A Brand New Courtney- A Shero's Journey From Being Broken to Being Blessed!

“The “make up” of Courtney M. Hawkins is that of one, who through sheer strength of will, finds a way to live through it all! From brokenness to blessedness, Courtney’s testimony is nothing short of a miracle. She has reached a place in her  healing process to be a blessing to someone else.” -Pastor Darrell L. Fairer Faith Bible Tabernacle, Buffalo, NY

Courtney Hawkins

We all are on a life journey, and Courtney takes us on one of healing, redemption and growing from being Broken to Being Blessed. “Dr. Courtney" new memoir, The Make-up of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty is one every woman going through the journey of rebirthing and unmasking oneself should read. She shares how she healed with the grace of God and his mercy. She broke from the the bondage of self-hatred, guilt, self-hatred, guilt, shame, incompetence, depression, anxiety and thoughts about suicide. Her words will inspire you, encourage and motivate you to love yourself.

1.      Courtney, I would first like to thank you for allowing me to the opportunity to write an article about you. Could you give the readers the make-up of Courtney?

“Dr. Courtney” is a woman of passion, perseverance and vision. Her purpose is to coach and assist the broken hearted through their delivery and healing process. She is a Minister, Author, Certified Grief Recovery Specialist, Mental Health First Aid Trainer, Life Coach and Public Speaker.

“Dr. Courtney” is admired for her strength, courage and willingness to be very transparent about her flaws with hopes others may feel freed to embrace their own.  Her very straight forward and straightforward approach has her dubbed as the Dr. who’s “A tough pill to swallow”.

1.      What spark the idea to write a memoir and share your life story?

As an overcomer who has endured same-sex molestation, rape and a survivor of a fatal car accident that claimed another’s life, I understand how it feels to be broken. As a result, of these events, I was filled with self-hatred, guilt, shame, incompetence, depression, anxiety and thoughts about suicide.

Tired of hiding and determined to break free of mental and emotional bondage, I chose to surrender my fears and do the work necessary to live an abundant life. I selected to accept the transformational power of forgiveness, grace and mercy for my life which is legally bestowed to me as a child of God, and now I continually practice self-love while embracing my flaws and all.

This book is an eye into my diary of healing. I wanted to chronicle my life through my memoir while being optimistic that others would read it and uncover vital insights that will guide the reader into embracing their natural beauty. Also, with hopes that the reader will discover within the pages the written keys that will unlock their truth that can support them in setting themselves free.

2.      Share a little about The Make-up of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty and why you chose that title?

Generally speaking “Makeup” has been used for countless generations to make oneself more attractive by masking their imperfections and flaws.  Flaws and blemishes can be an embarrassment to many people.  Because many of us lack the courage and confidence needed to accept and embrace our flaws we misrepresent ourselves by covering them with masks.

I chose to name the book “The Makeup of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty” because I wanted to remove my mask and expose myself so that others who witnessed my trials and tribulations would also know of God’s healing power.  I wanted to share my story so that others would be freed to embrace their flaws and share their own stories. 

3.       4. What words of encouragement would you like to share with women who are in the rut of life and feel like they will never recover?”

Here’s an excerpt from her Memoir The Make-up of Me: Embrace Your Natural Beauty and why you chose that title and Chapter “EMBRACELET.”

“Embracing the truth and letting go of the lies that I told myself was a process for me and remains a practice that I continue on a daily basis.  Just as I accept brand new mercies and grace for myself daily, I also make a conscious effort to embrace something positive and let go of something negative.   What lies are you telling yourself that you should let go of?  What truths do you need to embrace?”- Courtney M. Hawkins

Here are a few to consider…

Embrace                                                                Let go of

I’m fearfully and wonderfully made                  I’m flawed and imperfect 

I’m more than a conqueror                                I’m not enough

I’m unconditionally loved by the King                No one loves me

4.      What have you learned (or still learning) since being in the business of self-publishing?

 I’ve learned to trust myself and believe in my abilities. That with God’s guidance I can accomplish things that I didn’t know I was capable of doing on my own.

5.       Tell me a little about your company Broken Branches, Inc.?

 Broken Branches Inc. Provides a wide range of programming that pertain to an individual’s mental health.  Our Mission is to comfort those who mourn, restore healthy relationships, and increase mental health awareness in our communities with the hope that individuals live a more healthy, abundant and productive life.  Our Motto: Lean on us for your Life, Health, and Strength!

6.      Lastly, if you had to choose one person living or dead who would you like to have a dinner with?

I would love to have dinner with Karyn Washington. Karyn was the beautiful visionary behind the encouraging and uplifting website, Forbrowngirls.com.   She created the forum to celebrate the beauty of darker shades of brown skin, to encourage women to embrace the skin they’re in. At just the age of 22, while finding it difficult to grieve the loss of her mother Karyn committed suicide.

I wish I were able to comfort her during her time of grieving.  I wish I could’ve told her that she can lean on me for her Life, Health and Strength. 

