Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin is dead. Associated Press reports that he died of a wound to the chest by a stingray, while diving. Sad, I'm gonna miss him.
Someone stole Iraq's best soccer player. Why?
God bless the families in Russia who has lost their loved ones in the terrorist assault in a school.
God bless the 6 souls that died in a Chicago fire because they didn't have electricity so they used candles for light. The house caught on fire. Victims were children ranges in ages from 3-16. God bless the family. There were three survivors.
ABU RANA, terrorist leader was captured and he's singing like a bird! It's amazing how these monsters are so dreadful and dangerous, until they are caught. Then they become punks.
Lea
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
IN THE NEWS
I Pray that they catch the killer of the little angel, Jon Benet Ramsey. She deserves to have her murder solved.
I am however bugged that the media is doing so much coverage on her, God rest her soul, and the pervert claiming to have killed her, and not on pressing issues, like Iran's giving the middle finger to the U.N. about creating a nuclear weapon. Or the fact that Russia and China are basically saying 'What's the big deal? Let them make a Nuclear bomb.'
Or how about the media covering stories about how we are suppose to handle military persons forced to do their 3rd, 4th, and 5th tour in Iraq? Or the batallions who were scheduled to come home this week, but were just told that they have to stay at least 4 more months!!! Why isn't the media addressing the long term psychological impact that this will make.
Ohhh got one for ya: How about the media focusing on the academic achievements of young students today? Children are doing better in school.
Or the media can report on how to save money during this sluggish economy.
And if you want to be a victim's advocate, how about the media focus's some of it's attention on this nutjob Karr, and redirect it on a little brown, black, or Asian child that is missing, or dead and need media coverage to solve it's case before it becomes cold. Or to reopen it w/ new clues if it is.
But then, I may be asking too much.
Lea
I am however bugged that the media is doing so much coverage on her, God rest her soul, and the pervert claiming to have killed her, and not on pressing issues, like Iran's giving the middle finger to the U.N. about creating a nuclear weapon. Or the fact that Russia and China are basically saying 'What's the big deal? Let them make a Nuclear bomb.'
Or how about the media covering stories about how we are suppose to handle military persons forced to do their 3rd, 4th, and 5th tour in Iraq? Or the batallions who were scheduled to come home this week, but were just told that they have to stay at least 4 more months!!! Why isn't the media addressing the long term psychological impact that this will make.
Ohhh got one for ya: How about the media focusing on the academic achievements of young students today? Children are doing better in school.
Or the media can report on how to save money during this sluggish economy.
And if you want to be a victim's advocate, how about the media focus's some of it's attention on this nutjob Karr, and redirect it on a little brown, black, or Asian child that is missing, or dead and need media coverage to solve it's case before it becomes cold. Or to reopen it w/ new clues if it is.
But then, I may be asking too much.
Lea
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
THADIUS
I have to say, BellSouth has the best customer service I've ever used, hands down. So I was complaining about something(really can't remember), and this guy, actually, his name is Thadius, from Bellsouth, helped me with not just my problem, but with another problem that I was having, all the while he was really curtious.
So, I want to take this time out to say "Thanks Thad", you've done well.
Lea
So, I want to take this time out to say "Thanks Thad", you've done well.
Lea
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
BACK TO SCHOOL
School is now back in session and I am sooo excited! I've made it through another summer, Praise the Lord!
Now, this wouldn't be a typical L.T. blog with out mentioning some of the things that I've observed that has bothered me.
J1, my eldest daughter, is in the 8th grade. That's middle school. Middle school doesn't look the same since I've entered middle school over 2 decades ago(sheesh, has it been that long?)
These days, they have, amazon's and linebackers, in the 6th,7th, and 8th graders. It has to be something in the water.
Also, a lot of these young boys and girls have a blatant disrespect for themselves and others. They curse like sailors(I know, I was in the Navy)and a lot of them are just very obnoxious. (And she goes to an excellent middle school academically).
As I'm looking around the middle school, I notice a lot of young girls in the office. No need to explains why, it's obvious. They are in violation of the shcool's dress code. Young girls who think it's appropriate to come to school with skirts so short they look like belts!
Now, I don't blame the children, they are, after all, children. I blame the parents for buying these items. Maybe I wouldn't be so peeved if the kids looked destitute. You know, the theory: They have nothing else to wear.
No! These girls were shiny and new.
Now, being a mother of 3, I can't play ignorant to what's going on. I just wondered when parents stop being the ones in control and started becoming servants to the demands of our precious children?
Holla back,
Lea
Now, this wouldn't be a typical L.T. blog with out mentioning some of the things that I've observed that has bothered me.
J1, my eldest daughter, is in the 8th grade. That's middle school. Middle school doesn't look the same since I've entered middle school over 2 decades ago(sheesh, has it been that long?)
These days, they have, amazon's and linebackers, in the 6th,7th, and 8th graders. It has to be something in the water.
Also, a lot of these young boys and girls have a blatant disrespect for themselves and others. They curse like sailors(I know, I was in the Navy)and a lot of them are just very obnoxious. (And she goes to an excellent middle school academically).
As I'm looking around the middle school, I notice a lot of young girls in the office. No need to explains why, it's obvious. They are in violation of the shcool's dress code. Young girls who think it's appropriate to come to school with skirts so short they look like belts!
Now, I don't blame the children, they are, after all, children. I blame the parents for buying these items. Maybe I wouldn't be so peeved if the kids looked destitute. You know, the theory: They have nothing else to wear.
No! These girls were shiny and new.
Now, being a mother of 3, I can't play ignorant to what's going on. I just wondered when parents stop being the ones in control and started becoming servants to the demands of our precious children?
Holla back,
Lea
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
LANCE BASS
Lance Bass former member of the boy band "NSYNC" has announced that he's gay and in a good relationship. Is anyone surprised by this news? Are we as a society so far behind that individuals has to deny who they really are to appease us into buying what they are selling? I don't think so. However, I maybe wrong about this, because I am one of these individuals who believe that racism still exits in America and especially in the world.
But Whoo is me. Good luck Lance, I hope the best for ya.
Lea
But Whoo is me. Good luck Lance, I hope the best for ya.
Lea
Monday, July 10, 2006
UPDATES
My contest is now closed, however, I want to take this time to thank each individual for taking the time out to submit. Shiree McCarver is our winner.Congrats Ree. The new name is: For The Love of Kira.
Now, my new book, Jinger with a "J" is coming soon. My favorite cover artist inspired it, so thanks Jinger. Also, instead of a Prelude to the book, I've created an online diary for Jinger which will lead up to the book.
http://jingers-diary.blogspot.com
Come and check it out.
Lea
Now, my new book, Jinger with a "J" is coming soon. My favorite cover artist inspired it, so thanks Jinger. Also, instead of a Prelude to the book, I've created an online diary for Jinger which will lead up to the book.
http://jingers-diary.blogspot.com
Come and check it out.
Lea
Sunday, June 25, 2006
*CONTEST*
I'm in need of a name for my book and I need your help. I'll be
taking suggestions of names for my upcoming book currently titled
Reunited(i'm cringing w/you about the name). I needed to go to
contract so I picked something real quick. I'll change the book name,
but I need your help. I'll be accepting name entry's today for my
yahoo members, next week for the public. I'll narrow the selection
down to 5 titles. The five individuals picked will have the title's
they've suggest posted for the group to vote on, July 2. The polls
will close July 5. The winner will receive a Mary Kay for Him basket,
and other goodies worth at least $80.
So, tell your friends, bring your man, and enter to win.
Good luck and happy reading.
Blurb:
After Leslie finds out that a sexual predator her daughter had met
online was stalking her Kira(her daughter), Leslie decides to enlist
the help of the only man who can help protect her daughter: Antoine
Mardrice, her daughter's father.
Antoine is rich, handsome and single. His life was uncomplicated
until his mortal enemy strutted into his office needing his help
protecting a child she claims is his. Now his seemly uncomplicated
life is very complicated, thanks again to Leslie.
