Tracey McLean is a Richmond, VA native. She is the CEO of Adyme Entertainment and Adyme Publishing. Mclean was nominated for 2014 ACHI Awards  in the Literary  Excellence Category. She is also a cast member of the new show Reality Show Baby MamaVa  and the Host of The Tracey Mclean Show. She is the author of Shaquana Hill, Memoirs of a Baby Mother and upcoming book Memoirs of a Baby Father. Author Tracey Mclean is a wife, mother of 10 and a step mother of 8. She is very strong in her beliefs and puts God before all. Her favorite quote is “Many are called but few are chosen.” Author Tracey Mclean is chosen. She is a woman of many skills under her belt from building and exterior and interior designing of homes, to designing clothes and having a spring release of her bathing suit line Armana-Marlene in spring of 2015. She is planning the  release of her play on Nov 1, 2014  Memoirs of a Baby’s Mother. Author Tracey Mclean is a SAG actor with a vivid imagination!  Author Mclean is also named ADYME in the new reality series Baby Mamas of VA that airs on CW. She has written and directed her own television series Orphans and television sitcom Blended Family that will air fall of 2014 . She has more books coming out in 2015 such as Dirty Laundry; Blood is Thicker than Water, Diamond’s Cage, and an erotica series called Chocolate with all including   a soundtrack. Author Tracey Mclean is on a mission watch her build her empire and visit her online at www.authortraceymclean.com.

M. L. Doyle has served in the U.S. Army at home and abroad for more than two decades as both a soldier and civilian. A Minneapolis native, Mary currently lives in Baltimore, Maryland.

Mary’s mystery series, The Master Sergeant Harper Mysteries, features Master Sergeant Lauren Harper, a dedicated soldier who travels the world on Army business only to learn that the threats to someone in uniform aren’t limited to war. She didn’t train for the dangers she faces but that can’t stop her. If she doesn’t face them, who will?

The first book, THE PEACEKEEPER’S PHOTOGRAPH, takes place in a small Army outpost during the Bosnian Peacekeeping mission. PEACEKEEPER’S PHOTOGRAPH, which is scheduled for publication in August of 2013, was the winner of the Carey McCray Memorial Literary Award for best novel from the South Carolina Writer’s Workshop. THE SAPPER’S PLOT, the second book in the series will also be published in 2013.

Mary began her publishing career as the co-author of the book, I’M STILL STANDING: FROM CAPTIVE U.S. SOLDIER TO FREE CITIZEN – MY JOURNEY HOME (Touchstone, 2010), which chronicles the story of Shoshana Johnson, a member of the 507th Maintenance Company who was captured during an ambush and held prisoner in the early days of the Iraq War. The book was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in the literary category for best Auto/biography in 2010.

Mary also co-authored SOLDIER, GENERAL, MOTHER, SELF (Water Street Press, 2013), the story of how a small town, African-American girl became the first nationally nominated African-American female General Officer in the Army National Guard. BG (ret.) Julia Cleckley’s story is one of tragedy and triumph that will inspire and encourage.

Mary’s adult romance series published under the name Louise Kokesh, called GENUINE DATE, is also scheduled for publication in 2013.

Mary has a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Broadcast Communications from Metropolitan State University and a Master of Arts from the University of Oklahoma in International Relations.

About her book, “Peacekeeper’s Photograph”

Master Sergeant Lauren Harper is part of the NATO mission in Bosnia, a mission meant to be about keeping the peace. Warring factions have devastated the country leaving ruined cities and ruined lives after years of war. While a coalition of armies from around the globe step in to broker peace, the world watches.

But when Harper makes a gruesome discovery, she has a new mission. Saving herself.

Harper, a career soldier, is innocent of the crime she’s accused of, but she’s guilty of a lot of other things, like inappropriate feelings for her commanding officer, Colonel Neil McCallen and failing to train a soldier who needed her help. Worse, she didn’t see the evidence sitting right in front of her face. To get herself out of the crosshairs, Harper has to employ all of her wits and the help of an unexpected friend from across the pond, Sergeant Major Harry Fogg.

Her mistakes land Harper in the worst trouble she’s ever faced. She is forced to choose. If she saves herself, others will die. If she stays, she faces a life of degradation and slavery.


UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?
Mary: I'm not sure that becoming a writer is something you decide to do. I believe it's something that you cultivate over years of crafting words on paper. I first began to take writing seriously while in college. I wrote a few short stories and the process stuck in my head. Since then, I often find myself coming up with plots, characters, and scenes that demand to be developed. If I didn’t put them to paper I would have to consciously ignore them calling to me.

So I don’t believe I ever decided to be a writer. I could, however, deny myself that calling, but why would I want to do that?

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?
Mary: I was in the Army Reserve for almost 20 years. I went all over the world while in uniform. That kind of travel brings you face to face with so many things and so many experiences; I always knew that one day I would write about them. Master Sergeant Harper was naturally born from those travels. She will go to far corners of the world and get into all kinds of mischief. While the character is not autobiographical, many of her adventures are naturally based on places and things I experienced along the way.

While The Peacekeeper’s Photograph is the first book I wrote, it is not the first one I published. My agent, while shopping the book around, learned that an editor was looking for someone to write Shoshana Johnson’s story. Johnson was a member of the 507th Maintenance Company, a unit that was ambushed in the early days of the Iraq war. Johnson and four other members of her unit were captured and held prisoner for twenty three days. I was privileged to help her bring her story to print and the resulting work was nominated for an NAACP Image Award in 2010.

After that, I was asked to write BG(ret.) Julia Cleckley’s story. Her book will be published in August of 2013.

