155 Books Published by Independently Published on AALBC — Book Cover Collage

I’ve been writing one page poems over the past decade, about everything from history, life, politics, racism, daily observations, and more. From my experiences growing up in Indianapolis to traveling around the world while serving in the US Navy, and working in corporate America, I’ve written about my experiences and opinions about nearly everything. My journey (so far) is here for you to read.

Three Poems form the Book

#1 Good grief

I’ve only been to a handful of funerals
So I don’t have much experience with grief
Dreading sorrow, from life lost to time’s thief
A friend described a sad scene that hit me like a rock
At a cemetery, on Mother’s Day, four spaces from his mother’s plot
He arrived with flowers, to pay his respects
And saw a toddler with a tea set, dressed in her Sunday best
She cried, ‘I miss you mommy, so I made you some tea’
I felt heartbroken for her, and embarrassed by my trivial ‘woe is me’
A few yards away stood her father, with a tearful and watchful eye
As his daughter asked to be alone by the grave, all he could do was cry
My friend left, so that the father and daughter could grieve
I said a prayer for the unknown family, as a chill ran up my sleeve
What if we were the bereaved?
Could my daughter process my loss with such grace?
If my daughter lost her mom, could I give her time and space?

#2 Middle Passage Martyr

Trapped, hot, and nauseous, eight weeks at sea
Naked, chained, unbearable shame, no longer free
Blood, shit, tears, vomit, and pee
Everywhere around me
Arms, legs, hands, and heads, writhing in pain
Curses, prayers, nonsense, going insane!
Will they beat me?
Will they eat me?
Deathly smell
This… Is… hell…
Why have we all been cursed?
Life or death, uncertain which is worse
Bruised, branded, and whipped, I can’t stand it!
The skin on my back, got cracked by the devil’s whip
After the third hit
I caught the tip, with a desperate grip!
We outnumber them - let’s take over the ship!
Put them below in chains, to lie in our shit!
Most ignored my plea and call to revolt
Too petrified to push, too broken to hope
Heads bowed and eyes darted down to the deck
As the sole mutineer, my fate was set
Still chained to bodies to my left and right
I pushed them behind me, with all of my might
As fire and smoke spewed from a cannon, I wasn’t too surprised
A flurry of rocks and metal was my untimely demise.

#3 I’m my ancestors’ wildest dream

I’m my ancestors’ wildest dream
Slaves who survived by any means
Necessary, freedom was a sweet blessing
Angels cheering for me, down from heaven

We can’t imagine living each other’s life
I can’t fathom their daily pain, struggle, and strife
So every class, test, event and game
I work hard and smart so that I can claim
Success for them, me and my family
Their survival and sacrifice is what made us free

So I make a daily vow
To make them proud
Me, a rookie on my family’s team
I’m my forefathers’ wildest dream
I’m my ancestors’ wildest dream

Middle class, but my great grands think I’m a king!
Slaves made this country great every beyond measure
Died broke but gave all us invaluable treasure
I share their hopes, blood, dreams, and genes
What didn’t kill them all, made them sing
Spirituals of low sweet chariots
They slept on the floor, now we stay at the Marriotts!
I thank them daily for their sacrifice
They all paid the ultimate price

I time travelled back into the distant past
150 or so years ago if you do the math
To see my great grandfather* who was born a slave
An asset, his second Master’s $1,500 mortgage paid

He died free, so they put a different name on his grave
Than the one that his cruel captors and masters gave
Branded, bought and sold with a bank approved mortgage
Then discarded like lost goods, for years left in storage
The ‘land of the free’ was a Ponzi scheme
But it’s okay and why I say that I’m their wildest dream.

Three Married Women and Her is a novel that explores adultery from the perspective of the wife and the other woman. From page one, both points of view are exposed. Watching the buildup to the inevitable clash between the wives and the other woman drives this novel to a heart pounding peak with no relief. Even after the titans meet, the plot continues to shock and surprise. There is no lull in the action.

Three Married Women and Her offers unpredictable and unexpected twists and turns throughout. Desire, retribution, hate, lust, love, and fear riffle through the pages of the novella. This story will be read in one or two sittings – probably one.

In Griner, noted political analyst Earl Ofari Hutchinson goes beneath the surface in her case. He examines the issues of race, gender, celebrity, the disparities in men’s and women’s pro sports, politics, and war that are deeply embedded in the Griner saga. Hutchinson places her arrest against the backdrop of the escalation in tensions between Russia and the U.S. over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Hutchinson asks did that make her a political pawn in the jockeying between the two countries over the war as many charged?

Griner is a fast, paced, laser look at how one pro basketball player, became for the moment, much more than just a basketball player.

Only roughly 50 percent of those who enter a doctoral program complete it within 10 years. Generally 61 percent of those who begin a master’s degree program earn the degree. This leaves a large number of advanced degree seekers more knowledgeable about their area of expertise, in debt and short of their goal. What if there was a way to jump back in and complete the degree that you started five or six years ago, but ultimately gave up on? If you are ABD (all but the doctorate) or half way through the master’s degree but never finished and you are ready to try again, this guide is for you.

Wonder why Black women are dying at 3 times higher rates surrounding childbirth?

This short story dedicated to mothers who tragically passed is a must-read for all Black women of child-birthing age. More than the average cautionary tale the story deftly guides the reader through a patchwork of knowledge towards improved outcomes.

Dr. Altha Harkens a young modern doctor returns to her home state of Georgia and is confronted with the breathtaking negative statistics, but instead of retreating she free falls into the intrigues of the healing traditions of her native community in Dublin, Georgia.

Emerged in her country heritage the usually standoffish physician finds herself blooming in the warmth of a mysterious old college acquaintance who still makes her shudder with an intensity that parallels Janie’s natural love in Zora Neal Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God.

As the tale unravels she learns how over the ages sisterhood, teamwork, friendship, sacrifice, and critical listening have been woven into a life-giving protective cover for the women of her community. An inevitable introduction to the original Quiltmaker seamstress and first renaissance woman of her town changes the trajectory of Altha’s life forever and introduces the reader to pathways to improved outcomes for Black women with child.

Includes Health Afterword with protection points. Partial proceeds to support improved outcomes for Black Mothers with Child.

After many obstacles, Transformation was birthed after being called to fulfill my life’s purpose. During an awakening period, I was inspired to write about the new journey and all that encompasses it, with the aim to inspire millions that are on the path of enlightenment.

In the book, I touch on various topics that helped me evolve on my path such as meditation, trauma/healing, and the power of the mind. My book stands as a true manifestation of the power of the mind and the understanding of the limitless potential we all possess to reach our true heart’s desires.

Transformation is a short, easy read, crafted especially for those who find it challenging to finish a book. Each chapter is relatable, real, and transparent, connecting with millions of people like myself who are just trying to find their authentic self and live in their purpose.

It is a psychological norm for individuals to not empathize with issues that do not affect them. History is often written by those who win in battle or conquer the minds of a population. America and much of this world have had a one-sided telling of history that is perpetuated into society. The victims of this perspective have been the descendants of Africa and other indigenous people around the world. We do not know how the Continent would have been if not interfered with. However, what if a new paradigm was created where Africa and its nations maintain a global superiority on this Earth?

BlackWash: The Untold Stories of Reverse Racism produces this narrative using factual events of the past and present. It is a fictional twist on nonfiction that the world needs to heal. This novel aims to produce a mental shift within its readers while alleviating systemic racism and oppression, without experiencing the same trauma lived by the subjugated. “My brothers and sisters do not be blind to the distractions in life, for which we are all connected”

Naturals: The Paper People are paper people who live inside books, called "Naturals." They come alive every so often to interact with people in the world and help them make decisions or learn new things. Their goal is to make the world a better place through loved, education, helpful gestures, and unity.

Our Hair and Shapes is about taking pride in one’s hair by exploring different types of natural hair styles. The book also focuses on shapes that we come into contact on a regular basis.

In the middle of her little sister’s wedding, Emani Miles realizes the number one question she will be asked is, when are you getting married? In the midst of this external crisis she comes face to face with her ex Terrence who she knows is no good for her but she has a hard time saying no to him. Emani surmises the only way to get away from her problems is to go on holiday to America to visit her cousin Ava. While at a party, Emani is introduced Ava’s friend, music producer and notorious player, Chance Good, and the chemistry is undeniable. Emani unexpectedly finds herself in a passionate romance unlike anything she’s experienced before. But when the holiday comes to an end will things remain the same? In this international love affair, can an easygoing English girl find love in the ATL?

Effective leadership is a formidable weapon and shield for subjugated people. Regardless of our opponents’ resources, we can outthink, outwork and outmaneuver them, and effective leadership is an important part of this winning recipe.

“I have written this book to help provide a basic and comprehensive understanding of community organizing and grassroots leadership to those who genuinely seek it and need it. This book is not a step-by-step leadership manual. Nor is it simply a huge list of leadership dos and don’ts. I combine leadership philosophy and theory, some helpful tips and suggestions about community organizing, and some discussions of how to execute certain important tasks pertaining to leadership and organizing.

My hope is that those of you who hold office in a Black organization will require fellow officers and members of your group to read this book and take my upcoming online leadership course as part of your political education/leadership training component.”

Inspired by true events. In 1932, a media frenzy ensues after the remains of Danielle, a gifted, enslaved songstress, are discovered in the wall of an abandoned mansion on the Soileau Plantation. Through her sister, who returns to the English and French-speaking parish to identify the body, newspaper reporters learn the complexities of Danielle’s life on and off the sugar plantation as a rented slave and former child companion of the master’s daughter. Known for her proficiency in herbal remedies, beauty, and likeness on the Soileau & Sons rum and sugar product art, Danielle is flawed, yet favored by her lascivious master, Demetre Soileau, and despised by his wife, Etiennette.

Exposed to the society of Louisiana Creoles of color and free Blacks, regarded as the "gens libre de couleur," Danielle catches the tender eye of a free mariner and business owner, Alphonse Santee, who is instrumental in her thirst for freedom, love, and the struggle to mend her broken family torn apart by turmoil and Demetre. Captured between love and obligation, Danielle soon becomes pregnant and the agonizing secrets between Etiennette and Danielle begin to unravel.

Song of Redemption is historical fiction filled with the rich culture of multi-parishes west of the Mississippi River. Malika J. Stevely artfully pries open a window to aspects of pre-Civil War life for communities of color that are rarely discussed in detail. This unique blend of suspense, romance, and family invites readers into an unforgettable journey of the past that will leave audiences riveted while touching the hearts of present and future generations.

Technique to become a better human being by utilizing the five senses, thoughts and emotions, and aligning the seven human traits with the spirit within.

When that once in a lifetime love comes into one’s life, it doesn’t have to be in a particular way. No one has control over whom they will grow in LOVE with. It can be a glance between two people from a distance. It can be someone we just happen to meet on vacation. It could happen anywhere, at any time to any two of us.

LOVE will not be denied. It seeks satisfaction and WILL be fulfilled at any cost. There is nowhere to hide from it. It will seek you out no matter how long it takes. It will bring two people together who are destined for the experience even if it is in the sunset of their lives. The explosiveness will be no less powerful, no matter what age level it happens.

People who have “so-called” fallen in love at a young age, and become separated, or were forced to separate due to others intervention, or circumstances, have come together decades later by what may seem to be happenstance. LOVE will not let anyone escape its grasp. Once Cupid’s arrow has been released, the target must be hit sure and true beyond time and existence.

A new children’s book written by Captain Bill Pinkney and illustrated by noted Chicago artist Pamela C. Rice, tells the story of Captain Bill’s historic solo sail around the world in 1990.

Sailing Commitment Around the World aims to inspire readers from 8 to 12-years-old with stories, adventures, and sights of the voyage and the lessons Captain Bill learned at sea: dream big, persevere and don’t be distracted by hurdles that come with moving forward.

