APOOO

On the ‘Net With Author Kendra Norman-Bellamy

APOOO — Thu, 29 Jul 2010 03:18:23 +0000

Greetings Kendra and welcome to APOOO!

KNB: Thank you for having me, Yasmin. I’m honored.

In 140 words or less, tell readers about Kendra Norman-Bellamy.

KNB: I once heard my father say that happiness is what people have when everything is going well, but joy is what they have regardless of the situation. I think I’m one of the most joyful people in the world. I love God, I love my family, and I love my life as a writer, publisher, and motivational speaker. I have been privileged to identify my purpose and pursue my destiny. I am abundantly blessed.

In 140 words or less, tell readers why Fifteen Years would make a great addition to our personal library.

KNB: Fifteen Years has received glowing reviews since it released in February, and I’m grateful for that. It’s one of those stories that make you think. It tackles a wide range of subjects that I believe readers will find thought-provoking and intriguing. This is a story about hidden pains, inner struggles, and unexpected love. The main character in this book is Josiah “JT” Tucker, and he is a man who in no way looks like what he’s been through. He’s proof that looks can be deceiving. On the outside he’s the picture perfect depiction of a happy, successful man, but his insides tell a different story. Fifteen Years tackles the long term effects of child neglect, substance abuse, family secrets, the foster care system…and how, with God’s help, one can rise above it all.

How did you come up with the plot for Fifteen Years?

KNB: My father has a very large family. He’s one of eighteen children born to the same mother and father. There were no multiple births among his siblings, so my grandmother actually went through eighteen separate pregnancies. Because the family was so large, some of my older aunts and uncles would be getting married and leaving home at the same time that my younger aunts and uncles were being born. As a result, my dad and his siblings didn’t grow up to be very close knit. Several years ago, one of my uncles died suddenly. His wife had been killed tragically a few years earlier, so my uncle’s death left my cousins (there were eight of them) parentless, and because the aunts and uncles were so spread out and in many ways, disjointed, the children ended up in the care of the state. Growing up in foster care affected those cousins of mine in different ways. Some lashed out and ended up in legal trouble that landed them in jail while others went on to live normal “working American” lives. But one cousin in particular thrived. He was the only one among them who finished high school and then went on to complete college. He’s now a highly successful executive. For years, I’ve pondered their situation and how differently they turned out even though all of them suffered pretty much the same tragedies and endured the same hardships. I had that one thriving, successful cousin in mind when I created Josiah Tucker. He’s a man who life handed some very tough and sometimes impossible situations. Like my cousin, Josiah survives victorious, but not without scars that constantly remind him of the battle.

Are you working on another book, and if so, can you share a brief summary with us?

KNB: Well, I’ve had another book to release since Fifteen Years came out. Song of Solomon just hit bookstores everywhere on July 1^st, so it’s still hot off the press. My job as a writer is never done, so I am always working on something new. Currently, I’m writing the fourth and final installment of what has been dubbed as my “Shelton Heights Series.” Previous books in this collection are In Greene Pastures, Battle of Jericho, and The Lyons Den. The last book in the set will be entitled Upon This Rock, and it is slated for release in May of 2011. This book will capitalize on the life of a man simply known as Rocky (thus the title of the book). He’s a recently released prisoner (after serving more than 20 years) who was introduced in the first book of the series, but was really given an identity in The Lyons Den. Rocky is recently reformed and is now a born again Christian, but the transgressions of his past just won’t seem to leave him alone, and in the end, he begins to wonder if he were better off living the life of a sinner. Like its predecessors in the series, Upon This Rock is a healthy mix of drama, mystery, and romance. It will answer many of the questions surrounding the mystifying and infamous neighborhood known as Shelton Heights, and it comes with a twist that I hope will take readers by surprise.

Thus far, what has been your favorite 2010 moment?

KNB: The moment I wrote the final word on my first nonfiction/ministerial book. It’s titled I Shall Not Die, and it’s a book that has been fifteen years in the making. It only took me five months to complete the project, but I had been charged by God to write it nearly fifteen years ago. So to finally be obedient and now be on the brink of its release (October 2011) and the launch of a partnering motivational ministry called The I.S.L.A.N.D. (I Shall Live And Not Die) Movement, is a monumental moment for me. I’m very excited at what I know God is going to do by way of this book and ministry.