While I have enjoyed working with women to tell their stories, fiction is my true passion and I hope to concentrate on that genre now.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?
Mary: The Peacekeeper's Photograph took me about six months to write. I was living in Annapolis, Maryland at the time, in an apartment that had a great view of the bay. Once the idea for the story hit me, I spent almost every evening sitting on my balcony with my laptop spewing out words. I had the first draft done in about three months. The rewrites continued for years until this year. I know this story is finally ready for people to read it. I'm very proud of it.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?
Mary: I don't know that being an author is rewarding. I don't know that telling stories is rewarding either. The work really isn't about reward. I just like to tell stories and I hope that through them people will learn something. I would love for people to read my books and learn that women in the military are something other than what they may assume them to be. If I could change or alter someone's perspective, that would be rewarding.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?
Mary: Absolutely not. I have always participated in writing groups. I am in a writing group now made up of five other writers. We all encourage each other, review each other’s work, and provide feedback. I would never let any of them quit and I know that they would never allow me to give up either. Besides, it's too much fun.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?
Mary: I'm learning about this every day, especially now since I decided to self publish. I'm just starting though. Check back with me in six months. I can tell you that I have a lot less time to actually write! I hope that will change in about six months when I get these books published.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?
Mary: Oh no, I am the worst editor ever! In fact, there are probably tons of mistakes in these responses I'm typing here. Anyone who relies on themselves to edit is asking for trouble. Paying someone to line edit my pages is the best investment I could make and I will never skip that step in the process.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?
Mary: I'm almost afraid to say. Right now, she has reasonably prices and professional and I'd hate to have her be inundated with other people's work! She's great actually and has been very helpful. She works under the business name of Earthly Charms at www.earthlycharms.com. Her name is Su. We're just beginning to work together on a whole series of covers so I'll be keeping her busy for a while.

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?
Mary: I run into plot problems...difficulty figuring out what happens next, but not real writer’s block. If I had the time, I could write so much more than I do. As it is, I still have to work for a living.

UBAWA: How often do you write?
Mary: I try to write something every day. I may not write a part of my books. It might be a blog post or something else, but I do try to write every day. I found that when I did NaNoWriMo and had to hit that 1500 word count every day, it wasn't that difficult. I enjoy spewing out a bunch of words. Some are good, some aren't but getting the words to the page is the most important thing. I think that some people are intimidated by a blank page. I try to see it as an opportunity.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.
Mary: HA! I've never had one. Check back with me in September!

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?
Mary: I will do a press release, attend some writing conferences. I hope that people who read and enjoyed Shoshana's book will want to pick up my fiction. I encourage as many people as possible to leave reviews at Amazon and Goodreads.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?
Mary: Shoshana Johnson inspires me for her bravery and endurance. Julia Cleckley inspires me for her ability to work through trauma and still succeed. My two sisters inspire me for raising beautiful families and being loving mothers. And Michelle Obama inspires me for having those rockin' arms! I wish I could wear a tank top like that woman.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?
Mary: When it comes to writing, definitely my mother. She loved books. People often talk about the first book they ever read. I don't remember what book it was because I've read thousands and it's all because of my mom. She always had her nose in a book and I picked up that habit from her. I feel sad for people who don't read. I really do. They have no idea what they are missing and have no concept of how their world could expand if they would only pick up a book.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?
Mary: Jeeze, of course. Who lives without regret?


UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?
Mary: The sun comes up each day and sets each day and life just marches on. There is no such thing as quitting, is there? What? You're going to say stop the bus, I want to get off?

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?
Mary: Publish, publish, publish. One month ago, I finally decided to split with my agent and self publish. We had a publisher interested in my mystery series but after several months, I became disillusioned with them and decided that I'd worked too hard and too long on my stories to leave them in someone else's hands, so I'm self publishing. My goal is to get as many of them published as possible this year. It's time for Master Sergeant Harper to meet the world and for the world to meet her.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?
Mary: After I publish the Harper mysteries, I will work on finishing the third book. While writing that, I will publish the adult erotica that I've written. It's a whole new genre for me but one that was waiting to happen I guess. After that, there are a ton of stories still rolling around in my head. I'll need to get to them at some point.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?
Mary: You can follow my blog at www.mldoyleauthor.com or find my author Facebook page at mldoyleauthor. The Peacekeeper's Photograph is scheduled for publication in August of 2013.

Shani Greene-Dowdell currently resides in Opelika, Alabama. She is the mother of three and a wife. She is the author of Keepin' It Tight, editor and contributor of award-winning anthology Mocha Chocolate, and author of Secrets of a Kept Woman. She has received several awards and acknowledgements for her work and in 2011 converted her novel, Secrets of a Kept Woman, into a stage play that has entertained thousands.

In 2013, she will release the sequel to Secrets of a Kept Woman, as well as SAVOR a new erotic anthology.

About “Savor”


SAVOR is a collection of passionate short stories that connect kindred souls for the dance of a lifetime. From the savory taste of sugar and cream in a hot cup of coffee to an accidental love affair, Savor will wet your palate and leave you completely satisfied. From a housewife with a big sexual appetite to a kind and gentle man who vows to love a neglected woman until she knows her worth, erotica and romance have never blended with this savory mixture. Every wish and desire of the heart is a reality as you savor the tempting tales of this anthology until the last drop.

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?
Shani: In 2005 when I was challenged by a friend to complete my first book.

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?
Shani: My first book stemmed from stereotypes of interracial relationships and the storyline took on a life of its own from there. My second book was an erotic anthology and the inspiration to compile the stories came when I saw an image of a woman sitting inside of a coffee cup with the words Mocha Chocolate on the outside of it. Thinking about my most intimate indulgences, I knew Mocha Chocolate would make a great title for a book and even better reading material.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?
Shani: It took me a little over a year. The process was full of taking notes, drafting, writing, and rewrites.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?
Shani: The accomplishment of completing a book is rewarding, but what I've learned about myself as I've written and discussed my work is the most rewarding part of being an author.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?
Shani: I've thought of taking a break from writing, but not giving it up completely.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?
Shani: The business side is very time consuming and can kill creative energy. I spend a lot of time handling the business side of things and try to find balance by carving out time to write.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?
Shani: I have an editor.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?
Shani: Different people. Dynasty Covers Me designed the cover for my latest book (Savor).

