Monday, January 30, 2012

Author of the Week: Dash The Author

Dash The Author

A&RBC: How did you become a writer?
Dash: You’re going to have me think back I see… I used to write poems to perform in church for fun. I never thought of it as a gateway to become an author or to make money. I wrote as a way to express myself and the emotions I felt as a kid. Then I wrote my first book “A Second Chance at a First Impression” which is a lot different from my current novel and future projects, but what I remember the most was the fear of having your work out there and it not being received like I intended, but that’s another story.

A&RBC: Where does your inspiration for your characters come from?
Dash: My characters all come from life; from the people that I encounter day to day and things that I have done in the past and even now. I love looking a different scenarios and thinking about how a situation would be if I chose “left” instead of “right” or this woman instead of that woman. Basically, I allow my mind to roam free and see what happens from there.


A&RBC: What are you hoping readers take from your book?
Dash: With the overall series of this book I want my readers to fully understand what happens when you allow an addiction to consume you. I want people to see and feel dangers of addiction through the eyes of my very real characters.

A&RBC: If you were to write a book about a controversial topic, what would it be?
Dash: It would be this book “Half past Sex, Chapter 1” because I deal with the hypocrisy of women as it relates to emotions and treatment of males. This book deals with those individuals that love sex but mask their love by belittling those that have chose to seek help for their issues. Finally, I wanted to show that men are the true victims of a broken heart.

A&RBC: Most writers have a process or method for writing their books, what is yours?
Dash: Having sex, but no seriously having sex. Additionally, living is important; it is important that in this book my charter portal are authentic so when something happens people could see a friend or family member that has endured the various themes within this book and be able to relate. In addition to my own persona I interviewed 50 women to find out their thoughts, desire, their dirty laundry, and after I did that I outlined the story and plot, followed by further research in topics of addiction. I listened to other people stories, I read other peoples stories on the same topic  and I outlined more after I finished and I got to a spot where I was comfortable with were my story should be and how I conveyed it  the first thing I developed after the outline was my characters then the world around them. Finally, I presented them, rather I put them in the scenarios I spoke of with the women I interviewed to see how they would respond.

A&RBC: What is your favorite genre of books?
Dash: My favorite has to be mystery suspense novels. I love a good story that feels authentic and makes me feel involved. In addition the a suspense novels involvement, the book has to really take me there and educate me if I am unfamiliar with a topic like a Dan Brown novel.

A&RBC: Are you an avid or occasional reader?
Dash: I guess I’m both if I could be both. I love to read for the knowledge it brings and to stay on topic and to know what’s out there. I can’t say that day after day I’m reading a book because I have things to do so as an occasional reader I would have to say I pick up a book people would refer to me because they think they know me, so I pick up on their recommendation.

A&RBC: What are two things you want your readers to know about you?
Dash: First and foremost, I would like my readers to know these characters in “Half Past Sex, Chapter 1”… rather that Najee is not me. Also it is important that my readers understand that I do everything with a purpose down to the smallest detail.

A&RBC: If you could interview one of your favorite authors, who would it be? Why?
Dash: I don’t really have a favorite author because I think everyone has a message and they convey it differently, but if I had to interview someone it would be Khalil Gibran because the masterpiece he created when he wrote “The Prophet” changed my life forever pity that he is no longer with us because I could have surly used him as a mentor.

A&RBC: What is or was your dream job?
Dash: My dream job would to teach creative writing at my old High School. Art is one of our last forms of freedom of speech and once that is taken away I am fearful of what will happen to future generations, so I feel as a writer it is important to cultivate future generations so that writing creatively doesn’t become a lost art form.

A&RBC: What new projects are you working on?
Dash: Currently I’m working on “Half Past Sex, Chapter 2 and 3” and “Like Puzzle Pieces” each book is scheduled to be released year after year so I am a busy bee. I also started my own company called Write Hand Entertainment (check me out http://www.writehandent.com/) we been producing show since 2006.

