Barbara Joe Speaks

Sweetheart Book Release Party

2007-02-05T17:24:00.000-08:00

If you missed it, you missed a really good time. Please check out the article and picture posted today at www.thefamuanonline.com

In fact, Amani Publishing is pleased to announce the "How I Met My Sweetheart, Too" writing contest. That's right, we're doing it again. This time we're looking for at least twenty (20) stories to publish from aspiring authors. Stories may be 2 - 6 pages long and double-spaced using a Times New Roman 12-point font (Please include a biography and a head shot with entry). The deadline for all entries to be emailed to Amanipublishing@aol.com
is July 31, 2007.

Amani Publishing Newsletter

2007-02-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

February 2007

Celebrate Black History Month!
*

Welcome to the blog newsletter sponsored by Amani Publishing. A company based on faith, hope, and love. Please visit: http://www.amanipublishing.net/ for more information.
*

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great ones make you feel that you, too, can become great.
*

BOOK REVIEWS:
Here are the books that I managed to read last month. I had some down time so I tried to set a record at the beginning of the year. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to keep up this pace but it was fun while it lasted:

Beyond the Ashes, Deborha Parham (1)
Genre: Christian fiction
Rating: 4
This story chronicles the life of Sohni Vessels and her six sisterfriends in their quests for love. Centered around Serendipity Baptist Church, it’s a testament to faith.

Diary of a Mistress, Miasha (2)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4
In this novel, Monica counts her husband, Carlos, as a blessing until she receives a diary in the mail. But will she believe him or the one proclaiming to be his mistress?

Grooming Him for Her, NeCee (3)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4
Debut author, NeCee hits us with a story so hot that she had to put a “caution” sign on the front cover. You’ll be well pleased with this quick read.

I Say A Little Prayer, E. Lynn Harris (4)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 5
This best selling author is back with another sexy, shocking, and satisfying tale exploring some timely issues surrounding the church.

My Soul to Keep, Elissa Kyle (5)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 5
This book is a beautiful collection of short love stories guaranteed to warm even the coldest heart. They’re all written by one of my favorite self-published authors.

So You Call Yourself a Man, Carl Weber (6)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4
This story chronicles the lives of three lifelong best friends who really shouldn’t call themselves men.

Tangerine, Marilynn Griffith (7)
Genre: Christian fiction
Rating: 4
Tangerine is the juicy sequel to Pink. This time the author takes on the tale of a married couple who’s been separated for the last fifteen years due to unfortunate circumstances.

The Preacher’s Son, Carl Weber (8)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 5
This New York Times best selling author shares another explosive church drama with his fans. It should be titled the “Preacher’s Son, Daughter, and Wife.”
*

BOOK SIGNINGS AND OTHER EVENTS:
Sweetheart Book Release Party
For “How I Met My Sweetheart”
Friday, February 2, 5:30 pm.
McLean Community Center, Tallahassee

African American Read In Chain
Sunday, February 4, 3:00 p.m.
Wakulla County Library

WTAL1450.com Radio Interview
Friday, February 9, 12:00 p.m.
Host Vincent Edwards

Barnes & Nobles Bookstore “Romance Authors”
Saturday, February 10, 1:00 p.m.
With Irma Clark, Marianne LaCroix, and Marilynn Griffith

FAMU Campus Bookstore
Friday, February 16, 11:00 a.m.
With Irma Clark and Marilynn Griffith

Catherine M. Wright’s Book Release Party
For “Oh, God, What Have I Done?”
Saturday, February 17, 11:00 a.m.
Restoration & Praise Christian Center, 1098 Paul Russell Road

Podcast Interview with Yvonne Perry
Thursday, February 22, 3:00 p.m.
Writersinthesky.com

Local AA Authors Day Program
Saturday, February 24, 12:00 p.m.
Amen-Ra’s Bookshop, Tallahassee
Featuring at least a dozen African-American authors and a natural hair presentation by
“Mandisa-Ngozi.com”
*

PUBLISHING OPTIONS:
Do you have a book in you?
Let me help you get it out in three months. Publishing packets starting as low as $1,000 (includes free copies and marketing plan). Make this the year that you make your dreams come true.
*

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Capital City Chamber of Commerce meets on the 4th Monday of each month.
American Business Women's Association meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
Tallahassee Writer's Association meets on the 4th Thursday of each month.
*

See ya next month on the web…

Barbara Joe Williams, Owner
Amani Publishing, P. O. Box 12045, Tallahassee, FL 32317
Website: Amanipublishing.net
Email: Amanipublishing@aol.com
850-264-3341 phone
Call me now!

Sweetheart Blog Tour

2007-01-06T13:49:00.000-08:00

The "Sweetheart Blog Tour" is on it's way. Come join eighteen (18) authors as they tell their stories about how they found true love. You can visit each author's blog, website, or contact them via e-mail to find out why they decided to participate in this project.

I decided to publish the "Sweetheart" book because I'm a hopeless romantic. While attending a New Year's Eve party, the hostess turned to me and asked, "Barbara, how did you meet your husband?" Well, by the time everyone at the party had finished telling their stories, we were all laughing to tears. Several days later, I was still laughing when I shared the story with a friend of mine and she replied, "It sounds like a good book to me." So I present to you the "How I Met My Sweetheart" anthology.

The books will be available from individual authors or any bookstore beginning February 1, 2007.
ISBN, 097528519X
Page count, 120 pages
Price, $12.00

http://www.DeborhaParhamWrites.com
(Deborha Parham) All the Way

http://www.Kim-Robinson.com
(Kim Robinson) Another World

gjjay357@aol.com
(Luvenia Hill-James) Bittersweet

LKWashingon1@yahoo.com
(Lance Washington) Eleven

Mizzluvlea07@oh.rr.com
(Alesica Smith) In the Beginning

Jetflo5@peoplepc.com
(Juanita E. Thomas) Jet and Rev

http://www.AleighasLittleLearners.com
(Aleigha A. Butler) Just For Me

http://www.Ahholt.com
(Anne Haw Holt-Webb) Life Just Happens

http://Readinnwritin.blogspot.com
(Patricia Woodside) Love Begets Love

http://www.Viensplace.blogspot.com
(Vien Jernigan) My First Love

fisherlawhrf@aol.com
(Sherille Fisher) Nothing in Common

http://www.SBatts.blogspot.com
(Shauna Stephens-Batts) Oasis

http://clix.to/renay
(H. Renay Anderson) Running Away

http://www.Aprilsweetheart.blogspot.com
(April McDermid) Simply Love

http://www.NewIsraelOnline.org
(Sylvia A. Thomas) Sweet Sunday Morning

Nanfran@polaris.net
(Francina Roberts-Cargile) The Stereo Man

http://www.Lashaunda.blogspot.com
(LaShaunda Carruth-Hoffman) We're Just Friends

Enjoy your visits!