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?
Shani: I do and when I get writer's block I write about a different topic other than the one that has me stuck.

UBAWA: How often do you write?
Shani: At least once a week.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.
Shani: It was at Uptown restaurant in Auburn, AL on their beautiful patio, which set the mood perfectly for Savor. I read from my story "Love My Pain Away, along with Tralice Ware who read from her story, Mr. and Mrs. Myers (also a part of the anthology). It really was a special evening.

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?
Shani: Word of mouth and flyers.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?
Shani: I am inspired by opportunity and potential.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?
Shani: I have so many, it is hard to name one.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?
Shani: Yes definitely. Who hasn't? At first, I did not think that I would get through it, but I took it one day at a time and little by little there was less regret and more of a lesson to learn from.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?
Shani: I hold strong to Psalm 30:5..."Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?
Shani: Finish the sequel to Secrets of a Kept Woman.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?
Shani: The Secrets of a Kept Woman Stage Play will be in Washington, DC at the Howard University (Ira Aldridge Theater).

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?
Shani: www.nayberrypublications.com

Born in the suburbs of Williamsburg Virginia, KT Roane knew at an early age she wanted a career in writing. Entering writing competitions in grade school, writing plays for her church, and writing articles for local magazines KT always created opportunities that would allow her to showcase her writing talent. With her debut novel, Vows of Deceit laying the foundation for her writing career KT is ready to take the literary world by storm.

About her book, “Vows of Deceit”

Tony, a successful construction business owner, and Nia, a struggling real estate agent, have been married two years. Prior to their marriage Tony cheated on Nia several times, but promised Nia once they got married things would change. Nia wants to believe Tony, but isn't so convinced especially when she finds some unexplained charges on Tony's bank statement.

With a successful construction business, and several life insurance policies Nia is starting to think Tony is better to her dead than alive, so she enlists the help of a friend to carry out her plan. Nia quickly learns that things aren't what they seem with Tony as well as with her friend so she decides to back out of her plan, but is it too late? Someone is out to get Nia and make her pay but who and at what cost?

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?
KT: Since I was in grade school I knew I wanted to pursue a career in writing.

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?
KT: I have a very vivid imagination not to mention I put a twist on a few true life events to come up with my debut novel Vows of Deceit.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?
KT: It took a year and a half because I was not consistently working on my book. I would write, take a few weeks off, then start writing again. Once I got it in my head that I wanted to complete and publish my novel I started setting short term goals for myself to get my novel to a point where I could present it to a publishing company for consideration.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?
KT: The most rewarding part to me is having someone tell me they enjoyed my book and can't wait to read my next one.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?
KT: As a new author when my book first came out I was very unsure of myself and my book. There were several times when I wanted to give up and walk away but I had to block those negative thoughts out of my head and remind myself if I don't believe in my material why should anyone else.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?
KT: It gets stressful at times but I'm signed with a publishing company that helps alleviate a lot of that stress.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?
KT: My publishing company provides me with an editor.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?
KT: My publishing company provides the cover art for my books. For my debut novel Vows of Deceit Benjamin Moody did the cover art.

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?
KT: I used to encounter writer's block when I would try to force an idea but now I just relax and allow my thoughts to flow naturally. I also like to read the newspaper, watch the news, go to the cemetery (yes cemetery) or take a short drive and that really gets my creative juices flowing.

UBAWA: How often do you write?
KT: I'm ALWAYS writing down different ideas so I don't lose them and I take no less than 3 nights a week to enter those ideas on my laptop and make sense of them.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.
KT: My last book signing was a Books and Burgers cookout I had in my hometown of Williamsburg Virginia to promote my book. I went to the park, cooked out on the grill, sold books and it was great having the love and support of all of my family and friends!

UBAW: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?
KT: Local radio and television interviews, networking events, and book signings.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?
KT: What inspires me the most is other people telling me what an inspiration I am to them and how I've influenced them to follow their dream.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?
KT: My biggest influence is my son.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?
KT: I always try to remind myself to never regret anything because it's a learning experience but there are one or two things that I wish I could take back but I just block it out and pretend it never happened.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?
KT: Prayer and patience in knowing this too shall pass.

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?
KT: To complete my follow up novel and have it ready to debut September 2013.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?
KT: Writing, writing, and more writing. I would love for at least one of my books to be turned into a movie to be featured on Lifetime.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?
KT: Facebook: Author KT Roane
Instagram: KT_Roane
Twitter: KT_Roane

I also have a website www.authorktroane.com

Founded in 2007, Illuminnessence Publishing is the brainchild of Essence M. After experiencing health issues and unable to continue her candle & gift basket business (Sweet Treatz), Essence M turned to writing. As a young child, "Essence" has always been fond of writing about life, love and other short stories that were age appropriate and during her teen and young adult years created an extensive catalogue of unpublished works. As time went on and maturity set in, her mind was challenged to continue and being recently bed-bound gave her the opportunity to hone her craft once again .

Her first venture into self-publication was "Broken Promises Never Mend" which is available on www.amazon.com. She is currently working on the sequel "Bound by Lies" and other works for slated for release in 2013 through 2014 under her own imprint "Illuminnessence Publishing." 

Skillful at networking and using every opportunity to inspire others and be inspired, Essence joined forces in 2008 with the elite group The Cartel Publications Street Team/Pep Squad. This group of individuals was spearheaded by Essence Bestselling Author of A Hustler's Son and CEO/Founder of The Cartel Publications, T. Styles.

"Working with Ms. Styles has taught me how to manage time and how to work hard to attain success" Allison says.”

It’s an attitude like that, that causes Essence to press forward regardless of the obstacles that present themselves. Surrounded by authors and publishers has given Essence the insight and encouragement needed in order to pursue her dream. With so many positive forces around her that are there to assist and help her obtain her dream, there's no stopping this unmoveable force. Her Essence Will Shine Through!

