Name:  Kevin Reeves

Home Town: Chicago

Title of latest book: s.m.i.l.e. (www.thesmilestory.com)

Genre: Fiction

#of Pages: 316

Description: Aaron and Aisha reunite after years of flirting with the possibility of abundant love. Aaron moves back to Chicago to be with Aisha and becomes co-head of a hedge fund, while Aisha continues to teach in one of Chicago's toughest neighborhoods. They seem to be set for a lifetime of happiness and prosperity until, suddenly, it all changes.

s.m.i.l.e. is a book of both the everyday and the extraordinary shown through characters that will stay with you forever. Beginning as a hip love story, it becomes a story of how love looks and feels in the face of tragedy. A moving tale of hope and resistance, s.m.i.l.e. illuminates the discovery of the soul's capability.

Mini Author Bio: In 2001, during the second semester of his junior year at Harvard University, Kevin Reeves woke up in a cold sweat and began writing. He did not know what it meant or why he was doing it and did not believe much would come of it until his talent was encouraged by acclaimed novelist Jamaica Kincaid. After studying the art of storytelling for ten years, he finally produced a story worthy of an audience, s.m.i.l.e.

What led up to you becoming an author? Many years of studying great writers, lots of writing, including five practice novels and living the best way I knew how.

*How long did it take you to complete your book? It took me about 14 months total to write and edit the book.

*Is there a particular message in your books you would like for your readers to grasp? I strive to properly capture my unique cultural, generational, and experiential perspective. There isn't a particular message that I want to necessarily deliver although all of my work will have some sort of spiritual undercurrent. I believe that true art comes from a spiritual place and each artists strives to capture its truth with the gifts they've been given.

*What is your biggest inspiration for writing? The fullness and beauty of life.

*If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be? Read as many great books as you can that interest you. Write all the time, not necessarily on a schedule, but you should be writing all the time. Sometimes it will be in your head often, in the early stages, it should be written down.

*What do you have planned next? I'm working on a hero/adventure story called The Legend of Cle Carter, but mostly I'm working to promote s.m.i.l.e. I've been getting overwhelmingly positive feedback from the story from readers and the task before me now is to spread the good news.

*How can readers, publishers, and others in the literary community reach you? Please visit s.m.i.l.e.'s website www.thesmilestory.com to learn more about the book and me. Also you may personally at [email protected]

Name: Anica Walston

Hometown: Petersburg, Va

Title of your latest book: Generational Dysfunctions Vol. I Perfect Imperfections

Genre: Fiction

# of pages: 270

Book Description:

Generational Dysfunctions Vol. I, is a series of stories about four women’s individual struggles.  The stories are outlined by their own poetic piece which gives a small peek into the women’s suffering and pain. These women reflect on their choices and decisions they have made which have paved the way to their current state of mind and circumstances.  Some of them feel regret and pain. They refuse to accept their circumstances until it is too late. Their pride will not allow them to reveal their true identity of just being human.  Then there are the women who will not waiver due to their position and try to embrace their conditions and learn from life’s lessons.  They hide from their truths and live by their own selfish reasoning.    The women’s reflections allow them to ponder bettering their current situations or living with the choices they have made. Their flaws are their internal scars. Not being self-aware may lead them to accept defeat, which will eventually be detrimental to their sanity. 

Detached, isolated, narcissistic, and deceitful are their imperfections.  Their stories touch on issues which women have suffered throughout time. As heartbreaking as some of their realities appear, their situations are realistic and relatable. Generational Dysfunctions is about what a woman will tolerate and deem acceptable as it directly relates to their own conditions.

Mini Author Bio:

Anica Lavonne Walston is a native of Petersburg, Virginia.  Anica has been writing for over 15 years. She started writing as a hobby. Anica is the proud mother single mother of two sons Dylan & Deltan.  She currently lives in Petersburg where she is very close to her immediate family.  Anica’s plans include writing more novels, poetry, and perfecting her craft in Spoken word. She is determined to focus on her purpose and vision, by sharing her talents with everyone.

*What led up to you becoming an author? I have always enjoyed writing. I think I have a wild imagination and an interesting ability to tell a story. I wanted to share my craft with the world.

*How long did it take you to complete your book? 3 months to write; 8 months to publish

*Is there a particular message in your books you would like for your readers to grasp? All women are faced with trials and tribulations. The question is:  how do we handle them?  This book allows women to relate to each character. It allows an individual to reflect on the decisions they make and are making in their life. I want my readers to grasp the realities of their current situations, the positive and the negative.

*What is your biggest inspiration for writing? When my grandmother passed I was faced with a trial in my life. Writing this novel was my outlet.

*If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be? Never lose the integrity in your writing.  Write what pleases God and self.

*What do you have planned next? I am writing the sequel to Generational Dysfunctions.

*How can readers, publishers, and others in the literary community reach you?

