This story begins with the last plague that struck Egypt.

Throughout the story, Hurston links the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt to Black people gaining freedom by writing in a southern Black voice. Hurston makes this a Black story just by using dialect. The way she handles how the Israelites would have handled the sudden realization of freedom is perfect. I know these people and I can see them very clearly. The way the Israelites were quick to complain and give up, is right in line with how people react to sudden change. Even when the change is for their benefit.

Hurston is a master of saying so much in so few words. I am looking forward to reading the next short story "The Tablets of the Law" which is also an excerpt from the Novel.

Sept of 2021 was the last episode in this series. Started in May 2020.

Returning to finish/ Three more stories to go.

Go to ifoundthisgreatbook.com/zora for all of the previous discussions of Hurston’s short stories.

Alice is a woman more people should research and read. She achieved as a musician, teacher and later writer. Her poems, essays and short stories are part of the building blocks that formed the Harlem Renaissance.

In 1898 Alice eloped with Paul Lawrence Dunbar. Their marriage ended during to the abusive behavior of Paul. In 1902, Alice separated from Paul. Paul died in 1906. Alice latter married poet and civil rights activist Robert J. Nelson. Thus the reason why she is remembered as Alice Dunbar-Nelson.

Alice should be remembered for the works of literature she produced during a time when society and tradition were forces opposing her. Her talent and determination made a way for her to create works that have lasted over 100 years.

In “Summer Session” we have a short story that starts out as a story of two men fighting for the attentions of a woman and has a twist that turns it into a police thriller. All this in 5 pages. The story starts with an argument between Elise and Logan about if she was flirting with a taxi driver who stopped to help Elise navigate the congested streets. There is a tension created by Elise having conflicted feelings about Logan who is a school principal and has the power to affect her teaching career. Then there are new found feelings for the taxi driver who is referred to as “the Taxi Adonis”.

Passion grows, there is a physical confrontation between Logan and “the Taxi Adonis”, a city wide kidnapping alert, and a captivating twist.

This short story will make you want to read more of Alice Dunbar-Nelson’s works. Her ability to tell a captivating story is inspiring.

You can find this story in Paula L. Woods anthology of Black mystery, crime and suspense fiction of the 20th century, “Spooks, Spies, and Private Eyes”. This book is a good way to get an overview of the history of Black crime fiction writers by reading short stories and excerpts of their works.

A collection of short stories by Alice Dunbar-Nelson is available in ebook and paper back. You can also find collections of her poetry. She was also an accomplished writer of essays.

https://bookshop.org/a/6792/9781528719995

Nicole Glover

The Seekers

4th book in The Murder and Magic Series

Book Blurb:

In the 1960s, the world was caught up in reaching beyond our planet and into the cosmos. It felt impossible—but there was nothing science, math…and magic couldn’t make possible. The race to space was on, and the Moon was what everyone had their eyes on.

Including Cynthia Rhodes, a brilliant arcane engineer at NASA’s Ainsworth Research Labs. Talented in math and magic, she hosts a magical educational show... a job she took mostly for a chance to regularly see the dashing Theodore Danner, a professor of arcane archeology.

She is also an amateur sleuth—something that has run in her family for generations.

When a cursed museum curator nearly interrupts a broadcast of their show, Cynthia finds an eager sleuthing partner in Theo. Pairing up, they begin investigating the strange behavior of the curator and a mysterious theft at the arcane history museum—until one of Cynthia’s own coworkers perishes right in front of her in a major lab accident that endangers Ainsworth’s role in the space race.

Certain it was murder instead of an accident, Cynthia sees this as a separate case at first. However the more she and Theo investigate, Cynthia uncovers a surprising link between the two incidents. The museum theft and murder are part of a larger equation—one that includes deadly enchantments, rumored pirate treasure, a peculiar plant, and a dire threat to the space program as well as everything she holds dear.

Interview with Ms. Glover after her first book in the series

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/a-conversation-with-mystery-author-nicole-glover/

Bryan Patric Avory

The Spy in the Gymnasium

The Spy at the Zoo

The Spy in the Museum

The Spy in the Library

4 books - the Junior Spy series

Main characters - Kat and Harry

Blurb for “The Spy. In the Gymnasium:

The Junior Spies are at it again! This time, Kat and Harry go undercover on their school’s basketball team. Their mission is to protect the star player, Remy. But when Remy gets kidnapped, the Junior Spies suspect a R.A.V.E.N. agent might be in their midst. Can they find the hoops hero and uncover the evil agent hiding in their school? Young readers will find out in this hi-lo spy adventure! With a high-interest topic and text written below the targeted grade level, every book in the Junior Spies series supports phonics skills and fosters reading success.

Valerie Wilson Wesly

The Mysterious Death of Junetta Plum

Historical Mystery - new series - A Harriet Stone Mystery

1926: Harriet Stone, a liberated, educated Black woman, and Lovey, the orphaned, biracial, 12-year-old she is bound to protect are Harlem-bound, embarking on a new, hopefully less traumatic, chapter in their lives. They have been invited to move from Connecticut by Harriet’s cousin, Junetta Plum, who runs a boarding house for independent-minded single women. It’s a bold move since Harriet has never met Junetta, but the fatalities of the Spanish flu and other tragedies have already forced her and Lovey to face their worst fears. Alone except for each other, they have little left to lose—or so it seems as they arrive at sophisticated Junetta’s impressive brownstone.

Her cousin has a sharp edge that makes Harriett slightly uncomfortable. Still, after retiring to her room for the night, she finally falls asleep—only to awaken to Junetta arguing with someone downstairs. In the morning, she makes a shocking discovery at the foot of the stairs. What ensues will lead Harriet to question Junetta’s very identity—and to wonder if she and Lovey are in danger as well. It will also tie Harriet to five strangers. Among them, Harriet is sure someone knows something. What she doesn’t yet know is that one will play a crucial role in helping her investigate her cousin’s murder...that she will be tied to the others in ways she could never imagine...and that her life will take off in a startling new direction....

Tracy Clark

Edge

Fourth book in the Detective Harriett Foster series

Chicago’s finest are scouring the city for a tainted new opioid making the rounds, but they’re coming up empty. With five people already dead—a college kid, a new mother, and three poker players—all they really know is the drug’s name: Edge. Where it’s coming from is still anyone’s guess.

Detective Harriet Foster doesn’t have time for guessing games. She needs answers. And when the next overdose hits Homicide where it hurts most, Harri is determined to get what she wants. But keeping her eyes squarely on the prize proves harder than expected.

Still reeling from her last case (and the stain of suspicion it left on her career), Harri finds herself at a tipping point. The drug isn’t the only edge she needs to worry about. If she can’t come back from her own, there’s no telling whether this investigation will lead to a satisfying conclusion…or her own demise.

I have had the honor to interview Ms. Clark.

After the publication of the fourth book in her Chicago Mystery series “Runner” https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/talking-with-mystery-author-tracy-clark/

And after the publication of the first book in the Detective Harriet Foster series “Hide” https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/tracy-clark-hide/

Barbara Howard

Code War Cleveland

In the heart of Cleveland's tech scene, two brilliant minds are about to collide - two rivals, one conspiracy, zero margin for error.

Kennedy Wyatt's cybersecurity firm is her life's work, built from the ground up to protect minority-owned businesses from digital threats. But when a mysterious wave of attacks begins targeting companies like hers, she discovers a conspiracy that runs deeper than mere code. Enter Isaiah Binutu, a charismatic rival CEO whose innovative software seems suspiciously similar to Kennedy's latest project. As their professional rivalry heats up at Cleveland's prestigious TechCLE conference, a series of escalating threats forces them to consider the unthinkable: working together. With their families under attack, their companies at risk, and a shadowy corporation pulling strings, Kennedy and Isaiah must navigate a maze of betrayal, corporate espionage, and their own complicated feelings for each other. The stakes? Their companies' futures-and their lives. From the bustling West Side Market to the serene shores of Lake Erie, this romantic suspense races through Cleveland's landmarks as two competitors-turned-allies fight to expose a conspiracy that threatens everything they've built. But in a world where digital footprints can be erased, identities stolen, and time is running out to separate friend from foe. Can they really believe in each other?

In a digital battlefield, trust is the ultimate hack.

Angela Henry

Nobody Heard A Thing

New Thriller

I was the only one there that day. I saw it all. I heard her cry.

It’s been twenty-five years since she vanished. Whoever took Brooke has walked free for all those years, watching the chaos as guilt consumed my life.

Now a documentary maker is digging into the cold case. They want to finally solve the mystery no one else could. But the person behind Brooke’s disappearance would do anything—even kill—to keep their secrets hidden.

And they know I’m the only witness…

V.M. Burns

Murder From A to Z

Extensive Cozy Mystery Series

New book in the Mystery Bookshop series - book #11

When Michigan bookshop owner and mystery writer Samantha Washington and her sister, Jenna, agreed to host a class for seniors on estate planning, they didn’t plan on discovering shady doings at Shady Acres Retirement Village . . .

Nana Jo has volunteered her lawyer granddaughter, Jenna, to teach estate planning to retirees—with Sam providing her bookshop as the venue. But during the seminar, entitled Getting Your Ducks in Order, it quickly becomes clear someone’s up to Fowl Play. When elderly Alva Tarkington, accompanied by her niece, sits down for a consultation, Sam realizes the woman’s frequent blinking is actually Morse Code—S.O.S. The sisters get her alone, and Alva tells them she believes her life is in danger and must change her will . . .

Unfortunately, Alva is found dead the next day—seemingly from natural causes. But Nana Jo and the sisters suspect otherwise. In between penning her latest historical mystery, set in 1939 as England declares war on Germany and Lady Elizabeth Marsh pursues stolen paintings and a traitor, Sam teams up with the senior sleuths of Shady Acres to search for motives—beginning with Alva’s family. They soon learn not everyone is who they say they are, and someone is more than qualified to teach a class on cold-blooded murder . . .

I had extreme honor of...]]>Episode 153

Nicole Glover

The Seekers

4th book in The Murder and Magic Series

Book Blurb:

In the 1960s, the world was caught up in reaching beyond our planet and into the cosmos. It felt impossible—but there was nothing science, math…and magic couldn’t make possible. The race to space was on, and the Moon was what everyone had their eyes on.

Including Cynthia Rhodes, a brilliant arcane engineer at NASA’s Ainsworth Research Labs. Talented in math and magic, she hosts a magical educational show... a job she took mostly for a chance to regularly see the dashing Theodore Danner, a professor of arcane archeology.

She is also an amateur sleuth—something that has run in her family for generations.

When a cursed museum curator nearly interrupts a broadcast of their show, Cynthia finds an eager sleuthing partner in Theo. Pairing up, they begin investigating the strange behavior of the curator and a mysterious theft at the arcane history museum—until one of Cynthia’s own coworkers perishes right in front of her in a major lab accident that endangers Ainsworth’s role in the space race.

Certain it was murder instead of an accident, Cynthia sees this as a separate case at first. However the more she and Theo investigate, Cynthia uncovers a surprising link between the two incidents. The museum theft and murder are part of a larger equation—one that includes deadly enchantments, rumored pirate treasure, a peculiar plant, and a dire threat to the space program as well as everything she holds dear.

Interview with Ms. Glover after her first book in the series

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/a-conversation-with-mystery-author-nicole-glover/

Bryan Patric Avory

The Spy in the Gymnasium

The Spy at the Zoo

The Spy in the Museum

The Spy in the Library

4 books - the Junior Spy series

Main characters - Kat and Harry

Blurb for “The Spy. In the Gymnasium:

The Junior Spies are at it again! This time, Kat and Harry go undercover on their school’s basketball team. Their mission is to protect the star player, Remy. But when Remy gets kidnapped, the Junior Spies suspect a R.A.V.E.N. agent might be in their midst. Can they find the hoops hero and uncover the evil agent hiding in their school? Young readers will find out in this hi-lo spy adventure! With a high-interest topic and text written below the targeted grade level, every book in the Junior Spies series supports phonics skills and fosters reading success.

Valerie Wilson Wesly

The Mysterious Death of Junetta Plum

Historical Mystery - new series - A Harriet Stone Mystery

1926: Harriet Stone, a liberated, educated Black woman, and Lovey, the orphaned, biracial, 12-year-old she is bound to protect are Harlem-bound, embarking on a new, hopefully less traumatic, chapter in their lives. They have been invited to move from Connecticut by Harriet’s cousin, Junetta Plum, who runs a boarding house for independent-minded single women. It’s a bold move since Harriet has never met Junetta, but the fatalities of the Spanish flu and other tragedies have already forced her and Lovey to face their worst fears. Alone except for each other, they have little left to lose—or so it seems as they arrive at sophisticated Junetta’s impressive brownstone.

Her cousin has a sharp edge that makes Harriett slightly uncomfortable. Still, after retiring to her room for the night, she finally falls asleep—only to awaken to Junetta arguing with someone downstairs. In the morning, she makes a shocking discovery at the foot of the stairs. What ensues will lead Harriet to question Junetta’s very identity—and to wonder if she and Lovey are in danger as well. It will also tie Harriet to five strangers. Among them, Harriet is sure someone knows something. What she doesn’t yet know is that one will play a crucial role in helping her investigate her cousin’s murder...that she will be tied to the others in ways she could never imagine...and that her life will take off in a startling new direction....