Amani Publishing January Newsletter 2007

2007-01-04T18:46:00.000-08:00

January 2007

Happy New Year!
*

Welcome to the blog newsletter sponsored by Amani Publishing. A company based on faith, hope, and love. Please visit: www.Amanipublishing.net for more information.
*

QUOTE OF THE MONTH:
Never look back unless you have something to push you forward.
-Unknown-
*

BOOK REVIEWS:
Here are the books that I managed to read last month:

1) Business Unusual, Linda F. Beed
Genre: Christian fiction
Rating: 4
Business Unusual delves into the complex world of the Lewis family, their close friends, and less than genuine associates.

2) If the Shoe Fits, Marilynn Griffith
Genre: Christian fiction
Rating: 5
If the Shoe Fits is the befitting sequel to “Made of Honor.” This time she takes on the romantic life of a shoe designer.

What I’m reading now:
Beyond the Ashes, Deborha Parham
*

HOW I MET MY SWEETHEART ANTHOLOGY:
A collection of eighteen (18) short inspirational love stories from new and published authors will be officially released on Friday, February 2. The book signing party will be held at the McLean Community Center, Tallahassee, Florida, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Please come out and support the authors. This will be a wonderful Valentine’s Day gift for someone you know. Copies will be on sale at the special price of $10.00
*

RADIO INTERVIEW 1:
Friday, February 9, 12:00 - 12:30 p.m. EST, WTAL 1450 AM. The contributors to the "Sweetheart" anthology will be interviewed by the host of "What Matters Most," Mr. Vincent Edwards. Please be sure to call in to 850-671-1450 or check it out on the Internet broadcast at www.wtal1450.com. For more information about the show, you e-mail Mr. Edwards at mattersmost@blessedenterprise.com
*

FAMU BOOK SIGNING:
Friday, February 16, 11:00 - 1:30 p.m., at FAMU's Campus Bookstore on the corner of Gaines Street and Wahnish Way. Come meet local authors: Irma Clark, Marilynn Griffith, and Barbara Joe-Williams.
*

RADIO INTERVIEW 2:
Thursday, February 22, at 3:00 p.m., I will be interviewed by hostess Yvonne Perry from Write On! Creative Writing Services in Nashville, Tennessee. For more information, please visit her website at www.YvonnePerry.net
*

LOCAL AFRICAN AMERICAN AUTHORS DAY:
The second annual "Local African American Authors Day" program will be held on Saturday, February 24, from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m., at Amen-Ra's Bookshop and Gallery on Macomb Street. Please come out to support our local authors and their works.
*

PUBLISHING OPTIONS:
Do you have a book in you?
Let me help you get it out in three months. Publishing packets starting as low as $1,000 (includes free copies and marketing plan). Make this the year that you make your dreams come true.
*

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Capital City Chamber of Commerce meets on the 4th Monday of each month.
American Business Women's Association meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
Tallahassee Writer's Association meets on the 4th Thursday of each month.
For more information, please contact me.
*

See ya next month on the web…

Barbara Joe Williams, Owner
Amani Publishing, P. O. Box 12045, Tallahassee, FL 32317
Website: Amanipublishing.net
Email: Amanipublishing@aol.com
850-264-3341 phone
Call me now!

Amani Publishing Blog Newsletter

2006-12-01T07:34:00.000-08:00

December 2006
*

Welcome to the blog newsletter sponsored by Amani Publishing. A company based on faith, hope, and love. Please visit: www.Amanipublishing.net for more information.
*

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
As a show of appreciation for your continued support, all Amani Publishing titles written by Barbara Joe-Williams are on sale for $10.00 until December 15th. Please check website for more details.

Remember: Books make excellent gifts!
*

BOOK REVIEWS
Here are the books that I managed to read last month:

1) Murder, Mayhem, and a Fine Man (Claudia Mair Burney)
Genre: Mystery/Romance
Rating: 5 Stars
Synopsis: For Amanda Bell Brown, turning forty is murder! But with a fine detective on the scene, it could turn into romance.

2) My Brother’s Keeper (ReShonda Tate Billingsley)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 5 Stars
Synopsis: This is a poignant novel about family, forgiveness, and strength. It is a humorous and heartbreaking story that will touch every reader’s heart.

3) The Biblical Blueprint to Lifelong Health, Fitness, and Wellness
(Juliette L. McDonald)
Genre: Non-fiction
Rating: 5 Stars
Synopsis: This book is a tool to encourage, inspire, and motivate individuals to lose weight with God’s help. You’ve tried the rest, now try the best (Jesus).

4) Jump Start Your Day (William Rollings)
Genre: Religion
Rating: 5 Stars
Synopsis: This devotional challenges readers to seek God’s advice concerning their daily opportunities and obstacles.
*

HOW I MET MY SWEETHEART ANTHOLOGY
A collection of eighteen (18) short inspirational love stories from various authors will be officially released on Thursday, February 1. Please check my website or call your local bookstore for ordering information.
*

AUTHORS SIGNED WITH AMANI PUBLISHING (2006)
Amani Publishing welcomes five new authors into the literary fold this year:
Catherine M. Wright, Oh, God, What Have I Done? (December 2006)
Juanita E. Thomas, On Second Thought (November 2006)
Sylvia A. Thomas, Tough Skin (September 2006)
Max Parker, Jr., Just ?'s (July 2006)
Gloria Murphy Smith, Mirror to the Soul of a Woman (May 2006)

For more information about their books, please visit my website.
*

PARTICIPATION NEEDED
If you'd like to participate in the "Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh" handbook creation, please send your submissions to my email address at: Amanipublishing@aol.com. Here are the official guidelines:
1) Send in one sentence, one paragraph, or one page with your comment(s);
2) Submissions must be received by December 31, 2006.

If your comment(s) is used in the book, you'll be given full credit. This marriage handbook will offer an idea for each week of the year to keep your relationship fresh.
*

TALLAHASSEE WOMAN MAGAZINE
Look for a profile of me in the “Tallahassee Woman Magazine” December/January issue in the WOMEN TO WATCH section. For more information about this magazine with a distributorship of 24,000 and a readership of over 70,000, visit their website at www.TallahasseeWomanMagazine.com
*

FLORIDA COURIER
This statewide black-owned newspaper will run an article on me and publishing this month tentatively titled, “Florida Publisher Reaches Out to Others.” I don’t have a publication date yet, so just be on the look-out for the newspaper or visit their website at
www.Flcourier.com
*
OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Capital City Chamber of Commerce meets on the 4th Monday of each month.
American Business Women's Association meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
Tallahassee Writer's Association meets on the 4th Thursday of each month.
For more information, please contact me.
*

See ya next month on the web…

Barbara Joe Williams, Owner
Amani Publishing, P. O. Box 12045, Tallahassee, FL 32317
Website: Amanipublishing.net
Email: Amanipublishing@aol.com
850-878-1006 fax
850-264-3341 phone
Call me now!

