Carbon Copy
by Azarel
Life Changing Books

Have you ever craved someone so bad…that you’d be willing to do anything?

Meet  Dominique Lewis, a foul, hard-boiled, go-getter who spends most of her days yearning to be just like her sister, and plotting on taking her man.   For her, it’s all about money, sex, and power.   Although she possesses the perfect physique and sexy features, her life-long dream is to become wealthy and a house-hold name. By any means necessary, she vows to get what she wants.

As Dominique’s mission unfolds, she manages to get connected to Yuri, a violent replacement for the man she really sought.  After realizing she’s partnered with a beast, her world turns upside down. And soon, after the tragic murder of her sister, all hell breaks loose when Dominique’s cover is blown.

Armed with revenge on the brain, and a status goal in mind, Dominique soon appoints herself as Rapheal’s woman, the most sought after millionaire in Atlanta.  Raphael’s lavish status in town would put her on a new level, right where she always dreamed…the only problem …he never said he wanted her.   

In an effort  to hold on to Rapheal, and all the elaborate material possessions, Dominique sets out on a deadly mission to remove anything that stands in her way.

If you believe that you’ve read about many crazed and demented women like Dominique …guess again.  Dominique is off the hook and Carbon Copy is destined to be a classic.

List Price: $15.00 - Price: $11.03 - You Save: $3.97 (26%)

Click here for more titles from Life Changing Books

Maneater
by Mary B. Morrison & Noire
Kensington Books

New York Times bestselling author Mary B. Morrison pairs with Queen of Urban Erotica Noire to deliver two tantalizing novellas about sex, revenge—and getting what you deserve…

Character of a Man Mary B. Morrison
Seven Stephens seems to have it all—money, mansion and a man—but is taken by surprise when her fiancé tells her the wedding is off if she can’t lose twenty-five pounds in six weeks. In no time, she’s out the door and headed for Punany Paradise for a sensual workout that’s both sweet revenge and sweet surrender….

Sugar-Honey-Ice Tee Noire
Blow, Nap, and Tomere are three grimy playahs from the hood. Nicknamed Dirty, Dastardly, and Depraved, these three NFL stars have no problem living up to their names on and off the field. But when they scheme to take out their biggest competition, a promising quarterback, they finally meet their match. Not in a vengeful ball player, but in three wicked and sexy sistahs. And it won’t take Sugar, Honey, or Ice Tee long to wreck everything in their path. Because vicious hotties always take whatever they want and ruin whatever they please…

Noire is editor-in-chief of NoireMagazine.com, the Queen of Urban Erotica and #1 Essence bestselling author of G-Spot, Candy Licker, Thug-A-Licious, Baby Brother (with 50 Cent), Thong on Fire, Hood, and the editor of a collection of urban erotic quickies entitled From the Streets to the Sheets. Her first urban erotic film, Hittin' the Bricks will be released in 2009. Visit her website at www.asknoire.com or email her at noire@asknoire.com.

Praise For The Novels Of Mary B. Morrison
“With well-crafted characters and an intriguing plot, Sweeter Than Honey is an exciting start to The Honey Diaries Series and will have you eagerly awaiting the next installment.” —UrbanReviews.com
“Hot sex and high drama move Morrison’s latest page turner…” —Publishers Weekly on When Somebody Loves You Back

“After reading this intriguing story about love, faith, and happiness, you may never say never again.” —E. Lynn Harris on Never Again Once More

“Morrison delivers a deep, passionate story that holds readers from beginning to end.” —Black Issues Book Review on He’s Just A Friend

Praise For The Novels Of Noire
“Thong On Fire is compelling and engaging, the kind of story that once started, is hard to put down.” —RAWSISTAZ Reviewers
“Strong credible characters, wonderful storyline delivery, and salivating sex scenes makes this Noire's best novel. Thug-A-Licious is simply urban erotica at its finest.” —UrbanReviews.com

“Urban erotica has never been hotter!” —Nikki Turner on Candy Licker

“…Sexy, gritty urban melodrama…” —Publishers Weekly on G-Spot

List Price: $24.00 - Price: $16.32 - You Save: $7.68 (32%)

From Hood to HollywooD
by Sasha Raye
Life Changing Books

Ghetto born, Demi Rodriquez, a beautiful half-black, half-Puerto Rican bombshell enjoys her lavish lifestyle. Unfortunately, she gets a taste of the broke life when her drug-dealing boyfriend gets sent to prison. In an instant, Demi is forced right back into her mother’s cramped housing project in Harlem. Soon, everyday becomes a struggle and an emotional battleground until she meets a handsome movie producer from Los Angeles who thinks she has the sex appeal needed to make it to the top. In a quest for fame and fortune, Demi takes a chance and sets out for Hollywood where everybody and everything has a dream. Her chances of becoming an A-list actress get slim when she befriends a slick talking woman who dabbles in everything from drugs and prostitution to a life where some actresses don’t wake up the next morning. Follow Demi as she finds herself on the wrong end of the film business which is destined to destroy her mind, body, and spirit.

For MORE INFORMATION VISIT LIFE CHANGING BOOKS

OBSESSED
by Devon Scott
Dafina Books

In this sensual, unforgettable thriller, a husband and wife face the worst crisis of their marriage—and learn that no matter what twists life throws at you, holding on to the one you love is the only way to survive…

After five fulfilling years of marriage, Michael and Kennedy are the envy of their tight circle of friends. Michael is even more passionate about his stunning, successful wife than he was when they first met, and he is everything Kennedy has ever wanted in a man. But everything changes when the couple starts getting mysterious phone calls and threatening emails. Logan and Kennedy are being stalked—and the stress has their once rock-solid marriage unraveling.

Who could want to hurt Kennedy and Logan? Plenty of people, it seems. For the couple is hiding a secret that will shock their family and ruin their reputation. But Michael and Kennedy will do whatever it takes to save their relationship, even if it means hunting down a dangerous stranger...

PRAISE FOR UNFAITHFUL:
“Deliciously devious. A mouthwatering must-read.” —New York Times bestselling author Mary B. Morrison

“Scott is an author to notice with this credible, engaging debut… Seduction, deceit, anguish, and obsession flow in this page-turner.” —Romantic Times

Devon Scott lives in Washington, D.C.

List Price: $15.00 - Price: $10.20 - You Save: $4.80 (32%)

 

A NEW KIND OF BLISS
by Bettye Griffin
Dafina Books

From the author of The People Next Door, Nothing But Trouble, and If These Walls Could Talk comes a compelling, page-turning novel about a divorcee who moves back to her hometown and is faced with a choice between two different men.

After her father’s death, Emily Yancy reluctantly agrees to move back to her mother’s shabby apartment. There are some rewards for dutiful daughters, though—like Aaron Merritt, a rich, single doctor who’s soon taking her to fancy restaurants and inviting her to meet his family. But when the lights go out, something’s missing.

Then she runs into Danny Simms, her eighth-grade crush. He hasn’t achieved what Aaron has—but he’s picked up a few skills in other areas. Can Emily choose a relationship that doesn’t satisfy her mind—or a romance that leaves her cold? Or is there some way that she can find the best of both worlds?

Betty Griffin lives in the North Chicago suburbs with her husband. Visit her website: www.bettyegriffin.com

List Price: $14.00 - Price: $10.98 - You Save: $3.02 (22%)

MAKE YOU MINE
by Niobia Bryant
Dafina Books

Two total opposites, united by a heated one night stand, wonder if their passion can lead to a love that lasts for the long haul in this explosively hot romance.

Three months after a first date that ended in a night of explosive passion, Caress Coleman and Julius Jones find themselves somewhere between roommates with benefits and true love. She’s smart, beautiful, and one paycheck away from broke. He’s smart, handsome, and very successful. But that’s just the beginning of their differences….

She’s messy—and that’s putting it nicely.
He’s a neat freak—and that’s an understatement.

She’s happy in sweatpants.
He’s an urban sophisticate who wears the hippest designer labels.

They’re total opposites in every way but one: they share a sizzling attraction that makes them want to beg for more and more.