Tracy Clark

Edge

Fourth book in the Detective Harriett Foster series

Chicago’s finest are scouring the city for a tainted new opioid making the rounds, but they’re coming up empty. With five people already dead—a college kid, a new mother, and three poker players—all they really know is the drug’s name: Edge. Where it’s coming from is still anyone’s guess.

Detective Harriet Foster doesn’t have time for guessing games. She needs answers. And when the next overdose hits Homicide where it hurts most, Harri is determined to get what she wants. But keeping her eyes squarely on the prize proves harder than expected.

Still reeling from her last case (and the stain of suspicion it left on her career), Harri finds herself at a tipping point. The drug isn’t the only edge she needs to worry about. If she can’t come back from her own, there’s no telling whether this investigation will lead to a satisfying conclusion…or her own demise.

I have had the honor to interview Ms. Clark.

After the publication of the fourth book in her Chicago Mystery series “Runner” https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/talking-with-mystery-author-tracy-clark/

And after the publication of the first book in the Detective Harriet Foster series “Hide” https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/tracy-clark-hide/

Barbara Howard

Code War Cleveland

In the heart of Cleveland's tech scene, two brilliant minds are about to collide - two rivals, one conspiracy, zero margin for error.

Kennedy Wyatt's cybersecurity firm is her life's work, built from the ground up to protect minority-owned businesses from digital threats. But when a mysterious wave of attacks begins targeting companies like hers, she discovers a conspiracy that runs deeper than mere code. Enter Isaiah Binutu, a charismatic rival CEO whose innovative software seems suspiciously similar to Kennedy's latest project. As their professional rivalry heats up at Cleveland's prestigious TechCLE conference, a series of escalating threats forces them to consider the unthinkable: working together. With their families under attack, their companies at risk, and a shadowy corporation pulling strings, Kennedy and Isaiah must navigate a maze of betrayal, corporate espionage, and their own complicated feelings for each other. The stakes? Their companies' futures-and their lives. From the bustling West Side Market to the serene shores of Lake Erie, this romantic suspense races through Cleveland's landmarks as two competitors-turned-allies fight to expose a conspiracy that threatens everything they've built. But in a world where digital footprints can be erased, identities stolen, and time is running out to separate friend from foe. Can they really believe in each other?

In a digital battlefield, trust is the ultimate hack.

Angela Henry

Nobody Heard A Thing

New Thriller

I was the only one there that day. I saw it all. I heard her cry.

It’s been twenty-five years since she vanished. Whoever took Brooke has walked free for all those years, watching the chaos as guilt consumed my life.

Now a documentary maker is digging into the cold case. They want to finally solve the mystery no one else could. But the person behind Brooke’s disappearance would do anything—even kill—to keep their secrets hidden.

And they know I’m the only witness…

V.M. Burns

Murder From A to Z

Extensive Cozy Mystery Series

New book in the Mystery Bookshop series - book #11

When Michigan bookshop owner and mystery writer Samantha Washington and her sister, Jenna, agreed to host a class for seniors on estate planning, they didn’t plan on discovering shady doings at Shady Acres Retirement Village . . .

Nana Jo has volunteered her lawyer granddaughter, Jenna, to teach estate planning to retirees—with Sam providing her bookshop as the venue. But during the seminar, entitled Getting Your Ducks in Order, it quickly becomes clear someone’s up to Fowl Play. When elderly Alva Tarkington, accompanied by her niece, sits down for a consultation, Sam realizes the woman’s frequent blinking is actually Morse Code—S.O.S. The sisters get her alone, and Alva tells them she believes her life is in danger and must change her will . . .

Unfortunately, Alva is found dead the next day—seemingly from natural causes. But Nana Jo and the sisters suspect otherwise. In between penning her latest historical mystery, set in 1939 as England declares war on Germany and Lady Elizabeth Marsh pursues stolen paintings and a traitor, Sam teams up with the senior sleuths of Shady Acres to search for motives—beginning with Alva’s family. They soon learn not everyone is who they say they are, and someone is more than qualified to teach a class on cold-blooded murder . . .

I had extreme honor of interviewing Ms. Burns in 2020 - https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/vm-burns-interview/

Items to check out

Cheryl Head is the winner of this year's Saints and Sinners Literary Festival fiction contest with her story "By Any Other Name")

There is a great interview with Ms. Head on The Short Mystery Fiction Society Blog. Link in the show notes.

The society is the home of the Derringer Awards.

It is free to join. They have discussion groups and submission calls.

The Short Mystery Fiction Society is for writers, editors, publishers, agents, reviewers, readers - anyone interested in short crime fiction.

You can check it out at shortmystery.blogspot.com

Updates on the podcast and website

I am rebuilding my directory of Black Crime Writers and their books. I currently have 302 books in the directory. I have over 400 more to add.

You can check out the directory by going to ifoundthisgreatbook.com/bmad

I also discuss three new books I recently added to my directory of crime fiction by Black authors.

Finally, I discuss why the podcast has been on such a long pause and what are my plans for the podcast in the future.

You can find all the books discussed and more here:

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/podcast-episode/knights-shade-angela-henry/

Tracy provides some great insights into the creation of her new sleuth, Harriet Foster. Listen to this interview to find out why Ms. Clark gave her sleuth three incredible heavy burdens to carry while she attempts to hunt down a serial killer who is targeting red hair women with deep blue eyes. You will also discover why her sleuth, Harriet Foster, must be paired with the one person in the detective squad everyone tries to avoid. We learn why for Harriet it is this job or nothing. Tracy provides some great insights into how she gets into the mind of the serial killer.

And so much more.

Tracy Clark, author of "Hide"- Interviews - I Found This Great Book

You can find Tracy Clark on Twitter @tracypc6161 and her website: www.tracyclarkbooks.com

Fay Snowden's Website: Noir mystery writer | Faye Snowden

I had the immense pleasure to talk with mystery author Faye Snowden. Her latest book is "A Killing Rain" and features her sleuth, Raven Burns. "A Killing Rain" is the second book in the Raven Burns series of mysteries.

We Discuss

Tonia Ransom is the creator of the Nightlight podcast. The podcast is dedicated to showcasing horror fiction by Black authors. You will hear new and classic horror fiction by Black authors professionally read. If you have an interest in horror and always wanted to find stories in the genre that center Black people, this podcast is perfect for you. Tonia also features interviews with many of the authors of the works presented. In 2021, the podcast earned the IGNYTE award for Best Fiction Podcast. When Tonia is not producing an award-winning podcast, she is busy writing her own horror fiction.

You can explore the Nightlight podcast here. NIGHTLIGHT – A Black Horror Podcast (nightlightpod.com)

Also, you can listen to a previous interview I conducted with Tonia here.

Nicole Glovers books "The Conductors" and "The Undertakers" are historical mystery set in post civil war Philidelphia. The sleuths Hetty and Benjy solve murder mysteries with magic.

• 03:00 – Nicole discusses her motivation for creating The Conductors.
• 04:13 – Nicole provides details on her research process. She provides some insightful information on the fact and myths of life during the Pre and Post Civil War period.
• 14:13 – We discuss the magic system created for The Conductors and The Undertakers.
• 19:33 – We discuss the relationship between Benjy and Hetty. Nicole gives insight on how she includes a romance story thread in her books.
• 24:51 – We explore how Hetty and Benjy work together as a team to solve the murder mystery.
• 27:39 – We talk about how Nocole Glover's Magic and Murder series uses post civil war Philidelphia as its setting. Especially the lesser-known Black community.
• 30:23 – We discuss the second book in the series, The Undertakers.
• 42:28 – Nicole gives us insight into her writing process.

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/a-conversation-with-alverne-ball-mystery-and-graphic-novel-author/

Author of the Frank Calhoun police procedurals series

• Only the Holy Remain
• Blue Religion

And the New Graphic Novel – "Across the Tracks: Remembering the Tulsa Race Massacre and Black Wall Street"

We discuss

Alverne's sleuth Frank Calhoun who has some heavy demons he is fighting. Alverne provides insight into the character and his reasons for creating Frank Calhoun.

We discussed the relationship between Frank Calhoun and his partner Fred Lions. How two Black police officers are seen by others as similar when the reality is so very different.

Alverne shares the details on his research process of this book.

We learn how the city of Chicago plays an important role in both books in the series.

Alverne digs deep into how his mysteries explore the relationship between the Black community and the police force. Also, the relationship between Black police officers and the community.

We discuss the new graphic novel ("Across the Tracks:") by Alverne Ball and illustrator Stacey Robinson.

Alverne explains how this graphic novel brings a new approach to telling the story of the Tulsa Race Massacre and Black Wall Street.

Alverne shares some news about his future projects

Related Links

5 Things I Learned About Writing From Watching Soap Operas - Writer's Digest (writersdigest.com)

https://youtu.be/UaDZyhvow_o

Follow Alverne Ball on social media

Twitter: @AlverneBall

Facebook: /AlverneBall

Instagram: @alverneball

In the first 30 minutes we have a spoiler free discussion of the book and Molli and Dani provide great insights on how Faucet's classic work share similarity to some contemporary literary genres. The remaining portions of the discussion dig deep into the characters and the dynamics of life depicted in this novel.

Dani and Molli bring great wisdom and fun to the discussion of this novel.

Black Chick Lit is a bi-monthly podcast that talks books by and about black women. Each month, they host an in-depth look at a title written by a black woman and its author. Dani and Mollie read across genres and forms, including literary fiction, non-fiction, YA, poetry, and urban fiction. Previous episodes include Queen Sugar, by Natalie Baszile; The Hate U Give, by Angie Thomas; and Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston.

In between book discussion episodes, they host Black Chit Lit Chats. Each month, they ask listeners to share their opinions about different aspects of reader life. Check out this episode where we discuss books every black woman should read.

The Shoemaker Murder is a locked room mystery set in Harlem in the early 1900s. Johnson, the shoemaker, lies dead on his shop floor. He was hit brutally in the back of the head with a hammer. The door of the shop was locked from the inside, the transom was nailed shut, and everyone around the shop swore that no one entered or existed the shop before and after the murder.

Detective Sergeant Henry Burns oversees the case. A tall Black man with a keen eye for details. He begins questioning everyone in proximity of the scene of the crime and thoroughly inspects the building. He discovered a possible way in the shop but how did the murderer exit without leaving a trace and leave all the doors locked from the inside? Detective Sergeant Burns strikes upon the answer, brings his suspect in for questioning and sets a trap that leaves the murderer no choice but to confess.

This is a quick read and overall, an enjoyable story. It is not the most complex locked room mystery you will read. It helps if you are familiar with the types of access points homes in the 1900s would have had. You definitely see how Detective Sergeant Burns has a gift for observation and deductive logic. When he explains how he knew who to bring in for questioning it will make sense.

This story is significant because of its author. George Schuyler is a noted writer of the Harlem Renaissance and beyond. Known for his scathing articles and fiction, which exposed corruption and fraud among whites and blacks. I first became aware of Mr. Schuyler from his book, "Black No More." This book satirizes American racism, and no one is safe from his biting wit. Schuyler was also the author of several mysteries and crime fiction that were published under his name and pen names. "Black No More" is widely available but many of his other works are a little harder to find. In the 1930s, he wrote some of the earliest known political thrillers by a Black author. I found one collection of these political thrillers on archiver.org. Another collection of stories "Ethiopian Stories" is harder to find and can be quite expensive. Let's hope as these works become part of the public domain they can be reprinted and made available for all people interested. His autobiography is widely available. where he details his life as a conservative.

Teddy Hayes - Black Mystery Authors - I Found This Great Book

I discuss "Since You Went Away" by Frankie Y Bailey. A locked room style mystery set on a train going from New Orleans to Chicago in 1946.

https://ifoundthisgreatbook.com/142

You can listen to all my discussions of Hurston's short stories at https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/zora

Check out his book at: https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/136

00:43 -----We talk Bouchercon and Cheryl's involvement as a board member 02:34 -----Cheryl gives us insight into the cast of characters who surround and support her sleuth Charlie Mack 11:33 ----- We get insight into what motivates Charlie Mack 16:11 ----- We talk about the challenges and conflicts Charlie Mack faces being "othered" while working in law enforcement 18:26 ----- We discuss how Charlie's girlfriend being a police officer changes the dynamics of the story and breaks standard troupes 20:51 ----- Cheryl shares how her sleuth, Charlie Mack, has an expansive mind and how her sleuth is breaking down boundaries by living her life 26:17 ----- We talk about the relationships between the local police, federal agents, and Charlie Mack's investigative team 35:02 ----- We discuss the research that went into the latest book, "Warn Me When It's Time", and its focus on hate groups 45:14 ----- Cheryl Head shares information on her writing process 47:03 ----- We talk about Cheryl's new project to write a literary mystery 50:47 ----- We geek out on a discussion of the works from the Harlem Renaissance and the lives of Black people then compared to now 54:15 ----- We geek out some more as we talk about the Julie Moody-Freeman's Black Romance Podcast 55:59 ----- Cheryl Head discusses the forward she wrote for the reissue of Nikki Baker's "Long Goodbyes" and the impact Nikki Baker's works had on her life and writing 59:00 ----- We talk about the impact of Charlie Mack being a queer black woman who is the central sleuth in a great mystery series

We discussed: 01:25 – Nekesa shares why she selected 1920s Harlem as the setting for her mystery 03:03 – We learn how Nekesa's sleuth Louise Lloyd was created 06:22 – We talk about how the reader will gain a new insight into Harlem and the 1920s 07:36 – Nekesa share more on the events that have had an early effect on Louise 10:35 – We learn the sources of Louise's courage 13:34 – Nekesa gives us insight in Louise Lloyd's life when she is not on a case 16:19 – The Zodiac club plays a key role in the story and Nekesa shares the vivid image she has for this club. 18:27 – We discuss the wonderful relationships between the characters in Dead Dead Girls 22:54 – Nekesa Afia shares insight into her writing process

The original version of this story is titled "Now You Cookin' with Gas

Includes a "Glossary of Harlem Slang" which was originally call "Harlem Slanguage

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/zora

The narrator begins telling us about Jelly. A young man who is a pimp. Now in 1942 the team pimp did not mean what it means today. A pimp in this story was a man who lived off the kindness of women due to his ability to romance and seduce them. I guess we would use the term Gigolo now.

