SORMAG Blog

Mesha is originally from Oklahoma City, OK. She credits her creativity to God and her strong matriarchic linage. Each woman in her family has both a creative spirit and the tenacity to withstand any obstacle they face. Some authors are born to write while others acquire a love for writing along life’s journey. Author Mesha Coleman has always loved to write poetry but not until attending a spoken word event was she inspired to write a play which turned into her first novel "A Big Girls Blues". After creating the first novel the flood gates opened and the creative spirit of writing came rushing in. Her works will support both original writings under her given name as well as writings under her alias or what she calls her alter ego: Zephyr Rose. As a new author Mesha is excited about the opportunity to share her fictional creations with you and looks forward to an adventure filled ride.

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

I want readers to be inspired to look within themselves and pursue their dreams and goals. I want readers to learn to love themselves from the inside out. I would like readers to see themselves for the wonderfully made individuals that God created them to be.

Why did you choose to write this book?

I was inspired by a poem that I heard at a spoken word event. The book was initial a play but after a good friend read the play for inspiration for a book she said I should turn it into a book so after that A big Girl’s Blues was born.

What did you learn while writing this book?

The editing portion is very difficult especially when you are doing it yourself. Also it is very hard to write in 1st person.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

My favorite scene is when Jasmine overhears her husband praying. It was very important for me to portray a strong, supportive male figure, similar to my father and husband.

What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?

It’s truly hard to sit down and just write.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

Pat Simmons has been very helpful in recommending different types of promotional material.

What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

Staying true to who I am and what I want portrayed in my writing. I want my writing to be a legacy to my children. I want my mother and father to be proud of what they read from me and knowing the type of morals that I’ve been raised with and I want that to be reflected in my writing.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

I am a very adventurous soul. I recently bungee jumped!

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

Really, this has been a roller coaster ride. I didn’t really have any expectation. So currently I don’t have any regrets, I’m just enjoying the ride.

How do you reach new readers?

Most of my exposure is a result of word of mouth. Because this is my first book I am still learning the ropes regarding promotions.

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

I am a big fan of Nora Roberts and Jacqueline Thomas.

Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?

Share your writings with friends and family. Get opinions from any one that will provide one. The more eyes the better. Don’t limit yourself. Open your mind, dig deep and let your creative juices flow freely.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

I can be reached a www.heart4writing.com. I can be emailed at hrt4wrtn@yahoo..com
Our theme for this month is AGENT HUNTING. Do you have any advice on finding a good agent?

I am currently not represented by an Agent but I am interested in any information you have that may help in this area.

Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?

There is actually a sneak peek of my next book in the current book. I am still working on the direction of this story but I believe it should be published late this year or early next year. This novel deal with how individuals can grow apart in a marriage if it’s not your main priority after God.

REGISTER TODAY

ONLINE CONFERENCE 2009

This is a free conference hosted online. We have a few slots available if you would like to participate on a panel. Contact sormag@yahoo.com

DAY ONE – WRITING FOR THE LORD – August 23, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time ( 8:00 pm, 9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time)

Welcome Chat
Workshop: Linda Beed
Workshop: Maurice Gray

ONLINE:

Panel: Meet the Christian Author – Linda Beed, Cheryl Donavan, Zaria Garrison, Ashea Goldson, Paulette Harper, Michelle Larks, Shelia Lipsey, Vickie McDonough, Wanda Campbell

Panel: Meet The Editor (4 slots available)

Workshop: Understand the Father's Heart and Applying It to Our Writing – Lena Dooley
Workshop: Freelancing (4 slots available)
Workshop: Writing Christian Drama - Jeanette Hill

DAY TWO - NEW WRITERS – August 24, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time (9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time)

Panel: Debut Writers - Rekaya Gibson, Paulette Harper( 2009 releases 4 slots available)
Panel: I've Signed a Contract Now What? – Rhonda McKnight, Jean Holloway - 4 slots available

ONLINE:

Panel Discussion: How to go from idea to manuscript? - Sheila Goss, Rae Lori , Tia McCollors (4 slots available)
Panel: Meet the Romance Author - Francis Ray, Sophia Shaw, Rae Lori, Bettye Griffin (2 slots available)

