to. Satan got us thinking we need to do something before we can give our lives to Christ instead of allowing God to work in our lives. That was my thought process. I couldn’t go to God until I could right according to what I thought was right. Then a funny thing happened. My husband, who was just my man at that time, gave his life Christ. Now he didn’t stop doing anything on his own before he asked Jesus to come into his heart. He only said God if you are real, then I want your Son to come into my heart and save me. My man, who wasn’t a bit of good, changed right before my eyes and become a new creature. The transformation was for lack of a better word, astounding. You would have to have known him before to truly understand what astonished me about the entire process I was witnessing. Here was a man that didn’t treat me as if I was someone he loved, but he mistreated me and he changed right before my eyes. Like I said he didn’t stop doing what he was doing, he just said God if You are who You say You are then I need You to make me new. I watched him all the month of April 1998. I saw him seeking after God. I saw him thirsting after the knowledge of who God is. I saw him becoming a man after God’s own heart and in May 1998, I too surrendered my life to Christ. I wanted the same thing he had and the word of God that was put in me as a child came back to me. I realized there wasn’t anything I needed to do except surrender my all to Jesus. And then it happened it. I become this new creature. With Christ’s help, all the old things passed away. The old Shun was no longer there. People could look and see this new creature, but more importantly I could see her. I could see the person whom Christ always called for me to be. I could see the person that God knew I would be before He even formed me in my mother’s womb. I was and I am a new creature. All the old things are passed away and nothing gives me more joy than that I am new. Nothing gives me more joy, than knowing the things I used to do, I don’t have to do anymore. The person I used to be, I am not her anymore. I am a living testimony of this scripture and that is why it means so much to me. It means I have been a given another chance to get my life right. I have been given another chance to do what God wants me to do and to follow His will for my life. It suggests to me that what I used to be, God does not look at anymore. He sees me as a brand-new person. That’s enough to make me shout right there cause nobody knows better than I do what a wretch undone I truly was. To know that what I used to be is no more and the only thing that counts is what I am right now. We all can find joy in this. We are no longer the same once we accept Christ. We are no longer Hell bound, but we can look forward to spending an eternity in the presence of the true and living God. I am no longer that same sinner I was. I AM A NEW CREATURE IN CHRIST JESUS and for that I say Amen and Lord, I thank you sir. Thanks for joining us for another Motivational Monday Moment. Please drop a comment below, we would love to hear from you. To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner.
Hello! This is one of my tour stops during my week book tour for Jillian, by Julia. A Royston. This virtual book tour is organized by Write Now Literary Book Tours. This tour runs November 6-30, 2017. Follow the tour here. Book your own tour here WNL ISBN-10: 0692528067 ISBN-13: 978-0692528068 ASIN: B016C0HJBO Book Title: Jillian Book 1 of the Women of the Fellowship Series Genre: Romance Fiction About Julia... Julia Royston is an author, publisher, speaker and teacher. Julia provides full-service book publishing services, writing and publishing coaching services as well as hosts workshops and conferences to help aspiring writers become best-selling authors and thriving entrepreneurs. By profession, Julia is a 22-year certified, media specialist/technology instructor with the local public school system. For more information about Julia and her companies visit, www.juliaroyston.net Patricia walked into Jillian’s office closed the door quickly and fell backward against the door. Her eyes were upward and her body language said that she was about to faint and slide to the floor “Okay boss indulge me just a minute.” “What going on? Besides you only call me boss when you could be in trouble or you’re getting ready to hurt somebody.” Jillian inquired “Jillian, I’m about to put a hurting on somebody in a minute, but in a great way,” Patricia said softly. “What’s up?” Jillian exclaimed. “The representatives from Randolph Technologies are waiting to see you in the lobby. I have never seen three brothers look so good since my favorite group, ‘Guy,’ back in the day,” Patricia closed her eyes and did a slight shake and shimmy from her shoulders to her waist. “Okay, Patricia, your minute is up and the key to this company not going down the toilet is on the other side of that door. Girl, get a grip and show them in,” said Jillian with a slight frown. “Okay, are you ready?” Patricia straightened her clothes and mimicked putting her hair back in place. “Yes, I am ready and show them in already,” Jillian then gave Patricia a sharp look while putting the last papers in a folder and coming from behind her desk. Patricia opened the door to the lobby and said to the visitors, “Gentleman, Ms. Forrester will see you now.” Three very handsome gentleman entered Jillian’s office. Patricia continued, “Ms. Forrester, this is Mr. Byron and Myron Randolph, the CEO and President, respectively of Randolph Technologies and their associate, Mr. James Jones.” “Jillian, is that you?” asked Byron as he stopped dead in his tracks at the sight of her face. Byron took a long sweep over Jillian from head to toe. Letting his eyes thoroughly glance over every inch of her body. Jillian was checking Byron out right back and blushing greatly on the inside and out. Jillian was thanking God that her milk chocolate skin could hide how hot her cheeks were getting at Byron’s glance. Jillian remembered that Byron was always the ladies’ man of the two. She knew that she couldn’t take what he said seriously because he could be saying it to about three other women too. His eyes were saying a lot and she was trying to believe the clear non-verbal communication. Byron and Myron were both classified as nerds, but Myron was the real nerd of the two. Besides loving technology, Byron and Myron were unique in that they were identical twins in size and height, but with different color complexion. Both men stood six feet three and weighed about 225 lbs. Byron had dark smooth chocolate skin while Myron had a lighter brown complexion like caramel candy. Studies had been done about the twins when they were younger. Their doctor wrote and published an article in a medical journal about their uniqueness. “Jillian Forrester, look at you?” interrupted Myron who had been standing next to Byron watching them both and waiting his turn. “Oh my goodness, yes, it’s me. Byron and Myron Randolph? Look at you guys. I had no idea. I realize that this is unorthodox and not the way I normally start a business meeting, but can I have a hug?” They all laughed as Jillian embraced each twin, Myron first and then Byron. They smelled like Yves Saint Laurent’s latest cologne and dressed in similar clothing, but not matching tailored suits. The days of the twins wearing matching outfits had been abandoned by the time they reached their middle teens. Byron, being the mischievous one, took both her hands in his once the embrace ended and he slightly swayed them back and forth. He stood there holding and gently rubbing her hands in a slow circular motion that left Jillian quite uncomfortable. Byron knew he was wrong, but didn’t want to let her hands go. He kept looking into her eyes to gage her reaction and to soak her all in. Byron thought, ‘Oh my goodness this is Jillian Forrester standing right in front of me.’ Byron tried not to reveal with his eyes all of the rush of emotions that were going on in his head not to mention the fast beat of his heart at the sight of her. He thought, ‘If she only knew how good it is to really see her. Get a grip and calm down boy.’ A look of confusion came on Jillian’s face at how Byron was looking at her. She never dated or even had any thought that Byron even liked her other than a friend when they were younger. What is this? Jillian looked down at the floor quickly realizing that this was suddenly a very awkward and misunderstood moment. They both forgot they were in a corporate office and that there were other people in the room. Jillian had so many questions running through her brain. Byron, on the other hand, was continuing to take her all in. Jillian knew that she must somehow stop this scene from getting any worse or misreading the whole situation. She came back to herself from her thoughts in time to remember she was ignoring the third man in the room. She removed her hands from Byron’s grasp and turned her attention to the other gentleman. “I am so sorry your name is James right? I don’t know you that well or I would hug you too.” Everyone laughed as she shook his hand. James was much taller standing about six foot five and two hundred sixty five pounds. He looked like he could be a defensive end or tackle for the Cincinnati Bengals or some celebrity’s body guard. This very large, gorgeous gentleman was standing there with an iPad, leather portfolio and iPhone. At five foot three, Jillian felt like a midget compared to these three men. Jillian enjoyed the sudden attention and affection, but knew they must get down to business. “Well, shall we all have a seat?” Each man took a seat around Jillian’s small conference table and Byron placed himself to her left, Myron was on her right and James was seated next to Myron. Connect Socially... About Jillian... Jillian watched so many of her friends date, get engaged and marry before her. She wondered what was taking so long. Jillian had done all of the right things. She had gone to school, built a thriving company, owned a home, drove a luxury car and dedicated years of service to her church and community. But, where was her love? Come experience the lessons, longing and love of Jillian Forrester. Have faith, your love is on the way too. Excerpt... Website: http://www.juliaroyston.net Twitter: https://twitter.com/juliaakroyston Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juliaaroyston Barnes & Noble: https://tinyurl.com/ybk7pnpw Amazon Kindle: http://a.co/g25CVcY Amazon Paperback: http://a.co/cnd0R2q Tour hosted by WLN Book Tours Thanks for joining me for another Fab Friday Feature! 