Amani Publishing Blog Newsletter #4

2006-10-30T06:11:00.000-08:00

November 2006
*

Welcome to the blog newsletter sponsored by Amani Publishing. A company based on faith, hope, and love.

QUESTION OF THE MONTH
What are three important things that you have learned as an author and a publisher?

The three most important things that I've learned are:
1) Write whatever you feel passionate about;
2) Don't be afraid to ask others for help; and
3) Try to remain positive even in negative situations.
*

BOOK SIGNINGS
Thursday, November 9
B.L. Perry Branch Library
5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Friday - Sunday, November 16 - 19
Miami International Book Fair
10:00 - 6:00 p.m.
*

THE NUBIAN CHRONICLES INTERVIEW(S)
Last month, Poet Gloria Murphy Smith, was interviewed in this online magazine in the “the poetry corner.”

This month, my interview will be featured in this online magazine blog in the “straight from da pen” section at: www.tnc-magazine.com by Shon Bacon, Editor-in-Chief.
*

NEW BOOK RELEASE
Falling for Lies, my third novel, is available for ordering from my website and all online and retail bookstores. After ten years of praying for Mr. Right, Pastor Karema Wright believes that her prayers have finally been answered when she falls in love with Deacon Mitchell Pye, the most eligible bachelor in her church. But is she falling in love with him or simply falling for his lies?*
*

BOOK REVIEWS
Here are the novels that I managed to read last month:

1) The Memory Keeper’s Daughter (Kim Edwards)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4 stars

2) If the Shoe Fits (Marilynn Griffith)
Genre: Romance
Rating: 5

3) More Like Not Running Away (Paul Shepherd)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4
*

WHAT I’M READING NOW
My Brother’s Keeper (ReShonda Tate Billingsley)
*

HOW I MET MY SWEETHEART ANTHOLOGY
A collection of eighteen (18) short inspirational love stories will be officially released on Thursday, February 1. Pre-ordering is available now at: www.Amanipublishing.net
*

AUTHORS SIGNED WITH AMANI PUBLISHING (2006)
Amani Publishing welcomes five new authors into the literary fold this year:
Catherine M. Wright, Oh, God, What Have I Done? (December 2006)
Juanita E. Thomas, On Second Thought (November 2006)
Sylvia A. Thomas, Tough Skin (September 2006)
Max Parker, Jr., Just ?'s (July 2006)
Gloria Murphy Smith, Mirror to the Soul of a Woman (May 2006)

For more information about their books, please visit my website.
*

E-BOOK NOW AVAILABLE
A Writer’s Guide to Self-Publishing & Marketing (E-Book Edition) is now available for ordering. This comprehensive guide is the updated version of “One Sister’s Guide to Self-Publishing.” It features a special section focusing on marketing and promoting your new book on a budget. Order your download now for only $5.00
*

PARTICIPATION NEEDED
If you'd like to participate in the "Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh" handbook creation, please send your submissions to my email address at: Amanipublishing@aol.com. Here are the official guidelines:
1) Send in one sentence, one paragraph, or one page with your comment(s);
2) Submissions must be received by December 31, 2006.

If your comment(s) is used in the book, you'll be given full credit. This marriage handbook will offer an idea for each week of the year to keep your relationship fresh.
*

TALLAHASSEE WOMAN MAGAZINE
Look for a profile of me in the “Tallahassee Woman Magazine” December/January issue in the WOMEN TO WATCH section. For more information about this magazine with a distributorship of 24,000 and a readership of over 70,000, visit their website at www.TallahasseeWomanMagazine.com
*

FLORIDA COURIER
This statewide black-owned newspaper will run an article on me and publishing this month tentatively titled, “Florida Publisher Reaches Out to Others.” I don’t have a publication date yet, so just be on the look-out for the newspaper or visit their website at
www.Flcourier.com
*

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Capital City Chamber of Commerce meets on the 4th Monday of each month.
American Business Women's Association meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
Tallahassee Writer's Association meets on the 4th Thursday of each month.
For more information, please contact me.
*

See ya next month on the web…

Barbara Joe Williams, Owner
Amani Publishing, P. O. Box 12045, Tallahassee, FL 32317
Website: Amanipublishing.net
Email: Amanipublishing@aol.com
850-878-1006 fax
850-264-3341 phone
Call me now!

New Book Release Party!!!

2006-10-25T15:53:00.000-07:00

The official book release party for "Falling for Lies" was held on Saturday, October 21, at the McLean Community Center in Tallahassee, Florida. Four other authors were invited to speak: Marilynn Griffith (Jade, Pink and Made of Honor), Juanita E. Thomas (Just a Thought and On Second Thought), Gladys Gikiri (My Malaika), and Max Parker, Jr.(Just ?s). The well attended event was hosted by my longtime friend, Debbie Williams, who did a fabulous job providing commentary and introductions. Pastor Catherine Wright, the newest author to sign with Amani Publishing, was also in the audience asking questions of each speaker. Lynette Brown modeled her African attire and did a special reading from the first chapter "Falling for Lies" that captivated everyone's attention. Last but not least, after each author had spoken about their publishing experiences, we pulled names for door prizes, signed books, ate cake, and sipped punch. Overall, I was very pleased with the turnout for this literary event. Hopefully, the next one, scheduled for February 1st for the "Sweetheart" anthology will be just as sweet...

Amani Publishing Blog Newsletter #3

2006-10-02T06:01:00.000-07:00

October 2006*

Welcome to the blog newsletter sponsored by Amani Publishing. A company based on faith, hope, and love.
*

QUOTE OF THE MONTH
“Publishing is only half of the battle. Marketing sums it all up.”
*

QUESTION OF THE MONTH
How many book sales are considered a success for a self-published author?

This is a very difficult question to answer. I’ve heard responses varying from five hundred to five thousand being quoted as successful figures. However, I believe that as long as you can sell every book that you pay to have printed, then you’re a successful self-published author whether it’s in the hundreds or the thousands. Once you’ve passed the “break-even” point, it’s all profit and that’s all that really matters.
*

BOOK REVIEWS
Here are the novels that I managed to read last month that I consider must-reads:

1) Chocolate Covered Forbidden Fruit (Trista Russell)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 5 stars

2) If Only (Elissa Kyle)
Genre: Romance
Rating: 5

3) Stone’s Revenge (Sylvia Hubbard)
Genre: Mystery/Romance
Rating: 5

4) Family, Friends, Husbands and Lovers (Gigi)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 4
*

HOW I MET MY SWEETHEART ANTHOLOGY
A collection of eighteen (18) short inspirational love stories will be officially released on Thursday, February 1. Pre-ordering is available now at: www.Amanipublishing.net
*

AUTHORS SIGNED WITH AMANI PUBLISHING
Amani Publishing welcomes four new authors into the literary fold this year:
Juanita E. Thomas, On Second Thought (November 2006)
Sylvia A. Thomas, Tough Skin (September 2006)
Max Parker, Jr., Just ?'s (July 2006)
Gloria Murphy Smith, Mirror to the Soul of a Woman (May 2006)

For more information about their books, please visit my website.
*

E-BOOK NOW AVAILABLE
A Writer’s Guide to Self-Publishing & Marketing (E-Book Edition) is now available for ordering. This comprehensive guide is the updated version of “One Sister’s Guide to Self-Publishing.” It features a special section focusing on marketing and promoting your new book on a budget. Order your download now for only $5.00
*

NEW BOOK RELEASE PARTY
Falling for Lies, my third novel, will be officially released on Saturday, October 21, 2:30 p.m., at the Jack McLean Community Center on Paul Russell Road. Falling for Lies is the story of Pastor Karema Wright who falls in love with Deacon Pye, the most eligible bachelor in her church. But is she falling for him or simply falling for his lies? You'll have to read this fast paced novel to find out. Visit my website to pre-order your autographed copy, and check out what reviewers are already saying about this book!

