Myne Whitman

Welcome

2013-03-03T17:51:00.000-08:00

Thank you for visiting my website.

I am a Nigerian Bestselling Author, Blogger and Indie Publisher.

My first novel, A Heart to Mend is a story of self discovery and unconditional love in the vibrant city of Lagos Nigeria. My second Novel, A Love Rekindled, is about first love, ethnic conflict and broken promises, the synopsis is in the book trailer below. Both books are available in stores and Amazon.com.

I hope you enjoy looking around, and do join me on my blog, where I share my observations about love and life, and excerpts from any current Work-In-Progress.

Thanks for coming with me on the journey and I promise you that there will be more lovely stories. Above all, keep believing in yourself and love!!!!

Talking my Next Book on Woman's Essence Mag

2012-04-12T17:26:00.001-07:00

What’s your next book about? My work in progress is tentatively titled ‘A Fiery Love’. Thirty year old Dunni returns to Nigeria on vacation and is seduced by local lothario, Babs. Can the chemistry between them translate to lasting love?"

Read more - Myne Whitman is Africa’s Romance Queen | Woman's Essence Magazine

Worldreader Demos A Heart to Mend in Book App

2012-04-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

Worldreader is a charity whose mission is to make digital books available to all in the developing world, enabling millions of people to improve their lives. First focusing on distributing Kindle e-readers to rural schools in some African countries, Worldreader is now moving into providing reading content to feature phones through the BiNu phone app.

Read in Full: Worldreader Demos A Heart to Mend in new Book App

Interview with Blueprint Newspaper

2012-03-16T17:19:00.000-07:00

"Myne Whitman, a Nigerian romance writer and blogger based in America, in this interview with AWAAL GATA, talks about her two novels, A Heart to Mend and A Love Rekindled. She also dissects the reasons why she is a romance writer and how the internet has globalised writers.

When and how did you start writing?

I have been writing for quite a while now. I remember writing while still in primary and secondary schools, but I only became serious when I got to the University. The decision to send my work out into the world matured around the middle of 2009. I had just moved to the United States and being unable to work at first, I began writing full time, initially for six months. I joined a writing group, started a blog, and people seemed to like what I had to write about. Eventually, I made up my mind to pursue this full time writing career and see where it took me."

Read full interview - I am a romance writer because of my marriage – Whitman : blueprint newspaper

On BusinessDay - Telling the Naija stories

2012-02-18T09:27:00.000-08:00

"Romance fiction may seems too escapist for some people, but for the writer, “If a reader wants to escape through a romance novel, that is perfectly okay, the world is tough enough as it is.”

She shares that she receives a large number of fans’ mails letting her know that her stories have given them an insight they never had. On profitability, Whitman’s first book, A Heart to Mend, occupied the first position on the AmazonUK Kindle store for romantic suspense. To date, over 20,000 copies have been downloaded. Her second book, A Love Rekindled, was at the top of the bestseller list for one of the major books stores in Lagos between August and September. But, regardless of the number of copies sold, the writer appreciates that her stories can help readers make sense of the world around them."

Read the full article on BusinessDay

AuthorHouse - Featured Published Author

2012-02-15T10:47:00.000-08:00

"An Inspiration to Her Fellow Nigerian Writers

Whitman recognizes the difficulties facing Nigerian writers in gaining recognition for her work. Seeing her success, she was contacted by a number of aspiring Nigerian authors asking for help and advice. Whitman’s response was to create Naijastories. Nigerian writers can join this community and connect with one another, agents, published authors and the general public to find ways to gain their own recognition.

“It was my way of saying to Nigerian writers and other writers that you’re not alone, you just have to keep writing and one day your voice will be heard.”"

AuthorHouse Publishing - AuthorHouse Published Author, Myne Whitman:

I'm included in the 50 Nigerians who made a Difference in 2011

2012-01-11T18:30:00.000-08:00

"If there's anyone in recent years that have been vibrantly and unselfishly promoting Nigerian literature, that person has to be Nkem Akinsoto. Akinsoto, the author of two romantic novels 'A Heart To Mend' and 'A Love Rekindled', is however popularly known by her pen name 'Myne Whitman', a transliteration of her maiden name Nkem Okotcha, which she adopted as a secondary school student in Enugu.

Armed with a Masters degree in Public Health, Whitman who describes herself as “friendly, caring and fun-loving”, nowadays prefers to write, blog, and promote literature. A member of the Pacific Northwest Writers Association, she extends her tentacles to Nigeria via robust posts and criticisms on social media and most especially naijastories.com, a website she founded to promote and support Nigerian literature."

I'm included in the 50 Nigerians who made a Difference in 2011 | Myne Whitman Writes

Exclusive With Myne Whitman « Gist Express

2011-09-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

GE Exclusive Interview With Nigerian Author Myne Whitman « Gist Express:

"Gist Express: Why the use of a “pen name”?
Myne: I coined my first pen name when I began to write fiction seriously in secondary school. Most of the books I read were in English, and since I was writing in English too, I decided my name would be the same. Also, it sparked the creative side of me that I could make up a name for myself to use whenever I liked. So the pseudonym is a play on the transliterated words of my maiden name, Nkem Okotcha. As a published author, I chose to use this form of my name because it gives me some privacy, and also to meet the demands of my split career in public health and writing.