Lies broke them up, but will the need to keep their child safe be the
push Leslie and Antoine need to bring them back together?
CHAPTER ONE
Antoine sat the phone back on its cradle and cursed; another damned
rejection from Nina. He didn't know why he was so determined to get
her, since it was apparent that her only interest in him was his
merchandise, and nothing else. From what he'd heard, and witnessed
for himself, her boss Adrian Constantine was the only person she was
interested in. Damn shame.
He buzzed his secretary. "Daisy, can you give me Nina James' number.
Not the one at Constantine Inc. I need her personal cell-phone
number."
"It'll take me a minute; however, you have a Ms. Jackson here to see
you."
"Who?" He asked annoyed. He knew in his gut that the person that
Daisy was going to name was the woman who was responsible for his
mistrust in women. Actually, that she-devil didn't deserve the title
woman; `Bitch' was a better description of her.
"I don't know of a Ms. Jackson. At any rate, I am busy. Tell her to
make an appointment, preferably with someone else; a junior salesman
maybe." He stated in short, clipped words, clearly annoyed by the
interruption.
Daisy looked at the woman and what had to be her daughter, and her
boss' and decided to make a judgement call.
"Antoine, I think you better make time for this one. Clear whatever
you have scheduled, and see Ms. Jackson immediately. As a matter of
fact, I'm sending her in right now."
"Daisy! I said that I don't have time for…." He was cut off with a
loud buzzing sound.
"Right through that door Ma'am. Wait here with me, Sweetheart." Daisy
said to the young lady accompanying the woman. She knew that whatever
information her boss was about to receive was going to be a shock to
him and this young lady didn't need to be witness to it.
"Thank you." Her mother said and went into the office, closing the
door behind her.
* * * * *
Antoine hadn't had time to respond to Daisy before the object of his
nightmares walked into his office. The she-devil was even more
enticing at thirty-three than she had been at age seventeen. He had
often dreamt of the day that he'd meet up with her again—preferable
at a function where he was donating money to someone less fortunate,
and she was the recipient. He would then make her squirm for the
money that she needed, while he smiled at her misfortune. Shame, she
didn't look destitute. In his fantasy she was fat with about six kids
surrounding her and one hanging from her sagging breast.
How far from accurate was he. The object of his hate was about five
foot six inches of curves. Her sheer cream top was open in the front
exposing creamy golden skin and full breasts that were firm and
supple enough to entice without the aid of a bra. A thick black belt
held the garment closed, while long beaded necklaces hung loosely
around her chest area, keeping her from exposing too much skin. She
wore green knee high baggy cargo pants that clung to her narrow hips,
leaving a space between the hem of her shirt and the top portion of
her pants, to expose a small waist, and a tone, flat abdomen. Looking
further down her body, he took note of long slim legs, which seemed
to go on forever. She wore green beaded high-heeled open toed sandals
that laced up to her muscular calves, making her ankle look delicate
and alluring. Even her toe were sexy, she wore an American manicure
with the tips painted black with diamond studs on them. He knew that
when he made love to her again, he would pay special detail to her
feet. Shaking his head, he looked up into her big golden brown eyes.
"Now I have to say, I am completely surprised by your visit. What do
you want?" He asked, looking her up and down, not even extending the
courtesy of asking her to take a seat, or even standing to welcome
her in. He just sat back comfortably in his desk and assessed her
openly.
"I need your help." She was saying, however he was watching her full
luscious lips move instead of concentrating on what the mouth was
saying.
He shifted in his seat, suddenly uncomfortable at the direction in
which his thoughts were taking him. Lust. This bitch was walking
lust, and he, being a red-blooded male, was not immune to her charms.
"Are you listening to me?" Leslie asked, her eyes bore into his and
her voice rose in volume.
She was standing with one leg out and her hands on her hips. She
sure looked irked, but he didn't give a damn. She had her nerve,
coming into his office, looking like a golden goddess, asking him for
a favor, when he was certain she was the devil in the flesh.
"No, I wasn't listening to you. I was wondering why you've decided to
dye your hair blonde, after stating that black women shouldn't wear
such a hideous color. But I guess that was one of your lies too?"
"I'm not here about my hair color, Antoine. I need your help, and at
this point, I'd do anything to get it, even endure your insults.
However, I'll ask that you save them until you've heard my dilemma."
He noticed how she shifted the weight of her legs, and the balling up
of her fists at her sides as she stood there.
He thought she looked ready for battle, and in a sense he guessed
that she was.
"As much as I am enjoying this here moment…" Antoine stood up and
moved past her toward the door, "I have to stop you before you
humiliate yourself any further. It would take an act of God to get me
to help you. Actually, I wouldn't piss on you if you were on fire;
much less grant you a favor. Now get out, I have more pressing issues
to attend to." He opened the door, signaling for her to leave. She
moved towards the door and closed it, standing face to face with him.
"I'm not going anywhere. You will hear me out and you will help me."
She looked right into his eyes challenging him. "And for the record,
I wouldn't ask you to piss on me for any reason, much less if I were
on fire. You've pissed on me enough during our relationship. Now, I
have a problem. A sexual predator my daughter met online is stalking
her."
Rolling his eyes, he tried to open the door, but her foot blocked
it. "Although I am sorry to hear this, I still refuse to help you.
How about seeking out the help of the police, or better yet, the
girl's father, if you know who he is. Now move." He attempted to open
the door again.
"I've tried the legal system, but he's too powerful to beat by
myself; and I am asking her father for help… You." Leslie looked him
dead in the eye as she dropped her proverbial bomb.
Tugging her away from the door in anger, he opened it and shoved her
out of the door.
"Get the hell out of my office and don't come back…" His word trailed
off when he saw the young woman near his secretary. She had long
brown hair, "good hair" his mother would have called it, a wave of
curls cascading past her shoulders. Her skin complexion was her
mother's, light skinned, with a honey yellow hew to it. But it was
her large green gaze that signified that she was his daughter.
Although brighter than his own hazel gaze, she had eyes just like his
mother, brother and sister. Then he remembered again, just like his
brother's eyes. She looked just like his family members.
"Daisy, get my brother in here pronto." He grabbed Leslie by the arm
back inside his office and closed the door.
"So what's your game plan?" He asked accusingly. "You know that my
brother is married with children, so you pin this child on me? Jesus,
Leslie, how old is she?" He held is head down and closed his eyes,
shutting out the loud roaring going on in his head, willing the anger
that was threatening to explode to calm down. He heard his brother in
the lobby talking in that high-pitched voice he got whenever he was
nervous. He must have seen the girl.
Antoine opened the door. "Get your ass in here. Norman." His brother,
ready to lie, started to explain. "I have no idea…" His words trailed
off, relief in his face when he saw Leslie. "Thank you, Jesus." He
prayed, constructing an air cross with his fingers. "Leslie. How are
you doing? You are looking good, girl. That's your daughter in the
lobby?" He asked, sighing heavily.
"I take it you've seen the girl in the lobby." Antoine said as
agitation dripped from his every word.
"Yeah, she looks just like our family bro. It's no denying that one."
Norman gave him a sympathetic smile.
"So what are you going to tell your wife?"
"That she's an aunt. I can't imagine her being upset by the prospect
of you fathering a child. I know you've always promised to leave the
company to the boys in case you didn't have any children of your own,
but you don't have to worry about the twin's future, they're set."
"No you idiot, you're the father of the girl out there! You and
Leslie have a child. What will you tell your wife about that child?"
Antoine gritted his teeth as he said the words.
A sickening look came over Norman's face and he took an aggressive
stance. "Did she tell you that?" He accused, looking from Antoine and
back to Leslie.
"No I –" He didn't let her finish her statement.
"Because I never had sex with her!"
"What do you mean you've `never had sex with her? You swore to me on
your honor that you and she had sex together, and you begged me to
forgive you." Antoine's fists clenched, he was ready for a fight. He
wanted to wake up from this nightmare that was threatening to steal
his sanity every second he was in it.