Four talented authors will also be on the program titled “Authors Speak” at the book release party: Gloria Murphy Smith, Marilynn Griffith, Sylvia A. Thomas, and Max Parker, Jr. will be present to talk about their publishing experiences and sign copies of their new books. This will be an opportunity for you to get up close and personal with these fine writers. Please RSVP by Friday, October 13, 2006, for this event.
*

PARTICIPATION NEEDED
If you'd like to participate in the "Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh" handbook creation, please send your submissions to my email address at: Amanipublishing@aol.com. Here are the official guidelines:
1) Send in one sentence, one paragraph, or one page with your comment(s);
2) Submissions must be received by December 31, 2006.

If your comment(s) is used in the book, you'll be given full credit. This marriage handbook will offer an idea for each week of the year to keep your relationship fresh.
*

FAMU's SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS

Amani Publishing will be conducting three workshops with the SBDC this fall:
1) Saturday, October 7, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Beginning Writing
2) Saturday, November 4, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
3) Saturday, December 3, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Marketing Techniques

All workshops are $20.00 and open to the public. Please call, 599-3407, for more details.
*

TALLAHASSEE WOMAN MAGAZINE
Look for a profile of me in the “Tallahassee Woman Magazine” December/January issue in the WOMEN TO WATCH section. For more information about this magazine with a distributorship of 24,000 and a readership of over 70,000, visit their website at www.TallahasseeWomanMagazine.com
*

FLORIDA COURIER
This statewide black-owned newspaper will run an article on me and publishing this month tentatively titled, “Florida Publisher Reaches Out to Others.” I don’t have a publication date yet, so just be on the look-out for the newspaper or visit their website at
www.Flcourier.com
*

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Capital City Chamber of Commerce meets on the 4th Monday of each month.
American Business Women's Association meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
Tallahassee Writer's Association meets on the 4th Thursday of each month.
For more information, please contact me.
*

See ya next month on the web…

Barbara Joe Williams, Owner
Amani Publishing, P. O. Box 12045, Tallahassee, FL 32317
Website: Amanipublishing.net
Email: Amanipublishing@aol.com
850-878-1006 fax
850-264-3341 phone
Call me now!

Amani Publishing Blog Newsletter #2

2006-08-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

September 2006*

Welcome to the blog newsletter sponsored by Amani Publishing. A company based on faith, hope, and love.
*

QUOTE OF THE MONTH
"Don’t procrastinate, make your dreams come true today."
*

QUESTION OF THE MONTH
How difficult is it to get self-published books into the major bookstores?

It’s not difficult, but it’s not easy either. In order to get into a major bookstore, like Barnes & Noble’s, you must first secure a distributor. Then, mail-out a packet including your book to that particular bookstore requesting that they carry it. And if they chose to do so, they’ll notify you and order books directly from the distributor. For more information, please purchase a copy of my self-publishing guide.
*

FIVE MISTAKES SELF-PUBLISHED AUTHORS MAKE
1) Not allowing a budget for editing.
2) Not making the book available for pre-ordering.
3) Not promoting their books outside the bookstores.
4) Not testing the book cover.
5) Spending too much money on advertising.
*

BOOK REVIEWS
Here are the novels that I managed to read last month that I truly enjoyed:

1) Jade (Marilynn Griffith)
Genre: Christian fiction
Rating: 5 stars
www.Marilynngriffith.com

2) When A Sistah’s Fed Up (Monica Anderson)
Genre: Fiction
Rating: 5 stars
www.Drmoeanderson.com

3) Secret Lovers (Phillips, Thompson, & McGriff)
Genre: Romance
Rating: 5
www.urbanbooks.net

4) Stealing Innocence (Sylvia Hubbard)
Genre: Mystery/Romance
Rating: 5
www.Sylvia.Hubbard.homestead.com

To read my full review of each book, please visit www.Amazon.com! You may also visit the author’s website to read a free excerpt.
*

SWEETHEART WRITING CONTEST WINNERS
The deadline for the contest has passed, and the seventeen (17) winners are:

Aleigha Butler, Georgia
Alesica Smith, Ohio
Anne Haw Holt-Webb, Florida
April McDermid, Florida
Deborha Parham, Georgia
Francina Roberts Cargile, Florida
Juanita E. Thomas, Florida
Kim Robinson, Texas
H. Renay Anderson, Texas
Lance Washington, Louisiana
LaShaunda Hoffman, Missouri
Luvenia Hill-James, Florida
Patricia Woodside, Florida
Shauna Stephens-Batts, Florida
Sherille Fisher, Texas
Sylvia A. Thomas, Florida
Vien Jernigans, Florida

Mark your calendars for the official release date on Thursday, February 1, 2007.

One short story titled, “Sweet Sunday Morning,” by Sylvia A. Thomas has been selected to be the featured sample on the website. Please check it out today!
*

AUTHORS SIGNED WITH AMANI PUBLISHING
Amani Publishing welcomes four new authors into the literary fold:

Juanita E. Thomas,On Second Thought (November 2006)
Sylvia A. Thomas,Tough Skin (September 2006)
Max Parker, Jr.,Just ?'s (July 2006)
Gloria Murphy Smith, Mirror to the Soul of a Woman(May 2006)

For more information about their books, please visit my website listed above.
*

E-BOOK NOW AVAILABLE
A Writer’s Guide to Self-Publishing & Marketing (E-Book Edition) is now available for ordering. This comprehensive guide is the updated version of “One Sister’s Guide to Self-Publishing.” It features a special section focusing on marketing and promoting your new book on a budget. Order your download now for only $5.00
*

AUTHORS “ON THE SET”
Join me along with two other authors, Gloria Murphy Smith and Marilynn Griffith, at Florida A&M University “On the Set” flea market on Friday, September 8, 15, & 29, from 9:00 – 3:00 p.m. All books will be specially priced at $10.00 a book for these signings. You don’t want to miss out on this!
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NEW BOOK RELEASE PARTY
Falling for Lies, my third novel, will be officially released on Saturday, October 21, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., at the Jack McLean Community Center on Paul Russell Road. Falling for Lies is the story of Pastor Karema Wright who falls in love with Deacon Pye, the most eligible bachelor in her church. But is she falling for him or simply falling for his lies? You'll have to read this fast paced novel to find out. Visit my website to pre-order your autographed copy, and check out what reviewers are already saying about this book!