 You can follow her on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/Voniquedesigns

Thank you for allowing me as well as so many women share in your journey tragedy but teaching us to see that each struggle, each life changing journey is God's road map to your true purpose.  

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AND THAT'S WHY SHE'S STILL STANDING

Pink Noire is pleased to have the author of Target and her most recent release, How Do I Choose, Sherry Robinson. Thank you for taking the time to join me. Now, tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Sherry Robinson, and I am a native Chicagoan. I was born July with a birth sign of Leo. I am a mother of two, and a grandmother of six. My love of reading is what sparked my interest in becoming an author. My favorite authors include Danielle Steele, V.C. Andrews, Stephen King, and Edger Allen Poe. With that interest, I began writing books in high school, and my dreams became my reality as I have now published a total of four books (Damaged beyond repair, Targeted, Targeted 2, and How do I choose). In my spare time, I enjoy crocheting, reading, and spending time with my grandchildren. My more adventurous side has led me to travel to various places, such as Canada and Puerto Rico, and my hopes is to someday have the privilege of visiting every state in North America; I have visited 21 states so far and counting.

Among your books, Damaged Beyond Repair, is your biography, detailing your life challenges and how you had overcome them. In the book, you’ve discussed a very sensitive issue: child molestation and the person who was responsible. I don’t want to ask you to divulge the details of that night; but to share the importance of trust and how that might have affected future relationships. 

After dealing with the issue of being molested as a child it has played a big part in my relationships. It has taught me to be distrusting of men, and once I feel them getting to close, I pull away. I have never learn to trust anyone, and maybe that is what led them to ultimately cheat. I have hidden from love for so long that I really don't know how to love anyone. 

When writing this book, what had you learn about yourself?

I have learned that there isn't any room in my life to share with anyone. The people closet to me didn't have any idea that I was caring around this burden. The shame of being molested is worse than the act. I had to live my life sleep deprived, and I couldn't trust anyone with my daughter because I had to shield her from this same act being done to her. Wherever she was I was.

What’s the relationship you have with this person today?

Me and this person is fine. I have forgiven him, but I haven't forgotten about the horror I had to endure at the his hands. He had transformed me into a person that is still hiding in the shadows of my imagination. 

Okay, let’s go from your biography to another work of yours: Target and Target 2. Briefly, tell us the premise of the story and its characters. 

This book is based on a woman{Danielle}. She was trying to befriend a man {John}. She later learned that John was Targeting her, and had ultimately he ended up raping her. She never got past the rape, because John started stalking her showing up every where she was, and he even killed the love of her life trying to keep him from getting close to her. Targeted 2 kept the story  line going because the man she killed ended up returning from the dead, and the stalking continued causing her to try and rid herself of the man that was making her life a living hell.

Your latest release, How Do I Choose, seems like a hot read. Tell us more about it. 

How Do I choose is a hot read it is intended for mature audiences because of it's sexual contents, and explicit language. It's about a woman{Mya} who had a man at home Treshawn who loved her dearly and worshiped the ground she walked on, but she met a man in the club {Marion} that she had one steamy bathroom scene with which had her wanting him more and more, so she started having sex with him every time he came to town. Treshawn bust her with Marion and they ended up in a fist fight where Treshawn asked her right out who did she choose, and she couldn't decide.  

Of all your characters, who would you gladly take out to dinner, and why?

I would take Treshawn out to dinner he was the kind of man that every woman dreamed of. He was loyal, trustworthy, and dedicated.

Are there any projects you’re working on? If so, do tell. 

I have a new release do out soon called "Sins Of The Cloth". This book is a must read because it depict how a pastor got caught up with a woman{ Tara}, and he started breaking all ten of the commandments just to be in a relationship with her.  He started killing, stealing, and everything else until she refused to see him anymore causing him to have a break down in front of the whole congregation. I am in the middle of writing How Do I Choose 2, because one of the readers asked me to, because she wanted to know what happened to Mya after she was unable to choose between Treshawn, and Marion.

From what I know, your challenges hadn’t defined you. So what advice do you have for that person who’s reading this and have gone through similar experiences as you? 

I would tell anyone it took me a long time to find myself. I am still struggling with being molested unable to live alone for fear that something like that will happen again. I say if you have a story to tell, tell it no matter who might disapprove. I had some family members that were in awe, then I had some that said get over it. I will tell anybody if you haven't been in my shoes get over it is harder than you think. I didn't write "Damage Beyond Repair" for the finger pointing, name calling, or for my attacker to be persecuted. I wrote it because I was hoping it would offer me some closure to my pain, and the sleepless nights. It offered me a little comfort, but it didn't help with the sleepless night. I also wrote it because I know this a struggle for many women, men, and children and I just wanted them to know that they are not alone in their struggle, and someone else feels their pain...

Describe your future in one word. 