From YNaija Magazine: A heartfelt promise

2011-09-01T18:15:00.000-07:00

A review of Myne Whitman’s ‘A Heart to Mend’

"The battle between serious literature (literary literature) and unserious literature (pulp literature) has been on for ages. Myne Whitman’s debut novel A Heart To Mend has offered a truce. In Mend, there is a lovely blend of the pulp and the literary. Whitman proves that it is very possible for a novel to serve Art for Art’s purpose as much as it serves the purpose of Art for Life.

Gladys, a 26 year old graduate, leaves Enugu for Lagos to job-hunt. While trying to get her way, Edward, a wealthy orphaned bachelor in his mid thirties snobbishly comes to her rescue. They go their separate ways but fate brings them together again. Gladys, who has now ceased to be the newcomer, sweeps Edward off his feet. Love spirals. However, their love is caught in the web of Edward’s past. He is about to lose all he has lived for. Only Gladys can save him.
"

Goodreads Giveaway - Autographed copies

2011-04-04T10:54:00.005-07:00

Goodreads Book Giveaway

A Love Rekindled

by Myne Whitman

Giveaway ends June 24, 2011.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Thank you!

2011-03-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks for buying your autographed copies of my books. Do let me know how you found it when you finish reading. Your feedback is important to me, and I love hearing from my readers.

Keep believing in yourself and in love!

Face the Past.

2011-02-15T18:05:00.000-08:00

Abuja. November 27, 2009. 5pm

Kevwe stood at the window in Ofure’s office shifting looks between the view outside, and his brother making notes on the records of his patients. Half an hour earlier, an airport taxi had dropped him off following the flight from Lagos. Ofure had tried to dissuade him from coming, but he’d insisted. Now, nerves and impatience crawled over his skin like ants. He pushed open the blinds and blinked. The glare of the sun drew his attention to the massive pylons of the shadow roof over the Julius Berger head office building in the distance. He studied the sprawling Utako Market wondering if Efe was already on her way. Whatever happened, he was determined to speak with her today.

Kevwe dropped the blinds and joined his brother at the wide table strewn with papers. Ofure’s gaze was fixed on the screen of the computer placed near the end of the table, and his right hand pushed and clicked at the mouse. Leaning back into his chair, Kevwe sighed and closed his eyes. If he weren’t so exhausted, he would still be watching for when Efe arrived. He wanted to see her before she entered the office. Feeling Ofure’s gaze on him, he looked up to see that his brother had vacated his seat and stood by the window.

“Are you sure you’re ready for this?” Ofure asked.

“Yes and thanks, I got tired.” His right leg throbbed, and he bent to massage it at the knee. He couldn’t wait for Efe to arrive. After a while, his brother’s silence prompted Kevwe to sit up. Now facing inside, Ofure stared through the glass wall overlooking the lobby. Kevwe followed his gaze and felt a jolt when he recognized Efe standing in front of the receptionist’s desk. His first impulse was to rush out, but he forced himself to remain seated.

When the knock came to announce her arrival, Kevwe was propelled into action. Standing, he walked over the desk and leaned against it. He wanted to be the first person Efe saw when she entered the office. He glanced over his shoulder, and realized that with Ofure would be out of view from the door if he remained by the window. He wondered if his brother had done that deliberately, and then the door opened again and Efe stepped in, driving all thought away. If it was possible, she looked exactly as he remembered her.

“Good evening, Doctor,” she said, coming further into the room.

“Good day, Ms. Sagay,” Ofure stepped away from the window.

Kevwe noted the moment Efe realized there were two of them. She stopped walking, and her mouth sagged. Her eyes closed and opened again as if she’d seen a ghost.

As she looked from one brother to the other, she took a step backward. “No...”

Kevwe was shocked when she slumped. Close enough to catch her, he could do nothing as she slid to the floor. Not only had his knee frozen up, the last thing he wanted was physical contact.
Ofure strode to Efe’s side, picked her with ease and sat her on the sofa. Kevwe watched as he pushed her head between her knees.

“Don’t just stand there,” Ofure commanded. “Get a nurse.”

Kevwe felt lightheaded as he left the support of the desk, and only his slamming heart kept him on his feet. Seeing her after these years left him weak. She’d been his world for a time, a time when he’d planned a future that included visiting this same city with her.

__

Giveaway - My Love Affair with Books

2010-10-18T23:51:00.000-07:00

By Misha Matews

GIVEAWAY: Ebook of A Heart to Mend (Ends Oct 24th)

RULES:
Go to My Love Affair with Books
1. Leave a comment with your email
2. MUST be a follower

All the best!

