Angie "The Shoe Diva" Daniels

From the moment I met Ms. Angie Daniels I knew she was a DIVA. What impressed me was she made no apologies for it. When she steps into a room it is with the grace of Grace Kelly, and the confidence of Patti LaBelle. There is no pretenses with Ms. Angie. She is who she is and I love her for it. Ms. Angie is the true definition of a HOT MAMA! 

Since she has a book coming out on August 25th, this is a good time to give her some shine. 

Ms. Angie, take center stage and shine! 

What do people think when they first meet you?

I don’t know. I guess I need to ask them. LOL. I hope they think I’m very approachable, beautiful, and crazy as hell.

Three words that best describe you.

Confident, sexy, and beautiful (what else would a diva say?)

Books that influenced you the most.

I get ask that question a lot and it’s hard to say. I think any book I have read has influenced me in some shape or fashion. I love to read and reading is what inspires me. As I writer I find myself dissecting stories, looking at the way the author created the characters, the way the visual picture is painted. There is much more to books than just mere words.

How do you unwind?

An apple martini and HGTV. LOL (I’m cracking myself up). Usually a few rounds of kickboxing does the trick.

What does nobody know about Angie Daniels?

What nobody knows is Angie Daniels can’t keep a man! LOL I’m a whole lotta woman to deal with. Few people know I am currently serving active duty with the Virginia Air National Guard. I work long ten-hour days and then run home, slip off the boots and slide my feet into a pair of stilettos in order to get those creative juices flowing for an hour or two before bedtime.

What do you prefer, traditional or self-publishing?

I prefer self-publishing, however, I think every author should try to go the traditional route. It’s a great way to get marketing and to build a fan base. Once you do, you will truly appreciate being self-published because you’ll have complete control of every aspect when it comes to your work. The experience has been liberating.

Share your insights on becoming a USA Today Bestselling Author.

I was at work when I received the call from Yvette Hines and I was floored. I didn’t think it was going to happen. Multicultural box sets don’t make the list, but we did it! I was in a daze for the rest of the day. I’ve been doing this for fifteen years so it’s a wonderful feeling. It’s a wonderful reward. (The new title looks amazing on my book cover). LOL Hitting the USAT list was a collaborated effort that took strategic marketing and the support of our fans to make it happen.

What motivates you to write?

I’m going to have to say my fans because there are many days I rather just take a month off, but then I’ll receive an email from a reader and it just gives me the energy to keep going.

Good People are hard to find. So when you come across one you do all you can to share their shine with others. Angie "The Shoe Diva" Daniels is such a person. 

Was there ever a time you wanted to step away from the literary game?

Yes, absolutely. When you’re writing for a major publishing house and they’re ripping you off that’s enough reason for you to say to hell with writing. It just isn’t worth it. It was the readers that convinced me to stay. They enjoyed my work regardless if it’s traditional publishing or self-publishing, just as long as I keep writing. That’s the pay off.

Tell us about Put Your Name on It    10&keywords=Angie+DanielsThis is a story that I spent almost a year trying to figure out how to make it work. Claudia Winters is in love with Maximillian James unfortunately he’s possibly the father of a baby by another woman and despite how Claudia feels she doesn’t do baby mama drama She tries to resist temptation only Max plans to prove to her that regardless of the circumstance her heart belongs to him. He has turned out to be one of my favorite characters to create. The book drops 25 August 2015.

Is this book a part of a series?

Put Your Name on It starts where Say My Name left off and is part of my Decadent Delight series. It goes way back to A Delight Before Christmas with Reggie and Berlin. The books center around five gorgeous milk-chocolate general contractors in the heart of St. Louis. I’ve always had a love for men who used their hands.

What motivated you to write this story?

The readers. They have been asking for Max’s story so I had to find a way to make it happen. I hope they like what I came up with. This is the largest book I have written in years. 95,000 words to be exact.

Who is up next in the series?

Trey and Mia will be the next story to unfold. Not sure when that’s going to happen. I have a few other stories to release before them.

Overall, how many books have you written?

I don’t know. Really I don’t. I lost count. Between Angie Daniels and my pseudonym Sasha Campbell I know it’s more than 30. I feel blessed to still be writing after fifteen years.