PRAISE FOR NIOBIA BRYANT
“Hot men, spicy women and a sexually captivating story.” —Romantic Times on Hot like Fire

Niobia Bryant is a national bestselling and award-winning author. She currently writes full time and splits her time between New Jersey and South Carolina. Visit her website: www.niobiabryant.com

List Price: $15.00 - Price: $10.20 - You Save: $4.80 (32%)

The Betrayal
by Tami Cleckley
iUniverse

List Price: $15.95

About the Author
Tami Cleckley published a short story, The Dance, in an anthology entitled 'The Hoot & Holler of The Owls.' She participated in The Zora Neale Hurston/Richard Wright Writer’s Week. Educated at Kean University, she lives in New Jersey and is presently at work on her next novel. She can be reached at cleckleywrtr@comcast.net

Brooklyn Brothel
by C. Stecko
Life Changing Books

The saying, I Love New York, brings chills to Chantel Ramsey's heart. For her, New York is a place of hatred, brutality, and self destruction. With her life on the line, she takes her new gritty environment in Brooklyn by storm. New tensions surface when she enters a new brothel where every conniving tenant is for herself. Conflict heats up when Chantel figures out she has to become just as ruthless and treacherous as her co-workers. Determined to end up on top, she uses her luscious body, and undeniable street skills to rake in the cash, and turn her life around. However, there's one problem that lurks in the darkness; pimps don't lay down easily. Chantel ends up running for her life with the possibility of being put six feet under.

List Price: $15.00 - Price: $10.20 - You Save: $4.80 (32%)

Click here to read more about Brooklyn Brothel

Brotherman: Dictator of Discipline Volume 1
by  Dawud Anyabwile and Guy Sims

Excerpt from “Visit Big City” Brochure.
Sponsored by the Bureau of Staying and Leaving.

From the Bronze River to Wayne Bay, Big City has something for everyone (mostly thieves). From the night life, (if you feel safe on the streets) to sports (losing) teams, to the sounds of the Big City Maxtropolitan Orchestra, you will take a part of the great (become) history with you. Let the BC Massive Transit take you to the exciting sights and sounds for mere pennies a ride. (800 pennies) Taste the many flavors of Big City at renowned restaurants, bistros, and diners from Central Point to Trap to Vex. (does the health department agree?) Thinking of taking in some culture? (visit Upper Crust) country Big City’s got it! (and you’re gonna pay to see it) From the award winning Sprawling Towers Art Museum to the historic Skyline Theater, you can take in a show, enjoy the music, or simply stroll through one of our many parks. (before you get mugged)

Don’t let the history of Big City slip by you. The historic district has many (street hard) lessons for you, your friends, and family. See how the early settlers built Big City, from a small commerce town to the bustling (hustling) city of today. (you’re gonna get hustled) We’re waiting for you (down an alley) . . . we have something for you (a gang of parking tickets) . . . and it’s Big! (hassle)

Dawud Anyabwile
Creator/Illustrator/Co-Writer
"As far back as I can recall I had an appetite to create.” Emmy Award Winner, Dawud Anyabwile, formerly known as David Sims has been drawing his own characters since childhood. This Philadelphia native says that his earliest creative inspirations came from his older brothers, his comic book collection, his father’s extensive book collection on Black history and listening to music. Upon entering high school, Dawud abandoned his interest in mainstream comic books to focus his creative energies into the upcoming sub-culture of hip hop and fine arts. The fascination of graffiti, DJ’ing and fine tuning his basic drawing skills as an art major only further refined Anyabwile’s focus on becoming an artist for a living.

“I always knew that I wanted to run my own business but I did not know what kind of artist I wanted to be. There were so many directions that I could go into. I never thought of doing comic books full time nor animation. They seemed like hobbies to me not career goals. Illustration always seemed like the logical route for me.” Dawud went on to build a city wide reputation as an airbrush artist which eventually led to the creation of one of the most popular independent comic books of the 90’s and beyond. The release of “Brotherman: Dictator of Discipline” was a rewarding experience for Anyabwile but it also was extremely arduous. “We faced many challenges from racial ignorance and resistance within the comic book industry to the stresses of traveling around the country to distribute and promote our books on our own . . . all the while I was the only artist doing the work of a full production crew.” These challenges were overcome by tremendous leaps and bounds and paved the way for a new generation of young black artist-entrepreneurs who were inspired to follow the blueprint that was laid down by Anyabwile and his brothers.

Guy Sims
Co-creator/Principal Writer
Writing is such a powerful medium. It not only brings voice to ideas, it also has the ability to misshape them. Born from solitude, it delivers expressions to the world, to the few and to the one.- GAS

Guy has authored two of the earliest publication on the subject of Kwanzaa. The first was “The Kwanzaa Handbook” (1981) and the second, “The Kwanzaa Kids Learn the Seven Principles” (1984). An avid poet and writer of short fiction, Guy has completed a collection of new American Tall Tales, Rife Powers and Other Too Tall Tales, has a screenplay currently under solicitation, and will complete his first novel, Livin’ Just A Little this fall. Like most creative spirits, it is hard to pinpoint when he wanted to add writing to his life experiences but his earliest inspiration was the audio version of Richard Wright’s Black Boy, shared with him by his father. “After hearing that record, I thought I wanted to tell stories like that. I immediately read as much of Wright’s work as possible. ” With time came more writers and genres to explore: Shakespeare, Baldwin, Benet, McKay, Vonnegut, and Walker (to name a very few). Some of his contemporary influences and motivators are the late Bebe Moore Campbell, E. Lynn Harris, and Walter Moseley. “When I think about what influenced me with the Brotherman series, I am drawn to the works of the two Chesters… Chester Himes and Chester Gould. Their
stylizing of characterizations, settings, and tight stories continue to impress.

No More Mr. Nice Guy: The Undoing of an African American, How I Survived a Corporate Career Derailment
by James Alston
BookSurge

In clear prose, No More Mr. Nice Guy by James E. Alston draws extensive conclusions on race relations in corporate America. In this professional biography, he writes with a heartfelt conviction from an insider’s perspective as a top restaurant executive for over thirty years. An analysis that is well overdue, the author outlines the instances and impact of evasive, covert discriminatory practices of managers and coworkers on all levels of employment.

James E. Alston tells it like it is and how it has been for thirty years in the food and beverage industry. This professional autobiography spans three decades’ experience of a top African American executive and points an accusing finger at corporate America to remind us that we have a long road ahead of us. The challenges in the workplace are clear.

This professional autobiography deals with the psychosocial dynamics in a workplace environment and how the impact affects minorities and ordinary people. His subordinates, fellow managers, and executives we meet through this text teach invaluable lessons on how to handle undue and inappropriate pressure, tenacity, and how each of us—no matter their color or creed—has a breaking point. Pushing all the right buttons, this true story is filled with empathy and powerful directives on how to choose battles in order to win the war. Fearless and without irony, this sociological analysis of an African American climbing the corporate ladder in order to hit the glass ceiling that held a painful reminder of how little has changed in the past century. This tell-all serves as a prophetic history lesson filled with the backlash of sexism and corporate color games. Ultimately, a lesson on grace and how to survive, minorities and non-minorities are given a rare glimpse into just how unfair the corporate environment and workplace can be.

List Price: $15.99

Author's Biography
Shortly after college Mr. Alston started his career in the food and beverage industry where he was employed with the same company for thirty years.

James E. Alston was born in 1951, in the rural setting of Franklin County, North Carolina; the oldest of three children. His family relocated to New York in 1957. He was recognized and awarded with numerous recognition plaques and certificates of accomplishment during his tenure with his Corporation. Mr. Alston holds recognition for community involvement while employed in his business field along with personal recognition for involvement with various youth and charity groups in the different states in which he resided.

2009 Axiom Business Book Awards.

Playing Dirty
by Kiki Swinson
Dafina Books

From Essence® bestselling author Kiki Swinson—one of the reigning stars of urban lit—comes a scintillating drama-filled tale about life on the streets.

In Miami, things are always hot and it doesn't get any more sizzling than Yoshi Lomax. Blessed with a quick mind and a bangin' body, Yoshi puts all her assets to work by providing her boss with late night favors to help her get promoted to senior partner at a prestigious law firm.

