Dear Go(o)d Girl with Pamela Smith

Pamela D Smith, Founder of Go(o)d Girl Life Enrichment Ministry & RP Smith Agency launches a women empowerment book, Dear Go(o)d Girl. 

Pamela is an Amazon Best Selling Author, Evangelist, Life and Business Coach. She is encouraging, equipping, and empowering women in all facets of life. 

Pamela collaborated with 8 of her family members on this book and the book affirms to women that no matter what they go through in life they will ultimately be good because they are God's. 

The 4 core areas in the book are motherhood, marriage, ministry, and money. 

The Go(o)d Girls had a sold-out book launch. 

The book is available on Amazon and via website www.pameladsmith.net




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ABOUT PAMELA SMITH

Evangelist, Life Coach, Author, and International Speaker Pamela D. Smith has dedicated her diverse pursuits to elevate the spiritual lives of women around the world. Born in Northern Louisiana, and now residing in Arlington, Texas she's affectionately known as the "Prayer Plug" to many. It is through fervent prayer that she has created a multifaceted ministry that connects with people through a plethora of platforms and projects. Such would include the release of the prayer cd, Quiet Time To Pray, and a women empowerment life coaching community titled, Go(o)d Girl.  She's also self-published inspirational devotionals entitled: E3: Encouraged, Equipped, Empowered and Life, Love, Liberty: A 21-Day Spiritual Life Coaching Journey.


In addition to a Life Coaching audio and workbook titled: Inwardly: The Set Free Life, she's also published a prayer journal: Quiet Time to Pray and has been featured on The Sharvette Mitchell radio show, Diva Talk Radio, The Authors Show, Jubilee Magazine, Elite Magazine,  Glambitious Online, Jazzy Creative Magazine and Sheen Magazine. She was a 2017 Pink Carpet Honoree at LaShae's Business Women Expo. Having an undergraduate degree in Social Science and a master's degree in Business Management, Pamela will soon channel her business savvy into additional efforts including and a collaborative book project with her family. Together, Pamela and her husband founded RP Smith Agency which is a small business publishing agency that assists artists and authors with publishing and marketing their work. Additionally, her services that include life-coaching, consulting, keynote speaking, panel speaking, and workshop facilitation; will continue to help pave her road of success as a ministry maven.

Pamela's first ministry is within her home. She is married to Randall Smith, Sr. and is the mother of three boys.

Sitting at the Kitchen Table by Sandi Smith

MARIANNE HAD PLENTY OF TIME ON HER HANDS TO DO NOTHING, so she decided to clean the placemats that she had collected over the past fifty years. Fifty years of a wonderful life together with her husband and best friend, Andrew. Fifty years that should have turned into sixty, but would not even turn into fifty-one. Her wonderful Andrew was dead. 

Andrew…her friend and caretaker of her soul and mind and being. Loneliness, darkness, and guilt extended their hungry fingers out for Marianne, desperately trying to pull her even further into their world…a world with no escape. How could she live without her Andrew? She had been so sure that she would be the first one to die in this relationship. But now there was a stronger component to her loneliness and darkness that was starting to make its presence known to Marianne. Anger. 

Anger had been a companion of Marianne’s for a very long time, but usually, she had the ability to quiet its demand to be set free. This time, though, Marianne was not sure she would be able to control this anger. It was different somehow…stronger. 

She was afraid and weak. She had lost her faith in God, and she was so angry with Andrew for leaving her behind. Leaving her all alone in this dark, insane world. A world that was in such a hurry to go nowhere. A world that was in such a hurry to destroy everything in its path. 

Marianne was in its path, but this time she was alone. Sitting at the kitchen table, Marianne closed her eyes, and then she prayed that today, she would die.