The story starts with Jelly realizing that it has been a day or so since he had a free meal and his stomach was growling. As Jelly is on his way to find a working woman to gift him with a meal, he runs into a fellow pimp named Sweet Back on 132nd street.

The two men engage in a battle of words and bluffs powered by egos that were not backed up by strength or money. The exchange between the two men is funny and tragic at the same time. The humor comes from the rhythm and poetry of the slang. The way they push up against the edge of a real confrontation while knowing that neither of them wants to really fight. Also, you realize early on that these two men are telling bigger lies that anyone ever told on the porch of Joe Clark's store.

The tragic part of the story is the fact that these two men are unable to live a life half as big as their egos. The fact that they plan to live off the kindness of women has its own serious issues, but the fact that they seem to be executing their plan so poorly adds another level of sadness to their lives.

Hurston captures all this through the dialog between Jelly and Sweet Back. It really becomes apparent when they try to persuade a young lady who is passing by to join one of them for a meal. Of course, they needed her to pay for this meal. As you can expect, both men strike out.

Sweet Back tries to save face by implying that the young woman was not worthy of him. Jelly on the other had has a moment of reflection about his former life down south and his life choices in Harlem.

Both versions of this story are in "The Complete Stories" along with the two versions of the glossary. The glossary is a treasure to read on its own. While it was easy to grasp the meaning of the slang as you were reading, there were some words and phrased that stumped me. The glossary comes in handy.

I loved this story, and I preferred the original over the published version. Hurston captured the life and energy of the sporting life men of Harlem in her dialog. While neither Jelly nor Sweet Back were noble men, you still feel slightly sorry for them. Very slightly.

When reading this story, I could visualize these two men blowing smoke at each other knowing full well that they both had nothing to back it up. We see the same scene played out often in life when people will go through extraordinary measures to save face and protect their egos.

I can recommend this story if you can put your 2021 mind on pause and see that Hurston is poking fun at male bravado. You will laugh at some parts and roll your eyes at others, but you will have an enjoyable read.

The author of the Gethsemane Brown Mysteries.

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/133

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/132

We discussed:

02:00 - We learn about Tracy's sleuth Cass Raines

04:10 - We learn why Cass Raines entered the police force

06:30 - We talk about the source of Cass' courage

08:41 - Tracy shares why her stories are set in Chicago

12:14 - We learn what Cass' life is like when she is not on a case

15:42 - Tracy describes what type of sleuth Cass is

17:51 - Tracy shares how the weather of Chicago plays a part in her books

20:13 - We talk about how the villains in Tracy's books are portrayed

22:00 - We talk the unique challenges Cass faces in "Runner", Tracy's latest book

25:12 - We discuss the growth of Cass through the books in the series

27:56 - Tracy Clark gives us a preview of her next book

31:27 - Tracy describes her writing style and sources of inspiration

Krys Batts - Black Mystery Authors - I Found This Great Book

Published in 1924, "There is Confusion", follows the coming of age of a group of friends who are the first generation not touched directly by slavery. Fauset paints an intriguing and insightful picture of young Black people in the middle-class world of New York and Philadelphia.

Learn more about Jessie Redmon Fauset at www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/jessie

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/126

Check all of Tracy Clark's books here:

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/118

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/zora

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/114

You can listen to all of my discussion here:

Reading Zora Neale Hurston's Short Stories - I Found This Great Book

An exploration of writing style by Hurston

This short story is similar to "Book of Harlem" in its writing style. In both of these stories, Hurston uses a structure and voice that is similar to old testament texts. From the numbered paragraphs to the use of third person, these stories take on the same voice you would hear if someone read the old testament to you. I can almost imagine a preacher reading this story as a preface to their sermon. I even hear the Amen when the story concludes.

A migration story

Now that I am almost at the halfway point in through this journey, I see a consistent story that Hurston likes to capture. The life of black people who migrated from the south to New York is often included in these stories. Sometimes it is a back story and in the case of this story, it is the main story. All in all, this story tells about the adventures of Jazzbo. He leaves his life in Waycross, Georgia and heads to Harlem. He learns the ways of the people of Harlem. From his clothes to his skills at talking sweet things to women, Jazzbo eventually gains a style that wins him his lady love and a life in Harlem.

Compared to "Book of Harlem"

I think this story was less intriguing. It may be that I had experience with the format from "Book of Harlem" but I think the story in "The Book of Harlem" is a little less interesting. Both stories are intriguing in their writing style and I think in the hands of a gifted performer, they would be interesting to hear performed.

Overall - I continue to be impressed by the depth and skill of Hurston's writing.

You can follow me on this journey by going to www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/zora

www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/110

Alicia from the Pretty Brown Eye Reader YouTube channel joins me for a discussion of this very funny short story. You can also follow Alicia on her Instagram channel @prettybrowneyereader and on Twitter @pbereader.

• At the 01:25 mark, Alicia talks about her YouTube channel.
• At the 03:26 mark, I give a brief overview of the story.
• At the 04:48 mark, we give our initial impressions of the story.
• At the 06:21 mark, we talk about our impressions of the two main characters, Caroline and Mitchell
• At the 12:13 mark, we begin talking about how Caroline handled the women who cheated with her husband. We had a lot of fun talking about this. Hurston's humor shines in this section of the story. Much laughter occurs during this part of the discussion.
• At the 24:38 mark, we examine the story further and how this story fits in the rest of the collected short stories
• At the 34:05 mark, Alicia share more about her BookTube channel. It's creation, the rewards and challenges.
• At the 36:16 mark, we talk about Alicia's love for poetry and how she has used her BookTube channel to promote poetry.
• At the 39:05 mark, we talk about some of the challenges and running a YouTube channel
• At the 40:21 mark, we talk about the richness of Black literature and the importance of promoting it.
• At the 46:29 mark, Alicia shares her experience running a book club at her library.
• At the 54:32 mark, Alicia share some advice for people interested in starting a YouTube channel to discuss books.

You can view both books in the series at: https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/108

The books in this series are:

The Fallen Angels Book Club

Sticks & Stones

The Return of the Fallen Angels Book Club

The Trade List

The Bell Tolls

The Identity Thief

R. Franklin James has started a new cozy mystery series. The first book in the series is: The Appraiser.

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/106

https://kellyegarrett.com/

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/104

I want to thank Marci and Ako for joining me on this special episode. Check out their great podcast.

https://www.thesecoloredpages.com/

View all of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's mystery at: https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/102

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/101

Follow Frankie on her website: www.frankieybailey.com

To stay up to date on the conference for crime writers of color, keep visiting the Justice and Multiculturalism in the 21st century website. Hosted by the School of Criminal Justice at the University of Albany.

We discussed:

[00:01:42] Frankie's sleuth in her Lizzie Stewart mystery series. Frankie discusses here motivations for the series and her writing process. Also, the challenges of writing when your cat has another agenda.

[00:06:29] We talk about Frankie's Hannah McCabe series. Frankie talks about her technique of setting the stories in the near future and her future for the plans for the series.

[00:09:46] Frankie shares the differences between writing a police procedural and an amateur sleuth mystery. Frankie also gives us insight into a historical mystery she is working on.

[00:15:39] Frankie tells us about her plans for the Lizzie Stewart mystery series

[00:17:59] Frankie talks about how her work as a crime historian has influenced her writing.

[00:21:51] We talk about Eleanor Taylor Bland and her early efforts to connect and promote black mystery authors.

[00:26:53] We discuss how Frankie's List was created.

[00:29:05] We discuss "African American Mystery Writers: A Historical and Thematic Study".

[00:34:53] Frankie recommends two of the early black authors in the mystery genre. Pauline Elizabeth Hopkins and Rudolph Fisher.

[00:45:01] Frankie shares her insight on how the publishing world has changed for Black mystery authors since Chester Himes.

[00:47:23] We talk about Frankie's plans for a virtual conference for Crime Writers of Color at the University of Albany in March 2021.

[00:52:18] Frankie shares some more information on her next Lizzie Stuart book.

To see all of Danny Gardner's books go to:

www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/99

We Discussed:

[00:01:18] Danny Gardner's stories are set in Chicago in the 1950s. Danny explains why he selected this time period for his stories.

[00:12:47] Danny discusses how he builds Elliot Caprice's world.

[00:22:05] Danny's sleuth works as a process server. We talk about why Danny selected this profession.

[00:31:21] Elliot Caprice's life is lived on an edge between conflicting cultures and between criminals and law enforcement. Danny discusses how he maintains this balance.

[00:42:01] We talk about how Danny keeps the tension going in his novels.

[00:51:13] Gentrification is a key issue in Ace Boon Coon. Danny talks about how he uses it in his novel and his own views on the subject.

[00:59:14] Danny explains his inspiration for the title of his latest book, "Ace Boon Coon".

[01:09:09] Danny shares what feedback he is getting from readers of "Ace Boon Coon".

[01:21:04] Danny talks about how his character, Elliot Caprice, has developed from the first book.

[01:26:20] We talk about the difference between the way black criminals are portrayed vs other groups of people. Danny also explains how he is able to bring the humanity of black criminals to the page.

[01:46:07] Danny gives us insight into the hard-boiled genre and how his works fit in that world.

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/97

[00:02:04] Abby tell us why she selected Chagrin Falls, Ohio for the setting for her new cozy mystery series

[00:04:27] Abby shares why she choose the winer season for this story.

[00:06:33] We share our snow stories

[00:07:45] We talk about Abby's name choice for her central character and how she create names for her characters. We also talk about the unique character trait of her protagonist Bronwyn

[00:12:46] Abby explains why she selected an ice-cream parlor as the central business in this cozy mystery series

[00:15:07] Abby shares how she balances mystery and family back stories in this book

[00:18:31] We talk about the black family portrayed in "A Deadly Inside Scoop"

[00:21:19] We get a preview of the next book in the Ice Cream Parlor series

[00:25:36] Abby shares why her latest book is published under the pen name Abby Colette.

[00:29:05] Abby shares her experience as both a self-published author and now a tradionally published author

[00:36:11] We talk about the other cozy mystery series by Abby

[00:56:38] We talk about how Abby's experience as a lawyer has affected her fiction writing

[00:58:05] Abby shares about her interesting Christmas cozy novella, "Baby It's Cold Outside"

[01:01:08] Abby shares what inspires and motivate her writing. Abby also shares her inspiring life story.

[01:09:33] Abby shares her advice for budding mystery writers

Discover more mystery and thriller authors in the Black Mystery Author Directory.

You can view all my discussions here:

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/reading-zora-neale-hurstons-short-stories/

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/91

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/90

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/87

Learn more at https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/black-mystery-authors/charlotte_carter/

• Voodoo Season
• Hurricane
• Moon

View the books here: www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/black-mystery-authors/jewell-parker-rhodes/

We talk about the town Esme's story is set in a town called Bellamy Bay. In Esme's novel, the family of the sleuth run an apothecary shop. Esme tells us why she selected this profession and how it provides a rich world for her story. Esme tells us why she selected risk management as the profession for her central character Alex. Esme explains why she includes magical elements in her cozy mystery. We learn some interesting information about how perfumes are designed.

Esme share advice for writers on how to make readers taste and smell the items describe in a story. Also, she shares advice for persons who are thinking about writing their own cozy mystery.

You have created a new and wonderful world in Bellamy Bay, can we look forward to seeing more books in this series and if so when?

Basically, this is a tale of a young man going off to the big city to seek its joys and adventure. His challenge to get the attention of women and the advice he received to resolve this problem.

This was a very enjoyable read. Mandolin is the name of the young man who leaves home to go to the big city of Harlem. It is clear that this person is based on a rather famous writer of the Harlem Renaissance. I would spoil it for you but please let me know who you think it is. One other thing that makes this story enjoyable is the way Zora drops in names, places, and jargon of the Harlem Renaissance.

An enjoyable read and it is a demonstration of the creative story telling skills of Zora Neale Hurston.

Support B. Sharise's project by contributing to the Indiegogo campaign.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/conjuring-worlds-an-afrofuturist-textbook/x/5019922#/

A full transcript of this interview is available on my website (www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/75).

In this story, Hurston uses her knowledge of black folklore and black tales of the supernatural, to tell a story of obtaining justice for a broken heart. This story could easily have been an episode Rod Sterling's Night Gallery or the Twilight Zone.