A&RBC: Where can readers find you?
Dash: Check me out at http://www.theycallmedash.com/, http://www.writehandent.com/, Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com. Hit me on Twitter @DaRealDash I always respond to my messages, or find me on Facebook on dash my Fan Page.

Authors & Readers Book Corner appreciates your time!

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Saturday Suggestion: Fatal Vengeance

Purchase at Amazon.com
About The Book
Alex Simmons is the consummate player. That is, until he finds himself torn between two women. One he wants to marry and the other has given him an opportunity of a lifetime in exchange for his hand in marriage.  
Dana Simmons is in love with street thug, Malik Mitchell, who uses his painful past to capture her heart. When Malik disappears, Dana, suspects her brothers, Guy and Alex, of foul play.

Cassandra (Cassie) Simmons is having an identity crisis. Cassie becomes a victim of blackmail. She is backed up against the wall as she wrestles with paying her extortionist to keep quiet about her alleged sexual desires. 
Guy Simmons takes measures to protect his siblings from the pitfalls of life, while struggling to maintain his perfect marriage to Regine Croswell-Simmons.
While seeking vengeance on one another's behalf, the siblings resort to the unthinkable. Ultimately, their actions have fatal consequences that leaves you in suspense until the very end.   

About the Author
Dorothy J. Morris was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. She is currently working on the third and final installment in the Fatal Trilogy. She lives in Maryland with her husband and two daughters. To learn more about this author visit dorothyjmorris.com

























Book Review: Alec London: Making The Team

Purchase at Amazon.com
Alec London: Making The Team

Stephanie Perry Moore & Derrick Moore
 
4 Stars
 
In Alec London: Making the Team by Stephanie Perry Moore and Derrick Moore, Alec is a typical kid dealing with school and family. Alec becomes upset because his mother leaves for a job opportunity in another city. Alec is left with his father and a brother who tortures him. In addition, Alec’s grandmother comes to live with them to help and nothing is the same.

Alec’s sees there is a strain on his relationship with his parents especially when he finds out that his father will be working at his school. Alec’s father is trying his best to keep his family together but it is getting harder every day. Alec turns to his friends Morgan and Trey to help him get through his troubles. When Alec realizes that his father will always be there for him and his mother’s love never goes away all of his worries seem small.

Making the Team is about a young boy dealing with issues within his family while trying to live a normal life. This is an exceptional book for youth because it deals with realistic issues that we see in families every day. I love the end of the chapter letters and word finds these activities will help young readers understand the message from the book. The plot and characters were well developed. I recommend this book to readers in the age range of 8-12.

This book was provided by TyWebbin Creations for review purposes.

Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews

Friday, January 27, 2012

Alec London Virtual Book Tour with Stephanie & Derrick Moore


How did you become a writer?
In the seventh grade I knew I was a writer. My teachers and   parents found my gift and helped me cultivate my passion. I started writing Christian fiction about twenty years ago. I was reading Terry McMillian's novel and Max Lucado's book. I wanted a mixture and did not   find one in the Christian bookstore. The Lord told me to write for Him.

Where does your inspiration for your characters come from?
I speak to youth across the country and spending time with students gives me inspiration and ideas.  

What are you hoping readers take from your book?
I pray my readers are inspired and entertained. I also hope they learn they can still be cool, yet live for God   daily.

If you were to write a book about a controversial topic, what would it be?
My newest titles coming out in the spring deal with molestation and gay issues. I hope   I've done both tough topics justice.

Most writers have a process or method for writing their books, what is yours?
My method is that I first outline every title. I get that approved   by the publisher. I then pray and dream of the characters. Then I talk   into a hand held tape recorder. I send the bit file to my assistants and they   transcribe the chapter. It is sent back to them and I edit and edit and edit. :-)

What is   your favorite genre of books?
I love reading historical romance titles.

Are you an avid or occasional reader?
I enjoy reading. It takes me to new places and warms my soul.

What are two things you want your readers to know about you?
I write to uplift people and I believe everyone can reach their potential.