To keep her high acquittal rate, Yoshi gets some of Miami’s finest under her payroll. But before long she is swept into the criminal underworld and starts experimenting with drugs. And when the leader of a Haitian mob gives her $100,000 for taking his case—with the proviso that she’ll die if he’s not acquitted—Yoshi realizes too late that this time she’s not just fighting for her client, but for her life…

PRAISE FOR KIKI SWINSON
“After reading Candy Shop all I could say was scandalous!”
—K'Wan, national bestselling author of Gangsta, Street Dreams, Eve, Hoodlum, and Hood Rat

“I'm Still Wifey is the truth! Swinson has done it again. This book pulls you from the first page.”
—Treasure E. Blue, Essence® bestselling author of Harlem Girl Lost

Kiki Swinson was born and raised in Portsmouth, Virginia. She discovered her flair for writing twelve years ago after completing her first novel, Mad Shambles, while serving a five-year sentence at a federal prison. After being released in December 1996, Kiki later went on to self-publish Mad Shambles. Her passion for writing didn’t stop there. Writing feverishly into the wee hours of the night, she completed her second novel, Wifey, which was published by Melodrama Publishing. After the success of Wifey, Kiki penned the sequels I’m Still Wifey and Life After Wifey, as well as The Candy Shop and A Sticky Situation.

Expensive Taste
by Tiphani
Life Changing Books

Meet Mirror Carter, a paranoid chick from Shady Grove Trailer Park who would die to forget her past, and bask in a more sophisticated lifestyle. Although Mirror gets a small taste of the glamorous life, her appetite for wealth continues to grow as she constantly searches for the next big money-maker. That is until she meets, Brice Tower, the handsome, and filthy rich owner of the Houston Rockets, and her meal ticket to the millionaire’s club. Soon, chaos erupts and Mirror’s fairy-tale life turns into a nightmare when she finds out Brice’s best kept secret. As Mirror vows to hold on to her spot at the top, Brice struggles to keep her away. When the game of fatal attraction turns hood, Mirror’s past is exposed and all hell breaks loose.

List Price: $15.00 - Price: $10.20 - You Save: $4.80 (32%)

Tiphani’s first fiction effort, The Millionaire Mistress, sold out everywhere within the first three  months of its release, landing it a spot on the Essence Magazine best seller’s list for: March 2007, April 2007, May 2007, June 2007, #1 in July 2007, and March 2008. Still A Mistress, the successful sequel to her first novel, made its debut on the Essence Magazine bestseller’s  list, taking over the #2 spot for March 2008 and April 2008.

In addition to being an accomplished writer, Tiphani Montgomery, is a motivational speaker focusing her energy on developing outstanding leaders and encouraging her generation to defy the odds. Tiphani currently resides in Raleigh, NC with her nine-year old daughter, Jaedah Kiss, where she is penning her fourth novel, a screenplay, and establishing a non-profit organization to encourage financial literacy to teenage mothers.

Click here to read more about Tiphani

The Company We Keep
by Mary Monroe
Dafina Books

From the masterful pen of New York Times bestselling author Mary Monroe comes a compelling, thoroughly entertaining novel about searching for and finding love.

After a string of failed relationships, record company executive Teri Stewart has decided to concentrate on work. Her best friend and assistant, Nicole, tries to convince her to socialize more, though her own love life is seriously lacking. Still recovering from divorce, Nicole is a single mother who’s not going to settle for less than the real deal.

Nicole and Teri both know what they do and don’t want. But when DJ Harrison Starr enters Teri’s circle, she can’t resist him. And if Nicole keeps ignoring the complete package that’s been standing right in front of her, she could miss her chance at happiness. Now, both women must learn that the company they keep can sometimes lead us down the wrong path...or guide us right where we belong.

PRAISE FOR THE NOVELS OF MARY MONROE
“Monroe delivers what could be her wildest and most entertaining novel yet.” —Publishers Weekly on Deliver Me From Evil

“Monroe’s richly drawn characters will stay with readers long after the book is finished.” —Booklist on Gonna Lay Down My Burdens

“Monroe’s literary canvas is painted with broad strokes, with verve and humor and passion.” —Christian Science Monitor on The Upper Room

Mary Monroe is the New York Times bestselling author of She Had It Coming, Deliver Me From Evil, God Don’t Play, In Sheep’s Clothing, Red Light Wives, God Still Don’t Like Ugly, Gonna Lay Down My Burdens, God Don’t Like Ugly, The Upper Room, and the novella “Nightmare in Paradise” in Borrow Trouble. An avid traveler, Mary currently lives in Oakland, California.


List Price: $15.00 - Price: $10.20 - You Save: $4.80 (32%)

Don't Let the Lipstick Fool You
by Lisa Leslie with Larry Burnett
Dafina Books

Lisa Leslie—three-time Olympic gold medalist, three-time MVP of the WNBA, and one of the greatest players in the history of women’s basketball—tells the incredible, inspiring story of her life, on and off the court.

As a child growing up in South Central Los Angeles, Lisa Leslie was timid, awkward, and constantly struggling to overcome self-imposed fears and limitations. Today, she’s a beautiful, poised, assertive, six-foot-five basketball powerhouse whose elegance and charm have made her a favorite with fans, the fashion world, and even Hollywood.

Overcoming doubts are what paved the way to Lisa’s greatest achievements—scoring 101 points in the first half of a high school basketball game; signing with Wilhelmina Models and appearing in Vogue magazine, and of course traveling the world and winning championship after championship. Here, for the first time, she shares her empowering story about finding grace under pressure and exceeding all expectations—including her own.

PRAISE FOR LISA LESLIE
“There are a lot of young girls out there who look up to Lisa Leslie. I think it’s great that they can look at Lisa and say we don’t have to make sacrifices.” —Sheryl Swopes, Houston Comets and U.S. Olympic Team

“She has it all: beauty, brains, and athleticism. She brings class, fashion, and she’s sassy in her own way. She has all that and the championship rings to back it up.” —Nancy Lieberman, ESPN analyst and Hall of Famer

Before beginning a professional basketball career, Lisa Leslie was a standout at the University of Southern California, where she was a two-time winner of the Naismith Award. A Philanthropist, ESPN broadcaster, and former fashion model, she lives in Los Angeles with her husband and daughter.

Larry Burnett is an Emmy award-winning journalist and sports broadcaster. He has known Lisa for fifteen years and has been the radio and television play-by-play announcer for her L.A. Sparks’ games for the past nine seasons. He has anchored Sports Center and The NBA Today Show for ESPN, and he has hosted the Lakers’ radio broadcasts and The Phil Jackson Show.

List Price: $15.00 - Price: $10.20 - You Save: $4.80 (32%)

You Don’t Know My Story
By Loretta Watson
Teacher – Writing Exclusively for Children

Praises for You Don’t Know My Story
This book will definitely hold the attention of children in elementary school, middle school, high school and even college. If you have ever said to your child, “Go read a book!” This is exactly what you’ve been looking for!!

Our kids are constantly bombarded with negativity on television, and even in the music they listen to. Well, parents can be at ease. This book does not contain violence, cursing, gangs or sexual content. Finally something young people can enjoy!!!

Best Friends Forever
Twelve year old Ebony does her best to take care of her wheelchair bound mother, Jackie. But, Ebony’s big brother, Snake, is determined to cause problems for Ebony and Jackie. Ebony’s next door neighbor and best friend, eleven year old Essence, always has Ebony’s back. Whatever Ebony and Jackie need, Essence is always there to get it for them. Because of Snake’s actions, Ebony and Essence have to make a serious decision. One day, everything, literally, comes crashing down.

Father and Son
JayQuan, a south side fifth grader, wants nothing more than to spend time with his daddy, Martin. But, Byrd, Martin’s new wife, makes sure Martin spends all of his free time with her young children, Ron and Marquetta. Through it all, Donna, JayQuan’s mother, does all she can to be a mother and father to JayQuan. Can she play the dual role or will someone else step in to be that male role model JayQuan so desperately needs?