Growing

Synopsis: How Do I Choose

Mya had a man at home that loved her, and supported her fully. Treshawn was a faithful man that gave her sex anytime she wanted it, but she met Marion in the club, and one blissful steamy sex scene in the bathroom had her wanting more of him. Mya knew that she wouldn't be able to stop seeing Marion even if she wanted to. He had her nose wide open, and her legs to. Mya knew she had to hide this romance from Treshawn, so the lies started getting bigger and bigger. She knew she couldn't tell her girls Latrice, and Ania, because they were trying to keep her from falling into the arms of what would be a terrible mistake...When the time came to choose how would she be able to choose between Treshawn, and Marion, because she has feelings for both of them…

Find Sherry at these sites:

https://twitter.com/grndbaby

https://www.facebook.com/sherry.robinson.102

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SPOTLIGHT ARTIST: C. LYNETTE

“Officer Spectacular” excerpt from Ebony Articles: Volume 2"

(EMCEE) “Ladies and gentle cats, welcome to the fifth annual poetry slam. I’m your host, your dee-jay and your emcee, Lady Nique. Without any further hesitations, we’re going to get this thing started. Up to the mic first we have a real treat for y'all. One of our city’s finest coming to the stage. Welcome JT Smooth.”

Everyone, including myself, applauded as I looked around for the poet. Justin let go of my arm and headed to the stage. I was immediately flustered yet intrigued. I loved poetry and a man who could use his words majestically. I moved the people in front of me out of the way so that I could have a front row spot to see what Justin was really capable of.

After all the applause, and by the amount and the snaps from the audience, I could tell he’d been doing this for a while. “Thank you,” he softly responded in a smooth jazz baritone voice. “I wrote this piece a few weeks ago. It was inspired by my date tonight.” All eyes immediately turned to me as I looked onward blushing.

He began:

I entered into my favorite coffee shop and sat in my regular spot

Watching all the patrons talk or browser the internet

When this magnificent mahogany colored cutie walked in the store

Cautiously approaching the cashier, while gazing up at the order boards

I admired her shapely frame, short, thick with her hair in a French bun

Succulent lips and I made eye contact with those almond shaped eyes

She smiled at me, with a slight invitation in her gaze

That’s when I made my approach.

I wouldn’t spit game at her, no she needed something smoother.

Introducing myself would be easy, but getting to know her is what I wanted

I told her I was Justin and that I wrote poetry

She said she heard those words before but entertain her anyway

So I began

All I want to do is write poems all over your body with my lips

Tangle your legs in word play, as your body dances from the rhythm of my tongue

Watch as you respond to the highs and the lows

When the words flow slowly and suddenly pick up

Let me slowly kiss your mind and make your thoughts squirt everywhere

Then let me know, if you’ve heard it all before.

He finished to the sound of multiple finger snaps, whistles and applause. I was impressed, but I couldn’t help but feel like he was subliminally hinting at me. As he walked off the stage, he headed to the bar. I wasn’t sure if I should stay where I was or meet him over there. I just assumed that he needed a minute to himself. Within ten minutes, he was by my side with a drink for each of us.

We sipped on our drinks and enjoyed the rest of the slam. He didn’t say a word to me, so I just let the rest of the night go on. Some people recited more poetry and there was even a woman who got up and sang. After a few more hours, the place winded down and it was time to go.

He still hadn’t said a word to me so I broke the proverbial ice.

“I didn’t know you had such a way with words. I’m very impressed.”

He looked me in the eye like he was searching for a hint of sarcasm. When he didn’t find it, he exhaled and responded, “Thank you. I thought it was too soon to say something like that.”

“No, but don’t think something like that’s going to happen… unless you really think you can make my thoughts squirt everywhere,” I teased. “You’re a very cunning linguist.”

He snickered until he realized my play on words. His eyes widened with shock and he looked at me with an inquisitive stare.

“What? You thought you were the only one who had a way with words?”

“Sneak Encounters 2” excerpt from Ebony Articles: Volume 1

The adrenaline surging through my body caused me to react in a way I never had before. Like a flash of lightning, I loosened his belt, unzipped and unbuttoned his jeans and pulled them down to his knees. I had waited far too long to savor his goods again. I needed to hold, caress, feel and taste him in the worst way.

I pulled out his manhood and ran my tongue slowly down his shaft, letting him feel the warmth from my mouth and the stainless steel of my tongue ring. I teased the tip of his head, only holding him in my mouth for short periods of time, while lightly blowing on it. I kept a steady pace, responding accordingly to every grunt and every moan he let out. Suddenly his grabbed my head and gave two long, hard thrust before relieving himself in the comforts of my mouth. He was ready to return the favor, and I obliged him.

He led me to my living room, grabbing the blanket off of the couch. As I lit some candles and turned off the lights, he laid the blanket on the floor and waited for me. He then eased me on my back down to the floor. He pushed my legs apart and took his finger, the same finger that caught me off guard the first time, and massaged my womanhood slowly. His finger roamed down into the warmth abyss. A deep sigh of please escaped my lips. Then the electricity of his tongue caused me to screech in a pitch I didn’t know I could achieve.