The antagonist of this story has a name that everyone will find familiar. I will not tell you so you can be surprised like I was. I do wonder about the name's history and did the entertainer who used it, get the name from the folklore and literature of the time.

This story is listed as one of the seven unpublished stories in "The Complete Stories" collection. I think that is a shame because I really like the way this story flowed.

One thing I have noticed during this process is the way Hurston paints a picture of the way women are treated. The needs of the women are ignored or openly rejected. Hurston weaves this treatment into her stories narratives, so it is apparent and a part of the world her characters live in. This is terribly similar to the way things are in real life.

One key thing I get from this story is the respect Hurston has for the black people in her story. She shows this by the respect she gives the beliefs of the people even when it is something that the white population would laugh at.

This is a good read and for fans of supernatural stories, this is a story you will want to read.

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/reading-zora-neale-hurstons-short-stories/

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/black-mystery-authors/carter-stephen-l/

We Discussed:

• Nikki's journey as a writer
• Her motivation for writing her short stories and what she wants each reader to feel and experience after reading one of her stories
• Nikki shared her advice for persons who want to write short fiction
• Nikki's latest book "Love and Other Criminal Behavior" and her first book "All Things Violent"

For a full transcript go to: https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/interviews/nikki-dolson-interview/

• The similarities and differences between Sherlock Holmes and his sleuth, Isiah Quintabe (IQ)
• Joe's writing process and motivations
• The growth of his sleuth, "IQ", through the four books in the series
• We learn why his latest book, "Hi Five", was the most difficult book in the series for him to write

View all Joe's books and a full transcript of the interview at https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/69

Join me on my trek through the short stories of Zora Neale Hurston.

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/reading-zora-neale-hurstons-short-stories/

View all the books in the Blades Overstreet series at https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/62

Books in the Vernetta Henderson Series

• Every Reasonable Doubt
• In Firm Pursuit
• Murder on the Down Low
• Attorney-Client Privilege
• Lawful Deception

Books in the Dre Thomas Series

• Buying Time
• Anybody's Daughter
• Abuse of Discretion
• Failure to Protect

You can browse the directory by going to www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/bmad.

Dread Nation and Deathless Divide are set in a post civil war time period where the dead have come alive as zombies (called shamblers). In this world black people just one step out of slavery are dealing with the powers to be are trying hard to hold on to a world that is no longer possible. The story follows the lives of Jane McKeene and Katherine Deveraux, two young black women who are being trained to become attendants. Attendants are black women who are trained to kill shamblers and be the protectors of well off white women.

I enjoyed both of these books and I definitely recommend them. The pacing and depth of the world built by Ms. Ireland is incredible. Jane and Katherine are fantastic characters. The bring the art of killing zombies to a whole new level. I listened to the audiobook version of both books and that experience was fantastic. These stories are real page turners. Justina Ireland presents an alternative history that is very believable.

I want to thank Justina Ireland. It was wonderful talking with her and she shared so much wisdom about the writing process. I can not recommend her books enough. Her ability to present an alternative history in such a compelling way is stunning. This makes the third Justina Ireland book I have read and I enjoyed all of them. You can check out my episode on her first book Vengence Bound here.

Finally, a big thank you to Marci and Ako from the Colored Pages Book Club for joining me. Please check out Marci and Ako's podcast episode featuring this interview. They do a great job of synopsizing the books they read. They are great people and their insights into the books they read are fantastic.

The Hannibal Jones Series include the following books:

• The Troubleshooter
• Blood and Bone
• Collateral Damage
• Damage Goods
• Russian Roulette
• Pyramid Deception
• The Wrong Kind

His Hannibal Jones series is a gritty hard boiled mystery series with a lot of action and intrigue.

Here is the book blurb from the first book in the series:

"Dan Balor, a high powered Washington attorney, buys an apartment building in the heart of the city, hoping to create low income housing for good families. Instead he finds the building occupied by squatters: drug dealers, winos, and hookers intent on staying in place. Police and private investigators are unable to empty the building for use by paying residents. No one seems willing or able to take on this challenge until Balor meets Hannibal Jones. Hannibal soon finds himself up against a local crime boss and his powerful mob connected father. The conflict spreads until Hannibal realizes that his stand against the mob could explode into a full-fledged riot unless he can somehow end it all, without surrendering the building and the neighborhood to the criminals."

Austin Camacho has a stand alone mystery titled "Beyond Blue".

From the back cover:

"Beyond Blue is a mosaic about a privately funded detective agency whose only purpose is to help police officers in trouble. The story follows four of the agency's cases, which overlap and intersect:

• An undercover officer is in danger of really being drawn into a life of crime.

• A crooked lawyer is destroying police careers by making arresting officers appear to have violated criminals' rights.

• A cop's wife accuses him of abusing their daughter.

• A retired policed detective who is in charge of airport security could lose his job because of drugs being smuggled in through JFK International.

Pursuing these cases is a team of unique and intriguing detectives. The agency's director, the enigmatic Paul Goman, sits at the center of the action, pulling the strings to direct a team of unique and intriguing agents to solve their cases and cover each other."

I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Camacho and getting copies of his books signed. You can go to www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/57 to see my picture with Austin Camacho.

Austin Camacho is also editorial director for Intrigue Publishing, a Maryland small press. He is deeply involved with the writing community. He is a past president of the Maryland Writers Association, past Vice President of the Virginia Writers Club, and is an active member of Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers and Sisters in Crime.

If you love a good hard boiled mystery or thriller, you should check out the works of Austin Camacho.

R. Barri Flowers is an award-winning criminologist and bestselling author of more than eighty books, including mystery and thriller fiction, relationship novels, young adult mysteries, and children's books.

You can see all of his books by going to his website www.rbarriflowers.com.

You can also go to his author page in the Black Mystery Author Directory by going to https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/56

A great interview with Barbara Neely conducted by mystery author Kellye Garrett in May 2019.

Today I am featuring the Mystery Writers of America's 2020 Grand Master Award recipient, Barbara Neely. Barbara Neely is the author of the Blanche White mystery series. Her series features Blanche White, a smart and brave black woman who works as a maid who takes on the role of amateur detective to solve murders that occur in the homes she is working in.

Set in a time when the main work that was available for black people and especially black women was to work as domestic servants. Blanche lives in a world where safety and meeting your basic needs is always a challenging trek. Plus, Blanche must deal with other difficult issues and on top of all that, she must help solve a murder. Blanche is the classic amateur detective who is often the smartest person in the room who everyone overlooks and underestimates.

Barbara Neely's four books in this wonderful series will easily feed your need for a good cozy / amateur sleuth mystery. The books in the series are:

1. Blanche on the Lam
2. Blanche Among the Talented Tenth
3. Blanche Cleans Up
4. Blanche Passes Go

Barbara Neely is a lifelong activist. She designed and directed the first community-based corrections facility for women in Pennsylvania and was the director of Women for Economic Justice, a Boston-based women's advocacy organization. She also produced radio programs for Africa News Service and was the host of Commonwealth Journal, an award-winning weekly interview program on the radio station of the University of Massachusetts, Boston.

Ms. Neely also wrote many other short stories that were published in various anthologies and magazines.

I reviewed Blanche on the Lam and I am including a link to that episode here. It was a wonderful read and for audio book fans, all the books in the series are available as audio books.

I am including links to Barbara Neely's publishers, some other interesting articles and a great video where Ms. Neely was at Book World Praque 2012 signing copies of her book Blanch on the Lam that was recently published in Czech. In the video she states that fiction was a good place to do activism and Blanche was the perfect character to help people examine the issues that were important to her. https://youtu.be/62wGFRzYS9s

Sadly, Barbara Neely passed away last week. We lost a great woman and artist, but we are blessed by her works. I am so happy she was able to receive the MWA Award. And true to her spirit, when she heard that she won the award she said: "MWA Grand Master! I hope this doesn't mean I have to relinquish my position as Empress Regnant of the Multiverse."

So, we celebrate the life and work of our Empress Regnant of the Multiverse and creator of the Blanche White mystery series, Barbara Neely.

The books in her series are:

• Pushed Times Chewing Pepper
• Secrets, Spells and Snake Eyes
• Orchids and Omens

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/black-mystery-authors/myra-jolivet/

These seven creators organized and funded this important work.

Wallace Thurman - Novelist & Editor

Langston Hughes - Poet, Playwright, Novelist, Short Story Author, Etc…

Gwendolyn Bennett - Artist, Writer & Journalist

Richard Bruce Nugent - Writer and Painter

Zora Neale Hurston - Writer & Anthropologist

Aaron Douglas - Painter

John Davis - Journalist

While Fire only existed for one issue, it is an important piece of literature fiction because so many of the persons involved went on to become key persons in the Harlem Renaissance. Their works are now considered classics.

Artist Aaron Douglas designed the cover and other incidental art decorations

Richard Bruce contributed drawings that were inserted between stories and poems

Wallace Thurman contributed a short story, "Cordelia the Crude" and an editorial comment at the end titled "Fire Burns"

Zora Neale Hurston contributed a short play, "Color Struck", and the short story, "Sweat".

There is poetry by

• Countee Cullen
• Edward Silvera
• Langston Hughes
• Helene Johnson
• Waring Cuney
• Arna Botemps
• Lewis Alexander

Gwendolyn Bennett contributed a short story titled "Wedding Day, A Story"

Richard Bruce's "Smoke, Lilies and Jade, A Novel, Part 1" is very interesting because of its unique use of punctuation.

Arthur Huff Fauset contributed an essay "Intelligentsia"

You can get a reproduced copy from Amazon

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/black-mystery-authors/karla-fc-holloway/

Karla FC Holloway takes the reader into the fascinating world of 1920 Harlem. The birth of the Jazz Age, the beginnings of a great artistic movement in Harlem and a time filled with very real dangers for black people.

Her detective, Weldon Haynie Thomas is the first "colored" policeman in Harlem. He has to handle a very difficult and tense situation while he works to discover the truth behind the death.

This is definitely a book every mystery lover should add to their list of books to read and I am looking forward to more books by Karla FC Holloway.

Elizabeth lived in Japan where she practiced securities law and founded a company to present African American culture to Japanese audiences. She also learned how to make perfect miso soup. A native of Cleveland, she graduated from Harvard and holds JD and MBA degrees from Stanford.

From the book cover…

Tokyo, the '90s. When Alison Crane quit her environmental law practice and followed her hotshot investment banker boyfriend to Japan, she thought they'd only grow closer. But jobless and broke, Alison sits home alone all day-—and most nights—isolated by culture shock, wobbly language skills, and her boyfriend's ambitions. Desperate for company, she ventures onto the only avenue she has left—the brand-new digital frontier.

Inside the confusing web of cyber chat rooms, Alison is approached by a charming Japanese man, and the two regularly meet online. However, her digital safe haven soon becomes a virtual nightmare when a troll who despises foreigners taunts her with escalating threats of violence. As her predator's attacks intensify, Alison must parlay her legal smarts and budding computer skills to stand her ground, or she'll lose her only source of freedom. And maybe her life...

You can follow Elizabeth Wilkerson by signing up for her newsletter and following her blog. Go to her website: elizabethwilkerson.com

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/black-mystery-authors/elizabeth-wilkerson/

• Provides a good overview of the years before and the years of the Harlem Renaissance
• Very interesting that in the twenty years between 1900 - 1920, only 10 novels were published by black authors.
• The book provides details about the growth of available literature by black writers in the 20's and 30's.
• The role of patronage and access to funding and publishing played is both familiar and interesting. It is interesting that in about 100 years we see another Renaissance in literature but this time it is very different because of the barriers that are broken due to technology.
• Godmother - Charlotte Mason is very interesting. While I can see why her attitude and treatment of these great writers. If it was not for her patronage, we might not have a lot of the works by these great writers.
• This book introduces the reader to a whole world of black writers for the Harlem Renaissance. This is a good jumping off point.
• A large part of the book deals with the history of the writers in the Harlem Renaissance.
• The details of the conflict between Zora and Langston is brief and it is sad that they had these issues over the rights of a play.
• One other thing that is brought up is the way Zora was treated by her fellow writers.
• The story of a certain group of black people trying to define what is acceptable for everyone is repeated. The resentment of Zora's style by certain members of the black literary clique is very similar to the arguments that have occurred in recent past and now.
• It is funny that some of the people critical of Zora were also rebel voices in their own right.
• This book sparked an interest in me to read all of Zora Neale Hurston's books and short stories.

• This story features Mr. Scratch who is enjoying his new skin he has inhabited as he goes to a meeting at the Kretcher Motel. A motel that is the center point for all things dark and terrifying. Where the imposing presence of Sybline manages the front desk. Do not mess with Sybline.
• Mr. Scratch and his lady companion start to enjoy their evening when suddenly they are interrupted by Mr. Rothstein and his golem bodyguard change everything.
• I loved this story. The world that O'Hanlon created drew me in and made me want more. I could love to read a whole novel with stories in this world.

The author David O'Hanlon lives in Arkansas with his two horrible goblins. He generally works in the horror and sci-fi genres, often setting his stories against the backdrop Arkansas' unique folklore, diverse ecology, and assorted trailer parks.

I am building this directory to expand on the great work started by Eleanor Taylor Bland and continued by Frankie Y. Bailey that resulted in Frankie's List on the Sisters in Crime website. This list contains the names of almost 100 black mystery authors along with Asian, Hispanic, Native American and LGBTQ crime fiction authors. This list of diverse authors is a great resource and my inspiration for building my directory.