“In the seventh grade I read a book by an author named Armstrong Sperry: Call It Courage, it was a story that touched my heart because I felt very much like the hero of the story. He, like me had been an outcast. He was an outcast because he was afraid of the water. I had been an outcast because in school I was one of a few black children and the other kids were not kind to us. I grew up without a father, (my parents divorced when I was six, so my mom, sister and I were on public aid for a while. Always on the outside never being a part of the crowd I felt alone. When I read the story about this young boy who was on the outside like me, and how he took his destiny into his own hands and had a great adventure, I knew that was what I wanted too.” — Bill Pinkney

When the spirit leaves the body after death, where does it go? What are the possible adventures it can experience? Are there Spiritual Beings, or ancestors guiding our spirit after our last breaths have left our bodies. Our imaginations can take us to those places, streams of consciousness and out of body travels that possibly await us. Let’s explore.

This is an autographed copy!

Chester Higgins celebrates the sacred agency of people of African descent and their influence on the foundation of Western religion. His images illustrate how faith migrated up and down the River Nile from Ethiopia to Egypt leaving vestiges of ancient practice in today’s worship. This visual portrayal of faith reexamines our spiritual beginnings.

The narrative on African divinity must be reexamined. Some will love it; others will be shocked. The reader’s understanding of history and the role of African people in faith-making is about to change.

“This visually stunning book also drops some serious knowledge about the cultural and religious connections between the lands that border the Nile; Ethiopia, Nubia, and Egypt from the dawn of history down to the present time. This knowledge is still rejected by many mainstream Egyptologists, but as they become more familiar with other African cultures, religious traditions, and languages, the connections described in this book will be confirmed in academia.” — Solange Ashby, Egyptologist, Barnard College

“What makes Sacred Nile so spectacular, and singular is what emerges from every image: reflecting an artist’s compassionate and intelligent gaze, held up by an abiding faith in the sacredness of each human being.” — Maaza Mengiste, author, The Shadow King

Ten years ago, Sheila Moore pushed Nicholas Washington out of her life because of her need to control, and her inability to believe that she was worth loving. In the last book of the Prodigal series, Sheila returns more mature and the mother of two teens. Nicholas returns to Charleston to teach and reclaim the woman of his heart, but is she ready to accept his love?

Just when Sheila and Nicholas finally reconnect, someone from his past shows up with a confession that will change their lives. Can Sheila resist the urge to revert to her former ways, or will she trust in Nicholas’s love for her?

After surviving a brutal attack on New Year’s Eve, Perchelle Prentice wants to push the horrid incident to the furthest corner of her mind. Too embarrassed to come clean, telling anyone would only expose how unaware and foolish she had been that fateful night. Things look like they were going well until she discovers that Torrie, her best friend, has a secret boyfriend. Once Perchelle finally meets him, she realizes that he has an eerie resemblance to the man that assaulted her. The situation snowballs into a dangerous nightmare when the new boyfriend realizes who she is and begins to stalk both women.

Mid-town Buppies, big-time mobsters, fabulous dancing queens, and unscrupulous promoters all come together in After Dark, a first-hand account of the birth and growth of the disco movement in the 1970s. Disco music has earned an unflattering reputation for being garish and flashy; however, it was the voice of a generation that spoke using the power of dance to unite people. Now, for the first time you can hear the compelling, never-been-told story of the rise of the New York disco scene.

In the late 1960s, a group of college students formed a social club called "The Best of Friends" (TBOF) and learned to monetize their love of dancing and music by building a multi-million-dollar network of discotheques. Their innovative DJing techniques transported dancers into a carefree state of euphoria that paved the way for "Saturday Night Fever," Studio 54, and the nationwide explosion of disco in the late ’70s.

TBOF discotheques attracted everyone from CEOs to mailroom clerks, from Rick James to Elizabeth Taylor, and from big-time mobsters to FBI agents. This unprecedented collection of humanity made it impossible to know what excitement would unfold each night. What the partners in TBOF did know is that After Dark, they had to be on their toes.

Second Edition of the AALBC Bestseller Harlem Hit & Run

Harlem Hit & Run is recent history wrapped in a murder mystery. It is full of the dialogue and details of how we were in the 1990s. Harlem is one of the complex characters. So is bad-ass actress native daughter Pearl Washington.

She plays Police Lt. Summer Knight in her action movies and she is studying the Buddha’s teaching as part of her martial arts training. Pearl chants over her friend who is hit by a car on 125th Street: “Remember all this fleeting world is a star at dawn, a bubble in a stream, a flash of lightening in a summer cloud, a flickering lamp, a phantom, and a dream.”

Pearl’s lover, a Harlem cop, hears her and asks her to lead his 28th Precinct police people in a meditation.

Neither Pearl nor readers will get inside the board room of the city’s only black-owned commercial bank, but they may find their footing on the threshold of the “Harlem Empowerment” we have witnessed since that time.

During the era of slavery in America, several slaves purchased their freedom and became entrepreneurs. The essence of entrepreneurship can transcend gender, culture and tradition. Some of the individuals in this book made a decision to move beyond their status as a slave. Some of them became history makers.

Growing up, Tamara Davison felt like a princess in the empire of her father’s megachurch ministry. She never wanted for anything, and in her eyes, life was pretty near perfect. It wasn’t until her NFL-bound boyfriend broke her heart and a sobering truth about her father’s past was revealed that Tamara began to question the perfect life she thought she had.

Jonathan Hartman loved Tamara Davison the moment he met her. Raised by a single mom who struggled to make ends meet, Jonathan worked two jobs in college. All that hard work paid off. Now he’s successful and rich beyond anything he ever imagined possible for a kid who came up the hard way like he did. It had been ten years since Tamara chose a pro-baller over giving Jonathan’s love a chance. Now Tamara is back in his life, and Jonathan must find a way to convince her that true love feels so much better than any fairytale she could ever dream up.

Once Upon A Dream is a reprint of Heaven On Earth, with 25% new content, book discussion questions, and a book club kit.

From a brutal and traumatizing rape, a nearly flawless and brilliant soul is conceived, destined for greatness beyond the unapologetic, harsh, and gritty streets of South Dallas. Through his unique, God-given gift of poetry, Innoxent, the name his mother chose for him with purpose to purify his conception, finds his life’s calling and strives to fulfill the promise that he will become somebody by any means despite his beginning. But first, Innoxent must navigate through the obstacles that come along with simply being young, male, and black in urban America.

His life becomes even more complicated when his mama, his heartbeat and rock, seeks the love and affection she so desperately desires in the wrong man. His uncle, the sole positive male in his life, disappointedly falls prey to fast-moneyand criminal activity that leads to a prison stint. With his mama being blinded by love, his family in chaos, and his best friend on the run, Innoxent finds comfort in his gift of words. And then he meets them, a girl he initially believes is out of his league, and a couple of accomplished black men who see his real potential to become more than the world expects of him. However, he’s still not immune to tragedy nor is he prepared for it. So, when it strikes, his world is shattered and the pain is insurmountable.

“Some black boys don’t get to be heroes in the movie.” Innoxent Monroe

Leah Davison has made some serious mistakes, but she refuses to give up as she tries to put her life back together. However, the secret she discovers about her preacher father, coupled with the abuse she suffered from a man she dated, shatters her faith in family, men, and God. Leah doesn’t know who to trust or where to turn.

Reconnecting with Cory Parker, an old church friend, proves to be a blessing that saves her life. But can Leah trust Cory with her heart? Cory Parker can’t afford any distractions. He’s staking his entire career on an IPO that must go off without any more glitches…but he can’t stop thinking about Leah and the fear he saw in her eyes. He’d give up everything in order to protect her; he’d walk through fire for the chance to love her.

During the most horrific time of her life, Leah must find a way to trust in God’s ability to protect her. With help from a praying family and a man who shows her love in action, Leah begins to believe that dreams really do come true.

Dream Come True is a reprint of Heaven Sent. However, this book has 70% new content, book discussion questions, and a book club kit.

Newer Version Available (2nd Edition)

I had to do the perp walk through a gauntlet of paparazzi at the 28th Precinct and I must say I finally understood the impulse to put a coat over your head. It didn’t take long for someone to recognize me. “Lt. Knight! Over here!”

Lt. Summer Knight is the badass I play in my action movies. But now I’m native daughter, at home in Harlem, reluctantly running the Harlem Journal, the weekly newspaper my Daddy left me when he died three weeks ago.

That’s Pearl Washington, the hero of Harlem Hit & Run, a murder mystery set during one week in November 1990 between two editions of the Journal. The news as all about a community bank. Harlem is a complex character in the story. So is Pearl.

She is studying the Buddha’s teaching as part of her martial arts training and finds herself in a Buddhist moment when, for instance, she has to decide whether or not to arm herself. And she chants over Cecelia Miller when her friend is hit and killed by a car on 125th Street: “Remember all this fleeting world is a star at dawn, a bubble in a stream, a flash of lightening in a summer cloud, a flickering lamp, a phantom, and a dream.”

Her lover, a Harlem cop, hears her and asks her to lead his 28th Precinct police people in a meditation. She does.

All The Things We Can Be, For Girls focuses many of the occupations that young African American girls and all girls can aspire to be.

In this coloring book we explore all the wonderful business that young boys can look forward to creating. Check out the sister book All The Things We Can Be For Girls

Man Heal Thyself: The Wellness Warrior’s Journey to Self-Mastery is a global call to wellness addressed to men. Each man is prompted to evaluate himself regarding his activities to support of his family and do the work he creates and produces in the world. Within the text are wellness protocols to practice personal development through daily disciplines. The tasks are designed to enable strengthening social, emotional, and spiritual wellness on the journey to self-mastery.

Winner of the 2022 Black Caucus of the American Library Association Award for best self-published fiction eBook by an African American author.

Gabbie isn’t like other 15-year-olds. She sees things others can’t see. She hears things others can’t hear. She pierces the veil that separates the living from the dead.

When the Great Storm of 1893 rips her from her humble home on the banks of the Mississippi, it thrusts her into the dazzling world of New Orleans’ Creoles of Color High Society. It’s a world of debutantes, balls, and handsome young men in uniforms.

Superstition, mystery, magic, and conjure make the very fabric of daily life. It counts both holy men of God and practitioners of the Dark Arts among its most honored denizens.

It’s here Gabbie learns her supernatural powers are part of something greater. But, she wants nothing to do with it.

Will that change when a malevolent ghost threatens the lives of those she loves or will it take an ill-fated romance? What will she learn on her journey of self-discovery? Will she find the courage to finally become the person she was born to be?

Seeing that Taj and Ayseana had been raised close together as sisters, things amongst the two of them rapidly changed once Amina was introduced. Not only had Ayseana been the jealous type when growing up, but she’d also been dominant and demanding. With Dena and Dawn later joining the friendship, Dena had always seemed to be the one to take charge and keep the five women’s friendship glued. However, with Dena keeping up with so much throughout her personal life, it would only be a matter of time before their bonded friendship no longer stuck together tight like glue.

Get to know Taj, Dena, Amina, Ayseana, and Dawn. Five girls that’s grown together to become very different women. With different opinions and personal feelings towards their friendship, trust, loyalty, and bond.

Two million students drop out of college in the united States every year. They leave without degrees, without skills, usually without jobs, deeply in debt, and often facing poverty. Don’t let this happen to your kids. There are millions of ways to succeed without college. This book will show you and them how.

STATE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES BELIEVE THAT BLACK LIVES DON’T MATTER—which is why they admit 1 1/2 million Black youngsters a year who they know will drop out and forfeit millions of dollars in student loans. The funds they lose go right into the pockets of millionaire athletic coaches and administrators. As victims of The Billion Dollar College Admissions Scam, those kids leave college with no skills, education, or jobs—and deep in debt for years, repaying student loans they never used.

Besides its warning, My “Scam” book also point ways to tens of thousands of exciting jobs that require no costly college degrees and pay more than many jobs that do. I’m attaching the first two chapters (12 pp.) of my 142-page book to this email and hope you’ll let me know your reaction.

The World History of the Black Race tells the story of the Black African or Negro Race and its expansion from Africa into Eurasia, the Americas and the Pacific Islands. In this book, we explain the spread of Black Civilizations across the earth over the past 100,000 years. Special attention in this history of the Blacks, is given to the past 5000 years.

Insightful book detailing the past of the author’s journey from homelessness to obtaining his Ph.D. The content in this book will impact the readers to use their past to become an effective leader.

