#AuthorSpotlight: Ro Monique

Good Morning! Today I have the pleasure of introducing you to Author Ro Monique. She is a writer of Urban Romance Fiction & Street Literature. Please welcome her to the blog and be sure to check out her work. Happy Reading!

#WriterWednesday #AuthorSpotlight Secret Places Revealed by @PauletteHarper #ChristianFiction #WomensFiction

Writer Wednesday is a spotlight that consists of an interview & book spotlight on an author's most recent published book. Let's welcome Author Paulette Harper to Vaneka's VIP Literary Services!

Good afternoon Paulette, and thank you for joining us today. Tell us, what's the title of your new book?

Paulette Thank you for spotlighting me on your blog. The title of my book is Secret Places Revealed.

Is Secret Places Revealed a standalone, spin-off, or part of a series?

Paulette Secret Places Revealed is a standalone novel.

What is the main genre & sub genres Secret Places Revealed is classified as.

Paulette Christian Fiction, Romance

Author Spotlight | Breanna De'Shay

About Author Breanna

Breanna De’Shay is a twenty-five year old Louisiana native who loves reading, writing and anything creative. Her favorite thing about a good book is one with a surprise twist. So as an author that's her goal - to hit you with a twist you never imagined was coming. Love stories are a favorite but Breanna De'Shay loves a good read where the villain wins as well. She really love connecting with people so if there's anything different you would like to read about just let her know! Breanna’s currently writing urban fiction, but she has a goal of writing horror in the near future.

The Interview

VIP: Hi Author Breanna, glad to have you here tonight! Tell us a little about yourself? Do you have kids, are you in school, how old are you, etc.?

Breanna: Heyyy! I'm 25 and I have a two year old son. I'm in school for Business. Let's see, I have a boyfriend his name is MJ. I'm from Louisiana and I'm a part of Mercy B Presents.

VIP: How many books have you pen and what are their titles?

Breanna: I have two that are published. A standalone titled, ‘For The Love Of A Hoodlum’ and Part 1 of a series titled, ‘Love On the Run.’

VIP: Can you tell us what ‘For The Love Of A Hoodlum’ is about without giving away the story?

Breanna: It's about a young man by the name of Tyran. He makes his way through life on the wrong side of the road but after a few scares in his life he finds himself second guessing his lifestyle dealing with how he makes his money and his friends and family.

For The Love Of A Hoodlum

VIP: Are experiences in “For The Love Of A Hoodlum” based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

Breanna: It's actually based on my boyfriend. When we first met he told me some of the things he did and literally two days later I got the plot for ‘For the love of A Hoodlum.’ He's definitely my muse and he's the ‘real life’ Basim. He tripped out when he saw his name in the book, lol.

VIP: Can you tell us what “Love On The Run” is about without giving away the story?

Breanna: ‘Love On The Run’ is about a couple by the name of Leaux and Cortez. Leaux is the beauty who believes the love she has with Cortez can stand the test of time while Cortez is just grateful to still have Leaux by his side despite his past mistakes. Self doubt causes some issues to arise and their both left truly showing if their love is as deep as they claim it to be.

Love On The Run

VIP: How did you choose the genre(s) you write in and would you write outside your genre, which ones?

Breanna: I've always been an urban fiction fan but I'm a fan of reading regardless. Besides urban fiction I want to definitely try out horror maybe a little romance but horror definitely.

VIP: What sets you apart from other authors? How are you & your work different?

Breanna: My writing style sets me different and the way my mind thinks. I'm not the average person so I don't make my characters average but I also don't want them too extreme. I hate reading novels and I'm like "that can't happen in real life." I'm regular while still exciting.

Plus, I love twists. All my books will have some kind of twist and unlike other authors I love for the villain to sometimes win. So, sometimes my favorite character will be the one everyone loves to hate.

VIP: Being that you're going to school for business & have a 2yr old son, how do you keep and maintain balance with all that you do and being an author?

Breanna: I just got back into school and it's online so I try to do my work when he's sleeping and I write mostly while I'm at work and over the weekends. It's kind of hard but pressure makes diamonds so I don't worry. It'll pay off.

VIP: What project(s) are you working on now? Any scheduled upcoming releases?

Breanna: ‘Love On The Run 2’ is set to be released next Wednesday (1/24) and Part 1 of a new series (that is a surprise) is set to release on Valentine's Day.

VIP: Where do you see your career as an author in the next five (5) years?