New Army
Brandon, a college senior, returns to his hometown, Richmond, Virginia to start a much needed summer program for children in Church Hill. Brandon, along with his New Army staff, and his high school sweetheart, Ayana, try to make a difference in the lives of the children in Church Hill. When Brandon learns about what the twins, Fat Baby and Scooter, are going through at home, he tries to help. Then, Brandon’s own childhood memories resurface and the burden becomes a little too hard to bear.

My Destiny
Destiny, is about to start her freshman year at a west end high school. She and her best friend, Country, are excited about being in the band, representing their school every Friday night on the field. But Destiny has a constant battle with her big sister, Dee. Destiny has something Dee always wanted. Destiny’s mother, Diane, has held a deep, dark secret for years. Once the secret is revealed, the family is torn apart. Will Destiny crumble or stand strong and reach her own destiny?

Author Bio
Loretta is a 1989 graduate of Virginia State University. With twenty years of teaching experience, she taught for several years in Newport News, Virginia. Loretta currently teaches sixth grade Richmond, Virginia and serves as a cheerleading coach and 6th grade team leader.

In 1996, Loretta released her poetry book There Is Hope which is endorsed by Nikki Giovanni, world know author and current professor at Virginia Tech. In 2006 she released My Mama, My Teacha, a novel.

Loretta is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She is married to Nuzelle Watson, Jr. and they have one daughter, Shaune’ Watson.

List Price: $12.00

Up To No Good
by Carl Weber
Dafina Books

Carl Weber, the New York Times bestselling author of Something on the Side and The First Lady, introduces a deliciously dysfunctional family in this brand-new page-turning novel filled with intrigue, sex, and surprises…

There is always a man around the corner. And church trustee James Black should know—he’s usually that very man, carrying on affairs with married women and sleeping with one conquest after another. But when he suddenly finds himself in love, his marriage proposal generates a ripple effect of shocking proportions.

The other women in James’s neighborhood have a thing or two to say about his new love. His daughter intends to dismantle his relationship. And James’s son decides to follow in his father’s womanizing footsteps after catching his fiancée cheating. James may have been the one to unleash this maelstrom of events, but he has no idea how to stop, especially when another shocking revelation surfaces…

PRAISE FOR CARL WEBER
“Weber keeps things tight and funny; readers with a bent for the bootylicious will certainly want to pick this one up.” —Publishers Weekly on Something on the Side

“Major revelations and an eye-raising twist will make even seen-it-all fans gasp.” —Publishers Weekly on So You Call Yourself a Man

“A delightful and entertaining book.” —Black Issues Book Review on So You Call Yourself a Man

“A fast-paced mix of scandal, jealousy and wickedness.” —Publishers Weekly on Player Haters

“Married Men is full of flavor, wit, drama and everyday situations…Carl Weber shows staying power and will leave you wanting more.” —QBR The Black Book Review

Carl Weber is the New York Times bestselling author of Something on the Side, The First Lady, So You Call Yourself a Man, The Preacher’s Son, Player Haters, Lookin’ for Luv, Married Men, and Baby Momma Drama. He is also the Publisher and Editorial Director of Urban Books. He graduated from Virginia State University with a B.S. in accounting and has an MBA in marketing from the University of Virginia.

List Price: $24.00 - Price: $16.32 - You Save: $7.68 (32%)

Like A Good Neighbor
by Dwayne Murray Sr.
Madbo Enterprises

The author of The Mouse that Roared and Whatever It Takes returns with yet another edge-of-your-seat thriller. Chaos ignites and hell's fury is unleashed in this battle of good versus evil . . .

Besides sharing the problems of living in a deteriorating building, the thirteen tenants at 666 Cypress Avenue all have a very deep and bitter hatred towards one another. As temperatures rise in their South Bronx neighborhood, so does their frustration with the building's broken doors, malfunctioning elevator, rat infestation, and skyrocketing rent increases. To make matters worse, the blazing heat is also sending everyone's animosity to its boiling point.

Then a new tenant arrives, taking up shelter in the last vacant apartment. Highly intelligent and extraordinarily beautiful, Raven Thorn blows in like a much-needed summer breeze. Unleashing her charisma, she slowly gains the trust and admiration of all the tenants except one.

Crystal Bright, a crack-addicted young woman, looks like the poster child for everything that's wrong with society; but beneath her addiction lies a heart of gold and a very intelligent mind. Sensing a darker and much more sinister side to Raven, Crystal realizes that she must act fast before a fuse is lit that could ignite a bloodbath between the fragile building's hostile tenants.

Dwayne Murray Sr. resides in New York City, where he was born and raised. An electrician by trade, the author walks a fine line on the job and gets a thrill bringing that same sense of heart-pounding danger to his action-packed novels.

List price: $14.95

A Gift to the Eye And More
by Leceila Turnage
Urban Soul

Forty-year-old, never-married Eva Liles desires marriage and children. And even though she lives a short distance from Raleigh, North Carolina, where she works and spends time socially, she remains unlucky at love in a city nationally ranked as one of the top ten places for singles.

When she meets the handsome, wealthy Xavier Dupree, he seems to have everything that she would want in a mate except one thing . . . he's currently incarcerated as a first-time felon. In Eva's mind involving herself in a relationship with him would signal sheer desperation -- settling in the worse way.

When her church’s most notorious gossiper catches wind of her love interest, Eva has one of two choices to make…embrace Xavier and endure ridicule and embarrassment or deny her heart the love its always longed for.

What some readers have said about A Gift To The Eye And More:
“A well-written novel with a dash of suspense.” – Diane (Raleigh, NC)
“Intriguing. Keeps you wanting more.” – R.J. (St. Louis, MO)
“Insightful, descriptive. Judicious storyline.”—Carolyn (Richmond, VA)
“Good from the first page.” – Bobbie Sue (Wendell, NC)
“A good read. Well-written!” – Ken (Manhattan, NY)
“Delightful!” –Shelly (Philadelphia, PA)

Leceila Turnage resides in North Carolina, and is employed as a social worker.  She is a graduate of Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina, where she earned a bachelor’s in sociology and Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, where she earned a master’s in social work.  She has worked at battered women shelters, departments of social services, adult and juvenile correctional facilities, and public school systems.  Her second novel, Peony’s Daughters, is scheduled to be released this summer.

List Price: $6.99

First Comes Love
by Shana Burton
Urban Soul

What happens in Vegas doesn't always stay there....
 
When best friends London and Bernard jet off to Vegas for a night of parties and casinos to numb their broken hearts, they don’t count on waking up next to each other the following morning with a nasty hangover and a signed marriage certificate. London and Bernard nix their plans to quietly and quickly annul the marriage when London’s grandmother uses a fast tongue and biblical principles to convince them to try to make their marriage work.
 
It doesn't take the newlyweds long to realize that maintaining a friendship is a lot harder than sustaining a marriage.  Their constant bickering leads London to finding solace with an old flame who's trapped in a loveless marriage of his own. Their marriage is further strained when a sexy new temptress sets her sights on Bernard. After a night of passion leads to unintended consequences, London and Bernard seek God for answers and are forced to decide if loving someone means holding on to that person at all costs or being willing to let go.

List Price: $14.95 - Price: $10.17 - You Save: $4.78 (32%)

Strong Like Koffee
Robin King
BookSurge

In Robin King’s, new book, Strong Like Koffee, the protagonist, Koffee is a young freelance writer living in New York City. She finds her life to lacking in excitement, and consequently decides to go to a club one night.

While she is there, she meets a guy, but does not spend the night with him. She thinks nothing more at it, until contacted by the police, who have discovered him dead from a gunshot wound—apparently murdered.

Koffee may be innocent, but she is the last person known by the police to have seen the victim alive. She is thus accused of murder, as well as theft, in addition to participating in an illicit affair. While events begin to spiral out of control in her life, she has to figure out why everyone is claiming she is the murder.

Strong Like Koffee utilizes an innovative technique in which the characters are not described—not even nationality, race, or physical characteristics. This allows the reader to depict the characters in their mind however they would like. In addition to being an entertaining story, the book demonstrates how just about anything can happen to a person. At the same time it touches upon such topics as murder, the theft, lust, alternative lifestyles, romantic affairs and future accusation—in a unique style.

