Author Interview: Quest Within Me Author Daniel Davis

Q: Your story “The Quest within Me” has touched me in such a way that I wanted to speak with you. How did you come to the conclusion that you needed to work on finding both your own definition of peace and happiness?

A: Figuring out what peace and happiness meant to me was the beginning of my quest. Before a person can arrive at a final destination, they have to figure out where they are going. This is why I believe a person cannot have peace and/or happiness in their life until they define what these things mean to them. I spent years trying to find joy in my life from material things, status, and finally relationships. After years of searching for happiness in those places I was left with a sense of emptiness in my life. It was not until I looked inside myself that I began finding the answers I badly desired.

Q: Many individuals find themselves in a lost place, a place that doesn’t make much sense in life. Did you experience an epiphany or moment that clicked and you said “now this is all making sense to me?”

A: Prior to moving to Maryland, I always kept myself busy. Keeping myself occupied with work, parties, etc. allowed me to ignore inner feelings I badly needed to address and/or let go. It was easier for me to ignore these feelings than to confront them. Once I moved to Maryland almost immediately things fell apart with the woman I was seeing at that particular time, I was not working, and I was all alone. I’ll be honest with you; this was a very depressing time for me. During this period, I read a bible verse that really spoke to me. Matthew 5:8 “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.” For me, the verse meant in order to walk the path God intends for you one must clear hate, anger, fear from his/her heart. It’s funny to me how I thought the universe was punishing me for something because of the situation I was placed in, but being isolated from everyone and everything was exactly what I needed to discover what was preventing me from having peace and happiness in my life.

Q: I think what resonated with me was the moment in your journey that caused you to speak with your father. You came to him in such a nonjudgmental way and started off the conversation with I forgive you for. To me that was extremely powerful because when we are hurt we often point a defensive finger at the wrong-doer. How difficult was it for you to go to your father and confess your ill feelings?

A: You brought up a great point about not being judgmental. Many people do not realize things they have done affect others in the way that it does, so a lot of times a person won’t even realize they are a wrong-doer. We as a people (me included) have to work on addressing issues as they occur and not waiting days/months/years.  Also, we must address these issues without judging and pointing fingers, which is easier said than done.

It was very difficult for me to finally speak with my father, which is why I avoided having that conversation for so long. I knew it needed to be done, so I finally did it. A lot of times people will express their feelings to another and because the wrong-doer does not apologize in the manner the person believes he/she should, this person never truly forgives the wrong-doer. This is why I wanted to start my conversation off by forgiving my father. I felt just how powerful this gesture was immediately. I mean instantly my face was covered in tears.

Q: What lesson or lessons would you say you’ve learned the most from? Though your journey came to a conclusion in your book would you say in some ways you are still on that journey?

A:  Life is always teaching us something. Granted, every lesson will not be life changing, but each day has the potential to produce multiple positive takeaways.

Every lesson in The Quest Within Me was unexpected. I started off with only four stories, and every few days/months something significant would happen. I kept writing and next thing I knew I completed a book, so the book may have concluded but the journey will continue to go on. I actually began working on another Non-Fiction book called My Quest to Love. Readers are really going to connect with this book because it’s an in-depth look into relationships from knowing exactly what you are looking for in a counterpart to actually being in the relationship.

Q: I know that the Quest within Me is your debut non-fiction book but can readers expect to see any fiction in your literary lineup?

A: There is an idea I’ve played around with in my head, and I really wanted to do something with it. I shared my pitch with a few close friends and they all said, “You need to write that book!!” Needless to say, I will make this project happen.

Q: Where can readers find a copy of your debut non-fiction or contact you for questions or book club discussions?

A: The Quest Within Me is available for purchase online @ Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, Balboapress.com, and/or iTunes. I will be sure to attach the links below along with my contact information.

Before we wrap up this interview I want to express my most sincere appreciation. Even though you don’t normally review Non-Fiction you made an exception for my book, and that meant the world to me. Thank You!!