Through my websites and links below:

http://www.wix.com/anicawalston/rtg

http://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/q...

https://www.createspace.com/3595576

https://www.createspace.com/3609334

http://twitter.com/#!/AuthorAnica

K.P. Smith lives in New Orleans, LA and the title of her latest book is, “Growing Pains: Kendra’s Diaries”

Meet Kendra Foster. She is smack in the middle of growing up. Oh boy!! Just like anyone in the "maze" of growing up there are challenges along the way. She is facing problems at home and with her family. She thought making cheerleader would be the "best thing in the world." But she learned quickly there are two sides to every coin. As if she doesn't have enough to deal with, high school is quickly approaching and her dreams of attending The Academy seems more impossible with each passing day.

Every time she thinks she has the answers to her problems; they change the questions. But never count her out. Her story is one of determination, perseverance and strength. If you are looking ahead and/or reflecting on things passed this story is for you.

Mini Author Bio-

K.P. Smith has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Xavier University in New Orleans, LA. She also has a Masters in Business Administration with a Concentration in Marketing from Loyola University in Chicago, IL.  K.P. Smith has a successful 13-year career in the Insurance Industry.

She has been an avid reader since her youth. Writing has always been a passion of hers. Her first novel is titled Growing Pains. She currently resides in New Orleans, LA with her two sons.

*What led up to you becoming an author? Whenever something interesting good or bad would happen to me or someone I knew, I would always say I am going to write a book. Life continued to happen. After Hurricane Katrina, my seven year old son was diagnosed with Chrones. I realized life was too short and I had to just do it. I took a writing class and the rest was history.

*How long did it take you to complete your book? I began in 2007 and it was published this year in 2011.

*Is there a particular message in your books you would like for your readers to grasp? I want my readers to know growing up is challenging and you WILL mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them. Even we adults are still learning and growing.  In life, LIFE HAPPENS but we must always Stay Positive, Keep It Moving & Never Give Up!!

*What is your biggest inspiration for writing? Helping people. Everyone has a calling and a purpose. I believe I can entertain people as well as inspire them.

*If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be? While you are writing the next best seller remember it will only be one if people buy it!!! Writing is the easy part but we have to Market, Market, Market, Market!!!

*What do you have planned next? I am working on the sequel to Growing Pains: Kendra's Diaries, the next book in the Growing Pains series, A New Beginning.

I have my own publishing company “Doin It Publishing.” I plan to help new authors with Consulting and Self Publishing needs. I am laying the foundation and plan on taking clients by the beginning of 2012.

*How can readers, publishers, and others in the literary community reach you? You can visit my website www.kendrasdiaries.com to learn more about myself and my book. I am on Facebook: Kenyan Smith. You can also find me on Twitter K.P. Smith@kendrasdiaries.

You can purchase the book at:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615390307/ref=cm_cr_mts_prod_img

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/growing-pains-kendra-s-dairies?r=1

Fiordaliza Charles hails from the Bronx, New York and is the title of “The Poetic Lounge Vol.1”

Description:

This book will introduce you to 20 of the greatest poets from all around the world.

Get ready to experience a book of poems that will leave you smiling, crying, laughing, seeking greatness and ultimately, just wanting more.

Mini Author Bio

Fiordaliza Charles has been a published author since November of 2009 and she has self published five poetry books, a novel entitled "Can I Tell You a Secret?" and a poetry anthology "The Poetic Lounge" Vol.1 co-authored with Co-Fouder Charron Monaye. The Poetic Lounge project has thus far helped to showcase 20 of the best poets worldwide. As she continues her literary journey, she will also like to work with short story writers as well.

*What led up to you becoming an author? I've been writing my thoughts on paper since the age 8, but I began writing poetry at the age of 12 when my father left and when back to our country. In 2009 I became unemployed and I wanted to do something productive. I found a couple of my poetry notebooks and decided that it was time to share my poetry with the world. The poetic lounge project came about from an idea Co-founder Author Charron Monaye and I decided on. We wanted to give all the poets a platform to showcase their poetry to the world and now we are also working with writers.

How long did it take you to complete your book? It took us about two months to complete "The Poetic Lounge" vol.1

*Is there a particular message in your books you would like for your readers to grasp? So far, I think we have provided our readers with poetry from life experiences and everyone loves real stories that could never be reproduced or duplicated.

*What is your biggest inspiration for writing? My biggest inspiration is my mother she stands for what she believes in.

*If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be? My advice to any upcoming author is to always write only about what they know, this voids writers block.

*What do you have planned next? I plan to create more of “The poetic lounge” in volumes and continue showcasing more writers and poets.

*How can readers, publishers, and others in the literary community reach you?

I can be reached at: [email protected]

Visit her website: http://authorfcharles.com/

Purchase Book: GOOD READS & AMAZON

Book Description:

San Francisco, CA – Author Bolaji Tijani-Qudus marks his debut in the publishing world with the release of WTF Moment. This novel blends friendship, marriage disasters, and entertaining surprises into one compelling tale. Plenty of Men's perspectives for your reading pleasure.

