Monday, November 23, 2015

My Interview With Author Shani Greene-Dowdell ...11-23-15

Welcome Author Shani Greene-Dowdell

Thank you so very much for sharing with us today about yourself and your wonderful novels you have written  Author Shani Greene-Dowdell will be giving away to three of her readers a free read of any of her novels of your choice.  To find out how to receive  this offer please continue to read and follow the instructions below.

*******************


Hello Shani, would you please tell us about yourself…what would you like for your readers can to know?

I was born and raised in the small city of Tuskegee, Alabama, and I currently live in Opelika, Alabama, which is only about thirty miles away from my hometown. I am most thankful for the time that I spend with my adult children who are rapidly moving on with their lives. Yeah, I believe the empty nest syndrome is kicking in for me and I don’t like it one bit! In the near future, I would love to visit the Gulf Coast to sit on the beach and enjoy the last few days of warm weather.



How was life growing up and how did it affect your writing? 

Some of the earliest days I remember is the time when I lived in the Water Street Projects in Tuskegee. I used to have so much fun navigating those streets, even though there were several people that I was scared of, lol. I grew up fast in order to help take care of my siblings, because my mother worked a lot. Unlike children today, we didn’t have a lot of games and activities, so we had to be creative. I’m sure this helped build the creativity I have when writing.  



How do you come up with your hero/heroine that you write about in your novels?

The concept for every story I write develops from a single idea. It could be something as simple as a poem or song that I hear. While listening to it, I may imagine a couple together and their life’s dilemma, or a man who has certain mannerisms. I will take that thought and build until I have an outline for a story.



What do you think about standalone reads as compared to series of your novels?

I used to write standalones, where the reader could pick up any book out of a series and read it and have enough background information to enjoy the novel. However, the series that I write now are serials that should be read in sequence. I prefer to write series, so that when readers fall in love with a story it doesn’t have to end in one book.



When did you know that you wanted to become an author? What motivated you to become a writer?

When I fell in love with romance novels in 2003. I thought about how phenomenal it would be if I could create a story like the ones I was reading. After being challenged by a friend to start my first novel, I started writing and couldn’t stop.



What is your process when preparing to write a novel? 

I chose the title first. Then, I build on the concept by drafting an outline with chapter summaries. Then, I start filling it in chapter by chapter.



How long does it generally take you to write your novels?

The actual writing can take as little as one week if the book is flowing and I have few distractions.



Do you create your book covers or do you have help with them?  They all are simply all beautiful!

Thank you, and I wish I could design covers! I take that back, I did design the cover for Keepin’ It Tight, the e-book version. All of my covers are purchased from designers. I would shout them all out but I’ll surely forget someone.



Now, could I get you to list all of your books you are author of.... in order that you wrote them and the year that each one was published and may I also have the genres? Are they on Kindle format or paperbacks?




     Name of Novel

Date of Publication

Genre

Kindle

Paperback











Keepin’ It Tight


May 27, 2007

AA Romance

Yes

Yes

Mocha Chocolate: Taste a Piece of Ecstasy


March 29, 2008

Erotica

Yes

Yes

Secrets of a Kept Woman



September 8, 2009

Women’s Fiction

Yes

Yes

Mocha Chocolate: Escapades of Passion


July 29, 2010

Erotica

Yes

Yes

Savor: The Longest Night


March 27, 2013

Erotica

Yes

Yes

Secrets of a Kept Woman 2


April 29, 2014

Women’s Fiction

Yes

Yes

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year


November 19, 2014

Christmas Romance Anthology (Short Stories)

Yes

No

Breathless
  

January 8, 2015

Multicultural Romance

Yes

Yes

Secrets of a Kept Woman 3


February 23, 2015

Women’s Fiction

Yes

Yes

Breathless 2


March 5, 2015

Multicultural Romance

Yes

Yes

Breathless 3


July 6, 2015

Multicultural Romance

Yes

Yes

The Billionaire Wives Club


October 9, 2015

Multicultural Romance/Women’s Fiction

Yes

Coming soon to Paperback.