So, you may ask, why do I need to build a directory when the Sisters in Crime site already has a list. Well, first I think there cannot be too many sources for readers to discover diverse authors. Also, I plan to expand on the list and provide more resources for readers to discover books.

When you go to the Black Mystery Author Directory on, I Found This Great Book, you are presented with three tabs. The first tab lets you browse the authors by presenting a picture of the authors along with the type of mysteries they write. The authors are listed in alphabetical order by last name. By clicking on the authors name or picture you are taken to a post for the author. The post provides a link to the author's website, the type of mysteries they write, a short bio of the author and the covers of the mysteries the author has written. You can click on a book and you will be taken to a page for that book. The page will include information about the book, the book's ISBN number, a Kindle Book preview if it is available and options to purchase the book via Amazon and IndieBound.org. I do use affiliate links for Amazon. If you make a purchase of a book or audio book from the purchase links, I do get a very small affiliate reward from the purchase. This does not affect the price you pay or the money the author receives. I include Indiebound.org to help book lovers who what to support local bookstores. Indiebound.org helps readers find local books stores where they can purchase a book.

The second tab allows you to browse the books by the authors in the directory. I wanted to create a bookstore experience for you. You can browse through all the books cover by cover. You can also browse the books in a particular style of mystery. I also make it very easy to find mysteries where the sleuth is a woman. I will probably expand on these browsing options as I learn about more authors.

The third tab provides information about the directory including the names of authors I plan to add in the future. I will update this section as the directory grows.

This directory will include authors of African descent from all over the world. I am actively seeking authors for Nigeria, Kenya, other countries in Africa and the Caribbean. If you know of an author I should add, please feel free to contact me at curtis@ifoundthisgreatbook.com.

Before her death, Eleanor Taylor Bland wrote 13 books.

1. Dead Time (1992)
2. Slow Burn (1993)
3. Gone Quiet (1994)
4. Done Wrong (1995)
5. Keep Still (1996)
6. See No Evil (1998)
7. Tell No Tales (1999)
8. Scream in Silence (2000)
9. Whispers in the Dark (2001)
10. Windy City Dying (2002)
11. Fatal Remains (2003)
12. A Cold and Silent Dying (2004)
13. A Dark and Deadly Deception (2005)

Eleanor Taylor Bland also edited "Shades of Black: Crime and Mystery Stories by African-American Writers". This anthology is a great place to start on your journey to discover mystery and crime stories written by black people.

Eleanor Taylor Bland Crime Fiction Writers of Color Award

Diverse Authors: Frankie's List

Learn More at:

Charnora Reid post on my website

Charnora Reid's Website

Learn more at:

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/featured-authors/mystery-author-frankie-y-bailey

Frankie Y Bailey's Website

Frankie's List on the Sister's in Crime Website

Learn More at:

https://www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/succeeding-against-the-odds-john-h-johnson

Learn more at www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com

On this episode I share my experience of listening to the audiobook version of 72 Hour Hold by Bebe Moore Campbell.

Pamela D'Pella is the narrator. She has a wonderful voice that captures the mood of the story.

This is the story of Keri Whitmore and her daughter Trina. It starts as Trina is turning 18 and the world is wide and wonderful for her, but a diagnosis of Bi-Polar disorder is about to shake their world apart.

• The challenge of having young adult child with a mental illness
• The challenges faced by a young adult with a mental disorder
• How mental illness is addressed or ignored in the black community
• The challenges faced by family members and person with a mental illness as they try to navigate their way through the healthcare system
• The challenge with other family members who cannot come to grips with the fact that someone they love has a mental illness
• The suspense as Keri takes drastic measures to get help for her daughter that is not within the guidelines prescribed by the health care industry

If you would like to get a better understanding of Bi-Polar Disorder, a good place to start is episode 92 of the Therapy for Black Girls podcasts. Dr. Joy is a licensed Psychologist in Atlanta, Georgia and her goal is to help you become the best possible version of yourself!

• Compelling story
• I cared about the characters
• Bebe Moore Campbell makes you feel every emotion of the mother and the tension she is under constantly
• The narrator's voice is wonderful. Deep, full of expression, just the right pace
• I gained greater insight into the challenges faced by persons with a mental disorder and their family.

I also give a brief update on my two reading challenges and a new directory of Black Mystery Authors on my website (www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com).

• How did I find "The Ballad of Black Tom" by Victor Lavalle?
• Why do I like this book?
• More about Victor Lavalle's Destroyer series?

Click here to read the full show notes

In 2019, besides the 26+ books I will read for the podcast, I plan to participate in two challenges:

The Langston Hughes "Simple" Stories Reading Challenge

The Sherlock Holmes Chronological Reading Challenge

Where can I get a copy and how many are there?

Go to the Fountain Bookstore's web site. They ship books to any state in the US. They have the full line of Chris Ferrie's books. Plus you will support a wonderful bookstore that is dedicated to connecting readers and authors. Let the good folks at the Fountain Bookstore know I sent you. I get no reward off of this except the pleasure of supporting a wonderful bookstore who introduced me to a wonderful series of books and hosted a great author events. That is reward enough.

The Fountain Bookstore

https://www.fountainbookstore.com/

Links to Chris Ferrie's web pages

https://www.sourcebooks.com/baby-university.html

https://csferrie.com/books/

The Amber Tamblyn author event at the Fountain Bookstore

https://www.fountainbookstore.com/event/amber-tamblyn-presents-any-man-special-guest-rekaya-gibson

Let's start with Natasha Anastasia Tarpley's "I Love My Hair". This is an excellent book for a parent of an infant. In this story Keyana's mother tells her all the ways that her hair is special and then Kenyana talks about the way she enjoys her different hair styles. The pictures and the story capture the loving relationship between Kenyana and her mother. This is a very short book that will be a favorite story for a child. The adult reading the story to a child will enjoy it and will love reading it to a child as much as the child will love reading it.

"I Love My Hair" has very thick pages so it can survive a little child's handling and chewing. The watercolor artwork by illustrator E. B. Lewis are wonderful and each picture captures the love and joy expressed in the story.

I love the way this book celebrates the beauty of a black girls' hair. This is an excellent gift for the parent of an infant girl.

The next book is Crystal Swain-Bates "I'm A Big Brother". The story focuses on the new world a young boy enters when his parents bring home his new baby brother. The new big brother tells us all the unique things about his new baby brother. Also, the differences between the baby and the older boy are described. It ends with the new big brother realizing that he will be a great big brother.

This is a useful book for parents of a small child and they have a new baby on the way. The illustrations feature a friendly family of African American, so children will see themselves in this book. I can see a parent using this story to prepare a child for the new role of big brother.

Another book I purchased from Positive Vibes is Margaree King Mitchell's "Uncle Jed's Barbershop is a wonderful story of perseverance, history and family love. The story follows Sarah Jean's beloved Uncle Jedediah and his lifelong desire to own his own barber shop. While telling this story, Margaree Mitchell share the history of the mid 1900's for African American families. This is a wonderful book for young readers because there is so much captured in this short story.

Not only will the reader get a picture of life in the past, you will see how black families worked together to make it through tough times and share the good times. This love is captured in the story and illustrations by James Ransome. Each page and illustration will bring back memories of beloved family members who played key roles in our lives. This is such a wonderful book. Anyone who reads this will be touched by this story of family love.

Finally, I want to talk about Tonya Bolden's book "Maritcha – A Nineteenth-Century American Girl". Ms. Bolden came across a memoir of Maritcha Remond Lyons who was born 1848 in Manhattan New York. This is a fascinating look at the life of a black family through the eyes of Maritcha during this period of history. It is great that it features a view of black life in the 1800's that is different from the life of rural black people in the south.

Tonya Bolden makes use of photos and illustrations from the time period to reinforce the story and make it real. This is a great book to share with a child. You will see the love of this family and perseverance in the face of life shattering tragedy. Tonya Bolden brings this valuable memoir to an audience of young readers and this will encourage further exploration into African American history.

If you are in the area, stop by Positive Vibes and see all the great books and say hi to Brett. He has been committed to connecting African American with products that reflect their culture and history. Go to Brett's site and use the contact form to let him know about a book you want.

6220 Indian River Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23464

(757) 523-1399

www.positivevibesva.com

www.facebook.com/PositiveVibesVA

In this episode I talk about the following:

• What makes a mystery a cozy mystery www.cozy-mystery.com
• Barbara Neely's "Blanche on the Lam"
• V.M. Burns' "The Plot is Murder"
• Frankie's List is a great source to find mystery writers of color Diverse Authors: Frankie's List

Read more on I Found This Great Book

Barbara Neely's Amazon Page

V.M. Burns' Amazon Page

I want to share ten BookTubers I follow. Check them out and I am sure you will be please. Plus once you discover one BookTuber you like you will probably find others who sparks your interest.

• Karen is a very diverse reader who provides great book reviews
• Karen delivers valuable reviews of award winning books
• Hosts a book club via booktube where a book is selected and she holds a discussion via Google HangOuts

• Rincey is a very diverse reader. She consistently finds interesting books by authors of color.
• Her reviews are complete and interesting. She provides a complete picture of the book that helps a reader determine if this is the book for them.
• Rincey co-hosts the "Read or Dead" podcast with Katier McLain. A by-weekly podcast where they discuss mysteries and thrillers.

• Deirdre's reviews are very complete and take in all aspects of the book.
• She speaks from her heart. She will tell you why she likes or dislikes a book
• Deirdre's insights are very valuable in determining if a book is a good choice to all to your reading list.

• A great source for reviews of literary fiction.
• Bree's channel exposes me to a very diverse library of books.
• Bree's reviews are a pleasure to listen to and very rich with information.

• Ashley covers all types of books including children's books and Manga.
• Ashley brings a lot of energy to her videos that inspires you to go read.
• I am so impressed by the number of books Ashley reads.

• Cimone's videos provide insight in the book publishing process.
• Cimone helps readers understand genres and writing techniques.
• Cimone's videos are a great source for both readers and writers.

• Alisha has the most pleasant on-camera presence.
• Alisha covers poetry as well as literature
• Alisha videos with her sister are fun to watch as they talk about the different books they like.

• Deidre reviews coffee table books.
• I love her energy she brings to each video.
• Deidre's reviews are informative and encourage readers to explore the world of coffee table books.

• Njeri focuses on Afrofuturism, Science Fiction and magical Realism.
• Discusses the inclusion or absence of LBGTQ characters.
• Njeri's review system is the most information system I have ever seen.

• Jaz's love for all things books is wonderful.
• Her reviews are very informative and interesting.
• Jaz's video series with her sister about urban fiction changed my view of the genre.

A suspenseful page turner that you will not be able to put down. Mix a secret society of black men, modern day slavery and one man's courage and you have the ingredients use by Dwayne Alexander Smith in "Forty Acres"

I loved reading this book. The pacing, the suspense and the courage to take on the horror of slavery from a totally new point of view made this book such a great read.

In this interview we talk about:

• Dwayne Alexander Smith's background as a writer
• How the idea for this story morphed over time
• How his writer friends though his final idea for the book would not work and how he took this as a challenge
• How the central character (Martin Grey) faces difficult choices throughout the book as he is put into corners and the story takes a turn in an unexpected direction
• Dwayne Alexander Smith explains his process creating a book with a page turner pacing
• We talk about the discussions that book clubs are having about Forty Acres and how some of the views expressed are a little disturbing
• We talk about the use of isolation that is felt by the central character and the courage it takes to stand with integrity in this situation
• How difficult it was to write a particular portion of the book due the horrible reality he had to capture in one scene. How difficult it was to put his mind in a place to write this portion of the book.
• Dwayne Alexander Smith shares some great news about the possibility of a sequel
• We then talk about his new book "The Unkind Hour". His new book that is another page turning thriller.

You can follow Dwayne Alexander Smith on his web site, Facebook page and on Twitter

Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/Dwayne-Alexander-Smith/e/B00L96G4FO/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1529035508&sr=8-1

Web Page: www.writtenbysmith.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/writtenbysmith/

Twitter: twitter.com/writtenbysmith

The novel Vengeance Bound by Justina Ireland is very interesting story of a supernatural struggle that involves the Greek mythological figures of the Furies and one young lady. Set in a modern world, Justina Ireland uses the characters and background story of the Furies to paint a suspenseful and thrilling story.

Cory Graff is a young lady who just wants to be a normal teenager, finish high school, and kill the one person who did her a very great injustice. However, she has these three companions, the Furies, who she must control because they have a habit of killing men who are guilty of evil. How do you stay normal and under the radar when you have a dead body of an abuser at your feet? What happens when the Furies want to hunt, and their pull is so great that you cannot help but go along with them? What happens when you find love, but you have this great secret that would drive anyone away?

I listened to the audiobook version of Vengeance Bound and I enjoyed it. Eve Bianco is the narrator and I think her voice was perfect for this story. Her pacing and voicing of the characters were right on point.

My favorite things about the book are the subtle use of suspense and the contrast between the central character's supernatural struggle and the triteness of high school life.

This is a good read that keeps your attention all the way through the book. Sight warning, if you do not like violence or are sensitive to abusive situations, then this might be a little too much for you. Justina handles this content in a very good way and only uses it when necessary to move the story. This is a good read for people who like magical realism or thrillers.