Book Giveaway on Goodreads

2010-09-12T07:31:00.001-07:00

Goodreads Book Giveaway

A Heart to Mend

by Myne Whitman

Giveaway ends September 30, 2010.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter to win

In the Print Media

2010-09-05T16:53:00.001-07:00

"Only few writers that spin this kind of tale... For once, we get the feeling that we are treading this path of love with the characters and again, we try to be one with the city, which is a character on its own. Truth is; Whitman has charmed me. Enthralling!" - Onyeka Nwelue, author of The Abyssinian Boy

“Nigerians and indeed Africans are not known for romance writing. The reason can be attributed to the sense of morality (real or apparent) that seeks to relegate issues of love to the secrecy of bedrooms and treats sex as something to be talked about only in hushed tones like it were some mysterious sacred ritual...Myne Whitman’s book, A Heart to Mend, makes a bold statement to the contrary.” - Sylva Nze Ifedigbo, Author of Whispering Aloud.

“…the beauty of this book, is that there is redemption for all…in tandem with the title cover, that there can indeed be mended hearts” - Ify Malo

“…love (even with all its problems) can transform a person and heal them enough to allow forgiveness in a heart.” - FFF, www.shotmusinz.blogspot.com

“The book has been buzzing and is a definite buy.” - Arinze Obikili, www.jaguda.com

"A HEART TO MEND narrates the relationship between Gladys and Edward and offers a unique reading experience. Direct and action packed, the masterful use of emotion and suspense will keep readers totally engrossed and guessing till the end." - www.werunthings.net

“Filled with questions and themes of clashing backgrounds, societal class, premarital sex, family feuds and personal scandals, this book will have you flipping through the pages anxiously…It brings you back to the realities of life: how fragile love can be and the realizations of trust and fear.” - Mariam Olagunju, www.gidilounge.com

“Myne Whitman has written a captivating first novel…” - Linda Ikeji - www.lindaikeji.blogspot.com

“…it is the journey, not the destination that entertains in this novel, and the author has done a great job of creating a story of two characters who engage our sympathies and who we find wanting to triumph over the odds that are thrown their way.” - Nigeriavillagesquare.com

“More than anything this book is a breath of fresh air - very different from the stereotypical images portrayed in most books regarding the continent...this is just plain easy feel good read like a top selling novel sitting on the Romance aisle at Borders or Barnes and Nobles.” - Olamild Entertainment, www.olamildentertainment.com

A captivating contemporary African love story, A HEART TO MEND is best described as heartwarming, vivid and charming. Myne Whitman delivers romance in her first and newly released novel with such practicality and skill. It is an unforgettable love story weaved together by a quixotic and imaginative mind that is both believable and relatable! - N Amma Twum-Baah, Founder and Editor, Afrikan Goddess Online

"A Heart to mend is a fearless tale about love….an unbiased story of the struggles, failures, victories, strength and harsh decisions people face at some point because of those they love. This book has a story that has been broken down and told with smooth and simple language. A Heart to mend is a delicious and beautiful story." – Chizitere Ojiaka, www.courageousfingers.blogspot.com

Reviews on Amazon.com

2010-09-05T16:50:00.001-07:00

Great Read!!, September 4, 2010

By	Otis G. - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Paperback)

After meeting Myne Whitman here in L.A. I bought her book and just finished reading it. I'm happy to say that it was a great read! From the opening, I was hooked!!
I've not read very many romance stories, but I really liked this book because it's much more than just a love story. I love the fact that the story was set in Lagos Nigeria. I was immediately taken back to my travels there with all descriptions and places she used. I also like the fact that in addition to the love story she included thorough character backgrounds, suspense, business, a happy ending, and weaved them all together magnificently!

Nice book, August 11, 2010

By	NickE - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Paperback)

All i can say is my sister loves the book, and she reads all sorts of Novels.

Excellent Read, July 28, 2010

By	Folake Taylor "Author of The Only Way is Up" (Atlanta, GA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Kindle Edition)

Ms Myne has started off with a bang. A heart to mend is a wonderful story of finding love for Gladys and Edward. Set in modern day Nigeria, you almost feel like you are in the story with them and Myne's descriptions are very apt and real. This is the first romance novel set in Nigeria that I have read. If there are others, I have not come across them.

I must admit I did get lost in the details of the finance industry at the beginning but once I got past that, it was smooth sailing and I came to understand towards the end of the book why those earlier details were somewhat necessary. For those who understand that industry, I'm sure they can tell how much research went into that.

I feel like the author has broken a barrier and given us something we did not have prior. I would definitely recommend "A Heart to Mend".

Kudos Myne Whitman and I look forward to more great writing from you.

A good page turner, June 8, 2010

By	Ogugua Onyejekwe - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Paperback)

I just finished reading your book, I thoroughly enjoyed it.I loved the fact that you gave each character a dimension, a side to their story, in their own shoes. Your novel was not a "one person" walk through. I am reading the whole book again!! and recommending it to my friends.