Breanna: In the next five years I plan on being a household name, for fiction & also nonfiction. It's a few nonfiction books I want to write towards young women and girls. A few tales of my own I would like to write to let women know that they aren't alone in the things they go through. I definitely want to touch lives with fiction and nonfiction work.

VIP: Do you listen to music or do you prefer peace & quiet when you are writing? Any specific snacks you like to munch on?

Breanna: Peace and quiet. I wish I could be one of those authors who listen to music but I can't, lol. I have to hear the characters.

I eat mostly gummy candy if I have it, lol, but I'm getting summertime fine so I can visit my babe so I gotta cut that out.

VIP: Which author(s) would you like to write a collaboration with?

Breanna: Hmmmm, that is a tough one. Honestly I don't know. I'm still getting set in my own writing ways and perfecting my craft and what makes my writing say "Breanna De'Shay" without someone reading my name on the cover. So for now I will say no one but down the line who knows.

VIP: Who are your favorite author(s) and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Breanna: Nisa Santiago is one of my all time favorites! I love everything she puts her pen to. She is realistic and makes everything so visual. I also love Kim K she is a great author! Of course I love the authors of Mercy B Presents, we have so much talent! Tiece is really good and Natalie Sade is great. I try to check out everyone's releases.

VIP: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor &/or inspired you to become a writer? Who do you look up to in the publishing industry?

Breanna: Definitely Mercy B! I remember finding her by accident when she was with Jaded Publications and I read every book she put out. It was just crazy watching Mercy blow up like she did.

As far as who inspired me to write, definitely Nisa Santiago, Nikki Turner, Teri Woods, Kiki Swinson. I've been reading way before the Kindle, lol, so whenever I needed to escape I would grab their books and let me mind travel. I just want to give a reader the same feeling they've given me over the years.

VIP: What’s your favorite motivational/inspirational quote?

Breanna: Definitely this one! It's really kind of hard as a new author seeing so many other authors get way more shine than you and those days of watching your books on the chart are nerve wrecking so as I'm writing book four I constantly have to tell myself "Pray. Grind. And be patient." Because I know my time is coming and it's going to catch me by surprise once it does!

VIP: What are you currently reading? Do you read when you're writing your own book or do you wait until you've finished your book to read?

Breanna: I'm currently not reading anything but Author AC Taylor has a new book dropping tomorrow so that's next on my list!

I generally don't read while I write unless it's totally opposite of my subject and I know it is so I'm going to read hers. I learned the hard way about reading while writing, lol: JUST DON'T. It creates a lot of unnecessary doubt in yourself.

   

    -VIP Reply: That's totally understandable! I personally don't think Authors need to read while they are writing their own. I believe it would be confusing, plus what you said: gives you self doubt!

    -Breanna Reply: It's really confusing. The last thing you want to do is use someone else's ideas. Anytime an author says something about reading while writing, I'm like noooo! Especially a new one. Just no. Save yourself the self doubt. Read after yours is sent off:

VIP: Do you have any upcoming scheduled events; such as book signings, Interviews, etc.?

Breanna: As of now no. Most likely after ‘Love On The Run 2’ drops I'll have a giveaway in the Mercy B Presents author group and for my February release I plan on having a really cute giveaway.

I'm always networking and looking for ways to get myself noticed so who knows!

VIP: What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

Breanna: Criticism? Honestly I haven't received much. Mercy will say little tweaks but I know it's out of love.

The best compliment is definitely someone finding me on Facebook and writing on my wall saying how they loved the book. Even just one or two people.

VIP: Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

Breanna: Don't jump at the first publisher. Most popular doesn't always mean best (no shade to anyone because I honestly don't know anything about other publishers nor do I care) but find someone who loves the craft like you do! Don't get discouraged. You could blow up over night or it could take a few books.

Also, don't be around to ask other authors questions. Build relationships with them. I love the Mercy B authors and our group because it's always fun and just upbeat. It's never just about writing only.

And of course BE PATIENT! Believe in yourself. You're your first number one fan so cheer the loudest.

VIP: Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

Breanna: Heyyyy readers! Be on the lookout for ‘Love On The Run 2!’ I hope you enjoy it. Thank you so much for the support.

VIP: It was a pleasure to have you here Breanna! I really appreciate the love & support! Best wishes & much love & success! VIP Supports You!

Breanna: Thank you so much!