  
                   
 **** New Novel by the Author Shani****


The Billionaire Wives Club 2: A BWWM Romance Tuesday,  December 9, 2015 

                              ************************** 

Do you have a co-author that you write/or work with?  
I have collaborated with Theresa Hodge on The Billionaire Wives Club series. After editing some of her work and her helping me with scenes in the Breathless series, we realized that we were pen twins, so we challenged ourselves to write a novel together. That was the beginnings of our collaboration for The Billionaire Wives Club.


Do you have a favorite romance author [beside you] smile?

Yes, I love Darrien Lee’s writing style and the eroticism she includes within a great storyline. I also am a recent fan of DJ Parker’s multicultural romance series.



NOW, which novel above would you consider your favorite and why?

I would have to say Breathless, part 1, is my favorite. While I love the entire series, part 1 banged with the love scenes, emotional turmoil and a cliffhanger that left everyone in suspense.



Have you ever tried writing poetry?

Yes, I have a few pieces J



What would you like the readers to take from your novels?

I will just insert a quote here, “Don’t get upset because it’s over, smile because it happened.” If my readers can smile and repeat this quote and feel good about it after reading one of my novels then I’m one happy writer.  



What message do you have for an aspiring author?

Never underestimate the power of the rewrite. Rewrite. Rewrite. Rewrite. You may think that you have a polished manuscript, but if it’s your first time out the gate and you haven’t reread and rewrote it it at least 30 times then you have more work to do. Hey…thirty rewrites might not be the case for everyone, but I suggest you come close to it.

       

What was the most difficult aspect of writing your novels?

Life gets in the way. Finding time to actually sit and write in peace and quiet is a challenge.



After reading reviews of your novels, how have your reviews helped you after reading them?

Whoa, reviews! Let me just say that some of my reviews have whipped me into shape and I appreciate the constructive criticism so much. While other reviewers have left me wondering if they need a hug after reading my books. I kid, but I’m thankful for all of my readers. Every writer hates getting bad reviews, but sometimes it’s those reviews that help you get right the next time. For instance, when I read that some readers thought Jacob wasn’t alpha enough in book 1 of Breathless, I strengthened his character in book 2.  



How much, if any, of what you write is based on your personal/real life experiences?

I’d have to say that in some way, every book I write draws from my experiences. Every character has a part of me living within them, whether big or small. The Secrets of a Kept Woman series actually drew out some of my childhood pain, which became the backstory for Rhonda’s character.



Do you write while listening to music ...if so....who may we find you listening to?

I like to write in total and complete silence, so I can channel in to what the characters are saying and doing.



Have you ever just walked away and not finished a story if you cannot get a hold of the storyline the way you like?

Yes.



What's next for you?

Complete The Billionaire Wives series and I’m excited about working on a one-book spinoff of Breathless that will be Montie’s story.



Do you belong to any 'Book Clubs?' other than Arlena's Reading with Friends Book Club [smile]. If so would you like to share it with us?

SBS Book Club in Columbus, Georgia.



What may the reader find you doing when you are not writing your novels?

I became a grandmother this year and my two grandsons fill my heart with so much joy, so you would probably find me somewhere being goofy for smiles from my boys.



Where can we follow you?








      Excerpt from Secrets of a Kept Woman 3



“Wait a minute!” Antonio said as he angrily tossed the DNA papers to the ground. “This can’t be right. I am not that child’s father!”

Antonio could do all of the arguing and fussing that he wanted to do, but according to the State of Georgia, Rhonda’s child carried his DNA. While he stood in front of me fuming, I stood quiet and emotionless with my arms flaccid to my sides. It was as if I couldn’t think, move or act. “Numbers don’t lie,” I told him, disappointed in both him and the results.

“I am not that child’s father,” he said, standing beside the mailbox in the spot where I had screamed to the top of my lungs when I opened the letter.

Numb, I walked to the porch in a trance. “Whatever you do Antonio, don’t try to make a fool out of me,” I warned.  “Those numbers say there is a ninety nine point nine percent chance you are the father of Rhonda’s child,” I added solemnly.