What are your most overused words or phrases?

KNB: I don’t really want to call it an “overused phrase” because I don’t think I can ever say it enough. But I repeatedly say, “To God be the glory” whenever people shower me with praises or compliments for my books or any other achievement. I know that I’m nothing and can do nothing without Him. I very much appreciate the accolades, but all the glory belongs to God, so that’s my general response.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

KNB: I have two biggies that run neck-and-neck, and I don’t know which irks me most. I can’t stomach a user. A person who abuses/misuses another person’s generosity or kindness; basically bilking everything out of them that they can, and then disrespectfully and cold-heartedly tossing them aside when they feel they don’t need them anymore. In my opinion, it’s one of the worst kinds of deceptions. I’m also very annoyed by chronic complainers. Despite the bad economy, the mass majority of us are very privileged. We may not have an overabundance of money and material possessions, but God has provided us with many of our needs and even our desires. Yet greed and discontentment blinds us, and we choose to focus on what we don’t have rather than what we do, thereby making complaining an art form.

What is your most surprising talent or interest – the one that makes people say “I didn’t know you (did/liked/knew)…”?

KNB: I can sing, and most people don’t know that because I do it so rarely. It’s not necessarily something that I enjoy doing, but I used to be one of the lead vocalists in a family gospel group as a teen and young adult.

What’s one song that people would be surprised to know is on your IPod (or in your music collection)?

KNB: “Halo” by Beyoncé. When it comes to secular music, I lean heavily toward old school artists, so I think most people, especially those who know me well, would be surprised to know I have any of her music. I happened to take one of those “Which R&B Song Are You?” surveys on Facebook one day when I had nothing better to do, and when I finished, the result said “Halo.” I wasn’t familiar with the song, so I immediately went online and found a link that allowed me to listen in its entirety. I appreciated the implication of the lyrics and ended up going on Amazon and purchasing the MP3 download of the song.

Name five things that make your world go round.

KNB: Daily prayer, the love of my family, the support of my friends, my writing ministry, and good music

Kendra thanks for taking time out of your busy schedules and spending a few with APOOO.

KNB: The pleasure has been mine. Many blessings to you and APOOO!

Before you leave check out APOOO Reviewer Donnica’s review for Fifteen Years.

On the ‘Net With Author Kendra Norman-Bellamy is a post from: APOOO

Is Obama Being Too Timid? by Rambling Raven

Raven — Tue, 27 Jul 2010 20:34:54 +0000

Is Obama Being Too Timid? by Rambling Raven

I stood in line for three hours to cast my vote for President Obama. I cried when he won the presidential election. My hope in America and its future was renewed. Yet, I knew that the first African American president was going to have an uphill battle. I knew the ugly racists out there were going to throw everything they possible could at him. My greatest fear was for his safety. I was prepared for the hateful and cowardly actions of others. What has thrown me for a loop recently has been that of the actions of the president and his administration.

I never expected President Obama to be the savior of America or the world. My hope was for him to bring intelligence, class and fairness to the office of the presidency. He certainly is intelligent, has class and tries to be fair. My issue with the president is that I desperately want him to be more forceful towards his critics and detractors.

It appears as if the president and his administration react too late to some major issues, causing President Obama to appear timid. An example of this is when the BP oil spill occurred. The administration took too long to address the spill to the media and the public. Obama should have come out forcefully condemning BP and demand that there be a quick solution to stopping the oil spill. Instead the president and his administration were curiously quiet on the issue until the story appeared to gain steam in the media. The late reaction caused people to question where Obama stood on the issue. And in some cases point blame at him for the not doing enough to protect the environment and America’s interests.

I am most disappointed in how the administration are allowing the loud mouth conservatives bash and distribute lies about the president, without barking back. FOX News is an entity built on attacking Obama. I am convinced that the network is aiming to destroy President Obama’s chances at winning a second term to office. The reports that are spewed by many of the commentators on the network are vicious and racist. Now, I KNOW that Obama and those in his administration can not go around answering to everyone who say things that aren’t favorable. However, in some cases they are dealing with news outlets that reach millions of people. The administration needs to try and counter some of the idiotic things being touted as truth.