"I lied when I said that I slept with Leslie, and so did Eric and
David. We thought that we could split you two up by telling you that
we all had sex with her in order to get you to go to college in State
rather than follow her to San Diego. We couldn't risk you leaving.
I'm sorry for all of the trouble our lie caused." Norman looked at
his brother and then at Leslie.
"Get the fuck out. I'll deal with you later." Antoine gave his
brother an icy stair.
"I'm truly—" Norman started.
"Out!" Antoine yelled. He slumped down in his chair wishing he had
something strong to drink.
"I really don't know what to say." He started.
"I'm not expecting you to say anything except you'll help me keep my
daughter safe. Please." She came over to sit down in the chair front
of his desk.
"I'll need a DNA to confirm that she is mine, without question,
however, in light of the current information, I'll help you."
"Thank you." Leslie closed her eyes in relief.
"Now I need to know what happened, but before I do that, I want to
meet my daughter." He buzzed Daisy's desk.
"Daisy, send in…" He paused mid sentence realizing that he didn't
know his daughter's name. `What's her name?'" He whispered to Leslie.
"Kira." She supplied, he raised an eyebrow and repeated the
name. "Kira."
Letting go of the button, Antoine held his breath as the statuesque
beauty regally walked into his office. He stood up and walked over to
the nervous teen. He embraced her, relishing in the warmth of her
hugs. It dawned on him at that moment. He had a daughter.
* * * * *
Leslie watched as father and daughter hugged for the first time.
Because of everything that she had gone through after Antoine's
desertion, she dreaded this day happening. However, if she was honest
with herself, she'd admit that maybe it wasn't a good idea keeping
Kira from him. For the past few years, Kira has asked excessively
about her father. Leslie tried to appease her curiosity with all of
the information that she could about Antoine, without being bitter.
She explained to Kira that her father was a nice man who was kind
enough to donate the sperm it took to make a baby, and that to
intrude on his life saying "Hi dad, I'm home" was unfair to him.
Leslie hadn't realized how much her daughter had missed having a
father. A few months ago, Kira started conversation on the Internet.
Leslie thought that it was harmless until it started becoming a real
problem. Kira started missing gymnastics classes, and cheerleading
practices. She started living in her room, always on the computer, so
one day while Kira was at school, she logged onto her computer and
found some disturbing correspondence between Kira and some pervert
logging on as silver_fox057. Leslie was alarmed by his login, so she
started to investigate. The idiot posted a picture of a young man,
however after reading all of the correspondence between the man and
her daughter, she was able to extract some clues as to the man's
identity. She was horrified at her discovery.
This Logan Hudson guy gained her email address through a common
website page popular to teens and young adults now a days. There, he
began to chat with her, using the information that Kira had made
public. She was appalled at how vulnerable her daughter had made
herself right on the Internet. The conversations started out innocent
enough. Questions about home and school. Then it progressed to
boyfriends and school activities. And ultimately it ended with
the "perv" asking for sex and pics. She was shocked at how this
stranger was able to tap into her daughter's needs and exploit them
to his convince. She never realized that by denying Kira an
opportunity to know her father, it was opening a door for predators
to come in. Hell, Kira probably would have been better off with any
strong male role model rather than none at all. It was definitely a
big mistake to have kept her from her father, she was sure of that.
She was afraid that by allowing a man into her home it would open up
an opportunity for Kira to be violated, the way she had once been
violated.
Leslie was so deep in her thoughts, she hadn't realized that
her daughter had come to sit down by her, and Antoine was back at his
desk barking orders to his secretary.
"Daisy. Reschedule everything I have for next week. Let my brother
know that he has the helm today." He then hung up the phone.
"Now tell me exactly what is going on with my daughter, and I want to
know everything."
* * * *
"It all started about six months ago. I was interested in a
boy from my school. Since I'm not allowed to date" Kira rolled her
eyes at her mother, who gave her a stern look back, she continued her
story. " I started chatting online with this boy from my school.
Everything was going fine until he wanted to take the relationship
past the `let's meet at lunch, and let's talk on the computer' phase.
I knew that Mom would be virtually impossible to fool when it came
down to sneaking out and cutting school, and since I go to a strict
Christian School where boy/girl fraternization is a big `no no'; he
broke it off with me. I started to feel really depressed when I
received an email from his father telling me what a jerk Avery had
been for breaking up with me." She paused for a minute and closed her
eyes as the tears fell down her pretty oval face. "It started out
innocently enough. He was very friendly. I was even considering
introducing him to Mom. He told me that it wasn't a good idea and
that he wasn't over his late wife and that no one would find an ugly
old man like himself attractive. I asked him to send me a picture of
himself and he did. He wasn't bad looking and I told him so. He
confided in me that I was a breath of fresh air, and that I seemed
really mature for my age and that's probably why Avery couldn't
handle a woman like myself." Kira started to break down crying again,
and both Leslie and Antoine went over and hugged her.
"Look, this is upsetting her, and it's pretty graphic. Antoine get me
a piece of paper and a pencil, I'll give you access to her email
account." He did, and for the next hour and a half he read the
graphic emails and looked at graphic photos.
"So let me get this straight." Antoine said in a murderous
tone. "After you reported this pervert to the authorities, he was
sentenced to four months in jail. He gets out and begins to stalk
her! His son assaults her and gets sentenced to counseling!" The rage
was building up further and Antoine struggled to keep a lid on his
anger. "So he begins to stalk her, taking pictures of her in her bed
room, at the pool, and at cheerleading practice, threatening to post
it on the Internet!"
"Yes."
"And the police says what about this?"
"Logan Hudson is the son of a prominent retired attorney in our city.
After his arrest and release, he was able to disappear, except he
manages to get in contact with Kira and he's near because he's taking
recent photos. I've taken out a restraining order against him, but
nothing seems to deter him. He believes that Kira is his `soul mate'
and he'll stop at nothing to get to her, and that includes seeing me
dead."
There was a brief silence over the room.
"Is there a chance that you've been followed by him?"
"No, I don't think so. I've been using cash, and I drove down here
from California. I'm sure that he doesn't know we've gone yet. Why?"
"I want to talk with you alone. I'm sure Kira is hungry, so I'm going
to send her out with Daisy; I need to make sure she's not in any
danger. This building has a restaurant on the bottom floor." Antoine
stood up and buzzed Daisy again. She agreed to take Kira to the
restaurant to grab a bite to eat. What he needed to talk to Leslie
alone.
"How far are you willing to go to protect our daughter?"
Antoine asked Leslie as he closed the door behind Kira. He walked
over to her with panther like movement, leaning in close to her face.
"I am willing to do anything to keep my daughter safe. Getting in
contact with you should be a testament of how far I am willing to go
to ensuring her safety." Leslie was still feeling salty after all
these years of feeling betrayed by him, and she wanted him to feel
her anger, or so he reasoned.
"Good, because I plan on making you my wife, and having you move in
with me."
taking suggestions of names for my upcoming book currently titled
Reunited(i'm cringing w/you about the name). I needed to go to
contract so I picked something real quick. I'll change the book name,
but I need your help. I'll be accepting name entry's today for my
yahoo members, next week for the public. I'll narrow the selection
down to 5 titles. The five individuals picked will have the title's
they've suggest posted for the group to vote on, July 2. The polls
will close July 5. The winner will receive a Mary Kay for Him basket,
and other goodies worth at least $80.
So, tell your friends, bring your man, and enter to win.
Good luck and happy reading.
Blurb:
After Leslie finds out that a sexual predator her daughter had met
online was stalking her Kira(her daughter), Leslie decides to enlist
the help of the only man who can help protect her daughter: Antoine
Mardrice, her daughter's father.
Antoine is rich, handsome and single. His life was uncomplicated
until his mortal enemy strutted into his office needing his help
protecting a child she claims is his. Now his seemly uncomplicated
life is very complicated, thanks again to Leslie.