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. So, Wednesday in trending news it was reported that Blake Shelton was crowned "2017's Most Sexiest Man Alive" by People Magazine on Tuesday. Now, I get that People obviously has more clout and followers than I do, and I get that they're one of the nation's top magazines, and I get that nobody really cares about my opinion...but Blake Shelton? Really? Everyone is entitled to their opinion of what's sexy and what's not. Don't get me wrong, I'm not hating on Blake Shelton, but I cannot help but wonder who creates the list behind the scenes, who's voting, and who gets the final say. Blake is a cutie pie, but I don't see sexy in him. When I see Blake, I think of the next door neighbor's husband, or your best friend's husband. He's got beautiful blue eyes. The cutest dimples when he smiles that gorgeous smile. But, er, uh...that's about where it ends for me. I know some of you may disagree with me, but here's what I want to know. When you think of sexy, what does that mean for you? What triggers have to be hit before you say he's sexy? Really, I wanna know. Leave your comments and feel free to upload pics. So, for me it's not just his face, it's his:
So, here are a few of the character images I have chosen for previous character portrayals in my novels, and those that I would vote as being "Sexy." Now, when it comes to sexiest man alive, I think it's difficult to narrow that down to just one man. Just saying! Mr. Mysterious Guy who I still haven't found out his name... Jack Greystone...love the hair & eyes! Donnell Blaylock...need I say more? And again! This one richea! Mr. eyes and lips! Adam Cowie...he's got that look on lock! The tats & beard are everything! And this guy... So, again...not hating on Blake, but I'd like the opportunity to vote, too. Drop your pics and comments below. You know I can't wait to read what you have to say! It is a democracy around here. 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 lively discussion! 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. Dating can be a difficult road for singles. The woman is dating in hopes it will lead to marriage, and the man might be dating in hopes it will lead to his or her bed. Although, that's not always the case, it does make it difficult when two people who are attracted come together, with different goals in mind. That's where Olivia finds herself when she meets up with her old friend and secret love, Raymond Ellsworth, in BeJeweled: The Flight of an Angel. Take a peek at today's #writerwednesday. "I think people need to stop getting married unless they’re in it for the long haul. Sometimes I have regrets about the way my situation went. I should’ve thought long and hard before jumping into a marriage. I don’t think I’ll be doing that one again.” "Why not? You plan on being single the rest of your life?” Olivia asked, feeling her stomach tighten in knots. She was dreading and anticipating his answer at the same time. “If that’s what it takes,” Raymond replied in a somber tone. “Takes for what?” Olivia was becoming exasperated as she realized getting an answer from him was like pulling teeth. “To keep my heart protected. I don’t want to screw up anyone else’s life the way Bethany and I screwed up ours and our children’s lives. Had she been honest from the beginning none of this would have ever happened,” Raymond stated, taking another sip from his wine glass. “Yes, but your children wouldn’t be here either,” Olivia observed. “You’re right about that, but I hate the way we’re screwing their lives up, too. I mean we spent over a decade arguing about nothing and that’s only if we weren’t ignoring each other. It’s all futile. I mean, two mature adults can have a relationship without the paperwork. If you love each other and are committed to supporting one another be the best you can be, you don’t need nothing else. On the other hand, if you’re wanting to engage in sexual relations with numerous people, that’s fine, too. I mean, who am I to judge you? I say to each his own, but at least have the decency to notify the people you’re involved with that’s what you want and that’s what you’re doing. That gives them the option to do the same, or get the hell out of dodge. I can’t stand when people take away other people’s choices.” Olivia watched as Raymond had his glass of wine refilled and almost downed that one, too. She had not seen this side of Ray and she didn’t know if it was the wine speaking, his pain, or a combination of both, but he was being very cynical. “Ray, you know what it sounds like to me?” Olivia ventured to share her opinion. “What’s that, Ivy?” “It sounds like you’re bitter over your divorce and you need to heal.” Raymond shook his head and laughed before replying, “Is that what you think?” “Yes, that’s what I think.” Olivia sat her elbows on the table, clasped her hands and pressed her chin on top waiting for his response. “Yeah, and you’re entitled to your opinion, too. Come on, let’s go dance,” he said, standing up and reaching for her hand. “I don’t want to dance right now. Let’s finish this conversation.” Olivia sensed she was treading on dangerous territory, but she wanted and needed to explore where he was emotionally with his ex-wife. “Alright, you sit this one out, I’ll be back.” To Olivia’s surprise, Raymond walked up to Kianna, said a couple of words, and led her out onto the dance floor. Smiling and giggling, she followed him all the way. Download, Bejeweled: The Flight of an Angel 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. Yesterday, I received an inspirational message at church that really had me thinking deeply about circumstances I'm currently in and situations I've gone through. Sometimes, it becomes difficult to remain positive and speak words of affirmation in the face of adversity. However, Bishop Dr. Richard Leaphart, pointed out we must change our mindset if we expect to receive a turnaround. We have to have an attitude of winning, ready to do the work, and understand that the work will never end. Those pointers that he gave to us while basic in comprehension, can be impactful if implemented and adhered to. Speak life into your situations. Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." Simply said, whatever you speak is what you will receive. So, what you put out there will be what you get back. Learn to speak positive even in the most dire situations, and train your mind to think that way. So what if you think you've always spoken positive, but you're not getting it back. Perhaps, you need to speak AND believe, or speak, believe, AND put the work in. When you find yourself facing a trial or a difficult situation, rather than becoming down or hopeless not understanding how you're going to make it through, think about how you can change your thought process or attitude towards the situation. Ask yourself what can you do differently to get the best out the situation. After you have given all you can, and you have prayed, then start changing how you think about the situation. Believe it will work out. Speak that it will work out. Receive that it will work out. Then step back and watch it work out. Video Inspiration... 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. The challenges life brings will call into question our strength. When adversity rises, it helps to have someone in your corner who loves and believes in you. Pavielle Herrera is facing breast cancer, but instead of looking to those she loves, she's erecting a barrier. How will this news impact her world? It's a #writerwednesday and we're jumping into the thick of things, to determine Is The Grass Really Greener? 