Four talented authors will also be on the program titled “Author’s Speak” at the book release party: Gloria Murphy Smith, Marilynn Griffith, Sylvia A. Thomas, and Max Parker, Jr. will be present to talk about their publishing experiences and sign copies of their new books. This will be an opportunity for you to get up close and personal with these fine writers. Please RSVP by Friday, October 13, 2006, for this event.
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FAMU HOMECOMING BOOK SIGNING
FAMU's Campus Bookstore will host authors Gloria Murphy Smith, Marilynn Griffith, and Barbara Joe-Williams for a special homecoming book signing on Friday, October 27, from 11:00 - 2:00 p.m. Please come by to say hello and wish us well.
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PARTICIPATION NEEDED
If you'd like to participate in the "Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh" handbook creation, please send your submissions to my email address at: Amanipublishing@aol.com. Here are the official guidelines:
1) Send in one sentence, one paragraph, or one page
with your comment(s);
2) Submissions must be received by December 31,
2006.

If your comment(s) is used in the book, you'll be given full credit. This marriage handbook will offer an idea for each week of the year to keep your relationship fresh.
*

FAMU's SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS
Amani Publishing will be conducting three workshops with the SBDC this fall:
1) Saturday, October 7, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Beginning Writing
2) Saturday, November 4, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
3) Saturday, December 3, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Marketing Techniques

All workshops are $20.00 and open to the public at 1363 E. Lafayette Street. Please call to make reservations a week before each session, 599-3407, or they will be cancelled.
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AP PRICE CHANGES
As of August 15, new prices for publishing and typing are as follows:

Package A: (050 – 100 pages) $1,000 w/050 books
Package B: (101 – 150 pages) $1,500 w/100 books
Package C: (151 – 200 pages) $2,000 w/150 books
Package D: (201 – 250 pages) $2,500 w/200 books

Typing: $3.00 per page (double-spacing)
$6.00 per page (single-spacing)
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OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Capital City Chamber of Commerce meets on the 4th Monday of each month.
American Business Women's Association meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
Tallahassee Writer's Association meets on the 4th Thursday of each month.
For more information, please contact me.
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See ya next month on the web…

Barbara Joe Williams, Owner
Amani Publishing, P. O. Box 12045, Tallahassee, FL 32317
Website: Amanipublishing.net
Email: Amanipublishing@aol.com
850-878-1006 fax
850-264-3341 phone
Call me now!

First Amani Publishing Blog Newsletter

2006-07-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

August 2006
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Welcome to the first blog newsletter sponsored by Amani Publishing. A company based on faith, hope, and love.
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Quote of the month:
"Marriage is a whole house, not just a master bedroom."
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SWEETHEART WRITING CONTEST DEADLINE EXTENDED
Although ten winners have been confirmed for the "How I Met My Sweetheart" Writing Contest, the deadline date has been extended to Friday, August 18, 2006. For official submission guidelines, please visit my website at: www.Amanipublishing.net
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NEW AUTHORS SIGNED WITH AMANI PUBLISHING
Amani Publishing welcomes three new authors into the literary fold:
Gloria Murphy Smith, Mirror to the Soul of a Woman (May 2006)
Max Parker, Jr., Just ?'s (July 2006)
Sylvia A. Thomas, Tough Skin (September 2006)

For more information about their books, please visit my website listed above.
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BARNES & NOBLE BOOK SIGNING
Local authors Marilynn Griffith (Made of Honor); Anne Haw Holt (Kendrick); Gloria Murphy Smith (Mirror to the Soul of a Woman); and Barbara Joe-Williams(Dancing with Temptation) will sign copies of their books on Saturday, August 26, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., at Barnes & Nobles Bookstore in Tallahassee Mall.
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NEW BOOK RELEASE PARTY
Mark your calendars now. Falling for Lies, my third novel, will be officially released on Saturday, October 21, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., at the Jack McLean Community Center on Paul Russell Road. Falling for Lies is the story of Pastor Karema Wright who falls in love with a deacon in her church. But is she falling for him or simply falling for his lies? You'll have to read this fast paced novel to find out. Pre-ordering is available now from my website with FREE shipping until October 1st. Order now to reserve your autographed copy.
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FAMU HOMECOMING BOOK SIGNING
FAMU's Campus Bookstore will host authors Gloria Murphy Smith, Marilynn Griffith, and Barbara Joe-Williams for a special homecoming book signing on Friday, October 27, from 11:00 - 2:00 p.m. Please come by to say hello and wish us well.
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AP BOOK RELEASE SCHEDULE
AP plans to release the following books within the next two years:
Falling for Lies (October 2006)
How I Met My Sweetheart (February 2007)
A Man of My Own (October 2007)
Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh (February 2008)
Let's Get Married, Today (October 2008)
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PARTICIPATION NEEDED
If you'd like to participate in the "Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh" handbook creation, please send your submissions to my email address at: Amanipublishing@aol.com. Here are the official guidelines:
1) Send in one sentence, one paragraph, or one page with your comment(s);
2) Submissions must be received by December 31, 2006.

If your comment(s) is used in the book, you'll be given full credit. This marriage handbook will offer an idea for each week of the year to keep your relationship fresh.
*

FAMU's Small Business Development Center Workshops
Amani Publishing will be conducting three workshops with the SBDC this fall:
1) Saturday, October 7, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Beginning Writing
2) Saturday, November 4, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing
3) Saturday, December 3, 10:00 - 12:00 p.m.
Marketing Techniques

All workshops are $20.00 and open to the public at 1363 E. Lafayette Street. Please call to make reservations a week before each session, 599-3407, or they will be cancelled.
*

PRICING CHANGES
AP summer price special will end on Tuesday, August 15, 2006. For a new price list for publishing and typing fees, please contact me via e-mail.
*

OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS
Capital City Chamber of Commerce meets on the 4th Monday of each month.
American Business Women's Association meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month.
Tallahassee Writer's Association meets on the 4th Thursday of each month.
For more information, please contact me.
*

Thank you for reading the first edition of the Amani Publishing Blog Newsletter. Your comments and suggestions would be sincerely appreciated. See ya next month on the web.

Barbara Joe-Williams, Owner
Amani Publishing
P. O. Box 12045
Tallahassee, FL 32317
Website: Amanipublishing.net
Email: Amanipublishing@aol.com
850-878-1006 fax
850-264-3341 phone
Call me now!

