#LiteraryStardom Chatting with Tabitha Sharpe, Your Next Fav #Author @rainejupiter

Literary Stardom is a spotlight for 'New Authors' that has 5 or less books under their belt. This new feature is targeted to highlight new authors because many new authors are often overlooked and readers don’t want to take a chance on purchasing a book by someone ‘new.’ However, many readers are missing out because these new authors have a lot of fire spitting from their pen! Some of you seem to forget that your favorite author was once new & you took a chance with them. So, my message is to stop overlooking these talented authors and give them a chance! Our next Literary Star is Tabitha Sharpe.

Born and raised in Nashville Tennessee, Tabitha Sharpe always had bigger dreams than what the country music capital of the USA said she should have. Her writing journey began as a young child desperate to find solace after losing her father. That peace finding journey turned into a hobby. That hobby lead her to writing for her high school and college newspapers. She fell in love with journalism and it jump started her into a career. On August 24, 2015, Tabitha released her first fictional novel, ‘Behind Our Husbands' Lies.’ In 2016, she busted out of the literary gate with her second full length novel, ‘Unhinged.’ Though she is a new face to the literary world, she is a force to be reckoned with her two back to back page turning novels.

Chatting with Tabitha

I had the honor of sitting down & chatting with Tabitha about her literary career. Tune in to hear what she had to say.

Can you please tell us a little about yourself?

Yes. I'm a newlywed, mother and writing fool. Outside of writing, I love to read, of course and crotchet. I'm in love with the hit TV series ‘The Vampire Diaries’ and ‘The Originals,’ so you can always catch me in front of the screen on Fridays.

Your publisher is Diamond M'Press Publications. Why did you decide to sign with them?

Well, I love Dominique. I love the way she moves and how ambitious she is. Our goals line up together and we get along great. She gives me the extra push and creative structure I need to complete my projects.

Who is your targeted audience and what message are you trying to relay in your writing?

I would say my targeted audience is always women, mothers, wives and grandmothers. Overall, while entertaining, I'm always trying to remind women of something. It might be that we aren't all perfect, sometimes the message is logic over love. But the audience is usually pretty much the same.

With thousands of books being released each day and new authors steady emerging, how are you going to stand out? Why should readers give your book(s) a try versus others in the same genre?

Readers should try me because I brand myself. I actually take the time to interact, to fall in love with my readers and give them a chance to fall in love with me. Also, I'm bringing back the truth to literature. It's our job to entertain, but our biggest job is to network and market. How can you do that if you're being a false character?

If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver. I read that book in high school and I knew I was in love with writing. Since then, I've always thought damn, if I could have written this book I know I would be a legend. I don't want to be rich. I want to be an icon, a legend.

I'm sure you're a reader as well, who are some of your favorite authors and what's on your ‘To Be Read’ List?

Oh yes, I love me some reading. I am a big science fiction freak, so Stephen King, James Patterson, P.C. Cast, Ally Thomas. Right now, I don't have a TBR list. I'm working on finding some hot material to read.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer and how long has it been since you published your first book?

I am a full time writer. It has almost been a year. In August, my first book will be a year old.

What inspired you to become a writer?

Everything inspired me to become a writer. My main reason for writing was my cousin. She gave me a diary a few years after my father died because I was rebelling, and was just becoming evil. I had nothing left inside of me and she wanted me to find some kind of solace in writing down my pain, my memories, my happiness and all of that. Little did she know that hobby, would turn into my career.

So tell us, what books have you written?

So far, I have Behind Our Husbands Lies and Unhinged.

What genre is Unhinged and why did you choose to write in that genre?

Unhinged is a mystery novel. I've always loved solving mysteries, and riddles. I thought it would be fun to try one out.

Give us an insight into your main character(s). What does he/she do that is so special?

Well, Lilly is the main character. This book is literally centered around her. She is the lifeline of this book. She is special because she's an African American, multiple disorder having, secretary for a high school, murdering woman who still believes she deserves redemption.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from Unhinged?

Kimberly Elise. She is not as good looking as I'd like, but I know she could play the crazy parts well.