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. Today's Fab Friday features me! Yes, I'm answering readers' questions to let you know a little more about me, and give you a peep into the heart and soul of Chelle Ramsey. So, let's get to digging... READER: What gives you the inspiration to come up with your stories? CHELLE: Sometimes, it comes to me in a dream that happens during the night. I will jump up and write those dreams down, and then flesh it out into a full-fledged story. Other times, it may be my imagination thinking of someone's personality versus a created situation, and how that person works through it with a different resolve. Most of them are real life situations many people face with fictional characters, that I use to encourage others. READER: Is writing your gift/talent, or a hobby? CHELLE: Writing is definitely a gift. I recognize that I would not be able to do this without the anointing of the Lord. Some people believe you can be taught to write, and perhaps you can, but if it's something that comes naturally and you're not challenged in that area, then it is a gift. It is also a hobby as it relates to a method I use to relax and have some down-time. However, I am definitely working towards making this my full-time career. READER: Is the Paige character based on someone you know, your imagination, or something from a news item? CHELLE: Paige is not based on anyone that I know. She is a complex combination of my views on life, and her personality and character traits are derived from women in general. From myself, to women that I have known throughout my life, or women I have seen. I have taken a major theme that I am familiar with and combined it with diverse personality traits and a different resolve to explore how someone might handle this situation. That's the beauty of fiction writing. READER: What are you working on right now? CHELLE: Honestly, I have so many WIPS that are being touched in some function or other right now. Two major things that I have going on are a romance novel that is super clean (totally new for me) and a second book in this other series that I've been working on. It's romance, too, but it definitely has the drama you have come to expect from me. READER: How long does it take you to write a book on average? CHELLE: It varies. If the characters are speaking to me and I have the time and focus to sit and craft a piece, I can do it in one month. I have often cranked out ghostwriting fictional romance every 2 weeks with a 40k+ word count. My novels can take up to one year, if I don't have the time and focus to sit down and write. There are a few that have taken a few years, because sometimes the characters walk away and take a break and my muse goes gallivanting off into the woods. READER: Which came first: writing or salvation? CHELLE: Writing. I started writing at the age of 12, when I did not have the Lord in my life. I was not raised in the church, and went occasionally with my grandmother whenever I visited her house. I began writing as a way to find healing and entertainment. It is a part of who I am, but what I did not recognize at the time was that it came as a gift from Almighty God. Thanks for joining me for my Fab Friday feature. If there are any questions that you would have liked to see answered, that were not posted, drop them in the comments section below and I will reply. Or, you can email me your questions for a follow-up post. 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.
It's relationship Thursday and I want to talk marriages this week. We fall in love with that special someone and we plan our special day to dedicate our lives to them forever. Several months or years later, you can't stand his shadow, let alone his funky drawers! (Record scratch...) Read on... Let's Work... Anyone who has ever been married knows it takes some serious work. By work, I mean work on you...It's not always roses and romance, and you're not going to always like him. But guess what? He's not always going to like you either. There will be times when the two of you cannot agree on a single thing. You feel as if you're always going through a gamut of emotions when you're dealing with one another, or the relationship has become combative. I believe these are times for growth opportunities in the marriage. Apparently you or him, or both are changing in some way. Do you believe that change can be productive or counterproductive in a marriage? Is it necessary to change? Compromise... Use this as a time to promote positive communication. Find out what's going on in your spouse's heart and mind. What has him taking the stance he's taking, and why are you taking the stance you're taking. Then take a moment to consider how it might impact you or the marriage if you were to compromise in this area. Trust me, there will be times when you might feel you're compromising more than you should. You feel like it isn't fair. In the overall scheme of things, will the compromise really break you...or will it bring peace to your marriage? Get out of your emotions, and keep it real. Who does the most compromising in your marriage or relationship? Protect & Nurture... I think one of the most important lessons to learn is protect and nurture your relationship. Protect your marriage from external forces (anything other than you and him), and nurture your marriage. One of the worst mistakes that I have seen people make is sharing their marital issues with family and friends. Do not go putting your husband on blast to your family. First, you're giving them fodder for gossip, if they're the gossiping type (mine is). Second, if he does or says something that upsets them, they will continue to hold that against your spouse, long after you have forgiven them. You're upset now, but you will get over it eventually. Work through your problems with your husband, and if you need some cooling down time...take it! If you need to talk to anyone, talk to him after you calm down, and pray if you need to get it out before dealing with your husband. Nurturing your relationship comes along with protection, but it also comes along with speaking words of encouragement to your spouse. It shows itself in speaking life into your marriage when you face turbulent times, and even in the good times. Don't allow your mind to linger on the negative aspects, but learn and grow from them. Focus on those areas that are weak and strive to build them up. My husband is really good at this, I still struggle. (Keeping it real!). He takes time to discuss those areas to see where "we" went wrong. More often than not, the "we" is me, but he takes it on, as well. He refuses to allow me to carry the baggage on my own. Then he maps out a plan for how we grow from here, but what I will say is, if you don't address how you got to a specific stage in the first place, it's impossible to grow from there. What do you think about seeking marital advice from a best friend or family member? Are there times they can be trusted? Most Admired Celeb Couple... I tweeted that the celeb couple that I most admire would be Angela Bassett and Courtney B. Vance, and asked my followers to name their most admired celeb couple. The ironic thing about this was I posed that same question to my husband, and they were the same couple he chose. We had never discussed this. We both chose them, because they are the depiction of protect and nurture. In their 20 years of marriage, we have never seen negative posts about them. We have never heard an argument or anything derogatory. In the heart of Hollywood, where drama and scandal abounds you don't see them splashed across social media or the tabloids. This isn't to say that they don't have issues, but they definitely keep it in house. They are both amazing actors in their own right, and they shine without taking up one another's spotlight. From what we can tell, they build each other strong, and when they discuss one another it's with the highest level of respect, love, and admiration. They recently celebrated 20 years of marriage in October. Way to go! Who's your most admired celeb couple and why? Thanks for joining me! 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. 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 Happy November, readers! It's a #wonderfulwednesday and what an awesome way to kick off the month of November than by sharing a book. A Woman's Design: Redemption is wrapping up at the editor's, and we're working towards the release. This book is just as dramatic, as book one with a little more romance, a little more heat, and a whole lot of forgiveness. About AWD_R Ambiance – After discovering her husband’s illegitimate child resulting from a lengthy affair, Ambiance’s world was torn in two. His untimely passing leaves her feeling she has been robbed of the chance to deal with the betrayal. Seeking to give herself a fresh start, she packs up and moves cross country to the West Coast. Finally pursuing her dreams as a business owner in the fashion world, she’s on top of the world, until the man who caused her to question her marriage comes knocking. Will he mend her broken heart, or uproot her new life and leave it in further disrepair? Naomi – Dealing with empty nest syndrome, she discovers everything everyone ever said about her is true. She has no life. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery and entering the dating world after years of being alone, she’s unprepared for the games that lie in wait. Juggling her feelings between two very attractive men, she will soon learn that one is playing a very deceptive and dangerous game. Paige- Barely escaping a deadly snare created by her own devices, she is searching for healing and redemption. After two years of therapy, Paige is finally ready to face her demons. It won’t be as easy as it seems, when accusations are constantly launched at her, and people from her past continue to pop up. A former lover is not ready to let go, and she soon finds herself making similar choices from her past. Will she open her heart up to love and be loved, and will she be convinced to open her life to Christ? Three best friends search for healing and deliverance from their emotional wounds in the arms of men, and the arms of a Savior, as they yearn for redemption of their sins. Excerpt... “Hey,” I greeted opening my front door wide to allow Vic to enter. He stood on the threshold a bit uncertain as he eyed me up and down. He looked relieved, almost as if he did not know what to expect. “Hi,” he said, stepping in as I held the door open for him. “You’re looking good.” It had been two years since we had laid eyes on one another. After the original incident with David, Vic hung around until I was released from the hospital into my mother’s care. He called a few times to check up on me, but that ended a month after the