The Shirley Sherrod case is yet another example of how the Obama administration appears to be spineless and spooked by conservatives. Instead of investigating the case for full details, those within the administration appeared to have been scared that they would be featured on the Glen Beck show. Instead of standing up to the hate-mongers the Obama administration jumped the gun and unfairly fired Ms. Sherrod based on an edited video segment.

The Sherrod case isn’t the only case that the new administration appears to give in to the conservatives over. We all can recall the Van Johnson case, where once again FOX News commentators demanded that the president get rid of someone based on preceived racial bias. Instead of fighting for Johnson the Obama administration gave in. The organization ACORN was also a victim of fanatical conservatives distorting the truth and the Obama administration once again caved in by disbanding the organization.

I think those of us who are rational and fair want our president to be a bit more vocal against those who are being irrational and unfair. I want President Obama to stop side stepping some of the issues because they involve race. We don’t want him to spend all of his time addressing the loud mouth conservatives who bash him. Still, we don’t want him remaining silent and allow them to the only voice that America hears.

Is Obama Being Too Timid? by Rambling Raven is a post from: APOOO

An Inconvenient Friend by Rhonda McKnight

Jennifer Coissiere — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 05:15:28 +0000

Title: An Inconvenient Friend by Rhonda McKnight

APOOO: 4.5

Amazon: 5

Heading: Looking For Love

Even the best-laid plans can go awry. In Rhonda McKnight’s An Inconvenient Friend, Samaria Jacobs planned on getting her happily ever after with Gregory Preston, no matter the cost. However, Gregory was not a single man. He had already pledged his life to his wife, Angelina. Samaria came up with a foolproof scheme, but who would be the fool in the end?

Samaria, as much as she fought it, was a dutiful daughter. Even with her tough exterior, saying no to her mother was not easy. Her mother was the one person she was able to say yes to all the while regretting it, but everyone else in Samaria’s life better watch out. She is a sharp, sassy, beautiful, smart woman. But somewhere she is missing something. It was not until she entered Angelina Preston’s life, that she realized exactly what it was.

I enjoyed this book from cover to cover. For a moment, I had a look into the mind and life of “the other woman.” Even though I do not condone another person coming between a husband and wife, I understood the reason Samaria did what she was doing. I recommend An Inconvenient Friend to readers of Christian fiction or inspirational fiction.

The author provided a copy of the book for review purposes.

Jennifer Coissiere

APOOO BookClub

Visit amazon to pre-order a copy of An Inconvenient Friend.

An Inconvenient Friend by Rhonda McKnight is a post from: APOOO

Chocolate Lemons and Peppermint Tears by Robin R. Robinson

APOOO — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 05:08:59 +0000

In the debut novel by Robin R. Robinson, readers meet Xena Vaughan a beautiful, successful, and confused woman, who cannot get over the married man that betrayed and deserted her. As she works through bouts of depression, she decides to start loving herself, to stay celibate, and start her life over in a new city. However, when she feels she has gotten her former lover, Adam, out of her life, she receives a phone call with his familiar voice, which starts the palpitations in her heart and butterflies flittering in her stomach.

Renee, the out-going best friend, convinces Xena to go out, which leads her on a search for her true love. Eric Braverman, who Xena believes was sent from above, is everything she is looking for; he is intelligent, good looking, and treats her like a queen. Is he too good to be true?

Chocolate Lemons and Peppermint Tears: The Bittersweet Life of Xena, is a quirky story that will make you laugh as you go along Xena’s ride called life. The book has a slow take off but once you get to know the characters, it picks up with witty phrases and scenes. If you can get past the over-the-top descriptions than this is the read for you. I do recommend this book to others.

The book was provided by the author for review purposes.

Teresa Beasley
APOOO BookClub

Visit amazon to order a copy of Chocolate Lemons and Peppermint Tears and to vote accordingly for Teresa’s review.