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/The-Quest-within-Daniel-Davis/dp/1452567441/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1386945257&sr=8-1&keywords=the+quest+within+me

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-quest-within-me-daniel-c-davis/1115273044?ean=9781452567440

Email: Mrdanieldavis@hotmail.com

Twitter: Mrdanieldavis_h

InstaGram: DannyBoy_Davis

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Daniel-C-Davis/167793779910537

5 Reasons You Need a Book Publicist

Just like the name implies a publicist’s sole responsibility is to publicize your work or build your brand. They are the reason celebrities become famous. They are the behind the scenes workers getting interviews, spreading buzz worthy tales and making sure the people who moves and shakes have you in their direct line of vision. How does this relate to an author? Very simple without a great product, a marketing plan and enough buzz created around your book it will become a pretty little wall flower on a wall filled with wall flowers. An added benefit is that most book publicist will read your book and if they are sold on it they are adamant about pushing your success. What can a publicist do for you that you can’t do for yourself? Well unless you have a long list of contacts and industry insiders you can call in favors on than they can do a great deal. I hope to give you five reasons why you need a book publicist and in true Urban Fiction News style I will provide you with a list of publicist that are specific to the urban fiction genre.

Reason #1 You Need a Book Publicist to take you From Unknown to Known

Self published authors have the disadvantage of not having a large big named publisher to fall back on. It’s easier to gain the attention of industry insiders when you have a large traditional publisher backing you. However, a disadvantage can also be an advantage because once you show the big boys you know how to sell your book the potential to be picked up by the big boys is much greater. That could mean higher advance checks and companies fighting for Your attention. The publicist will put you or your work in front of the world giving you more exposure. The great news is their job is to make you known/famous.

Reason #2 A Book Publicist has Connections

We have all heard that it’s not what you know but who you know. Well if that’s true many of us wouldn’t go far on our own. The most valuable aspect of a publicist’ job is networking and building relationships with media outlets. The author doesn’t have to know anyone personally as their representative puts them in front of their long list of contacts. That alone is valuable. How many authors are interested in hunting down folks to talk about their book? I know I am not (but I will) With a publicist you won’t have to. They get you interviews threw newspaper, magazine and radio or TV. They also create campaigns that will generate a buzz around you the author and the book.

Reason #3 A Book Publicist Help with Reviews

As I’ve said before book reviews are the literary gold of the book world. Having quality book reviews on retail sites can make or break your book. Word of mouth marketing can make your book a top seller. A publicist is able to get your book in the hands of reviewers by sending out review copies.They locate popular bloggers in your genre, from media resources and get your book in their hands. One great review can take you from an unknown to a known.

Reason # 4 Book Publicist Create Detailed Ad Campaigns

Many self-published authors may find it overwhelming to market their own work. When you employ the services of a book publicist they not only locate the best ad campaigns but do the ad placements for you. Many will tell you that not only is important to increase your books’ visibility through interviews etc… but also to have your book displayed prominently throughout the places readers of your genre are located. Your book cover should be placed on multiple sites for maximum exposure.

Reason #5 Social Media Should Be a Book Publicist’s Specialty

The world of marketing has changed so greatly that having an online presence is vital to your book’s success. You must know how to work the social media platform to get ahead. Many publicist are well versed on social media marketing and will use it to their advantage. They create enough buzz that gets Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin etc… discussing your book which ultimately means more book sales.

Below is a list of book publicist that cater to African-American Authors and also to the Self-Published author enjoy!!!

Dawn Michelle Hardy http://www.dreamrelations.com

Gwen Richardson http://www.gwenrichardson.com

Heather M. Palmore ESq. http://www.ceciliacapers.com/publicistfortwmig.htm

V. Michelle Stephenson http://www.vmscommunications.net/main/bio.php

Makeda Smith http://www.jazzmynepr.com/pages/makeda.htm or http://jazzmynepr.com/

Publicist for the Indie Author

Smith Publicity http://www.smithpublicity.com/self-published-books/

Kelley & Hall http://www.kelleyandhall.com/sample-page-2/

Novel Publicity http://www.novelpublicity.com/publicity/

This is a small amount of publicist resources but if you enjoyed the post don’t forget to like and share with the links provided below.