How do you connect and interact with readers?

I'm always talking with people. I like to find fun things for me to do with my readers or that my readers can participate in. Also, I just keep it honest. I don't mind showing them my life and I try to make them feel like they are a part of it.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

The hardest thing is momentum and confidence. Just trying to outdo yourself sometimes is hard. I always read too much into everything. I'm always worried something will be too slow, or not enough.

Do you think that giving away books for free works? Why or why not?

I guess it depends on what you're trying to achieve by sending out the free books. Readers hardly ever do reviews...so if you give out free books do it for exposure. Nothing else. (lol)

Why do you feel that you will be reader’s next ‘favorite author’?

Because I'm not trying to impress anyone. I write for me and I still have the passion for it. I don't care about the money. I haven't seen a penny yet, and I'm still writing. So I would hope my honesty and integrity would motivate them to want to pick up one of my books.

Where do you see yourself in your career as a writer in 5 years?

I honestly see myself on a book tour with my science fiction novels.

Based off what you’ve learned in your writing career, what advice would you give to a new and emerging author about the publishing industry?

Everything that glitters isn’t gold. If you're a leader, don't be afraid to lead yourself into greatness. All you need is a little support and sometimes, that support can come from you.

How do you think the publishing industry will be in the future?

I think the Facebook authors will die out.

What can readers expect from you next?

My next novel I'm releasing is titled, ‘Homicide at Studio 1.’ It will be an amazing murder mystery.

Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.

Unhinged

Lilly is a woman constantly on the run. Battling inner demons while hiding from the deadly consequences of her past mistakes, she has vowed to give up her obsession with wanting to be loved. All that changes when she meets Malachi. He is perfect in every way, and Lilly thinks she can finally have her happily ever after. But some secrets refuse to stay buried, and all that Lilly has been running from is about to catch up with her.

Their love is put to the ultimate test as destruction, lust, and even murder threaten to rip them apart. Can love really conquer the brutal secrets that Lilly has desperately tried to conceal? Or will her time finally run out?

Genre African American Women’s Fiction, African American Urban Fiction, Mystery & Suspense
Publisher G Street Chronicles
Release Date January 21, 2016
Print Length 159 pages
Purchase Price $1, Free with Kindle Unlimited (Kindle eBook); $16 (Paperback)

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Thanks for stopping by! Be sure to check out Tabitha Sharpe new release! Leave a comment below to let Tabitha know what you think, if you have any questions & if you will be purchasing this hot novel! If you loved this post & want to be notified of new posts, subscribe to my blog! Also, subscribe to our mailing list. 

Until next time ....stay Blessed & Read!

#LiteraryStardom Chatting with Keisha Simpson-Baker, Your Next Fav #Author

Literary Stardom is a spotlight for 'New Authors' that has 5 or less books under their belt. This new feature is targeted to highlight new authors because many new authors are often overlooked and readers don’t want to take a chance on purchasing a book by someone ‘new.’ However, many readers are missing out because these new authors have a lot of fire spitting from their pen! Some of you seem to forget that your favorite author was once new & you took a chance with them. So, my message is to stop overlooking these talented authors and give them a chance! Our 2nd Literary Star is Keisha Simpson-Baker.

Newly released author, Keisha Simpson-Baker, is originally from Compton, CA, and currently resides in Los Angeles, CA. Her hometown knowledge of the inner city of Los Angeles is reflected in her writing. Keisha also spent time living in Wisconsin where she attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Other than writing, Keisha enjoys spending time with family, cooking and baking.

Chatting with Keisha Simpson-Baker

I had the honor of sitting down & chatting with Keisha about her literary career. Tune in to hear what she had to say.

Can you please tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Keisha Baker and I’m originally from Compton, CA. I still live in the Los Angeles area with my son and husband. I enjoy reading, writing, traveling and spending time with my family.

Your publisher is Pleasure Principle Publications. Why did you decide to sign with them?

I signed with Pleasure Principal Publishing because I liked the fact that it is a black owned company and deals specifically with urban fiction. I felt like they would be best to market my specific book. They specialize in online kindle versions of books and I’ve had quite a bit of success in that area. 