Tori and Jake Madison once had a loving, satisfying marriage. But Jake’s long hours Sheila spent on growing his business with his business partner and Tori’s insecurities have taken a toll on their relationship. His one night stand with Sheila threatens to destroy their marriage. In the wake of tragedy, Jake leaves, but he can’t escape his powerful feelings for Tori, and he knows the only to reclaim what they have lost is to come home.In spite of Jakes’s betrayal, Tori cares deeply for her husband. If they are to reconcile though, changes must be made. Complicating their reunion is Sheila Moore who is determined to hook him for good. However, she underestimates the power of a wife in love—one who has no intention of giving up without a fight.

Essence best-selling author Jacquelin Thomas returns with a poignant, passionate, and inspirational novel about one woman’s journey to overcome the mistakes of her past and face the truths of an inescapable future. A year ago, successful career woman Sheila Moore left her home on the South Carolina coast to escape the pain of loving a man who would never love her back-her married business partner, Jake. Now Sheila has returned to Charleston and the past, into the guarded lives of Jake and his suspicious wife, Tori.But out of Sheila’s fears and regrets comes unexpected sanctuary in the unconditional love of a handsome writer. All she has to do is accept it. Can she trust him?

We have all read the headlines featuring a fortunate college-bound student who received $100,000 or more in scholarship awards. Assuming that the scholarships were renewable annually, this amount could easily pay for four years of college at any American college or university. However, these success stories are the exception, not the rule. They are aberrations among the pool of millions of aspiring college students who submit scholarship applications to the hundreds of companies, foundations, and non-profit groups that offer them. The reality is a much different, and sobering, picture. According to the College Board, the average cumulative student debt balance in 2017 was $26,900 for graduates of public four-year schools and $32,600 for graduates of private nonprofit four-year schools. 101 Scholarship Applications: What It Takes to Obtain a Debt-Free College Education was written specifically to address the issue of college loan debt, and help students and their parents identify scholarship opportunities, as well as develop strategies for submitting applications and winning awards. This book’s author, Gwen Richardson, is a parent who spent several years carefully researching scholarship sources for her daughter, who attended an out-of-state college at the cost of $30,000 per year. Her daughter graduated in May 2018 with all costs financed entirely with scholarships and grants. The highlight of this book is a comprehensive listing of more than 300 scholarship sources, including award amounts, eligibility requirements, and direct website links. All sources have been vetted and researched for accuracy

We all tend to pose these questions to ourselves from time to time; "Who am I"? "What is my purpose"? "Why am I here"? While we may not readily have definite answers, the ability to start and figure it out begins with knowing who we are made in the image of. Just like a relative can gaze at you and say "You look just like your father/mother" there are traits and abilities in you that are also in Jesus Christ granted to you by God. He said, "Let us make man in our image and our likeness". (Genesis 1:26) Impeccable by definition is the appearance, behavior, and performance of something, and because God is impeccable (it does not mean you are perfect) but that He made you impeccable too. You have been endowed with the ability to appear, behave and perform in such a way that only you can. No one else is made like you, even though we are all fashioned in the same image and likeness.

The way you speak to yourself matters! The way you envision yourself matters! To become authentic matters! To evolve matters!Your mind is the software, your brain is the hardware. The mind can be reprogrammed, renewed, transformed, and reborn. The battle of the mind begins and ends with you. A negative mind will not give you a positive life. You are the gateway for what you manifest in your life.Only you have the power to take back your life and evolve to love. If you want different results, you have to do things differently. There will never be a right time. Your time is now!

These stories explore the edge of the wilderness that is human nature from an African-American perspective. They delve into our passions, taboos, and melodies of madness. They also illustrate a lust for life, living, and love with vivid and unforgettable characters. Your compass, your GPS, the stars, and the sun will not guide you through this trackless terrain. Even prayer will not save us from ourselves-adventure on at your own risk.

American Phoenix, the second collection of poetry by award-winning author Zetta Elliott, extends the themes of resilience and resistance found in Say Her Name. Responding to the devastation of both the pandemic and police brutality, Elliott offers forty new poems that reflect upon the cycle of life, the struggle for liberation, and the artist’s role in ensuring our survival.

I figured that being a mother would be filled with eagerness, excitement and joy. Never did I imagine that my journey to motherhood would be paved with anger, comparison, doubt and even feelings of depression. I now realize it all made me the woman, the mother I am today.

Bump and Run tells the story of Ray Crockett, an undersized football player with no shot at success, who used a unique defensive technique to advance himself to high school, college and into NFL stardom. After a successful 14-year career and back-to-back Super Bowl Championships with the Denver Broncos, Ray’s transition from shut-down cornerback to stay-at-home dad wasn’t as smooth as he had hoped. Partying with drugs, alcohol, and women began to overtake his life. Struggling with concussion syndrome symptoms, poor mental health and a number of bad decisions sent him on a downward spiral that costs millions.

It was his spiritual beliefs and the same “unique technique” that helped him defeat his demons and breakthrough all the pain and disappointment to once again become a Champion in Life! Ray Crockett makes no excuses while taking full responsibility for his actions. This story of full transparency and openness will help others to face similar demons, get up close and personal with their challenges, then Bump and Run their way back to success!

In the land of Ferrin, Faylinn, a half-elf/half-orc woman, lives with her mother and works the life of a farmer enduring bigotry and cruelty.Until one fateful day, she is accidentally saved by a human ranger named Brian in the woods near her home.The problem is Brian is not a real ranger. He is a live-action role player that was somehow transported to her world.Can the two solve the mystery of how Brian ended up in Ferrin while avoiding the land’s perils and, most importantly, …killing each other?From the mind of Kipjo K. Ewers comes a comical fantasy tale for the ages. Find out what happens when fantasy meets roleplay in the Elf and the LARP.

In the year 2050, Superia, a superhero MMO online virtual player, decides it is time to quit and leave the game forever.In the middle of Superia’s last few hours of final gameplay, "she" falls asleep, and later awakens in what appears to be the game’s new and improved upgraded platform.However, this new world seems to be disturbingly real and on a different timeline. Also, although this new world is still filled with superhumans, there is one major change…in this "game," there is no such thing as superheroes. What is a player trapped in the body of a superhero avatar to do?From the mind of Kipjo K. Ewers, the author of "The First" series, comes to a new adventure that is not all fun and games.Get ready for "Help! I’m a Superhero!"

The Fire in the Flint is a landmark novel by Walter White. The story of Kenneth Harper, a young idealistic black physician returning home from after years away hoping that the days for oppression for blacks in the South are waning.In his hometown of Central City in South Georgia he finds all too soon that the ugliness of intolerance continues to fester and grow in his hometown and the progress he was hoping for is not coming easy to the South. Even while he tries to establish himself and be “a good Negroe,” he becomes all too aware of the ongoing enslavement of the black community. Helping local sharecroppers organize a cooperative society quickly puts him in the cross-hairs of the local Ku Klux Klan organization. Amid the story’s tragedy and violence, White manages to reflect on the complex nuances of humanity within white and black communities in conflict.

I was a 7-year-old Chicago kid when Hip Hop was born in the Bronx, NY projects. It had been around for some years getting its legs under it before I got a taste of it around junior high school…being from Chicago, my foundation is house music, but when I heard the Ultramagnetic MCs, I was sold…Hip Hop is a part of my being, I was raised on it, and it has been the soundtrack for some of the best moments/years of my life; ’til death do us part.

Hip Hop married lyricism, djing, graffiti art, breakdancing, and later, Kowwledge of Self. .every component equally as essential to the vibe. .over the years, as with other music forms created by African people, we’ve witnessed Hip Hop being compromised, coopted, and commercialized. .it has been whittled down gradually to something that is unrecognizable to its beginnings.

The profit motive has crept in along with the overarching agendas that anchor Black people to that bottom rung on that capitalist/classist ladder. Rich or poor, we are all being targeted with WAR.

One of our great ancestors, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, put it best, “music is the weapon” Hip Hop was OUR weapon.

Today though, Hip Hop is no longer a tool our creative linguists use to teach and reach us. The consciousness has been evaporated and the messages have drastically changed. From Black culture, Hip Hop is somewhat estranged.

I still LOVE her,
WE still LOVE her.
WE still want Hip Hop to return to us WHOLE.
food for US.
with a SOUL.

Published amid controversy in 1926, Flight focuses on the dilemma of Mimi Daquin, a light-complexioned African American woman who "passes", for a time, as white. The complexities and state of race relations in the early 1900s unfortunately mirror much of which is taking place in our current society. From the Atlanta riot of 1906 to her shameful expulsion from black bourgeois society because of an out-of-wedlock pregnancy, to her working-class status in Philadelphia and Harlem, Mimi eventually decides to escape her miseries by passing for white in New York City. "Often mentioned as a major text in the literature of passing and listed as a groundbreaking novel of the Harlem Renaissance, Walter White’s Flight may be one of the least read ’important’ books telling the story of black migration, urbanization, and segregation. This compelling narrative with the unforgettable, feisty Mimi at its center is ’must’ reading. Bold and nuanced, Flight illuminates the inner workings of racism, classism, and sexism by following Mimi’s search for a space in which to be black and female in a modern world."-Thadious M. Davis, author of Nella Larsen, Novelist of the Harlem Renaissance"Flight belongs to an extinct but historically crucial genre of African-American fiction: the passing novel. Here, Walter White, himself light enough to pass, explores the many dimensions of the path not taken. Along the way, he reflects on the American propensity for personal reinvention and the arbitrariness of racial designation." —Nell Irvin Painter, Princeton University

Book 1 in the "Let’s Stay Together Series (Forever)" marks Bestselling Author, Vanessa Miller’s 50th Christian fiction title.

Jewel Dawson is a headstrong, outspoken real estate agent who is deeply in love with her fiancé, Jackson Lewis, a mega-millionaire sports agent. However, when he presents her with a prenuptial agreement, she calls off their wedding. For Jewel, a prenup signifies doubt in the durability of their love, and she could never marry a man who doesn’t believe in the concept of ’forever.’

Having been raised to revere the sanctity of marriage, Jewel comes from a lineage of lasting love. Her great grandparents celebrated their platinum wedding anniversary, her grandparents their emerald, and her parents are nearing their coral anniversary. In contrast, Jackson has been surrounded by failed marriages—his father is on his fourth wife, and divorce seems to be a recurring theme among his acquaintances.

While Jackson loves Jewel, he is uncertain if their love can withstand the test of time. Jewel, having been previously heartbroken by a man with similar doubts, refuses to invest her trust in Jackson unless he can commit to forever. As they navigate these challenging emotional terrains, they learn that enduring love isn’t easily achieved. But with God on their side, they realize that anything is possible.

Have Black lives ever mattered? They always have to the African/Black people living them. In bondage. In struggle. In freedom. Feel their joy, their commitment to family. Feel their love, their pain. Feel their struggle and triumph. Experience their secret lives of resistance, espionage and escape.

Based on documented history and inspired by the life of the author’s once-enslaved great-grandmother Mariah, this book will enthrall you and plunge you into an avalanche of emotions.

Clandestine - The Times and Secret Life of Mariah Otey Reddick places the reader’s experience in a broader context - that of the recent extraordinary world-wide movement. That movement has awakened in many a vision of a world of equal justice for all - no matter our skin color or economic status.

Grasp another ray of hope in these times of uncertainty via little-known historical gems throughout Clandestine - The Times and Secret Life of Mariah Otey Reddick. It is a unique, timely, and illustrated historical novel.

A saga of resistance and resilience of intrigue and adventure centered around a love story.

In 1848, Mariah, an enslaved ten-year-old Black girl, is ripped from her mother’s embrace as her sister screams in horror. Imagine yourself or your ten-year-old daughter, cousin or niece being given away as a wedding gift. That’s Mariah’s fate. She is taken from Louisiana to Tennessee, never to see her family again.

Clasping the amulet her mother fashioned and gave to her for protection and solace, she holds onto it and the African traditions passed down to her, including her secret African name which means "blessing."

Mariah, haunted by a childhood betrayal of another enslaved girl, grows into a resister of bondage and helps others escape slavery. Years later - while working (confirmed fact) in the household of the Confederacy’s President, Jefferson Davis - she becomes a spy for the Union.