You spread your wings a little in 2014 to add acting to your resume. How was that experience? Unbelievable! I’ve been acting up all my life, but working on The Heart series was truly an unforgettable experience. I didn’t know how much hard work was involved, and I was nervous as hell but as the actors grew close and became more like a close knit family, it became so much easier to relax. I’m ready to get started for season two.

If you could turn one of your novels into a motion picture which would you choose and why?

Probably In The Company of My Sistahs. That is one book that is still dear to my heart. I love crazy chick flicks when women can let their hair down and act a fool. That book gives readers a taste of just about everything.

I hope you enjoyed a moment with the one and only Angie. 

Ms. Angie, thank you for taking the time to share a little of you with the readers. May you continue to shine with each step you take.  

Until the next time,

Iris B 

Christmas is Coming Around

Readers have been asking, Angie what can we expect from you this year for Christmas? As most of you know, every year I have my 12 days of Christmas countdown and each day I do a giveaway to my readers. Last year’s big  prize was a Kindle Fire. I haven’t quite decided what I plan to do to top that this year.

You’re also releasing a book, right?

Yes! It’s not Christmas without a holiday story. Book two of the Sexy Simmons series, Claiming What’s Mine, is scheduled for a Christmas Eve release. Yaaay!

I’ve been burning up the midnight oil to release this book on time, however, the problem I’ve been having is the cover. I can’t seem to decide what I want to see on the front. A Christmas scene? A sexy couple? I think my graphic designer is ready to quit because I have looked at over a dozen cover concepts and yet nothing screams Darnell Simmons to me. LOL. I want something that brings in the holidays and creates Christmas anticipation, and nothing is talking to me yet. I’m starting to think that maybe I am overthinking the whole thing and instead, I need to focus on what I enjoy most. Bringing back the families my readers have grown to love.

A Review...Of Book Reviews

October has been a month of spectacular events. This month I attended a wonderful weekend conference hosted by the BRAB Online Book club. BRAB- Building Relationships Around Books organized the Southern Readers Retreat-A Literary Affair in Roswell, GA just outside Atlanta.

     There were lots of exciting sessions put in place over the weekend. One of my favorites was the Author Panel on Saturday morning. I love taking part in Q&A sessions and this one ranked right up there with the best. Panel authors fielded loads of questions from a fun and highly engaged audience. Readers queried the authors on everything from what they read when they aren't writing to how they select names for their unforgettable characters.

     One of the more interesting questions for me focused in on book reviews. Attendees wanted to know what authors think of them. I decided to pass the mic on that particular question. Over the years, I've been rather vocal about my indifference to reviews-as an author. As a reader however, my opinion is quite different and therein lays the purpose of this blog.

     As a reader, I find reviews to be a great help. I don't really rely on them to help me make the decision to purchase a certain book though. Instead, I refer to them when I'm already in the process of reading a story and wondering what's wrong with me because I'm not in agreement that it's a 5-star piece of work. Reading reviews with lower ratings, let's me know I'm not alone in my opinion and therefore not off my rocker- not completely anyway :-)

     The most exciting part of the answers given for this question however, involved the power of the reviews. I learned that the 'power' of a review wasn't so much in the number of stars associated with it, but in the number of reviews a book has overall. More reviews increases a book's discoverability- this term gets tossed around a lot in my line of work. Basically, it means just what is says. A review increases a books potential to be found by a reader. As a librarian I gotta appreciate that! As a writer, I love it all the more. Do you have any idea how many great books there are that no one knows about simply because it hasn't generated a enough reviews? So sad! :-(     

      I can honestly say that I took in as much information as I gave during this year's BRAB Conference. It makes me eager to attend next year's event- Vegas, Baby! 

     Looks like those reviews (good or bad) that I'm so indifferent to, are really a huge help.

     This author still prefers the good ones, though :-)

CONTROL

CONTROL

Hi Everyone, I’m using my space in today’s HOT M.A.M.A.s Blog to chime in about my progress on the upcoming Ramsey Tesano installment. As usual, the more impatient among you (love you guys) are sweetly requesting the novellas that I’ve been known for putting out prior to the release of the full novels. I wish I could meet those requests with this story, because it is shaping up to be a lengthy tale.

