Meet Darlene James-Runnels (Ecorse, MI)

DJR is a publisher of both fiction and children’s' books. She runs Blackberry Publications. She has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Detroit Mercy and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Business Administration. She has enjoyed writing since age 8 and promotes primarily African American characters. She is also a Substitute Teacher and enjoys working with children.

Darlene’s tiles include:

"Double Trouble" 2010

"Carmen Kay in the Silliest Day" 2008

“The Adventures of the 3Ds" 2008

“The 3Ds Christmas” 2008

“Catfight” 2005.

Upcoming titles: "Upper Echelon" 2013; "Vita" 2014; “Little Boy Black” 2013

About “Double Trouble”

Double Trouble is about twin sisters whose parents die in a car accident. Eve, the schoolteacher is left with the majority of the insurance money and the stripper Ericka aka Baby is left with a nasty taste of jealousy in her mouth. She vows to get her fair share AT ALL COSTS!!! It's a modern day Cain and Able tale that will keep you in suspense.

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

Darlene: I have been interested in becoming an author since 8. I decided to professionally write in 2004. I was compelled to do it. It is my passion, my dream, my ultimate goal after my first desire to become a mother 18 years ago.

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

Darlene: Catfight was based on the way a lot of African American women treat each other. Double Trouble was inspired by my twins (17 year old boys) who always compete. They are like night and day. Fraternal twins.

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

Darlene: 4 months. The process was exciting.

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

Darlene: I feel I have books inside of me waiting to be released. I have been told I'm a great story teller who paints vivid characters.

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

Darlene: Yes but only because sometimes people have a hard time supporting your dreams. If you work hard at it, they will eventually see that real authors never give up on their craft.

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

Darlene: I pull from the information I’ve learned while a master’s student in the business program . A book is the product and the author is the marketer. Writing the book is just the beginning. Successful authors can sell their book anywhere.

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

Darlene: I have an editor.

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

Darlene: Different graphic designers.

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

Darlene: Yes but it doesn't last long.

UBAWA: How often do you write?

Darlene: Whenever I feel inspired to. I want to produce quality work so I try not to force myself.

UBAWA: Tell us about your last book signing.

Darlene: I was one of many authors who had their books on display at Wayne County Community College in Detroit MI.

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

Darlene: Website, direct mail, promotions, signings, giveaways, radio spots. Amazon, and I'M am a member of the Motown Writers' Network.

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

Darlene: Having the ability to make an impact in the literary world.

UBAWA: Who is your biggest influence?

Darlene: Shonda Rhimes and Oprah Winfrey.

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

Darlene: Yes. I got through it through prayer.

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

Darlene: I take life one day at a time.

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

Darlene: I'm in classes now working on my Masters degree and I will continue to serve as a volunteer for Bridging Communities while I substitute teach. First above all else I will serve God and remain a dedicated mother to my children.

UBAWA: What do you have planned next?

Darlene: I'm currently working on three books Upper Echelon, Little Boy Black, and Vita.

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

Darlene: My website is under construction but readers can always reach me on facebook or twitter.

---