In the rebel army hospital in 1863 in Montgomery, Alabama, a wounded Confederate officer catches Mariah Clandestinely passing military information to Union sympathizers. in the rebel army hospital in 1863 in Montgomery, Alabama. Mariah faces either the gallows or a whipping post, but defies the Major when he detains and interrogates her. Stirred by the courage of her Ancestors, Mariah grows up to be a mother (including four sets of twins) and a spy for the Union during the US Civil War. Become enveloped in the hopes and tragedies of her enslaved family and enter Mariah’s complex world, where love and devotion coexist with terror and cruelty.

Her bravery and tenacity are sparked by the stories of her freedom-fighting Ancestors, including her grandfather who was a sharpshooter at African Fort with the Seminoles in Florida.

After the U.S. Civil War, Mariah and Bolen, her true love, struggle against KKK violence, while coping with bitter political conflicts within the family.

Together they must thwart a traitorous Colored blackmailer. And they must abort the deadly plans of a crippled and deranged ex-Confederate and his son, a fanatical deserter seeking redemption, both of whom are sworn to revenge. Mariah tempts fate more than once.

Her world is one filled with danger, spirituality, vengeance, joy, grief, loyalty, devotion, resistance and resilience.

Clandestine, inspired by true events, is the story of Mariah’s and her family’s struggle for dignity and freedom as told by her great-grandson Damani Keene and his wife, Ife.

A Resistance Faction of Antiheroes Rescue Fascist America

The year is 2024, Chicago.

Most of the world has survived the coronavirus (COVID-19); however, the United States is recovering from a war with China on U.S. soil dubbed the Twitter War because it started over…a Tweet.

Russia is now a new ally and has a huge presence and political influence in the U.S.

A resistance faction of antiheroes formed during this time known as "We The People," who plan to overthrow the fascist regime and install new power restoring democracy in America before another election is stolen.

AALBC.com Note: Despite the popularity of this title on our website, the Willie Lynch Letter is a hoax.

*Includes pictures

In the wake of the Civil War, African Americans attained freedom from chattel slavery, but continued to suffer discrimination both legal in the form of Jim Crow laws and de facto in the continued perception among the vast majority of white Americans that African Americans were at the very least inferior and at the most a constant dangerous presence in their communities who must be carefully controlled. In this way, Tulsa was no different than most cities in the region in the 1920s.

Overall, Tulsa in 1921 was considered a modern, vibrant city. What had fueled this remarkable growth was oil, specifically the discovery of the Glenn Pool oil field in 1905. Within five years, Tulsa had grown from a rural crossroads town in the former Indian Territory into a boomtown with more than 10,000 citizens, and as word spread of the fortunes that could be made in Tulsa, people of all races poured into the city. By 1920, the greater Tulsa area boasted a population of over 100,000.

In turn, Tulsa’s residential neighborhoods were some of the most modern and stylish in the country, and the Tulsa Chamber of Commerce produced postcards and literature boasting of the virtues of life in their modern oil city.

The Greenwood district, a 36 square block section of northern Tulsa, was considered the wealthiest African American neighborhood in the country, called the "Black Wall Street" because of the large number of affluent and professional residents. In the 2001 final report of the Oklahoma Commission to Study the Tulsa Race Riot of 1921, historians John Hope Franklin and Scott Ellsworth described the Greenwood area that would be all but destroyed in one of America’s most notorious riots.

The death knell for Black Wall Street began on Memorial Day, May 31, 1921. Around or after 4:00 p.m. that day, a clerk at Renberg’s clothing store on the first floor of the Drexel Building in Tulsa heard a woman scream. Turning in the direction of the scream, he saw a young black man running from the building. Going to the elevator, the clerk found the white elevator operator, 17-year-old Sarah Page, crying and distraught. The clerk concluded that she had been assaulted by the black man he saw running a few moments earlier and called the police.

Those facts are just about the only things people agree on when it comes to the riot in Tulsa in 1921. By the time the unrest ended, an unknown number of Tulsa’s black citizens were dead, over 800 people were injured, and what had been the wealthiest black community in the United States had been laid to waste.

In the days after the riot, a group formed to work on rebuilding the Greenwood neighborhood, which had been all but destroyed. The former mayor of Tulsa, Judge J. Martin, declared, "Tulsa can only redeem herself from the country-wide shame and humiliation into which she is today plunged by complete restitution and rehabilitation of the destroyed black belt. The rest of the United States must know that the real citizenship of Tulsa weeps at this unspeakable crime and will make good the damage, so far as it can be done, to the last penny."

However, financial assistance would be slow in coming, a jury would find that black mobs were responsible for the damage, and not a single person was ever convicted as a result of the riot. Indeed, given that racist violence directed at blacks was the norm in the Jim Crow South, and accusations of black teens or adults violating young white girls were often accepted without evidence, people barely batted an eye at the damage wrought by the riot. It would not be until recently that a true accounting of the riot and its damage have been conducted, and as the 100th anniversary of the massacre approaches in 2021, the city of Tulsa is still working to complete the historical record.

With LFC bringing the Premiership cup home to liverpool after 30 years. Jacopo an 11 year old mixed heritage boy from Liverpool, draws further inspiration for his dream of getting and staying in the Premier league himself. Though he has had, an amazing start. He now has to deal with world class challenges to his sport, his focus and his game that he never saw coming. A Pandemic, and civil unrest.

Written in his own sassy parlance, Jacopo Jacopo is a funny, engaging and endearing read for children 9+ and their parents.

Reviews of Book 1 Jacopo Jacopo Football Star:
“The dialogue is full of sparkle; I can easily imaging myself in the car on a four-song journey back from training, or around the kitchen table as Ifeoma raises her eyebrow warningly at Jacopo - a relaxing, encouraging, engaging read. Four stars&rquo;

The historical and archaeological evidence indicates that like Africa, Europe was the land of the Blacks. In this book, we review the history of Blacks or Negroes in ancient and modern Europe. It will illustrate that 44,000 years ago Blacks crossed into Iberia, and eventually settled all of Europe. After studying the myths, archaeological and historical evidence you will discover that Europe was not the homeland of the White race.

It would appear from the evidence that the ancient Greeks were Blacks. Moreover, it is clear that these blacks taught the Europeans civilization, and government and that these symbols of government and civilization cannot be claimed solely as the property of Caucasians.

Even during the dark days of slavery, our courageous Black ancestors used comedy to lift their spirits, often making fun of the white people subjugating them. Even today, brave Black men and women risking their lives in the streets fighting white supremacy need a little humor to lift their spirits. This book is for you!

MAD COMEDY has collected hundreds of hilarious jokes by top Black comics about the antics of our favorite clowns: white people!

Only white people think bike riding is a sport. I know a crackhead who could win the Tour de France on a stolen Barbie bike.

What do you call a black man selling drugs? A pharmacist, you racist.

How many white people does it take to replace a light bulb? One to hold the bulb, and the rest to screw the whole world.

Batman is the story of a rich white dude who beats people up and the cops just let him do it. Think about it: Batman’s superpower is white privilege.

A portion of the proceeds of this book will be donated to benefit Black causes.

Sensual Intriguing. Uplifting. The Gathering of Gemstones: A Poetry Collection, by Judy C. Andrews is an inspiring book of delicious words. Civil Rights Activist, Mary Jane McLeod Bethune explained how important it is to “invest in the human soul,” because she felt that everyone is “a diamond in the rough.”

The book, published at the height of the 2020 global pandemic, explores the possibility of hope in an ever-changing world. The author shares personal reflections on conditions that affect the human experience and nature, with emphasis on her African American culture. The book is a riveting and spiritual collection, which covers a range of topics using the motif, light. Subjects in this collection include love, romance, relationships, and social issues.

Traditional poetic genres such as sonnets, cinquains, free verse, and haiku are among Ms. Andrews’ favorite forms of poetic expression, as well as non-traditional genres in the upbeat style of spoken-word poetry. This artistic work of literature invigorates, entertains, and inspires readers from all walks of life who enjoy creativity, artsy work, sexy language, and rich words of power.

Population Geneticists claim that Africans carry European genes because of a back migration from Eurasia to Africa, and Africans and Europeans lived in isolation for 40,000 years and, only came in contact with one another as a result of the Atlantic Slave Trade. In this book we discuss this theory. The evidence reveals that there was never a back migration from Eurasia to Africa. The migration pattern appears to be Africans moving into Eurasia during the past 40,000 years of building civilizations. And, that the agro-pastoral revolution in Europe was the result of Kushite people who early settled the Levant and Anatolia-not Indo-Europeans. As a result, there is no such thing as biological races carrying specific genes unique to their race; because the mtDNA L (M,N) haplogroups, and Y-Chromosomes E,R and etc., originated in Africa-not Eurasia.

The Chocolate Romance Series!THE NECESSARY HUNGER!A foreign phrase to sedate, English professor, Olivia Anderson, unless one was referring to food and such. However, Olivia learns the erotic meaning when she is enticed to take a walk on the wild side and attends an all male revue with a distinct urban edge.
There, hidden desires are brought forth especially by one dancer known only as Flava. Returning from her adventure only slightly singed, Professor Anderson gets the shock of her life the first day of the semester when none other than Flava is sitting front and center in her classroom.
From that point on, Olivia’s world becomes a roller coaster ride of self-discovery where she will either face her deepest fears and possibly discover the love of her life or endure great anguish!The Chocolate Romance Series-Book 2!Love Comes in Many Packages!Andrea Flaven only dates black men. Imagine her surprise when she wakes up and realizes she was intimate with a white man! To make matters worse she can’t remember the details of the passionate night.
Andrea’s world is thrown off-kilter!
Unintentionally, the gorgeous white man in question, Marceau LeBlanc, keeps her in a state of flummox. Will Andrea release her pre-conceived notions and give love a try, or will she stay within her comfort zone and reduce her interaction with Marceau to an interesting anecdote!

Nadine, Hello & Goodbye is a masterpiece! When Kara Pyles a happily married beautician, wins the heart of her school’s Varsity quarterback, it appeared she had it all! She is rich but there is one problem. Kara has great difficulty having a child. When Nadine is born, there is a disconnect that last mostly all Nadine’s life until, the answer to Kara’s problem is revealed. Regardless of whether Kara was there for her child, Nadine maintains infinite love for Kara. When her mother is shot in the back, it’s Nadine who goes after the killer? Will Nadine’s love for Kara bring her closer to her mother? Or will it be too late?

The Chocolate Romance Series-Book 2!Love Comes in Many Packages!Andrea Flaven only dates black men.
Imagine her surprise when she wakes up and realizes she was intimate with a white man!
To make matters worse she can’t remember the details of the passionate night.
Andrea’s world is thrown off-kilter!
Unintentionally, the gorgeous white man in question, Marceau LeBlanc, keeps her in a state of flummox. Will Andrea release her pre-conceived notions and give love a try, or will she stay within her comfort zone and reduce her interaction with Marceau to an interesting anecdote!

The I AM… books deal with the very rich culture, history, and ancestry of revolutionary African ancestry and contemporaries who dedicated or are dedicating their lives towards progress for African people through the use of their voices, platforms, talent, political activity, or commitment to revolutionary African struggles.

Some of the people discussed in this book, written in poetic form, are Africans who represent positive images that African children should see in order to know who and what they can be. Beautiful pictures accompany each person discussed, and there are activities that coincide with each book to help boost vocabulary and understanding of the content. These are must reads for African youth, ages 8-13. Any African child who does not know who he /she is, or where he/she comes from is subject to becoming whatever the dominant society decides he/she is. These cultural works seek to address this.

The ’I AM…’ books were written to instill a strong sense of pride and self-esteem in Black children through introducing them to very potent Black revolutionary ancestry and some contemporaries who are proving to be real role models. The books target youth, ages 8-13, and are written in poetic form in order for the information to flow, reminiscent of the culture of Hip Hop many of us embrace along with our young. The illustrations for each luminary mentioned provide further connectivity to the powerful people described. Each book serves as an introduction to some very important Black family members, along with some relevant vocabulary terms. For each book, there is a fun crossword puzzle that allows the reader to test what he/she has learned. Black children need to know who they are and where they came from in order to blossom into all that they are capable of being.