Unlike A Lover’s Debt which allowed for an enjoyable novella in Lover’s Christmas, such won’t be possible with A Lover’s Control. I think you guys will understand that when the book releases. The story is so involved; each scene so interwoven with the plot, that nothing can really be extracted as a stand-alone for a separate book. I think once the story is in hand, you guys will be pleased. I would be very surprised to hear from one of you speed readers telling me that you completed the book in a few hours. The story is a heavy read- understandable as it is proving to be a very heavy writing project. As always however, it is a fun experience and I am continually stunned by where these characters take me.

I have not yet announced a specific release date for the story, but I am working toward a Thanksgiving release point. My plan is to make A Lover’s Return ready for a spring of 2015 release. ‘Return’ weaves very tightly into ‘Control’ which makes it necessary to flesh out the last two books promptly without letting too much time lapse. So for those of you who just have to have that sneek peak, you can expect it following the upcoming HOT M.A.M.A.s Event on September 13, 2014. I’ll be sharing the premiere reading with the guests in attendance, so get your tickets while you can and secure your spot in the audience.

Hope To See You Soon!

Deadlines...You've Finally Arrived At The Finish Line!

We all have them...
We all dread them...

Deadlines.

Whether it's to pay a bill, finish our taxes or complete that manuscript, a deadline is sure to be in your life at some point in time.

Now, how you handle approaching such a time slot is the factor.

Did you work steadily toward the goal of completion? Or was there some life-changing event that took you off course?

Either way, if you were on point and got veered off track, one can usually adjust. Keep a calendar on your person or if you're tech-savvy, utilize your cell phone for daily updates. It's important to maintain one's focus, even in challenging times to achieve goals. If you find yourself off track, take a moment to regroup and get back in the movement!

Do not allow a deadline to determine your destiny!

After all, it's just time...make the most of it.


Speaking of such a topic, it's time that I get back to this story for the Embue line.
Chin up, pens up and fingers to the keyboard.
Rule your day and the HOT MAMA'S look forward to seeing you in June at the Fly Hat Luncheon in Morrisville, NC!

 -- Loretta R. Walls aka Embue. #nucherte

What Happens in Cabo....

   I’m always looking for somewhere new and romantic as a backdrop for my next romance novel. So imagine my excitement when I was invited to spend six days in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Not only was the location beautiful but it was freaking romantic!
   There were fifteen of us girls staying at RIU Palace, an all-inclusive resort, celebrating my cousin’s 40^th birthday. We had a blast! And the entire time the wheels were turning and I could see spending a romantic week in Cabo with

someone special. I was even thinking that maybe one of the Beaumont sisters could be hanging out with friends for the week and she meets something dark, rich and chocolate who has flown to Cabo for his frat brother’s wedding. Sparks flies and then it’s on and

popping!
   Speaking of weddings, I had the opportunity to see one performed right down on the beach. Barefoot and breathtaking! And let’s not forget about all the food and of course, the activities. We did everything from The Amazing Cabo Race, which is similar to the television series. My team took almost three hours to complete our task, but a margarita was waiting for me at the finish line. There was also snorkeling (I can’t swim) and whale watching. And then it was all about the pole dancing. The girls turnt up the studio, and later that night we went bar hopping. But my favorite part was just sitting out on the beach, in my bathing suit, soaking up the sun.
   I’m already thinking about coming back either in real life or in one of my future story ideas. Hmmm… how about I do both!

Books to Film

Have you ever had dream to become reality? Well, I did. Last year my publishing company, Siri Enterprises, along with a few friends, and a lot of prayer, took the pages of the first book of my Heart Series, Once You've Touched The Heart, and turned it into season 1 of The Heart TV series

Yes, it was real....LIGHTS -CAMERA-ACTION, type real. 

The Heart TV Series aired on February 15th 2014 and played 1 hour, for six weeks straight. What a BLAST it was. Just ask fellow Hot MAMA's, Angie Daniels and Loretta R. Walls, along with fellow author Nikkea Smithers. They were on set watching the magic come to life.

Imagine this....6 weekends, 6 am - whenever, food - maybe, water - from time to time. If anyone say anything about fine men and body oil, well... it was a dirty job, but somebody had to do it. It was grueling,  I tell you, grueling,  mad fun. LOL!. We had a blast filming an entire season in 18 days. The outcome was pretty damn good. 