A M A Z I N G!!!!, May 16, 2010

By	B. Ogun (Maryland, USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Paperback)

I finished reading "A Heart To Mend" a weeks ago and my oh my this book is amazing! If you haven't read it yet....GET YOUR COPY NOW!!! As innn, I was almost in tears at the end of the book. It was so descriptive...I could feel the emotions and passion of each character through the pages and when she describe various places and scenes it felt like I was there! *sigh* Great Job Myne!

I loved It, March 16, 2010

By	Adamu Hyelhirra (debrecen, hungary) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Paperback)

great quality, a novel thats hard to put down when you start reading. i'll recommend this for everyone not just Nigerians. Yes it's a Nigerian setting, but it a great story line. Different from everything you have ever read. I just love it.

A great down-to-earth Nigerian contemporary novel!, March 9, 2010

By	Tola Odejayi - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Paperback)

There aren't that many novels set in contemporary Nigeria these days, so it's great to see this new novel by Myne Whitman that does just that. The novel touches on several different themes - estrangement, suspense, and of course love, and does so in a way that many people who are familiar with Nigeria and who have grown up there will relate to. A great first effort by the author, and a recommended read!

A breath of fresh air, January 18, 2010

By	Temi M (Seattle USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: A Heart to Mend (Paperback)

A Heart to Mend narrates the relationship between Gladys and Edward and offers a unique reading experience. Direct and action packed, the masterful use of emotion and suspense will keep readers totally engrossed and guessing till the end.

Sheltered Gladys Eborah has spent most of her life in a suburb of Enugu brought up in a deprived single parent household after losing her father as a young girl. After finishing her education, she moves to Lagos to seek a job and moves in with an estranged aunt who now wants to be forgiven for all perceived wrongs. Gladys suspects Aunt Isioma abandoned them out of disdain for their poverty, and has the uneasy role of the bridge between both families.

Her new friendships and career achievements gradually transition Gladys into an independent young woman. Soon, she begins to fall for wealthy Edward Bestman who, though physically attracted to her, is emotionally unavailable. Edward is very wealthy, but he is haunted by the past of his illegitimate birth and other secrets he will not share.

The themes of premarital sex, social class mobility, and romantic ups and downs that mark a budding love are fully explored. However, Myne Whitman takes the story even further. Some unnamed people are about to take over Edward's business empire and Gladys is implicated. Who are these people who want to betray him and destroy their happiness?

A Heart to Mend will bring tears to the eyes and cheers at the end especially for those who have experienced the search for a career or tumultuous family and emotional relationships. Readers will be pleasantly surprised by the description of Lagos, the Nigerian stock market, and other business intrigues.

Blog Anniversary Countdown Giveaway

2010-07-17T07:55:00.000-07:00

The first posts on my blog were made HERE on the 13th of August 2009. I started out with excerpts of AHTM, then known as Not the End of the Road. I had no idea I would publish, until I found out after a few months that sharing the story online ruled out conventional publishers. I was also really encouraged by how all those who read it reacted, both good and bad. Their feedback led me to brush up my writing and to really polish the manuscript.

It has been a roller-coaster of a year and I can honestly say that Myne Whitman today is just because of this blog and everyone that supports me. So for my blog anniversary, I plan to do something special for the followers of my blog. From today on until August 13, 2010, you can enter my blog anniversary giveaway and also invite others to take part. You can copy the HTML under the button on the right and put on your sidebar.

PRIZES:

Five lucky winners will each win an ebook copy of A Heart to Mend. All five will also get $10 gift cards on Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk.

HOW TO ENTER:

1. You must be a follower of Myne Whitman Writes.

2. Leave a comment starting with ENTRY and let me know what you'll like to see more of here on Myne Whitman Writes.

The winners will be selected via a Random.org widget which I will put up here on the blog on blog anniversary. I will also publish the names of the winners on August 13 and they will then have one week to email me so I can forward their prizes.

To have your name put in the draw more than once, you can do the following for extra points;

+1 if you are a Facebook fan (leave a comment on the page)
+1 for spreading the word (Twitter - @Myne_Whitman or Facebook @Myne Whitman)
+2 adding the giveaway button to your blog sidebar
+2 blog post on your blog.

Please leave the links to your extra entries through the last two ways so I can check them. Links will be verified for the extra entry.

Good luck to everyone!

A Heart to Mend Characters

2010-06-24T01:42:00.000-07:00

EDWARD BESTMAN

Edward is an all round man, tall dark and handsome, hard-working and successful. But he also has a lot of ego and pride in his character to counter for the insecurity, which is a large part of him. Edward has been seriously messed up in his previous relationships which he shows by holding himself back most times. His few close friends tease him with the nickname "Mr. Ice" from the way he bottles up and refuses to acknowledge his feelings.