Who is your targeted audience and what message are you trying to relay in your writing?

My targeted audience is African American young adult/new adult. I am trying to tell a great entertaining yet realistic story that people can relate to.

With thousands of books being released each day and new authors steady emerging, how are you going to stand out? Why should readers give your book(s) a try versus others in the same genre?

I think readers will really enjoy the story I’m telling mainly because the main character Imani is so relatable. She’s the type of girl that we all know and love, and has the timeless tale of a high school relationship. I really hope readers give me (and Imani) a shot!

If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?

I would have loved to been responsible of “Roll of Thunder: Hear my Cry” by Mildred Taylor. It is a wonderful piece of historical fiction, and one of the first books of that genre that I’ve read as a child. That story has stuck with me for many years.

I'm sure you're a reader as well, who are some of your favorite authors and what's on your ‘To Be Read’ List?

My favorite authors are Sister Soulja, and Lisa See. I always love a great historical fiction story so that is what grabs my attention and what is on my “to be read” list.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer and how long has it been since you published your first book?

I am a part time writer and I published my first and only book in January 2016. I am working on completing my second hopefully by this summer.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I absolutely love to read but this past year I had been on a lull on finding great stories, so I said to myself, “you know what I’ll write the type of book I want to read,” and I did just that.

So tell us, what books have you written?

The book I have written is 'A Compton Love Story.'

What genre is ‘A Compton Love Story’ and why did you choose to write in that genre?

It’s an urban fiction, coming of age story. I’m not yet 30 years old so it’s easy for me to imagine a coming into adulthood situation. I also lived and grew up in a predominately black urban environment so there’s a lot that I can draw upon.

Give us an insight into your main character(s). What does he/she do that is so special?

Imani is a high school senior from Compton, California, and she's on the fast track to success. She has everything she thought she ever wanted until she meets and falls hard for a young man, Braxton Carter. I think the readers will love going through Imani’s story and seeing the decisions that she makes while her relationship progresses.

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from ‘A Compton Love Story’?

An actress I see playing the lead character would be Yara Shahidi.

How do you connect and interact with readers?

I have an active Facebook author page “Keisha Baker.” I also respond to email Keisha.simpson@yahoo.com

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

The editing was hard. Constantly re-reading and stressing on every sentence was hard- especially with the dialogue because it’s something that has to be realistic. I was constantly questioning myself, “Is that something a 17 year old girl would say?”

Do you think that giving away books for free works? Why or why not?

It does help to start off a writing career, it gets your name out there and will leave people wanting more.

Why do you feel that you will be reader’s next ‘favorite author’?

I hope to produce entertaining reading material for a black audience. I hope that my writings fill a void that I had felt when I first started writing. I like that my work is current and fresh and takes into account a lot of today’s social media and technology issues into the storyline which is something you won’t get from earlier writings.

Where do you see yourself in your career as a writer in 5 years?

I hope that I continue to produce great quality stories that my readers love, but I also hope to cross over into historical fiction which is my favorite choice of reading

Based off what you’ve learned in your writing career, what advice would you give to a new and emerging author about the publishing industry?

I would say to write the story you want to tell and not to give in too much to what publishers want. You’ll find your audience. I also say look for the small independent publishers that specialize in your specific genre. My publisher Pleasure Principle Publications has been terrific in helping me navigate through this world.

How do you think the publishing industry will be in the future?

I think the publishing industry will be much more directed by the people telling publishers what they want and having more interaction with publishers.

What can readers expect from you next?

The next book will be a continuation with the characters from my first book. They’ll face new challenges through their lives and work through them.

Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.

Imani and Braxton are a young couple from Compton, California simply trying to make it work. College bound and both from loving homes, they make decisions that completely alter the course of their lives and struggle to keep things afloat.

A Compton Love Story: Imani and Braxton

Imani is a high school senior from Compton, California, and she's on the fast track to success. She has it all; the grades, good looks, family and friends that love and care for her. She has everything she thought she ever wanted until she meets and falls hard for a young man, Braxton Carter.