To purchase your copy visit
https://www.authorsandismith.com/sitting-at-the-kitchen-table-with-god/
Also available on Amazon - http://amzn.to/2GqMAIb


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About Sandi Smith
Sandi Smith spent her time as a young girl combing the shelves of the public library. She has always enjoyed the magic that books have to offer and was inspired by her high school English teacher, Mr. Coolidge to embrace the arts. The author found her calling as a writer early one morning as her first story came to her in the form of a poem. Since then she has written more than 15 children’s books, with her most popular series about the adventures of an adorable spider in the A.R. Achnid series. Sandi is happily married to her inspiration and husband of 40 years, John. She continues to write for her two precious grandchildren. When she’s not penning a new story, Sandi and John like to camp, kayak and to enjoy the simple life in their home in Pembroke, NH. To learn more about Sandi go to: www.authorsandismith.com

Before The Throne with Jamila Moody

Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Writing energizes me. Whenever I’m down or dealing with something, I’ll whip out a journal and begin to write. Writing energizes me and it gives me a lot of peace.

Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?

I considered writing under a pseudonym because I was interested in Science-Fiction.

If you could tell your younger writing self anything, what would it be?

If I could tell my younger writing self anything it would be to, “Stay focused, believe in yourself and no matter what you experience in life don’t let it stop you from dreaming and believing in what GOD has put in you. Make time to write, prioritize and safe-guard yourself against distractions because they will hinder you and delay you in reaching your goals. Stay focused.”

What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?

The best money I spent as a writer was investing in a professional cover designer. The cover for my first book turned out exactly as I envisioned it so I’m glad I spent the money I did for my cover to be professionally done.

What authors did you dislike at first but grew into?

As a child, I would read poetry by Robert Frost. I read stories by Edgar Allen Poe, I read Shakespeare and others. And of the many authors, I struggled with Shakespeare, but I grew to love his works.

What did you do with your first advance?

I have yet to experience this, I self-published my first book, but I am expecting this will happen for me. And when it does, I plan to give generously to my church and depending on the amount of the advance I plan to start chipping away at our debt.

As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?

Interesting question. I believe I would choose for myself either a Clydesdale or the eagle. The Clydesdale because they are beautiful, majestic, strong and hard working and the eagle for their ability to see acutely and soar to great heights.

How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?

I have 3 unpublished books that are finished, and I have 1 unfinished book.            

What’s the best way to market your books?

To be honest, I am still learning about the best ways to market my books. Social media has helped me some and I’m learning to make use mailing list as well Facebook ads.

What period of your life do you find you write about most often? (child, teenager, young adult)

I write mostly about my adulthood now and the things I’ve experienced since turning my life over to CHRIST but I have book that I will be publishing soon that is a testimony of my youth, young adulthood that details various emotional and mental issues I struggled through and the healing I was able to get from those experiences.

If you didn’t write, what would you do for work?

If I didn’t write, I would turn my focus on singing and pursuing that more actively because that’s my second passion in life next to writing.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I do read my reviews. I have yet to read a bad one but I am praying I am able to handle it well if I happen to run across a review that is not so positive.

What are your ambitions for your writing career?

My ambitions for my writing career is that I can write at least 20 books to inspire people in their life and walk with CHRIST. I also want to evolve to write other thing like Christian love stories and Christian Sci-fi to reach more people in creative ways. Ultimately, I just want to write well and glorify GOD in my writings. I want every aspect of my writing to not only give readers something great to read but something that is going to impact their life whether it’s a Christian living book, a devotional or a Christian fiction book or love story – I want to impact lives for CHRIST.

So, what have you written? (*Include books, novellas, short stories, poems, blogs, awards or anything of interest.) I have one published work currently, Before The Throne, I have a blog called Conversations Before The Throne, I have a journal/devotional that I am looking to publish in March, I contributed to a devotional that will be available in the Spring and I’ve written a play short.

Where can we buy or see them? (* include American, European and any other relevant links. Free, free promotions or prices can be included) My book Before The Throne is available at my store throneroombooks.ecwid.com and amazon.com/author/jamilammoody. And currently at my store the special for February is Buy One Bless One (it’s simple you purchase a book and you get one free to bless someone else or you can choose to bless a stranger by allowing us to choose someone to bless. Also for the month of February each purchase come a vial of a special oil mixture of my own called the Oil of Shachach - worship).

What genre are your books?

Christian living, Christian education, encouragement and worship

What draws you to this genre?

I am draw to this genre because it gives me the opportunity to serve and help others.