His lips and tongue touched every part of her. I closed my eyes trying to suppress the loud sounds trying to come out. The more I fought, the more intense he got. My legs shook violently as I moaned and came to the point of climaxing, I accidentally let “Magik” slip through my lips. That gave him life. He dipped his tongue into my center and my body gave way to earthquake like convulsions as I came, trying to push his head away. He wrapped his arms around my legs and locked me in place so I couldn’t run. In between licking and slurping her whispered

“Deadly Games” excerpt from Tyranny of Evil: Hearts of Men anthology (will be turned into a novelette)

“Good evening Leela,” his deep thick Mediterranean accent filled her foyer. As he reached out his hand to greet her, the heat rushed through Leela like wildfire and the faint smell of Armani Code surrounded him.

She shook his hand and responded, “You must be Aymil.”

He smiled and kissed her hand causing her to blush further. Maybe my co-workers have better taste than I originally believed, she thought to herself.

“Yes, I’ve heard a lot about you. And your beauty far exceeds the expectations our friends set. Do you mind if I drive? Or would you like to take separate cars?”

“I don’t mind riding you. I mean, with you,” she quickly corrected herself. He chuckled at her slip of the tongue.

He stepped outside and waited patiently as she secured her house for the evening out. She was excited about this fine specimen of a man driving her around Royal Oak.

She re-assessed what he was wearing and felt underdressed. When she saw his car, her insecurities struckeven harder. His freshly washed blue Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 made her white Ford Fusion look like a hoopty. He’s out of my league, she said to herself but let out an indicative sigh.

“Is there something wrong?” Aymil asked, sensing her change in demeanor.

“No. Not at all. This is just such a beautiful car,” Leela responded, climbing into the passenger side after Aymil opened her door. He closed it behind her and walked to his side of the car, noticing it was slightly ajar.

“Where I’m from, a woman opens the door for her date while she’s in the car or she’s not a keeper. What if someone tries to attack you and I leave the door closed? I could have helped you by having that door open, even if only for a split second.”

C. Lynette's Bio

"I was born by the river, in a little tent. And just like the river I been running, ever since. It's been a long. A long time coming but I know, a change's gon' come!" That opening line from Sam Cooke describes her life perfectly. C. Lynette was born in Northwest Indiana but raised in Southeast Michigan. She knew she was destined to write from the age of 9 when she was just submitting short stories to her elementary school newspaper.

Upon graduating from high school, C. Lynette turned her attentions to Journalism. She has had 17 articles published in various Michigan newspapers and even in the South Bend Tribune. It took 8 years, but she finally took a leap of faith and decided to write, with some encouragement from her friends and family.

Ebony Articles: Volume 1 was her debut book and was released on April 1, 2015 and was heavily dripped in erotica. The date itself has held significance to her for over 9 years and counting. The follow-up, Ebony Articles: Volume 2, was released on September 7, 2015. She was also given the opportunity to be apart of the Tyranny of Evil: Hearts of Men anthology (suspense, mystery, thriller), in which she wrote the short story Deadly Games.

C. Lynette lives in Indianapolis with her 4-year old son and works for the State of Indiana. She is the quintessential and epitomical definition of a true Aquarius. She has several books coming out including expansion on several short stories that were included in the EA series, a third Ebony Articles, a standalone untitled short, "The Curse" - a psychological urban thriller and "Deadly Games: Revisited"

Follow C. Lynette at these sites:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cgotti22

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writerclynette?fref=ts

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SUMMER'S HOPE: LATOYA MURCHISON

LaToya Murchison was born and raised in Southern Pines, NC and started writing poetry as a junior in high school.  LaToya found that writing allowed her to be creative and eventually discovered her interest in becoming a published author.  After graduating from high school and uncertain of her career path, she attended and received an Associate Degree In Office Systems Technology from Sandhills Community College in Pinehurst, N.C.

LaToya’s life has been filled with very colorful people and experiences. With the stress of battling health issues and the loss of loved ones in her life, LaToya found writing provided her with a source of therapy and healing. LaToya serves as Media Director and Children’s Ministry Assistant at Love Grove Free Will Baptist Church.

courtesy of www.latoyamurchison.com

Imani: Welcome to the Lounge. Let's start off with a simple icebreaker and begin with your story, just who is LaToya Murchison?

LaToya: Hi Imani and thank you for having me as a guest in your Lounge. I would describe myself as being seasoned and I say that because I am a mixture of many different things. I am a woman of God, a daughter, sister,  author, poet,friend, aunt, and caregiver to many.My passion is helping to build up and inspire others in everything that I do.  My life has not been easy and I have experience a lot of hurt, lost, pain, and sickness. The one thing that remined the same is God’s love for me. For most of my life dating back to when I was a young child I spent a lot of time in and out of hospitals and doctors offices. They never were really able to tell my parents what was wrong with me. At the age of 18 the doctors gave me what they thought was a death sentence and stated that I would not live to be 25 years of age. Little did they know God turned that death sentence into a life that I am still living almost 20 years later.  My hope is that God continues to use me as one of his chosen vessels to speak to his people about how good he is, and that he allows my life to be a living testimony.