episode. “So, do you. Would you like something to drink?” I asked, going to the kitchen grabbing a couple of wine glasses. “Sure. You have a nice place,” he called out. “Thanks!” I was grabbing a bottle of VinRoc 2012 Chardonnay. My hands shook, and I had to steady myself to prevent from dropping and breaking both the bottle and the glasses. I had not been around this man in such a long time, and the mere act of being in his presence was unnerving. “How long have you been living here?” he asked, as I padded back into the living room in my bare feet. Setting both glasses on the table, I opened the bottle of wine before turning and answering his question. I was having difficulty performing menial multi-tasks in his presence. “About six months now.” “Did you go back to your house at all? After the hospital I mean,” he clarified. “No. My mom, Naomi and Sasha went back and packed everything for me after I hired a cleaning crew. I couldn’t.” I shook my head, as if I could clear away the horrible memories. “So, where’d you go?” Long tapered fingers wrapped around the glass I handed him. “With my mom. I stayed there for the first six months. Then I leased an apartment for a year when I was ready, while I looked for another place to purchase. Naomi handled the sale of the old condo for me.” I took a small sip from my glass. “She’s a great friend.” “That she is. She was there for me through it all. I appreciate her.” I thought about Ambiance who had not spoken to me in some time. “I’m sorry.” Vic set his glass on the table, looking over at me. “For what?” “Not being there for you.” “Vic, you have nothing to be sorry for.” I set my glass next to his. “You did nothing wrong.” I folded my hands in my lap and looked at them before gathering the courage to look at his face. “I owe you an apology, Vic. I never should have hurt you the way that I did. I know I played with your feelings and that was never my intent.” “Did you feel as if I wasn’t enough man for you, Paige? Did I not satisfy you? I tried to give you the world, but you wouldn’t open up and let me.” His eyes searched mine as if he could find the answers to his questions there. I turned and looked away. I didn’t know if I wanted him to see what was there. The shame, the guilt, the pain of my actions and their impact on all those who loved me. “It wasn’t that, Vic. I had issues of my own that had never been properly dealt with. I tried to eliminate the pain of my past by not caring about anyone. I figured if I pushed everyone far enough away from my heart, I would never get hurt.” “I always told you whatever it was you were dealing with; I would be there for you. I wanted to help you. I knew you were carrying baggage that was too heavy for your shoulders. But you have this independent woman thing down to a science. I always figured there was a part of you I didn’t know. A part you didn’t want me to know,” Vic observed. “I was ashamed, Vic. Who goes around telling the world they’re a sex addict and a whore.” “Hey, don’t say that.” He reached out and lightly touched my arm. “It’s the truth. Do you know what one of my lowest points was? The point I knew that I had to change?” I asked looking into his eyes, but recalling a time long ago. “The day you walked in and found that lunatic naked in your bedroom?” he asked, lifting an eyebrow. There was a hint of a smile in his eyes, but it was too difficult for me to laugh about the situation. Although David was dead and gone, the situation still frightened me. I had nightmares about it at any given time I closed my eyes. Sleep or awoke. “No. The day that I knew I had to change was when I woke up from a one-night stand one morning and he wanted me out of his house. He treated me like I was some prostitute, barely acknowledging my presence. He acted as if I weren’t good enough to use his washcloths and towels to take a shower. Just the night before he’d been down for whatever. And the worst part was he tossed money my way to pay me for my services.” Download Book 1... 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.
It's another Fab Friday today, featuring author, Darliss Batchelor. She's giving us a glimpse into her novel, The Make-Believe Wives! It promises to be exciting and intriguing. Don't forget to drop her a line. Read on... About Make Believe Wives... Janay and Evan Ingram have it all, a beautiful home, a loving marriage and three wonderful daughters. However, Janay feels she’s missing something from this perfect picture and needs a period of time away from her family to regain her perspective. She soon disappears and Evan wonders if/believes she’s run away from home. Faith Richards, the children’s babysitter, steps in as a helping hand and finds herself in an unexpected love triangle with her employer, Evan and his missing wife, Janay. When Janay returns, she finds another woman in her place. Evan has a choice to make. Who is his real wife and who is the make-believe wife? Excerpt... Janay slammed the glass into the bottom of the sink and watched it break into a million pieces. She chased it with two plates and a bowl that were within reach. No need to worry about washing those. Frightened by the noise, her baby girl screamed and she joined her. Unlike Naomi, Janay’s scream was from sheer frustration. She pulled herself together and went to gather her daughter from the adjoining family room. Naomi raised her arms as her mother approached and Janay picked her up. Once comforted, the toddler wiggled to get back to her playtime. Janay returned her to the center of the toys she had spread out over the family room floor and exhaled. Her husband, Evan, had taken Nahla and Nia out for a daddy-daughter day. Naomi was too young for today’s activity. Janay returned to the kitchen and stared at the glass and ceramic gumbo in the sink. She picked up a few of the larger pieces of glass and sat them on the granite countertop, mentally adding resealing it to her already overloaded to-do list. She remembered literally vibrating with excitement when they bought this stone. Now, it brought tears. Janay went to the bathroom to wash her face, hoping it would make her feel better. She pulled the plush fire engine red face towel from the bar and ran cold water over it. Looking in the mirror, she noticed the frustration etched in her face and the tent city that had formed below her eyes. These had become her constant companions. She patted the area with the cold towel and went back to the family room to check on Naomi. Her routine had gotten old. *** Janay watched as Evan moved bowls and plates around in the cabinet, undoubtedly looking for something in particular. Next, he searched the dishwasher. “Hmph,” Evan said as he closed the door, looking at her with both hands on his waist, which usually meant he was stumped about something. “Babe, do you know what happened to that blue bowl? I can’t find it.” “Which one?” Janay asked trying to figure out the best way to tell him about his favorite cereal bowl’s fate. “We only had one. It was deep blue.” “It got broken. Accidentally. The other day,” she replied. Evan stepped down into the room and sat next to his wife on the beige leather sofa. “Is everything okay?” “Yes. Why?” “A lot of dishes are getting broken lately. I wonder why.” He looked at her so intently it was clear he already knew the answer. “You think so?” She tilted her head to the side. “I keep finding broken dishes in the garbage. What’s going on?” Evan reached for her hand. “I drop a dish or two from time to time. The ceramic floor is unforgiving.” She shrugged, “No big deal.” “If it was more than that you would tell me, right?” “Yes, you would be the first to know.” Purchase Your Copy... Print: Author Website Print: http://bit.ly/2syQE5p Ebook: Kindle: http://amzn.to/2uvChi2 Nook: http://bit.ly/2u1MUqP About Darliss... It was on a white sand beach in Cozumel, Mexico that Darliss received the call to write her first book. Secrets was born ten years later and she hasn’t stopped. Her books Hell is a Skyscraper: A Trio of Novelettes and Something Else to Want followed. Her newest book, The Make-Believe Wives, joined her book family in June 2017. Walking in the footsteps of her Christian playwright grandmother, Darliss was also commissioned to write and witnessed the performance of her short play, One Simple Yes. A passionate writer, Darliss desires to write stories of fiction that have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of her readers. She continues to work toward the commission to write entertaining inspirational and women’s fiction for years to come. When she is not writing, she can be found spending time with her husband of over thirty years, Greg, her son, Brandon and grandson, Bentley. She also enjoys reading, cruising, Detroit Pistons basketball and watching court shows on television. You can find more information about Darliss at her website at www.DarlissBatchelor.com and on social media at www.FaceBook.com/booksbyDarliss. Website: www.DarlissBatchelor.com FaceBook: www.FaceBook.com/BooksbyDarliss Goodreads: www.Goodreads.com/DarlissBatchelor Thanks for joining me for another Fab Friday Feature! Please leave a comment below. Darliss would love to hear from you!