Chocolate Lemons and Peppermint Tears by Robin R. Robinson is a post from: APOOO

Desires of the Heart by Beverly Taylor

Sharel Gordon-Love — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 04:45:30 +0000

How dangerous is it to share your personal marital problems with a co-worker, one may wonder? Perhaps someone of the opposite sex really understand what women go through and how they think and offer the best advice based on shared information, or can they? In Beverly Taylor’s Desires of the Heart, Carson O’Connor finds out the answer to this and more than he ever wanted to know.

Carson had no idea that sharing marital problems with a woman other than his wife, Katherine, would cause the problems that arose. The advice that Cindy Lomax gave to Carson was allegedly a sure-fire way to restore his marriage to Katherine. The two women were like night and day in build: one bosomy with ample hips, and the other thin as a rail, and willing to do whatever it takes to win back the love of her husband.

Like most men, Carson did not realize Cindy’s intentions until their living arrangements started to become a problem, and the intermingling of their children took a turn that Cindy had not planned for in her quest to get what her heart desired.

At first I thought this would be a book full of drama, but it is far from that. Mental illness is on the rise, and author Taylor has written a story that raises awareness of it and the detriment it can have on the person and those around them. Yet, in the midst of the story, you can see God working things out behind the scenes to bring about restoration and peace.

This book was provided to me courtesy of the author for review purposes.

Review by Sharel E. Gordon-Love
APOOO BookClub

Visit amazon to order a copy of Desires of the Heart and to vote accordingly for Sharel’s review.

Desires of the Heart by Beverly Taylor is a post from: APOOO

Don’t Blame the Devil by Pat G’Orge Walker

Sharel Gordon-Love — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 04:37:15 +0000

Title: Don’t Blame The Devil
Author: Pat G’Orge Walker
Apooo: 5
Amazon: 5

Heading: The Faithfulness of God

Author Pat G’Orge Walker brings back Deacon Pillar and his conk in her latest novel, Don’t Blame The Devil. Ole Deac was good at setting other folks straight and letting them know what thus saith the Lord, but this time, he had to face some things from his past that he thought would never come to the light; or did he?

When Deacon Pillar stepped out of church one Sunday and saw who he thought to be his deceased wife sitting in a SUV, his first impulse was to confront her immediately and get some answers. But Delilah was not trying to hear a thing from the man that she called an old fool, and tried her best not to pick up where they left off some 40 years prior. There were some things that were still between them that needed confronting and resolving, but it would not happen in that one time meeting.

Delilah Dupree Jewel’s life had a beginning that most would not believe would have a good ending, but she used the beauty she inherited from her mother to move among the makers and the shakers, but it was not enough to keep her family together. After 40 years of almost realizing her dream, she returned to New York on a promise on her terms to serve God so that He would honor her prayer request and she could live out the rest of her life better than the beginning. However, God had so much more in store for Delilah, far exceeding anything she could ask or think.

It was such a joy to read Don’t Blame The Devil! The exchange between Delilah, Deacon Pillar and the other characters that would round out this story of forgiveness, redemption and restoration had me laughing in tears. Ultimately, the most important message I received in this book is that we must take responsibility for what we have done and expect the consequences that will follow. After all, the devil is not the blame for what we consider to be bad in our lives. Even when we are the blame, we find God to be faithful in what He has promised; merciful and full of grace in the things we do not deserve, all because He loves us.

This book was provided to me courtesy of the publisher for review purposes.
Review by Sharel E. Gordon-Love
APOOO BookClub

Visit amazon to order a copy of Don’t Blame the Devil.

Don’t Blame the Devil by Pat G’Orge Walker is a post from: APOOO

Playing Hard to Get by Grace Octavia

APOOO — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 04:29:35 +0000

Grace Octavia brings Tasha, Troy, and Tamia back in PLAYING HARD TO GET. These best friends have been through it all…together. Now in the sequel to TAKE HER MAN, they move on to another journey in their lives. Troy is now a First Lady. Her marriage to Kyle is anything but picture perfect. She allows some of the nosey mothers of the church to wedge their way into her relationship. Tasha is married to her NBA baller, Lionel. They have moved out of the city into the suburbs with their two daughters and Tasha feels like she is drowning. She takes a big leap to get back on the scene that could cost Tasha her family. Tamia is on the fast track to making partner in her firm. She is dating high-powered attorney, Charleston, with lots of perks. When she is given a case that she thinks is a sure loser, Tamia never expects to meet Malik and to actually be able to learn something from him that could possibly change the rest of her life. Their lives are turned upside down and the challenges bring the 3Ts closer together.