Tell us more about your latest project. What's the inspiration behind this book?

My latest project is called Poetic Expressions which is a collection of poems that I have written over the years. Some of the poems are from my own personal experience and the rest family and friends asked me to write. For example the poem called Grandma was written on behalf of my sister after her grandma passed a few years ago. She asked me to write something that showed how much she loved and missed her. My sister is actually the one that pushed me into publishing this project because she said they needed to be shared with the world. She tells me all the time that my heart come out and shines through everything that I write.

Briefly, explain what makes your book different from the vast choices in the same genre?

What makes my book differentbfrom others in this genre is simple. They are my personal experiences and conservations that I had with others. My inspirational poems are my personal consetvations with God.

What were the challenges of writing this book?

The only challenge with writing my latest book was choosing which poems I wanted to include in the book. It was important  tomake sure that each poem fix my message and there was something everyone could relate too.

Everyone has a testimony and usually, that testimony is linked to some type hope. So, what’s your definition of this beautiful word?

At the age of 18 doctors stated that I would not live to see the age of 25. With God’s continue grace and mercy over my life I will turn 37 years old on August 2. Over the past few weeks my health has fallen but the hope that I have in God is what keeps me going. Hope is knowing that God has not given up on me and he has allowed me to live far longer than the doctors quoted to me. Hope is knowing this is just the beginning and not the end. Hope is knowing that though God’s I am healed and delivered because of his love, daily grace and mercy.

Tell me your hope in a few sentences.

My hope is that through sharing my past and present with others will encourage them to stand tall and walk into their futures knowing the best is yet to come. My hope is to be able to keep smiling and trusting in God no matter what I may face. My hope is to keep standing and shining when others say I should just give up.

Professionally or personally, where do you see yourself in five years?

In the next 5 year I see myself finally having my non-profit organization up and running which is called REACH Community Services. REACH Community Services is a organization that offers help to all persons in need. It was established with caring people, with innovative programs to empower men, women and children. We strive to inspire, enable and educate young people from all backgrounds and circumstances to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. REACH stands for (Respect*Encourage*Assist*Commit*Hope). I also see myself as a nationally known author who travels the world empowering and encouraging others.

Share with us, your motivating song that gets you going?

I Know Who Holds Tomorrow by Kelly Price

A Praying Heart

Excerpt:

Jesus

You woke me up this morning to have a better day. Instead of praising you I disobeyed you and at times I am not sure what I am supposed to do. The sound of your name rings in my heart and I hope that it never stops.

Lord I pray that you forgive me for all my sins. Forgive me for passing judgement on others. Teach me to have forgiveness in my heart for those who have mistreated me. As you lead me to the riverside to leave all of my trouble behind. I look to the future instead of my past. Thank you for blessing me with the talent to express my feelings through your loving words. Lord it took me a long time to realize my gift now that I have I promise to use it to uplift your people. Thank you for teaching me that I had to fall before I would be able to walk and stand tall. Lord thank you for being the lover of my soul and the joy in my life. When I was down you allowed me to sit on your shoulders until I was able to get up and stand on my own. Lord with all that I am I offer up this prayer today and every day to come in. You precious name. Amen

Find Latoya at these sites:

Instagram

Facebook

Twitter

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APRIL'S FEATURED ARTIST: DEE DEE M. SCOTT, PART II

Award-winning playwright and director, Dee Dee M. Scott is making a name for herself in the business with her vivid imagination and creative writing. In 2011, Scott exploded onto the scene with her Stage play- My Husband’s Woman, which toured South Carolina, and is based on her book. Within a month after the show premiered, it was brought back by popular demand and continues to successfully tour. In 2013, Scott was named as one of the 30 women considered to be very influential in a positive way for the generation Y women by Miss Millennia Magazine. She also won: The Golden Pen Playwright award, and Columbia Theater Review named her as: Playwright to Watch. Dee Dee's productions have graced theatre stages at: The Town Theater, S.C State Museum, Francis Marion University (Chapman Auditorium), CD Joyner Auditorium and more. With one encounter of Scott’s realistic productions, it is evident that this talented playwright has been blessed with a gift from God to entertain and inspire audiences.

Scott is also a film producer, screenwriter author and publisher. Eight authors are signed to her publishing company, Ahsyad Publication, and she adapted the screen play, Lake House, which is based on her book, and will play in select theaters soon. When Scott is not working, she enjoys running a talent agency and PR firm (Awesome Scott PR Group) with her husband, and heading her Non-Profit: Joseph & Kathy Gregg's Child, which she named after her parents, who both passed away from Cancer. The Non-profit teaches theater and acting classes to children, teens, and adults. Scott also founded: Authors On The Rise. The online site is dedicated to promoting authors and their books. In addition to being an entrepreneur, Dee Dee is a certified life coach and certified personal trainer. She is also a mother and a wife of 18 years. Born and raised in Florence, South Carolina, she now resides in Columbia.