Workshop: Mapping: Plotting your way to a finished first draft – Carol Shenold
Workshop: Writing Love Scenes – Denise Jefferies
Workshop - Working Effectively With Book Clubs - Tee C. Royal, Jean Holloway

DAY THREE – ADVANCE WRITERS– August 25, 2009

LIVE CHAT:
The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time (9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time)

Panel Discussion: Not Your Mama's YA - Paula Chase Hyman, Shelia Goss (5 slots available)
WORKSHOP: The Contract - Angela Benson

ONLINE:

Panel: Meet the Children Book Author - Shelia Goss, Rose Beaver, Paula Chase Hyman (3 slots available)
Panel: Meet The Editor( 4 slots available)

Workshop: How to Submit – Barbara Custer
Workshop: The Dreaded Conflict – Marcia King Gamble
Workshop: Writing With A Day Job - Angela Benson
Discussion: Entering Contests - Dyanne Davis

DAY FOUR – READERS– August 26, 2009

LIVE CHAT:
The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time (9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time)

Discussion: Book Reviewers - Idrissa Uqdah, Yasmin Coleman, Tee C. Royal, LaShaunda C. Hoffman, Patricia Woodside, Shawneda Marks (1 slots available)

Discussion: Making a better book: Readers - What do you expect from writers/Writers what do you wish readers knew

ONLINE:

Panel: Meet the Mainstream Author - Francis Ray, Angela Benson,Tia McCollors, Tinisha Johnson (3 slots available)

Workshop - Getting Your Book Club/Literary Group On the Map - Tee C. Royal
Workshop – How to journal - Shawneda Marks,Unika Howell-Molden (4 slots available)

Discussion: Have you jumped aboard the Kindle Ship?

Discussion: Share your favorite Author Moment

POETRY SLAM

DAY FIVE – SELF PUBLISHING– August 27, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time (9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time)

Panel Discussion: Linda Beed, Shawneda Marks

ONLINE:

Panel: Self Publishing Your Book - Barbara Williams, Sylvia Hubbard, Gloria Mallette( 2 slots available)
Panel: Freelance Editor ( 4 slots available)

Workshop: Revision - Rae Lori (4 slots available presenter)
Workshop: Internet Marketing for the Self-published - Ella Curry
Workshop: Karen Kay

DAY SIX – THE BUSINESS OF WRITING– August 28, 2009

LIVE CHAT:

The telechats will be held at 8:00 pm and 9:15 pm central time (9:00 pm and 10:15 pm eastern time)
Panel Discussion:
Panel: Meet the Agent – Tee Royal (Royal Literary Management), (6 slots available)

ONLINE:

Workshop: Basic marketing for authors: Why writing is just part of your work – Stefanie Worth
Workshop: Online Marketing - Ty Moody
Workshop: How To Write A Marketing Plan – Dee Stewart

DAY SEVEN – PROMOTION – August 29, 2009

ONLINE:

Panel: Meet the Publicist - Pam Perry, Dana Pittman (2 slots available)
Discussion: Marketing
Panel: Promotion – LaConnie Taylor-Jones, Tinisha Johnson, Abiola Abrams, Laura Major(3 slots available)

Workshop: Branding Yourself – Tanya Bates
Workshop: How To Get Your Print In Print - Cheryl A. Pullins
Workshop: Blogging – Lyn Cote


BE A 2009 SPONSOR

Meet Michelle Larks

PART 3: ABOUT THE BOOK

Tell us about 'Til Debt Do Us Part. How did you come up with ideas for this book?

I have always made an effort to write books about people experiencing real life issues. I know that many people suffer from gambling addiction, so I decided to write about that. Shortly after I began writing the book, I participated in an online bookclub meeting and sure enough the readers mentioned gambling as an issue they'd like to see in a book.

Who are your main character(s)?

My main characters in Til Debt Do Us Part are Nichole and Jeffrey Singleton. They are in near their late twenties and have been married for nearly five years.

Did you have a favorite character(s)? Who and why?

My favorite character in Til Debt Do Us Part was Nikki's best friend Maya. She had major issues with her life but still remained a positive supportive friend to Nikki.

Did you have to do quite a bit of research for this novel?

Yes, there was research involved while I was writing Til Debt Do Us Part. I actually visted a few casinos, not for gambling purposes but to observe customers. I think I described how I think I gamblers feel about winning and losing at the beginning of the book. I also researched Gambler's Anonymous and gambling addiction statistics.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading 'Til Debt Do Us Part?