If you could interview one of your favorite authors, who would it be? Why?
I would be honored to talk to Alex Haley. His writing changed me and I know he could share insights that would make me better.
What is or was your dream job?
I'd love to be an executive producer and to turn my works into tv/film projects.

What new projects are you working on?
I am currently writing two series that cross over. Cheer Drama is about five popular cheerleaders at an urban high school.   Baller Swag is about the five football players at the same school whom   the girls date. These ten novels deal will real life issues and will inspire   young people to have swag in every aspect of their lives.

I am also the co-editor for a new African-American women's bible called Sisters in Faith. It is a devotional product that will release January 2013.

Where can readers find you?
To learn more about my work and ministry, readers can visit me at: http://www.stephanieperrymoore.com/


About the Books


INTRODUCING THE ALEC LONDON SERIES
The Alec London Series is a series written for boys, 8 – 12 years old. Alec London is introduced in Stephanie Perry Moore’s previously released series, The Morgan Love Series. In this new series, readers get a glimpse of Alec’s life up close and personal. The series provides moral lessons that will aid in character development, teaching boys how to effectively deal with the various issues they face at this stage of life. The series will also help boys develop their English and math skills as they read through the stories and complete the entertaining and educational exercises provided at the end of each chapter and in the back of the book.

Making the Team
Alec London is a fourth grader whose have a tough time.  His dad is the new assistant principal at school; his classmate Tyrod is bullying him; his brother, Antoine is mad with him and his mom is going away for a long period of time because of her job.  Through the game of football, lessons from his dad and a story about a man named Joseph, Alec learns that God cares about him and will help him out when he is struggling.


Learning the Rules
Alec feels abandoned by his mom. Now his brother Antoine and their cousin Little P are mad with him. At school when his tries to take up for a new kid in school he gets into trouble. Alec is trying to do his best but he just can’t seem to get things right. When he goes to church on Easter Sunday, the pastor shares a message that helps him to look at everything a different way.

Going the Distance
The school year is ending. Alec is looking forward to sleeping late and no bullying. But dad and mom have other plans for him this summer. Dad wants him to play baseball and mom puts him in an acting camp. He doesn’t want to do either but decides to try anyway. Alec hates baseball but dad won’t let him quit. He loves acting but mom won’t let him continue when he gets a part in a Disney show. Alec is upset with his parents but he learns that even when things don’t go his way he must still obey God by honoring his parents.


Winning the Battle
The summer is over and Alec is back in school. Tyrod has a new friend Zarrick who also bullies Alec and mom is still away. In response to all that's going on in his life Alec begins to act out in school, sleep in class and hang around with the wrong crowd.  And, to protect himself, he starts taking karate lessons. With the help of his karate instructor, parents, old friends, Alec learns that being disciplined and learning to respond to things in a way that pleases God are important when it comes to winning the battle.


Taking the Lead
Alec is voted class president and joins the track team. Though Tyrod continues to bully him, Alec tries to become friends. Everything is going well for him until he loses his grandmother. Alec becomes sad and gets off track but running track and working with the Special Olympics kids helps him work through the things happening at home and school. When his team wins the county title Alec thinks about how proud his grandmother was of him for learning how to take the lead.


About the Authors
STEPHANIE PERRY MOORE is the author of many Young Adult Christian fiction titles, including the Payton Skky series, the Laurel Shadrach series, the Perry Skky Jr. series, the Faith Thomas Novelzine series, the Carmen Browne series, and the Beta Gamma Pi series. She is also the co-editor for the impactful BibleZine, REAL. Mrs. Moore speaks with young people across the country, showing them how they can live life fully and do it God’s way. Stephanie currently lives in the greater Atlanta area with her husband, Derrick, a former NFL player and author, and their three children. Visit her website at www.stephanieperrymoore.com.
DERRICK MOORE is a former NFL athlete who played for the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, and Arizona Cardinals following his successful college football career. Since his retirement from the NFL in 1998 he has been in demand as a motivational speaker for professional teams, civic groups, churches, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is on staff with FCA, serving as the chaplain of the football program at Georgia Tech. Derrick is the author of The Great Adventure and the general editor for the Strength and Honor Bible.