Soon, yes, very soon, you will have the opportunity to see the entire season on DVD. Keep an eye on: www.irisbolling.net for the latest information regarding the release of DVD's and the start up of season 2 of The Heart. 

Here's what's so amazing about this. 

Independent authors came together, to accomplish this feat. It wasn't easy, and it broke my bank account, but it was certainly worth it. Here's why. Authors came together to help a fellow author see her books come to life. They asked for nothing in return. Their motivation was to hep me accomplish a dream. No one can ever tell me there is no sisterhood in this business we call publishing, for the existence of The Heart TV Series proves that to be falsehood. 

To fellow authors, Nikkea Smithers, Loretta R. Walls, Angie Daniels, Victoria Wells, Lutisha Lovely, Suzzetta Perkins and Morgan McCoy, and those who wished us well, I want to say thank you, for your support. 

Here's to each and everyone of you who dare to BELIEVE. 

In other news, prepare yourself for the release of The Book of Joshua II - BELIEVE. The date...... has not been released...yet. HOWEVER, you may want to get your pennies ready, for it could drop without notice....

Blessings, until the next time,

Iris Bolling 

The Wait is Over!

  The wait is finally over and it's time for the premiere of the Heart TV Series…

   The day started off with a private screening of Episode 1 at the beautiful Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond. The theatre quickly filled to capacity and became standing room only. Fans didn’t seem to mind as they waited anxiously to be the first to see the series. I was one of those people, who had yet to view the finished product.

   Then the lights dimmed and it was show time.

   First off, the acting, film editing, music scoring was amazing and I was so caught up in the story an hour wasn’t near long enough. I spent weeks working with these actors and watching the director, producers, and the film and camera crew who committed hours to making this all possible. For me, I had the opportunity to work as a production assistant on Fridays so I was there when several of the scenes were being filmed but seeing the final product was not at all what I had expected. It was better. In fact, I had tears in my eyes. I was happy for everyone, especially Iris Bolling. These books are her babies and as a writer I truly understand what it feels like to hold the final product in your hand. I can only imagine what she was feeling seeing it transpire on the screen right before her eyes.
  The women in the audience were whistling and catcalling as one gorgeous man after another stepped onto the screen. The fans of the series were cheering and excited to see some of their favorite scenes being played out before them. I wasn’t at all surprised while the credits were running, the audience started chanting for more!
   Afterwards it was time for cast and crew photographs and interviews before getting dress for the red carpet after party. The event that was held at the Holiday Inn was lights, camera, Action! Another packed house and plenty of buzz. It was mind-boggling the number of dedicated readers who had traveled from Texas, Minnesota, Chicago, Georgia, the list goes on to be a part of this historic moment. We mingled, laughed, took pictures, ate, drank, and kicked up our heels on the dance floor. And at the end of the night the cast and crew hugged and bid good-bye to each other, The Heart family. It was truly an honor and a blessing to have met and worked with such a talented group of people!  
   I crawled into bed and then spent Sunday grinning at all of the photographs posted on Facebook, and people buzzing about the event. The premiere was truly a success. And I look forward to Season Two.

Angie

2014 Events: What Are You Doing? Where Are You Going?

2014 Events:  What are you doing? Where are you going?

 

January is about to be history and February is on the bubble. With snow abound in many corridors, readers tend to love this time of year. They actually love any time of year, so long as they get to read. I can’t blame them in any fashion.

The holidays are behind us and expenses getting paid off, yet and still, there are literary functions you wish to attend.

 

 

What are you doing? Where are you going?

For the first question, have you made plans to attend an annual event and started paying for it? Perhaps an author cruise featuring some of your favorite authors and some you’ve never heard of?

The second question really tells all:  Where is the venue located? Do you have to fly to attend? Hotel reservations come into play if it’s out of town. What all will take place during the event? Readers want an experience when attending events, not just a crowded book signing.

We as authors have to offer a level of entertainment when putting on an event. Readers not only want to enjoy themselves, it’s a getaway for them as well. Meeting their favorite authors, hearing them speak and converse about a character is part of their privilege in turn for their loyalty. Ensure you’re giving them the best moments of their life.