Lies broke them up, but will the need to keep their child safe be the
push Leslie and Antoine need to bring them back together?
CHAPTER ONE
Antoine sat the phone back on its cradle and cursed; another damned
rejection from Nina. He didn't know why he was so determined to get
her, since it was apparent that her only interest in him was his
merchandise, and nothing else. From what he'd heard, and witnessed
for himself, her boss Adrian Constantine was the only person she was
interested in. Damn shame.
He buzzed his secretary. "Daisy, can you give me Nina James' number.
Not the one at Constantine Inc. I need her personal cell-phone
number."
"It'll take me a minute; however, you have a Ms. Jackson here to see
you."
"Who?" He asked annoyed. He knew in his gut that the person that
Daisy was going to name was the woman who was responsible for his
mistrust in women. Actually, that she-devil didn't deserve the title
woman; `Bitch' was a better description of her.
"I don't know of a Ms. Jackson. At any rate, I am busy. Tell her to
make an appointment, preferably with someone else; a junior salesman
maybe." He stated in short, clipped words, clearly annoyed by the
interruption.
Daisy looked at the woman and what had to be her daughter, and her
boss' and decided to make a judgement call.
"Antoine, I think you better make time for this one. Clear whatever
you have scheduled, and see Ms. Jackson immediately. As a matter of
fact, I'm sending her in right now."
"Daisy! I said that I don't have time for…." He was cut off with a
loud buzzing sound.
"Right through that door Ma'am. Wait here with me, Sweetheart." Daisy
said to the young lady accompanying the woman. She knew that whatever
information her boss was about to receive was going to be a shock to
him and this young lady didn't need to be witness to it.
"Thank you." Her mother said and went into the office, closing the
door behind her.
* * * * *
Antoine hadn't had time to respond to Daisy before the object of his
nightmares walked into his office. The she-devil was even more
enticing at thirty-three than she had been at age seventeen. He had
often dreamt of the day that he'd meet up with her again—preferable
at a function where he was donating money to someone less fortunate,
and she was the recipient. He would then make her squirm for the
money that she needed, while he smiled at her misfortune. Shame, she
didn't look destitute. In his fantasy she was fat with about six kids
surrounding her and one hanging from her sagging breast.
How far from accurate was he. The object of his hate was about five
foot six inches of curves. Her sheer cream top was open in the front
exposing creamy golden skin and full breasts that were firm and
supple enough to entice without the aid of a bra. A thick black belt
held the garment closed, while long beaded necklaces hung loosely
around her chest area, keeping her from exposing too much skin. She
wore green knee high baggy cargo pants that clung to her narrow hips,
leaving a space between the hem of her shirt and the top portion of
her pants, to expose a small waist, and a tone, flat abdomen. Looking
further down her body, he took note of long slim legs, which seemed
to go on forever. She wore green beaded high-heeled open toed sandals
that laced up to her muscular calves, making her ankle look delicate
and alluring. Even her toe were sexy, she wore an American manicure
with the tips painted black with diamond studs on them. He knew that
when he made love to her again, he would pay special detail to her
feet. Shaking his head, he looked up into her big golden brown eyes.
"Now I have to say, I am completely surprised by your visit. What do
you want?" He asked, looking her up and down, not even extending the
courtesy of asking her to take a seat, or even standing to welcome
her in. He just sat back comfortably in his desk and assessed her
openly.
"I need your help." She was saying, however he was watching her full
luscious lips move instead of concentrating on what the mouth was
saying.
He shifted in his seat, suddenly uncomfortable at the direction in
which his thoughts were taking him. Lust. This bitch was walking
lust, and he, being a red-blooded male, was not immune to her charms.
"Are you listening to me?" Leslie asked, her eyes bore into his and
her voice rose in volume.
She was standing with one leg out and her hands on her hips. She
sure looked irked, but he didn't give a damn. She had her nerve,
coming into his office, looking like a golden goddess, asking him for
a favor, when he was certain she was the devil in the flesh.
"No, I wasn't listening to you. I was wondering why you've decided to
dye your hair blonde, after stating that black women shouldn't wear
such a hideous color. But I guess that was one of your lies too?"
"I'm not here about my hair color, Antoine. I need your help, and at
this point, I'd do anything to get it, even endure your insults.
However, I'll ask that you save them until you've heard my dilemma."
He noticed how she shifted the weight of her legs, and the balling up
of her fists at her sides as she stood there.
He thought she looked ready for battle, and in a sense he guessed
that she was.
"As much as I am enjoying this here moment…" Antoine stood up and
moved past her toward the door, "I have to stop you before you
humiliate yourself any further. It would take an act of God to get me
to help you. Actually, I wouldn't piss on you if you were on fire;
much less grant you a favor. Now get out, I have more pressing issues
to attend to." He opened the door, signaling for her to leave. She
moved towards the door and closed it, standing face to face with him.
"I'm not going anywhere. You will hear me out and you will help me."
She looked right into his eyes challenging him. "And for the record,
I wouldn't ask you to piss on me for any reason, much less if I were
on fire. You've pissed on me enough during our relationship. Now, I
have a problem. A sexual predator my daughter met online is stalking
her."
Rolling his eyes, he tried to open the door, but her foot blocked
it. "Although I am sorry to hear this, I still refuse to help you.
How about seeking out the help of the police, or better yet, the
girl's father, if you know who he is. Now move." He attempted to open
the door again.
"I've tried the legal system, but he's too powerful to beat by
myself; and I am asking her father for help… You." Leslie looked him
dead in the eye as she dropped her proverbial bomb.
Tugging her away from the door in anger, he opened it and shoved her
out of the door.
"Get the hell out of my office and don't come back…" His word trailed
off when he saw the young woman near his secretary. She had long
brown hair, "good hair" his mother would have called it, a wave of
curls cascading past her shoulders. Her skin complexion was her
mother's, light skinned, with a honey yellow hew to it. But it was
her large green gaze that signified that she was his daughter.
Although brighter than his own hazel gaze, she had eyes just like his
mother, brother and sister. Then he remembered again, just like his
brother's eyes. She looked just like his family members.
"Daisy, get my brother in here pronto." He grabbed Leslie by the arm
back inside his office and closed the door.
"So what's your game plan?" He asked accusingly. "You know that my
brother is married with children, so you pin this child on me? Jesus,
Leslie, how old is she?" He held is head down and closed his eyes,
shutting out the loud roaring going on in his head, willing the anger
that was threatening to explode to calm down. He heard his brother in
the lobby talking in that high-pitched voice he got whenever he was
nervous. He must have seen the girl.
Antoine opened the door. "Get your ass in here. Norman." His brother,
ready to lie, started to explain. "I have no idea…" His words trailed
off, relief in his face when he saw Leslie. "Thank you, Jesus." He
prayed, constructing an air cross with his fingers. "Leslie. How are
you doing? You are looking good, girl. That's your daughter in the
lobby?" He asked, sighing heavily.
"I take it you've seen the girl in the lobby." Antoine said as
agitation dripped from his every word.
"Yeah, she looks just like our family bro. It's no denying that one."
Norman gave him a sympathetic smile.
"So what are you going to tell your wife?"
"That she's an aunt. I can't imagine her being upset by the prospect
of you fathering a child. I know you've always promised to leave the
company to the boys in case you didn't have any children of your own,
but you don't have to worry about the twin's future, they're set."
"No you idiot, you're the father of the girl out there! You and
Leslie have a child. What will you tell your wife about that child?"
Antoine gritted his teeth as he said the words.
A sickening look came over Norman's face and he took an aggressive
stance. "Did she tell you that?" He accused, looking from Antoine and
back to Leslie.
"No I –" He didn't let her finish her statement.
"Because I never had sex with her!"
"What do you mean you've `never had sex with her? You swore to me on
your honor that you and she had sex together, and you begged me to
forgive you." Antoine's fists clenched, he was ready for a fight. He
wanted to wake up from this nightmare that was threatening to steal
his sanity every second he was in it.