I'd like readers to take from the story that no matter how insurmountable an issue or crisis may be, that God is still on your side and he will help you weather the storm.

Okay, a not-so-fun question. How important are reviews to you as a writer?

Reviewers are important to me and I am sure other writers as well because they help gauge a writer's skills. Reviewers that take a fair approach usually stress the negatives and positives of a book. Reviews influence readers as to whether or not they may purchase a book. I place just as much emphasis on reader feedback which I get a fair amount of. I feel between the reviewer and reader I will get a fair assessment of my writing.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Life was easy for Nichole Singleton, with a voice like an angel, a job she adores, and a church she has called home since her teens. While Jeffrey, Nichole’s loving husband, has control over the life they are living, Nichole still feels blessed . . . until her gambling “hobby” turns into a personal cross to bear that threatens to destroy her marriage.

Through her trials and tribulations, will Nichole remember to put her trust in God and reaffirm her faith in the Lord, or will she see her marriage and gambling habit as bigger than even the God she serves?
Purchase this book at Amazon.com.

Follow the blog tour at http://bitly.com/TilDebtDoUsPart.

Looking for an Agent?
By Dr. Linda F. Beed

Within the literary industry, the do’s and don’ts for each step toward publication will vary from person to person.

One of the most hotly debated subjects is the necessity of a literary agent. Pondering this alone can be a tremendous undertaking for most. Questions to be asked are broad and can enhance rather than relieve your anxiety.

Before one can delve into a possible search for an agent, it would be prudent to know what the function of this literary professional is.

After speaking with literary agents, I have composed their agreed upon definition of their position and their primary functions on the author’s behalf. The consensus is that a literary agent is one who, on behalf of their client, negotiates the best contract they can with publishing companies. Depending upon the client/representative relationship, negotiations can extend to the securing of public appearances and collaboration on other projects.

Typical Agent Services Include:

Determining the viability of a manuscript
Creating a manuscript proposal
Vetting viable avenues for sending manuscript
Negotiating the sell of manuscript to publisher
Helping author develop a career strategy
Cultivating and pursuing other options for author
Keeping current with and updating client of industry trends

What an agent earns (commission) varies from conversation to conversation.

Typically, it is agreed that 10% to 20% is considered the norm. This percentage comes from the author’s earnings and is applied to income spelled out in the agreed upon contract. Agents asking for payment in advance are not considered reputable and should be eliminated from your list of possibilities.

Being the research queen that I am, I compiled a list of the most common responses from authors and other industry professionals regarding literary agents.

Reasons to Have an Agent

The majority of the larger publishing houses only accept agented manuscripts.
Agents tend to know what type of manuscript a house is looking for.
An agent has a better understanding of the industry’s processes and contract language.
Because the agent is commission based they will work diligently to secure the best contract.


Reasons Not to Have an Agent

Many authors have published without the services of an agent.
Not having an agent minimizes the outgo from your writing income.
Avenues for submissions are not as hard to find as they once were.

Please note that the information above is not comprehensive, but does give the seeking author options to consider. The decision to obtain the services of an agent is one that should be given careful consideration. Determining what your need is should be the first consideration. Do not be in a hurry and definitely ask questions of those with good and bad experiences.


Until next time, remember—Purposely Said words can destroy or create a life. Linda!


Dr. Linda Beed is an educator, speaker, children’s minister and author of Business Unusual. She co-moderators BWChristianLit, maintains its sister online blog and is the founder of the Damascus Road Authors, review editor for KDGospel Media Magazine and contributor to Victorious Voice Magazine.

lindabeed.com / MySpace / On Assignment Reviews / BWChristianLit

Dara Girard is an award-winning author of twelve novels that feature strong heroines, sexy heroes, family dramas and romance. Her writing has been praised for its deft plot twists, witty dialogue and humor.

In late June 2009, Round the Clock was released. This is the last book in her miniseries The Black Stockings Society about four women, one club and a secret that will make their fantasies come true.

Dara is also the author of an award-winning non-fiction book for writers, The Writer Behind the Words (Ilori Press, 2007). Dara lives in Maryland.