“That isn’t my baby! Shayla, you have to believe me,” Antonio said, as part of his Hispanic roots permeated into his English as he spoke. 

“Save it, Antonio!” I said to the man I loved, the man I married and thought I would cherish for the rest of my life.

“The test must be a false positive or something, honey. I never slept with Rhonda.”

“Oh, how I want to believe you. I want to be able to trust you, Antonio.”

“Just do it. Trust me, with all your heart. Trust the man you married and know that I would never do a thing like this.” He placed a hand on both of my shoulders and turned me to face him. “This woman has been nothing but a thorn in your side. Don’t let her win. We have to stick together until we get this figured out.”

I went into the house, completely annoyed by the entire ordeal. Standing in the kitchen looking at the DNA letter, I glared at Antonio. “I don’t see how you can deny this.”

“It looks like I am guilty of cheating on you, I know this. The evidence is stacked against me, but I need you to believe in me for a minute. When I say…” Antonio walked over to me and turned my face toward him. “…when I say I did not have sex with Rhonda, it is the truth. I mean think about it. I didn’t even know what city she or Titus were living in, much less how to contact her. Think back nine months ago. Think back night by night. I was here. With you. As long as we have been married, I have never been out of pocket.”

Logically, what he said made sense. “But, the DNA test…”

“Is a lie,” Antonio finished my sentence.

I wanted to believe him, but the last man I trusted was indeed having an affair with Rhonda. My buzzing cell phone gave me a much needed out. “I have to answer that,” I said, picking my cell phone up and walking away. “Hello.”

“Hi, Shayla. This is Mrs. Jackson.”

“Oh, hi Mrs. Jackson.” I was surprised to get a call, at this moment, from Rhonda’s mother. “What up?”

“I know my daughter has put you through a lot this past week. That is why I’m calling. There is more to the story.”

“The DNA papers came in the mail today,” I told Mrs. Jackson.

“About that, I was at Rhonda’s apartment this morning helping her take care of the baby when I overheard her talking to a lady named Chandra from the Forge Sperm Bank.”

“Why would Rhonda be talking to someone from a sperm bank?” Shayla asked.

“She asked Chandra if anyone found out about some missing sperm. They were also talking about how to get child support. I pieced together the conversation and figured out that she got Antonio’s sperm from Forge.”

“Thanks for that, Mrs. Jackson,” I said ending the call in shock. “Shut the front and back door!”

“What did she say? What are Rhonda and her mother up to now?”

“Have you ever given sperm to a sperm bank named Forge?”

“No…well yeah, but that was back in my younger days when I needed cash for school. What does that have to do with…?” Antonio paused as the reality of what I asked hit him. 

“Mrs. Jackson thinks it’s possible Rhonda got your sperm from Forge.”

We stared at each other for the longest time in shock. “How could that happen?” Antonio asked.

“She knew someone who worked there. They must have given it to her,” I said looking at him regretfully.

“This is un-freaking-believable baby. How did she know I had sperm there? Why would she do something so crazy?” Antonio asked, as his mind took in all the possibilities.  

“I do not know,” I said as I looked at Antonio with regret. “I’m so sorry for doubting you when I should have been on your side.”

“I would be upset with you, but I am not sure I would have reacted any differently if DNA showed Tyler to be another man’s son. The worst part of this is that I have to live knowing she has a part of me in her child and that she plans to use that against you.”

I felt so betrayed. “I wanted things to be different with Rhonda this time. I prayed she had changed."

                          ********************************************


        Prize Giveaway from Author Shani Greene-Dowdell


I will give away a free book to 3 of my readers, your choice paperback or Kindle version. You can choose either of Shani’s published books. How can you win a book? Glad you asked! You, the reader, must leave the answer to this question: “How many book series has Author Shani Greene-Dowdell completed?"  

Please leave your name, your email, the answer, along with the name of the novel you would like to read  below in the comment area and Shani author will choose from the list and let you know if you were picked. 