"I lied when I said that I slept with Leslie, and so did Eric and
David. We thought that we could split you two up by telling you that
we all had sex with her in order to get you to go to college in State
rather than follow her to San Diego. We couldn't risk you leaving.
I'm sorry for all of the trouble our lie caused." Norman looked at
his brother and then at Leslie.
"Get the fuck out. I'll deal with you later." Antoine gave his
brother an icy stair.
"I'm truly—" Norman started.
"Out!" Antoine yelled. He slumped down in his chair wishing he had
something strong to drink.
"I really don't know what to say." He started.
"I'm not expecting you to say anything except you'll help me keep my
daughter safe. Please." She came over to sit down in the chair front
of his desk.
"I'll need a DNA to confirm that she is mine, without question,
however, in light of the current information, I'll help you."
"Thank you." Leslie closed her eyes in relief.
"Now I need to know what happened, but before I do that, I want to
meet my daughter." He buzzed Daisy's desk.
"Daisy, send in…" He paused mid sentence realizing that he didn't
know his daughter's name. `What's her name?'" He whispered to Leslie.
"Kira." She supplied, he raised an eyebrow and repeated the
name. "Kira."
Letting go of the button, Antoine held his breath as the statuesque
beauty regally walked into his office. He stood up and walked over to
the nervous teen. He embraced her, relishing in the warmth of her
hugs. It dawned on him at that moment. He had a daughter.
* * * * *
Leslie watched as father and daughter hugged for the first time.
Because of everything that she had gone through after Antoine's
desertion, she dreaded this day happening. However, if she was honest
with herself, she'd admit that maybe it wasn't a good idea keeping
Kira from him. For the past few years, Kira has asked excessively
about her father. Leslie tried to appease her curiosity with all of
the information that she could about Antoine, without being bitter.
She explained to Kira that her father was a nice man who was kind
enough to donate the sperm it took to make a baby, and that to
intrude on his life saying "Hi dad, I'm home" was unfair to him.
Leslie hadn't realized how much her daughter had missed having a
father. A few months ago, Kira started conversation on the Internet.
Leslie thought that it was harmless until it started becoming a real
problem. Kira started missing gymnastics classes, and cheerleading
practices. She started living in her room, always on the computer, so
one day while Kira was at school, she logged onto her computer and
found some disturbing correspondence between Kira and some pervert
logging on as silver_fox057. Leslie was alarmed by his login, so she
started to investigate. The idiot posted a picture of a young man,
however after reading all of the correspondence between the man and
her daughter, she was able to extract some clues as to the man's
identity. She was horrified at her discovery.
This Logan Hudson guy gained her email address through a common
website page popular to teens and young adults now a days. There, he
began to chat with her, using the information that Kira had made
public. She was appalled at how vulnerable her daughter had made
herself right on the Internet. The conversations started out innocent
enough. Questions about home and school. Then it progressed to
boyfriends and school activities. And ultimately it ended with
the "perv" asking for sex and pics. She was shocked at how this
stranger was able to tap into her daughter's needs and exploit them
to his convince. She never realized that by denying Kira an
opportunity to know her father, it was opening a door for predators
to come in. Hell, Kira probably would have been better off with any
strong male role model rather than none at all. It was definitely a
big mistake to have kept her from her father, she was sure of that.
She was afraid that by allowing a man into her home it would open up
an opportunity for Kira to be violated, the way she had once been
violated.
Leslie was so deep in her thoughts, she hadn't realized that
her daughter had come to sit down by her, and Antoine was back at his
desk barking orders to his secretary.
"Daisy. Reschedule everything I have for next week. Let my brother
know that he has the helm today." He then hung up the phone.
"Now tell me exactly what is going on with my daughter, and I want to
know everything."
* * * *
"It all started about six months ago. I was interested in a
boy from my school. Since I'm not allowed to date" Kira rolled her
eyes at her mother, who gave her a stern look back, she continued her
story. " I started chatting online with this boy from my school.
Everything was going fine until he wanted to take the relationship
past the `let's meet at lunch, and let's talk on the computer' phase.
I knew that Mom would be virtually impossible to fool when it came
down to sneaking out and cutting school, and since I go to a strict
Christian School where boy/girl fraternization is a big `no no'; he
broke it off with me. I started to feel really depressed when I
received an email from his father telling me what a jerk Avery had
been for breaking up with me." She paused for a minute and closed her
eyes as the tears fell down her pretty oval face. "It started out
innocently enough. He was very friendly. I was even considering
introducing him to Mom. He told me that it wasn't a good idea and
that he wasn't over his late wife and that no one would find an ugly
old man like himself attractive. I asked him to send me a picture of
himself and he did. He wasn't bad looking and I told him so. He
confided in me that I was a breath of fresh air, and that I seemed
really mature for my age and that's probably why Avery couldn't
handle a woman like myself." Kira started to break down crying again,
and both Leslie and Antoine went over and hugged her.
"Look, this is upsetting her, and it's pretty graphic. Antoine get me
a piece of paper and a pencil, I'll give you access to her email
account." He did, and for the next hour and a half he read the
graphic emails and looked at graphic photos.
"So let me get this straight." Antoine said in a murderous
tone. "After you reported this pervert to the authorities, he was
sentenced to four months in jail. He gets out and begins to stalk
her! His son assaults her and gets sentenced to counseling!" The rage
was building up further and Antoine struggled to keep a lid on his
anger. "So he begins to stalk her, taking pictures of her in her bed
room, at the pool, and at cheerleading practice, threatening to post
it on the Internet!"
"Yes."
"And the police says what about this?"
"Logan Hudson is the son of a prominent retired attorney in our city.
After his arrest and release, he was able to disappear, except he
manages to get in contact with Kira and he's near because he's taking
recent photos. I've taken out a restraining order against him, but
nothing seems to deter him. He believes that Kira is his `soul mate'
and he'll stop at nothing to get to her, and that includes seeing me
dead."
There was a brief silence over the room.
"Is there a chance that you've been followed by him?"
"No, I don't think so. I've been using cash, and I drove down here
from California. I'm sure that he doesn't know we've gone yet. Why?"
"I want to talk with you alone. I'm sure Kira is hungry, so I'm going
to send her out with Daisy; I need to make sure she's not in any
danger. This building has a restaurant on the bottom floor." Antoine
stood up and buzzed Daisy again. She agreed to take Kira to the
restaurant to grab a bite to eat. What he needed to talk to Leslie
alone.
"How far are you willing to go to protect our daughter?"
Antoine asked Leslie as he closed the door behind Kira. He walked
over to her with panther like movement, leaning in close to her face.
"I am willing to do anything to keep my daughter safe. Getting in
contact with you should be a testament of how far I am willing to go
to ensuring her safety." Leslie was still feeling salty after all
these years of feeling betrayed by him, and she wanted him to feel
her anger, or so he reasoned.
"Good, because I plan on making you my wife, and having you move in
with me."
Thursday, June 22, 2006
CONTEST
I'll be having a contest for my upcoming release. The individual who can come up with a unique title to my upcoming novel will receive an $80(or more) Mary Kay Basket for him. I have already released the details of the contest to my yahoo group members, and I will be making the details of the book public next week. Just click on the yahoo icon located on this blog site for a head start.
I'll keep you posted.
Lea
I'll keep you posted.
Lea
Sunday, June 11, 2006
BE SAFE
Okay Floridians, are you already for the start of the new storm season? As a reminder, Don't forget to take pictures of your home and personal belonging just incase. Make sure you are familar w/ exits out of town, including new intersate routes, and highways. Check on your neighbors, especially first time storm goers and elderly.