Connected With Author Breanna

Instagram
Facebook Author Page
Amazon Profile Page

Author Spotlight | Ni'Kay Rountree

Author Ni'Kay

About Author Ni'Kay

Author Nikki "Ni’Kay" Rountree, a Chesapeake, Virginia native, is the author of I Am She: Woman to Woman,  Cash Rules Everything Around Me and The Cheater’s Wife series. She is a graduate of Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University. Nikki obtained her Doctorate of Education from Nova Southeastern University in Instructional Leadership. She is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated and The Order of the Eastern Star.

Author Ni'Kay has always enjoyed writing and hopes to continue to share her talents with the world. Aside from writing, she loves traveling, and spending time with her husband, Brian and three daughters: Briana, Kimari, and Laniya.

Author NiKay was signed with K.S. Publications in January 2015 under Kiki Swinson Presents. She is now an Indie Author and owner of Flawless Publications.

The Interview

VIP: Hi Author Ni’Kay Rountree, glad to have you here tonight! Tell us a little about yourself? Do you have kids, are you in school, how old are you, etc.?

Ni’Kay: Hello, thanks for having me. I am 42 from Virginia. I am married with 3 daughters. I teach. I was an administrator. I am done with school, I have a Doctorate in Education.

VIP: That's awesome! Being a teacher is something serious, I applaud you! Which publishing house are you signed to?

Ni’Kay: I am indie. I have started to publish under my company, Flawless Publications. I was previously published under K.S. Presents (Kiki Swinson).

VIP: What made you start your own publishing company? Are you accepting submissions at this time?

Ni’Kay: Well, I was indie before signing with K.S. Presents. I decided that I just wanted to take a swing at the Indie thing again. I want to use my company to help other aspiring indie authors to publish independently. So, more like a consultant. This hopefully will help authors put more money in their pockets while continuing to enjoy the art of writing. These are future plans.  Right now I'm still building my brand.

VIP: How many books have you pen and what are their titles?

Ni’Kay: I have three (3). ‘Cash Rules Everything Thing Around Me’ was my first release under K.S. Presents. It will be relaunched Feb 14 as a standalone under my publication. ‘The Cheater's Wife’ Series and my new release is ‘I Am She,’ my collection of poetry.

VIP: Can you tell us about your poetry collection, “I Am She”? What prompt you to publish it?

I Am She

Ni’Kay: It's a book of poetry that took me four years to write. They were in notebooks, on my phone, in my head, on my tablet, on pieces of paper at work, lol. I started writing poetry and my books as a stress reliever… I knew I wasn't going to the gym. They are all about life and things… emotions we as women have gone through or at least can relate to. My hubby encouraged me to make that the first release under Flawless Publications to set the tone.

VIP: Love it! That was an awesome idea by your hubby! Can you tell us what “Cash Rules Everything Around Me” is about without giving away the story? When should we expect it to be Re-released under your company, Flawless Publications?

Cash Rules Everything Around Me

Ni’Kay: It's about a naive young girl who gets caught up and lead astray by the wrong guy. She finds herself in some sticky situations on the road to redemption. When I relaunch it, it will be a standalone; a combination of Part 1 and 2 with the answer to what everyone wants to know… Where in the hell is Antonio? Lol.

VIP: Can you tell us what “The Cheater's Wife” is about without giving away the story?

Ni’Kay: OMG, TCW is my baby!!!! It's about 2 women, having different perspectives of their relationships and cheating. It spins a tale of infidelity and the lengths a woman will go to when she is scorned!

The Cheater's Wife

VIP: How did you choose the genre(s) you write in and would you write outside your genre, which ones?

Ni’Kay: Well, ‘Cash Rules Everything Around Me’ is considered Urban Fiction. That genre chose me. I just kind of wrote and at the end the book was more Urban Fiction than anything else. However, I am more of a Women's Fiction author. I have a book that will be released this year called ‘Killed in Paradise,’ which is mystery and suspense!

VIP: What project(s) are you working on now? Any scheduled upcoming releases?

Ni’Kay: Yes, I will be co-writing two amazing anthologies with some super talented authors that will be released this year. I am co-writing with some amazing authors; I am working with Yushekia Mason on one project and Terri Branch and Anitra Hill on another.The relaunch of ‘Cash Rules Everything Around Me’ comes out Feb 14th. ‘Barely 16’ and the relaunch of ‘The Cheater's Wife’ will also be released this year.

VIP: Where do you see your career as an author in the next five (5) years?

Ni’Kay: I see myself as a household name, as an indie author. I hope to have Flawless Publications as LLC with clients who I consult to help them with their publishing needs.

VIP: Do you listen to music or do you prefer peace & quiet when you are writing? Any specific snacks you like to munch on?