    

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Author Bio 

Jamila is an intensely passionate worshipper who lives for the presence of GOD as well as igniting the flame of authentic worship in the hearts of others as hers was lit once she surrendered her life to CHRIST on January 3, 1999. During the summer of 2004, that fire was set ablaze following a supernatural worship encounter she had before the throne receiving a mandate from the FATHER to teach and be example of throne room worship: a mandate she has walked in her ministry, her personal life and her blog Conversations Before The Throne along with prophetic insight and revelation concerning worship, the prophetic and a host of other encouragements given to her by the FATHER to share on her blog, social media platforms and ministry.

Along with her husband Carl of eighteen years, Jamila has enjoyed marriage, parenthood and ministry. They faithfully pastored the Spirit of Elijah Worship Center 17 years: founding various ministries like their current ministry assignment Kingdom United International Fellowship, an apostolic network dedicated to birthing, raising up, equipping, training and sending out leaders to advance the Kingdom by modeling Christian love and promoting unity in Christ for glory manifestations as well as healing, deliverance and breakthrough in our communities, region, nation and across the globe.

The Time Will Come

The time will come when God will lead you to face your foe. Will you be ready?

They are self righteous, critical, and out for blood, the naysayers that Jesus warned about who hated him will hate you too. In this spiritual self improvement book on confronting the critics, inspirational speaker and author Nicholl McGuire provides wisdom on discerning whether you have a friend or foe in your circle. She shares personal perspective based on biblical scriptures about foes and gives specific details about the people you might encounter such as: the double-minded, fool, rebel, and tempter. There is much advice in this guide on how to deal with confrontation, not just with those of faith, but unbelieving relatives and friends. The certified Sunday School teacher covers a variety of topics to encourage you to not only face your foe but the issues that keep one emotionally and mentally bound to them as well.

- Learn more about wayward believers before you confront them.
- Know what reactions you might receive when you are ready to confront an enemy.
- Overcome worry and fear that keep you from addressing issues.
- Think ahead of your foe.
- Be prepared for what an insulted critic might do to hurt you.
- Read scriptures to enlighten.

This easy read will empower you to stand up to critics! In this book, you will discover how heated confrontations unveil what your foe's true intentions, emotions, and plans really are! Your foes don't want you to know the truth. This is why they hide, lie, blame, ridicule, and do other things to keep you from confronting them.

Visit https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/729330. 

Fresh Manna with Shawanda Randolph

So, what have you written?

I currently have a blog site where I publish inspirational writings for my readers.  Some are in the form of poetry while most are thoughtful life lessons anyone can use.  While it is a Christian site, the information is quite practical which makes some pieces relatable even for unbelievers.

The same applies to the Fresh Manna posts (words of wisdom/encouragement) shared on social media (Facebook, Twitter). I currently released Fresh Manna: A 40 Day Journey to Your Promise and a New Beginning with God, which is a 40 day devotional/personal growth book.

Where can we buy or see them?

Fresh Manna, A 40 Day Journey is currently available online through Amazon, Barnes & Noble Books-A-Million and other online retailers, to include Amazon international platforms. The blog posts are on www.shawandarandolph.com

Readers can follow me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/randolph_Freshmanna

Give us insight into your main character

Fresh Manna’s main character is the reader.  The book is based on the Israelites’ Exodus Journey as they were released from captivity, discovering their identity in God, learned to live in covenant with Him, and ultimately entering into their Promised Land. Fresh Manna, takes the reader on their personal journey over a course of 40 days. During this time they get to rediscover their identity in God and strengthen/establish their covenant with Him. It challenges the readers to reflect upon their beliefs and seek their promises from God.

When did you decide to become a writer?

I believe writing kind of chose me. I cannot say that I dreamed of becoming a writer although I have always thought of having my personal story written one day.  I truly believed this would have been my first and only book, which I was in the process of writing when I began Fresh Manna. Now, I am realizing there are many other items I will eventually publish. Perhaps, Fresh Manna ignited something I was unaware existed.

Were you good at English?

