Meet Allison Edwards (New York, New York)

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short stories that were age appropriate and during her teen and young adult years created an extensive catalogue of unpublished works.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

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