Ni’Kay: I prefer peace and quiet. I like gummy worms and pink moscato.

VIP: Which author(s) would you like to write a collaboration with?

Ni’Kay: Boy, a lot of people! Terri Branch, Anitra Hill, Xyla Turner, Yushekia Mason, Pattie Doss, and there's many more I could name.

VIP: Who are your favorite author(s) and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Ni’Kay: Kiki Swinson, Terri McMillan, Sistahs Souljah and many more. I just love the realness behind their work and stories. The Coldest Winter Ever was one of the best books ever!

VIP: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor &/or inspired you to become a writer? Who do you look up to in the publishing industry?

Ni’Kay: Kiki Swinson inspired me to write after reading The Candy Shop! Right now I'm learning from all of the new authors I've networked with.

VIP: What’s your favorite motivational/inspirational quote?

Ni’Kay: I like the T.D. Jakes saying, ‘If you're a giraffe, you can't explain yourself to a turtle!’

VIP: What are you currently reading? Do you read when you're writing your own book or do you wait until you've finished your book to read?

Ni’Kay: Right now I'm not reading. I try not to read while I'm writing.

VIP: Do you have any upcoming scheduled events; such as book signings, Interviews, etc.?

Ni’Kay: I will be attending the Sistas on Lit Book event in April.

VIP: What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

Ni’Kay: One person said my book.was too short and all over the place. That was said about The Cheater's Wife.I've had a lot of 4 and 5 stars where people said they loved the story.

VIP: You stated that 'I've had a lot of 4 and 5 stars where people said they loved the story.' I don't understand how or why readers rate a book with a 3 or 4 star rating but say that it was excellent or that they loved it. Why give it a lower Star Rating without explaining why?

Ni’Kay: I was told by a veteran in the game that sometimes people read books in genres that they don't really like and then rate them as such. If you don't like Urban Fiction, why read it and rate it a 3? Or, why say it's good and rate it a 3? People don't understand the importance of reviews to authors. If it's an honest review, I’m big girl enough to take it and learn from it. But BS & Hater Reviews… people can keep. You know there are people who post bogus reviews like crabs in a pot.

VIP: Do you produce any swag available for Readers, such as bookmarks, mugs, tees, notebooks, pens/pencils, etc.?

Ni’Kay: Yes, bookmarks. I just started a Tee (T-Shirts) business so there will be a lot coming starting in February/March -mugs, plates, tees, and hats.

VIP: What sets you apart from other authors? How are you & your work different?

Ni’Kay: Well, I am who I am. What you see is what you get! I am all about empowering others. I hate that ‘Willie Lynch’ mentality! My books are a reflection of me. I write about what I know, have experienced or seen.

VIP: Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

Ni’Kay: Yes, Keep your head high! Don't stop dreaming. We often talk about our dreams, but don't pursue them! Do what you need to do to make them happen. Don't listen to the naysayers!

VIP: Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

Ni’Kay: I just want to thank everyone for their support. I want everyone to continue to ride with me. There are some great things in the works!

VIP: It was a pleasure to have you here Ni’Kay! I really appreciate the love & support! Best wishes & much love & success! VIP Supports You!

Ni'Kay: Vaneka Miles, Thank you for having me. I loved the questions. I would like to give away five (5) ‘I Am She’ eBooks via Smashwords to the first 5 people that drop their email! Love you guys. Thanks for all the support!

VIP: Awesome! Thank you Ni’Kay and congratulations to Nicole Howard! She received an eBook copy of ‘I Am She’ from Ni’Kay!

Connected With Author Ni'Kay

Website

Twitter

Instagram

Facebook Author Page

Purchase all her books here.

The "tea" with Author Rikenya Hunter

Author's Spotlight

 

Meet Rikenya Hunter! She is currently signed with Ambiance Books and is the author of "Hustle Hard." I had the honor of chatting it up with her. Read the interview below and make sure you one-click her new book!

Rikenya Hunter, born in Louisville Kentucky, writes from a young adult’s point of view. Rikenya has always had a passion for writing and storytelling and has been keeping a journal of her own life since the age of eight. She has a unique way of seeing life from her character's eyes, leading you along the path as a participant instead of as an observer. Rikenya currently resides in Jacksonville Florida, with her high-school sweetheart and their two daughters. She's currently working on new material and working towards earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

1. Could you tell us a little about yourself? I’m twenty-six years old, a Libra. I’m very creative, silly and sweet with a huge heart. I’m always laughing. I’m a mom to two daughters, ages four and three. I’m newly engaged to my high-school sweetheart of eight years. 