Essence’s Titles Include:

B*tch Clique - a 6 part short story series

All She Wants for Christmas is Love (short story)

Bittersweet

Christmas Kisses (short story)

Bound by Lies

Broken Promises Never Mend

About “B*tch Clique”

You see them daily.... They call and give you the latest gossip. They speak on the latest shoes, clothes and styles. They refuse however to tell you they are stealing your money or sleeping with your husbands. They smile in your face in one instance and then turn around and roll their eyes. They wish they were you and when they can't, they opt to destroy you. Welcome to the BITCH CLIQUE!!! ;)

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?

Allison: I’ve been writing all my life. It was when I was in a bad romantic relationship that I began writing my poetry to voice my feelings regarding his infidelity. Those poems turned into a full length novel.

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?

Allison: I dream them. Usually the idea comes to me and I write a brief outline. Once the characters begin speaking loudly to me I listen. Writers aren’t crazy. We are inspired by voices in our head.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?

Allison: It took over a year for me to publish my first novel. The process was tedious and I published it three times before I was satisfied with how it came out.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?

Allison: For me, it was reaching out to those that I might not otherwise be able to touch and for them to hear and know that they are not alone in the struggle.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?

Allison: Yes but I thought about my sons and how they look up to me and realize that I am their example of faith and perseverance.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?

Allison: With prayer and patience. It's very hard but I make it work. My hats are versatile.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?

Allison: Yes the editor I've used is Brandie Randolph of Editing Couture.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?

Allison: I do my own covers. I have collaborated with Tanisha Pettiford on the cover of a short story I'm working on. Her work is amazing.

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?

Allison: With so many projects, I just tend to switch gears. It's easier than just quitting.

UBAWA: How often do you write?

Allison: I write at minimum an hour a day. Sometimes it's hard with the administrative part and promoting but I do it.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.

Allison: My last book signing was years ago and very successful. I had K'wan and Treasure Blue come out and support me. It was a good time had by all at the now defunct Deja Vu Book Lounge in New York City.

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?

Allison: I find blogging and making myself seen at events very helpful. It’s been a while but I plan on venturing out more and utilizing more outlets.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?

Allison: My mother. She's the reason why I am here aside from God and my best friend. As mentioned before my sons are also my inspiration and the reason why I breathe.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?

Allison: T. Styles. She's become a dear friend, mentor and inspiration. I've known her for about five years now and she's pushed me in ways one couldn't imagine.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?

Allison: Yes. I've done a few things that I'd wish I hadn’t but there’s nothing to do but move past it. Once you forgive yourself it's easier to move on.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?

Allison: Prayer. God helps me through a lot and I am still standing.

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?

Allison: My goals are to release 4 novels this year

Travel

Build a better relationship with GOD

Commit myself romantically

Lose 30 lbs

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?

Allison: I am currently working on 3 short stories and 3 full length novels. I also edit, typeset and proofread other novels. I keep busy.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?

Allison: www.facebook.com/fullofessence

www.twitter.com/fullofessence

www.instagram,com/fullofessence

www.fullofessence.com

The authoress of ‘Messages in My Spirit’ Julia A. Burruss, affectionately known as “Jubee,” was born and raised in the City of Wilmington, Delaware with an innate gift of writing poetry and short stories. Her work has afforded her opportunities to write poems, letters, and speeches for many occasions - captivating her intended audiences.

A 1977 graduate of Pierre S. DuPont High School, she obtained her associate’s degree in Medical Secretarial Science from Harris Careers Institute; a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Springfield College; and a master’s degree in Administration of Justice from Wilmington University.

Jubee worked as an administrative assistant for over twenty years and functioned as a wedding coordinator and event planner throughout the tri-state area for more than 15 years before starting her own business which she calls, Exquisite Expressions by Jubee, a self-owned business specializing in event planning, bridal consultations and coordinating weddings of various ethnic backgrounds and religions. She prides herself on playing an important role in the many lives she has touched during her field in education as an educator and student advisor.

Jubee has been honored with such titles as first runner-up in the Miss Black America of Delaware pageant and recipient of the Miss Positivity Award, as well as second runner up for Miss Black Galaxy of America. She is a member of Omnia Bona Inc. - Delaware Chapter; board member, past president and instructor of the East Side Steppers Drill Team Corporation; Creative Mentoring; State of Delaware CASA; American Association of Bridal Consultants and National Association of Wedding Professionals. She finds joy in praise dancing and ministering to the hearing impaired through song.

Jubee is the mother of Arricka Burruss and grand-mother of Julianna Burruss whom she refers to as her “pride” and her “joy.”

Jubee’s titles include:

The Way I See It

Messages in My Spirit

Emotions under Arrest

Eya Teach Me about God

Don't Hang With People God Did Not Send You

Lord, Please Dress Me Today

About “The Way I See It”

God does not look at people or things the way we so often see them. We, as humans are very visual by nature, thus being moved, inspired, influenced or distracted by what we see. And because of that, many can see an identical object, or person, and bear different opinions and views.

The Way I See It is a small, but meaningful, collection of thought-provoking, motivational and inspirational messages written to encourage, empower and uplift your spirit. It is designed to awaken the taste buds of your life by creating a palatable flavor for living. It will broaden your horizons and enhance your vision so that you can see things clearer, and hopefully differently, than what most over-look or take for granted.

These messages are in no way to state that my views are the correct answers to life’s daily encounters, but only to introduce you to a different perspective of how others may view things. Be mindful each day to season your life with essences of kindness, understanding, forgiveness and love and keep in mind that no matter how we may see things, what truly matters is how GOD sees us.

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?

Jubee: In 2010 when one of my former high school teachers read some of my work and declared over me that there was a book inside of me and I need to write it.

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?

Jubee: My first book that was published became a reality after writing daily inspirational messages and sending them out to my family and friends via email messages. After doing this for over two years, both the vision and title came to me one night in my sleep. As a result "Messages in My Spirit" was birthed.

My book "The Way I See It" is an over-flow of the material from my first book. It bears the same flow, style and logic.