 

One event taking place on February 8, 2014 is the premiere party for The Heart TV Series, created by Iris Bolling. She utilized the platform from her award-winning Heart Series novels and transformed the first book, “Once You’ve Touched The Heart” into a television show. The event will lead into debuting on Saturday, February 15, 2014 on the CW Richmond. Readers and guests will get to experience the cast in full character mode and enjoy what the exclusive screening will unveil.

Readers, be sure to check your local libraries, author’s websites and the like for forthcoming events. Many book clubs put on venues as well throughout the year.

That’s it for now, since I have to get back to sprucing up a few of my own works. Until later…

Loretta R. Walls aka Embue #thehearttvseries #IPE #global #nucherte

I LOVE MY READERS!!!

Gosh! I say that ALL the time, but I really do! Well it’s obvious that an author should love his or her readers. After all, they support your work by spending their time and money on it so…heck yeah, they are deserving of all the love. For an author though, I like to think that the love for ones readers goes beyond that.

MY READERS? They push me so much that it’s unreal. I sometimes talk about how I can release a story and within two days (sometimes less) of that story releasing, I’ve got upwards of 10 or more people asking when the next book is coming out. Seriously? Yes and I love it! Such a demand has been such a motivator for me but it can cause issues. For instance, right now I’m on deadline for my traditional publisher, I have a swarm of readers who have patiently waited for a title much longer than they should have- “Layers” folk, my apologies on how long this book has taken to get to you and then there’s a YA Fantasy title that my agent has expressed interest in and one that I had such an awesome time drafting, but have yet to complete the final version…

Some might say that this all sounds like a tremendous headache, but for an author with a passion (and obsession) for writing, it’s a dream. For an author with a love for his/her readers, all that pushing can, and I think should, be viewed as a motivator. If no one was asking, I’d still be creating my stories. That is, after all, why I started writing in the first place. I couldn’t find the stories I wanted to read on the market, so I decided to write my own. I’ll be doing that long after I stop releasing stories, I suppose, but having a group to share with and glean responses from makes writing all the more enjoyable.

I struggled a lot with what I’d write about for this blog. I’ve been pretty busy and didn’t have time to prepare a post until a few short moments ago after reading a few posts from members of my webgroup. It’s appropriate to say that I owe this post to my readers, but that’s no surprise.

Thanks Guys.

Love,

Al

Connections...Are You Making Them Or Do They Pass You By?

As authors, what are we doing to reach out to new readers that may not know us from a hill of beans? Did you know that one simple post could attract many people that may become interested in your work?

Now, it's true that I'm known as the "Best Promoter Ever" but even with that, I need a little help every now and then. Sometimes, just extending your work can be enticing enough to gain a reader who will spread the word on your behalf. Even if they didn't care for it, they may know someone that does and more than that, respect is established.

Speaking of connectivity...

I have the sixth installment of my "No Other Love" series releasing on December 24, 2013 titled, "Connections" and it's going to be a doozy! If you've been following the series, you'll remember the quiet keyboard player named Wyatt, who hangs with his fraternity brothers and is a television producer during his day job. Well, he's gained a new love interest named Elissa Patton who is a straight shooter. The real question is, will Wyatt be ready to introduce her to the other woman in his life: His Mama!

There's plenty of time to catch up on the series so get started!

Back to reaching out...

Take thirty minutes out of your day and post up an offer to gift a book to a reader that has never heard of you. See what it does and if it's effective for you. In the end, you'll gain more loyal readers and grow your fan base. Give it a try with a couple of author friends and see what happens.

Until we connect again, stay crafty!

Loretta R. Walls aka Embue #nucherte

The Dirty Girl Mud Run- Say What?

So this weekend I’ll be taking part in the Dirty Girl Mud Run. Yes, yes I know I was like “What?!!!” when I heard about it. First the name caught me totally off guard, then it got me curious and then I agreed that the name was quite fitting. Anyway, this Saturday hundreds, maybe thousands of women will converge for a day of running an obstacle course that won’t test the limits of endurance so much as it will courage and determination. Basically the “Run” will actually consist of running, walking, climbing, splashing, bouncing and crawling- yes crawling. Ha! Now, of course, you may be asking what in the world am I thinking. Trust me, I've asked myself; and the girlfriends that talked me into doing this, that very question.

