Books of Soul

A Heart of Cold by Wilma Blair-Reed

April 1, 2010

Eloquent Books
Available 02/26/10 in Hardcover

Why would a bright, beautiful, young black girl become filled with massive anger, hatred, and bitterness? When you follow Sarah Dixon’s life, from her sharecropping, small-town Texas days to a Dallas project and a major metropolis, you will unlock the key to her rage.

Abuse, rape, and incest claw at Sarah’s physical exterior, so she vows to escape the ruthless injustice of her earlier years at any cost. However, Sarah never dreamed that her quest for freedom and fulfillment would lead her to such dark and deadly places. Will she finally escape her tortured past, or be destroyed by it? Will her desperation and determination lead her to her ultimate triumph … or to her eventual downfall?

Author Wilma Blair-Reed is inspired to write by everyone she meets. She is a retired social worker who now enjoys working as a full-time writer. Blair-Reed is currently working on two new novels, The Odd Quad, about four unlikely friends, and A Portrait of a Sista’ Gone Mad, about a fragile young girl almost driven to the brink of insanity by life. Blair-Reed grew up in Niles, Michigan, and now lives in Moreno Valley, California.

Made for Goodness by Desmond Tutu

March 14, 2010

Made for Goodness: And Why This Makes All the Difference
by Desmond Tutu and Mpho Tutu

Rider
Available 06/22/10 in Hardcover

As Archbishop of Cape Town at the height of the Apartheid regime in South Africa, Desmond Tutu saw many shocking and violent incidents. Later, as Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, as well as a leading peace negotiator in many troubled parts of the world, he heard many appalling stories of man’s inhumanity to man. Yet he still has a firm conviction that we are ‘made by goodness for goodness’.

Another way of putting this is: the essential truth about all of us is that we are made in the image and likeness of God. Tutu explains that, though we sometimes act out of depravity and despair, we do know in our heart of hearts that we are not as we were meant to be, and were created to be so much more. The truth of human goodness can get hidden under the fear that we cannot live up to its demands, or it can get buried under faults or failures, or it can just get forgotten.

In this thoughtful and important book, the Archbishop (with his daughter, Mpho Tutu) shows how we can find our way back to goodness by changing our attitudes, by practising forgiveness, and by prayer. Then we will begin to see the goodness and beauty of others…If our view changes, this in turn makes all the difference to the way we act. And how we act towards one another affects not only ourselves but everything in our world – for the better.

40 Days of Power

June 14, 2009

40 Days of Power by T. D. Jakes

Destiny Image
Paperback available 06/01/09

One of the best known and beloved pastors of out time, TD Jakes, shares with you how to live victoriously and powerfully! Whether you start your day or end your evening reading 40 Days of Power, you will be refreshed and empowered to tackle like’s challenges. Allow God to take control of you circumstances!

I Am That I Am by Ellia English

June 8, 2009

I AM THAT I AM
by Ellia English

Xulon Press
Available March 3, 2009

TIMES UP (Don’t Wait Too Late) Each of us has a timer at the beginning of life, that’s activated the day of our birth. And we all have only a set number of years! To enjoy this life, as we journey here on earth! Each moment that passes cannot be recovered. Neither can each heartbeat pumping blood through our veins! As we live and grow and breathe every day, there’s lots of knowledge and wisdom to be gained. Yet, many of us miss out on so much! Caught up in drama! Paralyzed with heartache and pain! While the clock on our timer is steadily winding down, we have no one but self to blame. Just when we discover that we’ve lived a life less ordinary and so far beneath all that we were created to be. The timer goes off and the grim reaper says, “Your time’s up! Come follow me!”

I AM THAT I AM A JOURNEY THROUGH ADD-OL’-LESS-SENSE… is a distinct poetic novel of inspirational truths as described through a personal journey of discovery: the secret of destiny and the revelation of purpose, through a collection of inspired writings.