List Price: $13.95

A Worthy Legacy
Tomi Akinyanmi
Tommie Books

The Harmattan wind scorches across Nigeria, and an old man lies dying. His community gathers to pay its respects; their haunting songs echoing in the warm twilight. Tomi Akinyanmi, his eldest granddaughter, is present along with the rest of the family, and as she listens to Grandpa's last words, she feels a resonance deep within her heart. For Grandpa doesn't talk of regrets, or petty grievances, instead he talks softly about life; how to survive, how to be happy, how to achieve self-respect.

"A Worthy Legacy" is a book far greater than its sum of parts; a moral guide that does not preach or command, but simply presents a code for life with a confidence and credibility that allows the reader to relate to and apply its philosophies.

List price: $15.95

Marriage 101
by Jewell R. Powell
Revell

Marriage is no fairy tale. Author Jewell R. Powell knows from experience. But she also discovered that there is hope for getting through the hard times, and that, with God, a happy and fulfilling marriage is possible.

Using the story of Sleeping Beauty as a parable of God’s plan for marriage, this book/workbook combination offers an 8-week plan for individual or group study that encourages examining the areas in our lives that need to change. Using biblical examples, reflection questions, and Scripture meditation, Powell challenges those who want strong and healthy marital relationships to lay a spiritual foundation from which to grow. Marriage 101 is a valuable, insightful resource that couples can go to for help when dealing with the real issues they face.

List Price: $13.99 - Price: $11.19 - You Save: $2.80 (20%)

Betrayed
by Bintell Powell
Bandit Publishing

In BETRAYED, via his alter ego, Mark Christian breaks down all financial & social barriers at work, breaks the fast women he meets off in the kinkiest of places, and owe yeah, he breaks his long time girlfriend's heart completely, as she is dying to become his wife. Bintell Powell tells you what you don't want to hear, while he exposes his own inner demons for all-the world to see and judge. He is bringing you the truth of this deadly & media seductive dilemma. Bintell Powell tells you why real black women are the last to be married, and first to be single mothers. He tells you what you know to be true, but choose to hide from. BETRAYED will break your heart. You will be entertained. You will be sexually tantalized. You will be horrified.

Bintell Powell, personified through an alpha male/corporate thug named Mark Christian in this semi-autobiography titled BETRAYED, is taking a chunk out of the Big Apple. He's also putting a dent in the power structure of the Black communities so-called "Master Race", those being light skinned black people. Bintell Powell is exposing the "Black Bourgeoisie" as he takes readers on his journey to create a fashion/lifestyle magazine for the Internet called LIFESTYLISH.COM. His goal is to cash out for a few hundred million, but just before Bintell Powell/Mark Christian succeeded, he realized that success turned him into exactly what is destroying him, and more importantly, dark skinned black people. The choices he was forced to make were deadly ones.

From the womb of corporate America, to the bowels of the "BLOCK", Bintell Powell via Mark Christian is destined to rule. And just when you thought BETRAYED was just another heartbreaking materialistic love story, you get the shock of your life!

This is BETRAYED, the controversial book by BINTELL POWELL, heard 20+ times as a BEST OF WENDY segment on the world famous WENDY WILLIAMS EXPERIENCE on WBLS's 107.5.

This is BETRAYED by BINTELL POWELL, the author from the heated debates on the light & dark skinned conflict in Black America which aired on BET's MEET THE FAITH hosted by Dr. IAN SMITH & on BETJ's My Two Cents….

HOWARD STERN said in his one-on-one interview with the author, "BINTELL has released an explosive book in BETRAYED!"

The only book on the planet that unleashes the true depths of a Black Man's soul without shame!

"Deep! Forbidden! Climactic! Enter the Black man's mind if you dare!"

"A Man's diary & A Woman's nightmare!" --Heather Covington (DisilGoldSoul Literary Review)

About the Author
Bintell Powell is a 39-year-old African-American male born to Jamaican immigrants who left their country in the late sixties in pursuit of the American Dream. Born in Brooklyn New York, and moving quickly to the upscale suburbs of Long Island New York, Mr. Powell has grown to become the quintessential "corporate thug." He is the author of Betrayed, a dramatic, multi layered novel in which he embodies all of the pain, suffering and heartache of Black people in this ultra sexy, intellectually decedent work. His stance on the Black experience will shock and amaze.

Bintell Powell is a modern day Renaissance man. He is a musician, athlete, writer, engineer, sociologist, economist, art lover and most importantly, a lover of his people. His troubled yet majestic upbringing is what he credits with, and I quote, "making me whatever I have become." What he has become is a risk taker as he believes, "light skinned and dark skinned black people are two different races."
This talented controversial author is a graduate of Northeastern University and holds a Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering. He has worked as a consultant for various Fortune 500 technology firms in New York City for the last 10 years. To his credit he has run a consulting firm and launched a high end lifestyle magazine in the wake of the Internet boom. He also believes he has invented / discovered the proverbial "Formula for Success" which he calls, THE FORMULA.

You can get more information about Bintell Powell and his novel at the website, WWW.BINTELLPOWELL.COM

Which Man
by Ginny Albert
iUniverse

Sierra Bradford may be a savvy African-American romantic suspense writer, but in life she is a virtual innocent when meeting Wade Grisham – a handsome GQ-appareled man, who quickly captivates her. In the background is James Waverly, who has been Sierra’s best friend since High School. It is through James that Sierra meets Wade Grisham. When James is unexpectedly called away to tend his sick brother, Wade and Sierra begin a relationship. James returns and feels betrayed as things have escalated between Sierra and Wade in a manner James never intended or imagined. James confronts Wade, and the men come to blows. At first Wade stubbornly clings to Sierra, but for dubious reasons abruptly breaks off their engagement. Sierra is devastated, but with James’ help, begins to recover. But then Wade returns to reclaim his ex-fiancé —at which time a series of strange events occur. Someone close to Sierra dies, and another is murdered. Before long, Sierra is being stalked. Both Wade and James are a source of consolation and protection for Sierra. But does James or Wade possess the power, the magnetism, and the passion to ultimately enthrall Sierra and win her heart? In the end, she is forced to choose—which man.

Biography
Ginny Albert has been writing but years, but in 1978 a particular novel led her Egypt to gather research. It was an amazing cultural awakening. Two highlights of the trip were climbing The Great Pyramid at 5:00 a.m. – a thrillingly frigid experience; and a special kinship with the Egyptian people. She also got a surprise when she returned home; she discovered that she was pregnant. It was years before she was able to get back on track with writing. There were several starts and stops.

Finally, in 2003 Ginny began writing Which Man, which was published in 2007. In 2008 Which Man was made required reading at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln by Dr. Kwakiutl Dreher. This distinction led to the novel being on the shelves of Georgia State University in late 2008; it is also on line at such university book stores as Clark AU, Yale, Spelman, Tuskegee, etc. In addition to on-air interviews on two People TV shows -- Book Talk, and Mills Connection, LLC, Ginny was interviewed for article in Georgia State University’s student newspaper The Signal in January 2009.

After several successful book-signings in 2008, Which Man has been chosen as the April 2009 read for a local Atlanta book club. Additionally, two Atlanta-area libraries have scheduled book-signings for early 2009.

Ginny has completed another novel entitled Love at Shadow’s Edge, and is beginning work on a new one.

Also an artist, Ginny is founder of GinnyArt (www.cafepress.com/ginnyart). Her artistic designs adorn her own tees, known as Chic Shirts. On October 18, 2008, her ink drawings garnered 3rd Prize at Smyrna’ Georgia’s Spirit Walk Exhibit. As in 2008, her artwork will be on display at The Georgia Women Lawyer’s Association in March 2009, as well, and is being considered for entry in an exhibit being sponsored by Trees Atlanta. The intent ultimately is to display the work in exhibits nationally, and internationally.

But, by far, the most exciting and heart-felt experience she’s ever had was being present at the birth of her first grandson, Jason Wesley. At four pounds, and a month early, doctors determined that he would probably be a bit slow. But, God had other plans for little Jason, who is smart and thriving more everyday. He is the light of her life.

List Price: $13.95

Twist
by Angie Jennings
Spine Publishing

Are you looking for the next book character who, with her comical honesty and snappy comebacks, reminds you of one of your best girlfriends?