UNAUTHORIZED, Debi Thomas What Really Happened, is an amazing tale of behind the scenes interviews that were conducted by journalist, writer, & award-winning writer, Carol Denise Mitchell. During two-years of phone interviews with Debi Thomas and Debi’s fiancé Jamie Looney, Mitchell got to know the superstar well enough to uncover secrets that Debi Thomas had yet to divulge to the general public. Mitchell uncovers the truth about Debi’s big losses in the 1988 Olympics up to how her medical career ended up failing. The author is stunned to learn that Debi Thomas felt she was not meant to win the gold in the 1988 Olympics. Moreover, Mitchell uncovers extensive research on why Debi, who openly dared to "Question Authority" seemingly at her peril, incurred many of her losses and how, and the author is unwilling to hold anything back. Readers will be appalled at how extensively Debi Thomas suffered Domestic Violence; and, how she was willing to let it all out to the author. Mitchell introduces surprising information about the skating star, while she ensures that it is Debi telling her own story! This earthshattering book will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Readers will be happy to hear Debi telling her own story throughout this fantastic writing effort.Carol Denise Mitchell is sensitive and authentic on the topic of what happened to her friend, Olympic champion, Debra Janine Thomas. Her goal is for readers to walk away from the book feeling that it was Debi telling her own story. In a shocking scene when Debi’s fiancé Jamie Looney puts a gun to Debi’s head, Mitchell is mindful of Debi’s potential state-of-mind in not being able to tell her own story. Mitchell wants the name, Debra Janine Thomas to be inducted into the archives of great fame. Debi Thomas should be proud of this great writing effort. The book will do the superstar, no harm!

Liverpool is an amazing diversely populated city. There seems to be football sewn in the fibre of the city. Meet Jacopo he is a mixed heritage, 10 year old boy and has a lot to tell you about that summer when his dream to play football started to seem like it could become a reality. Jacopo is amazing, talented and funny, he thinks he has what it takes to be a footballer. Does he? Is there more to it than the kits, kecks and a kick about. What else does the journey involve? This is an endearing story about, a dream, a fragile family, and friendships along the way of getting your game on. This is his hard work, his story. Told in his words.

From award-winning suspense author Brandon Massey comes a thrilling new tale of buried secrets and stunning revelations …
LOST

Twenty-five years ago, a jealous ex-boyfriend murdered Mallory Steele’s mother. With no close family to take in Mallory and her older sister, the girls became wards of the state—and were soon ripped apart, sent to live with different foster families.

THEN FOUND

Taken in by loving parents, Mallory went on to a successful career as an investigative reporter at an Atlanta newspaper. She hasn’t been able to find her sister despite her best efforts—until she discovers a promising connection on a genealogical website. Hoping for a reunion, Mallory sets off for the small town in rural Georgia where she believes her sister lives.

BUT NOTHING WILL EVER BE THE SAME

There, at Sanctuary, an old antebellum mansion deep in the murky backwoods, Mallory discovers her sister’s new family: a reclusive clan led by a secretive man known only as "Father." Skeptical of Father’s revelation about her sister, Mallory plunges into the most important investigation of her life … but to unravel the mystery of her sister’s fate and the terrible secrets lurking in Sanctuary, Mallory must decide: is finding the truth always worth the price?

CJ’s back for the win but there’s one thing standing in his way, his class project. In order to play in the next Big Game, CJ must find a way to get a passing grade on his science project but can he do it? Will he be able to get a good grade to play in the next big game? Find out in CJ’s next adventure.

Smiddy’s Dry Cleaners is a staple in the Jackson, MS community. Although, it wouldn’t have survived without the hard work and dedication of Ruth Ann Sumner and San Winters. The ladies have been friends and co-workers for years. Ruth Ann can’t find love and yearns for the day her heart will become whole again. San’s toxic relationship hinders her from becoming a successful hair stylist. From crazy customers to broken down machines, the ladies have seen it all. But life as they know it will change once a simple act of kindness turns their whole world upside down. In this hilarious and thought provoking drama, the ladies will learn the true definition of live, laugh and love.

This is your chance to enjoy one of the most creative, fictional enterprises this century. The EMPATH trilogy is a thrilling, action-packed adventure, with a diverse and growing fan base.

EMPATH III Spygate: A new generation works together to protect empaths worldwide from an international alliance. The Alliance tries to contain the empaths’ powers, tracking them down one by one to stop them from growing stronger. Dr. Channels joins forces with Corcom’s evil CEO, Bryne Brinner, for access to the most secure government agencies in the world. Their mission is to protect the empaths by replacing government intelligence with fake data. Highly trained empathic agents travel through the mind portal to alter reality in a beautiful, moving, and empowering novel, which helps readers to reflect on the growing need for empathy in public discourse and personal interactions.

Kathi Norris, having kissed one frog too many, is content with her single status. Her well-ordered life, however, faces upheaval with the arrival of Eric Dawson. Eric, an attorney by day and a soulful musician by night, ignites a passion in Kathi unlike any she has known. As she grows closer to him, she begins to see him as her prince charming, but only if he can overcome his troubled past.

Eric Dawson’s heart has been scarred by tragedy and betrayal, leading him to steer clear of relationships. However, Kathi’s tenderness and the allure of her sultry kisses challenge his resolve. Finding her irresistibly hard to resist, Eric realizes he must confront his deepest wounds to earn Kathi’s trust. To claim the love that whispers of forever, he’ll need to navigate his past and embrace the possibility of a future together.

They first kissed over fifteen years ago, Gina thought it would be the start of a me-for-you-and-you-for-me kind of relationship, but David didn’t remember her or the kiss the very next day. Now they are drawn back together to save each others’ careers. David may not remember the first kiss, but the next one will be like fireworks on New Year’s Eve. But it’s not only the dawning of a new year these two will celebrate, but a new love, one that they must determine if they can trust with its flaws and all.

You will love this heartwarming story of Gina Melson, the enchanting, vibrant beauty who experiences some of the hard knocks of life, but yet and still understands that with God on her side, she will win. And David Pittman, the football superstar turned master chef, with secrets that could derail all that he has built if he doesn’t allow God to turn his midnight into day.

David needs someone like Gina in his corner, he can’t let her get away, but she’s not interested unless he can prove that he’s no longer the love ’em and forget ’em playboy she once knew.

This book is a great read for beginning and established art collectors.

Aunique, multi-layered debut memoir regarding the tremendous impact of a grandmother’s love and how art can educate a young child about one’s own history and culture.

The book is an engaging story of how a 5-year old child, born into the South’s suffocating racial segregation of the 1950’s is introduced to the deep beauty and cultural richness of African American art. Inspired by the unconditional love of a “new” Grandmother and the stunning manner that she filled the interior of her Augusta, GA home with art, captivated too, by paintings and sculptures displayed throughout his segregated South Carolina elementary school, Patrick developed an early fascination and lasting interest in black & white photographs that captured family celebrations, paintings of black women, children at play and religious rituals. At this early age Patrick also enjoyed spending time alone with his Grandma during which she’d sing her favorite spirituals and share unforgettable and riveting stories about her childhood on a sharecropping farm in Barnwell S.C. Patrick’s Grandma also shared stories about the traumatic fear, brutality and inhumanity of daily life in the Jim Crow South. Within days of marrying his college sweetheart, Patrick and his new bride set out on a 46-year cultural journey acquiring museum quality artwork and befriending some of our country’s most well-known and admired African American artists. The book’s Introduction is written by Kymberly N. Pinder, Ph.D, Provost at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

Artwork from Patrick and Judy’s collection has been exhibited in museums, university galleries and art centers throughout the United States including: the Art Institute of Chicago, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Whitney Museum of American Art, Dallas Museum of Art, Black Academy of Arts & Letters, American Jazz Museum, University of Cincinnati DAAP Galleries, Winston-Salem State University Diggs Gallery, Tampa Museum of Art, Charlotte Country Day School, Providence Day School, Belk Stores Corporate Gallery and the National Gallery of Art.

Dregs is a seven year old little boy trying to adjust to his new school. Things take a turn for the worse when he discovers that his new school has a bully by the name of Black Eye. In this coming of age book, Dregs has to decide whether or not he will stand up to a bully.

Smooth operator and security CEO David Price sets out to protect the sexy, smart, and saucy Sugar Owens from her husband, who happens to be a powerful religious leader. But Sugar may not be as sweet and innocent as she appears. And when the preacher turns up dead, Price becomes the prime suspect.

An Urban RomanceBased On A True StoryWhen O’shay London met Sanaa Holland, it was an instant attraction. They dated for a while and found themselves in love with each other. As the couple grapples with the circumstances that change their lives forever, the question of what truly bonded them arises. IS IT LOVE OR OBSESSION? In Book Two…After Sanaa was shot and left for dead, O’shay is frantic and lost while Sanaa is in a coma. Will Sanaa recover or who will be found guilty of murder?

Cynthia Highcloud is a Texas-based investigative reporter who’s struggling to come to terms with her new reality. A month after her interview with the five women charging Pastor Abraham McCormick with rape, her car is run off the road, leaving her face so badly disfigured that she’s forced to undergo several excruciating reconstructive surgeries. Two years after the incident, Cynthia finds herself embracing her altered appearance and taking on a new identity-Phoenix DeAngelo. Armed with the strength of her rebirth, Phoenix is determined to prove that Pastor McCormick attempted to kill her in spite of there being no evidence. When she discovers that he’s left Texas to launch a ministry in North Carolina, she immediately follows him there and secures a job in his church’s finance department under the guise of her modified look. Phoenix’s bold move proves to be challenging as she finds herself surrounded by false promises, painful deceptions, and hidden agendas. Still, the untrusting skeptic, will she ever let her guard down far enough to recognize the true Shepherd of the Lord? Or will Phoenix forever believe that ministers are mere predators to their unsuspecting congregations?

The engagement dinner for Rick Westbrook and Danielle Queen with their group of tight-knit friends was supposed to be a joyful celebration of their pending nuptials. Instead, it ended in disaster. Six years later, Rick is reunited with his college friends under grim circumstances. Deja Queen finds herself in an unusual and complex love triangle with Kurt and Jason. In this heart-wrenching and hilarious, a tale of love and friendship will they all be able to adjust to their current situations?

Africa has become recognized as the continent where man and language originated. In this book we explain that Africans have had writing for over 5000.It explains how writing originated in Africa and expanded from Africa to Eurasia through the spread of the ancient Kushites.

May God Help Us Find Our Way is a series of poems made with a special kind of curiosity and love.

THE LONG AWAITED SEQUEL TO HOUSE GUEST!LIGHTNING DOESN’T STRIKE TWICE, AND LOST LOVE CAN’T BE RECAPTURED…Defense attorney, Samantha Martinson, firmly believes this, and as an intelligent woman, she refuses to make the same mistake twice. Also, Sam knows that oil and water don’t mix; neither do defense attorneys and cops. She learned that lesson the hard way when she and her ex-husband, Nathaniel Martinson, tried it and ended up at each other’s throats
So, when Nate winds up being a witness in one of her trials, she can’t wait for the perfect cop to hurry up and take the stand, so they can go back to ignoring each other in the big, little city of Seattle.
However, the fates conspire against Samantha when she agrees to represent the most hated man in Washington State. Suddenly, she’s being followed, receiving threats, and being run off the road. She’s in danger and irritated as hell that she can’t get rid of Nate.
Nate will protect Sam at all cost. But who will protect him from his ex-wife? The woman is hardheaded, fiercely independent, and she hates him. Despite all that, he can’t help but realize that she’s even more beautiful than she was when he married her! He’ll be damned if anyone harms her, but almost as bad, he can’t stand the thought of another man claiming her?
Sparks fly as Sam and Nate navigate danger and the storm that stirs up every time the two are within ten yards of each other. If they survive the threat, will their love be revived or spiral out of control like a flash flood?

"Godling" is what the elders called him, as an insult and as a reminder that they did not truly believe that he belonged among them. He represented something new and something for the fearless to fear. There were other names besides godling that he had been branded with against his will. In hushed voices, fearful false gods referred to him as The Bastard King, The Sword of the Faithless, The Heathen’s Scythe, and The Savage Reaper but his favorite was still plain "Seven" because it was the number of so-called immortals he had killed to become immortal himself.