Spirit and Truth Mimes: Surviving the Struggles by Latisha Jackson

May 31, 2009

Released: April 2009

Spirit and Truth Mimes: Surviving the Struggles is Latisha Jackson’s debut book. It was published by Seaburn Publishers and distributed by Black Book Plus. The book is now available for purchase on Amazon. This is an inspiring story about three young men who are facing indivdual struggles within their families. However, they discover the power of prayer and unity as they learn to trust in God and each other. This book is sure to uplift and encourage every reader to hold on to their faith in God as they battle life’s storms. ISBN: 1-59232-174-7

The Ministry of Motherhood by Cheryl Lacey Donovan

May 25, 2009

The Ministry of Motherhood
by Cheryl Lacey Donovan

Peace In The Storm Publishing
Available 05/01/09

In The Ministry of Motherhood, author Cheryl Lacey Donovan tackles the issue of single parenting with raw emotion, insightful lessons, biblical references and relevant life changing inspiration for mothers of all ages. It will minister to women who are living the life that Cheryl has overcome. The empowering refreshing messages will challenge mothers to look inside themselves for change. It will help them to identify the strongholds in their lives; public assistance, lack of education, abusive relationships, and tear them down with the help of the creator so that they can in turn take the steps necessary to build a better life for themselves and their children. Cheryl’s transparency in The Ministry of Motherhood tears down all of the excuses for why single mothers can’t succeed. It breaks away at all of the lies that are told about why single mother’s are in their current situations; and it defies the statistics that say the children of single mother’s will never amount to anything.

The Ministry of Motherhood is Cheryl’s journey from being a teenage parent to being a successful mother, author, talk show host, and inspirational speaker. It tells of Cheryl’s transition from the devastation of an abusive marriage which left her with two sons at an early age to her testimony of deliverance and release. It gives an insightful look into what it means to be a “mother”; the hard choices, the sacrifices, the dreams deferred. The Ministry of Motherhood is more than just a mere book. It is a testimony of God’s ability to do exceedingly and abundantly more than we could ever ask.

Interview with Paulette Harper

April 12, 2009

Paulette HarperPaulette Harper is an emerging Christian Author making her debut with her first inspirational book “That Was Then, This Is Now, This Broken Vessel Restored”, a compelling story of deception, heart-ache and ultimate victory. In 10 chapters she masterfully uncovers the hidden obstacles she faced as the “first lady” and how she eventually broke through those barriers.

A native of Pittsburg, Ca, Paulette travels as an Inspirational speaker and licensed minister teaching people how to overcome life’s unexpected experiences by delivering a strong message of hope. Beyond her writing ability she has a passion to lead people to a clear and precise understanding of how life challenges can become one’s ultimate source of victory by sharing solid, biblical principles that will enable people to find a way out of every trial so they can reach their God given potential.

Paulette has been a contributing writer for Inspired Women, WOW Magazine, Divine Inspiration, Average Girl, Mentoring Moments, Internet Café, and Live Magazine. She has also been featured in Grace and Mercy Magazine and EKG Literary Magazine. She has been appeared on numerous TV and radio stations in the Northern California area.

That was Then, This is Now This Broken Vessel Restored by Paulette HarperTo schedule Paulette Harper for a book club meeting, interview, book signing, speaking engagement, workshop, seminar, or other appearance, please contact her at paulet_harper@yahoo.com. For more information about Paulette and her new release “That Was Then, This Is Now,” visit: Broken Vessel Ministry

  • What has been your writing experience like with your first book? Was it more or less difficult to write? What was your writing process like?

    While writing That Was Then, I was filled with excitement knowing that God had called me to do something out of the norm. Writing has never been something I had ever imagined doing so to see the journey I’ve been traveling has been exciting. That Was Then This Is Now is a non-fiction inspirational genre and it is about me so sharing it to the world was quite easy to do. My process of writing That Was Then is such that I named the chapter titles first and I built my story around each title. For example chapter 1 is entitled “Built to stand”. I chronicled several situations that I was faced with that required me to stand and face the opposition and I provided the scriptures as a reference guide to use in prayer.