Justina Ireland is one of the executive editors of FIYAH Literary Magazine. A magazine dedicated to speculative short fiction by black authors. I love this magazine. She also has a new book coming out in April 2018, Dread Nation.

Justina Ireland's Website

1. What do I like to read
2. 1. Mysteries
   2. Science Fiction
   3. Horror
   4. History
   5. Biographies - in particular jazz artists
   6. Literary Fiction
   
   
   1. Always wanted to but did not do
   2. Setting obtainable goals - small steps to climb a mountain
   3. Read at least 50 short stories this year
   4. Read all the Simple stories by Langston Hughes
   5. Read at least 12 books that have been on my To Be Read List for years
   6. Listen to 12 audio books by and about African Americans
   7. Read a graphic novel or series each month
   
   
3. My reading history and my goals for this year
   1. Music on My Mind - Willie The Lion Smith
   2. Langston Hughes - Simple Stories - year long project
   3. Short stories from three mystery anthologies
   4. Short stories from Fiyah Magazine, the Forever Vacancy anthology and Black Girl Magic Lit Magazine
   5. Finish graphic novel series "Destroyer" by Victor LaValle
   6. Finish the audio book Vengeance Bound by Justina Ireland
   
   
4. Where am I starting
   1. YouTuber/BookTuber Denise D. Cooper created this challenge for readers
   2. Find Denise's videos here: https://www.youtube.com/user/Deliciouswisdom
      1. In 2018 read books by African American Authors
      2. Read at least 2 books by African American women
      3. At least one book by an independent author
      4. Try to purchase books from black owned bookstores
      
      
   3. Requirements
   
   
5. Participation in the #BlackOut2018
6. Go to www.ifoundthisgreatbook.com/subscribe to subscribe to the podcast
7. Have a great reading day

Author Kathy Strahs is an innovative author of cookbooks that teach people how to use common items to create wonderful and convenient meals. Kathy shows us how to take that appliance or dish that has been gathering dust and use it to produce some delicious and innovative meals.

• We learn how Kathy Strahs started her blog and its growth into a published cookbook.
• Kathy talks about her first book "The Ultimate Panini Press Cookbook" and how you can create some really interesting dishes that will surprise you.
• We talk about how Kathy was inspired by her use of the common 8 x 8 inch cooking dish to create a new cook book. We also talk about Kathy Strahs' self-publishing journey.
• Kathy's most recent book is a fun book of activities and recipes children and parents can use to take the lemonade stand to a whole new level.
• We finish up by talking about Kathy's publishing company Burnt Cheese Press.

Kathy Strahs' website and social media links

Burnt Cheese Publishing: https://www.burntcheesepress.com/

Twitter: @kathystrahs

Facebook: @burncheesepress

Instagram: kathystrahs

Kathy's Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/Kathy-Strahs/e/B00BKO7828/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1510527652&sr=8-1

Author Kenya Moss-Dyme joins me to discuss her horror short story collections. When I read Kenya's short stories, I was so impressed by her effective use of surprise in her horror stories (Horror with a mean left hook). I had such a great time talking with Kenya and learning about her writing process and discussing her books.

• Kenya shares a bit about the first story she created and how it sparked her interest in writing.
• We explore why Kenya likes the horror genre.
• Kenya tells us about a project she is currently working on and the challenges this novella has presented.
• We talk about the difference between creating short stories and longer works. We look at how the writing process differs for each format.
• Kenya explains why she likes to write about people who bring horror instead of creatures.
• Kenya and I talk about her "mean left hook" she delivers in her stories and the element of surprise.
• "A Good Wife" is Kenya's three book series that has an interesting origin. We talk about how the genre of this series is so different from her horror series.
• We follow up with a brief description of the "The Pulpit Chronicles: Prey for Me". A dark story that is one push away from horror.
• In her story "The Devil Inside" Kenya uses her life experience as the catalyst for this horror story.
• Kenya share a touching story about how she recovered one of her first stories she ever wrote over 30 years ago. This story is included in her short story collection "Mix Tape".
• We wrap up with Kenya telling us how the Facebook group "Colors in Darkness" has affected her writing life.

Kenya's Website: Kenyawrites.com

Kenya's Amazon Author Page: www.amazon.com/Kenya-Moss-Dyme/e/B00JXLJIB4/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1509412355&sr=8-1

Facebook: www.facebook.com/kenya.mossdyme?ref=br_rs

Twitter: twitter.com/KenyaMossDyme

Author Mya Lairis brings a new perspective to paranormal romance and dark fantasy. By telling stories from the viewpoint of characters that are usually in the background or sidelines, Mya brings new energy to story lines that have been around for a long time.

• We talk about the diversity in Mya Lairis' characters
• Mya tells us about her history with paranormal and fantasy and why she is interested in characters that are not usually focused on.
• Mya talks about her novel Love Stoned and the world of Gargoyles
• Mya talks about the realities of what relationships between a paranormal being and a human would be and why she is committed to writing books about relationships between paranormals.
• We do talk about the one exception in Mya's "Challenging the Darkness" series where a model develops a relationship with a Were-Octopus.
• Captured of a Heart is Mya's romantic fantasy work that looks at the relationship between a warrior and a sorcerer. Mya tells some interesting facts about this book.
• We discuss Mya's methodology for building her worlds.
• I ask Mya about one of my favorites "Darkness Bound".
• We talk about the challenges faced by a novel writer when taking on the task of producing a short story.
• We talk about the genesis of the Colors in Darkness group.
• We talk about the book world and the challenges black authors who write in the paranormal and horror genres face.
• We talk about the dangers of flying cars and how people are not ready for that technology.
• We learn about a new work Mya is developing and the challenges of building a very large world in literature.

Website: www.myalairis.com

Amazon Page: www.amazon.com/Mya/e/B0084SKL3Q/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_5?qid=1509311004&sr=8-5

Facebook (Mya's Den): www.facebook.com/MyasDen/

Facebook (Mya Lairis): www.facebook.com/mya.lairis

• The intense emotions that are captured in Loving Among the Dead.
• The motivation behind the creation of "Loving Among the Dead". What Dahlia wanted to explore in this book.
• How the desire for normality and basic human elements will survive even in a world filled with zombies.
• The detailed research required to build a realistic world for the characters.
• We talk about the sequel "One for The Road" and how it expands on the world created in the first book.
• We then talk about La Belle Bête where Dahlia takes the classic Beauty and the Beast story and turns it totally upside down Dahlia DeWinters shares her other works including "Tea and Tomahawks" and "Rum and Redemption".
• Dahlia helps me realize why zombie stories are so depressing for me so much.
• We discuss Dahlia's use of different genres as backgrounds for relationships between people.
• We finish up by discussing the impact of the Colors in Darkness Facebook group.

https://www.amazon.com/Dahlia-DeWinters/e/B00613T2IQ/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1508676198&sr=8-1

Websites:

darkindigohearts.com

bohowriterchick.com

Social Links:

Facebook: @authordahliadewinters

Twitter: @dahliadewinters

Eden Royce creates horror short stories that will have you looking at everyone and everything with a suspicious eye. Eden Royce brings a fresh new voice to the Gothic Horror. As a writer and an editor of anthologies, Eden has an impressive body of work you can explore. Eden has also brought her creativity to the science fiction / fantasy world by taking the supernatural and placing it in the most normal of worlds. It was a great pleasure to talk with Eden Royce.

Interview Highlights

• Eden Royce shares her motivation for writing and in particular the horror genre
• Eden share a very interesting fact about her family history that has provided a rich source of stories that have influence her writing
• We talk about what Gothic Horror is and how it differs from other forms of Horror
• Eden shares why she has favored the short story format for many of her works
• We get a hint about a new project Eden Royce is working on
• Eden paints a picture of the feeling readers will get when they read her short story collections "Spook Lights Vol. 1" & "Spook Lights Vol. 2"
• We shift gears and talk about Eden's science fiction/fantasy collections "Containment Volumes 1 & 2"
• We talk about the central character who is a Devil/Human Hybrid and he works at the power plant
• Eden shares her experience as the editor of the anthology "The Grotesquerie". A collection of 22 horror short stories written by women.
• We discuss the Facebook group "Colors in Darkness". Eden shares why this group was created and how it is helping writers develop their works.
• The story behind creation of the "Forever Vacancy" anthology published by the group is shared.
• Eden shares two of her other stories that have been accepted by Podcastle and FIYAH Magazine
• We learn how people can join the "Colors in Darkness" Facebook group
• Eden share one more great anthology of black women horror authors and poets, "Sycorax's Daughters". You need to get this book just for Eden's short story.

Eden Royce's Links

Website: http://www.edenroyce.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eden.royce

Twitter: @edenroyce

Eden's Amazon Author Page

Author Steven Van Patten takes a new and creative approach to the classic vampire tale in his "Brookwater's Curse" series of books. We also discuss his thriller "Killer Genius".

Interview Highlights

• I explain how I almost miss our interview time
• We talk about Steven's motivation for creating the Brookwater's Curse series
• Steven describes the history of African Americans in the horror genre and how he is changing that in his books
• We talk about how different the life of an African American vampire would be if they lived in the 1800's, 1900's and today
• Steven helps us understand the root cause of the beef between Werewolves and Vampires and how we can draw parallels to today
• The process of developing the extensive world in the Brookwater's Curse is explained
• We switch gears and talk about Steven Van Patten's book "Killer Genius"
• Steven explains what motivated him to create "Killer Genius" and how he brings a new flavor with his novel.
• We discuss the process Steven used to write this story from the viewpoint of the female protagonist
• We learn about Steven's readers reactions to the books and his very special Beta reader
• We talk about the "Colors in Darkness" Facebook group and how the group has affected and help Steven in his writing process

Website: www.laughingblackvampire.com

Steven's Amazon Page

Facebook: Steven Van Patten

Podcast: Beef, Wine and Shenanigans

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SVPThinks

One word best describes the children's books and podcast by author/illustrator Angela Ferrari and that word is FUN! Angela Ferrari brings a level of energy, fun and love to all her projects that is infectious and will bring a smile to young and old. If you are looking for books for young children that will be fun and engaging then you have found the right person. Also check out Angela's new podcast "Story Spectacular". Twice a week Angela will deliver entertaining stories for children that include some real catchy tunes.

• Angela shares her journey from artist to writer and how she came to select children's literature.
• We talk about Angela's books: "Diggers Daily Routine", "An Extraordinary Book!" and "What Do You See?"
• I am a big fan of Digger the Dog
• Angela Ferrari shares the motivation behind each book.
• We talk about the reactions her young readers have had to the books
• Angela is starting a new podcast titled "Story Spectacular" which features many of the characters in her books plus many new ones. "Story Spectacular" is a twice weekly podcast. See the links below.
• We talk about the great tunes Angela has created for her podcast.
• We learn about a cool activity on Angela's site called Quil's Postcards
• Angela shares her motivation for self-publishing her works
• We get a sneak peek at two new books Angela is working on

Angela Ferrari's Amazon Page: www.amazon.com/Angela-Ferrari/e/B0713ZJYZ9/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_book_1

Website: http://storyspectacular.com/

Podcast:

Apple Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/story-spectacular/id1288607152

Google Play: https://play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/Ifl7bpi4kjj7njlrguxh4n6do3a

RSS Feed: http://storyspectacular.libsyn.com/rss

Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/story-spectacular

Soundcloud: http://soundcloud.com/storyspectacular

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkgDHE27MsIcnX8pk9D3LWA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StorySpectacular/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/storytacular

Instagram: http://instagram.com/storytacular

In the moving biography, "Triple Exclam!!!", Dr. Daaim Shabazz captures the life and spirit of Emory Tate. A great black chess player whose legacy lives on in his games and the memories of the people who had the honor to know him. The writing in this book is so great that even if you do not follow chess, you will be captivated by the story of Emory Tate's life. Dr. Daaim Shabazz has produced a book that is informative, entertaining and beautiful.

• Dr. Shabazz shares a little about his background and his growth as a chess player.
• We discuss why Daaim created The Chess Drum website and how it has changed in the sixteen plus years since its creation.
• We follow on to discuss how Emory Tate's chess style and his magnetic personality motivated Dr. Shabazz to write this powerful biography.
• We spend some time discussing Emory Tate's unique, enlightening and captivating method of delivering analysis on chess games.
• In the world of chess there are many styles. Dr. Shabazz explains how Emory Tate's style allowed him to beat over 80 Grandmasters during his chess career.
• A great introduction to the U.S. and International ranking systems is provided and we delve into the challenges Emory Tate faced in his quest to achieve the Grandmaster norm.
• We discuss the legacy of Emory Tate as a player and a coach.
• Dr. Shabazz shares his recommendation for people who are interested in getting into the world of chess.
• Dr. Shabazz shares his plans to write a book chronicling the history of black people in the world of chess.

www.thechessdrum.net

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thechessdrum/

Twitter: @thechessdrum

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/chessdrummer?feature=BF

You can purchase your copy here:

www.thechessdrum.net/blog/2017/03/11/emory-tates-bio-triple-exclam-is-here/

A country going through a massive regime change, a shadowy figure who rules the country, two children of an aristocratic family who have two very different visions for the future, this is just part of the fantastic world Anna Redmond builds in her novel "The Golden Arrow". A story of political and religious intrigue set in a wonderfully detailed fantasy world.