Neven had a perfect life before he met the immortal Lanrete. Now, he’s fighting to save the galaxy from annihilation by extra-dimensional beings. Forced to become a Secnic, Neven learns to kill and discovers that he’s remarkably good at it. But will it be enough to stay alive?Follow award-winning author Emmanuel M. Arriaga as he gives readers an adventure of epic proportions in his sci-fi space opera Foundra!

Welcome to Richmond, where the trust is slim and the hate and envy is thick and constant. Richmond, California, better known as Gotham City throughout the Bay Area. Home of the distant and distracted, territory of the jealous, envious, and greedy. What’s considered normal to someone living in an abnormal city. With every Field General itching for a chance to be first in command. Who could you turn to and who could you trust, when everyone that you live amongst was neither a true friend or fan. With gossip going back and forth with various twist and tangles, anything could happen when you communicated with someone unfaithful.

Ready for a change in black economics? Join the Bitcoin revolution. Bitcoin and Black America is a dynamic new book that explores the synergy between black economics, Bitcoin and blockchain technology. The global financial system is changing and the digital revolution will not be televised.Explore how to incorporate Bitcoin into your business, job and educational institution. This book also outlines the need for separation from the racist banking system and a comprehensive list of Black professionals actively working in the Blockchain industry.

A riveting look at how people struggle to disclose their HIV status with sexual partners after testing positive. This enthralling self-help motivational book, provides everyone living with HIV, courage to relinquish their fear of disclosure. As well as shares resources and personal HIV dating sites, to help ease the need to share one’s HIV status with sexual partners. Bradley Fowler conveys a dynamic look at life with HIV, and removes the fear of disclosure by sharing two short-stories about couples learning to disclose and accept HIV as a reality in their daily life. Packed with sincere hope, love, and guidance to inspire all, and evoke disclosure in an effort to decrease the continued growth of HIV infection rates globally.

Black Pulp returns with Black Pulp II, a new volume of stories featuring characters of African origin, or descent, at the forefront. Developed by noted crime novelist Gary Phillips, Black Pulp II brings together familiar authors and characters from the first anthology while introducing new creators and concepts crafting exciting new fiction with heroes of a darker hue. Between these covers are 12 new tales of action, adventures, and thrills presented by some of the most talented authors in new pulp and genre fiction.

Second book in the Loving You Series

Toya Milner was smart, resilient, accomplished, and reclusive. After dealing with her ex-boyfriend, the psycho kidnapper, Toya no longer wanted to deal with the outside world and had panic attacks whenever she tried. She wanted to blame her ex for all of her fears, but Toya’s loss of faith in God’s ability to keep her safe had something to do with it also.

Jarrod Reed has loved Toya since grade school. When they were kids, Jarrod protected her from guys who tried to take advantage, but now he is determined to not only protect, but to love her for a lifetime. If only he can convince Toya to give their love a try.

As Toya’s faith in God grows, her heart begins to dream of love again. But is she meant to love Jarrod or have they missed their moment? Toya doesn’t want to make another mistake, especially when there were too many obstacles in their way. But Jarrod knows that their love is not a mistake and for Toya he will risk it all to make her believe in their love again.

This compelling murder mystery and suspenseful thriller will leave readers spellbound!

How are smart teenage girls lured into the dangerous world of sex trafficking and abuse? The newly married narrator, Treasure, takes readers into the shocking world of a 14-year-old who knows that answer and is brave enough to share it!

Two women from the Gullah/Geechee town of Jewel Park, New York, go missing while investigating insurance fraud at the hospital where they were employed. A doctor and a preacher may be involved. The 14-year-old is quite familiar with both men. One of them helped raise her. What family secrets will she reveal to Treasure about these men, her once privileged life, and the small town she grew up in, when danger is just around the corner?

In this stunning, action-packed follow up to The Plan, someone is killing the homeless in America’s largest cities. Whoever it is has the technology and access to stay one step ahead of the police. Do the killings relate to a proposed urban renewal fund being debated in Congress, designed, in part, to help the homeless? Or could this be a new copycat Plan? Or something else? Frustrated and stymied, the FBI asks Jackson Lowery and his team to find out who is behind the killings, leading them on a high stakes, nail-biting game of cat and mouse with a psychotic killer fueled by torture and murder. This harrowing and gritty 2nd installment of the Jackson Lowery Trilogy series pushes Jackson and his team to their very limits, forcing them to do whatever it takes to stop the killers before it is too late.

This book deals with what the surviving spouse will likely face in the beginning after losing their loved one. It contains simple common sense techniques to help make the transition and adjustment a little easier. All of this is based on what the author experienced after losing his wife to metastatic breast cancer. The suggestions, tools, and stories made available in this book will assist you in not only your healing but also in the rebuilding of your life. The materials presented here will not only aid those who have lost their spouse but can also help anyone who is grieving the loss of any other relative or close friend.

Alphabet City, East Village NY in the 80’s and 90’s, as crack, violence and politics came together to burn down the Old East Village and build something new.

Carol Denise Mitchell is back with another incredible work guide that promises to be the employee’s best friend. Considering Millenials and new office trends, in "Employee’ Only," Mitchell teaches young people and workers of all ages that are entering the work industry, most all they need to know to succeed in the everchanging workplace. This includes how to dress for the job. This book creates mock interviews, print-ready letters, and clear definitions of What is a Temporary Worker. As a much-needed tool, Mitchell gives great details of Worker’s Compensation, Sexual Harassment, Mock Interviews and more. People all over America will be adequately prepared for the job after previewing this stunning work guide built for Employee’s Only. Readers are sure to hone in on several work concepts they didn’t know before. Carol Denise Mitchell is the author of the hit employment resource guide, Your Rights, What Employers do not want you to Know.

“As a citizen of the State of Michigan, I’m not required to pay tithes, support any religion organization, or attend church. In fact, The Constitution of the State of Michigan protects all Michigan citizens from being forced to participate in any religion organization” Bradley Fowler conveys before citing The Constitution of the State of Michigan Article 1 § 4.

Since filing his initial civil suit against three world-respected Bible publishers, i.e. Zondervan Publishing, L.L.C. Thomas Nelson, and William Tyndale Publishers, in 2009. Bradley has invested eight-years, researching and studying to understand the use of hermeneutics, a branch of knowledge dealing with interpretation of scholarly work, commonly utilized by Bible scholars.

In 2009, when Bradley attended Florida Institute of Technology he was required to complete a course in religious studies; doing so enabled Bradley to learn how variation of terminology, Bible publishers utilize in an effort to discriminate against, homosexuals, in the many Bibles published since 1982.

Bradley conveys that each Bible publisher has willfully integrated bias towards homosexuals, men who sleep with men, and/or male prostitutes in the Bible, without concerning themselves about what the Bible actually teaches about interpretation of Biblical content.

Additionally, Bradley learned that the term-homosexual, wasn’t coined until the 19th Century, by German Psychologist, Karoly Maria Benkert. Learning this evoked Bradley to investigate, how today’s Bible publishers could convey that homosexuals would not inherit the Kingdom of God, in the countless Bibles, they edit and publish.

After all, most Bibles convey in Romans 10: 6 & 7, that “the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on the wise, Say not in thine heart Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above: ) or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.).

Bradley also points out that passages in I Corinthians 2:14, teach that the natural man doesn’t understand the things of God, nor can he know them because they are spiritually discerned. Yet, each Bible publisher sued published passages in the Bibles published between 1982-2015, discriminating against homosexuals, causing such persons to be victimized, taunted, and/or murdered internationally.

Thus, Bradley believes this new book entitled Why I Sued The Bible Publishers, will empower Christians and enable them to better understand, why Bible publishers are revising biblical texts, to not only convey what they believe the Bible should say. Bradley shared scholarly research explaining why bible publisher’s use of hermeneutics is misleading Christians away from the faith and discombobulating Christians about what the Bible actually teaches.

Bradley stresses, Christians should take a sincere interest in studying the Bible, beyond their neighborhood ministers, reverends, and Bishops, and enroll in scholarly courses that better educate religious practitioners about the history of Christianity, who established the Church, why the Church was foundered, and when Christianity was given power to exist.

Bradley believes, Christians will gain a substantial amount of education about biblical passages.

Watch out what you wish for…"" For three couples, a letter promising an anonymous gift of wealth offers worldly success and dreams come true, provided each pair can learn not only to work together, but also to see differences as strengths.

A is for Amorous by Grace Burrowes Adalicia Beauvais has no use for children, and even less use for most men. Plato wasn’t a bad sort, and Euclid was bright enough, but the modern variety of male holds no appeal for her. To earn ownership of a lovely country estate with a delightfully well stocked library, Ada must raise funds for an orphanage full of noisy, malodorous urchins. As if that isn’t challenge enough, her only ally in this endeavor, is the headmaster, Lord John, who loves children, referees cricket matches, and plucks Ada’s very, very last nerve, even though she knows his devotion to the children is genuine, as is the orphanage’s need for funds. Opposites don’t always attract, but in this case, they must work together for thirty days, or neither Ada’s nor John’s dreams will ever come true.

B is for Beautiful Secrets by Vanessa Riley Desperate to win proper dowries for his younger sisters, August Sedgewick has thirty days to sell his treasured art, make amends with his estranged brother, Lord Haverthon, and endure the prickly company of the business-minded Miss Nettles. The dedicated dressmaker is the toughest part of the deal for she’s more adroit at lecturing him on the habits of trade than succumbing to his charms. Yet, the sparkle of joy radiating in her spectacles as August distracts her with leisurely picnics and long rides in the park, teaches him more than he bargained for. Modiste for those with secrets—pregnant brides-to-be, aging courtesans desperate to keep their patron’s attention, Mary-Anne Nettles would love the opportunity to have her talent out of the shadows and as she creates the bridal gown for the event of the season, the Earl of Haverthon’s wedding. To win that chance, the demure woman must spend time with the earl’s flamboyant brother helping him set up a business in trade. Yet, Mr. Sedgewick proves a difficult student, teaching Mary-Anne about fun and drawing her deeper into the unseen turmoil of Ton.Can two very different souls rise above secrets to find a forever love for all the world to see?

C is for Charlie’s Angel by Kelly Bowen Henry Blackmore has always been a black sheep. He’s defied his ducal family, ignored expectations, and overcome tragedy to chase his own dreams of becoming a renowned architect. The only task standing between his fierce ambition and everything he’s ever wanted is the restoration of his family’s crumbling country manor. But first, he has to do something about Heaton Hall’s impossible steward.Heaton Hall was essentially abandoned when Maeve Murray became steward after the death of her father. When Henry arrives with his pockets full of cash, Maeve is delighted - until she realizes that the money is not to help the struggling tenants but to restore the frivolous ballroom. Nonetheless, Maeve and Henry, they need each other, and working together might just restore more than a crumbling manor - it could restore two broken hearts!

Year 2198: Planet Hope’s Teleportation program has crash-landed Eartha and the Neo Astronaut crew on the home of their ancestors and her namesake. But the mind powers that got them to this unfamiliar world can’t get them back and Eartha must fight her way out of the galaxy to get home to her young son, Delta. A daughter of Shogun City, Eartha is warrior trained. However, the solar system’s galactic police prevent anyone from going beyond Pluto. Battling forces determined to deem Planet Hope a farce, Eartha fears she must rely on her burgeoning Dream Sage powers, the very powers she vowed never to use again…the very powers that could keep her lost in the dream forever. Discover the adventure of one of Planet Hope’s greatest Neo Astronauts before the rise of Rayla.

Mercy Diamond goes to medical school to avenge the death of her sister Roxy Diamond. Unloved and in need of attention, Mercy is elated when baby sister Roxy Diamond is born, until at five Roxy dies in a house fire. Brilliant, will Dr. Mercy Diamond have the skills to rectify Roxy’s early death?

Love could mean an abundance of different things for you and me. For me, love had meant dedicating my life to my husband, it had meant belittling myself as a woman. I had thought that I had my life figured out, instead life had figured out itself for me. My name is Sassy, and I had to learn about love the hard way. I hadn’t acknowledged anything while I was living, besides the love that I had held for my husband.

My spirits had begun to fill uplifting, as my life had started to change. Here I am, telling anyone who’s willing to listen, all about my past, present, future and most importantly my husband James.