Courtesy of DeeDeeMScott.com

Imani: Mrs. Scott, I am truly honored to have this interview. And from what I read from your bio, which is not only impressive, but inspiring to believe dreams do come true. So for those who aren’t familiar with your work, tell us a little about yourself?

Scott: Thank you for this, Imani. I am honored to be featured on your website.I am a mother, wife and down to earth lady who gives all the glory to Jehovah God and Jesus. I wear many hats. I am a playwright; film Producer, Publisher, author, entrepreneur, voice over actress, philanthropist and business woman.

For your writing process, how do you organize your storylines – outline by chapters or acts, or do you go with the flow?

I do a little bit of all of the above. Sometimes parts of the story or acts come to me and I outline those parts. At other times, I just go with the flow and let the characters drive the story.

How long have you been writing, and when was that “ah-ha” moment you knew you were a writer?

I have been writing since the age of six. That “ah-ha moment came shortly after the birth of my last son. I became ill and suffered with anemia. During the time I was recovering, I thought about all of the stories I had shelved, and all of the ideas and things that I wanted to do that I hadn’t done due to fear. I promised God that if I recovered I would never hide any of the talents he’d blessed me with. Once I was well, I hit the ground running.

You’ve written several books based on love and heartache, where do you find the inspiration to write these bestsellers?

Most of the stories come from my mind. I’ve always had a good imagination. However, I want my stories to be heartfelt and realistic so I mix in situations that could happen in real life.

The Tucker Series is a hit among readers. Share with us the premise of the series, and its characters.

The Sent From Heaven Series is about a powerful family (One sister and five brothers) named The Tuckers who head a successful Insurance company. To the outside world they appear perfect, but in reality they are all still hurting and devastated due to an incident that destroyed their childhoods. Sent From Heaven is a  romantic suspense series that will consist of five books, each featuring a Tucker family member on the rocky road to finding love and healing from the past.

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Another bestseller, My Husband’s Woman, is now a successful stage play. Was the transition difficult from converting the book into a play? And if so, how?

Yes, I had to study for quite some time on how to write a play. With a book, readers use their imagination to create images as they read the story. However, with the stage play, people would be watching live on stage. I had to be extra creative and create characters and situations that would keep them interested from start to finish.

You were named by Miss Millennia magazine as one of the 30 influential women. With all of the accolades and many credits to your resume; such as, film producer, screenwriter, and voice-over actress, you’re also a Publisher and CEO for Ahsyad Publication. What’s your company mission for its authors and readers?

Our mission is to create innovative stories with exciting twists that will keep the readers engaged from start to finish. While reading one of our novels, it is our mission to help you escape into another world filled with excitement and well-developed memorable characters. 

And speaking of film, you’ve adapted a screen play based on your book, Lake House, which will play in select theatres soon. And from what I understand it’s a psychological thriller, which I love by the way. How did the concept of this story developed?

I wanted to get out of the box and write something different. The screen play: Lake House had been in my head for quite some time. My husband, who is very honest with me about all of my projects, read the screen play along with some other investors. They loved it, and we moved forward with the production.  I don’t want to give too much away, but the plot is twisted and the main character is one of a kind crazy.

I'm looking forward to its release! It sounds intriguing. And speaking of your husband -- you and he have two nonprofits for great causes. Explain to the readers what these nonprofits entail.

Reading Through Cancer was the first ever EBook drive. It was created so that people who are suffering with cancer can have a book to escape to while in treatment or in recovery. Joseph & Kathy Gregg's Child was named after my parents who both passed away from Cancer. We have free workshops and classes that teach theater and acting to children and teens.

Mrs. Scott, you also founded “Authors on the Rise” – a website for promoting authors and their books. Which lead me to this question: What advice you have for up and coming or even the seasoned authors, who want to follow in your footsteps and create their own media empire?

Believe in yourself first, because there will be many people who do not understand your vision. Have a strong and determined mind. Study and do things daily to move you toward your goals. And that no is not the end. No just means you have keep going until you get a yes. And if you don’t get a yes, create your own yes.

After achieving success (and I know you’re far from finished), if you could go back and meet yourself as a novice writer, what advice would you share?

Keep writing, creating, studying and honing your craft even when it appears as if nothing is happening for you so that when the time does come, you will be ready. Flee from any negativity that may discourage you from following your dreams. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and lose the naysayers.

Every artist has that one person that has helped shape their craft. If the person who had influenced you were with us today, what would you say to them?

I would thank them. I had several key people who influenced me at a young age. I had two amazing English teachers: Mrs. Blackburn and Mrs, Usurer. I also had two college professors: Dr. Ann and Bret Breneman. Both are also authors. Mrs. Breneman always had me speak my poetry at the college she was teaching at, or other meetings she was a part of. That really shaped me and helped me to overcome being shy.  Mr. Breneman was the first person to look at one of my handwritten books when I was younger. He gave me so much encouragement and advice. He knew that I would be a writer before I did and encouraged me to study. I am so thankful to have had such influences in my life when I was developing as a writer.

And finally, what are the top five things on your bucket list?

I would have to say:

     1.)Teach at a college.