• We discuss how Anna came to write "The Golden Arrow"
• Anna gives a brief description of the story (No Spoilers) Anna shares how she built the rich world of "The Golden Arrow"
• We talk about the feedback she has received from her readers and Anna's plans for a sequel
• We then move on to Anna Redmond's work with Kaitlin Solimine in the creation of HIPPO Reads
• Anna describes the challenge to get exposure for the works published by academics
• Anna describes the barriers people face when trying to read and understand academic articles
• We discuss a staggering statistic concerning who is actual reading academic publications
• Anna provides a detail view of HIPPO Reads' mission and the effect their work is having by exposing the work of academics to change makers in the world.

Hippo Reads: hipporeads.com/

Twitter: @actdelicious

Get your copy of "The Golden Arrow"

Paulette Harper joins me to discuss her first full length novel, "Secret Places Revealed" and her inspiring chronical of her path through the roughest time in her life, "That Was Then, This Is Now, This Broken Vessel Restored". Paulette writes books that bring spiritual water to people in life's deserts. Besides being a multi award winning author, workshop facilitator, speaker and ordained Elder, Paulette is also the owner of Write Now Literary Virtual Book Tours where she helps authors develop and market their books.

Interview Highlights:

• Paulette Harper's writing journey from non-fiction to fiction
• The event in Paulette's life that inspired her to write her books
• How this writing journey was not her original intention but how God had a different plan for her
• We discuss Paulette Harper's first full length novel "Secret Places Revealed"
• Paulette share an interesting story of how the title came about
• We delve in the Paulette's use of tension to create a love story that is a real page turner
• We talk about Paulette's chronical of a trial in her life: That Was Then, This Is Now, This Broken Vessel Restored"
• Paulette discusses the two questions people ask themselves when they are in a low point
• We talk about how "That Was Then, This is Now, This Broken Vessel Restored" has help readers through some very rough moments in their lives
• Paulette briefly describes her other books, the services she provided to help other writers and Write Now Literary Book Tours

https://www.amazon.com/Paulette-Harper/e/B004FEJKCQ/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1

https://www.pauletteharper.com/

http://wnlbooktours.com/

Twitter: @pauletteharper

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5824102.Paulette_Harper

Facebook: authorpauletteharper

Instagram: pauletteharper1

Kenesha Williams is an author, editor and publisher who's every work truly captures the meaning of magic. Kenesha is the publisher of "Black Girl Magic Lit Magazine". A magazine dedicated to showcasing speculative fiction that feature black women as the central character. Like Ms. Williams shares in the interview, the stories in the magazine truly do have "black girls who are magical". Kenesha Williams is also the author of "Do for Love". A magical realism story that features Virginia Bridgeforth, a young lady who is pushed into the role of being a detective thanks to her magical power.

In this interview with Kenesha Williams we discuss the following:

• A little bit about Kenesha's background and how it set the stage for the work she is doing now
• Kenesha's motivation for writing "Do for Love" and what she wanted to explore in this story
• How the story in "Do for Love" illustrates the dramatic difference in the lives of black people today vs black people who lived in the late 40s and early 50s
• Kenesha's interest in the magical realism genre and how this genre helps her create a story that is relatable to more people
• We drift off into a brief discussion of how grandmothers will brag on their grandchildren even from the spirit world
• Kenesha shares a list of African American mystery authors she reads and how Walter Mosley inspires her
• The motivation for the creation of "Black Girl Magic Lit Magazine"
• The need for "Black Girl Magic Lit Magazine" and the process of creating the magazine
• A brief discussion of the speculative fiction genre
• A brief discussion of the five published issues and news about the next issue
• A funny discussion on the relationship black people have with the horror genre
• Kenesha Williams' work with WriteAhead Publishing(www.writeaheadpub.com) and the box sets they are producing
• And so much more…

Kenesha's Websites:

www.keneshawilliams.com

www.blackgirlmagicmag.com

www.writeaheadpub.com

Social Media Links:

Twitter:

@Kenesha_W

@BlkGirlMagicMag

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/blackgirlmagicmag

www.facebook.com/keneshawilliams.writer/

www.facebook.com/writeaheadpub/

Links to purchase Kenesha's book and copies of Black Girl Magic Lit Magazine

Do For Love

Black Girl Magic Lit Magazine

• What is Yoga and what is it is not?
• How are Yoga and running related?
• How Yoga helps runners avoid injuries?
• What is the role of Yoga in providing balance in your physical training?
• How runners of all levels can effectively use this book?

• Why should you think about making your blog content into a book?
• What are the advantages a blogger brings to the table?
• What type of content is most suited for the transition to a book?
• How to build a plan that will make the process of developing a book achievable?
• How is the book structured?
• How can a person reverse engineer the process and develop their book idea by starting a blog?

http://www.sublimelyfit.com/

Beth shares all things Yoga and Fitness

Facebook: http://facebook.com/sublimelyfit

Twitter: https://twitter.com/sublimelyfit

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sublimelyfit

Instagram: http://instagram.com/sublimelyfit

http://bloggertoauthor.com

Here you will find Beth's podcast, free worksheets, online courses and a host of other great resources to take you from blogger to author.

Facebook: http://facebook.com/bloggertoauthor

Twitter: http://twitter.com/bloggertoauthor

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/bloggertoauthor

YouTube: http://youtube.com/channel/UC6t1H_VKQjKGTj8KANWRPmQ

Podcast: (Blogger to Author)

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/blogger-to-author/id1212020532?mt=2

Google Play: https://play.google.com/music/m/Ieqdjjizn72jkimqskogu64urui?t=Blogger_to_Author

Stitcher: http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=133357&refid=stpr

TuneIn: https://beta.tunein.com/radio/Blogger-to-Author-p1013696/

Allyson also writes under the pen name "MiChaune". She has a new book coming out August 29, 2017. "Definition of a Bad Girl" will be Allyson's first urban fiction title. Listen to the interview to hear the inspiration for the title.

Take a moment and listen Allyson share her writing journey and discover her extensive catalog of books and short stories.

http://www.allysonmdeese.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAllyDeese

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AllysonMDeese @AllysonMDeese

Kaitlin Solimine makes use of an interesting technique with footnotes to introduce the voice of the "translator" to "Empire of Glass". By doing this, Kaitlin makes the reading experience more interactive and provides another layer on this fascinating story. Pick up your copy of "Empire of Glass" by Kaitlin Solimine from your local bookstore or use the links below. You will be inspired while you experience a piece of Chinese culture.

Kaitlin Solimine's Website (while you are there, subscribe to her newsletter)

www.kaitlinsolimine.com

Follow Kaitlin here:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solimineauthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LetsGoKato

Purchase your copy here:

Indie Bound: http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781632460554

Amazon: Purchase from Amazon

Check out Hippo Reads

www.hipporeads.com

http://www.talkingwithauthors.com/podcast/kaitlin-solimine/

A Generation of Curses follows the life of Khadesia Hill whose ideal life is disrupted by the ghosts of her past. Set against the back drop of a church that is in the process of changing leadership, Khadesia's past threatens to disrupt her husband chance to lead his father's church and the very foundation of her relationship. A story of family conflict, church life and the need to have faith even when the whole world around you seems to be falling down, Patricia Bridewell's book delivers an inspirational story. Patricia Bridewell shares how this book came about and the process of co-authoring a book.

Patricia is also a short story writer and you can find one of her stories in "Single Mama Dating Drama". Patricia's story "Got My Mojo Working" is one of the stories in this anthology published by Brown Girls Publishing. The anthology features a series of stories with a theme of single ladies trying to get back into the data field. Patricia shares how she enjoyed the process of creating this short story.

"Got My Mojo Working" focuses on the dating lives of Mojo Avery and Laila Parkins. Two single parents who are trying to re-enter the dating game but they find their children have different plans. Patricia Bridewell uses the recording industry as a background for this story. Patricia draws upon her experience when she worked for Motown to give the reader a realistic view in the recording industry. "Got My Mojo Working" grabs your attention from the first paragraph and keeps you turning pages until the end.

www.patriciabridewell.com

www.patriciaannbridewell.wordpress.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/PABridewell

Keith is also the author of two very interesting short stories. In "Non Compos Mentis" Keith uses the form of a legal brief to tell the story of a lawsuit involving a ghost and the estate of a deceased werewolf. In Keith's other short story, "Exodus", a Brooklyn transplant follows his beloved Dodgers to L.A. and then unexpectedly reunites with his boyhood crush.

Purchase from Amazon

Websites:

www.keithfentonmiller.com

www.curiosityquills.com/books/kasper-mutzenmachers-cursed-hat/

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/author.Keith.Fentonmiller/

Twitter:

@KFentonmiller

Maleka and Eric Beal have a wonderful website that is a great resource. Their blog contains information on nutrition, fitness, recipes, health and changing your lifestyle. You can also find out about their coaching services. Join their mailing list to stay up to date.

www.betterchoices.co

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

YouTube

Google Plus

Shequeta Smith's journey from NC State University student to screen writer to comic book creator to founder of Sherocomics is a fascinating and inspiring story. Shequeta shares how her personal experience as a study abroad student in Korea change her view of the world and inspired her to pursue her dream to become a writer. Her writing skills turned towards screenwriting and the story of Ravyen Choi was birth as a screen play. Her script for this story was successful in getting her to the finalist selections for film competitions. Later Shequeta saw the potential to turn Ravyen Choi into a graphic novel. In the interview she share the process of making the Rayven Choi comics and how she uses a diverse team of artists, editors, letterers and colorists from around the globe to produce her books.

Shequeta Smith is also a filmaker. Please check out her work on rayvenchoifilms.com

Shequeta shares her knowledge and inspiration with others through her Shero Talk program. As the founder of Sherocomics, Shequeta is dedicated to the creation of comics and graphic novels that place women as the central character. Providing stories women of all ages can enjoy and share that inspire and entertain. Check out her site sherocomics.com.

The first two books of the Rayven Choi series are available for purchase in digital format from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, iTunes & Comixology. Click the images below to make your purchase now. Also if you want to purchase a hardcopy of the books, you can do so from the Sherocomics website (sherocomics.com/store).

From horror to steampunk, Maurice Broaddus has moved through various genres of literature while telling his stories. "The Voices of Martyrs" contains 12 short stories that look at the role of black people through time and into the future. All while writing in various genres. From Sword and Laser to Steampunk to Afro - Futurism.

With over 50 published short stories and multiple novellas, Maurice Broaddus is making his mark in literature. Listen to the interview and check out his books below.

You can learn more about Maurice Broaddus by going to his web site:

/mauricebroaddus.com/

Facebook: mauricebroaddus

Twitter: @MauriceBroaddus

LaShaunda takes the knowledge she gained from managing the website to develop her book. It started with a blog post that asks authors a series of questions as the first step in developing a promotion schedule .After much prompting from her friends and a desire to dedicate a book to her mother, was motivated to write "Building Online Relationships: One Reader At A Time".

During the interview LaShaunda explains the importance of building your mailing list and how to use it to build the relationships needed to drive book sales. The book is a workbook that is designed to give an author short assignments they can work to address a specific need. Using a friendly and approachable tone, LaShaunda's book converts the intimidating task of book promotion into a series of tasks that are easy to understand and implement. You just need to open the book and get started. As a writer works through the book they will develop a promotion calendar that is tailored to their audience.

LaShaunda also offers promotions services for authors that are tailored for all budgets. She provides personal guidance for authors to help them get their books in front of their audience. Got to her website (www.lashaundahoffman.com) and sign up for her mailing list so you can stay on top of all the great wisdom LaShaunda has.

LaShaunda's Facebook Page

See Ya On The Net - Facebook Group

Cheryl joins us on "Talking with Authors" to discuss the effects of deferring you dreams, the importance of defining the feeling you desire and how the book will guide you through the process of living you dreams and loving your life. Cheryl is no stranger to reaching and achieving dreams. From traveling to all seven continents to finding her perfect mate, Cheryl has used the techniques outlined in her book to help herself and others capture goals that once seemed impossible.

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylmarksyoung/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/cmarks1813

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cmarks1813/

Get your copy today

Nikolas Larum also talks about his first book which is a study guide on "The Blood of Jesus." Nikolas describes how the book provides guidance on how to understand and apply the concept of "The Blood of Jesus" in your daily life. Developed from a teaching service Nikolas did for his church, this book explores all aspects of blood and how they relate to the blood of Jesus.

Finally, Nikolas Larum gives us a preview of his next book, "Wind, Water and Fire. The book will focus on expanding the understanding of the Holy Spirit. Nikolas ensures us that after reading this book you will know how to "hug a spirit." This book is expected to be released in Winter 2017.

Jaynee's book "5 Strategies to Leverage Times of Change and Uncertainty" is a life line for people in transition who are feeling overwhelmed and out of control. Her strategies are tested methods that have worked in her own life and have save her from challenges that would have overcome most people. Jaynee Sasso speaks from a place of knowledge and experience.

Jaynee also discussed her book, "Make Life Work: A Caregivers Inspirational Journal: 30 Days in H.I.M." This journal was created to help those persons who find themselves in the role as care giver. By reading, following the advice in the book and journaling the reader will learn how to be a more effective care giver and how to take care of themselves in one of the most challenging moments of their life. Jaynee Sasso has worked as a care giver for a large part of her life and currently runs a business that provides services to care givers.