Purchase the Books Online at:

Amazon.com

BarnesandNoble.com

Link for Graphics:


For More Information, Visit the author online at:
http://www.stephanieperrymoore.com

View the blog tour schedule at: 

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Guest Blog Thursday with Valley Brown

Never Assume Anything
by
Valley Brown


This well-worn axiom should be displayed where you can see it daily.  Assumptions get you in trouble.

I made such an assumption when attempting to convert a trusted file to EPUB format for the first time.  The reasoning behind the assumption was that the file formats shared enough data to give a product that might need minimal tweaking.  That was almost the case.  Almost.

My book’s layout was all done in InDesign® CS5, and saved for the printer as a PDF file, which is what had been requested. The same PDF file was used for a successful conversion to a Kindle® eBook file.  Unfortunately, the trusty PDF was not acceptable for conversion to a Nook® eBook file. That first required conversion to an EPUB file, which could then be uploaded for the account with Barnes & Noble.  Supposedly, my program was capable of performing this task.

No. Neither easily nor quickly if the user is without significant knowledge of HTML (which I do not have, nor do I anticipate acquiring in this lifetime).  I tried Calibre®.  It took the PDF and converted it to EPUB in what seemed to be a quick and painless process.  Not quite.  All instances of italics were lost.  Many of the indents disappeared, too, as did page breaks between all the introductory pages preceding the Prologue.  I had no simple way to correct any of that, short of going to my original text files and creating a completely new layout strictly for EPUB.  The cover, which I imported as the same file used for web and eBook, was likewise problematic. It looked okay on an eReader-sized screen, but stretched horrendously when enlarged to PC size.

The project, weeks behind schedule given the amount of time I could personally devote to it, is going to be handed over to someone experienced at converting files to this particular format.  It will cost me a few bucks, to be certain, but it will pay for itself.  The loss of time, on the other hand, is something I have to eat, and believe me; it is not on my list of favorite foods.  A little more research might have kept me from making that initial assumption.  It would have delayed things a tiny bit up front, but spared me a load of frustration afterward.  Never assume anything.

About Valley Brown
Valley Brown is a member of Romance Writers of America, as well as numerous arts organizations, has won awards for poetry and short fiction, and writes articles for niche magazines. She lives in Southern Indiana. To learn more about Valley visit her site at http://valleybrown.com/index.html

Monday, January 23, 2012

Book Review: Guilty by Association

Purchase at Amazon.com

Guilty by Association
Pat Simmons

4 Stars

In Guilty by Association by Pat Simmons, it shows that family will always be there in any time of need. Kidd Jamieson is a troubled kid living in Boston with his mother and little brother. Kidd has been holding onto anger toward his father for not taking a part in his life. Kidd’s anger has been blocking him from opportunities until his distant cousin makes an appearance.
Cameron Jamieson sees the struggle within Kidd’s life and decides to help him discover that he is an 11th generation descendant of a royal African tribe. Kidd does not want anything to do with the Jamieson name but Cameron will take no for an answer. Cameron’s brother, Parke offers Kidd the opportunity to move to St. Louis to work. Kidd is not fond of the arrangements until he meets Eva. Will Kidd turn in his hard-core image for love?

Eva is a dedicated worker who is studying to become a nurse. When Eva meets Kidd, he offers to help her study for an exam by quizzing her. Eva feels a connection to Kidd but has strict expectations for the man that will become her mate. Eva cannot ignore her feelings for Kidd but can also not ignore Kidd’s behavioral problems. Will Eva give him a chance?

Guilty by Association is about family and new beginnings. This book expressed a clear understanding about family support and that you do not have to carry the burden alone. The Jamieson family is a spiritually oriented family that readers will be able to relate to. This book was entertaining and provided a clear and consistent storyline. I cannot wait to read book two in this series. I recommend Guilty by Association to others.