Her excitement of having her first real boyfriend is short lived after Braxton's ex-fling Kayla comes to surface and publicly announces her displeasure. Even worse is when Imani finds that Braxton's family doesn't care for her, and her own mother warns her about taking their teenage relationship so seriously. The adversity seems to bring couple closer together instead of tearing them apart.

As their relationship progresses, Imani and Braxton find themselves in a very difficult situation. They have to go against the people they love the most in order to do what they feel is the right decision for their lives.

Genre African American Urban Fiction, African American Romance

Publisher Pleasure Principle Publications

Release Date January 18, 2016

Print Length 172 pages

Purchase Price $1, Free with Kindle Unlimited (Kindle eBook) or $10 (Paperback)

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Thanks for stopping by! Be sure to check out Keisha Simpson-Baker’s new release! Leave a comment below to let Keisha know what you think, if you have any questions & if you will be purchasing this hot novel! If you loved this post & want to be notified of new posts, subscribe to my blog! Also, subscribe to our mailinglist.

Until next time ....stay Blessed & Read!

#LiteraryStardom Mizz Butterfly Your Next Favorite Author

Literary Stardom is a spotlight for 'New Authors' that has 5 or less books under their belt. This new feature is targeted to highlight new authors because many new authors are often overlooked and readers don’t want to take a chance on purchasing a book by someone ‘new.’ However, many readers are missing out because these new authors have a lot of fire spitting from their pen! Some of you seem to forget that your favorite author was once new & you took a chance with them. So, my message is to stop overlooking these talented authors and give them a chance! Please welcome our first Literary Star, Mizz Butterfly.

Mizz Butterfly is a 29 year old new urban fiction writer from York, Alabama, who currently resides in Tuscaloosa. She has had a love for writing since her high school days and as a result, majored in English in college. Writing has become a passion for Mizz Butterfly.  It takes her away from all the stressors and troubles of the world. Mizz Butterfly is currently working on the sequel to her novel.

Chatting with Mizz Butterfly

I had the honor of sitting down & chatting with Mizz Butterfly about her literary career. Tune in to hear what she had to say.

Can you please tell us a little about yourself?

I’m Author Mizz Butterfly and I’m 29 years old. Originally from York, Al. I’m not married. No kids of my own but treat my nieces and nephews like my own. I’ve loved to write since High School. I was the girl that wrote everyone’s love letters.

Your publisher is Natisha Raynor Presents. Why did you decide to sign with them?

When I met Natisha she was just starting her company. I was the first author that would be signed to her. She told me how she was just starting out and would understand if I wanted a more established publisher, but something about her stuck out. I could tell she was passionate about her company. She is very sweet and understanding.

Who is your targeted audience and what message are you trying to relay in your writing?

I would say readers who are at least in their 20s and up. I try to at least show them that despite what’s going on or has happened in your life, you can still move forward and accomplish your dreams.

With thousands of books being released each day and new authors steady emerging, how are you going to stand out? Why should readers give your book(s) a try versus others in the same genre?

I try to bring awareness to a different cause in each one of my books. Even though they are entertaining and have drama, there is a message in each one. I think that is something that not many authors do.

If you could have been the original author of any book, what would it have been and why?

Wow that’s a tough one. I would have to say the Coldest Winter Ever. I hated that Winter went to jail. I would have had her change her life around.

I'm sure you're a reader as well, who are some of your favorite authors and what's on your ‘To Be Read’ List?

Coco Amoure, Kim Kaye, Mizz Kiki, of course Natisha Raynor. There is a friend of mine A. N. Drews who is coming out with a book soon that I am definitely going to check out.

Are you a full-time or part-time writer and how long has it been since you published your first book?

Part time. I published my first book in 2015.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I’ve loved writing since I was in high school. I did some promoting for Jerrice Owens and he challenged me to write a story. That’s how it all began.

So tell us, what books have you written?

I’ve written If It Ain’t One Thing It’s Another 1 & 2 and I also have, When S#!t Gets Real. I am currently working on the second part of it.

What genre(s) are they and why did you choose to write in those genre(s)?