To join this blog simply click "Follow This Blog," "Subscribe," or "Email" links in the upper right corner. Have you ever had that moment where you know you're looking pretty good, and you feel confident in your skin? Then she walks in...you know the one...your guy's ex, and she's everything that you're not. That's what Ambiance is dealing with on today's #writerwednesday post. Get a glimpse of book 2, A Woman's Design: Redemption. I had taken a midday break to visit Denver at his shoot. I parked on the pier deck, and hopped out of my car. Inhaling the ocean breeze, I took a moment to marvel at the beauty of my surroundings. This was something that I couldn’t find back home in Atlanta. Every time I felt a wee bit homesick, I walked outside of my apartment and down to the beach. This was a priceless feeling. I knew that Denver’s photo shoot was down on the beach. For all his faults I could not deny his professionalism or his talent. Denver had a great eye for art and he created it through the lens of his camera. Some of his favorite spots were the pier, Third Street Promenade, the boardwalk at Venice, and of course the canals. His work had quite often hit the pages of Muscle and Body, LA, Los Angeles Magazine, and Entertainment Today just to name a few. I finally spotted his crew and models some ways down from the Ferris wheel. The breeze coming off the ocean felt good against my skin, despite the midday sun shining furiously in the sky above. I watched the girls playing around in their skimpy bikinis, tossing a beach ball back and forth, while Denver captured each shot. Tourists walking along the beach couldn’t get enough of the women playing and laughing in their barely-there-bikinis. More than a few women were tugging the arms of their men to regain their attention. Denver was shooting Lynn, Kelsey, Rhonda and Felice today. I had to admit they were beautiful women with gorgeous bodies. They could make even the sexiest woman feel inferior, especially that Felice. I glanced down at my white long-sleeved top and my cropped lime-green swim shorts and began questioning my choice of attire. Shaking it off, I didn’t care if my thick brown thighs weren’t muscular and toned like her small, shapely ones. Denver was no longer with Felice. I was his woman now and that was all that mattered. Or should have mattered, but lately I was questioning every part of our relationship. I found a place to sit and pulled my towel out of my bag. Unfolding it, I laid it down and plopped down on it to wait. Pulling my sunglasses from the top of my head, I removed my phone from my pocket and pulled up my Kindle app to catch up on some reading, while waiting. No more than fifteen minutes had passed, before I heard laughter and voices growing louder. Looking up I saw everyone walking in my general direction. Denver was at the back of the crowd, following slowly behind. He still had not spotted me just yet. It appeared he and Felice were engaged in an argument. The roar of the ocean and all the other voices around us blocked out the sound of their voices. Yet, their body language depicted they were having a lover’s quarrel. A feeling of unease came over me and settled in the pit of my stomach. They came to a standstill as the rest of the crew continued and passed by me. I was sitting about twenty feet away from the water’s edge. They were so immersed in their horseplay none of the crew recognized me. I was grateful at the moment, because my intent was to determine what was going on with Denver and Felice. I did not want my attention distracted and caught up in conversation with the rest of the crew members who knew me. Denver appeared to be angry and Felice was rubbing his arm up and down to calm him. A slight flicker of jealousy coursed through my veins, watching her touch him so intimately. Worse still was how he responded to her touch. All the fire went out of him as I watched his shoulders sag, the nodding of his head and the slight, crooked smile that took over his features. She took both of his hands in hers and continued to talk, while he nodded his head up and down intently listening to her words. I wanted to move closer in the hopes that I could hear what they were saying, but I also realized that despite the crowd on the beach that day, their attention would be drawn to me. I chose instead to sit still and pay attention. Felice begin to smile and instantly threw her arms around his neck and kissed him on the cheek. My heart rate sped up, as I sat up a little straighter. Familiar feelings of betrayal rushed through me as I found myself thrust back into the heat of my relationship with my deceased husband. All the treachery I had experienced with each of his infidelities took hold of me. I thought back to how everyone in his family knew about his affair with Kendra and their child except me. It had taken a few years to admit to myself I knew all along about his relationship with her. I just had not wanted to accept what was my reality. I had lived a lie for several years. In that moment I wondered if I was still that same woman. Would I continue to live a lie just to have a man? Would I continue to live a lie for convenience sake? Felice’s hands moved from around his neck to rest on both sides of his face. She continued to stare at him, as did I; wondering what he would do next. In that moment he looked up and spotted me. A Woman's Design: Redemption Coming Soon... Download book 1, A Woman's Design: Afflictions now, if you have not read it. Click the image below. 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. Have you ever come to that place that you know what you want to do, and you know how you want to do it, but for some reason things appear to be coming to a standstill? Well, that's where I'm at right now. I came to a fork in the road in my life, and I began praying over the direction that I needed to take. Without receiving clarity, but knowing that I had to take steps, I began to pursue both routes. I had a plan for route A and one for route B. I was extremely excited as I mapped out the path for each. However, both of those areas appear to just be in stasis. See, I'm that person that has difficulty staying still and waiting. Do you usually map out a plan for your path and purpose, or do you go with your intuition and let the moment guide you? Are you always that way? As I ask the Lord for further clarification, the only message that I keep receiving is "Keep moving." I don't know if that means to pursue one route, or the other, so I continue to pursue both. At times, I'm receiving confirmation on one particular route, or the other. Great things will occur, but then everything just stops. Then I begin to question is that actual confirmation or is that my heart speaking out loud about it's desire. Have you been at a place where you weren't certain if it was your heart, or the Lord speaking? I search the Bible to gain clarity, and Proverbs 21:5 tells me, "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." So, then I'm really confused. On the one hand, I'm planning, so I must be doing great. But then again, on the other hand, I ask myself, "Am I being hasty? Do I need to slow down a bit?" See, I'm kind of hard-headed and I quite often have to ask Him for confirmation, because He knows that I have difficulty following and understanding clear direction. So, I guess I'll just be like Gideon, who kept asking the Lord for confirmation, until I receive it. I figure if I continue to pursue both routes until I receive clarity, that it will all work out, because His plans will prevail in the end, according to Proverbs 19:21. "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." Even if neither of those routes work out, I know that He will take care of me in the end. I continue to go back to Jeremiah 29:11, whenever I began to worry too much, because it brings me peace. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." How do you handle internal conflict? Have you ever been at a place where you were completely torn about what to do? Were you paralyzed by fear, or did you forge full steam ahead with confidence, knowing that it would all work out in the end? Let me know. I need a word from the wise. In my novel, BeJeweled: A Beautiful Blend, (Book 3 of The House of BeJeweled), Wes faces internal conflict, as well. His heart has been torn on the direction he should take regarding his relationship, but this isn't the first time he's been there. He previously was conflicted about the relationship he had with his father and step-mother, and uncertain what route he should go in terms of his future. Once his decision was made, he never had regrets. However, this time is completely different. Wes knew that whatever path he chose, someone would be hurt, but he had to make a decision and stand beside that decision. Everyone would not necessarily understand or support his decision, but it was his to make. Nikki is another character who faces internal conflict. She's not certain whether she should continue to uphold the vows of a marriage that has turned abusive, praying for healing and deliverance, or if she needs to break the chains that bind her and her husband. 