You are surrounded by fake love and attention. You are surrounded daily by the very people who claim to love you and would do anything for you, but who are tearing you down behind your back. Your relationship is fake, yet you don’t care. You’ve convinced yourself of somehow thinking those around you value your very existence, but they don’t care.Know who sits up in your face and that not everyone around you are black mambas—but cobras, vipers, anacondas, and the like, and their sneak attack is deadly. If you like being around people, chances are you got a few black mamas near you. If you love family reunions, chances are you have snakes and black mambas in your family. If you love your career and being around your friends and lovers, don’t mistake a missed strike for a love tap. My dear, you’ve been surrounded by black mambas and it’s time you get to safety.

Everybody is born into a world of sin, but how can you change your fate when that’s the only life you know? Damien Ruffin was born and raised in Harlem’s Taft Projects by his heroin-addicted mother. He only had one ambition in life, and that was to get out. Damien becomes a soldier in the street gang called, The Untouchables, led by the notorious gangsta known as Bishop. He quickly works his way up the ranks under the guidance of Bishop’s lieutenant Dwayne. Alliances are formed, loyalties are tested, but an old secret discovered could change everything.An internal war between Bishop and Dwayne for power will force Damien to make a choice, but his personal demons may prove to be his ultimate downfall.

Adorable and sweet Little Miss Maple has been inspired by the teacher to think big, she has taken it serious. She simply wants to change the world with her big way of thinking and big bright ideas, but lately that’s all she seems to think about. Day or night, Little Miss Maple, daydreams about the future until, she’s given something new to think about that helps her to put everything in focus. Little Miss Maple, thinks big is a cute story that encourages kids of all ages to be their best, but to still enjoy life no matter their age.

Heart and Soul is a spiral of thoughts laid out upon a page of life, of love and full of the beauty and emotions of a woman whose skin can only shine and whose eyes tell many tales of poetry. Heart and Soul is a collection of poetry meant to encourage and showcase the beauty of being a woman in our world. The themes revolve around self-love, relationships, life, and internal struggles and doubts.

Andrew ’Drew’ Joseph lives the life most people dream of, a Sports Agents replete with an A-List clientele and all the trappings success brings. There is never a shortage of professional sports players soliciting his services; especially those that require a broken moral compass.Neveah and Gianna, the two closest friends in Drew’s life, are roommates whose relationship is tenuous at best. Neveah, an unflinching gold digger looking for the first ticket to Easy Street, finds herself in conflict with Gianna who would much rather live a quiet anonymous existence. Each has their pasts, secrets, and pains to work through.Stepping off the elevator, walking into the magnificent decor, and triple A-list of professional athletics who’s who, none of our trio is ready for what is about to be unleashed as they each are unwittingly thrown onto the playing field, forced to win or go home.

T’was the night before Christmas and all through house a whole family slept soundly, three kids, two grandchildren, a husband and his spouse…

Ezra "Ethic" Okafor and his family are finally complete. After years of loneliness Ethic has met his match in Alani. She’s the queen of his castle and is a doting mother figure to his children. Only a few months have passed since they wed, but they’ve spent them happily and peacefully. Alani can’t wait to start new traditions with her family and she is determined to make the 12 days before Christmas memorable for them all.

Catch up with the Okafors as they spread a bit of nostalgia and some Christmas cheer in this surprise release by Ashley Antoinette. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, spike it with something strong (because that’s the Ash Army way), hit play on the holiday playlist, and snuggle up by the fire as this novel gets you into the Christmas spirit. Merry Christmas Ash Army!

Things are definitely "jood" (better than good) for 15-year-old Raheim Errol Rivers, III. A senior at Brooklyn Technical High School, he’s on track to become salutatorian of his graduating class. He’s juggling early admissions offers from Yale, Harvard, and MIT. He’s dating an "older woman": 19-year-old New York University sophomore Maxine "Max" Edgewood. But the chocolate icing on his yellow layer cake is his father, Raheim Errol Rivers, Jr., and godfather, Mitchell Crawford, reuniting after four years. Errol is ecstatic when Raheim moves back in with he, Mitchell, and Mitchell’s five-year-old daughter, Destiny. But he soon discovers that making room for another Rivers man in their home is easier said than done.

Motivating one another could be hard, and inspiring someone else could be a resistance. Inspire 2B Inspired, is a motivational novel that allows you to understand yourself while teaching you how to never place the blame upon someone else for something in your past; or for something that you could have prevented yourself. Think positive, with Motivational thoughts, while filling yourself with Knowledge, and Acceptance.

Once you’ve become aware of Knowing what’s best for you, you’ll become Grateful that you’ve Inspired yourself. Think outside of the way that you regularly think, think openly; while never seeming weak. Think for yourself, and love what you’ve learned from your past, embarrass what you’ve become, and understand why things are as they may be.

Make it your personal goal to think with positivity, understand that life is a gift, and understand that each day is a present with optimistic things in acceptance. Remove yourself from all negativity, and understand that negativity is a disease, for people that pray for positive thinking.

Understand that life is precious, and understand that you only get one chance to live. Think for yourself, while becoming open-minded, and understanding of others acceptance.

Sharing the importance of love and support for our children. Princess Primrose learns patience while taking a family trip to celebrate her special day.

Emerald Star Press presents an Erotic Anthology. An eclectic collection of authors offer short stories sure to bring out your inner freak.

A Sweet and delightful story about a croc who just wants to sunbathe. Cookie the croc just wants her very own spot. When she loses her spot to a group of crocs, she searches for another one to call her own. Finding the perfect spot to sunbathe was all Cookie the croc wanted and when she found it, she wasn’t alone. She would have to share her perfect spot with an ugly couch. In time, Cookie the croc finds a way to make the spot her very own. If you give a croc a couch, it just might eat it, is amazingly cute sure to bring out the child in anyone.

The sixth and final book in the Family Business series brings the Shepherd family and the Walker family from the Rain series together as they struggle to do the work of the Lord in this evil and confused world they now live in. Dam Shepherd is a full-grown man, married to the love of his life, with a baby on the way. Life is good… until he tries to step into the ministry God has for him. As one obstacle after another takes Dam’s focus off of his God-given assignment, he must decide whether he will do the will of man or the will of God.

Isaac Walker Jr. had a hard time dealing with the death of his parents. His father had always been such a force in his life, that he didn’t know how to move forward in ministry without him. Faced with losing his wife if he didn’t make changes, Isaac realizes that life must go on… and the ministry his father started had to continue as well.

What Dam and Isaac don’t know is that their ministry will usher in the end of times. If they fail to complete the mission God has for them then many souls will be lost. Can Dam and Isaac fight their way through and endure until the end?

The angel of the Lord encamps round about them that fear him, and delivers them. Psalms 34:7 God admonishes us not to be afraid, because He will be with us as we face difficulties. He will give His angels charge over us and keep us in all our ways. And in each of the fictional stories written in this anthology, the authors clearly show God’s undeniable hand in the lives of the characters, as angels work overtime to deliver them out of harm’s way.

While you will enjoy fictional stories in this anthology, there are also very real testimonies of God’s ability to walk with us and carry us through the storms of life. The Angels Working Overtime anthology will renew your faith and uplift your spirit.

Little Girl Arise speaks to the little girl inside every woman. The little girl who suffered a tragedy that caused her to abandon her purpose. Little Girl Arise provides essential principles to restore the life she thought was spiritually dead. This book will help every woman recognize her true purpose, and give her the steps to aligning her life with God’s plan.

Apex Magazine is a monthly science fiction, fantasy, and horror magazine featuring original, mind-bending short fiction from many of the top pros of the field. New issues are released on the first Tuesday of every month.

This month Sheree Renée Thomas guest-edits a special Zodiac themed issue!

EDITORIAL
Under Ancient Stars, New Dreams Are Born-Sheree Ren�e Thomas

FICTION
For Southern Girls When the Zodiac Ain’t Near Enough-Eden Royce
Prism-Stefanie Elrick
La Ciguapa, For the Reeds, For Herself-J.M. Guzman
Gasping-Brandon O’Brien
Jewel of the Vashwa-Jordan Kurella
The Barnum Effect-Celia Neri

POETRY
How to Paint Mercury-Mary Soon Lee
Capricorn-Tara Betts
How to Fly by Neptune-Mary Soon Lee
Celestial Mary (Galilean Daughter)-Sherese Francis
How to Speak to Pluto-Mary Soon Lee
A Theorized Form of Matter-Ashely Adams

NONFICTION
’There’s No Racism Here?’ A Black Woman in the Dominican Republic-Kiini Ibura Salaam

COLUMNS
Page Advice-Mallory O’Meara and Brea Grant
Between the Lines with the Print Run Podcast-Laura Zats and Erik Hane

INTERVIEWS
Interview with Author Eden Royce-Andrea Johnson
Interview with Cover Artist Stacey Robinson-Russell Dickerson

No More Bad Secrets is a kid-to-kid guide on Safe Body Touch. Using a simple, direct and age appropriate approach it teaches children a variety of topics such as: The difference between good and bad secrets, Who to turn to for help if they are keeping a bad secret and the difference between an appropriate and inappropriate touch. Designed for ages 4 and up you can rest assured that concerned Parents, Caretakers and Educators can approach this topic with ease Children would be able to receive guidance that they can understand, practice and put to use.

Baltimore college student, Brooklyn Taylor finds herself falling in love with a student who loves the streets more than anything else. Brooklyn begs Tyrell to change his lifestyle, but the more she pleads, the more distant he becomes. When Brooklyn discovers she is pregnant she is elated, but it quickly turns to devastation when she finds out her child’s father is on his way to prison.

Brooklyn begins to question her love for Tyrell and her future with him. When she makes the decision to stand by him no matter what her friends and family think of him, she prays endlessly to God that he will change his ways. Brooklyn gives birth to their daughter and takes on another job to earn extra money while Tyrell is serving time. He learns about her new job and becomes insecure and abusive upon his release from prison. The last physical altercation they have lands Brooklyn in the hospital where her internalized pain turns into deep-seated resentment towards Tyrell. As she lies in the hospital bed letting her physical wounds heal, her deep emotional scars remain. All she can think of is sweet revenge.

The finale to the gripping, disturbingly realistic Downriver Trilogy. The pandemic is over. Whole swaths of humanity are its victims. In the aftermath of the plague caused when an attempted genocide backfires, a majority of the Caucasians on the planet are wiped out, dramatically reforming social, political, and economic structures into nothing resembling what they once were. All that once was is now gone, and it’s up to the survivors to move forward. In the wake of this massive loss of life, alliances are formed as humanity struggles to emerge from the chaos, and create a new society. In this harrowing final chapter of the Downriver Trilogy, author Lex Ramsay explores the effects of racism in America, yet unplumbed in its level of depth and destructiveness, and paints a vivid picture of the way things could yet still be.

QUESTLOVE—musician, bandleader, designer, producer, culinary entrepreneur, professor, and all-around cultural omnivore—shares his wisdom on the topics of inspiration and originality in a one-of-a-kind guide to living your best creative life. Many of us have encountered many hardships in our lives. Even though we are confident and we think we are easily able to fulfil our dreams.  However the truth is different and our self-confidence is sometimes just insufficient to deal with some personal or professional situations and circumstances. And have you ever felt that you cannot even find a job because you are not self-reliant? Are you afraid of failure too? If yes, then this book has been written for you and congratulations for downloading it because you have just found the key to resolve all your problems.  Not only this book will teach you how to become self-reliant, but it will also help you be creative and successful just like QUESTLOVE, the popular Hip Hop icon. In addition to the help this book will offer you to learn how to be creative, it will also teach you how to overcome certain hardships and get over painful experiences you suffered in the past. Hence the title “The creative power of Self reliance, live your best life and forget the deception of the past”. this  she has a great tendency to run away at any opportunity? In the realm of self-reliance and creativity, this book will lead you to the shore of success and leadership; you don’t know, maybe you will become a popular entrepreneur, actor, singer, an Athlete, musician or anything you dream of. So set your goals and objectives and follow the tips that this book offers you and you will realize that being Self-reliance has never been easier. The Creative Power of Self Reliance will be your next best inspiration for becoming the creative person (like QUESTLOVE QUEST) you dream to be; it will help boost your confidence and your self-esteem. Whatever the area of activity you choose to develop your creativity, you should realize that you can do it, you can be more self reliant than you can imagine and who knows; you may start your project soon. Just stay positive and you will find out that I was right in predicting your success. You can do it; all you need to do is to believe in yourself.