Many blessing and be safe,
Lea
Many blessing and be safe,
Lea
Monday, April 24, 2006
AUTISM DISPUTE
Okay, I'm in a dispute with the school board because one woman decided that our school district doesn't want to support the small number of children with autism, so she has made the decision to place the children in regular special ed. classes, and cut the existing autism classes to save the district a few dollars. The problem is, is autism is a spectrum disorder and putting them in proposed setting boarders on abuse.I personally know most of the children that these new cuts will affect and I , along with their parents and teachers, are convinced that they will not survive such a liberally sturctured setting. Is it too much to ask for our children to get a fair shot in life? Yes, you can save a few dollars by cutting the autism programs now. But should you? I don't think so. It's parent's right to have an adquate and safe atmosphere for our children to learn. I feel as if the public school system has placed a price on the value of our children's education and it reads: Tor Sale: Cheap.
Lea
Lea
Thursday, April 06, 2006
MRS. C
I was calling my phone company to cancel my service when I was blessed with the opportunity to see a real customer service agent in action. "Mrs. C" I'd like to call her, not only made me feel important, she made me feel as if my gripes mattered. She was able to help me with my problems, make great suggestions on how to utilize my current services. She even gave me some help numbers to use incase something unexpected happen. She didn't do more than she was supposed to, but what she did, she did well.
Thank you Mrs. Clark, for doing your job well.
P.S.
I not only stayed with the company because of Mrs. Clark's helpfulness , I've also purchased additional services with the company.
Lea
Thank you Mrs. Clark, for doing your job well.
P.S.
I not only stayed with the company because of Mrs. Clark's helpfulness , I've also purchased additional services with the company.
Lea
Saturday, March 25, 2006
WHOSE AT FAULT???
So I’m checking around, trying to find out what are readers likes and dislikes, and I find myself having to touch upon a subject that is both disconcerting as-well-as hurtful; however, it is a subject that needs to be addressed so, my topic today is: BAD EDITING
Bad editing has become increasingly popular in today’s literary market, especially in the e-book industry. Bad editing has been a bane in the Publishing industry’s side, yet the matter is getting worst. I’ve come up with my own conclusions that I would like to share with you on who I believe is at fault for bad editing; and I blame quite a few individuals since I believe bad editing is a community effort.
First off, The Author: As an author, the book is ultimately our responsibility because it’s our reputation that is on the line. (I'm testifying as proof)
However, by saying this, I know that there have been times when the editor has made format, book adjustments, dedications, and editorial bloopers with out the consent, or knowledge of the author,(never been the case w/ me) so it was out of the author’s control that the book was published with bloopers.
Next on my list are the editors: You are the last line of defense for writers.
It is the editor’s job to make sure that the manuscripts are polished and ready to go. Companies pay their editors to make sure that the books are flawless, so if it’s a bad book, at least it’s not because of the edits. A poorly edited book can break a book; the story is lost to readers because of editorial mistakes. I encourage editors to do the job they are hired to do.
Now saying that, some companies hire editors to oversee manuscripts. These companies encourages you to get an 'edit doctor' before submitting because they are not looking to edit your book, but rather over see that the book flows properly.
And finally, Publishing Companies: It is your company’s reputation that is on the line. Make sure that the individuals you employ are doing his/her job. One glitch in the chain can compromise the entire anchor. Enforce the job that you are employing individuals to do. Make it clear to the authors if they need to acquire his/her own editor or “edit doctor.”
I want to hear from you, Holla back
And yes, my grammer isn't that great, so if you are looking for flaws you will find them.
Lea
Bad editing has become increasingly popular in today’s literary market, especially in the e-book industry. Bad editing has been a bane in the Publishing industry’s side, yet the matter is getting worst. I’ve come up with my own conclusions that I would like to share with you on who I believe is at fault for bad editing; and I blame quite a few individuals since I believe bad editing is a community effort.
First off, The Author: As an author, the book is ultimately our responsibility because it’s our reputation that is on the line. (I'm testifying as proof)
However, by saying this, I know that there have been times when the editor has made format, book adjustments, dedications, and editorial bloopers with out the consent, or knowledge of the author,(never been the case w/ me) so it was out of the author’s control that the book was published with bloopers.
Next on my list are the editors: You are the last line of defense for writers.
It is the editor’s job to make sure that the manuscripts are polished and ready to go. Companies pay their editors to make sure that the books are flawless, so if it’s a bad book, at least it’s not because of the edits. A poorly edited book can break a book; the story is lost to readers because of editorial mistakes. I encourage editors to do the job they are hired to do.
Now saying that, some companies hire editors to oversee manuscripts. These companies encourages you to get an 'edit doctor' before submitting because they are not looking to edit your book, but rather over see that the book flows properly.
And finally, Publishing Companies: It is your company’s reputation that is on the line. Make sure that the individuals you employ are doing his/her job. One glitch in the chain can compromise the entire anchor. Enforce the job that you are employing individuals to do. Make it clear to the authors if they need to acquire his/her own editor or “edit doctor.”
I want to hear from you, Holla back
And yes, my grammer isn't that great, so if you are looking for flaws you will find them.
Lea
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
VENTING WHILE RECOVERING FROM THE FLU
I've had the flu. While down and out, I got to see a lot of TV. And I've enjoyed it!!!
(Being a reading girl, I limit my TV viewing to Jeopardy, Ghost
Whisperer, House, court shows,and a few other selections) so I've
been amazed at the things that's on.
First off is Fox: I could kick them dumb ass closed minded, closet
Klans Beltway Bastard Boys!!! How dare they blame Oprah and Sean
Penn and other celebraties for the debocal of Katrina's relief? I
live on the Gulf Cost. Had it not been for Oprah, Sean Penn and
other celebraties, and church officals, many others would have died.
Sean Carter(Jay-Z) and P.Diddy being the first to render help just
days after the storm when it wasn't even being discussed on the
news!!!
So for the Beltway Busters to try and diss the celebs and not our
tired ass, sorry, "it ain't my fault" Govt. is offensive!
Second thing that I've noticed that's going on....Videos! Black
people WTF. How are we letting our beloved entertainers get away
with exploiting black women? Come on These videos that come on
cable, BET, especially since VHI is still VH1 and MTV is now
REALITY, so it's we who are degrading, demeaning and demoralizing
our values and culture. What ever happened too "I'm black and I'm
proud? Black men being a Tribesmen, and ladies: your body is a
temple, don't let anyone just come in and worship."
You have Video hoes on the best sellers list for being a video hoe.
okay.(hateraide on my part, I guess.LOL)
Osama is still around. Where will he pop up next? In a Puffy Video?
Hmm.
What is the Govt. thinking about turing over control of our U.S.
Ports to the damned Saudi's. Who on this Earth and surrounding
Galaxies believes that the Saudi's are innocent in their knowledge
of terrorist plots against the U.S.? And why does Great Britian gets
to call some shots in this decusion? Besides Americans, who doesn't
own the U.S.?
And finally, Hell yeah Nick should get paid!!!
Lea
(Being a reading girl, I limit my TV viewing to Jeopardy, Ghost
Whisperer, House, court shows,and a few other selections) so I've
been amazed at the things that's on.
First off is Fox: I could kick them dumb ass closed minded, closet
Klans Beltway Bastard Boys!!! How dare they blame Oprah and Sean
Penn and other celebraties for the debocal of Katrina's relief? I
live on the Gulf Cost. Had it not been for Oprah, Sean Penn and
other celebraties, and church officals, many others would have died.
Sean Carter(Jay-Z) and P.Diddy being the first to render help just
days after the storm when it wasn't even being discussed on the
news!!!
So for the Beltway Busters to try and diss the celebs and not our
tired ass, sorry, "it ain't my fault" Govt. is offensive!
Second thing that I've noticed that's going on....Videos! Black
people WTF. How are we letting our beloved entertainers get away
with exploiting black women? Come on These videos that come on
cable, BET, especially since VHI is still VH1 and MTV is now
REALITY, so it's we who are degrading, demeaning and demoralizing
our values and culture. What ever happened too "I'm black and I'm
proud? Black men being a Tribesmen, and ladies: your body is a
temple, don't let anyone just come in and worship."
You have Video hoes on the best sellers list for being a video hoe.
okay.(hateraide on my part, I guess.LOL)
Osama is still around. Where will he pop up next? In a Puffy Video?