Funny story. I enjoyed English and writing papers were a breeze for me but I admit, I would always just write last minute and still end up with good grades. Freshman year of college, my professor called me lazy. He had me sit outside of his office and rewrite a paper, after having a long talk with me about my lack of effort.  He was the only one to call me out and challenge me, so I worked harder for him.

Do you believe in writer’s block?

Absolutely! Currently, I am in seminary school so, we are constantly writing. Last summer, while finishing Fresh Manna, I was also tasked with writing creative pieces for a class. In addition, I had four major papers to write.  I shared with my cousin, that I felt that the “bank” was empty.  I had nothing left to give.  There was no way I could possibly write that much at once on different areas. Learning to take breaks and finding what keeps your inspired is the key to getting through the blocks. I spent some time sitting on the beach and in prayer.  Just me and God on the shore. That’s how it all worked out.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

I am actually looking forward to reading reviews from readers.  So far, readers have not shared their thoughts but I highly encouraged them to.  I welcome all reviews. If a reader disagrees with an area of the book or dislikes an area, I would like to know what that is and why rather than simply they disliked it.

I have had positive (verbal) feedback from some people and have encouraged them to share any and all feedback on Amazon if they desire.

Do you Google yourself?

Yes.  So, I have learned to Google myself before publishing my book. This had more to do with understanding employment and internet findings. I was in the military so I was always mindful of what would come up in a Google search.  Now, when I Google my name, it is exciting that my name fills up a page. It is either about my blog, book, or my travel business.  Sometimes, my Air Force career comes up with old interviews or articles.  Pretty awesome.

What are you currently working on?

I currently have two items I started working on but are nowhere near completed.  Both require much more research before turning into actual manuscripts and publishing. One, I can share. It deals with some of the common things we see, do, or hear in church, where these things derived from and how they have been taken out of context.  The purpose is to correct habits and build stronger theological foundations and Biblical principles.  It is a work in progress.

What does literary success look like to you?

Of course, it would be great to sell tons of books. I mean, what author would not want to make money selling their books or have their book on a best sellers list, right?

 Seriously, If I sold 1000 books but my readers were not impacted by what they read, I would not consider that a success.  For me, it is not the number sold rather the number of readers impacted by what they have read that equates success.  This is also another reason I would love to see reviews.  It is great to see the book is selling but more important to hear how the reader’s journey is coming along.

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About the Author

Shawanda R. Randolph retired from the United States Air Force after 20 years of service. God would use her keen sense of wisdom, insight, and innate leadership skills, to help guide, direct, and influence those around her, especially those in leadership and potential leadership positions. It was her discipline, worth ethic, and problem-solving skills that led both superiors and fellow associates to depend on her counsel. As, a result, many flourished under her advisement and mentorship. Even then, she understood that it was God who gave her the courage and desire to watch others walk their God-given paths in and outside of the military.

Once Shawanda received this revelation, she understood what would be an essential concept to her ministry: Identity. She knew that once people discovered who they were in God, they would be more effective leaders. She learned that people often separated their professional, personal and spiritual lives. However, as God used her life as a model, He showed her that the three were inter-connected. He used everything he called her to be to propel her into the ministry full-time.

Shawanda holds an MBA in Health Care Administration from Wilmington University and currently pursuing a Master’s in Theology and Ministry with Fuller Theological Seminary. She is the proud mother of one very special son.

At “Fresh Manna” she offers prayers, wisdom, and prophetic instruction on some of the most pressing issues in society today. Fresh Manna’s mission is to not only to nourish the soul of the lost, and replenish those who have accepted Jesus into their hearts but build the next generation of God’s leaders.

She recently published Fresh Manna: A 40 Day Journey To Your Promise and New Beginning With God, currently available on shawandarandolph.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million and other online retailers.

Revenge Fires Back with JR Thompson

BRADY CLARK'S FAMILY chooses horrible timing for their first camping trip—a night when a fierce storm leaves them stranded in the woods. 

Circumstances that leave him running around in the forest wearing, well, let's just say less than appropriate attire cause him to unleash his anger by physically assaulting his father.

Not yet ready to face the discipline he has coming, Brady makes false allegations against both of his parents. That one foolish move throws the Clarks into a world they knew very little about. A world that could possibly prevent them from ever dwelling together again as a family unit.