My children’s books (Eya Teach Me About God, Lord Please Dress Me Today, and Don't Hang With People God Did Not Send You) were written as lessons and messages to my grand-daughter. My sister, Jackie, has encouraged me to get them in print so others could teach their children the lessons as well.

"Emotions under Arrest" is my only book of poetry; and it was life, it self, that was my inspiration for that book.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?

Jubee: It took about two years to write my first book since the initial thought for my writings was not meant to be a book, but rather daily motivational messages.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?

Jubee: I think the most rewarding part about writing and being an author is that it allows a wide range of people you can reach and share your thoughts and talent with that you might not otherwise have had the opportunity to reach. I get an overwhelming joy when I get feedback on how my work has helped enrich, empower and inspire others.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?

Jubee: No, I haven't reached that point yet and I pray I never do.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?

Jubee: I have a very multi-talented family and we seize every opportunity we get to help one another. My mom is an incredible woman when it comes to handling her financial affairs. She has helped me in the area of bookkeeping and my siblings have helped by way of promoting and sales production. It became a new adventure for my family to add another link to our family chain of love and support we have for one another.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?

Jubee: I have three people who I have edit my work - an educator, a minister and a friend. They read both for clarity and understanding as well as grammar. It's an on-going learning experience that I openly welcome.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?

Jubee: For each of my books I have designed the covers. I am learning though that the cover is what draws a person to your book but it is the content that keeps them interested in it.

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?

Jubee: I do a lot and when it happens, I just walk away and engage myself in something else. Once I return, I see things a little differently and I am able to restart with a new and refreshed outlook.

UBAWA: How often do you write?

Jubee: I write something every day, whether I use it immediately or not. I keep a file of what I call - Just My Thoughts and frequently go back and pull from it to write something new or to enhance something already written.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.

Jubee: I had an Impromptu book signing at the location of a former place of employment and found it to be more personal - warm and welcoming. I felt the love and support of those I had worked with and the individuals who happen to be on sight at the time. I enjoy the smaller, intimate settings as you get to take time and hear the different opinions and stories as to how your work affects others.

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?

Jubee: I have sent complimentary copies to many different places such as schools, churches, local book stores, etc. I even sent copies to Steve Harvey and Oprah Winfrey. Prayerfully one day, I will receive a response from one or both of them but until then, I will keep sending them copies of each book I write.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?

Jubee: I believe I am most inspired by other women of color who have pushed beyond the color barriers and accomplished so much of what was said would and could not be done. I look at many of them and say to myself "That too can be me" and I push myself beyond limits and expectations.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?

Jubee: I am influenced by so many members of my family (each unique and impacting in their own way for different areas of my life). From my mom, daughter, siblings, aunts and uncles,  to my cousins, nieces nephews and granddaughter....they all influence me.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?

Jubee: Of course...I'm human (lol). But seriously, I have often regretted being so controversial to many things. I never want to fit the societal mold. I always felt the need to "challenge the system" so to speak and do things my way. So much of it has backfired but on the other hand so much of it opened new doors for me. I pray daily for strength, guidance, wisdom and the gift of discernment.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?

Jubee: I do a lot of soul-searching and praying and I ask that the purpose behind the situation be revealed as well as a way to make it work out in my favor. I seek out others who I feel may be equipped in both knowledge and experience to help me. I use a lot of that down time to write (which allows me an opportunity to vent and release).

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?

Jubee: I would really like to accomplish my goal of setting up a scholarship fund for a student suffering from Sickle Cell Anemia to help with educational needs. I have been working with some others over the past several months trying to tweak it. Hopefully you'll be hearing about it soon.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?

Jubee: My next book should be back from the printer and hopefully all will be well enough to begin the sales for it.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?

Jubee: I can be reached at [email protected]

K.D Harris is a three time Delaware Black Author of the Year nominee and award winning recipient of DJ Gatsby’s Book Club Awards, Author of the Year category. She was raised in a diverse community (Brookmont Farms) located in Bear, Delaware. She gives credit to the adventures she encountered in BMF, as she calls it developed her peculiar knack of storytelling. K.D signed a deal with The Cartel Publications in 2007 which produced the bestselling Poison Series, a factual fiction novel.

In 2011 K.D signed a deal and teamed up with La' Femme Fatale' publishing and produced the Bliss and Playground Trilogies and The Other Side thus far.

K.D describes her writing as Factual Fiction because she has a knack for producing story lines that relate to real life situations. She believes in airing out the “dirty laundry” so to speak.

In Early 2012 she started her Factual Fiction with K.D Harris, a Blog Talk Radio show. K.D understands that marketing is important in the literary business. Factual Fiction is her way of providing authors with a marketing tool that will get them exposure.

KD’s titles include:

 

Playground 3

The Other Side

Bliss 3

Playground 2

Playground

Bliss 2

Bliss

Poison 2

Poison

About “The Other Side”

Kameera Oliver’s fairy tale life comes to a halt when her parents are gunned down in cold blood. Twelve year old Kameera is uprooted from the suburbs and forced to live in the pits of Castle Bridge Projects with her prostitute aunt Yazz. Determined to make it out of the hood, after graduation she enrolls in a nursing program and gets a job. After a horrible car accident, she finds herself strung out on pain meds and low on cash. Desperate for money to feed her addiction, she teams up with Yazz and hits the strip of the notorious Cash Avenue. Nicole “Nikki” Felton is looking for love in all the wrong places. Nikki aka the Kim K of South Bridge Projects goes all out when the love of her life, Milk, leaves her to be with Kameera. Unable to understand why he would leave his family to turn a Ho into a housewife, she makes a vow to make Kameera’s life a living hell. In the midst of it all she ends up getting herself caught it in situations that become fatal…

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?