In the end though, the proceeds go towards supporting Breast Cancer Awareness and I am so very thrilled to be taking part in something for such a cause. Checks can always be written and will continue to be. My hope is that by putting myself through this obstacle course, the importance of the cause will be forged by a connection in my mind brought on by the exertion it will take to do more than simply write a check.

While I AM looking forward to a long shower to wash off all the grime; followed by a long soak to soothe the muscles that will soon be screaming my name, I am very much looking forward to stepping outside my comfort zone and doing something I’ve never tried.

To learn more about The Dirty Girl Mud Run and to find out when it may be coming to your area, visit the website: http://godirtygirl.com/about

Wish Me Luck!!!

Al

PARENTS WITH PASSIONS...

PARENTS WITH PASSIONS...

So everyone knows I LOVE to write. The awesome ladies that you see contributing to this blog LOVE to write. We almost live, eat and breathe it daily, nightly… What you may not know is that many of us are moms. Some of us have kids that are still in the home which means they still need us very much- our time pretty much belongs to them. The rest…or a great deal of the rest belongs to our passions.

While making dinner one afternoon, I thought of devoting my blog entry this time around to discussing those passions. I was rushing around the kitchen putting everything together and it dawned on me just how much of my world centers on my writing. Moreover it dawned on me how much of my world centers on my being a mom. When I compared the two, I was very delighted to discover that the greater portion revolved around AlTonya Washington- the mom.

I think that managing that time between work and family can be a challenge for anyone. For parents with passions that extend beyond the daily grind of a 9-5 job that management skill takes on a whole other meaning. Speaking for myself, I know that I could never ‘manage’ that balance were it not for certain expectations I set in place for me and my child back when he was just starting elementary school. He walked into the room one day obviously needing to discuss something very important: His LEGO collection. Anyway, he saw me writing and for a few moments I was so involved in whatever scene I was trying to put down that I didn’t notice him there in the doorway. I caught sight of him as he was leaving and called him over. It almost broke my heart when he stood there and apologized for bothering me. BOTHERING ME?

I knew right then that it was time to put those expectations into place. I told him that ANYTIME he needed to talk or just wanted to sit with me or a hug (I put that one in place for meJ) that he was to come on in. I needed him to understand that when we’re home together nothing is more important than the time we spend together.  As parents, our responsibility is to support our children: emotionally, spiritually, and financially. Unfortunately, kids many times resent that responsibility especially when it means Mom or Dad might miss their game or time answering a homework question or just being there for those hugs. Since I also work outside of the home, I never wanted my child to resent my extra responsibilities that draw on my time inside the home.

Truth be told, I enjoy those little interruptions which provide the much needed mini-breaks (and comic relief) that all writers can benefit from every now and again. The interruptions are starting to wane as my son gets older but he does drop in every now and again to check on me, play around or discuss something important: The latest video game he downloaded. LOL!

How Do They (WE) Do It???!!!

      HOW DO THEY DO IT?

          The remarks in this article came to me on a Saturday afternoon during a late showing of Sex and the City 2. Charlotte and Miranda were discussing “Mommy Woes” for lack of better phrasing-This in spite of the fact that both women have nannies. Charlotte; completely bewildered asked the question, “How do women with no help do it?!”

          I knew I was one of the loudest to laugh with my wine in hand there in the cool dark theater located in the heart of the small artsy town where I live. Later, however, the question crossed my mind again. How do we do it? I, for one, don’t have a nanny. Even though I only have one child, he still takes a hefty toll on my time-many times my sanity. I suppose not allowing myself to really think about all that makes

up a typical day for me, which is one way I do it. Another major way is having my own interests. Writing is my passion and it’s been a blessing to me in so many ways.

          Writing saved my sanity when I was a new mom with no idea how to take care of the small man who had just come into my life. It saved me when I was out of work and it definitely saved me when I embarked upon a new career. Now, the small man isn't so small and writing has become more than just my sanity saver. Still my passion, it’s also part of what I do and it’s what allows me to handle my other obligations so well- in my humble opinion.