Meet Sharin Downs.

If you enjoyed the journeys of Tracy Ellison in Omar Tyree’s “Flyy Girl” and “For the Love of Money” and Venus Johnston in Trisha R. Thomas’s “Nappily” series, you’ll enjoy the rollercoaster ride which is the life of Sharin Downs. 

Like many people right now, Sharin has experienced a series of dead-end interviews and job layoffs in the Washington, DC area.  “I couldn’t believe they’d laid me off only thirty minutes ago and were about to chow down on seafood and steak,” she said after seeing her former employers walking to McCormick and Schmick after canning her. Her love life has been moving at the pace of rush hour traffic on a holiday weekend as her relationship – for lack of better words – with Alphonso, an Army guy, flounders. To top it off, Alphonso leaves the military out of fear of being deployed to Iraq – and leaves Sharin for Atlanta.  Of course Sharin’s left to wonder, “Is this the best my life can get?” This question activates her fight-or-flight response and causes her to pack her bags and flee the nation’s capital – for Atlanta, coincidentally – only to find out that her real issues – and Alphonso – are seemingly inescapable.

No wonder she’s depressed.

With the help of her psychiatrist, Dr. Bailey, and her friends – new and old – can Sharin make sense of her personal and professional lives? Find out in “Twist” (spine publishing, $12.95), the debut novel by Angie L. Jennings.

Pass this email along to your book club members so you all can order your autographed copies today. Also, visit www.callmetwist.com to listen to audio chapters from the novel.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Angie L. Jennings is an advocate of writing quickly and not giving the demonic self-critic the chance to set in and dig its claws into her back. With the instruction of a university seminar, the first time novelist followed a rigorous schedule—writing two hours a day for six days a week—to complete her manuscript in a month and a half. It was almost two years later that she was able to see the rough draft objectively and self-publish her first book. Jennings is an adjunct English professor with colleges and universities in the Washington, DC area and runs aiellejai (pronounced A-L-J), a communications firm.

List Price: $12.95

Where There's Smoke
by Terra Little
Urban Books

Sixteen years after the fact, Alec Avery gets an unwelcome blast from his drug-dealing, street-running past that turns his life upside down. Back in the day, he was known as “Smoke” and Anne Phillips was one of his customers. So how did they end up with a teenage son together? You do the math. Dollars make sense, but Anne didn’t always have the money to pay for what she wanted. Now Alec is paying the price.

These days he’s a military vet and a well-respected high school teacher. Just about the last thing he expects to encounter is a son he never knew he had and a bunch of foolishness that he thought he was done with. The boy - Isaiah - is out of control, experimenting with drugs and running with a rough crowd, and the last thing he expects to encounter is a long-lost father who is hell-bent on making his presence felt in a very meaningful way.

Before long, Smoke has no choice but to come out of hibernation to right some wrongs, starting with the thugs who don’t want to turn his son loose. They didn’t count on old school meeting new school, which is their first mistake. And Alec didn’t count on drooling over the woman his son’s mother has become, but whether or not he’s making a mistake remains to be seen.

Contemporary fiction and just a hint of urbane drama bump heads as two people are forced to step outside their comfort zones and acknowledge the dark past they share, so they can snatch a clueless teenager back from the point of no return. But while one long-overdue relationship is taking shape and gaining substance, another long-forgotten one is gathering steam and sparking flames. Two was always company, now is three a crowd?

List Price: $14.95 - Price: $11.21 - You Save: $3.74 (25%)

Black Mahler: The Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Story
by Charles Elford
Grosvenor House Publishing Limited

A ‘must-read’, Black Mahler: The Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Story dramatically brings to life the true story of all but forgotten, English composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor (1875-1912).

Born to a white mother and black father and raised in the London suburbs, Coleridge-Taylor’s epic choral trilogy ‘The Song of Hiawatha’ makes this funny, generous and modest young man a worldwide sensation overnight.

Coleridge-Taylor made three high-profile tours of America (1904, 1906 & 1910) and was hailed a cultural hero by the African American community to whom slavery was a very recent memory. He had the unprecedented honor of a private audience with President Roosevelt and was the first person of African descent ever to conduct a white orchestra in the US.

Black Mahler: The Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Story is an evocative and vital dramatization of the man’s life, colorfully told for our generation through the recollections of those closest to him - his discovery; his student days at the Royal College of Music; the disastrous sale of his biggest hit for just 15 guineas (about $30); his colleagues, friends and family; his sparkling classical and ‘pop’ music; his stardom; his poverty; his humor; his Pan-African work; his brush with a certain ‘unsinkable’ trans-Atlantic liner and his tragically premature death aged just 37.

The themes of artistic rivalry, ‘selling out’, overwork, international stardom, perfectionism, financial struggle, love, grief, the quest for acceptance, prejudice and relentless struggle make this modern rendition an inspirational and timeless tale for the 21st Century.

Ever cheerful and so loved, he changed the lives of countless thousands. His varied influences echoed down through the ages and will continue on.

He united a world.

Visit www.blackmahler.com for more information - reviews, endorsements, author interview, pictures, historical timeline, links etc).


Author Bio
On 7th April 2004 an article by Norman Lebrecht (BBC broadcaster, award-winning novelist and Assistant Editor to the London Evening Standard) marking the release of Coleridge-Taylor’s Violin Concerto was published. It likened the success of ‘Hiawatha’ in the late 1890s/early 1900s to the success of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s musicals today. But on reading the article, Charles Elford was surprised that he knew nothing of Coleridge-Taylor despite the name’s vague familiarity. His interest piqued, he started to dig and hasn’t looked back. Not managing to trace the two ‘definitive’ biographies, the principal sources for Black Mahler: The Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Story were the biographies by Coleridge-Taylor’s wife and daughter.

During the course of his research and writing, Mr Elford developed a huge affection for his gentle, clever, modest and funny protagonist and doesn’t believe that Coleridge-Taylor deserves to be, or to remain, forgotten. He felt duty-bound to remain loyal to the truth and sincerely hopes that Black Mahler: The Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Story will in some small way, renew interest in this inspirational and influential man who only ever saw himself as the English musician who lent his race a voice.

Charles Elford trained originally as an actor at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama. He lives in Whitstable, Kent and works for a charity that provides supported housing and associated services to vulnerable single homeless people and those at risk of homelessness. He is currently revising his screenplay adaptation of Black Mahler: The Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Story. Norman Lebrecht said ‘It’s an incredibly human story which would translate extremely well to film.’

Although many other wonderful things have been said of this book (you can read some of them at www.blackmahler.com) Mr Elford tells us the most gratifying commendation came from Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s own grandson who, in October 2008, said ‘...It was wonderful reading and towards the end I just could not put it down. The imagination on Charles Elford’s part was incredible; because everything was so absolutely accurate in every detail. I wondered where he got his information from. It was more than just a pleasure, it was like going back in time.’

List Price: $13.50

CLICK HERE TO READ AN EXCERPT FROM BLACK MAHLER

SCRATCHES
by Frankie Nicole
ANESCO Enterprises

Scratches is a page-turner and a fictional book for ALL - young, old, male, female, rich, or poor. The storyline is a series of interesting and dramatic life episodes that are real to everyday people. Charlie, the protagonist, unexpectedly befriends the characters, which are woven throughout the book, to help them deal with their emotional scars of a failed professional sports career, abandonment, incest, cheating, job termination and so much more.

The inspiring message is to help you understand your purpose and empower others to have healthier lives by overcoming pain or "scratches" that occur in life. We do this by forgiving others, loving unconditionally, becoming responsible, facing adversity, learning life lessons, and understanding that "this too shall pass".

This book will teach you that “scratches” transcend across all barriers and backgrounds in life because we all have them! It’s multicultural, yet the questions is: What are you doing about yours?

Frankie encourages readers to find something positive about the book and refer it to other novel enthusiasts. This book contains NO explicit material or profanity but is filled with drama and the episodes are filled with revelations, metaphors, and lessons that you can identify with at some point in time.

Available for book club, church, school and organizational discussions.