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. Barely escaping a deadly snare created by her own devices, Paige is searching for healing and redemption. After two years of therapy, she is finally ready to face her demons. It won’t be as easy as it seems, when accusations are constantly launched at her, and people from her past continue to pop up. A lover from the past is not ready to let go, and she soon finds herself making similar choices from her past. Will she open her heart up to love and be loved, and will she be convinced to open her life to Christ? It's a #writerwednesday and I'm sharing the next book in A Woman's Design duology with you. It's A Woman's Design: Redemption. I pulled into the driveway of my mother’s house and sat for a moment. I needed to have a talk with her and I wasn’t sure I was emotionally strong enough to pull it off. For so long, I had used sex as an outlet of my pain. My lackadaisical attitude towards life had almost cost me mine. Of course, my mother had raked me over the coals for my choices, and she had every right. My sex-capades had run me into a nightmare situation with a psychopath, two years prior. David had been one of my lovers until he turned into a stalker. His decision to hold me hostage for several days led to a swat standoff, in which he finally released me. Convinced he was ready to surrender, I walked out of my condo with my hands in the air. As my foot stepped over the threshold I heard the pop of my handgun going off and immediately threw myself onto the floor. My initial thought was that I had been shot until SWAT officers rushed into my condo. Looking back, I could see straight to my bedroom. David’s body was slumped on the ground, where he had blown his brains out. I still cannot think back on that day and tears not come to my eyes. I suffered nightmares for a long time afterwards. While his actions were that of an insane person, I never expected him to commit suicide. Pulling myself back to the present before I could drown in my emotions, I stepped out of the car and walked to my mother’s house, letting myself in. “Paige, is that you, baby?” my mom called from the back. “It’s me, Mommy.” I don’t know why she always asked that when I visited. No one else had the key to her house except for me. “Are you ready?” I was cooking dinner for her. Taking her to dinner or cooking for her at my place had become a weekly event between me and her. I hoped that maybe we could discuss some controversial topics with a positive outcome. “Yeah. Let me grab my purse.” I heard her voice coming from the rear. I knew she was going to hit the roof when my father arrived. They pretended they could not stand one another, but the truth was they were as intertwined with one another as a pretzel, despite the distance between them. I seldom spoke to him, but I always tried to keep in touch for my own peace of mind. I had been distant towards my father as an adult. I had difficulty dealing with the abuse heaped on my mother and me by him. I knew he would be full of excuses, but I didn’t care. As the two of them got older it was time for me to deal with some of the issues they had heaped upon me, so I could forgive them and heal. This meeting was not to make them feel guilty, but to face the truth. My mom chatted the entire ride not realizing I had not spoken a single word. She kept her red cup close by her. She thought I didn’t know what she had in that cup. We’d be okay as long as she didn’t spill it in my car. I glanced at her after I pulled into my garage. I had sold my condo after David committed suicide there. Even if he had not taken his life, after my abduction and torture, I had no plans to stay there anymore with its horrid memories. I put it up for sale and found a cute little townhouse in a gated community. Safety? That was a relative word. It would probably be years before I would arrive at that state of mind again. Mom was still chattering away about something she had seen on a gossip show. “Mommy, be careful that you don’t spill the contents of your cup when you get out of the car,” I warned. “Child, you think I don’t know how to handle my business? You act like I ain’t used to going out or something. You tell me that every week when we go to dinner, whether it’s at your house, or a restaurant. I’m not your child, you’re mine,” she chastised me. “And every week, you grab that cup carelessly with the same hand you’re grabbing the door handle with. I think you’d have spilled something by now, if I didn’t say anything,” I reminded her. “Hmmpph. You think you know me,” she said, rolling her eyes, and setting the cup on the floorboard, while opening the door. After she got out of the car, she bent back in to grab her cup with one hand and her purse with the other. While she unlocked the door to my townhome, I stayed behind a moment texting my father to see how far out he was. We made small talk as I prepared the dinner. She was catching me up on the latest gossip about her neighbors and my cousins by the time my father showed up. My heart beat faster as I went to answer the door. “Mom, go ahead and set the table for me, please,” I called over my shoulder as I left the kitchen heading into the living room. Download Book 1... 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. Change in our lives is inevitable. If you live long enough you will experience a multitude of changes that have the opportunity to shape your character, define your outlook, and strengthen your faith. It's how you handle the change that will make you the person you're destined to be. Have you undergone any major changes or transformations in your life recently? What are some of the ways that you have handled major change in your life? Recently, I have undergone another major life transformation. Did it shake me? A little. Did it create fear in me? Somewhat. Yet, I know that it is a chance to build upon my faith, and encourage those around me by demonstrating my faith. As a result, I have began to identify options for growth in other areas, and I'm currently exploring and working towards expanding my reach in those areas. I have prayed, studied the Word of God, and sought confirmation to my prayers and answers that I have believed I have received. One of those confirmations came this weekend, as I participated in a book signing for Indie Author Day. I made some great new contacts, received professional tips, and encouragement. I'm extremely excited and while I'm not ready to reveal just what that is yet, I invite you to stay on this journey with me, as I explore it further. Did you find yourself facing fear when you've undergone changes? How did you handle it? When change comes, do you embrace it, or do you find a way to preserve the current state of things? Although the change in my life can have the potential to be extremely impactful, I did not attempt to preserve the current state of things. I actually had no desire to do so, and I have found myself welcoming the change. It's giving me the opportunity to learn a lot about my character, my desires and dreams, and exploring the depths of my faith. I want you to come along with me on my new journey, as I reveal new ideas, goals, and open doors. In the interim, I ask that you continue to pray for me, as I pray for you. My future is bright! My future is brilliant! And I cannot wait to share this journey with you... 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 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. This is one of my stops during the two month tour for The Little Girl Inside: Owning My Role in My Own Pain by Tonya Barbee. This virtual book tour is organized by Write Now Literary Book Tours. This tour runs October & November. Follow the tour here. Book your own tour here WNL Book Title: The Little Girl Inside: Owning My Role in My Own Pain ASIN: B00VJFVN5Q ISBN-10: 0692564802 ISBN-13: 978-0692564806 Genre: Non-Fiction Tonya Barbee About Tonya... TONYA BARBEE is a novelist and aspiring playwright. Her most recent published work is titled, The Little Girl Inside Owning My Role in My Own Pain. She is currently working on another project that complements this book. Tonya grew up in Durham, NC, a family of four daughters and one son. Her father, Woodrow served his country for twenty years as an Army officer, retired then taught ROTC for another twenty years and her mother, Doris, a college administrator. She is a proud 1980 graduate of Frank W. Ballou High School in Washington, DC. She worked in operations and management for Department of Agriculture for twenty years. For the past ten years, she’s worked as a project manager for Department of Defense in Washington, DC. She studied at National-Louis University where she earned her Masters in Business Administration in 2009. Although she’s worked her way up the ladder in the federal government, she had no idea she would end up writing professionally however she has always enjoyed sharing her personal life through story telling with those she thought she could help. Then something clicked. As she writes, she is in hopes that her work reaches her readers that have been through something and have contemplated giving up. Her goal is to enable her readers to become empowered to keep moving forward to accomplish their dreams no matter what challenges they have been faced with. Tonya resides in Bowie, MD with two of her youngest children, Christian and Zachary. Her eldest two, Andrew and Jessica left the nest years ago and have blessed her with seven beautiful grandkids. About The Book... The Little Girl Inside is a prolific story of triumph and discovery of inner peace. With each page, the reader will be captivated while the author uses the writing pen as a sowing tool-seaming a garment of praise, banner of victory and fabric of joy. With imaginative color, the book is a perfectly designed combination of patterns expressing the maturation of a woman. A uniquely designed transparent jewel every woman should own in her jewelry box. The Little Girl Inside is a ministry resource tool for women in search for transparency in the human heart. The author shows us how to overcome the inner battle of doing the right thing the wrong way, going from finding love in the wrong places to allowing love to be revealed in the right time and in the right place. Excerpt... I made room for Sir Intellectual to bring what I thought were the remainder of his things. I also made room on my health insurance policy just in case he didn't have any. Too bad it didn't occur to me to ask him. My ability to confront was non-existent. I decided not to wait until I returned to work to handle it. I contacted my carrier and updated my policy to include my new husband. The whole time I felt sad that he wasn't contacting his carrier to include me. I had a husband, though what caliber of husband, I wasn't sure. Sometimes I wanted to slap myself for being so needy that I overlooked important things and ignored flags, bells, and whistles. Connect with Tonya... Social Media Contacts Website: http://www.iamstillarose.