Hmm.
What is the Govt. thinking about turing over control of our U.S.
Ports to the damned Saudi's. Who on this Earth and surrounding
Galaxies believes that the Saudi's are innocent in their knowledge
of terrorist plots against the U.S.? And why does Great Britian gets
to call some shots in this decusion? Besides Americans, who doesn't
own the U.S.?
And finally, Hell yeah Nick should get paid!!!
Lea
Sunday, February 12, 2006
VALENTINE VIXENS
Valentine Vixens out at Oceans Mist Press, Feb.13, 2006
www.oceansmistpress.com
www.leaa4u.com
Monday, February 06, 2006
WRITING DIVAS
WRITING DIVAS IS UP AND BOY ARE WE HOT!!! LADIES AND GENTLEMEN WE HAVE A BUNCH OF EXCITING WRITERS WHO HAVE HER OWN STYLE OF WRITINGS, SO CHECK US OUT AT: www.writingdivas.com
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
JANUARY BIRTHDAYS
I want to take the time out and wish the following individuals a Happy Birthday, this Happy New Year:
Anisa Damien
Tamika Fair
Jaid Black
Kimberly Terry
Stephanie Saint Blacque
Earlithia Atchison
Sharlswain Atchison
Terrell Boswell
Freya Chester
Devon Rashard
*Happy Anniversary to the Rivera's*
Sunday, January 22, 2006
PAYING FOR BIGGIE'S MURDER
Okay, the L.A. Police department has to pay the family of he slain rapper Biggie Smalls, 1.1 million dollars because of evidence tampering! We all know that Sug Knight ordered the murder of Biggie via the corrupt police officers that were on his pay roll. Corruption started from the head on down to the lower levels. It makes me angry to think about the corruption that goes on in our country with law enforcement. What ever happened to "Protect and serve? I missed the memo where it says "Corrupt and Antagonize". Punk bastards!
Monday, January 16, 2006
INTERVIEW WITH SHIREE MCCARVER
Lea
In the world of fantasy, this writer is red hot! Her storylines are original, and you'll fall in love with her characters. Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, the interview with Mrs.Shiree McCarver.
Lea:
Hello Shiree, What an honor it is to interview you.
Shiree
You are really sweet thank you so much. I’m honored that you chose to interview me.
Lea
I have to say, I really enjoyed Shelby and Darius's story. What made you write this story?
Shiree
I wrote it because of something wonderful that happened to me during a weekend. I no longer felt like an attractive woman and I met a stranger that I shared not sex but something more rare. I shared a moment of intimacy and he made me feel treasured. It was my Waiting to Exhale moment. You know like that scene with Angela Bassett and Wesley Snipes in the hotel room.
Lea
You seem to have extensive knowledge of classical and mythological history. Did you study literature?
Shiree
To be honest and I know this is awful of a writer to say, but I dislike literature for literature sake. You know reading the stuff just so you appear to be smart. I read mythology because I love history and everything about it.
Lea
How do you brainstorm?
Shiree
I really don’t. I can be washing dishes, driving, watching something on TV and I always have pen and paper handy because out of the blue a scene comes to mind, then everything else follows the scene.
Lea
What is your creative process?
Shiree
I start with a scene coming to my head where I actually act the part of my characters aloud; it’s like watching a soap opera. After that I start asking ‘what if?’. The next thing I know is I have a story, once I have the story I start listening to the characters and let them lead me.
Lea
Since music is a part of who you are, will we see a music reference in all of your writings?
Shiree
I would like to say no, but I think so far it has been, now that I think of it. But if it happens it isn’t intentional. Its just music is such a big part of my life. I sing at the drop of a hat, it has helped me deal with hard times and seem to be something needed in my life like breathing.
Lea
Why did you choose to write fantasy?
Shiree
I actually write interracial historical romances and my first book is fantasy because I needed it to be in order for me to be honest in my characterization of Selby. Selby is me in many ways and it’s hard to put yourself out there for people to judge and see in black and white. So I created a fantasy mixed with reality to ease the pain of reliving parts of my life through her. I also was able to combine my knowledge of history by making my shifters Satyrs.
Lea
What do you read?
Shiree
Historical Romances of course, Paranormal, Fantasy, Horror and Fairytales…shoot anything I can get my hand on. My biggest reading library is true crime stories, I’m really interested in how the mind of the twisted works.
Lea
How long have you been writing?
Shiree
Since I was eleven I started writing songs and poetry. When I turned fifteen read my first romance by the age of seventeen I wanted more books with girls like me and decided to write. So I have been writing in some form for 31 years off and on.
Lea
Who is your favorite writer?
Shiree
I don’t have just one favorite because I read too much.
Lea
How much of your characters are you?
Shiree
So far emotionally, all of the women have a part of me in them. Selby is 80% me. My hero’s is how I pictured My Prince would be. I have yet to meet him in the flesh.
Lea
Where do you draw your inspirations from?
Shiree
Oh wow, a little bit of everywhere. Sometimes it’s something I read, parts of my life, watching TV. Mostly the characters in my head won’t shut up and I write what they tell me. (lol)
Lea
You do not shy away from explicite sex scenes. How do you keep it classy and tasteful?
Shiree
First thank you, it wasn’t my intention. I suppose it comes off that way because I am not one to have sex for the sake of having sex, so I don’t do it with my main characters. I am a firm believer that sex isn’t mind blowing unless you are emotionally vested. I believe when feelings are involved the characters can be highly erotic, even freaky but you get the feeling that they are that way because they can’t get enough of each other mentally and physically.
Lea
You aren't afraid to give your opinions, so let me ask you:
How has the publishing business been to you?
Shiree
I actually have not accumulated the horror stories that many authors have. I wrote a white on white historical once that was almost accepted by Avon and in the requested rewrites I ruined the story and I realized later I did it because that wasn’t the reason I started writing. So it’s been good, I sold my first two interracial books to the first publishers I sent them to.
An agent turned me down. I thought to go that route because I was confused about what I should do first. So I let the fates decide, if the agent didn’t want me, it meant I was to go the building my resume route first. She turned me down, I think she didn’t feel she could sale an interracial story and I wasn’t established enough for her to waste time on. It’s easier to sell a sure thing you know. I figured it was her loss and decided who can sale me better then me. (lol) It’s good enough for now.
Lea
Do you feel restricted?
Shiree
No, I don’t feel restricted at all because I’m very open about the fact that I am not just a romance writer I am an interracial romance writer. Take it or leave it. I spent all of these years waiting for this moment in time when what I write is openly received by someone. I had no problems waiting as long as I had to. I’m not writing to impress, I’m writing to express how beautiful the world could be if we could love anyone we wanted without racial interference. You won’t find many racial motivated issues in my books. I don’t need it to move my storylines, they have too much other stuff going on.
Lea
What about stereotyped? Do you feel like you are stereotyped?
Shiree
What about it? I don’t think I have ever personally felt stereotyped. I’m too outspoken and outgoing to allow myself to be bagged and labeled. I have been denied more opportunities because I was overweight then I have because I was black. Twice I was denied my dream of performing and both times it was because I wanted to sing Country music. I was told they couldn’t sell a black woman in Nashville, guess they were right because they still don’t have one and that was 20 years ago when I was told that. I feel stereotyping is an issue of the beholder, not mine.
Lea
Look into the future for a minute.
Where is the E-Pub business in your opinion?
Shiree
I remember a time when paperbacks were considered dime story entertainment, you didn’t read them in public and no real novelist would dare write such smut. Hardcover was the only true form of a true author. That is one of the reasons for Alias names of authors. The money was in the dime store smut, but they didn’t want their peers finding out and it ruined their reputations. That was also a time were only men were allowed to write, or so it appeared females wrote under masculine names.
Shiree
So see how time changes all things. I see E-Pub being the next paperback smut peddler, it will be highly praised as being successful in the future. Yes we still love holding our books. But what about Generation X? They have computer disc School textbooks now. Remember they are our future. So you get with the program or be like the next occasional hardcover author. Look how you only see the same writers getting the hardcover opportunities.