GLADYS EBORAH

Gladys is at the self-discovery stage, a little timid, but well brought up and level-headed. She also shows a highly principled, strong, and independent side when necessary, a woman who knows herself and is not easily swayed. She does not think too highly of people puffed up by their wealth and as such is a bit cynical of Edward's motives. Though not overly independent, Gladys is consistent and sticks to her guns when she thinks something is not as it should be.

MRS. ISIOMA DEHINDE-OJO

This is Gladys's aunt and acts as a helpful mother figure to her in the new city. She is a sophisticated Lagos socialite whose diary is filled either with social engagements or business meetings. She has been estranged from her brother's family for several years and hopes that she'll be able to mend bridges through Gladys. She is kind, generous, strict when she has to be but generally accommodating.

MR. ODUSOTE

Mr. Odusote is a struggling stockbroker who owns Top Asset Limited. He is constantly looking for opportunities to clinch the Big Deal, and in his search, he has learnt never to take ‘no’ for an answer. He tends to sail close to the wind in his approach to business dealings irrespective of any inherent risks. He can be found in most financial offices or parties on the Island in search of 'his break'.

CHIEF OKRIKA

Chief Okrika (just call him Chief) is a successful businessman who owns a string of industries in Kano. He also sits on the board of several companies all across the country. He is arrogant and abrasive – in other words, he is a typical Nigerian Big Man who always likes to be seen to come out on top. He is married to an equally loud and imperious wife but does not allow it to crimp his style.

OLA, JENNIFER AND AYO

These are friends that Gladys makes in the first few months after she arrives in Lagos. They are all different in their own way. Ola is a born and bred Lagos babe and marries a Muslim before long; Jennifer is loud though friendly and gets engaged to her long term boyfriend on valentine's day. Most in tune with Gladys, Ayo is the quieter one, still single but happy to blend into the background.

KANAYO

He is a good friend to Edward and has been for several years. He is a bank manager and more recently he handles a lot of business accounts on behalf of Bestman Group PLC. He is dependable and intelligent and has the pass to most of the happening people and places on the Island.

***Art from Sheba's Graphics.

CONCEPT ART

***Art by AWW

AHTM Book Tour in New York + Giveaways

2010-05-24T12:06:00.000-07:00

Where:
Captain Cafe‎
34 East 32nd Street,
New York, NY 10016-5503
(212) 779-0003‎

When:
Tuesday June 1, 2010 (6 - 8PM)
Thursday June 3, 2010 (6 - 8PM)
Friday June 4, 2010 (7 - 9PM)
Saturday June 5, 2010 (Bloggers Summer Event - TBC)

Do you want to see Myne Whitman? Well the time has come.

Atala and I will be spending a few days in New York for our vacation this summer but as a self-employed person, you hardly stop working. So I have been able to negotiate a few evenings to dedicate to book readings, signings and networking. This is an opportunity for me to meet with you guys and I'm grabbing it. If you want to contact me more personally before the event for sponsorship or VIP treatement, send me email at Myne @ Mynewhitman.com.

But why would you want to attend? The following are reasons you may want to come...

1. Because you want to see me in person.
2. Because there will be lattes or your choice of coffee.
3. Because you are my your blogger friend :):)
4. Because you like my writing.
5. Because you want to buy an autographed copy of A Heart to Mend!

The following books by Nigerian Authors are up for grabs too! FREE!

A Heart to Mend - Moi! (Raffle draw at the Blogger Event)
In my dreams it was simpler - FG and the Team
Love in Paradise - Lara Daniels
The Mrs Club - Ekene Onu
Zara the Windseeker
To Saint Patrick - Eghosa Imaseun
Measuring Time - Helon Habila
Becoming Abigail - Chris Abani

Shelfari: Book reviews on your book blog

AHTM Blog Tour: Dec. 2009 - Jan. 2010

2010-04-21T07:34:00.000-07:00

Review on Sylva Nze Ifedigbo's weblog: Myne Whitman’s book, A Heart to Mend...shows that we do not only fall in love and marry for love, we also use love to conquer a wide range of situations that could have ordinarily been a bit difficult to shoulder alone.

Nigeria Press Release: December 29, 2009 --(PR.com) Nigerian author Myne Whitman has written a captivating first novel that presents the gripping tale of a young woman finding her feet in the world and how her life intersects with that of the wealthy egoist she meets.

UK Press Release: Book Title: A HEART TO MEND
Author: Myne Whitman; First Published: AuthorHouse, December 12, 2009

MiMi Magazine Blog: On The Future ... I definitely plan on writing more books...

GidiLounge Review: The simplicity, clarity and rhythm of the writing will draw you deeper into the book feeling what the characters feel. The elements of mystery and suspense allow the characters in the book grow, becoming insync and aware of their surroundings.

Critical Literature Review: “A Heart to Mend” which is the author’s début offering comes with many more pluses than minuses and gives an indication that this author is one to be watched for even richer outings in the future.

US Press Release: PR Log (Press Release) – Dec 27, 2009 – Direct and action packed, the masterful use of emotion and suspense will keep readers totally engrossed and guessing till the end.