All answers should be complete with all information above by Wednesday, December 30, 2015.  This is when the author will pick three winners and email you letting you know you won one of her novels.  [This date has been extended from December 14th.... two more weeks] by the author.
                                                 
                               *******************************************

Thank you, thank you Shani for sharing with us.  Your novels are truly a work of art with lovely book covers and so beautifully well written.  I am proud to say I have read all of Ms. Shani's novels and I highly recommend them to all readers to will pick up her novels and see for yourself how well they are presented to the readers.  

To see all my reviews please check out my blog page under this author's name [Shani Greene-Dowdell]. Here is my blog page: Arlena's Book Reviews  http://arlenasbookreviews-arlenadean.blogspot.com.

   


and Happy Reading!

Saturday, May 9, 2015

Today, May 10, 2015 ...Interview with Author Janice G. Ross... HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

                           Let's Welcome Author Janice G Ross!

Ms. Ross will be offering a Free Kindle Read... see how you may receive this at the end of this interview.

Hello Janice.. would you please tell us about yourself.. such as what would you like for your readers to know about you? 
                                              JANICE G. ROSS'S Bio..........


Janice Ross was born in Guyana, South America and migrated to the USA in 1980. Although her citizenship certificate now reads the United States of America, she considers herself a citizen of the world. Sure she has not physically been around the world and back, but she’s traveled in her mind and dreams.


Janice is an author. She enjoys writing about social issues and personal experiences. Janice’s debut release was entitled Damaged Girls. She uses the three books in that series to detail the effects of different forms of abuse, discussing issues that are known to be taboo. Her next release, Jumping Ship, is a dedication to her country of birth and an introductory novella to the Island Hopping Series. It is a colorful and emotional experience of life, love and family. As of present, she is also a contributor to a short story collection – Just Between Us, Inspiring Stories by Women. Loving Nate, a novella about the realities of losing one’s self to love. And most recently, Jezebel Jones, an expose about true love.


Janice enjoys reading. And is drawn to stories with distinct characters that she can love or hate, characters she can form alliances with or characters that she can swear off and despise. She is also weak for a good cultural tale, preferably in the form of historical fiction. Janice loves to be taken off guard by clever language and settings.


You may connect with Janice at:



                                                  Websites: www.culturalcocktails.com



                                             Blog: http://myculturalcocktails.wordpress.com




&

continuing on....

What did you want to be when you grew up besides being a writer and when did you know that you wanted to be a writer/author?
I've always known that I wanted to be a writer.  I've always scribbled, expressed myself and gotten lost in mountains of stories. Though I stepped away for a while, I eventually came back to where my heart was meant to be.

How did you get started as a writer?

I published my first book at the end of 2112. I encouraged myself and prayed for guidance on a daily basis.


What's the best thing about being a writer?
The best thing about being a writer is connecting with readers. I write from a very deep place that seeks to transport emotions to readers. This is what keeps me pushing on.
Where do you like to read for pleasure? Can you name the readers a few books you have on your currently to-read pile?
I enjoy reading day and night, in bed or out and the park. As long as I'm enjoying the storyline, I'm in seventh heaven. As for my current TBR list, it includes:

Destined by Perri Forrest

Love's Culture III by Angelia Vernon Menchan

Tethered Angel by TM Brown

Gin and Brimstone by Brit McGinnis
 How was life growing up and how does it affect your writing? How do you come up with your hero/heroine that you write about in your novels? What do you think about 'Standalone Reads' and as compared to 'Series - Book 1' as you write your novels? 
Growing up was a tremendous experience. My family life dynamic was unique in that I was raised as a Guyanese child in the US. I paid close attention to the differences amongst my own cultural background and the one surrounding us. Moreover, I grew up around others from countries around the world. I valued, and still value, the differences.
My heroines are based on females I'm familiar with or personalities I've come in contact with. In some cases, these heroines are closely based on me.

I don't mind stand-alone or series books. I'm only concerned about reading a captivating story.

Could I get you to give the readers a list all of your books you have published and the order that you have written them? [The publication dates may be found on Amazon].