KD: I have always been a reader; writing was not in my career path. In 2007, I was writing short stories on a website for fun. I received great feedback. I continued to add to the story at the readers’ request. Three weeks passed and I had completed Eccentric Bliss, better known as Bliss. One of the readers told me to remove it because I had a full manuscript. She believed I should shop it. I pulled the book and let friends and family read it and they loved it. That's when I took interest in becoming an author.

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?

KD: Poison was somewhat based on experience. That particular book told the story of the people in my neighborhood. It was fictionalized to an extent; I don't want any lawsuits.

Bliss came off the top of my head. It was pure fantasy.

Playground is based off a real club in Philly and somewhat of a memoir for Model Bubbles, my co-author.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?

KD: Bliss 3 weeks. Once I start writing I’m in a zone. No process, just writing.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?

KD: My reward is seeing other people excited about my work; I love to entertain.

Writing is a release for me; even if I wasn't signed, I would write.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?

KD: Of course, this publishing world can be brutal. I wanted to walk away several times. As I stated before I will NEVER stop writing.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?

KD: I'm still learning. It's so much. Marketing and branding are key as this industry continues to change; you have to stay ten steps ahead. Sometimes I feel as if I am still in school with all the research that is required.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?

KD: The publishing house has an editor.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?

KD: Davida Baldwin did Poison

Marion Designs did Bliss Trilogy

Playground Trilogy was designed by Dashawn Taylor

The Other Side was an in house designer

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?

KD: No, thank God.

UBAWA: How often do you write?

KD: I write daily. I don't care if it's five hundred words of nothing. I write.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.

KD: My last signing was with my label mate Lady K at Horizon Books in Philadelphia. It was awesome.

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?

KD: Word of mouth, the libraries, flyers, radio, local events.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?

KD: The thought of someone actually being transformed by my stories. There is a thought provoking message in every book I write.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?

KD: My children. I do this for them.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?

KD: I used to regret many things. I learned that there was a reason for me to endure those situations. They were learning experiences to make me stronger.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?

KD: I believe in a higher power. I pray and give it to him.

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?

KD: To complete all of my unfinished business.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?

KD: To become a New York Times Best Seller.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?

KD: You can reach me at www.iamkdharris.com and www.lffpublishing.com

Twitter: @kdharris

Instagram: kdwrites

Facebook: Author K.D Harris

Danielle Richardson was born on October 1, 1974 in Charleston, South Carolina to the late Janet L. Richardson and the late James Maxwell Jr. She is the eldest of three siblings and the proud mother of 6 beautiful children. Danielle was inspired to become a Domestic Violence Advocate after the tragic experience of witnessing the murder of her mother by her stepfather when she was a child.  

She published her first book “God Heard My Cries: The Deliverance” in April of 2012. She is also the proud owner of http://www.charlestonholycitydirectory.com/ and the Charleston Gospel Publications. The Inspired Diva: Motivational Experience book will be release in spring of 2013.

She is very active in her church, schools and community. She is a Sunday School Teacher Assistant, a member of the Young Adult Ministry, and a Women’s Missionary. She holds a Medical Administration Certification from Low-country Consulting Firm, a Charleston Clemente Course Certificate in Humanities from Trident Technical College and has studied Social Work at Benedict College. She is a member of the Clemente Players Production Company which raises money for adults to return to college.

Danielle is also a part of the Rawlinson Entertainment Company. She starred in the 2011 short film “Ugly" which was nominated for an SEA Indie Award. Danielle is a member of the Charleston Chapter of National Survivors Support Group of Homicide Victims.

Her Motto is: Let Go & Let God. Her advice she gives to women of Domestic Violence is “A women was born beautiful and shall die gorgeous. You were not born with bruises so don’t die with any.” Her focus statement of success is: “Your legacy is not what you been through but what you have accomplished.”

Danielle’s future goal is to hold seminars, workshops, and open forms to increase the awareness of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. She plans to open Safe Heaven Centers throughout the United States, as she continues her spiritual journey using her faith and trust in God to inspire her to write and speak about how domestic violence affects children as they grow into adults.

About “God Heard My Cries”

God Heard My Cries represents the life of a young woman who has been haunted by her past. She carried so much hurt, pain, and hatred in her heart. She believed that she was a nobody and no one loved her. Until she was drawn to Ebenezer AME Church by a friend's tragic death, where she learned how to forgive and let go of things that hindered her from being somebody. God heard her cries and sent angels in the church to teach, comfort, fellowship and pray with her. As her strength grew, she was able to forgive her step-father for killing her mother in front of her and her brothers.

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?

Danielle: I decided to become an author when I wrote a poem about my mother after she died. It was published in my high school's Literary Newsletter. Everyone was touched by the words of how I loved my mom. After that I began to write poems and essays for scholarships.

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?

Danielle: My first book came from my testimony of salvation. After witnessing the death of my mother to domestic violence and dealing with mental illness I had to tell the world how God heard my cries. He answered my prayers and sent angels of the church to teach me how to pray and fellowship. Now I am saved and ready to allow God to use me to help teach other women and children about awareness of domestic violence and promoting peace, love, and happiness.

My 2nd book, A DIVA 'S VICTORY is a collection of poems that I wrote that express victory in every trial I went through during the time of depression and healing from my childhood to adulthood.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?

Danielle: God Heard My Cries took me about 1 year to write. The process was painful at times because I would cry about the things that happened to me. I would just pray and think to myself I know that there is someone who is going through the same thing and they need this book to help them out.

A Diva's Victory was put together by poems I have written throughout the years. It only took a few months to decide which ones I wanted to place in this book.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?

Danielle: The most rewarding part of writing books is that I can express how I feel and no one can tell me different. I live in my own world when I am writing. I can be myself. The best reward for being an author is hearing how my books have helped others reach out to the Lord for salvation. Many people have told me that my book has inspired them to challenge their heart to forgive and let God take control of their lives.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?