Can God use these trials to wake this family up to His purpose?

Pick up your copy of Revenge Fires Back on Amazon.com

My interview with JR Thompson

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Sure. I was born and raised along the outskirts of Charleston, WV. As a little boy, I had a lot of ambitions—I wanted to be a police officer, a veterinarian, a journalist, or a photographer. Well, I didn’t exactly realize those dreams, but am thankful God has given me the ability to write books. In addition to writing, God has given me the privilege of being an assistant pastor at a local Baptist church – another honor I am extremely grateful for.

How did you choose the genre you write in?

That’s easy! I’ve always enjoyed making up stories – got quite a few spankings for that when I was a kid. Haha. Now that I’ve gotten older, I get paid for making them up. I chose Christian fiction because I do not include any foul language or indecency in my writings. I want my books to be 100% family friendly and I believe Christian fiction is the best fit for me.

Where do you get your ideas?

They float in from everywhere – dreams when I’ve went to bed after eating too much pizza, real-life experiences that I can twist into fiction, and sometimes just from my warped imagination.

Do you ever experience writer’s block?

Yes, but only on rare occasion. When I run into that problem, I usually take a break from writing for a little while and then try to pick up where I left off. If that doesn’t help, I’ll try to outline and usually it doesn’t take long before I’m back on track.

If you had to go back and do it all over, is there any aspect of your novel or getting it published that you would change?

I’m not 100% sure, but I did play with the idea of rewriting it in the form of first person narrative.

What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?

There’s no doubt about that one – the chapter called Sappyblooditis. I chuckled as I was writing it and again every time I proofread that section. I don’t want to tell you the details of the chapter because it would be a tremendous spoiler. But I would be surprised if any of my readers would disagree that it’s their favorite chapter.

How did you come up with the title?

Getting even is a recurring theme throughout the novel. Quite often, main characters learn that vengeance sometimes has a way of biting back.

What project are you working on now?

I’ve been working on a Christian mystery titled “Hidden in Harmony.” It’s about a devoted Christian family who return home one night to find a homeless man sleeping on their doorstep. They take him in only to later learn he has been accused of terrible acts in the past. Horrible things begin happening in and around their household. Oh, I better not keep talking or I’ll give the whole book away. “Hidden in Harmony” is scheduled to be released on October 14^th.

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

I would just like to say thank you for your support. If you enjoy my books, please leave reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. It would help me out tremendously!

What brought you to write this book?

I had provided therapeutic foster care for several years and during that time period, multiple families shared many horror stories with me about how children ended up in foster care and about how they were treated while in foster homes. I also heard about some wonderful foster homes and foster families and met some children who truly needed to be removed from their parents’ custody – but those cases were not the norm. I wrote this book to show the world what goes on behind the scenes.

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About JR Thompson

JR Thompson was born and raised in West Virginia. For more than fifteen years he worked with at-risk youth there. He married and moved to a small ghost town in Montana, where God called him to preach. He now serves as an assistant pastor in a neighboring town.

On more of a negative note, JR humbly admits that he is an addict - that's right, he can never get enough Dr. Pepper and has been that way for years.

In addition to writing and ministerial work, Thompson loves the outdoors - he and his wife enjoy going camping in tents (and they make sure to take their bear spray with them - especially since a blackbear got inside their Jeep and ripped up the seats in recent months), hiking, and doing anything to enjoy the beauty of God's creation.

Never Forsaken [Lessons of 250 Miles]

An Interview with the Nicole A Jones, Editor of "Never Forsaken" by Bishop Ted G. Thomas

Never Forsaken by Ted G. Thomas

I understand you served as Bishop Thomas' Developmental Editor on his book “Never Forsaken”. What was that experience like?

For me it was a privileged experience. It’s always a pleasure working with someone who truly has something to say and sound words to share. But I believe God poured wisdom and understanding directly into me through my collaboration with Bishop Thomas.  I’ve been blessed by the experienced.

How did your collaboration on this project start?