This book was provided by TyWebbin Creations for review purposes.

Teresa Beasley
A&RBC Reviews

Business of the Week: Promo Styles by Nhea



Who is Promo Styles by Nhea?
Promo Styles By Nhea' is a design company of print/digital works used to market or promote businesses or events for professional or personal use. Promo Styles By Nhea' has designed for churches, baby christenings, wedding invites, apartment communities, book publishing companies and more. This company is owned and ran by Nhea' R. Duncan who has 16 years experience in designing and communicating and listening to her clients to make sure their desires are being met

 What services do you provide?
*Brand design, Logo design, New business packages, Book covers, Newsletters, Flyers, Business Cards, Personalized calendars, Invitations, Poetic Art (typesetting your poetry to art), All sorts of print/digital designs!
*Develop social circles in the Social Networking World
*Develop "Vision Maps" (Marketing Outline)
*Bio writing and Resume writing

 What is your mission and vision?
The mission and vision of Promo Styles By Nhea' is to make you and/or your business memorable by designing works that will bring "attractive attention" giving you the opportunity to Stand Out and feel really good about how you're being presented in the print/digital world.


  Why choose Promo Styles by Nhea?
Promo Styles By Nhea' has a true desire to make people happy or at least contribute to them feeling good about their themselves and their business. Promo Styles By Nhea' is very personable. I work with you to bring Your brilliant vision to fruition. I make it a point to take in your wants and desires. I make it a point to make you feel important. 

What is your location and contact information?
Located in Bel Air, MD (just 45 minutes north of Baltimore City). Contact by phone at 410.330.7112 or email at
inquiries@promostylesbynhea.com.
Authors & Readers Book Corner appreciates your time!

Saturday, January 21, 2012

Saturday Suggestions: FAMILY STORMS & CLOUDBURST

Family Storms
V.C. Andrews


In the eye of the storm . . .

Living on the streets with her destitute mother, selling knickknacks and trinkets just to survive, Sasha Porter dreams of someday having a normal life, with a real house and family. But she never dreamed a devastating tragedy would bring her those very things: on a stormy night by a rainspattered highway, a speeding car veers out of control, striking and killing her mother and badly injuring Sasha.


. . . is anywhere truly safe?
In the hospital, Sasha is whisked off to a fancy private suite at the request of wealthy Mrs. Jordan March, a complete stranger who keeps watch by Sasha’s bedside and insists she come live at her family’s sprawling, luxurious mansion. Sasha soon learns Mrs. March never recovered from the loss of her daughter Alena, and with nowhere else to go, Sasha agrees to use Alena’s room, sleep in her bed, and wear her clothes. But someone will make sure that Sasha never takes Alena’s place: a jealous sister dead set on making Sasha’s life a living hell.


Cloudburst
V.C. Andrews


Out Of A Clear Blue Sky. . .


Since being taken in by wealthy Mrs. Jordan March and living in her exquisite home like a daughter, Sasha Porter’s traumatic past—destitute on the streets, and the shattering accident that killed her mother—seems like a fading nightmare. Beautiful and sophisticated, as bold and daring as her “sister,” Kiera March, Sasha still keeps her mother’s wise words close to her heart: never fully trust anyone. Inside her privileged new world, it’s advice that will prove more precious than gold.



Can Anything Stop The Downpour?


Against the wishes of Jordan’s husband, Donald, Sasha attracts the attention of Duane Banks, a shy, handsome athlete, and maneuvers her way into his heart. But Duane’s hidden torment soon explodes in a horrific tragedy that pulls Sasha into a flood of guilt and despair. And when someone she thought she could trust targets her vulnerability, Sasha recalls her mother’s warnings—and a violent storm of dark deceptions and shocking family secrets is unleashed. Will she sink or swim?