Jaynee shares a wonderful piece of wisdom for all caregivers and it is only a sample of the great wisdom in her books. Jaynee Sasso's commitment to helping people in transition comes through in all her endeavors. As a speaker, writer, entrepreneur and coach, Jaynee is commitment to helping people live their best life in spite of the current circumstances.

Anyone listening to this interview with Jaynee Sasso will be inspired, encouraged and wiser.

You can reach Jaynee Sasso via her web site: www.jayneesasso.com

On Facebook: www.facebook.com/jaynee.sasso

On Twitter: twitter.com/JayneeSasso

You can purchase Jaynee's books from Amazon.

Darryl Harvey shares his motivation for the creation of the first book in the Sunflower Series, "I Can Do Anything". He also give us insight into the impact all of the books in the series have had on his readers. Darryl is also a poet and he has published his poetry in book format.

Darryl Harvey is the founder and president of the Chicago Black Authors Network. For the past six years, this group has helped independent authors through the publishing process and they conduct events to help authors get their books in front of potential readers. The group hosts and attend different events throughout the year. They hold their own author lunches in the fall of every year. You can find more information about the Chicago Black Authors Network on their website www.chicagoban.blogspot.com.

Darryl Harvey is also hosting his own event Saturday March 18th. The event will bring twenty African American authors from all over the country to Chicago. Actress Cynda Williams will be the special guest for this event. The event will be held at the East Bank Club, 500 North Kingsbury Street in Chicago, IL. The event will start at noon and go to 5:00 pm. You can get your tickets through eventbrite.com. You can also visit the event's web site www.booksnbrunchgala.com.

You can purchase copies of Darryl Harvey's book through his web site www.sunflowerseries.com.

Terrie shares her history as a hair stylus and the additional businesses she owns. Just listening to the number of business activities Terrie is engaged in, let's you see that she is an innovative and self-motivated person. It was in her salon that she first got prompted to write a book about relationships and dating from a woman's perspective. Terrie L. Branch's creativity and innovation leads her to take on the subject in a very innovate way. This lead to the creation and publishing of her first book "The Game". Taking an innovative approach to structure of the book, Terrie named each chapter after a basketball term. The Game is a fun yet instructional book on the dating process from a woman's perspective.

In the Fiyah Starter books, Ms. Branch collaborated with author Justin Q Young to produce "Playing with Fiyah & Fiyah Starter". One book with two stories. This is a hot one.

Finally, Terrie gives us a preview of her next book will be a suspense / murder book. "Death by Chocolate" sound like a real page turner and we are all looking forward to its release in the spring of 2017.

You can follow Terrie L Branch on Twitter, Facebook and her website. Her books are available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-a-Million and Walmart.

Follow Terrie L Branch

Twitter: @BossladyTerri

Instagram: @author_terrie_l_branch

Facebook: @AuthorTerrieBranch

Website: http://authorterrielbranch.weebly.com/

Angela joins us to discuss her Dream Living Journal and how it integrates into her coaching process. Angela shares her history as a facilitator, executive coach and manager of learning and development organizations. Angela explains how the coaching process works and what people can expect to achieve from the process.

Angela Spears' Dream Living Journal contains a series of questions that provides the guidance to define your dreams and to develop a plan to achieve your dreams. Angela created the Dream Living Journal as a tool for her clients to use during the coaching process. It is a tool that Angela has used for years for herself in her progress towards her dreams. Even if you are not ready to engage in a coaching relationship at this time, the journal can be used to get you started on the path to achieve your dreams.

Angela shares how her coaching process has changed the lives of her clients. Angela's describes how one client made a change in career path that resulted in greater rewards both personal and financial. Angela explains how past patterns influence our vision of what we can do today. She also shares how the use of the journal in conjunction with her coaching have empowered people to move beyond barriers they assumed were impenetrable.

The Dream Living Journal is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. If you are interested in starting a coaching relationship with Angela, you can contact her through her web site (www.dreamlivingcoach.com). Her web site contains information about the coaching process, upcoming events and social media links.

Get your copy of Angela Spears' Dream Living Journal and begin your journey to achieving you dreams.

Order the "Dream Living Journal" on Amazon

Order the "Dream Living Journal" on Barnes & Noble

Today on "Talking With Authors" we speak with the dynamic Ni'cola Mitchell.

Ni'cola Mitchell, Founder of Girls Who Brunch Tour, Best-Selling Author and recently featured in Black Enterprise 2015 as one of the 5-Follow Worthy Bloggers to Watch. She entered the literary scene with one main objective: To Stimulate Your Mind, One Word at a Time. Through her independent publishing company NCM Publishing, Mitchell published numerous titles which have been featured on various best-selling lists throughout the country. Mitchell's distinctive writing talent has led her to become a featured columnist for Urb Society Magazine, a nominee for the 2014 I Am a Diva Literary Awards, and was recognized by University of Nevada Las Vegas, Upward Bound Program as their 2015 Honoree. Mitchell has also received Proclamations for her Philanthropic services through Girls Who Brunch Tour from the Mayor's Office of Charleston, SC, the Mayor's Office of Houston, TX and the Congressional Office of Houston, TX, and a Letter of Recognition from Governor Nathan Deal of the state of Georgia.

Follow Ni'cola Mitchell and purchase her books:

www.nicolacmitchell.com

www.ncmpublishing.com

www.girlswhobrunchtour.com

http://www.fromthepenofnicola.com

Ni'cola's Amazon Page

Rekaya Gibson Amazon Page

The book follows the early life of Dana whose mother mistreats her because her skin is dark. Dana's mother constantly favors her lighter skinned sister. A book that stirs the emotions, makes you think. The book is written from Dana's viewpoint even from birth which makes it very interesting. Mama Don't Like Ugly is available in print, e-book and audio format.

A coloring book that tells the story of a mother explaining to her son how his favorite pie is made. The coloring book contains an English and Spanish version of the story. At the end of the book, there is a Sweet Potato Pie recipe in English and Spanish.

A children's book that tells the story of Kia's quest to find out if there are french-fries in heaven. She ultimately finds out the answer to her question from her grandmother. The book was launched on national french-fry day at french-fry heaven in Jacksonville, Florida.

Fifty-two recipes created from items you can find in Dollar Stores. It is available in print and e-book versions. A great book for the budget conscious or a great gift for the college student in your life.

Rekaya Gibson's first two books tell the story of Ambrosia who uses food to change men into the perfect man. These magical books are set in New Orleans. Rekaya plans to republish the Food Temptress in spring under her publishing company, Gibson Girl Publishing. Follow Rekaya Gibson's blog or social media pages to stay up to date.

Rekaya Gibson's Food Temptress Blog

Gibson Girl Publishing

Follow Rekaya Gibson on Facebook

Follow Rekaya Gibson on Instagram

Follow Rekaya Gibson on Twitter

Welcome to episode 4 of Talking with Authors. My name is Curtis and today we wrap up the interviews I conducted at the Indie Author Day event at the Central Public Library in Virginia Beach. This was a great event and if you have not already done so, listen to the first three episode to hear the first six interviews. The Central Library held a great event and I plan on going to next year's Indie Author Day activities.

Reflecting on the event, I was really impressed by the variety of genres represented by the authors. Indie Authors are writing the stories that people have wanted but a large scale business model could never support. I love the fact that these authors are addressing the desires of various readers who have gone ignored for so long. E-Books and the large online stores have removed the barrier of distribution. Now we face the challenge of getting news of books in front of readers. In my own small way, I want this podcast and my website to be one of the vehicles that brings readers these great independent voices.

In today's episode, we get to hear from two very creative authors. Let's begin by talking with children's book author Thea Lowe. Her innovative book have a strong Christian message, great art work and an engaging story.

Thea Lowe's Amazon Author Page

Thea's Website: www.booksbythea.com

In our next segment, we will talk with Jennifer Milius whose books capture the great adventures of her two cats, Einstein and Moo. Cat lovers and children will love the great artwork and share in the love the author has for Einstein and Moo.

Jennifer Milius Amazon Author Page

Jennifer's Website: www.jennifermilius.com

I want to thank Thea Lowe and Jennifer Milius for talking with me and I would encourage everyone to either buy a book for themselves or as a gift.

Well, this ends our four part series of interviews conducted on Indie Author Day at the Virginia Beach Central Library. I hope you have enjoyed listening to each author. Please continue to come back each week as I bring you more authors. Also, please go to www.talkingwithauthors.com/subscribe to sign up for my mailing list. In January, I will begin publishing a newsletter that will keep you up to date with content on the site and other book news.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to listen to my show and join me next week as we continue "Talking With Authors".

Welcome to episode 3 of Talking With Authors. This is the third in my series of interviews with independent writers at the Indie Author Day event held at the Virginia Beach Central Library on October 8th.

Our first author has two series of books plus a children's book. Let's listen to Lynn Yvonne Moon tells us about her books.

Amazon Author Page

Website: www.lynnyvonnemoon.com

Our next author, Sophia McGregor is the author of Resurrection. It was a real pleasure speaking with Sophia and her book cover caught my eye immediately because it was so creative. Let's listen to Sophia McGregor.

Amazon Author Page

Website: www.sophiamcgregorauthor.com

I hope you are enjoying this series of interviews. It was a great pleasure speaking with Lynn Yyonne Moon and Sophia McGregor. Please see the show notes or go to www.talkingwithauthors.com for links to their Amazon Author pages and their web sites. Buy a copy of their books to read or as a gift for a friend.

Please join me next week for the final set of interviews from the Indie Author Day. Also, please go to www.talkingwithauthors.com/subscribe to subscribe to my mailing list. Beginning in January, I will send out an email newsletter informing you of current and upcoming episodes. I will also bring you news of book festivals, author signings and new publications from independent authors. I promise I will not share your email address or spam you. This is the next step in building a resource for book readers who want to hear from new voices.

Before we begin, I want to encourage everyone to visit and support your local library. Libraries have changed a lot over the last 10 years and you can see this by looking at the innovative programs they are developing to encourage lifelong learning and reading. Your local library is more than a just a place with a lot of books. It is a learning center that provides great opportunities for every community. For example the hosting of Indie Author Day events.

I would also like to encourage all independent authors to check out the indieauthorday.com web site. You can view the web cast that was shared on October 8th and find other Indie Author events being held this year and how you can participate in next year's events. Just click on the "Author Inquiry" link and fill out the contact form.

Vernadine A. Merrick is the author of "And the Walls Came Tumbling Down… The Secret Life of Senator Jack". Her hardcover edition looked fantastic and the cover art and title would make any fan of political intrigue want to pick it up and begin reading. Ms. Merrick's book can be purchased on Amazon in hardback and Kindle edition.

Click here to buy the hard cover edition.

Click here to buy the Kindle edition.

Vernadine A Merrick's Website

YouTube video of Vernadine A. Merrick reading the prologue of her book.

Crystal Walton has authored 6 books in the inspirational romance genre. Her books have great cover art that will intrigue any fan of romance novels. All of her books are available in paperback and Kindle edition. Also, if you go to her website crystal-walton.com, you get access to exclusive bonus scenes and a free e-copy of her devotional "Your Story Matters".

• Arms of Promise
• Write Me Home
• Begin Again
• Eyes Unveiled (Unveiled Series Book 1)
• Light Unshaken (Unveiled Series Book 2)
• Hope Unbroken (Unveiled Series Book 3)

Crystal Walton's Amazon Author Page

Crystal Walton's Website

• "A Guide to Publishing: Things Authors Should Know" – John Koehler
• "Editing Tips to Fire Up Your Fictions" – Crystal Walton
• "Rising Above the Noise: How to Increase Your Sales on Amazon.com" – Chris Kennedy
• A Skype session with A.G. Riddle, author of "The Atlantis Gene"

We also watched a live webcast from indieauthorday.com. It was a very insightful and informative webcast that is good for any author to view. I was so impressed by the diversity of books written by these authors. I was inspired to grab my recording equipment and began conducting short interviews with as many authors as possible. It was wonderful talking with each of the authors I could interview. Their passion for their books and their willingness to take time to share was inspiring. It was at this event that my vision for this site became clear. This site will be a platform to showcase the work of independent and small press authors. The world of publishing is in the process of changing. The barriers that prevented authors for publishing their books have been lowered or destroyed. This means that more books by a wider variety of authors are available. This also means that it is harder for an author to get their book in front of readers. It also means that readers have more choices but many of those choices may never be presented to the reader. "Talking with Authors" will be a bridge between authors and readers. Each week, "Talking with Authors" will bring you interviews with independent and small press authors of all genres. I will also bring you news of book festivals, book signings and any other book related news I can find.

So, let's start off with two interviews I conducted at the Indie Author event. We begin by talking to Ward Howarth, the author of "River City Blues". River City Blues is a historical crime thriller set in Richmond, Virginia during the year of 1944. (7 min 46 sec). Then we follow up with a conversation with James L Hill, the author of "Killer with Three Heads" along with several other books. Mr. Hill is an author who writes in many genres. (12 min 12 sec).

Please share this episode with your book reading friends and subscribe to the podcast so you can receive all future episodes. Please use the links below to purchase a copy of the books by Ward Howarth and James L Hill. I have also included links to their websites and social media pages.

Twitter: @ward_howarth

Instagram: #rivercityblues

Web Site: rockhillpublishing.com

Facebook: @rockhillpublishing

Twitter: @RockHillPub