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Interview with Azarel: Owner of Life Changing Books Publishing

 

 

 

 

Q: You were at one point a teacher which is very different from being the owner of a well-known publishing company. What made you change your career path?

I sort of fell into publishing.  I was pregnant at one point during my teaching career and received news that I had to be put on bed rest. That took me by surprise, especially when they said, “Six months!” A family member suggested that I spend my time wisely, by writing a book. I took a stab at it and penned my first novel, “A Life to Remember,” while on bed rest. I had just finished my Masters in Education so it was a bitter-sweet moment when I decided not to go back to the classroom. I created Life Changing Books (LCB) and sold 5,000 copies of my novel so quickly through my distribution channels that I knew, I had embarked on a new career.

 Q: You’re not only the owner but also a successful writer with titles that has gained you much attention. Which of your titles are you most proud of or count as your best work?

My novel ‘Bruised’ is closest to my heart. It’s based on a true story and always makes me feel like I’m watching a Lifetime Movie when I discuss it. It’s gritty yet informative. It’s also a piece of work that doesn’t put me in a box. People of all ages can relate. My most successful title in terms of sales has been “Daddy’s House”. People love sex, drama, and craziness, so I guess it hit the spot. LOL

Q:  Life Changing Books has shaken the urban fiction publishing world with some of the hottest titles around. Did you always know you wanted to own a publishing company?

I never wanted to be a writer or own a publishing company. I’ve always been an entrepreneur even while teaching, so I knew I would always run companies, but not at this level. LCB became successful rather quickly and became my passion even quicker. I began meeting motivated authors like Tiphani , who penned The Millionaire Mistress Series and J. Tremble wrote Secrets of a Housewife early in the company’s history. From there, the company skyrocketed because my authors really wanted to become successful.

Q: Many writers are interested in learning what it takes to be selected by a reputable publishing company. What are you usually looking for in a writer?

We want unique stories. It seems that every book on the shelf is similar to the masses. Also, at LCB we normally look for writers who have researched the industry and know how to do the basics; have a properly formatted manuscript, have a pre-mature marketing plan, and come with the passion to become a best seller.

Q: How many titles has Life Changing Books Publishing Company published so far?

To date, we’ve published 86 titles; 10 of which are National Bestsellers and 1 New York Times Best Seller (Game Over by Winter Ramos).

 Q: What’s next for your company and its league of writers?

We’re super excited over here at LCB.  Some projects we can’t discuss at the moment but will eventually blow your mind. Let’s just say, we haven’t stopped at producing books. We have one book series that is headed for TV.  In addition, a few books have been turned into scripts. There’s so much more. Check out the behind the scenes here.

 Q: Where can fans, readers and writers alike find out more about you and your company?

LCB is everywhere! We love our readers wholeheartedly. Contact us at  www.lifechangingbooks.net

@lcbooks

Facebook- LCB

IG- @Lcbooks

Kisses!

Azarel

Urban Fiction News Nominated for an Award

 

 

 

 

As I am always excited to share news and going on’s of Urban Fiction News. UFN was recently nominated for the 2013 Black Weblog Awards with the winner to be announced on November 02, 2013. I wanted to take a moment and say a special thank you to everyone who has followed my blog, left a comment, sent in a review request or even emailed me.

My goal is and has always been to even up the playing field for writers by giving them real information and real resources. Knowledge really is power and the more you know the better your odds of success. I love providing book reviews and truly feel humbled that writers wish to share their “babies” with me. For years self-published authors were at a disadvantage and were not taken seriously. This was true because traditional publishers had access to resources and services not available to everyone else. This is especially true for Urban Fiction authors, where the genre was shunned and told it had no market.

I believe any writer wishing to pursue a career in the literary world should and can. Urban Fiction News will always thrive to be your #1 resource and to make sure indie/self-published authors become more and more competitive. I am always open to hearing your needs  as well as going the distance to provide resources you didn’t know you needed.

Book Review: 28 Days of Breaking the Cycle by: Miss Alma

BREAK OUT BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!!!! BREAK OUT BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!!! BREAK OUT BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!!!!