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamstillarose Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paes/I-am-Still-a-Rose/1429623497335690 Purchase Links Barnes & Noble: https://tinyurl.com/y768n67m Amazon ebook: http://a.co/7V9fOx6 Amazon paperback: http://a.co/b9qsRcs Tour hosted by Write Now Literary Thanks for joining me for another Fab Friday Feature! Please leave a comment below. Tyora 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. It's another #writerwednesday and I'm excited. Writer Wednesday may perhaps be one of my favorite days (outside of Fridays and Saturdays, of course), because I can share with you what's in store, what I've got planned, what's currently out there, and anything else related to writing. And writing is my passion! So, today I'm sharing with you a sale and an in-person event. Don't miss what today's post holds... BeJeweled: The Flight of an Angel is filled with drama, spice, attitude, and scandal. It was the perfect way to kick off a series about salon-owner, Olivia Morris, and three other talented, beautiful women in a salon, with several supporting characters. You learn about their individual attitudes, fears, flaws, and what's going on in their personal lives behind closed doors. It's a depiction of the lives our stylists sometimes lead. We sit and gossip with them, share our lives, and partake of a bit of theirs. But do we really know their hurt, their pain, their dreams, and goals? Book 1 of The House of BeJeweled series, is my take on these women's reality. Get to know their men, their families, and their challenges and victories. You will connect with or be angered with some of the characters; however, each character will blossom and grow, and encourage your own personal journey to triumph. BeJeweled: The Flight of an Angel, is currently on sale for $0.99. Click to get your copy today. If you've already read it, or any of the other books in this series, please give me a shout out here: REVIEWS BeJeweled: The Flight of an Angel Download... The House of BeJeweled Series... Let's Meet... We talk on social media, you leave likes and comments on this blog, you receive newsletters from me in your inbox, but have we met in person? If not, here's your opportunity. I will be at the Clayton County Library at Battlecreek, this Saturday, October 14th from 10 AM until 3 PM. Check me, my author friends, Chicki Brown and M.J. Kane, and several other authors out for a day of celebration. It's the Indie Author event, and we'll be doing giveaways, book signings, and more. What a pleasure it will be to meet you in person! So, if you're in the metro Atlanta area, come on out and meet me. I can't wait to see you! 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 Fab Friday Feature! Please leave a comment below. Tyora 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. Readers, it's another Fab Friday and today's featured author is Ms. Tyora Moody. You know what I love about her books? She weaves three of my favorite elements into one...suspense and Christian fiction, and she throws us a splash of women's fiction to sweeten the pot. Check out what she's sharing on today... Thank you, Chelle for hosting me on your Beautifully Inspired Blog today. I want to thank your readers for stopping by today to learn about the Reed Family. Currently there are three sisters featured in three novellas, Broken Heart, Troubled Heart, and Relentless Heart. In 2018, I hope to continue the series with the brothers. For the third and final week we will focus on the third book in the series, Relentless Heart. Below you will find a synopsis and an excerpt from the book. Relentless: A Novella... Assistant District Attorney Asia Reed is relentless about not losing a case. But she’s fighting a losing battle in the faith department. Now approaching forty, never married and with no children, a growing sense of unease has made her weary about her career and life. When a former boyfriend and prominent defense attorney is gunned down in his office, Asia is jolted into action, determined to find out who’s responsible. Only hours before his death, Adam Locklear insists they meet about information she needs to know. Did Locklear’s death have anything to do with what he wanted share? Detective Isaac Coleman seems to think so. Will Asia's persistence put her in the path of a killer? Order Online at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074S6JF3B/ Excerpt... She stepped inside. The Locklear Law Firm was a sleek set of offices fitted with modern furniture, not at all like the traditional look and feel of her state-owned office building. She called out, “Adam?” His office was probably less than ten yards away directly to her left. She expected him to step out like he usually would. His thick hair would tell her what kind of day he’d had. If it was smoothed back, he’d obviously had a big win that day. If his salt and pepper mane was tousled, Adam had spent most of the day about to pull his hair out over a case. He didn’t like when things were messy, but he enjoyed the challenge. That was the other thing she liked about him. He presented this persona in the courtroom and with clients, but she’d seen his “real” human side. Asia frowned. Maybe he was on the phone. As she moved closer towards his office, she would have heard his booming voice. He wasn’t the kind of person with an inside voice. Something was wrong. It was way too quiet. Adam expected her so he wouldn’t have stepped out. Before she stepped inside Adam’s door, her senses heightened. There was a metallic smell in the air. She gripped her bag and compelled her legs to move inside Adam’s office. There were two lamps on, one on the desk and a tall lamp in the back corner across from his desk. She could see the buildings across the street through the two large windowpanes on either side of the desk. Whether her mind was preparing her for the scene, she didn’t know, but her eyes focused on Adam’s thick hair first. It was tousled. Then she saw his face. She stared in disbelief as her already wearied brain tried to process. Somewhere she heard a screeching noise. It was coming from her. She was screaming. Her eyes watered as she observed the blood-spattered wall behind Adam’s desk. His head was leaned back against his beloved black leather chair, eyes vacant. She covered her mouth and stumbled backwards. Tears ran down her eyes as she fumbled for her phone. She had to get help. Oh, Adam. What happened? Who did this? Broken Heart: A Novella (Book 1) http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Heart-Reed-Family-Book-ebook/dp/B01B9YP3M0/ Troubled Heart: A Novella (Book 2) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N58JRX4 Relentless Heart: A Novella (Book 3) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074S6JF3B/ About Tyora... Tyora Moody is the author of Soul-Searching Suspense books which include the Reed Family Novellas, Eugeena Patterson Mysteries, Serena Manchester Series, and the Victory Gospel Series. She is also the author of the nonfiction book, The Literary Entrepreneur’s Toolkit, and the compilation editor for the Stepping Into Victory Compilations under her company, Tymm Publishing LLC. As a literary-focused entrepreneur, she has assisted countless authors with developing an online presence via her design and marketing company, Tywebbin Creations LLC. Popular services include virtual event planning, book covers and book trailers. To contact Tyora about book club discussions or for book marketing workshops, visit her online at TyoraMoody.com. You can find her on social media at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram Thanks for joining me for another Fab Friday Feature! Please leave a comment below. Tyora 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. It's another #writerwednesday and we're taking a peek at how a woman's heart will stray, when she's not getting the love she needs at home. About A Woman's Design: Afflictions... Ambiance – Loving her husband, building her brand, and being there for her girls are the only things that matter to her. But she’s quickly learning that her love is not enough to build a strong, stable marriage. Surrounded by family, friends and business constituents should be enough; yet, she’s all alone. When her love isn’t enough to suffice her husband’s needs, Ambiance considers stepping beyond the vows and taking matters into her own hands. The tragic results will have her running into the arms of the Lord. Naomi – As a teen she made the decision to be a single mother. Choosing to build her life around her daughter has molded and shaped all the decisions she has made until now. Her relationship with her daughter is highly valued and nothing can shake it, not even her daughter’s attempts to grow up. But when her daughter’s so-called “deceased” father comes back, Naomi’s carefully constructed world may begin to crumble. Her efforts to protect her child may be the one thing that pushes her away, and she must decide if she will open herself up to love again. Paige- running from her inner demons she struggles to build a life vastly different than her mother and aunt’s. With a mindset of use or be used, she takes the concept of “love ‘em and leave ‘em” to a new level, and her promiscuous lifestyle is a cause of concern for all those who love her. She doesn’t care whose heart she’s breaking or whose life she’s ruining, it’s all about her. Until it