Mother* Charletta Clifton Thomas. I was set to work with Mother Thomas on a book but she changed her mind and told me Bishop Thomas would be interested in writing a book... but I would have to call him. Well, Bishop Thomas is the prelate of the Virginia First Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ so naturally I hesitated. 

Mother Thomas told me on three separate occasions to contact him about the book. Eventually, I sent an email to Bishop. Impressively enough, he immediately responded to his email and the collaboration began. That was pretty nice.

Nonetheless, I admire how Mother Thomas was mindful of Bishop and put his ambition above her own.

You said Bishop Thomas immediately responded to his email. What was it like working with an 81 year old?

It was a pleasant experience. Ha ha. ha.  Honestly, I'm beginning to prefer it. You never have to guess how seniors feel. They say what they have to say and keep it moving. I love it and respect it!

Let me also add, I love how Bishop is a senior person but he respected my skills and my recommendations. Whenever, I suggested more input in a particular chapter, he never got short with me; he respected my recommendation. And he went back to the drawing board and added more to it. When we spoke again he had all of the details. I believe this book is as great as it is because of the wisdom and insight he continuously added to it.

What would you say you have taken away from this book "Never Forsaken"?

Pure wisdom. Some of the stories are hilarious but it shows that (for all of us) it takes a process to get to where were going in God. But it’s a blessing to hear and read how God is still rewarding our faithfulness and obedience to Him when we put Him first.

Where can we find Bishop Thomas’ book “Never Forsaken”?

Bishop’s team will release the book on August 26, 2017 but you can pre-order as early as July 4th. The books will be available online in paperback and e-book formats.  But of course you can always contact New Community Temple Church of God in Christ in Portsmouth, VA and someone there can assist.

June 29, 2017

Interview with Nicole A. Jones

Developmental Editor of Bishop Thomas’ memoir “Never Forsaken”

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Never Forsaken is a profound memoir of Bishop Ted G. Thomas Sr. It chronicles his journey from Hoke County, North Carolina to Norfolk, Virginia and beyond.

Each experience gained from his two hundred and fifty mile transition to the city and his upward climb to community and church leadership transforms into powerful messages and principles that encourages each reader to apply to their lives.

This book recounts Bishop Thomas’ life of humility through submission to God and obedience to the scriptures.  He affirms that if we seek God by putting Him first in our lives, the material possessions we desire will be added to us.

*Mother or Mother of the Church: Mother of the Church (in Latin Mater Ecclesiae) is a title, officially given to Mary during the Second Vatican Council by Pope Paul VI. The title was first used in the 4th century by Saint Ambrose of Milan, as rediscovered by Hugo Rahner. Serving in such Christian denominations as the Baptist and Pentecostal  predominantly African-American churches, "Mother" though shortened is used as a title of respect. 


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Does writing energize or exhaust you?

Writing energizes me.  Anytime I can share what God has put on my heart that gives me a burst of energy.  Being able to impact lives in a positive manner gets my blood pumping!

What are common traps for aspiring writers?

Initially for me it was just getting started.  We have all these great ideas and we know that there is a book in us but we lack the confidence to even believe that someone would want to read what I wrote.  Even when family and friends encourage you. 

What is your writing Kryptonite?

It takes me a while to get the thoughts organized.  Trying to stay focused on one project at a time can be challenging when you are receiving so much input.  I have journals all over the house!

Do you think someone could be a writer if they don’t feel emotions strongly?

Absolutely.  You don’t have to be emotional to write a technical piece.  It depends on what audience you are trying to reach, what story are you trying to tell or share. 

What other authors are you friends with, and how do they help you become a better writer?

LaWanda Holliman, co-author of Madam President, has been instrumental in helping me organize ideas.  She helps me see the big picture.

Cynthia Middlebrooks Harris, Author of The Other Side of Through, has mentored me in the business aspects of authorship, marketing and introduced me to a litany of tools to help refine my writing.

 Do you want each book to stand on its own, or are you trying to build a body of work with connections between each book?

I want each book to stand on it’s own.  The only connection between my writings would be they remind us that God is ultimately in control.

How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?

I am still in disbelief that I’m a published author!  The process has given me insight about audiences and how they receive your work.  Trying to get them to write reviews though, has been a challenge. 