Rebel made good meets good girl gone wild…

Anna Marie has spent too long trying to please everybody else. Now, thanks to an unexpected inheritance, she’s got a new lease on life. Her first step? Accepting the invitation to the Black Stockings Society. Still, the scandalous fishnets she receives in her first package must be a mistake. Anna Marie would never dare wear something so outrageously sexy to a meeting with her lawyer…would she?
In high school, Desmond Rockwell was a rebel barely aware of Anna Marie’s existence, or the fact that she had a major crush on him. But he can’t ignore the bold, seductive woman who has come to him seeking legal advice, unleashing a sizzling attraction that proves that some things are definitely worth the wait…

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

Round the Clock is the fourth and final book in my Black Stockings Society Series about four women, one club and a secret that will make all their fantasies come true. First I hope they come away entertained because that’s my primary goal, but I would also hope Anna Marie’s success at love--despite the external and internal trials she faces--will prove inspiring for readers who want to follow their hearts.

Why did you choose to write this book?

In all honesty, this book chose me. Anna Marie came to me as a fully formed character with a story to tell. Fortunately, her story fit into the series framework and I hope completed it on a high note. Also I incorporated my ‘What if’ strategy. What if a woman is someone by day and someone else by night and gets a chance to change it all? Round the Clock became one answer to that question.

What did you learn while writing this book?

I learned that finishing a series is bittersweet. There are characters who I will miss and other ideas that I could develop, but it’s time to start something new and I’m ready.

What was your favorite scene/chapter from the book?

I have many favorite scenes and chapters because I truly enjoyed Anna Marie and Desmond and the people who are in their lives. However, what stands out for me is when after years of fantasizing about her high school crush, Desmond Rockwell, Anna Marie sees him again.

What is the toughest test you’ve faced as a writer?

Balance and endurance. Balancing the creative aspect of being a ‘writer’ (drafting the work, meeting deadlines, edits, copyedits etc…) and the business aspect of being an ‘author’ (marketing, promotion, taxes etc…). Marrying the two realms continues to be a struggle and enduring the hard knocks (nasty reviews, rejections—yes you can still get rejected after being published—and other disappointments). But I enjoy what I do so I take it all in stride (after throwing a well deserved tantrum) and go on.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

Sometimes I give a story a musical theme. I enjoy a variety of musical styles so I may give one story an Afro-Brazilian theme, and another a country theme and another may be based on alternative rock. These styles don’t necessarily influence the rhythm and flow of the story--but may relate to a character or a plot point or just the setting. I find it fun.

How do you reach new readers?

I use a three-dimensional approach that includes unique efforts on the internet, my website, and off-line efforts. Also opportunities like this interview (thanks) I hope will introduce me to new readers.

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

Only three? Yikes! Well, let me see, I’ll probably change my mind in the next hour, but off the top of my head I’d say William Shakespeare, because he was able to entertain the masses through low and high humor, and he shone a light on the truth of humanity that has lasted centuries. The second writer would be Andrew Davies because he’s prolific and writes in various venues such as TV, the stage, cinema and novels. He has translated many classics (i.e. Pride and Prejudice, Middlemarch, Little Dorrit, Bridget Jones’ Diary) to the screen with amazing results. It takes a clever writer to take a story from one medium (i.e. books) to another (i.e. TV). Lastly, I would want to talk to Langston Hughes because I’m impressed with his themes and style.

Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?

The one ‘do’ would be: Write. It amazes me how many aspiring writers talk about writing, read about writing, think about writing, but don’t sit down and write. It’s one of the easiest arts to begin. So do it! Write. For a minute or five hours it doesn’t matter. Just write consistently and you’re a writer.

The one ‘don’t’ would be: Don’t look for a blue-print to success in this field. No matter how many people you listen to, or read about, or conferences or workshops you go to, you will not find a road-map to success. Everyone reaches his or her destination in different ways. Listen to suggestions, but trust your instincts and discover your own path.

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

I love hearing from readers and they can reach me through snail mail at PO Box 10345, Silver Spring, MD 20914 or email contactdara (at) daragirard.com or visit my website www.daragirard and sign up for my newsletter where I keep readers up to date on upcoming releases and other projects I’m working on.

Our theme for this month is AGENT HUNTING. Do you have any advice on finding a good agent?

