A Social Affair Blog Tour

Today, I’m hosting Pat Tucker’s A Social Affair Blog Tour. Normally, I interview the author. I decided to do something different this time. Pat is offering advice for online dating. I’m sure you’re wondering why? A Social Affair by Pat Tucker and Earl Sewell is about online dating and what could happen if you’re not careful.

About the book

Online dating is quickly becoming the norm...

In A social Affair (Atria Books/Strebor Books; Feb. 2013) readers get a glimpse into the ugly side of online dating, when two people meet on Facebook and create false personas. Their charade turns into a torrid love affair, but they neglect to tell each other they’re married in real life. Online dating statistics indicate more than 40 million people date online, despite the possible pitfalls involved, online dating continues to grow in popularity. Social Media sites like Facebook, and online dating sites such as, Match.com, and others, have become the new singles bars.

Online Dating Tips from Pat

If you’re a little uncomfortable with the idea of Internet dating, you may soon be counted in the minority. Online dating statistics indicate more than 40 million people date online, and the growing popularity of social media sites, and online dating sites, means the number of people logging on to find love will increase.

But if you plan to log on to try and find your soul mate, be warned, the Internet is packed with a lots of scam and fake people. Despite this reality, there are still a number of good ones you can meet online. Remember, most of us are horrible lie detectors in face-to-face interaction, so you can imagine, we're even worse when it comes to knowing whether someone is lying online.

Online dating may be worth a shot, but remember, it’s easy to be duped by online suitors, so here are some tips to make sure you do it right.

Do your homework: The internet makes it quick and easy to research anyone you’re interacting with online. Remember, real people have traceable footprints in cyberspace. If the online persona is the only thing available about this person, he/she may not exist.

Be realistic: Don’t allow your quest for a happily-ever-after, to dictate your expectations.

Commercials that depict smiling, married couples, who met online, are a sales pitch. Realize that there are tons of horror stories that end in tragedy and those are rarely broadcast to the masses. Limit the fantasy, and be realistic with your expectations.

Play it safe: Lead with your head instead of your heart. Keep the very rules that have guided you to love through-out the years close. Don’t allow this new setting to fool you into taking unnecessary risks, all of the same common-sense rules you've used in the past, should still apply.

Use common sense: Keep in mind that like in real life, online communities are not perfect. It’s easy to be duped by online suitors because online communities provide the perfect setting for anonymity, and that makes it easy for people to hide behind those perfect, unrealistic, personas.

Hang on to personal information: Regardless of the level of trust you think you've established, if you've never met this person in real life, you should avoid sharing personal information.   

Take it slow: If social media sites, and online dating sites are a new experience and you’re not cyber savvy, take it slow. This is not the time, nor place for spontaneity. Advances in technology have made it easy to get in touch, and stay in touch, but don’t allow that to force you to move at a rapid pace.

With heightened awareness, and caution, you can make sure your quest for love online doesn't become the stuff authors write about. Pat Tucker is the co-author of A Social Affair-the story of a couple who meets online and lie about being single in real life. The novel is available everywhere books are sold.

Pat is giving one lucky reader a copy of A Social Affair. To enter, you must post a comment here and sign up for Pat’s email mailing list by visiting www.authorpattucker.com.

Temptation Review

Today is the release of Temptation, Confessions of a Marriage Counselor by Tyler Perry. This is an explosive romance about forbidden desires.

I will admit that I was a little hesitant when I first heard that Tyler was turning another stage play into a movie. Why? Tyler has a hard time portraying a character other than his Madea. Let me explain that. In Why Did I Get Married…the argument that he and his wife had in the truck. His voice was completely Madea. So, I really didn’t want to hear that voice seep out. It’s really throws a monkey wrench in the storyline. Some may not have noticed and don’t really care. But, I did and I do.

Ok, enough about that. Let me get back to the point of this post…my review.

Other than the fact that Brandy’s bangs were an eye sore because of the unevenness and Kim K needing more acting classes (but, she did a good job), I really enjoyed it. The twist was very predictable. I picked up on immediately. Lance Goss can play the part of a crying young man to a tee. I really hope he gets more acting jobs where we’re able to see him playing a different role. Jurnee Smollett-Bell did a great job! Her character, Judith, who’s based on Judas, was every bit Judas. I had a thought at the beginning and it was confirmed at the end. If I had to decide which bare chest I loved better, Lance Goss or Robbie Jones, I have to go with Lance’s. Now, that’s my own personal opinion. As usual Vanessa Williams was Vanessa Williams. She knocked it out. There’s a scene between her and Jurnee Smollett-Bell when I hollered. I was glad to see Ella Joyce back in the game. It’s been awhile since we’ve seen her. Renée Taylor, who many may remember as Sylvia Fine from The Nanny was hilarious! Both men and women, because this story could have very well been Lance Goss being tempted, need to watch so that they’re reminded of what they need to do to keep their spouse happy. When they’re not happy at home, things look great to them. But, we know that everything that looks good isn’t. Don’t get caught up with some forbidden fruit. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Temptation. I give it a strong B+/A-. 