Moving the Furniture

2006-07-12T21:44:00.000-07:00

Barbara Joe Speaks

Now that the "How I Met My Sweetheart Contest" deadline has passed, I'm proud to announce that we have ten winners who may have their stories published in February 2007. And the winners are:

1) Aleigha Butler, Atlanta
2) Alesica Smith, Cleveland
3) April McDermid, Tallahassee
4) Vien Jernigan, Tallahassee
5) LaShaunda Hoffman, St. Louis
6) Juanita E. Thomas, Tallahassee
7) Anne Haw Holt-Webb, Tallahassee
8) Shauna Stephens-Batts, Miami
9) Sherille Fisher, Houston
10)Francina Roberts, Tallahassee

I would like to thank them for their participation because I look forward to publishing their various stories. I'll post more information as we get closer to the release date. But I see a party in the making!

In addition, I've moved on to another project titled "Moving the Furniture: 52 Ways to Keep Your Marriage Fresh" in response to my anniversary blog. Apparently, there are alot of married and single people looking for relationship advice who want to capitalize on my twenty-five years of marital experiences and guess what? I'm willing to share. Unfortunately, I probably won't be able to publish this book until February 2008 due to my other commitments for next year. But don't worry, the time is going to pass quickly, and we're going to have fun in the process. The book is going to be labeled as a Marriage Handbook giving couples something different to do for each week of the year to help keep their marriage fresh.

I'm asking for participants to send in one sentence, one paragraph, or one page with their contributions or suggestions for the book. If your comment(s) is selected, it will be published, and you will be given full credit for your submission. Isn't that exciting? I've already been flooded with emails this week, and I'm still looking for more until the end of the year. I want this book to be full of information and it will be with your cooperation. So keep the ideas coming and I'll keep writing. Lots of love...

25th Wedding Anniversary

2006-06-28T21:35:00.000-07:00

It's the day after my 25th wedding anniversary, and I'm sitting here wondering where has the time gone. It seems like only yesterday when I saw him walking down the street of NAS JAX headed in my direction wearing his sharply pressed Marine Corps uniform. Now it's 25 years later, and we're still together and still in love. And although our love has changed with the times, we've managed to keep it on a level playing field. Because people do change and considering that we married at such a young age (I was 20 and he was 23) we've both changed quite a bit. But the key is that we've adjusted to each other's changing personalities, tastes, and most importantly, our bodies.

Over the course of our union, I've seen many friends and family members get married and then get divorced, and then get married again and divorced again. Each time I hear of someone getting married, my heart jumps with joy to know that in this day and age of prominent promiscuity, couples are still finding their way to the altar. And then when I hear about that same couple getting divorced years later (or sometimes months later) it deeply saddens me to know that someone's family is falling apart. Three years ago when I was writing my first novel titled "Forgive Us This Day" about a married couple that has been together for 15 years when the wife discovers that her husband has cheated with an ex-girlfriend, I did some research on marriage and infidelity. Here's some of the facts that I discovered: In 2000, 58 million couples were married, yet separated. People between the ages of 25-39 make up 60% of all divorces. Over 1 million children are affected by divorce each year. And 50% of married couples never make it to their 15th wedding anniversary. These are startling figures so let me try to give some advice to those seeking a mate by answering some of the questions that I've been frequently asked over 25 years of marriage.

1. How do you know if HE is "the one?"
First of all, if you have to ask yourself that question. He probably isn't "the one" that you're going to marry. However, if that answer is too vague, here's some alternative questions to ask yourself: How does he treat me? How do I feel when I'm with him? Has he ever disrespected me? How does he treat his mother? How does he treat his sister? How does he treat homeless people that he met on the street asking for money? Because in all honesty, that's probably how he's going to treat you. And for me, marriage is all about treatment.

2. How do you know when it's tme to "let it go?"
Well, it's time to let it go when you're no longer being treated the way that you wish to be treated in the relationship. However, you should make sure that you've exhausted all efforts and given your mate every opportunity to change their behavior towards you. This is why communication is crucial in maintaining a stable environment. If your man is not aware of your unhappiness, how can he make you happy. Of course, he should have some hints that you're not happy, but don't give him hints, give him conversation. Let him know what's on your mind before he runs out of time.

3. How do you keep romance alive in your marriage?
Well, this is the one that I write about in my books. And while I haven't given away all of my secrets, this is a very important aspect to any long-term marriage. People get bored with each other, couples fall in and out of love, marriage has it's ups and downs, but you keep looking for new ways to keep the sparks burning. I used to change my living room furniture around every month just to get my husband's attention, and normally he would notice it right away when he came home. One day he told me, "You know, you change things around so much until I never know what I'm coming home to." I smiled inside as I planted a soft kiss on his lips because that was exactly what I wanted to hear.

So on our 25th wedding anniversary, we celebrated by staying home with our daughter and having a nice family dinner together complete with a decorated cake for dessert. Amani sung "Happy Birthday" because she knew that we were celebrating something, even though we tried explaining "anniversary" to her, she still related it to a birthday because of the cake (I guess). Anyway, my present to him was one of his favorite things in the world, a well seasoned home-cooked meal. And his present to me was washing the dishes while I soaked in the tub. Now, that's a marriage made in heaven to me...

Sweetheart Writing Contest

2006-05-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

What started out as a pleasant conversation at a New Year's Eve party, has turned into a writing contest sponsored by Amani Publishing titled "How I Met My Sweetheart." This pass New Year's Eve I was invited to a party hosted by two of my dearest friends. During the course of the evening, the hostess turned to me and asked "How did you meet your husband?" Well, by the time everyone in the room had answered that question, we were all laughing hysterically. Three or four days later, I was still laughing. Suddenly, it dawned on me that I'd been asked that question many times before, and it usually came up during some type of party or social event. And it always led to an engaging fun-filled evening. I enjoyed listening to everyone's story and figured that other's would enjoy hearing such humorous and inspirational love stories as well.

Now it's four months later, and Amani Publishing is proud to announce the "How I Met My Sweetheart" anthology writing contest. At least ten winners will be selected to have their stories printed in the anthology to be published next year in February. Hopefully, the book will be ready in time for Valentine's Day as a special gift for those looking for love as well as those that have been fortunate enough to find a great love. After twenty-four years of marriage, I have to admit that I'm one of the lucky ones. And I can't wait to share my (military) story. For contest details and more information, please visit my website at: www.Barbarajoewilliams.com

Favorite Books

2006-05-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love to read. So with that in mind, I'd like to share my top five favorite books that I've read this year. Mind you, I haven't had nearly the time to read that I once had but I still try to get in at least a couple of good books a month. Here's my list in alphabetical order because I couldn't pick the top one:

1) Caught Up by Deitra King-Bey
This story had everything you want in a novel. It had mystery, intrique, suspense, romance, and was a very well written story. I couldn't put the book down and when I did, it called my name.

2) Falling for Lies by Barbara Joe-Williams
Release date: October 2006
This is a story about a female Baptist minister who's falling in love with a deacon in the church. But is she really falling in love with the deacon or is she simply falling for his lies. I don't know, but you'll have to wait until October to find out.