Janice,  I am glad to say I have read most of your novels...and I have added  my reviews/or book descriptions from your novels for your readers....
              1
 Damaged Girls I 

Book Description...."Be warned… Romance is not at the heart of Damaged Girls. This series revolves around contemporary issues in families and relationships. Steven Briggs is thirty-five, gorgeous and partially successful as an auto shop owner-wannabe. He loves women – young women to be exact. Moreover, he is not above manipulating any situation to have the women he wants. Independent twenty year old Jillian McConnell was once lucky to be a part of his world. Since Stevie was the only man to ever shatter her rough exterior, he knows that she would always keep coming back for more. But Jillian is only good enough some of the time. When the sensual Jessica Rodney comes of age, Stevie is enthralled. He shuns the older part time model, for the time being. But is Jessica’s liveliness enough to sustain Stevie? Or will he keep turning back to the sensible relationship of his past, since he can always make Jillian believe that she should readily be a willing participant in this triangle. Damaged Girls is a complicated novel about the choices and outcomes, associated with the mistakes we make over time."

                      2
Damaged Girls II

What I received from this read....

This author really gives the reader a lots of tragedy and heartbreak as the story continues from "Damaged Girls I"  with all the drama that was caused by Stevie and his women.  I liked how this author was able to give the readers such a intriguing story showing the dysfunctional drama involving some very interesting characters where friendships will be tested.  All of this will greatly bring out to the reader the emotional makeup of a damaged girls dealing with their traumatic events of their past in this doomed triangle.   I found this a very interesting read about this predator who was a very sick and twisted person.  As I was reading through this story I couldn't help but to wonder what  tragedy will their be for a certain  character and what can have been  done to keep these type of people out of  their daily  life's?  Now, I don't want to spoil it so I will say at this point you will have to pick up the novel and see for yourself how this author presents to the reader.  I will say this author really knows how to speak her mind and give the reader something very important to know and think about. 


                        3
Jumping Ship (Island Hopping)

What I liked About "Jumping Ship"....

I found "Jumping Ship" a very good read that once you start it you will find it hard to put down.  I loved how this author was able to pull her readers into the story and more over connect them with the characters.  Also you can tell that this author really loved this country because of all the detailed  description of it all near the Caribbean area as she brings us a good read.  This was a love story with lots of mystery...as we follow a married woman and her lover and since this is a beginning of a series I am sure we will get a lots more.  This is quite a read of a woman's strength in how she had dealt 'with an abusive husband, self awareness and love.'  I will say that that part of the read was not pretty

but then Petrina meets Mikey.  I don't want to give any of it away and spoil it for you...Just pick up this amazing read to see for yourself how this author brings it all so well to the readers.    There seems to be three parts to this story where you will see it all told with  such a intriguing captivating way as the story  unfolds.  If you are looking for a good romance novel you have come to the right place for "Jumping Ship" will give  you in a well written heart warming love story that start this series.

                      4
Just Between Us, Inspiring Stories by Women 
[Janice Ross] is one of the authors 
What I liked from this novel....

I enjoyed reading from these six good author's... their version of 'Life.'    They all really had some inspiring short stories about their personal and important moment in their lives that were a good encouragement to all who reads for it. Be ready for a stories  of "self doubt, challenges and disappointments." 

 I found each author anthology  had its own unique and personal message with such a deep lesson that was learned from their own particular  lives.  Each ones life's weren't perfect but they were able to rise above it all so well....and look at them now definitely having over come   the odds.   I believe each of these author showed that they wrote from their heart with each  intimate story showing such emotions that can be conquered.  These are definitely stories that can be related and pass on to others who are dealing with such issues such as 'hardships, love, conflict, loss, redemption and the salvation through God's healing love."   

                              5                                    Damaged Girls III           
                                                                                                                         

What I liked from this read......

Wow! What a read.  This was this author's third urban fiction that dealt with 'Damaged Girls' and it was indeed a interesting journey especially for Julian and  Jessica.   I will miss these characters plus a few more  because they brought a lot to this captivating series, especially II and III.  I was especially happy to  see some growth from  a few of the main characters as they take and gain control of their own life's that was so important for them to have by the closing  of this story.