Spotlighting Patricia Enyi

Today, I sat down with author Patricia Enyi. Patricia is new to many readers. She's the author of the novel, The Prodigal Daughter. I hope you'll give her a try.

Hi Patricia, tell us a little about yourself.

Patricia: I was born in Nigeria, West Africa, but I came to the United Sates as a teenage and finished high school here.

YLG: How did you come up with the title The Prodigal Daughter? Tell our readers a little more about the book.

Patricia: The title took me a long time to come up with. Since I am now Catholic, I was not born Catholic, One day I heard Pope John Paul talking about Catholic Prodigals coming home again and there was my book title.

YLG: What message do you hope the readers will get from the story?

Patricia: The message in my book is about religious discrimination. That is discrimination with the body of Christ, the churches. This happens a lot in Nigeria and amongst Nigerians.

YLG: Have you written any other books? If so, what are the names and genres?

Patricia: Yes, I have written a children’s picture book and the title is Marcus The Magician.

YLG: Who’s your favorite author? What is it that really strikes you about their work?

Patricia: My favorite author is Chinua Achebe. I love his works because his books are not just for entertainment. You also learn something from reading them. His books make you think.

YLG: How can readers contact you?

Patricia: This email address Patricia.enyi@gmail.com

About the book

The Prodigal daughter follows the life of Loyce Amaechi, the eldest daughter of Nigerian Immigrant Hal Amaechi, until the age of twenty-nine years. In a society obsessed with sex, Loyce refused to have premarital sex. She wants to wait until her wedding night. But her friends would not hear of it. They want her to start having sex, like the rest of them. So, she is set up with Quintin Chisimdi on her eighteenth birthday introduce her to the pleasures of human sexuality.

It takes that one time meeting, for Loyce to fall head over heels in love with the handsome heat breaker.  He also, falls in love with her. But their joy soon turn to sorrow as Loyce’s parents believe that Catholics should marry only Catholics, and they refuse to let her marry Quintin.

Ten years went by and Loyce continues to pine for Quintin, and as her younger sisters marry, she starts to get desperate.  She soon finds love again, and Quintin reappears and changes all her plans. But she continues to plan her elaborate wedding with her fiancé, until both men confront her forcing her to make a very painful choice.

Thank you so much for this interview.

Thank you very much Yolanda. God bless you.

***Disclaimer: Please note, I haven’t read this book.***

The Rich Girls' Club Blog Tour

As you can see from the picture, Honey B's blog tour is this week. Honey B decided to visit my couch today. I’m extremely honored and excited to have her here today. Before I begin, let me give you a little information about Honey B. If you’re new to her and her books, I hope that after this interview you’ll give her a true. Sit back and enjoy the interview…don’t forget you Apple Martini.

Honey B is the pseudonym of New York Times bestselling writer Mary B. Morrison, author of If I Can’t Have You, The Eternal Engagement, Unconditionally Single, Sweeter Than Honey, Nothing Has Ever Felt Like This, Somebody’s Gotta Be On Top, He’s Just a Friend, Never Again Once More, and Soulmates Dissipate, which is being adapted into a move.

Through her explicit works, Honey B wants to pollinate all women with knowledge about sexuality and self-love and help them safely blossom into goddesses. She lives in Oakland, CA.

***I love how Honey B gives advice to women to help them bring their sexy back! She's the best with her BHONEST posts on Facebook.***

About the book

When money isn't enough for Brooks Kennedy, Morgan Childs, Storm Dangerfield, and Hope Andrews, the women decide to take over the governor's house in...

THE RICH GIRLS' CLUB

California has never had a female governor and Morgan Childs is determined to change that with the help of her friends. Gathering the backing of the wealthiest women in California, she convinces her best friend, Brooks Kennedy, to run for governor.

Morgan's campaign strategy is nontraditional, but she knows her plan to sexually blackmail each of Brooks's opponents is virtually foolproof. Once she convinces the team of her tactics, they do whatever it takes to get incriminating evidence on Brooks's opponents.

The Interview

YLG: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Honey B: I grew up poor in my hometown of New Orleans. My great aunt reared me. My school teachers inspired me. I can't remember a time when I didn't believe in myself. I know God watches over me. 

YLG: What do you do when you’re not writing?

Honey B: Travel. Enjoy time with family and friends. Travel. Live on Facebook and Twitter. I would say "freelance" meaning date whomever whenever but I recently committed to a wonderful Texas State Representative so I'm happily exclusive with this man.