          The way I see it, we all need an outlet. Doing all that's expected of us isn't possible if we have nothing to focus on beyond it. I know that I could definitely be consumed by all that's required of me as a mom-keeping up with my son’s social schedule, healthcare appointments and school  responsibilities (Aggh! Don’t get me started!). It’s enough to keep me busy full-time days, nights and weekends. 

          Don’t get me wrong, motherhood is a wonderful experience. For those of us who care about doing it right, being a mom; as Miranda so eloquently put it, "Can kick your ass". With that being said, we can’t be afraid to say- "Time Out!" And it is possible to have that time; you've just got to be creative with it. When my son was smaller and at his neediest, bathroom breaks became my best friends. While he was settled down with a snack, mommy ventured off to ‘use the potty’ and those brief getaways were surprisingly rejuvenating. Small feats-but they work people!

          The great thing about taking on the job of being a mom is that there is no job description. 

It is what you make of it, but making time for yourself is essential. Anything from sticking your head inside the freezer for a momentary eye-opener (yes, folks that does have its benefits) to taking a vacation day from work while the kids are in school (go on, you know you've thought about it). These things benefit no one but you-and that’s the point. We spend countless hours nurturing our kids, spouses, pets… and forget about ourselves. 

So my lesson here? Nurture Yourself! That’s not selfish- it’s survival.

AlTonya Washington

Author, Writing Instructor, Librarian and Mom.

HOT BODIES

It's been hot summer. I mean, HOT!

Allow me to share a few of my hot summer memories.

You get the idea of my definition of HOT? The best part is I never left the comfort of my home. Nope, these hot bodies were sent to me while I had my feet propped  up, a glass of Moscato in hand and a few popsicles when I had the urge to suck something cold and hard. 

Where did they come from? I'm so happy you asked. Members of my Facebook group, The Book Palace, we call them Gems & Gents, would send them by for a brief visit. The Book Palace is where we come together to discuss books, current events and support each other in anyway we can. To take a break from the trials of everyday life, we have an event on the 1st Friday of every month called PAD, Palace After Dark. 

Rules are set aside, a topic is selected and the floor is open. We have guest host to join us and they facilitate the discussion. In June we had Ms. Loretta R. Walls who facilitated  Setting The Mood discussion. We picked up on a few ideas surrounding when, where and how to get ready for that special date night. In July we had Ms. Cheris Hodges, who facilitated the discussion on Toys, Boys, and Toys. Lessons were definitely taught that night. I'm still waiting for my supply of toys to come in.

If you find yourself sitting home one Friday night, stop by The Book Palace. Be sure to bring your favorite cold beverage and a comfortable chair. Some of these conversations are go into the next day. 

Next up, at The Palace, Kianna Alexander. Her topic? Keeping Your Sexy Alive- When Life Interferes.


Come visit The Palace After Dark, where the grown and sexy meet the uninhibited.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Irisbollingbookpalace/



Until the next time,

August 20, 2013

Iris 

www.irisbolling.net
www.sirient.com

Let Me Share a Secret...

One question I hear often from aspiring authors is Ms. Angie, how long does it take you to write a book? Well, that really depends on what type of book I'm writing. Romance? Mystery? Women’s  fiction?

A romance takes sixty days.

My secret is…, I just simply do it. I handwrite an outline then I sit in front of my computer and I get started nonstop. And I do mean nonstop. No editing. No rereading. Nothing. Nada. Zip. The rule is, I’m not allowed to read what I have written until it’s over. By doing that, I free myself to focus on just one thing. Writing. And go at it HARD. Of course the book is extremely rough. Sometimes there is nothing but dialogue for pages, but at least this way I have a general idea of the scenes, how long the story is going to be, and how many love scenes are going to be required. LOL. If I have a chapter I’m not feeling, I just write a few lines then type NEED TO FINISH ANGELA! (by the way, no one calls me Angela but my mother) in big letters, then I move on to the next scene. By doing that I am able to flesh out an entire book in thirty days. Yes. 30 days. Afterwards, that’s when the rewrites begin.

Writing isn’t supposed to feel like work. It should be fun. So as an author you have to find ways to make the experience enjoyable like I do. And as a result, I have the best job in the world.

Muahhh!
Angie