            6
Loving Nate
What I liked about this read....

I thought this novel was a very thought provoking read that definitely caught my attention from this novella from start to finish.   This author really does a wonderful job with her well descriptive writing showing all the emotional sides of this thing called love.  The two main characters were both richly developed, however, one seemed to change after some time which leaves one to wonder why.  This was a intriguing read as you find both people seeming to be very much  in love and then later one seems to put away.  You could be lead to think maybe  they weren't on the same emotional level even though their romance seemed very hot at the beginning.

"Loving Nate" even gets more interesting as this author will gives the reader two alternating endings which I will say are even more intriguing being thought provoking and definitely probable. Will it be option one or two?   Now, you will have to pick up "Loving Nate" to see how  this author brings it to the reader and  then you can choose your desired ending.

What I especially liked about the read....

"Loving Nate" will definitely give one reason to ask the question why is  it important who you fall in love with and what they can do with that love...will it be something they want forever or will it just be thrown away at their convenience?    When I stopped  and thought about this read  I realized it is a good real story that can happen to many of us every single day.  This is a excellent story that you could learn from.  The option is definitely ours to choose.  Be ready for a very captivating read that will leave you with some interesting thoughts. 

                             7    Island Hopping-Trinidad & Tobago
                                        What I liked about this novel....
                   
"Trinidad and Tobago" was a very well written story of Sakkara Riley who wanted so badly to find her true roots. This novel was the second in this author's series...'The Island Hopping.'  We find from the read that this author puts in quite a bit of research in putting this novel together as there will be a search from New York to some beautiful countries as this 'Island Hopping' will go...France, Trinidad & Tobago.  There will be some very interesting characters that will be presented that are well developed, well portrayed and even believable giving this read such a read that you will not want to put it down until the end.. only to be left wanting more!
Being adopted and wanting to find your birth mom and in the end will Sakkara's journey be for nothing? And to find out that your adopted mom ....well this is where I will say you must pick up the novel to get the whole story as it will be well presented to the reader.  I found the read somewhat complexed but very engaging as you follow the story of Sakkara's family history as it comes out.  Be ready for some twist and turns on this journey!  How this author was able to bring out the island's culture was done so beautifully.

Will Sakkara find out just 'who she is and  where she came from' as she searches for answers as Sakkara's journey continues on in this author's next novel. ...'Island Hopping:  Grenada?'
                                   

               8-9                                                                                                                              

Samaria: Warrior Princess
Samaria: Vampire Queen 
  [Paranormal  Reads]                          
   
                        10
Mysticism & Myths (My contribution is Carnem Levare)

A MUST READ FOR FANS OF THE MYSTERIOUS WORLDS OF GHOSTS, SEA DWELLERS & SHAPESHIFTERS!

"Have you ever wondered about different myths of the world? These include the stories that so many cultures live by and the ones that of the best movies are based upon? You do know that these interesting concepts haven’t just appeared out thin air, right?
Introducing Mysticism & Myths, a sampler by six authors of varying genres. Each author has chosen a legend or culture from various regions, and embellished the details. Webs have been spun, and fantasies have been built in an effort to deliver to a collection that is sure to be entertaining.
The worlds captured in these stories are many! From ghosts and vampires to sea dwellers and shapeshifters, and even ancestral rebirths! There's something for everyone."

This is definitely a collections of  different short  Paranormal stories.... with novella featuring ...
Carnem Levare  By Jaxx Summers  "We are born, live and eventually leave the mortal world."  

What I liked from this novella...

I found "Carnem Levare" a novella a very interesting read about  Stefano and Anastasia.  We find Stefano only wanting to be loved.... with the 'after and forever' from Anastasia but will he get it?

Janice, at this point I will point out to the readers that your author alias [alter ego] is Jaxx Summers. 


                     11


Jezebel Jones

What I liked about this novel...