3) Made of Honor by Marilynn Griffith
It's a funny story that will make you laugh out loud. Dana Rose is a full-size sister that has been a bridesmaid ten times. Will she ever be a bride?

4) More Than Grace by Kendra Norman-Bellamy
This story was the bomb! Normally, I'm a very fast reader but I had to read this one slow because I didn't want it to end.

5) Soul Journey by Jacquelin Thomas
Journee is a female minister who has longed to be a pastor (just like her father) all of her life. The problem is that her father does not approve of her career choice.

So there, you have the list of my favorite fictions for this year. I'm looking forward to reading some more great stores before the end of the year and sharing them with you. So please stay tuned and let me know what you think...Until next time...

Local Media

2006-04-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

Since I self-published my first novel titled, "Forgive Us This Day," in November 2004, I've been trying to get the attention of the local media. I've faithfully courted the Capital Outlook, Tallahassee Democrat, and radio personalities to no avail. Recently, however, my latest book titled, "Dancing with Temptation," was mentioned in the Tallahassee Democrat newest book section called, Opening Lines. And I was also interviewed for an upcoming featured article on local romance writers. With that in mind, I must say that in the past, I've heard negative comments about the Democrat as far as racism and therefore, I thought that I would have a better chance of being featured in a newspaper whose primary focus is supposed to be on African-Americans. I figured that I would be greeted with open arms especially since I've been reading their paper for umpteen years. But after almost two years of trying to get their attention, I simply did something that I don't normally do (give up). Anyway, the point that I'm trying to make here is that sometimes our blessings come in the most unlikely places and from the most unexpected people. As a self-published author, I've learned that sometimes it's harder to sell books to your targeted audience than it is to the masses of people. From now on when I'm asked "Who is your target audience?" my reply will be simple, "Anyone who's looking to read a well written contemporary romance novel with spiritual overtones." After all that's what I write, and that's what I'm trying to sell to ANYONE who's interested...

Little Rock Book Tour

2006-03-26T23:01:00.000-08:00

I must say that the Little Rock Book Tour surpassed my imagination. I mean I was treated like royalty everywhere I went by everyone that I met. Of course, it was great to spend time with my family and get to meet new people from all walks of life that were interested in reading, writing, and publishing. I have to give a special shout out to Dr. Rhonda Mattox from the "Bumblebee Enthusiasts Bookclub" for making all of the engagements possible and transporting me around town in-between her working hours. She has been and continues to be my strongest supporter and I love her for that. Now if I miss anyone or if anyone feels left out, I sincerely apologize because it's impossible to remember all the names but let me try to get all the places right. The tour started with a book signing at Barnes & Noble in North Little Rock where I was greeted by a fantastic staff. Then, I moved on to the Black Community Developers, Inc. program celebrating Women's History Month as their guest speaker. Next, I spent the evening with a terrific class at Pulaski Technical College hosted by my friend, Ms. Muldrew. The next day was spent at Philander Smith College with a workshop on Self-Publishing with a group of interesting students. The University of Arkansas in Little Rock (UALR) was kind enough to host a book signing on the last day of school before their Spring Break. The traffic was a little slow but we still moved about a dozen books. Friday evening was spent signing books at the Calypso Bay Restaurant in Hot Springs. If you're ever in the area, you don't want to miss this fantastic eating place with a warm combination of Island and American foods prepared by a five star chef. Saturday afternoon was spent at the Williams Library with another workshop on Self-Publishing and a reception hosted by the friendly library staff. Finally, I spent Saturday night with the "Sistahs of Color Reading Group" hosted my Ms. Lareeta Robinson, helping them celebrate their fourth anniversary with authors Brenda Jackson and Marcia King-Gamble along with Sherice Smith, a reviewer for Romance Divas on-line magazine. I even took a picture with Brenda Jackson, got an autographed copy of one of her books, and sold a few of my own books in the back of the room. Now I ask you, could it get any better than that? Like I said in the beginning, it surpassed anything that I had imagined or prepared myself for. I hope that everyone who purchased a book from me or simply stopped by to say "hello" will contact me sometime in the future with a few words of encouragement. Because all of you have certainly inspired me to keep writing, keep working, and keep doing something. So in closing, I'm asking you to keep in touch with one sister who loves receiving e-mail and reading responses to her blogs...

Barbara Joe Speaks

2006-03-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends,

Thanks for all of the e-mails regarding my blog posts. It great to know that someone out there in cyberspace is listening to me even though they didn't post a comment on the blog. I know this concept is still very new to some of you because I just started blogging a few months ago myself. But it's a great avenue for meeting people and having fun on the internet. For those of you interested in joining my bookclub, here's the correct web address: http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/barbarajoewilliamsbookclub/ and for those of you interested in reading an excerpt from my novels or buying a copy, here's my official website address: www.barbarajoewilliams.com
Again, thanks for all of your support and comments. Please keep reading my blog and staying in touch with me.

I'm so excited because I just finished my third novel. I've already mailed it out to several agents and publishers. So I'm waiting to see what happens next. Don't worry, I'll keep you posted...

2006-02-28T11:07:00.000-08:00

Barbara Joe Williams Bookclub

2006-02-25T19:36:00.000-08:00

The Barbara Joe Williams Book Club is for readers looking for great books, great friendships, and great fun! Members will have the chance to chat with fellow readers and receive information about book conferences and book signings. You will also get the latest, hot-off the press news about upcoming books. You'll also have the chance to chat directly with Barbara Joe Williams. This is the place for readers to be to indulge their love for reading dynamic books that celebrate faith, hope, and love!

I'll also be doing book reviews and posting them there. I still try to read at least one book a month. In the last couple of weeks, I've read two books. One was a fiction and one was a non-fiction. I don't normally read non-fiction books but this one titled, Matters of the Heart by Juanita Bynum, came highly recommended so I decided to give it a try. It was a good book that showed me how God can give each of us a new heart if we're willing to make changes in our lives. It really made me examine myself, and I was able to determine exactly when I was given my new heart and what all it entailed. Pastor Bynum speaks straight from her heart in this book.

The second book that I read this month was titled, Caught Up by Deatri King-Bey. She's a debut author from Joliet, Illinois. All I can say is that it's been a long time since I've read an entire book in one day, but once I started reading this novel, I knew it had to be finished before I went to bed. This story had all the things that I like rolled into one: mystery, romance, family, suspense, thriller, I mean if you can name it-- it was in there. She did a fantastic job in her first release, and I'm looking forward to reading more of her books. Here's the link for subscribing to the book club: http:groups.yahoo.com/group/barbarajoewilliamsbookclub . So come on over and chat with me and some of my fans. You might be delighted with what you'll find.

Blogging

2006-02-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Wow! I must say that I'm amazed at the response to the last blog that I posted on "Christian fiction vs. Regular fiction." As I stated before, it seems to be a very controversial topic which is evidenced by the responses that I have received. I appreciate the posted comments, the private e-mails, and the telephone calls regarding this post. I'm sure that this will continue to be a topic of debate for many years to come especially since more and more authors seem to be focusing on "Church drama stories." I'm just happy to see someone respond to something that I've written with such conviction.