If you’ve ever been hurt in life, If you’ve ever suffered from the hands of an abuser, If your innocence was robbed by someone you loved. If you thought your life was bad, if you’ve hit rock bottom, if you need a good cry, if you need a shock of emotion. if you feel lost, if you need a friend. THEN YOU MUST GET THIS BOOK. I read this book with the pure intention of finding out what message the chocolate beauty on the cover could possibly mean by 28 days to breaking the cycle. What cycle? what did she mean is all I kept asking, that is until I sat down to read. I literally finished this book in two hours. I cried and called my sisters and sister-girlfriends. This story is unlike traditional self-help books simply because it reads like a novel with drops of wisdom thrown in. 28 days to Breaking the Cycle follows the unbelievable “I can’t believe she made it through that” story of Miss Alma. It starts with the most devastating news about her mother that will lead to a variety of treacherous events that will leave Miss Alma broken but not shattered and the amazing triumph of a woman determined. In disbelief I kept needing to remind myself that I wasn’t reading a novel or fictional tale. I could not believe all of what was going on and much of it from family members. It’s hard to write this review as I swear I want to tell you the beginning, middle and ending in my most incredulous “Can you believe this mess?” voice. But I can’t give away the story but I swear I want to. So all of my followers, readers and interested parties please support this author so WE can talk about it!!!!

I personally love any story that provokes an emotion whether its anger, laughter, joy, tears and sometimes even pain. I love to live vicariously through others hence the reason I love to read and Miss Alma has definitely taken me on an emotional roller coaster. I cried six times before I even reached the middle of the book. Others around me who noticed started asking can they read it next. I honestly believe this book is the BREAK OUT BOOK of the YEAR. Any person who can go through some of the most extreme things this young lady had to endure in her young life and not only make it but find her purpose, then they deserve their moment in the SUN.

I rate this story 5 stars ***** and would definitely recommend everyone to go out and get their copy TODAY!!!! I never endorse any book unless I am sold and I am undeniably sold on 28 Days to Breaking the Cycle!!!

 

For your copy visit

http://www.amazon.com/28-Days-Breaking-Cycle-ebook/dp/B00FN9OWVQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382895941&sr=8-1&keywords=28+days+to+breaking+the+cycle

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Book Review: When Everything Isn’t Enough by Ed Wyns

Once in a while there is a book that provokes so many emotions I can’t keep up. When Everything Isn’t Enough is just that type of book. I read the story in a matter of a days which is a big feat with the amount of requests I receive on a daily basis not to mention my full time work schedule and family obligations. This story had me at hello, I was pulled in immediately with the author’s compelling writing style. The story follows an adolescent David Tanner through family trouble, x-rated sexual encounters and into the arms of his one true love Mia Collins. The young couple grows together over the years and find themselves living the American Dream. That is until the young couple decides to get pregnant. I must admit I was a bit skeptical with the direction of the story leaning toward male infertility. I wasn’t sure where the author was going to lead me.

I yelled at the characters, I flipped pages with the speed of light and I almost skipped meals to finish it. I don’t like giving spoilers but this book will definitely have you writing the author asking them to hurry up and publish the sequel. I would definitely give this book an A+. My only recommendation would be to reduce the amount of time spent on the younger years to leave more room for the characters as adults. I also thought the dialogue was a bit unrealistic during their teen years would have loved for it to be a bit more youthful.

Overall, this book is a quality read and would be enjoyed by lovers of any genre. This eloquently told tale is a must read and would compliment your reading back log.

To get your copy of this book visit the link below. You can also get a free preview with Amazon’s look inside feature

http://www.amazon.com/When-Everything-Isnt-Enough-Wyns/dp/1482078228/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1378861328&sr=8-2&keywords=when+everything+isn%27t+enough

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Slave to the Trade by Percy Levy

I would like to start this review a bit differently. I am often approached by aspiring writers who may have already decided to go the self-publishing route and they are looking for a boost on what may or may not be a great read. However, I knew this book would be different simply from the eloquence the writer used in their request for a review. I was sold from the synopsis and that alone speaks volumes. Now on to the good stuff!