     2) I love psychology and the way the mind works, so I want to pursue a degree in that field.

     3.) Open my own film production studio.

     4.) Travel abroad and volunteer with my husband and children.

     5.) Bless other people and help them to achieve their dreams.

Thank you, Mrs. Scott for this awesome interview. If readers would like to know more about you and your stellar work, where should they go online?

www.addmsentertainment.com

www.deedeemscott.com

https://www.facebook.com/addmsentertainment

https://www.facebook.com/ahsyadpublicationbookreaders?ref=hl

https://www.facebook.com/TheLakeHouseMovie?ref=hl

https://www.facebook.com/pages/A-Dee-Dee-M-Scott-Production/118419694912934?ref=hl

My Husband's Woman

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MEET APRIL FEATURED ARTIST: DEE DEE M. SCOTT, PART I

Pink Noire is please to present April's Featured Artist,award-winning playwright, director,and author, Dee Dee M. Scott.

This is a big deal for The Lounge. So much so, that PN has dedicated two weeks of this CEO and philantropist's work in movies, stage, and literature for a full feature. 

So enjoy this synopsis from her latest book, Sent From Heaven 3. And be sure to come back next week for our in-depth one-on-one interview about Mrs. Scott's work, life, and what's in store for the future.

Sent From Heaven 3

On Sale Now

Synopsis

After a crime landed Xavier Tucker in prison for five years, and almost ruined his reputation, he swore off love. Free from jail, he is determined to avoid trouble at all cost. He is content traveling for Tucker Insurance, the multibillion dollar Insurance Agency he heads with his family. But when a business meeting takes him to Whitefield Kansas, the last thing he expects is a fierce tornado that causes him to get into an accident, and the irresistible woman who rescues him…
Widow Grace Evans is dedicated to preserving her late husband’s memory, and heading the ranch he left to her. When one of her horses causes an accident to happen near the farm, Grace has no choice but to rescue the injured man and take him to safety in her basement.
Once together, the attraction between Xavier and Grace is undeniable and the sexual chemistry is sizzling hot. Soon they succumb to their electrifying shared attraction. But it will take more than a few nights in a basement to heal Grace’s troubled past, and Xavier finds himself not only fighting for her love, but battling to remain in her life. Destiny brought them together, but it will take more than fate for their relationship to endure.

Kansas 2006

“The U.S. National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for Whitefield, Kansas. The storm will bring twisters, damaging winds and thunderstorms. Residents are advised to take cover.”

Half asleep, Grace turned onto her side. She hugged her handsome husband George. Soon, her tired body forced her into a deep slumber. Working at Blue Sky Ranch was hard and exhausting, but Grace loved every second.  With thirty horses to tend to, Grace and George never got a break until night time. Grace knew morning would come too soon. Even though Grace treasured the ranch, she loathed starting the day at four a.m. In no time, the sound of her light snores filled the room.

A loud boom jolted Grace from her snooze.  She wiped the sleep away from her eyes. Grace focused on the distraction coming from the weather radio.

 “All people are advised to take cover now!”

Sirens blared. The ranch home seemed to vibrate. Fear paralyzed Grace. She snapped from her shock. She shook George who was snoring beside her.  “Wake up!” She demanded.

“What is it, cookie?” George called her by her nickname.

Grace had no time to explain. A tree crashed through the bedroom window.  George hopped from the bed and wrapped his arms around Grace. He shielded her as the home ripped apart right before their eyes.

“To the bathroom!” George shouted.

“What about the horses?” Grace protested. “I can’t leave them.”

“We have no choice.” George’s eyes glowed with sadness. He hurried Grace into the bathroom. Once inside, he placed a blanket in the tub. He ordered her to get in.

“This isn’t safe,” Grace complained.

George inhaled deeply. “We don’t have time to make it to the outside basement.”

George appeared brave, but Grace saw fear in his eyes.

 “Trust me, cookie.” George caressed her cheek. “I’m going to protect you.”

Relenting, Grace did as George instructed. Inside the tub, he rested on top of her.

Grace’s mind drifted to happier times on the ranch. Memories played in her head like a picture show. Grace prayed the ranch would survive. It had been in George’s family for three generations.

                A loud explosion made Grace shudder. “I’m scared,” she cried into George’s arm.

“It’s going to be okay.” George soothed her. “I promise.”

 Grace tried to trust her husband, but she heard the house ripping apart. She cried out in fear.

“Do you remember the first time we met?” George interrupted her vexed thoughts.

 Grace felt terrified, but she managed a shaky smile. She appreciated George for trying to get her mind off of the awful storm.

“Yes.” She laughed.  “I was seventeen and had dreams of traveling the world. I told mama I wanted to leave Kansas. And what did she do? Sent me to stay with Aunt Ruth for the summer.  I was pissed that I was still in Kansas.”

George chuckled.

“Aunt Ruth tried to make me happy.” Grace smiled from the memory. “She sent me to the store for milk and eggs. Aunt Ruth promised me my thoughts about Kansas would change if I visited Blue Sky Ranch.  I didn’t understand how going to a store would help. When I walked into the store and I saw you…”

“You weren’t looking where you were going.” George finished the sentence. “You knocked over the crate of eggs and milk.”