Mini Author Bio:

Bolaji Tijani-Qudus lives in the San Francisco Bay area, California. He dubbed as a portfolio accountant during the day and as a bar/lounge owner at night before exploring his passion for storytelling. When he’s not at home spending time with his two sons, he indulges in writing and movies. WTF Moment is his first novel.

*What led up to you becoming an author?

I have always enjoyed reading as a little kid and have always wanted to write. I finally stopped thinking about it and went for it.

*How long did it take you to complete your book? Two years

*Is there a particular message in your books you would like for your readers to grasp? Although it is a fiction novel it has plenty of realism. It is funny and engaging with stories one could relate to.

*What is your biggest inspiration for writing? Wanting to tell stories from a man's point of view.

*If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be? If you think about writing, put it down on paper. You will surprised to see your pieces of journals grow.

*What do you have planned next? I will be wrapping up the audio book/play soon. The stage play will come next and I hope to start working on the sequel as well.

*How can readers, publishers, and others in the literary community reach you?

I can be reached on my website. www.bolajitijaniqudus.com, www.facebook.com/wtfmoment, and www.twitter.com/bolajiqudus

Nicky VanValkenburgh hails from Greenville, SC. Her latest book is “Train Your Brain, Transform Your Life: Conquer Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in 60 Days, Without Ritalin.’ # of pages = 256 pages

Book Description

Do you (or someone you care about) have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? It’s called ADHD and it affects six out of every ten people. The symptoms are restlessness, distraction, disorganization, low arousal, impulsiveness, craving for stimulation, and more. Most doctors prescribe ADHD drugs, but there’s also “brain training for ADHD” that is safe, reliable and effective. It’s so easy, that you can do it while lying flat on your back, with your eyes closed. It’s been described as “the lazy way to get rid of ADHD”. However, it’s also a method that’s used in neuro-therapy clinics across the country, and is supported by empirical research. In her new book, “Train Your Brain, Transform Your Life: How to Conquer ADHD in 60 Days, Without Ritalin” author Nicky VanValkenburgh reveals how to address the root cause of ADHD, by stimulating and arousing your brain. It’s a method that you can practice in the comfort of your own home, without ever stepping foot inside a clinic. Finally, there is a way to interrupt your ADHD and create new neural pathways for peak performance. As you read Nicky’s book, you’ll realize that you have every reason to be optimistic about overcoming ADHD. It’s time to train your brain and transform your life!

Mini Author Bio

Nicky VanValkenburgh is the author of ‘Train Your Brain, Transform Your Life: Conquer Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in 60 Days, Without Ritalin.’  This book was voted “Best Self Improvement Book of 2011” by the Mom’s Choice Awards and “Best Motivational Book” by Reader’s Favorites Awards.  Author Nicky VanValkenburgh is a motivational writer with 20 years experience writing for newspapers and magazines. She has a Master's in Journalism and a Bachelor's in Psychology. She is also a contributing writer for Upstate Parent, Low Country Parent and Palmetto Parent magazines, which are published in South Carolina, with a circulation of a quarter million people. Nicky is also the Director of www.Train Your Brain Transform Your Life.com which spotlights her book and 60-day brain training program for ADHD.

*What led up to you becoming an author? I wanted to be a writer since I was a little girl. In college I studied journalism and psychology, wanting to combine the two but not sure how. I got my big break by ghostwriting a book for a psychologist. He emailed me 700 pages of notes and I organized it into a book. After that, I spent seven years selling his products online, creating websites and newsletters, and writing articles. Finally, I decided it was time to develop my own platform. I wrote a new book based on my journey to overcome Attention Deficit Disorder—and what ultimately enabled me to conquer it- which is “brain training” using a home-based system. Now I also sell this home-based brain training system, which is a 60-day protocol using a light and sound machine.

*How long did it take you to complete your book? Three years. It contains over 150 references from journal articles and books, but is written in a conversational tone.

*Is there a particular message in your books you would like for your readers to grasp? Sometimes people are hesitant to try new things, because they want scientific evidence and proof that it works. That’s why I wrote my book, Train Your Brain, Transform Your Life. I wanted to share the science, mixed with personal stories, insights and experiences. I discuss my personal experiences with ADHD, and explain the science behind the brain training technology. By reading my book, you will be able to examine the facts for yourself and make an informed decision as to whether brain training is right for you. I also share my own struggle with ADHD (which includes taking Ritalin and Adderall) and why I finally gave up drugs in favor of a more natural treatment. The book is for sale on my website (www.trainyourbraintransformyourlife.com)  as well as Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and other online booksellers.

*What is your biggest inspiration for writing? It’s like an itch—I love to write and look for places to get published. I’m driven to express myself, share my personal experiences and help others.

*If you could give one piece of advice to an up and coming author, what would it be? Take writing classes, learn the craft of writing, write about things you are passionate about, and look for opportunities to get published in as many places as you possibly can.

*What do you have planned next? My next project is a book about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

*How can readers, publishers, and others in the literary community reach you? Check out my website www.trainyourbraintransformyourlife.com