YLG: Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?

Honey B: Terry McMillian's Mama self-published novel. Tyler Perry's movies and stage plays. I'm not a follower but when I see successful people doing what I want to do, "I know I can do it too."

YLG: Tell us more about The Rich Girl’s Club. How did you decide on this story line?

Honey B: Men aren't always as smart as they think they are. Many men undermine women, especially when it comes to sex and politics. I wanted to pen TRGC to show how women can outsmart and blackmail men. 

YLG: I always throw in an off the wall question. So Honey B, do you prefer fuzzy or tub socks?

Honey B: Definitely fuzzy. Soft is sensual even when it's not sexy but as long as it's not his . . .

You can visit her at www.MaryMorrison.com to learn more about her and her upcoming projects.

Twitter: marybmorrison

Facebook:Mary-Honey-B-Morrison

Meet Kennedee Devoe

Today, I introduce you to Kennedee Devoe. Kennedee is a very humble and down to earth person. I hope after learning more about Kennedee you’ll run over to Amazon or her website and purchase her book.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? I hold an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Studies, a Bachelors Degree in Business Management, and a Masters Degree in Human Services. I have worked for a variety of Parks and Recreations Departments, for-profits, and non-profits agencies. I currently work in the nonprofit sector as a Program Director.

Tell us about your current book. Two Wrongs Don’t Make a Right…It Makes Us Even is about a true life story. The title identifies how I was living my life at the time. I was trying to even the score with the men who had wronged me in relationships. In the midst of all the drama I learn a lot of life lessons.  

What do you do when you are not writing? I’ve been bowling since I was 7 years old. I would say I’m pretty good my average is 220. I’m also a mentor, and a party planner. I keep myself pretty busy.

When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book? I started writing poetry in high school. I also was the editor for my high school newspaper. It took me 4 years to write the book, because I was going to school for my master’s program while working a full time job.

How did you choose the genre you write in and what’s the genre? I decided on fiction even though it is an autobiography/memoir. I labeled the book as fiction to target a larger audience because the average Joe is totally clueless about Kennedee Devoe.

What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why? Chapter 12 and 15 are my favorite chapters, because those signify turning points in my life.

Do you write with an outline, or do you just write? No, I just write when my thoughts start coming. I go back in later to make changes in order for everything to flow together.

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? The most criticism that I have received is that people dumbfounded that I put my life out there for other to people to judge. Some people just can’t understand why I would do that. What has been the best compliment? That people see themselves in the book and the stories are relatable.

Are there certain characters you would like to go back to, or is there a theme or idea you’d love to work with? Not at this time. I’m on to my next project writing about my friendships I've acquired over the years the last 25 years. 

Do you have any upcoming events that you’ll like your readers to know? I will be coming to Newport News, Virginia on March 16, 2013 to discuss The Balance Between Men & Women at the Mulberry Inn. I have a book signing in my hometown of Carson, CA on March 23. I will be at the Las Vegas Jazz festival in April, and I have a lot more things coming up. I am very excited about all these new opportunities.

How can readers contact you?

My personal website www.kdevoe.com
www.facebook.com/kennedeedevoe
www.twitter.com./kennedeedevoe
www.amazon.com

I like to throw in one wacky question. J

Do you get road rage? Oh yes!!! My hand stays on the horn several times during the day. What pisses you off the most about other drivers? Letting everyone in front of them.

Meet AlTonya Washington

Today, I introduce you to AlTonya Washington. AlTonya is the author of twelve novels, three ebooks and one nonfiction ebook. After you read more about AlTonya, I hope you’ll support her and purchase her novels.

 Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? I wear many hats, daughter, sister, friend, significant other, librarian, author and most importantly MOM!!! Reading, writing, movie watching are a few of my favorite things- I love to cook- but rarely have the time to really get down with it anymore.

What do you do when you are not writing? Reading!! Going to the movies when I can. I spend a lot of time with my son-who I think will be a big movie buff. We adore the superhero genre (is that a genre?) At any rate, I love spending time with him and I just generally try anything that will help me relax my brain-these characters are always talking to me J

Do you ever experience writer’s block? (Thanking God and knocking on wood) No.

How did you choose the genre you write in and what’s the genre? I write in the romance genre (contemporary, historical and erotica). My reading tastes are expansive, but when I discovered the romance genre at age 13, I was hooked. After college, I realized I wanted more out of the romances I adored. I wanted more characters that looked like me. I couldn’t find them, so I decided to write my own.