Slave to the Trade is a story about a once big-time pimp who arrogantly calls himself A.D. His recent release from prison finds him quickly trying to recover his pimp game from a now modern-day Seattle. Officer Pratt has been waiting for the release of A.D for years and the story heats up quickly when the two finally face off it will take you on a ride. This story was better than a surprise. I enjoyed every word from start to finish and even had to pull my daughters away from attempting to read as they are only teens. Percy Levy could easily battle Donald Goines or Iceberg Slim in a literary battle with true to life characters that make you open your eyes and relate. Unlike many urban fiction pimp stories filled with the glitz and glamour the author takes you on a ride of humanity. He exposes the street life in a way that helps its readers relate. The only thing I would change is the one page chapters.

The book is currently being sold on Amazon and I would recommend it to any love of the genre. For your copy follow the links below

If you enjoyed the review please remember to like

http://www.amazon.com/Slave-To-The-Trade-ebook/dp/B00BJALGGW/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_kin?ie=UTF8&qid=1374717703&sr=8-1&keywords=slave+to+the+trade+by+percy+levy

 

 

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Platinum Dust was offered 2 Publishing Contracts!

Just wanted to share some good news with my readers. I recently released my debut urban fiction tale Platinum Dust (Part One)  which is a part of a three-part trilogy. I self-published through Booktango back in April. (The service at Booktango is incredible by the way) Since Platinum Dust’s release I am proud to announce that I have managed to gain lots of 5 star reviews including reviews on Straight Official, Goodreads and Amazon to name a few.

With such good feedback I decided that I would take the gamble of submitting my novel to a few publishers of the urban fiction genre so I sent over the first 4 chapters, the synopsis and a query letter to their submission departments not expecting to hear back for several months. I submitted to two companies LFF Publishing and Life Changing Books initially and crossed my fingers. Within a few days I received a reply requesting the full manuscript. I was ecstatic to say the least. Then I received a message on Facebook from the owner of Just Wright Publications. He came across my author page and asked did I self publish the ebook and was I in print. Per his request I submitted a copy of my complete manuscript including the book cover.

Within two weeks I was contacted by both LFF publishing and Just Wright Publications offering me a three book deal. They both also thought my ability to market and promote my work was an asset and thought I may be able to work on their publishing team in PR. For the first time in my creative writing career I have two publishers fighting for my attention.

After reviewing both contracts I have decided to sign with Just Wright Publications. They offered the best deal with a three book contract. I am super excited and want to thank everyone who already purchased a copy of Platinum Dust!!!

Free Urban Fiction Sample

It’s no secret my debut urban fiction novel Platinum Dust (Part One) has been released but I have been receiving messages asking me if I would be willing to make a few chapters available to the public. I give a lot of advice on Urban Fiction especially on writing and marketing and so I thought I would allow the public to give me some feedback. I am open to all comments, suggestions, reviews and opinions on my baby (Platinum Dust) If you are up for it please feel free to visit the link below and let me know what you think!!!!!!! Happy reading everyone and remember to Follow for more Urban Fiction News, Reviews and Resources

 

http://www.freado.com/read/15744/platinum-dust-part-one

Book Review: Fourteen Pages by James Fant

We all know that divorce can be a messy situation and author James Fant has managed to take the messy blows of a marriage in the midst of a storm and document the process beautifully. Marco and Venice Goldsmith are newly weds who finds out how hard marriage really can be. With the honeymoon phase clearly miles away from the wedding the chapel they find themselves coming to blows more and more frequently.

Just when divorce seems inevitable and the only option to a tumultuous marriage they meet a counselor offering an unexpected solution. A 14 page contract that may be just what the young couple needs to stay married.

What I loved about the story is how eloquent the tone was. The author managed to engage me by painting a picture of total dispair and then victory from the imminece of separation. I felt the hurt Marco felt when he heard the words ‘I hate you’ spill from his once happy bride. I would give this read a 4 out of 5 stars. The only critique would be the accessive amount of times they use the characters name throughout the story and how they explained any slang they used or gave the definitions of some of the words used. Other than that the story is a great read and readers of a good story that flows then give Fourteen Pages a try. It is available by following the link

http://www.amazon.com/Fourteen-Pages-ebook/dp/B00CAC07LS

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