While I have your ears, can someone tell me the difference between Christian fiction and Inspirational fiction. Is there a difference? Can a story be non-Christian yet be classified as inspirational?

Christian Fiction vs. Regular Fiction

2006-02-02T06:58:00.000-08:00

Recently I've noticed a lot of controversy over the topic of "Christian fiction vs. Regular fiction." Because of my first novel titled, "Forgive Us This Day," many readers assume that I write Christian fiction. My reply is that "I'm a Christian, and I'm a writer, but my work is not classified as Christian literature." So let me explain myself. Christian fiction especially Christian romance novels are based on the main characters maintaining sound Christian values which does not include engaging in the use of profanity, premarital sex, or extramarital sex. And if any characters within the context of the novel should happen to engage in sexual activity, there are no explicit details. Now I don't have a problem with this, and I wholeheartedly accept these values. My concern with this type of work is that Christian writers are mainly reaching other Christian folk. In other words, to me, it's like the "Pastor preaching to the choir. " If everyone in the choir is saved, why are you preaching to them? Sure, you're going to reach the good Christian folk, but what about the Regular folk that need to be told about Jesus. They're not going to buy anything labeled "Christian fiction" because in their minds, it does not apply to them, and they do not want to be preached to. So after many hours, days, and nights of prayer, this is how my writing philosophy evolved. In other words, I believe this is the charge that was given to me. My writing can be described as "contemporary romance novels with spiritual overtones." What I try to do is write about Regular people that are having problems, going through some trials and tribulations, but in the end they find Jesus and are able to turn their lives around and save their relationships. I tell their stories in their languages the way that it occurs in their secular lives. Then, I take my characters through a series of events which leads to introspective thoughts which eventually leads to a spiritual transformation from their Regular lives. Now I know that this is also the ultimate goal of the Christian fiction writer, but this is my point: Although we have the same goals in mind, we're just reaching them (or should I say the people) in different ways. It's my understanding that Jesus walked the earth looking like a Regular person. He wasn't dressed in what we now refer to as our "Sunday best" like silk suits and alligator shoes. He lead the masses of people by looking like them, walking with them, and then by leading them to a different life. So while I'm not condoning the sinful behavior of the characters in my novels; I am showing their reality which is also the reality of many readers searching for a higher spiritual power. Hopefully, through reading my works, it will help clarify their journey.

Printing vs. Publishing

2006-01-13T15:12:00.000-08:00

If you're thinking about becoming a self-published author. You need to learn the difference between printing and publishing. Many aspiring writers want to know how much it cost to have a book printed with x number of pages thinking that's the only price involved with publishing a book. Wrong! Sure you have to pay to have the books printed but there are many variable costs involved at that stage and even before you get to that stage.

In order to have a book published, there are some things that must be done before you ever e-mail your text and cover file to the printer. First and foremost, you have to apply and pay for a business license and a registered business name. While you may love the art of writing, publishing is a business and must be treated as such. As with any business, you must have the proper tools which includes a computer, software, paper, printer, office supplies, etc. I'm surprised at how many aspiring writers don't have computers and/or don't know how to type. So this is another cost if you have to pay someone to type and format your handwritten work.

Then, you have to pay someone to edit the manuscript once it's completed. In fact, you may have to pay someone several times for this process before you're really satisfied. This is an important step that some self-published author's overlook and do their own editing. Please don't make that mistake because "two heads are better than one." If you can't afford an editor, at least ask someone you know with proofreading skills to look over your manuscript and give you some suggestions or feedback. Even with an editor, the two of you may not catch all the errors, but it will certainly help you cut down on the number in the final copy.

Once you feel that your copy is ready for print, you have to register and pay for a copyright and an International Standard Business Number (ISBN). Yes, that's another expense. And if you want your books to be carried in the library system, you have to register for a library control number.

Now that the manuscript has been properly edited, it's time to format the copy according to the size book that you wish to publish. Again, if you don't know how to do this, then you have to make a trip to Kinko's or Target and pay them to do this important step and save it to a disk as a PDF file. Then, it's time to work on your cover or pay someone to design it for you. This can be a very time consuming stage as well as an expensive one. The cover file will also have to be converted to a PDF file before submitting to your printer.

Finally, you're ready to hunt for a printer. There are many variables involved in the printing price. For instance, you will be asked the following questions: How many pages is the book? What color of paper do you want? What size is the book? Do you want a laminated cover? Do you want a paperback cover or a hardback? Do you want a picture on the back cover?

The day that your printed books are received, you become a published author. However, the process will begin a long time before that and so will the cost of publishing. But if you're still confused, you can pick up a copy of my book titled, One Sister's Guide to Self-Publishing: A Ten-Step Program to Success. Happy publishing!

Why I Decided to Write and Self-Publish

2005-11-20T22:48:00.000-08:00

I have been an avid reader all of my life. I especially love reading romance novels. I can trace my love for this genre back to being a teenager during the seventies. My mother loved to read the Harlequin Romance series, and she often bought the magazines featuring true love stories that were really popular during that time. I can remember sneaking to my room to read her books and magazines whenever I had the chance. As I became an adult, I developed a passion for reading love stories along with mysteries and an assorted variety of magazines. Most of my life has been devoted to reading at least one novel a week. So after years of reading romance novels, I was finally inspired to write one of my own. I was on Christmas break a couple years ago from the community college where I was employed as a Reading Assistant when I made a trip to my local bookstore. I wanted to read a positive love story about a long-term married couple that was going through some trials and tribulations that they would be able to overcome. To my surprise, there were very few books available that fit this criterion. In fact, there weren't many romance novels involving married couples at all. I began to really think about the type of story that I wanted to read when the idea for a romantic storyline suddenly entered my mind. I thought abut the concept for days before sharing it with my husband of twenty-four years, and his reaction alone motivated me to bring the novel to fruition. He told me and I quote, "Barbara, as much as you read, you should be able to write something." That night I prayed for guidance and the very next morning, I started writing donw all my ideas for this story which eventually became titled, "Forgive Us This Day." After going through the query process and mailing off manuscripts looking for an agent and/or a publisher, I decided that wasn't the route that I wanted to go. I didn't want to spend the next month or the next year of my life waiting for someone to give me a writing contract. Besides, I guess I could only take so much rejection for something that I was determined to do anyway. So I started searching the Internet for other authors that had traveled the self-publishing road and was surprised at who all I found. Some of my favorite authors including: Kimberla Lawson Roby, Michael Baisden, Terry McMillan, Karen E. Quinones Miller, and John Grisham just to name a few. All of their stories inspired me and gave me the extra motivation that I needed to step out on faith in their footsteps. After years of reading so many books, it seemed like a natural progression for me to become a writer. One thing is for sure, it's a decision that I'll never regret!