Where do you get your ideas? From all over the place. I can hear a phrase that generates an entire idea. I was taking a drive last month and passed a row of trees planted in such a way they made this beautiful path along the interstate- I wondered about people who work in the logging and milling businesses and wondered what sort of family they’d be…got an idea for a possible saga later down the line…

Is anything in your books based on real life experiences or purely all imagination? No- so far it’s all imagination. Bits and pieces of characters mind sets and such may be based faintly on someone I know but that’s about as far as it has gone.

Which book did you enjoy the most writing and why? Wild Ravens. My first historical- until then, I had never read an historical featuring AA characters although I adore the historical romance genre. I had the best time researching and finding basis for the story I wanted to create. Setting the story in Haiti, Dominica, Cuba…it was wonderful discovering those places and crafting the characters there.

Did you have any challenges getting your first book published? Well I had no idea what I was doing. I sort of taught myself, researching for the best house to send it and then teaching myself the proper way to prepare a submission package. The waiting was a beast so that in itself was a major challenge. I wouldn’t trade that time for anything-I learned so much.

Tell us about your current novel? My most recent release is with my traditional publishing house Harlequin. I write for the Kimani Romance line and I’ve just released Provocative Territory which features Elias Joss and Clarissa David. Elias comes from a long line of playboys and Clarissa is the image of his father’s former mistress. Turns out that Clarissa is the woman’s niece. Elias is determined to fight his attraction for Clarissa, impossible when Elias’s construction company is handling the redesign the gentleman’s clubs owned by Clarissa’s aunt. Equally impossible when Elias can’t fight Clarissa’s alluring disposition and her effortless ability to intrigue him.

How can readers contact you? They can find me all over the place. Here are my Twitter, Facebook, GoodReads links and website address.

https://twitter.com/Ramseysgirl

https://www.facebook.com/altonyaw

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/337210.AlTonya_Washington

www.lovealtonya.com

I like to throw in one wacky question. J

Be honest how often do you wash your hair? Once a week. (I may skip a week if going to see my stylist!)

Meet Iris Bolling

 

Today, I introduce you to Iris Bolling. Iris is the author of nine novels. Iris was born in Richmond, Virginia, has a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management. For 25 years she has worked for the State of Virginia providing management, training, and professional development consultation for the state workforce.
In April of 2010 Iris was named Debut Author the Year, at the Romance Slam Jam conference. Her first novel, Once You've Touched the Heart has been nominated for the Readers Choice Award with Shades of Romance Magazine for, Romance Book of the Year and Self-Published Fiction Book of the Year. Iris Bolling had been nominated for New Author of The Year, Self-Published Author of the Year, Romance Author of the Year and Author of the Year. I hope after learning more about Iris, you'll add her to your bookshelf, Kindle, Nook, iPad or any other e-reader.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Professionally I’m a trainer. I teach and develop the employee workforce for an agency. I’m also an author (I love saying that). Personally, I’m a happy woman with a man I love very much. A son who makes me proud to be a mother and several nieces and nephews I play mother too. I will tell anyone that asks, I’m not perfect but I’m the best me I can be. I love to smile and make others smile. Oh, I can’t dance.

Tell us about your current book.

My current novel The Pendleton Rule, is about an entertainment Agent who lost the love of his life due to fear of commitment issues. When her life is threatened, he becomes involved in a chase for an assassin. He then becomes the target. To protect both of them he elicits an intriguing group of friends, who bring a lot of action to add to the drama between him and his lady love.

What do you do when you are not writing?

Spend time with my family who patiently listen to my story ideas, cook, clean and feed me when I’m in my writing zone. I love watching sports, baseball, football, and basketball. My favorite pastime is reading.

When did you first start writing and when did you finish your first book?

I began writing in 2007 and published my first novel, Once You've Touched The Heart, in 2008.

How did you choose the genre you write in and what’s the genre?

That was easy, Romance - Suspenseful Romance. I love being in love and seeing others in love.

Where do you get your ideas?

Most of my novels touch on community or social issues, such as politics, education, and most of all family. Ideas come from music, a news article or a family story told by my elders.

When you wrote Once You've Touched The Heart, did you have any intentions of turning it into a series?

No, Once You've Touched The Heart was originally one book. It was over eight hundred pages long. I still laugh about that original document. I took the story, added a few more characters and it ended up being a six book series.

Do you write with an outline, or do you just write?

I just write. Outlines limit me to that idea. When I’m writing, I want an open slate.It gives even me, the write the element of surprise because I never know where the characters might lead me.

Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards or your slippers on and when realizing it, said forget it?

LOL! No, however, I did go out once when socks fell out of my pants. I was at an event, when one of my friends called out, “Hey Iris, you dropped something.” I looked back and my girlfriends was standing there with one of my socks in her hand, laughing. Thank goodness it was clean and not underwear.

How can readers contact you?

Reader can reach me at:

Email: irisb@sirient.com

Website: www.irisbolling.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Iris-Bolling

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Siriaustin