Danielle: Yes, right after I published, “God Heard My Cries,” I heard a comment that one of my family members said that hurt me deeply. The person said I should not be talking about my personal life in a book or telling the family business. I thought I had offended the family by talking about what happened to my mother. I thought about taking the book off line and not market it. Then I found out that the person never read the book. I prayed about it and I was told the book was not about me, my mother, or family. It is about the process of forgiving and letting God do his will. I was only following his command by sharing my testimony. Today my book stands as a healing tool to many people who are looking for redemption.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?

Danielle: I am a first time self-publisher so I am learning everything so fast. I used helpful websites and did a lot of research on marketing my books. Now I am working with a public relations agency that is helping me with marketing and promoting my books and victim support meetings.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?

Danielle: I used an online editing system for my first book. I will be using another source for editing my upcoming books.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?

Danielle: I used a free online book cover design program for my first book and I designed my 2nd book cover myself.

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?

Danielle: When I was writing my first book, writer's block happened often. I could not figure out how to write an event in the book without being too graphic or dramatic. I got past it by just writing down what I felt then going back over it to organize it.

UBAWA: How often do you write?

Danielle: I write every day. If am not writing a poem or writing a self-help tip to use for my support group, I am working on a gospel play and domestic violence guide for women.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.

Danielle: My last book signing was at the National Victim Holiday Vigil for Murdered Victims done by the South Carolina Chapter. I read a poem for theme “Strength.” I had a book signing after the program. It was awesome. There were many people there from the justice system.

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?

Danielle: I am handing out postcards, business cards and flyers. I put them in storefronts and churches.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?

Danielle: My inspiration comes from many other women of color. When I see them as mothers, wives, teachers, and spiritual leaders allowing God to order their steps in their lives, it gives me great joy. We have been labeled and misunderstood for a long time. Today we are stepping up and standing out in the world as powerful women. When I look at women such as Michelle Obama, Maya Angelou, and Mae Jamison I get inspired to be the best I can be. If they did it I know I can.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?

Danielle: My biggest influence is my mother. When I was very young my mother told me that my gift was to be an author. She encouraged me to write essays for local scholarships when I was in the fourth grade. She passed away when I was 16 years old. I continued on with my dreams of becoming an author by winning major essay scholarship in high school. Then one day, my dream came true. I became an author with a powerful message. This is what my mother saw in me. I thank her every day for showing me at a very young age what I am supposed to be in life.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?

Danielle: After my mother passed away I stopped living spiritually. I did not want to do anything because she was not here to see me. For a little while, I stopped writing. I quit the band and drama clubs. I sat at home to be sunk in depression for many years. I got through by realizing that depression was not the life my mother intended for me to live. I gave myself to the Lord and began to live again. Now I am in a play production. I have starred in a short movie and I’m a happy self- published author.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?

Danielle: I was a victim of misery for a long time. Being a victim of violent crimes and having PTSD was not easy for me. I cried many nights. I wanted to give up on life but God sent some very good friends to me that helped me along the way. They were on hand to listen to me and hug me when I needed it.

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?

Danielle: I want to open up my school of Inspirational Divas. It’s a program that will teach women how to restore peace, love, and happiness back into their lives after violence.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?

Danielle: If God is willing I want to open up my first family intervention center. It will run programs for children and adults to promote healthy family values. I also plan to write more books. Hopefully I can have my book turn into a lifetime movie.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?

Danielle: I can be reached at [email protected] or www.danielletrichardson.com.

Treva Gordon is an evangelist, motivational speaker, and business leader. She is the founder of Leading Ladies, Inc. She founded the group in 2011. Leading Ladies represent women who are motivated to WIN. Treva grew up in River Rouge, MI and attended the public school system. Treva faced learning difficulties growing up but overcame them. Today she is married with three children and encourages people to chase after their dreams. Her favorite scripture is Philippians 4:13. She is the author of the upcoming book entitled, “Leading Ladies.”

About “Leading Ladies”

This book is inspirational because it highlights testimonies and accomplishments of 50 amazing non-ordinary women.

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?

Treva: In 2012.


UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?

Treva: My first book was God inspired.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?

Treva: Still working on it and about to upload on the 15th to our publisher.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?

Treva: It gives you the opportunity to be creative.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?

Treva: Yes all the time, but God makes a way.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?

Treva: I stay humble.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?

Treva: Yes.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?

Treva: My publishing company.

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?

Treva: Yes. Walk away from it when I can't think then come back to it later.

UBAWA: How often do you write?

Treva: As often as I am inspired. Daily.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.

Treva: My 1st one will be June 8, 2013.

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?

Treva: Word of mouth, send out invites, and local advertising.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?

Treva: My family.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?

Treva: God.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?

Treva: Yes but I had to repent and look up to God. I always turn to Him.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?

Treva: I try surrounding myself around positive people.

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?

Treva: Help more people.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?

Treva: My plays.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?

Treva: www.TrevaGordon.com

Deidra D. S. Green has frequently been quoted as saying, "Writing is like breathing. Without it, I'd die..." Deidra continues to be fascinated by the power of the written word. She has always written, and most recently decided to share her craft with the rest of the world. Deidra has authored several highly praised public works including "The Twisted Sister Series," "Exiting Gracefully," “Woman at the Top of the Stairs,” "Here Comes Katrina," and "From the Outside In." Deidra has also penned a number of novellas and short stories including “Trent,” the “A Letter to My Mother” series, “The Candy Man,” “My Own Mister,” “Bearing Witness,” “16 Doors,” “48 Hours,” “Insatiable” and “Cornered”.

Deidra has continued her literary prowess as a freelance writer, literary coach, ghostwriter and professional editor, as well as authoring several books for all age groups. In 2009, she founded The Mahogany Writers Exchange (MWE), a writing group for adults interested in honing their writing craft. MWE became a virtual literary writing group in 2012.

Deidra continues to move in her passion and embrace all her writing journey has to offer. She has several projects slated for release in 2013 including The Suddenly Single Series, “Sick, Sicker, Sickest,” “Dark,” and “Interstate 64,” another in the thriller genre.