 “You caused it.” Grace rubbed his hairy arm. “You looked so handsome I didn’t look where I was going.”

“You weren’t the only one mesmerized, baby.” George kissed her neck. “When I laid eyes on you, I couldn’t speak English anymore.”

Grace smiled and blushed.

 “You were and still are beautiful,” George praised her. “The most gorgeous woman in the world to me.”

Grace melted from his words, and then she chuckled. “Your mom was so angry at me for messing up the store. I thought she would throw me out on my head.”

George snuggled closer to her. “You’d better be glad I stepped in to save you,” he whispered softly against her ear.

 Grace jabbed him playfully in the stomach with her elbow. “By how? Offering me a job?”

“Yeah, you had to pay for the damage you’d caused at the store.”

“But I didn’t know the first thing about being a ranch hand.”

“I know,” George sighed.”I wanted to get to know you better. When you accepted the job, I had to teach you. That allowed us to spend time together.”

                 “By the end of the summer, my dream of traveling the world was gone.”

George smiled. “And I knew you would be my wife.”

Grace reminisced over the good old days again.  Her Aunt Ruth and her parents had passed away years ago. So had George’s father. Now, the only family they both had was George’s mother, Sarah. Sarah lived in a comfortable residence of her own up the road from them.

Another loud blast brought Grace from her memories.

George squeezed her tighter.  “I hope mom is okay.”

 “Your mother will be fine.” Grace reassured him. “Sarah is a smart, strong lady.”

George kissed her on the cheek. She felt his heart beating wildly.

“I love you, Cookie.” George whispered in her ear.

Grace kissed his hand. “I love …”

Before she finished the sentence, the entire house exploded. Grace experienced so much pressure and pain, she was knocked unconscious.

Grace cried out in agony as she came to. Her eyes opened. Everything was foggy. She felt lightheaded and befuddled. Her entire body pulsed with pain. She could not breathe. She comprehended she needed to get up from under the heavy weight pressing her down. As she began to wiggle for freedom, her heartbeat increased. At microwave speed, her memory returned. Her husband’s body was on top of her! There had been a terrible tornado! Scared and stunned, Grace called out to George.

No answer.

No thudding heartbeat.

Panicked, Grace shouted out for George again. Tears poured from her sockets. She worked her way from underneath George.  Once Grace was free, she noticed daylight breaking through the clouds. It took a few seconds for her to realize the entire house was gone. They were inside the bathtub and out in the open field. Ruble, metal and dead horses surrounded them. Grace’s heart ached from the surreal scene. However, her attention swiftly diverted back to her husband.

“George!” She screamed out his name and looked him over. An iron pole protruded from his back. “No! No! No! Oh my God! No!” She screamed.  With trembling hands, she turned him onto his side. His dilated eyes focused on her. The pole had not gone through him. It was lodged deep inside his torso.

George was gasping for air.

 Screaming, Grace begged him to hold on. “Please, baby, don’t you dare leave me. Do you hear me? Stay with me.”

George’s eyes rolled into his head.

“Our anniversary is next week.” Grace grabbed his face and kissed him. “We have to celebrate.”  Her body shook with sobs.

Fire trucks and ambulances blared in the distance. Grace knew it would be awhile before they got to them. She had to leave George and go for help. But before she could move, George grabbed her hand.

“No…don’t leave me,” George said, his voice strained.  “Don’t let me die alone.”

Grace felt her heart stop. George wouldn’t die. He couldn’t leave her. The thought of not having him made her feel sick and terrified. “You’re not gonna die,” Grace assured him. She squeezed his hand.

 George glued his eyes to hers. He tried to say something, but Grace shushed him. “Don’t talk. You’re gonna be okay. Please save your energy.”

Ignoring her, George called her name again. “Grace,” he mumbled, struggling for air. He squeezed her hand tight. “I…I got you an anniversary gift. I hid it.” He smiled weakly.

Grace would have smiled too if the situation had been different. George always hid the gifts he brought her. She had a bad habit of finding them before the time they were due.

George guided her tiny hand to his lips and kissed it.

“When the time is right, you will find my gift, sweetheart. Take care of mama. Promise me you will look after her.”

“I promise,” Grace sobbed.

“I love you… forever and always.”  George shivered and then his body went limp. His blank eyes stared up at her.

No movement.

No heartbeat.

No words.

Grace could feel the heat leaving his body. She noticed the glow fading away from his face. Life completely seeped from his body. All that remained was an empty, hollow shell. Her husband and first and only love was gone.

Grace screamed so hard her vocal cords ached. Tears soaked her face. Grace forced her lips to his for a last kiss. She knew this would be the final time she felt his warm mouth.

She was all alone.

To learn more about Mrs. Scott, her work, and her charities, visit her at these sites:

Dee Dee M. Scott website

Lake House Horror Movie

DDMS Entertainment

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