Number one rule: NEVER PAY AN AGENT. The money flows to you, the author. Any agent asking for reading fees, editing fees, referral fee or anything similar is not the agent for you. Also shy away from agents who say they ‘specialize’ in new authors. They are usually fee-charging as well. Reputable agents have a mixture of both new authors and established authors.

Finding a good agent basically comes down to research. Do your homework. The Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America has a great page about literary agents and what to look out for. I also have several links on my site as a strong starting point. Invest your time in finding the right match, so you won’t regret your choice in the end. A known truth in the industry is not having an agent is better than having a bad agent.

Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?

My next book is called Words of Seduction and is scheduled to be released next year, March 2010. It’s about a former housewife turned hot-shot novelist who returns to her small town, stirs things up with the town’s former bad boy, and gets the town talking.

Meet ReShonda Tate Billingsley

ReShonda Tate Billingsley is a national bestselling author of 17 books, all published by Simon and Schuster/Pocket Books. Her sophomore novel, Let the Church Say Amen, is being made into a movie and national touring stageplay of which she is Executive Producer and actress Regina King is the director. Five of her other books, have also been optioned for film by CodeBlack Entertainment.

ReShonda’s literary career is such a success that in 2007, she was able to leave her job as a reporter with Fox 26 News in Houston to pursue writing full time. ReShonda has appeared on the Essence Bestseller’s list more than 20 times, as well as The Washington Post, Dallas Morning News and Ebony Magazine Bestseller’s lists.

ReShonda has won numerous awards for her journalism, fiction and poetry writing skills. She is a five-time winner of the National Association of Black Journalists Spirit in the Words competition. ReShonda’s upcoming projects include The Devil is a Lie (July 2009), Holy Rollers (2010) and two more teen novels. The Houston native and University of Texas at Austin graduate also serves as a freelance editorial and marketing consultant. She has ghostwritten four fiction projects and five non-fiction projects. She is married with three small children.

Tell us about The Devil is a Lie.

It is about a woman who wins the lottery and when she goes to claim her winnings, her ex husband shows up – with the woman he left her for- and informs her that their divorce was never finalized and they want half.

How did you come up with the idea for this book?

I was visiting a bookclub when one of the members started telling a story about how she and her husband were divorced three years before they found out because of paperwork error their divorce was never finalized. Later that evening I was having a conversation with a friend, telling her about the bookclub meeting. She was intrigued and decided to look into her own divorce and lo and behold, contrary to her belief her divorce was never finalized either. Since I’m a ‘what if’ person, all I could think was What if my friend had won the lottery (we both play a lot)….and the story took off from there.

Who are your main character(s)?

Nina Lawson, her fiance’ Rick Henderson. Her not-so-ex, Todd Lawson and his money-hungry girlfriend Pam.

Did you have a favorite character(s)? Who and why?

I love Pam because she was the total opposite of me.

Did you have to do quite a bit of research for this novel?

I did research lottery rules and regulations, stories on lottery winners and divorce. I was so surprised to see the number of people who, for one reason or another, never get their divorces finalized.

What do you hope readers will learn/discover from reading The Devil is a Lie ?

To discern that true wealth lies in your heart.

Okay, a not-so-fun question. How important are reviews to you as a writer?
I like reviews because we are a word of mouth people and that’s the best way to spread the word about a good book. I do not like reviews if they are not constructive.

About the Book

AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT. . . .

When Nina Lawson wins $16 million in the Texas Lottery, the real estate executive and her fiancé, ecstatically begin planning their future — from paying off their credit card debt, to setting their wedding date, to a spontaneous, spare-no-expense island getaway.

But when Nina goes to claim her winnings, she gets an astounding twist of fate: her ex-husband, Todd Lawson, shows up to inform he isn’t her ex —since the paperwork for their divorce was never officially filed. By Todd’s side, his money-hungry girlfriend, Pam – the woman he left Nina for.

MORE MONEY, MORE PROBLEMS

Between her divorce drama, Nina also has to deal with relatives coming out of the woodwork to seek a payday for themselves. Before all is said and done, Nina must ask herself if scoring a fortune in cash comes with too high a price tag. With a little bit of luck, Nina will discern the real wealth in her heart, not just her bank account—or risk losing everything—to find out what matters the most.

Visit ReShonda online at http://www.reshondatatebillingsley.com/ .

Follow the blog tour at http://bitly.com/TheDevilIsALie.