Octavia’s writing style is in a category all of its own. She tells the story in a “sistergirl” fashion. She gives footnotes to help you understand the BAP (Black American Princess) and her personalized lingo. Octavia also inserts hilarious guides after a few chapters such as “Top Ten Reasons Men Lie in Love,” “The BAP Declaration of Independence,” “25 Classy-Girl Rules of Class Action” and “Six Male Conversations to Avoid.” I am not sure that I totally get the title, but I thoroughly loved the book. This book stands alone. You do not have to read TAKE HER MAN but I suggest you do. It was great as well.

This book was sent from the author for review purposes.

Donnica Copeland
APOOO BookClub

Visit amazon to order a copy of Playing Hard to Get and to vote accordingly for Donnica’s review.

Playing Hard to Get by Grace Octavia is a post from: APOOO

On the ‘Net with Author Rolanda Pyle

APOOO — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 02:24:12 +0000

Greetings Rolanda and welcome to APOOO!

In 140 words or less, tell readers about Rolanda Pyle.

Rolanda Pyle is a single Christian woman who loves to write. She is a social worker and has worked with grandparents raising children for the last 20 years. Rolanda loves God, her family, her godchildren, her friends, music, Broadway plays, cultural events, basketball and she loves to read and travel. Her favorite seasons are Fall and Spring. She is a notary public, adoption home finder and parent trainer consultant. She volunteers with Meals on Wheels Senior Chat and Script. Rolanda attends Love Fellowship Church-NY in Canarsie, Brooklyn where she works with the Adults in Action Ministry, the Welcome Committee and assists where needed. Rolanda has published two books, FINALLY and Beneath His Everlasting Wings. She has also contributed to the “Gumbo for the Soul “series and to “Beautiful Women: Like You and Me”. Her website is www.rorosrainbowcommunications.com .

In 140 words or less, tell readers why Beneath His Everlasting Wing would make a great addition to our personal library.

Beneath His Everlasting Wings is an anthology. This devotional MINISTERS to those going through difficult situations by providing tools to help readers cope with life challenges. It features a host of authors on diverse topics that affect us in our everyday walk in life. Some authors share personal stories and testimonies. You will witness authors recount their incredible experiences; these journeys include an author telling of how malicious words that should have dampened her vision, caused her to conquer her fears and propelled her to accomplish her dream; one woman’s trip to Africa where she comes to realize her “life’s purpose;” and another woman’s walk of faith after being diagnosed with cancer. Discover many more triumphs of faith that is a source of empowerment and enlightenment which the reader can continue to draw from for many years to come.

How did you come up with the plot for Beneath His Everlasting Wings?–I wanted to encourage and bless others with a few testimonies and stories. I always loved devotionals and always wanted to compile one. I knew so many people had a story to tell and encouraged them to do so. I knew that someone somewhere would be blessed by at least one of the devotionals.

Are you working on another book and, if so, can you share a brief summary with us?– I recently submitted a children’s story to a publisher. I am hoping they will pick up the story. It is a story about a grandchild who has to go and live with their grandparents.

Thus far, what has been your favorite 2010 moment?–Hmmnn, I’ve had a few- my niece’s graduation and prom; lovely vacation with family in Punta Cana, DR; but I would have to say my double nickel birthday celebration. It was a buffet dinner with a gospel show at the Cotton Club in Harlem, NY. Oh yes, also, I was asked to and contributed to a publication for young people entitled- Your Dreams Can Come True: Stories of Hope, Perseverance and Triumph. It’s a wonderful publication.

What are your most overused words or phrases? – Absolutely!, Say So! I’m not as young as I used to be. That type of thing.

What is your biggest pet peeve? – Negativity- People who harp on the negative or who build opinions without knowing or understanding the total picture.