  • What has been the reader reaction to your book? Have they provided encouragement?

    The response from the readers has been very positive. I’ve gotten many comments on how That Was Then, This Is Now has brought encouragement, hope and healing in so many lives. I get e-mails, phone calls and even people just approaching me to tell me how the book has blessed them.

  • How have you set out to promote it? Any book signings or book tours?

    I have a publicist assisting me in marketing That Was Then, This Is Now however I have continued to put the book before readers by using many on line magazine companies; I have joined many network sites; I have several websites and a blog page. I constantly look on line for promotional offers. I’ve written several articles that have made it possible for me to share about That Was Then, This Is Now. I’m am also a columnist for Step up Sista which is an on line magazine which allows me the exposure I need to get word out about That Was Then, This Is Now.

    My calendar continues to be full of book signing and speaking engagements. I’m planning on traveling to Alabama, Georgia and Florida later in summer months.

  • What are you reading now?

    Currently reading Dr. Linda Beed novel “Business Unusual.”

    I’ve read “Illusions” by Wanda Campbell. A Christian fiction but with real life issues. One of the reasons why I loved this book is because I could identify with the characters. It’s a story about a Pastor, his family and his church. In the story I began to reflect on my own life and some of the same issues that the first lady struggled with were my own. Even though it was fiction the situations and circumstances are things in which we face today. This book was one on hope, restoration and healing.

    I’ve read “The good stuff” by Michelle Stimpson. Another Christian fiction. A great read for those having problems in their marriages. What I loved about this book was the fact that the writer showed the importance of standing in a marriage and believing God to bring restoration. I was inspired because Michelle revealed that marriages takes work and both people need to have a open heart in order for God to come in and make things better.

    Since becoming a writer, my library has enlarged to include Christian Fiction. I usually read inspirational books. TD Jakes, Joyce Meyer, Joel Olsteen, Miles Monroe to name a few.

  • Tell us about That was Then, This is Now: How did you come up with the title of the book?

    That Was Then, This Is Now is a nonfiction inspirational book. I uncover the obstacles, barriers and hindrances I faced as the “first lady” while going through a divorce. It is a must read for anyone facing bumps in the road, those who are dealing with life’s challenges, disappointments and let downs. It is definitely a book that will inspire, motivate and encourage anyone to face every trial and test in life knowing that God will bring victory to them. The title was derived from a desire of wanting the readers to see the condition my life was in and the progression I was making as I traveled in unfamiliar territory.

  • Is there a message that you wanted your readers to grasp? Who were you writing to?

    The message is clear I want people to experience freedom and That Was Then, gives one a genuine message of hope. That Was Then, is written for those who are still scared by divorce, trauma and the issues of life. I survive what I called one of the greatest trials and I want people to realize that God will and can pull you out of your situation and bring good to you.

  • I assume that most of the book is shaped by your experiences but, are there other experiences that gave you additional inspiration to write this book?

    I realized that all during the ordeal God was carrying me through the rages of life. Even when He seemed so distant He was there. I continued believing that God was not allowing me to experience the things I was experiencing in vain.

  • Are you planning to write a follow-up?

    Actually I’ve started writing another book entitled: Completely Whole which will be released next year. It’s not a follow up to That Was Then, but I will share how God uses life tough times to bring us to a place of wholeness in Him, spirit, soul and body.

  • How does writing fit into your plans? What are your current projects?

    I’ve had to rearrange my whole life and put things in proper order. Writing has now become one of my major projects. I understand that I have something in me that is worth sharing and I’ve seen positive results from writing my first book. I will also launch writer’s workshops to assist other inspiriting authors and poets move from procrastination to become published authors.