no longer is. Three women are on a journey of self-discovery, as they deal with the fallout from choices made from emotion rather than self-awareness. Excerpt... It’s amazing how as women we can turn our emotions on and off. Not that they aren’t still there simmering under the surface, but we can put them in check when it serves our needs. All the way to work, I had been crying over Eric’s potential unfaithfulness. But as soon as I pulled into the parking lot of Vanilla Rose, the little boutique I worked at as a personal shopper during the day, I cleaned my face with a baby wipe. I kept them in my purse and glove compartment. Afterwards, I squeezed eye drops into my eyes to remove the red and reapplied my make-up. I walked into the shop with a smile on my face and began my day at work with Angelique the owner, and Peggy, our shared assistant. Two of the part-time staff were there already when I arrived. I hustled my way through the expected pleasantries and went into my office to lose myself for a moment. Around lunchtime, I had gone back into the shop to see if my 12:30 appointment had arrived. Angelique summoned me to her office for a moment. “Ambiance, I’ve been reviewing those stats you provided and looking at some of the designs in the portfolio. I just want to make sure you’re comfortable with your recommendations,” Angelique stated, pushing her long black bangs from her face. She turned the folder around to face me, so that I could see what she was discussing. I once again, reviewed the file, I had given her two weeks ago. I was certain, with all of the research I had done that my recommendations were on point. “Angelique, I don’t have any hesitations about this. The ROI on this will make it worth your initial investment. People love her designs, and they’re lasting.” She pulled the business card from her drawer. “You say her name is Sonya Pierce?” “Yes, she’s fabulous with what she does. Her tie-dye poncho and jumpsuit designs are one-of-a-kind originals. If you collaborate with her, I promise you won’t have to worry about your customers seeing someone else with one just like it. You can request colors and specific designs for your customers based on the feedback and sales reports,” I explained. I really wanted her to partner with Sonya, because her designs were not only original but phenomenal. I had rocked quite a few of them myself and received many compliments on them or people asking where they could purchase them. I believed it would be a great business venture for them to partner up. It would boost Vanilla Rose’s sales, while getting Sonya the attention she needed to grow her own company, The Poncho Girl. She had gone into business for herself a couple of years back, selling her fashions online. But she definitely could use more attention to boost awareness of her company. “Well, I love the fact that she designs an eclectic selection of clothing items which are novel designs. Do you think she would be open to starting with just her ponchos and then moving into offering the jumpsuits, pants, and dresses? I want to start small and see the response before I take on such a jump from my usual selections.” Angelique was always very careful with whatever she offered her clientele. But I wasn’t worried, I knew they would love Sonya’s pieces and be back for more. They would probably be in hot demand, so much so, that I hoped Sonya would be able to keep up. She would definitely have to consider hiring an assistant now. “I’m sure that would be fine, Angelique. So, have you decided to look into it?” I asked, with a barely concealed eagerness in my tone. “Actually, I’ve already looked into it. I was browsing her website the other day and wanted to look at it once more,” she confessed. She put her glasses on and turned her computer monitor to face both of us. “What was that website again?” she asked, reaching for Sonya’s business card. It was imprinted in my mind. “It’s www.theponchogirl.com.” I was anxious for her to make a decision. I really loved what Sonya had to offer and wanted to support her any way that I could. I believed in her talent and often tried to convince her to create handmade jewelry, as well. I was convinced she had an eye for this type of thing. I had already sent some of my clients from my fashion consulting business, Bleu Diamante, to her. “Yes, that’s it,” she stated, as she pulled the site up on her screen. She perused the monitor for a few seconds before turning to me. “I’m going to call her and set up a meeting.” Just as she picked up the phone, Nelly, one of the part-time sales associates, peeked her red head into the semi-open door. “There’s a gentleman out front that says he has an appointment with you, Angelique, to purchase some items for a gift,” she announced. “Oh, I completely forgot. Mr. Jackson was coming to purchase some items for his mother’s upcoming birthday. I was supposed to assist him with them, because I was unsure of your schedule of clients today, Ambiance. Do you think you can help him?” she asked, looking at me with a plea of desperation on her face. Of course, I would if that meant her calling Sonya and connecting with her. “Sure, no problem. Let me know how it goes,” I stated, smiling at her. “Of course, darling,” she replied, smiling back at me. Angelique had known me long enough to realize this was close to my heart, and really mattered to me. I stood and straightened my gold lamè off-the-shoulder, sweater dress over my hips and marched out of her office. Hopefully, this wouldn’t take up too much of my time. I was anxious to get back to Angelique and hear the results of the phone call. Speed-walking in my black stilettos with four-inch gold heels, I almost tripped and fell flat on my face when I came to an abrupt stop. This could not be happening to me. My heart was thudding in my chest. What were the chances of running into this man twice in a couple weeks? He must have worked in the area. It was amazing how I had only met him once before but recognized him from the back as if I had known him forever. “Here she is now,” Nelly stated, pointing over his shoulder in my direction. I tried to get the look of shock off my face before he turned around to face me. At six-four he towered over little Nelly, who was only five-one. He would have towered over my actual height of five-four had it not been for my stilettos. I crossed my arms over my ample breasts that were trying to peek out, since it appeared that was where his eyes were drawn to. That simple gesture made him look back up at me and lick his lips like the cat who swallowed the canary. The look in his eyes sent my mind to twirling again. This was not good. Why was this stranger having this effect on me? “Ambiance, this is Mr. Jackson. He has a 1:00 P.M. appointment to purchase some gift items. Mr. Jackson, this is Ambiance Caldwell, Vanilla Rose’s personal shopper. She will assist you with ideas, selections, and purchases,” Nelly introduced. Nick, as he had introduced himself upon our initial meeting, walked up to me and stretched out his hand. I couldn’t believe he was acting like he didn’t know me. I stretched my hand out, prepared to shake his, when he pulled it up to his lips and kissed it. I swear if the butterflies in my stomach were real, they would have come straight out my tummy and up through my mouth. Download Now... 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 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. There is so much going on in the world today. Everywhere we look there is so much terror and tragedy going on all around us. The news this morning is filled with the story of the Vegas shooting, where currently more than fifty are dead and more than four-hundred are injured. We must keep the victims and their family and friends covered in prayer during these tragic times. However, we must be careful not to allow ourselves to fall into a spirit of despair. We often speak of how senseless these acts are, and we become troubled as we look for resolutions to the problems that plague us. As we watch the news and listen to the radio, our spirits are disturbed and we cannot find peace. Prayer will bring us through, as well as focusing on the Word of God. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27 During these times we have to continue to trust the Lord and praise Him in the midst of the tragedy. Our praise enables us to give Him our troubles and to grow stronger while dealing with them. "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken." Psalm 55:22 During times of adversity it is easy to become fearful when we see these events on the news. We're scared to go out in public for fear of some attack on the public at large. We're fearful to go to movie events because of shootings in the movie theatre. We're fearful of our children being at school because of the school shootings. Yet, we have to tamp down that spirit of fear that does not come from the Lord, and tap into that spirit of love, power, and a sound mind to remain strong. Go forward and live your life, He's always right there. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6 Continue to pray for those who are injured or may have lost a loved one as a result of this tragic situation. Ask the Lord to send His Holy Spirit to provide them with the comfort, strength, and guidance they will need. "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4 "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3 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. 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. 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. 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!
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