You can visit www.FrankieNicole.com for event updates, book signings, email signup, or to read an excerpt. Also, online orders can be placed at www.FrankieNicole.com (via PayPal) or through www.Amazon.com. Scratches will be available at your local chain an independent book stores (Barnes & Noble, Borders, and etc….) beginning Spring 2009.

Mail orders can be sent to: PO Box 29513 Washington, DC 20017. If you have any questions, please email: info@FrankieNicole.com or visit www.myspace.com/authorfrankienicole.

BEST AFRICAN AMERICAN FICTION 2009
Gerald Early, Series Editor
E. Lynn Harris, Guest Editor 

Trade paperback: $16.00
Hardcover: $23.00

Hailed as “a collection not to be missed” (Publishers Weekly), BEST AFRICAN AMERICAN FICTION 2009 gathers the very best recent work from both established names and up-and-comers.  The offerings depict black life in times gone by and in today’s ever-changing world.  And the series brings together writers ranging from Edward P. Jones, Walter Dean Myers, and Stephen L. Carter to ZZ Packer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Mat Johnson, and Junot Díaz.  What unites all these stories, whether set in suburbia, in 18^th century New York or on a Caribbean island is their creators’ passionate engagement with matters of the human heart.

The selections were chosen by bestselling author E. Lynn Harris and cultural critic and essayist Gerald Early and include stories, novel excerpts, and pieces specifically geared to the young adult reader.

BEST AFRICAN AMERICAN ESSAYS 2009
Gerald Early, Series Editor
Debra J. Dickerson, Guest Editor 

Trade paperback: $16.00
Hardcover: $23.00

Noted essayist and cultural critic Gerald Early and editor Debra Dickerson, the author of The End of Blackness, bring together an exciting collection, the first-ever annual anthology of writing solely by African Americans. Here are remarkable essays on a variety of subjects informed by—but not necessarily about—the experience of blackness as seen through the eyes of some of our finest writers.

From art, entertainment, and science to technology, sexuality, and current events—including the battle for the Democratic nomination for the presidency—these essays offer the compelling perspectives of a number of well-known, distinguished writers, including Malcolm Gladwell, Jamaica Kincaid, James McBride, and Walter Mosley, and a number of other writers who are just beginning to be heard.

Selected from an array of respected publications such as the New Yorker, the Virginia Quarterly Review, and National Geographic, the essays gathered here are about making history, living everyday life—and everything in between.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ABOUT THESE GREAT BOOKS

In Love With A Younger Man
by Cheryl Robinson
NAL Books

Happy New Year...Here's to being In Love

Her tryst with this sexy young man uncovers a startling secret...

At forty-three Olena Day has her life under control. Her professional life at least. But having earned a years’ sabbatical what will she do now? Enter Matthew Harper, a management trainee for a large auto dealer, who has big plans when it comes to his career. But relationships? He’s never been serious about the young girls who have thrown themselves at him. But this ambitious and fine bachelor’s world gets rocked when sexy Olena walks into his dealership. She may be looking for a new car but she’ll end up with a lot more than she bargained for. Besides their eighteen year age difference there’s another secret that could threaten this May-December romance.

In Love with a Younger Man is a Black Expressions Main Selection for January 2009

For more information visit www.cherylrobinson.com and www.myspace.com/cherylrobinson

List Price: $14.00 - Price: $11.20 - You Save: $2.80 (20%)

Love Thy Neighbor
by Quientola Eicher
Tate Publishing

Olivia is on her way to work when she stops to help a stranger. The young woman she rescues, Shantell, has a young son and she is dying of leukemia. Shantell needs a bone marrow transplant and the only one that can help her is her father.

Shantell disappears, leaving Olivia to care for her son. When she returns to claim her son, Olivia receives her reluctantly into her home. Together they learn to trust one another and live together like a mother and daughter.

Shantell unexpectedly lands a job at a Christian radio station working alongside a young man she suspects may be her half-brother. He informs her through her indirect inquisitiveness that his father is the bishop of Mt. Zion church.

The young man finds out by accident that Shantell may be related to him. He thinks she is trying to blackmail his father and doesn’t want to have anything to do with her until she is almost sexually assaulted by another co-worker.

Olivia is in search of a new church because of her dissatisfaction with her former pastor’s decision to get a divorce. Shantell convinces Olivia to try Mt. Zion. Olivia finds herself attracted to the bishop of Mt. Zion church.

Olivia’s past catches up with her, forcing her to face lies and deception concerning a crime she did not commit. She is wondering if she is worthy to be a bishop’s wife.

Shantell is confounded on how to let Bishop Perry know that she is his daughter and needs his help. At the last minute, Bishop Perry is able to donate the bone marrow tissue to his daughter and it is a match.

Olivia is able to put her past behind her and look to the future as a new bride.

List Price: $24.99 - Price: $18.99 - You Save: $6.00 (24%)

A Preacher's Passion
by Lutishia Lovely
Dafina Books

In the tradition of Kimberla Lawson Roby’s Curtis Black novels, Lutishia Lovely delves into the scandalous exploits of church folk in her newest novel featuring the Kingdom Citizens’ congregation.

After being celibate for five years, Passion Perkins is ready to end her drought. She’s also determined to hold out for Mr. Right, and in Lavon Chapman, she thinks she’s found him. He’s come to the community to oversee the filming of a series of DVDs, inspirational messages from her pastor, Rev. Stanley Lee and his fiery wife, Carla.

Passion goes on an all-out campaign to win Lavon. But she isn’t the only one feeling a strong attraction to Lavon—Carla is feeling it too. Soon, other members of the church community are entangled in scandals, and while some are getting busy in service to the Lord, others are just getting busy…

PRAISE FOR SEX IN THE SANCTUARY
“Lutishia Lovely has provided a spell-binding tale with some hilarious and righteous characters. While this story is heartfelt and at times dire, nothing compares to its laugh-out-loud moments.” —The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

“A fantastic read that deals with celibacy, obsession, sisterhood and forgiveness.” —Books 2 Read Magazine

“Provides an honest look at love and romance in the lives of four saved women and will provide laughter and inspiration for all, whether married or single and searching. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. You won’t either.” —Shades of Romance Magazine

Lutishia Lovely is an actress, poet, spoken word artist, and former radio and television talk show host. A Preacher’s Passion is her third novel.

List Price: $14.00 - Price: $11.20 - You Save: $2.80 (20%)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DAFINA BOOKS

Something On the Side
by Carl Weber
Dafina Books

Carl Weber—the New York Times bestselling author of The First Lady and So You Call Yourself a Man­—delivers a straight-up novel about friendship and love, sex and betrayal, and how getting some on the side is never as simple as it seems.

Meet the bodacious women of the Big Girls Book Club. There’s only one rule to being a member. You must be at least a size 14…

BGBC president Tammy has the perfect birthday present in mind for her husband—a threesome with her best friend, Egypt. If only Egypt will agree. Isis is willing to lay down and die for her boyfriend Tony, until a man from her past steps back into her life. Single mom Nikki is struggling to get by—and struggling not to kill her ex, who disappoints their son every chance he gets. Good thing her roommate Tiny has got her back. Coco Brown likes to mess around with married men, but since she hooked up with her new man, all she cares about is making sure he doesn’t stray.

As insatiable about books as they are about love—or lust—these friends are about to discover how tough it is to keep it real when they all have something on the side.

PRAISE FOR THE NOVELS OF CARL WEBER
“Bestselling author Weber serves up another scintillating slice of church politics….He keeps the pacing brisk and loads the narrative with enough surprise turns to keep readers guessing to the end.”—Publishers Weekly on The First Lady

“Weber gives us a front-row pew seat to all the action going down…”—Essence on The First Lady

“Major revelations and an eye-raising twist will make even seen-it-all fans gasp”—Publishers Weekly on So You Call Yourself a Man

“A delightful and entertaining book.”—Black Issues Book Review on So You Call Yourself a Man

“Weber spins a lively, revelation-packed tale deepened by genuine emotion, convincing detail and smart dialogue.”—Publishers Weekly on The Preacher’s Son

“A fast-paced mix of scandal, jealousy and wickedness.”—Publishers Weekly on Player Haters

“Married Men is full of flavor, wit, drama and everyday situations…Carl Weber shows staying power and will leave you wanting more.”—QBR The Black Book Review

Carl Weber is the New York Times bestselling author of The First Lady, So You Call Yourself a Man, The Preacher’s Son, Player Haters, Lookin’ for Luv, Married Men, and Baby Momma Drama. He is also the Publisher and Editorial Director of Urban Books. He graduated from Virginia State University with a B.S. in accounting and has an MBA in marketing from the University of Virginia.