What is your most surprising talent or interest – the one that makes people say “I didn’t know you (did/liked/knew)…”?– I love music, all kinds of music including gospel, jazz, R&B, classical (etc.) People are usually surprised to learn that.

What’s one song that people would be surprised to know is on your IPod (or in your music collection)? – Dinah Washington’s – What a Difference a Day Makes!

Name five things that make your world go round.– The Lord , my family, friends, writing and traveling!

Rolanda thanks for taking time out of your busy schedules and spending a few with APOOO.

On the ‘Net with Author Rolanda Pyle is a post from: APOOO

PLEASURE PRINCIPLE by Lesley Hal

Leona Romich — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 18:51:03 +0000

PLEASURE PRINCIPLE by Lesley Hal is about Bianca Brooks and her insatiable appetite for sex. Bianca is in a relationship with a woman (Taylor) whom is married to a Dallas Mavericks player, Eric Sims. Although, Bianca is in love with Taylor she is frustrated that they are unable to spend more time together. With Bianca’s appetite for sex she has quite a few sexual partners on the side.

Bianca is a successful business woman who owns her own catering and event planning company called Pleasure Principles. She runs it with two of her best friends, Cody and Reggie, who are both gay. Cody and Reggie are there for Bianca no matter what kind of drama she gets into. They also keep her in stitches. No matter what Bianca does they do not judge but will gently try to keep her grounded. No matter man or woman, Bianca is a woman that has an itch that needs to be scratched and will not turn down a sexual advance. Bianca’s insatiable appetite for sex causes many conflicts and problems. Although Eric is being unfaithful himself, he decides to hire a private investigator to see if Taylor has been unfaithful to him. What he discovers will devastate him and prompt him to make a serious decision.

PLEASURE PRINCIPLE by Lesley Hal was an interesting story to say the least. The story starts off with Bianca telling her tale to a sex therapist. If you think that Bianca is there to find out the reason why she is promiscuous or a way to stop being so promiscuous you are sadly mistaken. This story has a lot of sex thrown in throughout but it is also has a story unlike one you would normally hear about anywhere else. Hal does an excellent job in weaving together an intricate love triangle; one you will never guess how it will end. I will admit that at first I was apprehensive about reading the story cause it just seemed like it was a sex-filled novel but I really enjoyed the storyline and the overall story. I look forward to reading this author’s other novels.

This book was provided by the author for review purposes.

Reviewed by Leona
APOOO BookClub

Visit amazon to order a copy of Pleasure Principle and to vote accordingly for Leona’s review.

PLEASURE PRINCIPLE by Lesley Hal is a post from: APOOO

Lessons Learned: Loving Yourself As A Black Woman by Tinisha Nicole Johnson

APOOO — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 18:41:35 +0000

Lessons Learned: Loving Yourself As A Black Woman by Tinisha Nicole Johnson is a book that helps women get past their failures and move forward. The author, Tinisha Johnson, provides motivation and encouragement to women to prepare themselves for a productive failure. There are 10 lessons in the book and each are filled with the author’s personal experiences and what lesson has been learned.

While the title of the book states it is for black women, this book could be beneficial for a woman of any ethnicity. It includes how to let go of past pain, how to define and find true happiness, self-control, self-worth, and goal setting, to name a few of the lessons. Lessons Learned goes on to instruct the reader how to gain self-confidence and how to improve their life overall.

Lessons Learned: Loving Yourself As A Black Woman is a very uplifting book that helps lay out techniques on how to break free from the past and develop true self-love so the reader can succeed in all areas of their life. I truly enjoyed reading Lessons Learned, as it was a quick read yet made me take time to analyze some areas of my life. My favorite lesson in this book was number eight which discusses self-image and being comfortable in your own skin.
I recommend this book to any woman, especially young women. This book was provided to me courtesy of the author for review purposes.

Tiffany Craig
APOOO BookClub

Visit amazon to order a copy of Lessons Learned and to vote accordingly for Tiffany’s review.

Lessons Learned: Loving Yourself As A Black Woman by Tinisha Nicole Johnson is a post from: APOOO

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