Mynaijanews: The author has used a writing style that is simple and direct, with lots of descriptive detail...

Nigeria Village Square: "...the author has...two characters who engage our sympathies and who we find wanting to triumph over the odds that are thrown their way."

WeRunThings: The themes of premarital sex, social class mobility, and romantic ups and downs that mark a budding love are fully explored.

Talkaholic: ...what is more compelling is the drama that she conjures up as the identities and motives of the main actors in the takeover become clear, and the relationship between Gladys and Edward is threatened.

Linda Ikeji: A HEART TO MEND will bring tears to the eyes and cheers at the end especially for those who have experienced the search for a career or tumultuous family and emotional relationships.

MyNewsDesk Press Release

Olamild Entertainment: "A breath of fresh air. When you pick up Nkem Akinsoto aka Myne Whitman's debut novel, A Heart to Mend you wont drop it till you have reached its last page."

Afrogist TV: "Extra plot layers, a strong sense of place, three-dimensional antagonists, secondary characters with their own stories..."

National Daily Newspaper: "Women are better communicators than men..."

GidiLounge: "a novel of romantic suspense packed with love, business intrigue and family reunions".

Jaguda.Com: "Whitman writes!"

The Bookaholic: "Myne mend our hearts."

People in the limelight: "An inspiring writer...an inspiring story."

Magical Chip Bag: "A writer thus has to persevere..."

Spesh's World: Paparazzi: Virtual Tour Promo Interview.

For the Full Press Kit, go to A Heart to Mend Blog

Raffle Draw - Nigeria

2010-04-21T07:32:00.000-07:00

The first 500 copies of the book come with a free bookmark/ Raffle Ticket. The first prize to be won from the raffle draw will be an Ipod Shuffle. Other prizes include a Thesaurus, Memory Cards, internet modems, and Flash drives. The book presentation will hold at The DSAN center 43 Adegoke Street, Surulere Lagos on Thursday April 22, 2010 by 11am. For more information call the publicist, Ahaoma Kanu 08037487286.

To get your advance copies of A Heart to Mend in Nigeria;

For those in Nsukka, UNN, call 08065200621;
In Onitsha/Asaba, call 08066158599,
In Abuja Call 08036289794,
Port Harcourt 08136477573
Lagos Ikeja; 08098643221, 08059864322,
Festac 08069508842, 08023815724
For Agege Lagos 07034591699,
Iyana Ipaja Lagos 08084575936,
Ikeja Lagos (Computer Village) 08033556152,
Egbeda Lagos 08056387855...
Lagos Island Locations coming soon.

Features and Interviews

2010-03-22T11:37:00.000-07:00

INTERVIEW WITH THE VANGUARD
My intention is to contribute to the writing of the romance genre in Nigeria -
By McPhillips Nwachukwu.

Myne Whitman is a Nigerian born and United States based writer, poet and blogger. Recently, she came out with her first novel, A Heart To Mend, a fictional narrative, which seeks to revive the fading romance form in nation’s narrative oeuvre. In this e-mail interview, the novelist, Nkem Okotcha, who prefers to write with the Pen name, Myne Whitman, a transliteration of her real names, brilliantly and critically responds to some engaging issues raised from the deep journey around her narrative universe. She spoke to McPhilips Nwachukwu.

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FEATURE ON THISDAY - MARY EKAH

Have you got A Heart to Mend?

Going by her pen name, Myne Whitman, one would assume Okotcha is sort of running away from her identity, but this she refuted strongly. “Myne Whitman is a pen name which I prefer to use for my writing. I don't think it means I'm running from my identity unless you're referring to the fact that I use it to preserve my real identity. I use Myne Whitman for several reasons including for privacy due to the romance which I write and because the use of pen names is very common in that genre.

'I also like the choice which the use of pen names confers on people in the arts. I could give you several writers, singers and painters who used and continue to use pseudonyms”, she explained. And so, she prefers to keep her real name for personal and future professional use only.

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Available Where Good Books are sold

Publishers: Authorhouse $13.50
Amazon.com $18.50
Amazon.CO.UK GBP14.49
Amazon Canada CDN$19.08
Barnes & Noble $16.65
Borders: $37.78 (Crazy right? I don't know who's selling their copy.)
Kalahari South Africa R254.66
Books-a-million $18.31

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A Heart to Mend in Nigeria

For those in Nsukka, UNN, call 08065200621;
In Onitsha/Asaba, call 08066158599,
In Abuja Call 08036289794,
Port Harcourt 08136477573
Lagos Ikeja; 08098643221, 08059864322,
Festac 08069508842, 08023815724
For Agege Lagos 07034591699,
Iyana Ipaja Lagos 08084575936,
Ikeja Lagos (Computer Village) 08033556152,
Egbeda Lagos 08056387855...
Lagos Island TerraKulture, Silverbird.