Friday, January 20, 2012

Guilty By Association Virtual Book Tour with Pat Simmons

How did you become a writer?
My steps toward publication? First off, I completed my manuscript. I know that sounds like a no brainer, but that is why publishers won’t take a partial from an aspiring author. You have no track records that you can finish the manuscript and meet deadlines. Then I submitted to every agent and publisher I could find an address. That definitely was the wrong approach. I wasn’t clear what genre my manuscript fit. I thought it was a Christian romance, but I didn’t follow the strict romance formula where the woman is the main character and she and the hero meet on the first page. My Jamieson Legacy books are considered women’s fiction with a lot of romance. Why? Because my main characters are the Jamieson men followed by the women who love them.  Next, finding an agent.  After three agents, I finally found a good match. I’m represented by Amanda Luedeke with Chip Macgregor Literary Agency. She is young, knowledgeable and very diverse in the genres she that attracts her. I think I was the first romance author she represented. I guess you can say I made a believer out of her. Guilty by Association is my first novel with Moody/Lift Every Voice Books. But they originally rejected my first novel. The timing wasn’t right, but I’m enjoying my ride now.

Where does your inspiration for your characters come from?
First the Bible because I have to find out the message Jesus wants me to convey. Second, people, place, and things. Anything could kick my imagination into high gear. For example, a woman I worked with years ago was telling about this break-in at an apartment complex. The resident was a former police officer and he had a retired service dog that had lost its vocal cords. The dog could still bite as a burglar found it. Talk about stupid criminals. That’s how Grandma BB had a dog named Silent Killer. His bite is definitely bigger than his bark.

What are you hoping readers take from your book?
In Guilty by Association, I want parents, siblings, spouses and friends of our “angry black men” syndrome to be encouraged.  We give our children, especially boys, the best and yet they reject sound advice, authority and possess a lost spirit. But God can save any man, boy, or girl from whatever spiritual disease that’s ailing them. I want readers to look pass the sagging beltless-pants-wearing young boys and see the worth that God has given them.

If you were to write a book about a controversial topic, what would it be?
LOL. Been there, done that. My first novel, Guilty of Love (which Moody turned down), was about a woman who was pregnant by her college sweetheart. He told her to kill it (his words) and she had to make a decision—her man or her baby. I was careful in presenting the subject matter so not to condemn, but to heal the woman who couldn’t forgive herself for the wrong decision. I also wrote a book about a former female convict because women are the fasting growing population. I wanted to force readers to judge themselves where they would accept a felon into their circle of friends.

Most writers have a process or method for writing their books, what is yours?
I like to imagine the scenarios, dialogue, and features in my head first. I create a sketchy, sketchy outline of scenes that must be included, maybe the scriptures I plan to use and how many characters are necessary to advance the story. If a writer has too many characters, then the readers will always be trying to keep up. However, it isn’t unusual for me to add a character that I hadn’t planned to give my main character a sidekick or a listening ear or someone is an instigator.

What is your favorite genre of books?
Christian romance and genealogy books, especially African-American.

Are you an avid or occasional reader?
Before I became an author, I was an avid, addicted reader. Now, that isn’t possible. I cram writing into every minute that I can. When I meet my deadlines, it isn’t unusual for me to devour five or six books to unwind, then I’ll jump back into my manuscripts.

What are two things you want your readers to know about you?
That I try to give readers the best story I’m capable of writing. I enjoy interacting with fans. Many times their suggestions would spark story ideas. That’s what happened with my first book Guilty of Love. There may be up to twelve books in the Jamieson Legacy because of those emails.

If you could interview one of your favorite authors, who would it be? Why?
Henry Louis Gates because I believe we are on the same mission to track Blacks’ connection back to Africa. Where he relies heavily on research and documentation, I hope to stumble across documents as I research my family tree. I only scratch the surface of the valuable details of our ancestry that are at our fingertips in the Jamieson Legacy Books.

What is or was your dream job?
After graduating college, my dream job and goal was to secure a job in the broadcast industry, which I was able to do, but it wasn’t easy. I worked in television and radio for a total of twenty years. My dream job now would be to become a certified genealogist. The catch is I wouldn’t want to work for anybody else, but myself. Definitely, not a logical career strategy. LOL.