Uncommon by Tony Dungy

February 21, 2009

Uncommon: Finding Your Path to Significance
by Tony Dungy and Nathan Whitaker

Available 01/20/09

The Super Bowl winning coach and #1 New York Times best selling author Tony Dungy has had an unusual opportunity to reflect on what it takes to achieve significance. He is looked to by many as the epitome of the success and significance that is highly valued in our culture. He also works every day with young men who are trying to achieve significance through football and all that goes with a professional athletic career – such as money, power, and celebrity. Coach Dungy has had all that, but he passionately believes that there is a different path to significance, a path characterized by attitudes, ambitions, and allegiances that are all too rare but uncommonly rewarding. Uncommon reveals lessons on achieving significance that the coach has learned from his remarkable parents, his athletic and coaching career, his mentors, and his journey with God. A particular focus of the book: what it means to be a man of significance in a culture that is offering young men few positive role models.

Living Well by Montell Williams

February 6, 2009

Living Well Emotionally: Break Through to a Life of Happiness
by Montel Williams, William Doyle

Available 01/06/09

New York Times bestselling author Montel Williams offers a pathway to emotional wellness. In his inspiring New York Times bestseller Living Well, renowned talk show host Montel Williams chronicled his personal battle against a life threatening disease, the foods and regimen that countered his illness, and revealed how everyone could benefit from his dynamic plan for better health. Now, just as he shared the story of his physical triumph, Montel now shares inspiration, advice, and a practical program so that readers can overcome personal obstacles to find the peace and love that everyone deserves.

Living Well: 21 Days to Transform Your Life, Supercharge Your Health, and Feel Spectacular
by Montel Williams, William Doyle

Available 12/30/08
NAL Trade Paperback

Montel WilliamsNew York Times bestselling battle plan for better living. Now in paperback! In Living Well, Montel explains the science behind his successful battle against multiple sclerosis, interviewing a global “SWAT Team” of doctors, scientists, and researchers, and reveals the amazing effects of healthy eating and regular exercise. Most importantly, Montel shares his groundbreaking 21-Day Living Well Food and Workout Program — a hard-hitting health plan of diet changes, a step-by-step exercise plan, and the gradual addition of raw and whole foods to daily menu plans. This three-week regimen forms the cornerstone of Montel’s successful dietary health plan. Also included are simple, wholesome recipes that are as healthful as they are delicious. For anyone who wants to fight obesity, cancer, heart disease, and neurological diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or multiple sclerosis — or if they just want to feel spectacular every day — it’s time to push life to the next level, by Living Well with Montel!

The 4 Day Diet by Dr. Ian Smith

January 16, 2009

The 4 Day Diet
by Ian K. Smith

Available 12/30/08

Dr. Ian Smith’s diets really work. America has lost millions of pounds following his Fat Smash and Extreme Fat Smash diets. Now, in The 4 Day Diet, Smith has developed a program that allows readers to avoid the normal (and fatal) pitfalls of dieting: boredom, no treats allowed, too much repetition, plateauing. The 4 Day Diet is an ingenious program of dieting modules lasting only four days each:

Induction (detox/cleansing)
Transition (to reintroduce all food groups)
Protein Stretch (to avoid plateaus)
Smooth (when you can have some formerly forbidden foods like pizza and French fries)
Push (the sprint just before the final stretch, back to a stricter eating plan)
Pace (a comfortable module for you to catch your breath)
Vigorous (the final module to lose those last few pounds)

You can follow The 4 Day Diet straight through for a month for stunning results. But Smith also designed The 4 Day Diet so you can customize your own program. After the first two modules, you can do the remaining 5 in whichever order suits your schedule or preferences or you can repeat the modules you like best. It also features over sixty delicious recipes for breakfasts, lunches and dinners and a complete snack list—food that will make you forget you’re on a diet.

Full of Ian Smith’s motivating tips and tricks and his smart, sensible eating advice that really works to take weight off fast, The 4 Day Diet is a diet you’ll be able to stick to, have success on, and even enjoy!