Lea
Where is Shiree?
Shiree
First let me tell you when I had my past life reading, I found out in one of my lives I was a writer who was too outspoken for my time and I was hung for it. So I feel as if I am fulfilling my destiny in my current life. I am once again writing about something the world is not ready to accept. But this time I won’t be forgotten. Long after I have gone my stories will be remembered by someone. When I found out five years ago I would not ever have children of my own, I became serious about my writing and being published no matter what. These stories are my children…this is my legacy. So wherever I am in the future I shall be right where I was meant to be.
Lea
Your future works?
Shiree
My future works?
Shiree
Well not only do I have Selby and Darius coming out at www.oceansmistpress.com they are also considering Forever Moonlight, which ties in with Selby and Darius and afterwards I will be submitting for their consideration Zaza and Sylus’s story, again ties in with Selby and Darius.
www.newconceptspublishing.com , has my first Historical Interracial Romance, The Lord and the Scorpion which is over a 130,000 word novel and the first of four, all stand alone stories. So hopefully it will sell well so it can be reproduce for future paperback distribution.
My current goal is to have four or five books circulating amongst my readers while I take the rest of the year to work on second Interracial Historical The Prince and the Panther. They are the most time consuming to write. I welcome all to check out my website www.shireemccarver.com and join my group while you are there so you can keep up with the latest updates. I also have a big give away planned for the kick off of Selby and Darius! I also encourage emails shireemccarver@yahoo.com
Lea
Cool, we readers love free things. LOL
Lea
Shiree, it has been great having you. Thank you for granting me this interview.
Shiree
Thank you so much Lea for considering me interview worthy. As my career unfolds you are always welcomed back for updates, ice tea in mason jars, and some girly talk.
Lea
It will be my pleasure
INTERVIEW WITH JINGER HEASTON
L.T.:
In the world of publishing, the cover art is critical to an author's book. No, we should not judge a book by it's cover, but we often do. In the world of cover art, you have good, great, and then you have Jinger. Jinger has proven to be the best in the business of cover art, and I am honored and privledged to have her here today. Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, the best in the business, Jinger Heaston.
L.T.:
Thank you for joining me Jinger.
I want to say that it is a real pleasure to have you here today. I am truly a fan of your artwork.
L.T.:
How do you draw inspirations for your artwork?
Jinger:
Well I don’t know if you would call it “inspiration” but I do like to listen to Celtic music, Enya stuff like that when Im working. It kind of depends on the mood as to what I listen to. I can go from Patsy Cline to Janis Joplin while working!
L.T.:
Cool. What an ecclectic selection.
How did you get started in the business?
Jinger:
I worked for PawPrints POD and wondered if creating covers was something I could do, I attended Kansas State University were I studied Art, so I had the education, just never applied it. So I applied at Whiskey Creek Press and was hired!
L.T.:
When you get an assignment, what determines the outcome of the book?
Jinger:
If you are talking about the outcome of the book cover, it depends on several factors. The Authors wants, my ideas, their ideas and a combination of both.
L.T.:
You are so diverse, how do you deliver such accurate beautiful work each time?
Jinger.:
Thank You!! I'm glad you like my work, working with you was so much fun and I look forward to doing it again. This may seem silly but sometimes I can see the cover in my mind and I just set out to create it. It is a tough job to reach into the mind of someone you do not know and bring to life their vision of the perfect cover, Im very blessed to have my job.
L.T.:
How long have you been doing this cover art?
Jinger:
About 2 years, maybe a bit longer.
L.T.
What other art work do you do?
Jinger:
Mostly draw unicorns over and over for my youngest daughter! I have also painted a few murals on bedroom walls *kids themes*
L.T.
Did you have to go to school to learn your trade?
Jinger:
Yes and No. I majored in Art, but learned how to apply that to covers on my own.
L.T.:
Do you love what you do?
Jinger:
I absolutely adore what I do!!!
L.T.:
What about the authors that you do art work for? Is the process part author/ part Jinger, or is it Jinger?
Jinger:
It is half and half. Most of the Authors I have been blessed to work with have wonderful ideas express those in the AIF and really help bring the vision to life. They are also open minded enough to look at another direction I may go and think, “Hey..actually I like that!” A team effort all the way.
L.T.:
What's your favorite cover?
Jinger:
The next one!!
L.T.
And we can't wait to see it!
L.T.
Let's talk about Kate September's The Siren's Bloom(Ocean's Mist Press Publishing) That cover rocked! How did you decide on that book cover?
Jinger:
Kate had provided a drawing that her Mother had done *wonderful job by the way Kate’s Mom!* and I kind of took that and ran with it. What struck me on the AIF was the color of the eyes, so I wanted to really work those into the artwork.
L.T.
What's next for you?
Jinger:
More covers and making new friends with all these wonderful Authors!!
L.T.:
Thank you for spending this time with us.
http://www.jingraphix.com
In the world of publishing, the cover art is critical to an author's book. No, we should not judge a book by it's cover, but we often do. In the world of cover art, you have good, great, and then you have Jinger. Jinger has proven to be the best in the business of cover art, and I am honored and privledged to have her here today. Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, the best in the business, Jinger Heaston.
L.T.:
Thank you for joining me Jinger.
I want to say that it is a real pleasure to have you here today. I am truly a fan of your artwork.
L.T.:
How do you draw inspirations for your artwork?
Jinger:
Well I don’t know if you would call it “inspiration” but I do like to listen to Celtic music, Enya stuff like that when Im working. It kind of depends on the mood as to what I listen to. I can go from Patsy Cline to Janis Joplin while working!
L.T.:
Cool. What an ecclectic selection.
How did you get started in the business?
Jinger:
I worked for PawPrints POD and wondered if creating covers was something I could do, I attended Kansas State University were I studied Art, so I had the education, just never applied it. So I applied at Whiskey Creek Press and was hired!
L.T.:
When you get an assignment, what determines the outcome of the book?
Jinger:
If you are talking about the outcome of the book cover, it depends on several factors. The Authors wants, my ideas, their ideas and a combination of both.
L.T.:
You are so diverse, how do you deliver such accurate beautiful work each time?
Jinger.:
Thank You!! I'm glad you like my work, working with you was so much fun and I look forward to doing it again. This may seem silly but sometimes I can see the cover in my mind and I just set out to create it. It is a tough job to reach into the mind of someone you do not know and bring to life their vision of the perfect cover, Im very blessed to have my job.
L.T.:
How long have you been doing this cover art?
Jinger:
About 2 years, maybe a bit longer.
L.T.
What other art work do you do?
Jinger:
Mostly draw unicorns over and over for my youngest daughter! I have also painted a few murals on bedroom walls *kids themes*
L.T.
Did you have to go to school to learn your trade?
Jinger:
Yes and No. I majored in Art, but learned how to apply that to covers on my own.
L.T.:
Do you love what you do?
Jinger:
I absolutely adore what I do!!!
L.T.:
What about the authors that you do art work for? Is the process part author/ part Jinger, or is it Jinger?
Jinger:
It is half and half. Most of the Authors I have been blessed to work with have wonderful ideas express those in the AIF and really help bring the vision to life. They are also open minded enough to look at another direction I may go and think, “Hey..actually I like that!” A team effort all the way.
L.T.:
What's your favorite cover?
Jinger:
The next one!!
L.T.
And we can't wait to see it!
L.T.
Let's talk about Kate September's The Siren's Bloom(Ocean's Mist Press Publishing) That cover rocked! How did you decide on that book cover?
Jinger:
Kate had provided a drawing that her Mother had done *wonderful job by the way Kate’s Mom!* and I kind of took that and ran with it. What struck me on the AIF was the color of the eyes, so I wanted to really work those into the artwork.
L.T.
What's next for you?
Jinger:
More covers and making new friends with all these wonderful Authors!!
L.T.:
Thank you for spending this time with us.
http://www.jingraphix.com
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