What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?

PR Materials.  A banner, business cards and a table skirt can do wonders for your marketing strategy.  When engaged in a book signing, the public will see your set up and make judgments about your book.  What they see tells a story as well as the one you wrote.

What was an early experience where you learned that language had power?

As a member of the Armed Forces I responded to the words of drill sergeants and leaders across my career that have motivated me to do things I never thought I could do.  Impassioned speeches that moved me to action and have made me the leader I am today.  I use words and language to motivate people to take a stand, move forward or take a look back.  Words are powerful – Proverbs 18:21 states “Life and death are in the power of the tongue”.   

How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?

I have a collage of poetry – just need to sort through them and discover the themes for each book or books.  I love discovering how God is going to pull it together.

   

What does literary success look like to you?

The dream is to one day be on the New York Times Best Seller List, but the measure of my success is if lives are positively impacted and changed because someone read my book or heard me speak.  

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You can pick up a copy of 

From the Situation to the Destination 

by Leslie Dillard

Lulu Publishers: http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/Dillardl

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Situation-Destination-Leslie-Dillard/dp/1365434508

I Do... 25 Years Later: An Interview with Susan Braxton

I Do... 25 Years Later: When A Military Adventure Leads To An Easter Elopement! by Susan Braxton

How did this book come about? 

I was working on several writing projects but couldn't decide which to really buckle down and get published.  After reading an email from one of my ebook coaches, I took couple of days and just focused on which book should be first.  When this came up in my spirit I was surprised because I had not planned on it all. This book actually evolved from a video that was created as a gift. I noticed how people (young/old/married/single) had the same reactions to the certain parts, causing laughter or amazement, etc., so I decided to turn the video into a book. 

Can you remember when you decided you wanted to publish your work? 

Yes! Back in the early 1990s.  That's when I decided to write using my pen name, Susan Braxton which was inspired by my mother's maiden name.  A lot of time has passed since that decision but I've been pretty busy with Life so it doesn't feel that long ago.

What is your favorite genre?  

When I was young kid it was mystery like Nancy Drew series but as an adult I love Harlequin Special Edition romance novels.

Tell us about the Lewis'.

The Lewis' walk us through their life together. They've created a special video for their 25th wedding anniversary as a gift for their children. They recap what happens when military adventures lead to an EASTER elopement! What happened when a small town country boy and a city girl's world collide, all the exciting places they traveled together and they each take turns sharing special, wacky stories about their many adventures. This was a really fun project for me and I would love to see it go from book to movie. 

What can someone expect from reading your book? 

One reader, after turning down a marriage proposal several times, decided to give love another chance and eloped!  Others have said they've been inspired not to give up on getting married and one husband said he was inspired to work on his marriage.

Which chapter is your favorite?  

I would have to say chapter 7 which covers the Easter elopement which is so romantic! I hope people become inspired by the story to stay open to love! Relationships, especially marriage, takes effort and work but at the same time you can have so much fun!   

Was Indie publishing your first route of choice for publishing?  

No, back in the 90's the traditional publishing route was all I knew.  I started attending seminars and taking classes which all seemed to be leaning towards giving Indie publishing a try … I did!  It has been wonderful & empowering, I'm so glad I overcame all the hesitations.

Do you have any advice for someone considering writing their first novel? 

Yes - pursue it! Get your story out of your head and in written form. Connect with the resources to publish and don't give up until you accomplish it!  


What have the responses from readers been?  

I've received really great feedback and I'm glad I followed through with publishing it.  A couple of comments that were awesome:  “Humorous, enjoyable quick read!  Educational for young couples”  “…A beautiful story and most worth-while undertaking! It is spirit-filled and so heart-touching.”

Do you have anything else you'd like to share about the book?  

There is a nugget inside waiting just for you that will at the appointed time inspire you just when you needed it!

Find Me:

twitter: https://twitter.com/susan_braxton

FB: https://www.facebook.com/Susan-Braxton-747735938678130/

Website: www.IDo25yearslater.com


Available on Amazon: www.amzn.to/19caEvY