All my books are urban fiction. I write books that I would want to read myself.

Give us an insight into your main character(s). What does he/she do that is so special?

All of my main characters have some type of traumatic experience(s). Despite the obstacles against them, they rise above everything and continue to push forward. 

Which actor/actress would you like to see playing the lead character from your most recent book?

I would love for Yaya Dacosta to play Kimori in my latest book.

How do you connect and interact with readers?

Through Facebook and Instagram.

What was the hardest thing about writing your latest book?

Getting my main character through all the drama that’s going on in her life.

Do you think that giving away books for free works? Why or why not?

Sometimes. It helps to get your name out there and inspire people to buy more of your books. However, sometimes it doesn’t work.

Why do you feel that you will be reader’s next ‘favorite author’?

Because my books are not only entertaining, but you learn something from them.

Where do you see yourself in your career as a writer in 5 years?

Hopefully on the top of the charts. I want to have grown a lot as a writer.

Based off what you’ve learned in your writing career, what advice would you give to a new and emerging author about the publishing industry?

Don’t let anyone change you. Stay true to who you are.

How do you think the publishing industry will be in the future?

With so many new authors coming out I think it will expand and be better.

What can readers expect from you next?

I’m working on the second part to When S#!t Gets Real and then looking to start something new afterwards.

Is there anything else you would like to add that I haven’t included?

I hope everyone will take a chance on my work. Readers will not be disappointed.

Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedule to take part in this interview.

Just because you grow up having everything you could ever want doesn't mean you won't have problems. It's always someone out there hiding in the shadows trying to take everything you have.

If It Ain’t One Thing, It’s Another

Despite growing up without her mother, Gizelle Williams still had a wonderful life. Her father has already given her everything she could want and then some. But just when she thinks that life can't get any better, a series of events change her life so quickly that she didn't see it coming. For the first time in her life, she is about to find out what the word DRAMA really means. Come take a ride with Mizz Butterfly as she takes you on a roller coaster ride filled with lies, alibis, deceit and more drama than you can handle in the hot steamy novel If It Ain't One Thing It's Another.

Genre: Urban fiction

Publisher: Self Published

Release Date: September 15, 2015

Page Count: 107

Purchase If It Ain’t One Thing, It’s Another

“As if dealing with my father’s death wasn’t enough, here comes more drama. Things just can’t seem to go right in my life. When will the madness end??” ~ Gizelle ~

If It Ain’t One Thing, It’s Another 2

As if dealing with her father's murder isn't enough for Gizelle, now the mother that she has never known has returned. On the outside, it appears that Amaya simply wants to be reunited with her daughter, but Gizelle's family isn't buying it. Does Amaya really want a relationship with her daughter or does she have other motives? Strap yourself down and continue the rollercoaster ride through this drama filled read.

Genre: Urban Fiction

Publisher: Natisha Raynor Presents

Release Date: October 10, 2015

Page Count: 109

Purchase If It Ain’t One Thing, It’s Another 2

“Life doesn’t always work out the way you want it. Best thing to do is play the hand you were dealt” ~ Kimori ~

When S#*! Gets Real

(Formerly titled When it all Falls Down)

Kimori Taylor is a college freshman determined to let nothing stop her from getting her degree. She does everything in her power to make sure her grades stay up, including her decision not to date. Julian "Juelez" Douglas along with his twin brother Dom and their brother Cash take over their father’s drug business after he goes to prison. Juelez is determined to get everything he wants in life including Kimori. Their relationship is like a real life fairytale until a series of events tear them apart. Things go downhill as a hurricane of secrets, murders, and lies start to surface. Is the love they have for each other strong enough to survive or will both of their lives crumble When S*** Gets Real.

Genre: Urban fiction

Publisher:  Natisha Raynor Presents

Release Date: January 11, 2016

Page Count: 130

Purchase When S#*! Gets Real

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Thanks for stopping by! Be sure to check out Mizz Butterfly's novels! Leave a comment below if you will be purchasing  &/or if you have any questions or comments. If you loved this post & want to be notified of new posts, subscribe to my blog!

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Until next time ....stay Blessed & Read!