What new projects are you working on?
Now that Guilty by Association is out (January 2012), I just turned in book II: The Guilt Trip (June 2012) and I’m 60 pages into book III: Free from Guilt (October 2012) and yes, I revamped by outline. I hope I can finish that up by mid-February. After that, I’ll work on some eBooks and try to get some single titles ready for publication.

Where can readers find you?
Everywhere.  Facebook.com/patsimmonsauthor, twitter.com/@patsimmons; www.patsimmons.net, www.goodreads.com and other places I’m sure I forgot about.



About the Book
The Jamieson Family Legacy series follow the lives of two Jamieson brothers in Boston, Kidd and Ace, and their cousin, Cameron, from St. Louis. The older brother, Kidd, is struggling with anger and resentment issues toward his absentee father who never married his mother. Yet, he had the audacity to demand his illegitimate sons carry his Jamieson name. Ace, on the other hand, is on his collision course to be a chip off the old block when it comes to women. Their highly MIT educated cousin, Cameron Jamieson, is all about saving family from self-destruction. Through genealogy research, Cameron's mission is to show his cousins their worth as the eleventh generation descendants of a royal African tribe and to give them a choice: live with the stereotypical "angry black men" syndrome or to crush any obstacles that try and stop them to become strong successful black men.
There are three books in the Jamieson Legacy series: Guilty by Association (Kidd's story), The Guilt Trip (Ace's story), and Free from Guilt (Cameron's story). Each of the three Jamieson men have to accept that their past and present are in God's hand, and without Him they can't advance to their future blessings. The bonus storyline in Guilty by Association is one that progresses the story of the much-loved character in the previous three book Guilty Series, Grandma BB. This time, she picks up a sidekick Mrs. Valentine.
Guilty by Association is the story of Boston bad boy Kevin "Kidd" Jamieson.  His gripe is with his father who dared to insist that his two illegitimate sons carry his last name.  To add insult to injury, the man never bothered to stick around to provide love and guidance as his boys matured into men.  Kidd's anger overflows into every area of his life. As his animosity festers, Kidd becomes as a roaring lion, seeking whatever and whomever he can devour.  He's as gritty as his cousin in St. Louis, Parke Jamieson VI, is polished. The two strong-willed men clash when Kidd relocates to St. Louis where his cousin assures him it's a land of milk and money in job opportunities. Where is lands a job is far from it. 
Through a series of events that involve Grandma BB, her dog named Silent Killer and her Stacy Adams shoes, Kidd meets two women who recognize his hostile tendencies and immediately begin to administer CPR to his soul. LPN Eva Savoy eventually becomes his "Eve," a woman God created from the underlying goodness hidden in Kidd's own heart.
Reluctantly, Kidd allows Parke to divulge information about their royal family heritage. While everyone's care and compassion begins to smother Kidd, he struggles to keep up the bad boy attitude as his walls start to crumble. Kidd learns it's not his association with the name that identifies him, but the man he becomes that defines him.

About the Author
Pat Simmons is a self-proclaimed genealogy sleuth. She is passionate about digging up the dirt on her ancestors, then casting them in starring roles in her novels. She has been a genealogy enthusiast since her great-grandmother died at the young age of ninety-seven years old. Pat has won numerous awards for her novels which include: Talk to Me, Grace and Humility and Still Guilty, which was voted the Best Inspirational Romance for 2010. Pat is best known for her Guilty series: Guilty of Love, Not Guilty of Love, and Still Guilty. She is continuing the series through the Jamieson Family Legacy trilogy: Guilty by Association, The Guilt Trip, Free From Guilt. Pat has recently been nominated for the best Christian fiction award by the African American Literary Awards for her latest release, Crowning Glory.  Pat and her husband live in Missouri and have two children. Visit Patricia at:
facebook.com/patsimmonsauthor.

View the blog tour schedule at : 
 

Author, Pat Simmons