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LadyBrille Personality of the month

LADYBRILLENigeria.com: Myne Whitman, first, let me congratulate you on publishing your first book. Also, I must say extra kudos for being confident to delve into the financial world. I loved it. Before we get into the many themes running through your novel, let’s get into the writing process and how our audiences who might want to self publish their fashion or similar related books might do so.

LADYBRILLENigeria.com: The first question that typically comes to mind are ideas on what to write. How do our LadybrilleNigeria writers get ideas on what to write?
Myne Whitman: I find inspiration from real life. From my own life, from the people around me and stories I read in the news or books. It could be just a sentence in a newspaper or a line in a movie and my creativity just feeds on it.

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AFRIKANGODDESS JULY SPOTLIGHT

Every woman thinks of love in its most ideal form – pure, unconditional and true – regardless of culture and upbringing. Some of us dream it, some of us read it, some of us live and experience it, and some of us write it. But, not all of us get to do all four in our lifetime, except, of course, women who dare to push the boundaries of their intrigues and childhood dreams. After all, they do say ideal love is for dreamers. But, what we forget is that dreams also, sometimes, do come true. At least it did for Myne Whitman! And today, she has dreamed love, she has read love, she has lived and experienced love, and she has written love. She is AG’s feature to kick off our summer of fun, love and laughter for very good reason - AG loves everything about romance and loving hearts intertwined into a good and believable story.

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African Loft interview: I was excited when I heard of Myne Whitman’s novel, “A heart to mend”. Written by a Nigerian — under the pan name “Myne Whitman”, with Nigerian characters and setting, “A heart to mend” is a fun and fast read.

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Jaguda Interview: I know growing up you must've been exposed to a good number of books and authors. From a literature standpoint, who would you say has been your biggest influence?

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QuestionMark Magazine Interview

Could you please introduce Nkem Akinsoto?

My name is Nkem Akinsoto also known as Myne Whitman. I sometimes come across as quiet and laid-back but do like a good loud debate sometimes. In three words, I will describe myself as friendly, caring and fun-loving. I have been a teacher, NGO consultant, banker, skate-hire attendant, researcher and Scottish government worker. After a postgrad degree and a few years in Edinburgh, Scotland, I now live in the United States with my husband.

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Femme Lounge: She is bold, she is brilliant, she is pretty, and we call her the Heart Mender! Myne Whitman is a young Nigerian woman and the author of A Heart to Mend, an exciting first novel that tells a powerful story of how love doesn’t strut, never gives up, never looks back and keeps going to the end.

Free Flowing Florida: Her book shows how love (even with all its problems) can transform a person and heal them enough to allow forgiveness in a heart.

Ahaoma Kanu (NVS): Take us back to those days while you were growing up in Enugu...? I grew up during the 1980's and remember as a child studying a lot, reading everything I could lay my hands on, and then trying to play as much as possible.

Bookaholic Blog Interview: Words to upcoming writers I will say that they should keep at it.

Gender and me (StandTall the Activist): Is there a concrete gender dimension to " Heart to mend"? There is indeed a gender dimension to the book.

VALENTINE DAY GIVEAWAY, an autographed copy of A Heart to Mend!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-14T00:55:00.001-08:00

So it is Sunday, happy Valentine to everyone. I am a very happy camper today since it is a special day for me and SO. The Valentine has started off well and I also received some news last week that added to it.

1. According to the publishers, A Heart to Mend has been selling very well and they're impressed.

2. Based on demand, I have gotten far in talks with distributors in Nigeria to make the book available across several cities before the end of this month. If you'll like to be involved send me an email myne@mynewhitman.com.

3. The sample chapter of A Heart to Mend on bookbuzzr is among the top ten of the thousands of books uploaded on that site. I have received a widget ribbon and would also become one of their featured authors.

In all these, I know I couldn't have made it without you guys so thank you all so much, I really do appreciate and love you all. But loving is more than talking abi? I reward loyalty so brace yourselves for the VALENTINE GIVEAWAY. I got the idea from some people who loved the Edward-Gladys proposal and want to have or dreamed of something like that.

TO ENTER:

What is your ideal/ dream romantic moment? Be as creative or as far-fetched as you like in just 100 words. Post a comment with your entry fantasy under this post.

All the entries will be compiled in a post by me two days from today. There will be a poll with that post and the entries will be judged by number of comments and votes on each and by me and SO if there is a tie. The poll will last till Friday the 19th of February 2010 and winner announced a day later. If you prefer, you can send an email to mulan.mine@gmail.com.

The hard copy is only for those in the United States. If you're in Nigeria or the UK and you win, I will send you an eBook. A similar contest is also on-going on the Myne Whitman writes FB fan page. If more of your friends are on there, you may consider entering for that and getting them to like your wall post entry.

A Heart to Mend/ GidiLounge Contest

2010-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Gidilounge is proud to re-introduce Myne Witman, A US based writer who recently released her first novel titled “A Heart to Mend“.

With the release of her first novel, we are holding a web based contest.

The winner gets to receive a free E-copy of her first novel – A heart to mend.