List Price: $15.00 - Price: $10.20 - You Save: $4.80 (32%)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DAFINA BOOKS

Finding Grace on a Less Traveled Road: A Cancer Doctor Reflects on Living and Dying
by R. Elliot Willis MD
iUniverse

How should we live, and how should we die? Finding grace in life and death is an eternal quest for us all.

Finding Grace on a Less Traveled Road is both an autobiography, and a biography. It is a book that takes the reader on a journey through the life of a cancer physician who learns early, as a child, about the true meaning of life, death, hardship, and suffering. It is through the author’s own understanding of what it means to overcome incomprehensible odds that the reader comes to understand the true meaning of how we should live, and the gracious manner in which we should die.

This book is a firsthand account of growing up poor and gifted in one of the toughest environments in America during the turbulent 1960’s. It is an inspirational and unforgettable story of determination and personal triumph. This poignant memoir describes the author’s passage from his traumatic childhood in a large family living in Chicago, through medical school education, significant early work in AIDS research during the onset of the epidemic, and, finally, a successful career treating cancer.

Finding Grace on a Less Traveled Road embraces a range of American issues and ideas. It affirms our belief in the possibility of achieving goals through persistent work, no matter the starting point. More, the book illuminates the predicament of the poor. It deals with so-called “giftedness,” portrays the true nature of the worst pandemic in history, and helps demystify the care of the terminally ill, and interprets society’s role in all of these arenas.

The author weaves the events of his life poignantly in-and-out of the life events of his family, friends, patients, and colleagues, revealing how the events in all of their lives stand as a testament to the fact that we humans are more than just flesh and blood. We are mind, body and spirit. In the end, the physical and emotional hardship the author endures crystallizes his faith, compassion, and skill as a physician. The biographical accounts of those he cares for, and those he loves, provide an inspiring spectrum of genuine heroism, and a vision of what the ministry of medicine should be.

R. Elliot Willis attended a high school for gifted students, earned a bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry at Northwestern University, and then earned an MD at St. Louis’s Washington University School of Medicine. He is the Chief of Medical Oncology at Cancer Treatment Centers of America’s Hospital in Philadelphia.

List Price: $27.95 - Price: $25.15 - You Save: $2.80 (10%)

The Beauty Within
by Savannah J. Frierson
Lulu.com

When full-figured barber Tyler Carver enters GD Fitness for a personal training session, she immediately butts heads with her trainer Gunnar Daniels. Refusing to allow Mr. Just-Walked-off-an-Abercrombie-&-Fitch-Billboard's rudeness, she gives him a piece of her mind and storms off. Too bad she can't stop thinking about the gorgeous gray-eyed grump.

Former fashion model-turned-gym-owner Gunnar Daniels, having a day sent express from hell, thinks it can't get any worse until Tyler Carver, in all her curvy, chocolate glory, takes his breath away the moment he locks eyes with her. Knowing he acted out of character during their session, he apologizes to her. Yet, he wants so much more.

Can Tyler and Gunnar help each other discover that beauty is more than skin deep…that the beauty within is what truly decides the beauty without?

Praise for The Beauty Within
In THE BEAUTY WITHIN, Ms. Frierson has created real characters whose reactions to life, stress and trauma is reminiscent of real-life struggles. This is a story that many will be able to relate too as you run the gamut of emotions through the progression of this story.

THE BEAUTY WITHIN is a quick and enjoyable read. I would recommend giving a copy to the women you know who are having self-esteem issues, especially if they are weight related.

Reviewed by Marguerite for www.RomanceInColor.com

Author Bio
Savannah J. Frierson is a 2005 graduate of Harvard College with concentrations in African and African-American Studies, and English. Originally from Blythewood, SC, she currently lives in Somerville, MA where she works as a proofreader and freelance editor. She has been writing since she was twelve years old, and she released her debut novel Being Plumville in March 2007 with iUniverse, Inc; her second effort, the novella AJ's Serendipity in December 2007 with Lulu Press; and her third, the short story The Coach's Counselor in July 2008 with Red Rose Publishing, LLC. For more information about these and other titles, you can visit Savannah's Web site at http://www.sjfbooks.com and contact Savannah by e-mail at sfrierson@sjfbooks.com.

List Price: $16.95

Get Me Out of My Way!
by Dre McCray
Black Forest Press

Everyone has the innate ability to have ultimate success in life. Your experiences, choices and effort determine if you will attain that success. This book will help you discover who you are, what your strengths and weaknesses are and how to manage your weaknesses while capitalizing on your strengths.

This is not a step by step or principles book because quite frankly most of us already know the steps, habits and principles. It is a collection of insights that delves into the intricacies that hinders you from taking your life to its highest level.

A major reason people do not prosper in life is they make excuses and do not take responsibility for their choices. Mediocrity embraces people who abandon holding them selves accountable for their outcome.

The reason people do not take responsibility is that it is very painful to take a realistic look at oneself. The vast majority of people believe that they do not have any control over their circumstances and that they can not overcome their environment and experiences. So they use blame and excuses as a defense mechanism to protect them from the truth.

Utilizing real life practical examples this book takes you through the process of defining and overcoming the roadblocks to ultimate success in your life.

List price: $14.95

Loving Cee Cee Johnson
by Linda Leigh Hargrove
Moody Publishers

It’s been ten years since she moved away.

Carla Celine “Cee Cee” Johnson has been living a life of her own making. Success hasn’t come to her. She’s made it with her own sweat–and one big lie. But every lie has an end.

Shame had driven her away, prompted her to change her first name, and adopt a new hometown. Nothing good can come out of Pettigrew, at least that’s what Cee Cee, a successful journalist and reporter, thought.

Pettigrew loomed over her like a huge animal that would not go away. Now she must deal with her past as she returns home on an assignment.

Haunted by the traumatic events of her childhood, Cee Cee’s mask begins to crack as she uncovers family secrets and finds out what really happened the day her black Jesus figurine was thrown into the fire. Her faith is challenged as she discovers the truth about the militant black man, the white man who refused her plea for help, and the playwright who wants to tell the world about her past. From these men and her new friend Isaac Hunt, Cee Cee discovers what it means to listen, learn, love and…forgive.

List Price: $13.99 - Price: $11.89 - You Save: $2.10 (15%)

Linda Leigh Hargrove blends suspense, humor, and faith into compelling stories about race and class in America. Her writings include two novels: The Making of Isaac Hunt (June 2007) and Loving Cee Cee Johnson (September 2008). The former environmental engineer currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and three sons where she designs Web sites when she's not writing. She blogs at 17seeds.com. Visit her online at www.LLHargrove.com.

The Women of Nelson
by Shirley Hayden
SouthPaw Books

A footnote of history becomes a novel

What happens when libraries reserve dominion of a people’s local history that did not tell-it the history, or believe it, live or learn the history in the manner in which it is told? The Women of Nelson based upon a single a footnote from the Group 95 U.S. Colored Troops, an account of the women and children, is a fictional depiction of the forced removal of black soldiers' families from Camp Nelson in November 1864.

This novel is about how community memory is used as a primary source of information to document Sada Penn’s story. In The Women of Nelson, the main character disbelieves what she overhears her great-great-great-great-great-great grandmother recalling her forced evacuation as a child. The main character, Sada Maudie Penn Ezra Abraham Briggs (Sadie) named for her eldest grandmother (Sada Penn) and deceased father is required to research and record the family history for posterity.

At the intersection of this novel is the relationship of history and memory to highlight cultural traditions and individual and collective family identity as the way to give meaning to the past and hope for the future. By the end of the book, she is seeking an apology for that tragic loss of life. For more go to www.shirleyhayden.us

List price: $19.95