2. When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book? What inspired you? When I was little, my siblings and I would create false news stories and record them as if we were news anchors. Around eighth grade, I started keeping a journal up until I turned twenty-one. A few years later, I just thought I would write a book in my spare time since it had always been a hobby. Now I’m signed and published! 

3. Do you have a specific writing style? Do you work with an outline, or just write? I honestly don’t have a specific writing style. I just write. I get an idea, freestyle and weave it altogether. 

4. How did you come up with the title for this novel? I started writing this novel and would always throw the words “Hustle Hard” throughout the story so I felt it would fit the title perfectly. 

5. Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? The message I want readers to grasp in Hustle Hard is that everybody you see in life is going through something. Never let your problems get in the way of your goals. Hustle Hard to achieve your aspirations and dreams. J 

6. Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? In this particular book, it’s all fiction. In some of my other novels, they’re based off some true events of my personal life, but as for Hustle Hard, it’s all fiction. 

7. If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? Niyah Moore is my mentor! She’s been amazing and I admire her so much. She actually wants to see you succeed, learn and grow. I’m grateful to be a part of her team. 

8. Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work? I wouldn’t say I have a favorite author, I like many different authors. There’s way too many to name!  

9. Who designed the book cover for this novel? Brittani Williams. She’s dope! 

10. What was the hardest part of writing your novel? This novel actually came pretty easy. 

11. Do you have a day job or are you a full time author? I’m in school full-time. I attend classes online. I’m aiming towards my bachelors in Business Administration. I’m a full-time stay-at-home mother too. I wear many hats. J 

12. What book(s) are you reading now? Between writing right now, I’ve downloaded many books, but I haven’t had enough time to actually sit down and read them. The last book I had read was by Joy Jackson called Rise of a Coke Queen. Cop that! It’s a page turner. 

13. How did you choose the genre you write in and would you write outside your genre? Growing up in high school, all I read was Urban Fiction. When I received my first Kindle, I read nothing, but Urban Fiction. I absolutely love the genre.  Maybe in the future I could explore other genres, but for right now, I’m sticking to Urban Fiction. J 

14. Do you ever experience writer’s block? Oh my goodness, I do. It’s the worse! When I experience writer’s block, I generally take a few days off from writing to clear my head and that seems to work for me. 

15. Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult? I loved Niyah Moore and Lashonda De’Vaughn. When I purchased my first Kindle, they were the first authors I read. 

16. If you had to go back and do it all over, is there any aspect of your novel or getting it published that you would change? I wouldn’t change anything. I’m grateful. 

17. How do you market your work? What avenues have you found to work best for your genre? I use social media to market my work. Everyone seems to have a social media account. It seems when you share something online, it goes viral quickly. Technology is great for networking. 

18. Have you written a book you love that you have not been able to get published? I’m currently working on two books that aren’t published yet. They’re coming real soon though! 

19. What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why? My favorite chapter would be the last chapter of the book. Koko went through a lot, but she didn’t let that discourage her. 

20. What project are you working on now? Any scheduled upcoming releases? I’m working on a standalone book now. It’s almost completed, but the title is still being worked out. I’m also working on collaboration with another talented author. It’s hot! 

21. Can you tell us about your upcoming releases? I have three books that have already been sent off to the editor. I’m working on a standalone book and collaboration with another talented author. I can’t wait to share it with the world! 

22. What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment? Hmm, I haven’t received tough criticism. I genuinely received a lot of support and love. My biggest compliment I’ve received is readers thanking me for giving them standalone novels. I’m grateful for all feedback, negative or positive. It helps me grow. 

23. Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers? My advice to aspiring writers would be to take your time and never give up! Writing a book takes patience. Don’t rush it! 

24. Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans? I deeply thank all my fans and readers for all the love and support. I truly appreciate it! Look out for some new material coming soon! God bless.

Contact Rikenya

Website | Amazon Author's Page | Goodreads | Facebook Fan Page | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Rikenya's Books

Hustle Hard

Publication Date: January 26, 2015

Publisher: Ambience Books

Unlucky in Love

Publication Date: January 5, 2015

The Awful Truth 2

Publication Date: January 3, 2014

Publisher: Rikenya Renee Publications

Megan & Natalie

Publication Date: December 17, 2013

Publisher: Rikenya Renee Publications

The Awful Truth

Publication Date: December 17, 2013

Publisher: Rikenya Renee Publications