This was a very enjoyable passionate read about Jezebel Jones is finally finding herself.  Not wanting to be hurt Jezebel  wants no drama and fuss in her life by denying herself of any pleasures when it came to love.    Thinking by having a back up friend that was their for her just in case she never found her special person, however, what will happen when this person does come into her life?  How will her back up friend take this situation and how will her new friend take to the back up friend?   The answers to these questions and so much more will be answered in this well written love story. This author really knows who to keep the readers attention  with such a thought provoking read as you will be drawn into this story with some very interesting characters.  I loved how this author presented this  interracial relationship and how it was dealt with along with the issues with the  back up best friend.

All of these above reviews can be found on: Arlena's blog page:  Arlena's Book Reviews...http://arlenasbookreviews-arlenadean.blogspot.com under the title and author's name.


Janice.... Which of your novels would you say is your favorite and why?
I can't really say that I have a favorite. I love my novels for different reasons. 

 Have you ever tried writing any Poetry?

I actually do write poetry. I started out writing poetry at a very early age, in order to channel my emotions.
 Do you have a Blog page if so what will we find on it?     
I have several blogs. My main blog was shut down by WordPress last year, and since then I've been less interested in putting much time and effort; however, I'm slowly building back to blogging. I believe in supporting other authors. My blog includes author promos, reviews and personal reflection.
 Are you a self publisher? Is so, what is that process like? If not, who is your publisher?
I self publish through Cultural Cocktails.

 What would you like the readers to take from your novels?

Although I want to entertain, I want readers to reflect on life.
What is the best thing about being a writer? What does that mean to you?
The best thing about being a writer is the time spent writing and developing stories that are capable of speaking to readers.

What is your favorite word and why and your least favorite word and why?

To select a favorite word is too limiting; however, to select a least favorite word is the dreaded "N" word.
What was your very first book you ever read that you truly loved?
The first book I read and love was Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. It was one of many British Lit books I read on an annual basis. I would read and re-read each year, and use a dictionary to build my vocabulary and gain a better understanding of the written word.
Do you have a favorite sentence from any of your books? If so, what is it?

“And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”  – The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Please share with us of your writing process...ex. Do you write while listening to music ...if so....who may we find you listening to?
I write as stories come to me, which is quite often. I watch television, listen to music, or remain silent. The words in my mind tend to guide me above all else. However, there are times when I get swept away by the words of a song, especially when they connect with my writing. 
What genres do you love to read and what five books favorite novels would I find stacked on your book shelf that you have read?
I read in just about every single genre. I'm currently looking at one of my book shelves and see:


Northern Lights by T. Rico

The Zahir by Paulo Coelho

Love Invents Us by Amy Bloom

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

See Me by Adrienne Thompson
 What Authors do you admire and why?
I admire Angelia Vernon Menchan for her boldness with words.

I have much respect for Barbara Joe Williams for her vast knowledge with this industry.

I see that you are in a 'Book Club'... Arlena's Reading  with Friends which is on Facebook where you can go in and share what you are working on.  I believe there are around 75 members and it is wonderful to have you on board.

What would you like your readers to know that they may not know about you?


I get very emotional when each new book releases. This includes shedding a tear and sinking into my own mind for a brief period of time.

What may the reader find you doing when you are not writing and working on your novels?
When I'm not working on my own novels, I might be editing or critiquing for other authors.

What advice would you give other aspiring writers about your writing in general? 

Writers need to read other books, even books about writing and developing their craft.

What advice and motivation would you give a reader who would like to become a writer/author?
Don't compare yourself to anyone else.

Please tell us what you are working on at this time and can we expect a release date soon/or any other thing(s) you would like for your readers to know about you and your books.
I have several books in the works:

Island Hopping-Grenada

Jezebel Jones 2

Samaria 3 (Jaxx Summers)

Silent Fury (Creative Nonfiction)

And several untitled words...
Please tell us about your latest novel and how you think people are responding to it?

My latest release is Jezebel Jones. It's about letting go of doubts and insecurities to allow love to grow. So far, it's been well received.
How do you relate to how your readers respond to reviews of your novels …..pro and cons?
I've received both positive and negative reviews. I once for torn apart emotionally by a negative reviewer. The words were hurtful and downright cruel. I had to realize that not everyone will be able to connect with my stories. Moreover, I put pieces of myself into my work and I'm thankful for everyone that see that...for everyone that supports it.