The winner will also be given the opportunity to be featured on gidilounge.com. The feature will include a picture and information about the winner(bio/talent/passion).

This contest is very simple. All you have to do is join/follow Myne Whitman on either her Twitter, Facebook page or her blog, and leave a comment on this post showing your interest.

Pretty easy right? You have from now(28-01-2010) until the 4th(04-02-2010) to win this prize.

The lucky winner will be selected through a random draw.

Winner will be announced on the 8th of February(08-02-2010)

Goodluck!

More information:

http://www.mynewhitmanwrites.com/

http://www.facebook.com/Myne.Whitman

http://twitter.com/Myne_Whitman

It's not just sex, I want us to get married...

2009-12-27T16:11:00.000-08:00

She clutched at his broad shoulders as he moved back to her lips. Their tongues meshed, dueling in the warm cavern of their open mouths. His hand left the zip to push her skirt up her thighs and she lifted herself till it was bunched around her waist. Both hands moved once more to her aching breasts, lifting both together as he sought the pouting nipples. Gladys pulled him closer and ran her nails down his back. The deep suckling dragged the moans from her again. His hands moved to her hips and brought her closer to feel his hardness. The ringing phone vibrated under her, they were lying on top of her purse. She pushed his hands away and scrambled up.

“Just ignore it.” Edward mumbled and tried to pull her back.

“We have to stop.” Gladys mumbled. She stood up and did up the buttons of her blouse.

“Baby we don't have to, come here.” He lounged back with open arms. A quick glance around the room showed his jacket on a chair, his tie draped on the coffee table. Gladys smoothed down her skirt, picked up the fallen ruffle and began to put her hair in order.

“Don't tell me you're ending this here, now?” Edward ran a hand over his head and looked down at himself. His shirt buttons were all undone and his erection was throbbing.

“Darling, you've said how much you care about me several times, but it's not enough. I'm sorry to bring this up again but frankly, we're both adults. We should...” He stopped.

Gladys prompted him after a while. “What?”

“Don't you want to see how this ends? Can you just imagine the two of us together fully? I know I want to fill you, make love to you completely…”

The muscles in her stomach jumped but Gladys tamped them down. “I would like that a lot Edward, but we've not planned for it or any of the outcomes.”

“Well there's a way to resolve this. I want us to get married.”

“How do you mean?” They'd never talked about marriage in relation to themselves.
Edward said the first thing that came to his mind. “Will you marry me?”

Gladys was confused at first. This evening that had started off so well had not worked out in any way she could have imagined. What he'd just said made no sense at all, and then it sank in.

“Is this a ploy to get me into bed or are calling my bluff?”

“No, I am serious Gladys. It's time to take this relationship to the next level.”

Gladys considered him in silence for several minutes. What kind of proposal was that? If she had fantasized about how this would go, this was no way near it. He still hadn't said how he felt about her. “Based on what?” When he didn't reply she added.

"I love you Edward, but how do you feel about me? I know you find me attractive but do you love me?”

Edward came to stand before her. He took her hands in his. “Doesn't it matter that I'm attracted to you? I really care for you Gladys and I want us to be together.”

“If we're to think about marriage, it has to be more than that. For goodness sake we'll be planning to spend the rest of our lives together. Edward, marrying someone means being exposed to them, trusting them with your emotions.” She paused and considered his words. “Can you be sincere and give me an answer from your heart? Can you do that?”

That was crux of the matter, Edward wasn't sure if he could do that. He'd thought about marriage to Gladys; they got on very well and after the dream on the beach, it was like - why not? But he hadn't considered love. He still didn't know if he was ready to trust his heart to someone else. He cared deeply about Gladys but he didn't want to label it. He came to stand before her.

“Let's not make this such a big deal. OK, I admit I may have brought up the topic the wrong way but I mean it. Maybe you need to go away and think about it?”

Gladys stood up and picked her bag. It was very plain that Edward did not love her. If he couldn't say it, marriage was out of the question. She would be deceiving herself to think seriously about his proposal, if one could even call it that.

“I love you Edward, but it is now obvious that you don't feel the same way.”

“Gladys wait…”
She ignored him and walked towards the door.

Edward's mind was in conflict as Gladys left the room and closed the door quietly. He sighed heavily and picked up his phone. He called the driver as he walked to the window and looked out. Almost immediately, Bonny came running from behind the house and into the garage. When he backed out the car, Gladys walked into view and Edward noticed that she had begun to cry. While he debated whether to run after her, she got into the car which then drove out of the compound. He allowed the curtain to drop and slammed his right fist into his left hand. Things had not gone well at all. Damn!

Gladys cried all the way home even after assuring Bonny that everything was alright. He kept glancing at her through the rearview mirror and murmuring “Madam sorry, e don do. E don do.” For her, no tears would ever be enough, at least not as far as she could see. What she had thought was a solid foundation had now proved to be only castles in the air. Her first major relationship had just crashed down around her ears. Edward had not even bothered to explain himself or follow her to the car.