Her titles include:

The Suddenly Single Series

Twisted Sister

Twisted Sister II: Twisted's Revenge

Twisted Sister III: After the Twist

Trent

Woman at the Top of the Stairs

Trial and Tribulation (Short story)

The Not So Good Ole Days (short story)

Liquid Love (short story)

Exiting Gracefully (short story anthology)

From the Outside In

Here Comes Katrina (teen novel)

The A Letter to My Mother series

The Candy Man (short story)

Bearing Witness (short story)

16 Doors (flash fiction)

48 Hours (flash fiction)

Cornered (flash fiction)

Insatiable (flash fiction)

About “Suddenly Single”

People say they understand, but do they really? Bailey Jamison found herself completely caught off guard by the circumstances she faced. At the same time, part of her accepted the inevitable. She really had no choice in the matter. The sudden and unexpected loss of the love of her life, her impending pregnancy and dealing with the mother in law from hell made handling her situation no easy feat. Would Bailey rise to the occasion and take care of her responsibilities or would she struggle despite her resolve? Find out in the first installment of the Suddenly Single Series, “So Undeserving.”

UBAWA: When did you first decide you wanted to become an author?

Deidra: I don't know if I decided to become an author or if writing decided to take over my life. In a way, I have been writing my entire life, in one form or another but I officially became a published author in 2009. I published two children's books, My Forever Airplane and The Smallest Superhero and two books of poetry, Closet Issues and Wordsmitin.' I then went on a hiatus and worked toward my doctorate in human behavior. I returned to writing full time in 2012 and have been loving the journey ever since.

UBAWA: How did you decide on the idea for your 1st book? 2nd book? 3rd book, etc?

Deidra: I tend to get my best ideas at the most inopportune times; when I'm driving, when I'm in the shower and definitely when I am trying to sleep. It most often starts with a title, generated by something I hear or see and the story flows from there. For my first book, My Forever Airplane, it was grieving the loss of my sister that pushed me to pen the story. It helped me to cope to look at how my daughter coped with the loss of her only aunt. Their story is what “My Forever Airplane” is all about.

UBAWA: How long did it take you to complete your first book? What was the process like?

Deidra: My first children's book took 6 hours to write. Once I accepted the fact that I was going to write it, I wrote furiously and the story poured out of me. My first full length novel, From the Outside In took almost a year to write because of the personal emotional roller coaster it took me on. The story is based on real life events some of which were and are continue to be very painful. I walked away from the story several times before I was finally able to finish.

UBAWA: What’s so rewarding about writing books and being an author?

Deidra: I love the power of the written word. I am fascinated by how words impact thoughts and actions. I enjoy the journey of moving from concept and idea to finished project. I appreciate my readers so much because they push me to keep giving them great stories.

UBAWA: Was there ever a time you felt like giving up?

Deidra: I have to honestly say that I have never considered giving up writing. I have thought about keeping my writing to myself again and not sharing it with the world but those are fleeting moments. I love it; all the ups and downs and the loneliness that comes with creating. I know that I will always write no matter what. It is a critical part of who I am as a person.

UBAWA: There’s more to being an author than writing a book. How do you manage to handle the business side of things?

Deidra: I have a great support team that helps with the business side of the writing process. That frees me up, to some degree, to focus on the writing. Marketing and promotion is a challenge and I try to build it into my writing schedule.

UBAWA: Do you have an editor or do you edit your own books?

Deidra: I think self-editing is suicide! I have two editors that I work with and beta readers who read my projects before they go through the editing processes.

UBAWA: Who does the cover art for your book(s)?

Deidra: I have a graphic designer that I work with and I also design some of my own covers.

UBAWA: Do you ever encounter writer’s block? How do you get past it?

Deidra: I don't have a problem with writer's block. If I get stuck in a storyline, I just move on to another story until I get a breakthrough with the one that may have been frustrating me. I always work on more than one project at a time so writer's block really hasn't been an issue, thank God!

UBAWA: How often do you write?

Deidra: I write every single day, seven days a week. I may not write 10,000 words every day but I write something every day. On a normal day, after handling my motherly responsibilities, I write 5 to 7 hours a day. On the weekends, I tend to write more than that.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.

Deidra: My last book signing was at a wonderful networking event. I had the opportunity to meet new people and new readers. It was a very enjoyable experience and I look forward to the next one.

UBAWA: Beside social media, what other methods are you using to get the word out about your book(s)?

Deidra: I use Constant Contact, an email list, flyers, business cards and blogging to get the word out about my books.

UBAWA: As a Woman of Color, what inspires you the most?

Deidra: I consider myself a reflection of the beautiful, resilient and forward thinking women around me. I truly want for my sister what I want for myself so when I see women going after what they want, never taking no for an answer, and pressing on against all odds, I am encouraged to keep true to my own journey.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?

Deidra: My biggest influence is my brother, Patrick S. Muhammad. He is such a wonderful man. He is intelligent, business savvy, dedicated to his family and is a man of faith. He challenges me to be my best self.

UBAWA: Have you ever done something in the past you regret? How did you get through it?

Deidra: I have done plenty in my past that I regret but I don't live in my past. I live in the present. As such, I have accepted my shortfalls, mistakes and I have forgiven myself.

UBAWA: How do you get through the tough times in life when life throws what it throws at you?

Deidra: I believe in prayer and positive thinking. I also believe that everything happens for a reason. My mother has always said, "You can't worry and pray at the same time" so I don't. I pray about it and leave it in the hands of My Creator. I know He has my best interest at heart.

UBAWA: What is one goal you want to accomplish for yourself in 2013?

Deidra: I want to get all the projects on my to do list done!

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?

Deidra: Next up for me is the completion of the Suddenly Single Series and then I will be releasing my novel, Interstate 64. I have several current WIPs (works in progress) and plan on adhering to my production schedule to get those completed on time.

UBAWA: How can readers and others in the literary community reach you?

Deidra: I can be reached via my website/blog at deidrawrites.weebly.com. I also can be reached on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/deidra.d.green