Do you prefer paperbacks or e-books for your novels?

I prefer paperbacks, but have been collecting more e-books because they are easier to house.
Please leave us a excerpt from your any of your novels that you think the readers would enjoy.

                                                ***Excerpt of Jezebel Jones***
I havent been in a relationship for a long time.

You've dated though, right?

If thats what youd call it. I've gone out. Tried to make connections out of dead wires. Nothing took life.

Why do you think that is? Aidan led Jezebel to a bench that faced the waters. His dark cinnamon hair blew just enough to garner her attention. As earlier, he carried a special light, drawing the two of them together. She yearned to run her fingers along his face and reach up to gather a fistful of locks.

It had been a long time since Jezebel felt comfortable and relaxed in the presence of the opposite sex, with the exception of Jason. Aidan was stimulating and tantalizing. And she didn't need to give herself a pep talk to put up with him. Without a second thought, she started to open up.

Like any other human being, Id like to belong to someone. Just not anyone. She spat out the final term, it was bitter to even consider settling at this stage of her life.

Okay . . . Aidan rubbed up and down the back of her hand, trailing round to the center of her palms.

But I cant take deception, cheating, mean men—” Jezebel shifted. Her explanation was labored as she revealed her vulnerabilities.

You've experienced all of that in every relationship?

Its not that, but the minute I see the potential for those things, I run.

So youre operating out of fear?

More like common sense.

But have you taken the time to validate your suspicions or confirm that what you believe to be red flags are actually warnings?

Hed taken it too far. She felt like she was on an episode of Dr. Phil. For the first time since he took hold of her palm on King Street, she finally let go. Not only was her hand sweaty, but reasoning fled and with it her words.

He didn't try to force her hand back into his, instead only stared. His smile was seductive; in fact, he appeared calm. Just then, a purple flower drifted into her hair. At a loss for all forms of interaction, she dared not remove it. She only hoped to be blown away, far up the stream, to a place where a mans superpowers were of little effect. If only she was that lucky. Instead, the day was shaping up to be pick on Jezebel day.

Im ready to go back to the office. Escaping was the best way to go. Aidan had read her story in a matter of minutes. Jezebel had to end it fast, although there were still at least thirty minutes remaining in their date.

Aidan stood, reached up to her hair and brushed aside the flower. Before she could say thank you, his lips found their perfect mate. She gasped and pulled away, instantly reeling from a bolt of static.

Dont tell me you dont kiss either? Now his head was slanted as he taunted.

Actually, I dont.

Jezebel, youre one of a kind. Lets get you back to work.


As they approached Jezebels office she decided that from this point on, Aidan would be off limits. Their silent walk was deafening. He hadn't  taken her hand again, so she hoped to avoid further embarrassment from this point on."

Janice,  I am sure that FOR ALL OF YOU WHO HAVEN'T READ JEZEBEL JONES WILL WANT TO READ IT NOW!!  THANK YOU FOR SHARING!   This was one of my favorite part of the read!


                        *************************************************


 Janice, I see you have a FREE Kindle read.....for your readers.....
                                  To receive a FREE Kindle read 

of Loving Nate (2) 



or Jezebel Jones (2)



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Just  leave your name and Facebook  or Twitter info for contact purposes. Otherwise, you can  comment below and then send your email address.   This will run until the end of May, 2015.
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Janice, I would like to Thank you so very much  for this interview today.  I wish you many blessings  in your writing for your readers and since this is Mother's Day, May 10, 2015,  I would like to wish you a wonderful  day!

Please feel free to leave comments below that you would like to share with Author Janice G. Ross.    

My Interview with Author Jennifer Latham. December 17, 2017th On Her Novels....Scarlett Undercover and Dreamland Burning

It is a pleasure to have this interview with you.  When I met you back in March of 2017 at Barnes, I knew I would love to have a interview ...