The saga continues as Dewain searches desperately for the truth behind his best friend’s murder, even putting his own life at risk. He discovered that when money is involved people will change fast, even close friends. He must be prepared for the spin balls and straight pitches life throws. It isn’t the things we expect that conquers us, it’s the circumstances we underestimate or don’t expect that get the best of us or causes us to lose in the game of life.

Finding out the truth didn’t bring the closure that Dewain thought it would bring, but one thing was for sure, he could now rest peacefully without having to look over his shoulder and worry about his family’s safety. Dewain made an oath to himself to raise his newborn better so that he would not have to repeat the vicious cycle of failure that runs rampid within the urban community.

We all go through life trying to survive under various circumstances, due to corrupt situations. Living in poverty is a war within itself when it comes to living in a multi-culture community. Intimidation and peer pressure can become exhausting when it becomes accustomed to our way of living. In a community that’s gripped by poverty and drugs, the younger generation will soon glorify the older generation for their illegal hustling, and for the flamboyant way that the older generation flaunts their illicit living.

With a community dabbling in various types of illegal activity, Captain Newman had always had the last say as to who did what within his jurisdiction. The police of the community were hired by the community, to protect and serve the community. However, Captain Newman had trained his police team to taunt and intimidate the city that he was patrolling.

Learn to understand the various lifestyles of Tray’Sean, Jamal, and Charles. Understand how a corrupted policed department had once incited and influenced them.

They’ve gained their freedom from the South. But what if their new freedom is all a lie? Patrick Edgerton, leader of the Railway Association, has succeeded in the monumental task of freeing slaves from the once mighty Southern Republic. Following the fall of the South, the UN has decreed that the South must pay for the care of any former slaves. With hope finally on the horizon, Patrick and those he helped free begin what will be a long journey towards equality and rehabilitation. But the wheels of power are turning in the US capitol. With the UN’s proclamation against the South, the President of the US sees a way to bleed the South economically dry: by keeping the former slaves under a new, more subtle form of oppression, it will force the South to continue to pay for them until they have nothing left. This conspiracy sets off a deceitful chain reaction to construct a system of ghettos that keeps former slaves in a cycle of destitution and despair, ultimately creating second class citizens. With everything they’d worked so hard to achieve on the line, Patrick and a handful of others set out to ensure that the former slaves don’t become entrapped in this new kind of slavery; a slavery as bad as what they’d left behind. Full of powerful themes still prevalent in society today, Lex Ramsay weaves an eerily realistic story of race manipulation and marginalization, and those brave and willing enough to continue the fight.

A small collection of poetry for the mind to ponder and relate to.

Loving the right man will always be for the right woman’s worth to secrete her intellectual wealth. A woman can love a man for support, and a woman can love her man for his financial stability. A man that comes along with the values of life’s lavish comforts of living in luxury along with unlimited access to his wealth and security will always be eye-catching and looked upon by other women as her personal prize trophy. A woman’s true love for a man will always be forbidden because of the pain that she hides deep from within her heart.

Any man from a woman’s past can leave her with a cold and empty black heart that would eventually lead to the downfall of her new man’s future once he notices that hurt woman’s heart. Whether a woman was hurt in the past by her father, uncle, son, or brother a woman will never be able to give a man all of her true love and comfort.

Get to know Stephanie, Shay, Mali, and Cherry. Friends will become enemies, and new friends will introduce you to better ways of living. Skeemin and scamming are the only way of life if you choose to live extravagantly and outside of your normal living means. Men use women, and women use men, you can assume that someone has love and commitment for you. However, they will leave you at your best and their worst no matter how long of the engagement or place of the event.

Stray far from love because in the end love will always turn its back on you leaving you with no one to then turn to.

2018 Reader’s Favorite Bronze Award Winner for Best Young Adult Action Novel.
When the elevator cable snaps, they all think they are going to die. Instead, Tasha and her office colleagues find themselves trapped in a fantasy world, the crash only the beginning of their problems as they fight for survival. But the mystery of what happened gnaws at them as they venture deeper into an adventure filled with monsters, mystical weapons, and deadly challenges

Saladin, the first sultan of Egypt and Syria, is an iconic figure in Middle Eastern history.

Stanley Lane-Poole’s acclaimed biography Saladin and the Fall of Jerusalem is a complete study of the life of this noted leader: his youth, rise through twelfth-century Middle-Eastern politics, career as a military commander and the conquest of Egypt and Syria, and his intriguing clashes with Richard the Lionheart.

Throughout his life, Saladin established himself as a military commander of genius, a man of honour and an intrepid statesman, cementing his place in the annals of Middle-Eastern history.

The result of a lifetime of study by eminent historian Lane-Poole, Saladin and the Fall of Jerusalem benefits from the rich and colourful chronicles of Arab and Moslem historians, providing us with a unique insight into the life and deeds of this fascinating figure.

“Stanley Lane-Poole has rendered valuable service in his different works by presenting various phases of Oriental history and life in such a way as to interest even those to whom such subjects are ordinarily a sealed book”.—The American Historical Review

Stanley Edward Lane-Poole, 18 December 1854, was a British orientalist and archaeologist. Born in London, England, from 1874 to 1892 he worked in the British Museum, and after that in Egypt researching on Egyptian archaeology. From 1897 to 1904 he had a chair as Professor of Arabic studies at Dublin University. He died in 1931.

In a world where the South has won the Civil War… It’s 1982. A hundred years have passed since the South emerged victorious in the War of Northern Aggression. From the ashes of the aftermath, the industrial North has evolved into the technical center of the modern world, while the agrarian South, now broken up into Protectorate territories overseen by Protectors, props up its culture with vicious oppression. But now the South is in dire economic straits. Their refusal to allow slaves to use technology in their work has made their system obsolete and unable to compete with the global economy. Something must be done. Patrick Edgerton is the leader of the Railway Association, an underground network devoted to freeing slaves. When Patrick learns of the horrifying “final solution” to the South’s economic predicament, he teams up with Olivia Askew, a Southern Protector’s daughter. Now, it’s up to them to prevent the mass genocide the South is proposing. Southern Republic brings to life vivid details about the dual nations created when the South succeeded in defending its way of life, and asks the question, ‘What would our world look like if the South had won the Civil War?’

Rebecca Dash appears to have the perfect man. Caring, kind, compassionate, Richard is everything she ever desired. But when things start to fall apart six weeks before the wedding — from him canceling the wedding that had been their shared dream for years, to faking a heart attack and threatening suicide — he shatters their relationship and begins a series of disturbing incidents that force Rebecca to examine who Richard really is. Rebecca begins to piece together the patchwork quilt of Richard’s sociopathic persona, revealing him to be a serial killer of the soul; a man who crafts false love of legendary proportions. A man whose every relationship with a woman is defined by his vicious attempts to destroy his lovers’ lives. A man who appears to be the perfect lover, while leading his victims to their psychological and emotional destruction. A modern day Ripper, a psychological torturer, a serial misogynist.

Meet Nosey Charlie, a spunky little squirrel who grew up in the country. He became an orphan and moved to the city to live with his aunt, uncle, and his cousin, Pete. Charlie desperately wants to know everything about the people and strange objects in the city, and he doesn’t understand that he can’t always go wherever he likes. Mama Leticia (his aunt) tries to teach Charlie to be careful, and asks Cousin Pete to keep on eye on him. But Charlie is too nosey, and curiosity gets the better of him. He goes where he shouldn’t—checking out garbage bags in the park—and this time poor Cousin Pete gets hurt. The Nosey Charlie adventures will make you laugh and cry, and sometimes cheer Charlie along as he explores his new environment and finds himself in desperate situations.

Intimate Lies is about the lies people tell in relationships in order to make their lives a little less complicated. These people often believe that others are unable to handle the truth and thy base past relationships on how they deal with future relationships. This book is dedicated to helping people identify intimate lies and the liars who tell them.

"I thought that I had already thought about everything you could think about Love when Henry Drummond’s sermon fell into my hands. My life changed a lot from the moment I read the words in this book and tried to put his teaching into practice." Paulo Coelho —————— "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal." At some point, all of us have heard this passage from St. Paul’s Letter to the Corinthians. But do we really understand his message? At the end of the 19th century, the young missionary Henry Drummond was asked to replace a famous preacher. Though at the beginning he did not convince the audience, they were soon captivated by his analysis of the words of the Apostle Paul. This sermon, The Greatest Thing in the World, has become a classic and is, without doubt, one of the most beautiful texts ever written on love. Drummond broke it down into the following nine elements: patience, kindness, generosity, humility, gentleness, dedication, tolerance, sincerity and innocence. Contrary to what we are used to hearing, the greatest treasure in the spiritual life is not faith, but love. No matter what your religious beliefs are, this feeling is, without doubt, the most rewarding way to live. In The Supreme Gift, Paulo Coelho adapts Henry Drummond’s text, offering a real and powerful message that will help us incorporate love into our daily life and experience all its transformational power in our lives.

The God’s Graffiti Discussion Guide provides facilitators with a powerful tool that will help participants change the way they look at themselves and at others. The visual, auditory, and active learning content offer practical lessons for overcoming many of life’s challenges.

The God’s Graffiti Discussion Guide can be used for small or large group settings, for mentors, and for parents, and each section offers teaching moments that can be led by an individual or a team. This guide will assist with teaching the principals in God’s Graffiti: Inspiring Stories for Teens.

God’s Graffiti Devotional: From Prayers to Purpose is filled with stories of redemption. In all of our lives, there have been moments that shape who we believed we can become in the world. For some, it was what was said to us, for others it was the things we saw, and for still others it was how we were treated. The events that take place throughout our lives can leave wounds that we try to suppress and forget in order to move on. Through the stories of the men and women highlighted in the God’s Graffiti, we are able to see how God works with us to heal. No longer wounded by past pain, our scars become evidence of healing and testimony to others that God will use the suffering of your past for a greater purpose.

In God’s Graffiti Devotional, a diverse group of authors, have worked together to create meaningful daily inspirations. Each day is designed to reinforce God’s redemptive power and equip you to live into the truth; to know that there is purpose beyond pain, destiny in disappointment, and a masterpiece underneath the mess. The authors want you to know that no matter what you have been through in life, you are more than a conqueror, “You are God’s graffiti. You’re God’s work of art.”;

On an autopsy table, we all look the same. Not black. Not white. Just human.
And we all bleed red.
America has made many strides in our lifetime, including electing a president who is black. But race continues to be a central theme for many, causing them to attribute racial motivations to law enforcement, social policies, and laws. Race, though, has become less of a barrier or defining issue, as blacks have gained access to every corner of American government and public life.
In No Place for Race, Rodney L. Demery shows why his experience as a longtime officer of the law shows that issues blamed on race often have other causes. Demery urges that we stop using the oversimplified and easy answer of race, but instead delve deeper to look at the causes of issues that plague our families and communities. When we open ourselves up to the possibility of a social or economic cause or component to a problem, we also open ourselves up to the possibility that we can come up with a real answer to that problem, for we all want the same things.
This book will show you why: 1) Police racial profiling may be the result of the failure of black police administrators and policy makers rather than white supremacists. 2) Forty years of failed drug policies have put more drugs on the streets; and failed to reduce either supply or demand. 3) Black preachers have failed their communities and perpetuated a fear of nonexistent systemic racism, so they can profit from the fear. 4) George Zimmerman was the exception, not the rule: The most vital threat to a black man is a black man. 5) We have overcome, but many have failed to acknowledge it … even to themselves.
This book starts a discussion about the issues that are wrecking your community, moving us beyond race and focusing on the real dangers that are threatening our lives every day.

This book sheds light on the psychological implications and emotional effects believed to exist as a generational effect of post-traumatic slavery residue.

The telling of many different, yet very similar “hairstories”, produces salient thematic factors discussed in this study. It is my hope that one day our society and mental health professionals come to understand how hair impacts the psyche of African-American, and Multi-racial females.

This stimulating piece of Christian fiction portrays real life characters who search to find their way out of life’s frequent pitfalls in our modern time.