Monthly Archives: March 2020

Author Interview, Meet The Author: ‘Street Lit King’ De’Kari!! #amreading

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De'Kari's photo (2)Alright, alright UK and world wide  people let’s welcome De’Kari! We’re kicking off March’s Meet The Author by heading over to the West coast of the USA. Yasssssss we have another author from this part of the world, who I’m happy to have met, and to have read their work. I’ve personally dubbed him one of the ‘Street Lit Kings‘ as  I  found his work very engaging. I read Gorillaz in the Bay last month, and ya’ll know I don’t really read this genre. But, I really enjoyed it you can read the full review here.

From what I understand Author De’Kari has been causing quite a storm in the land of urban fiction, and scooped up nominations, titles/awards. Let’s get to know his style….

Hello nice to meet you! Tell us a bit about you where are you from and other than writing what else do you enjoy?

Hello, my name is Author De’Kari. I am from Menlo Park, the Bay Area of California. I love spending quality time with family, fishing, sports, rapping and writing music.

Kim- Fishing?? *Pulls a funny face* well, I’m surprised! I never would have imagined you sat with a fishing rod, kicking back and waiting for a good catch.

How did you start writing? What was your inspiration to create?

I discovered my passion during my childhood when doing creative writing in school. My inspiration for creating these stories were my experiences and things I saw growing up.

Who is your favourite author, is there anyone out there that inspires you?

K’WAN, Kwame, Ca$h, Terri Woods & Terry McMillan – I enjoy their style of writing and I don’t get bored. They all inspired me as well as my loved ones.

Kim- Love Terry McMillan yes!

What genre do you enjoy reading?

Romance, Suspense Thriller, love Western’s, Murder Mysteries, Urban Fiction.

Kim- Arrrgh really? Mmmkay… that’s interesting I write fifty percent of that genre list there. *Cheesy grin* 

How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?

I now take in consideration what my readers suggest from their reviews and feedback.

So you’ve published a series, what is the series about?

The rise and struggle of a Bay Area drug organization.

What was it like creating back to back stories that link?

After the first story, the ideas for the next one was fresh in my mind. It was easy linking them together.

Kim- Wozers, you know I really take my hat of to you series writers who can link stories. I’ve ever really been good at that. I have created a series…but standalone stories… with the same theme…. sooooo not the same. Well done you!

Where did you draw your inspiration for the plot in Gorillaz In The Bay?

Real life experiences.

Kim- I really think readers should check that out I really enjoyed it, and that’s from a  non-traditional reader of the street lit genre. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at the reality, and clever plot. My full four star review is here.

It’s interesting that you used females ‘the she-wolves’ as female assassins and key players in GITB. What made you decide to have a female line up of this nature?

In many urban novels the men dominate, so I wanted to do something different. I grew up around women that were strong, leaders and knew how to handle themselves on the streets the same as any man.

Kim- was great reading, raw! But great.

How do you ensure when it comes to street lit as a genre, your stories are realistic and believable ? I must say, I found GITB to be very believable. There is a great deal of reality in my stories.

Things I saw growing up.

In your view, what would you say are the strengths of this genre? Why should readers consider it to read?

For so long no one ever told our story, stories of the hood. The authors I am familiar with (including myself), we are writing about true events and turning it into fiction. I think they are good-reads because of the creativity that goes into them.

In your view are there any weaknesses, or things to improve on in this genre?

The way a lot of male authors portray women in unrealistic role an demean them.

Kim- *takes a deep breath* Yeah, I kinda gotta agree. As a female this is the biggest turn off for me as a reader of this genre. And that’s probably the biggest reason I’ve kinda not really dived into it as a reader, which is a massive shame as I’m a big reader. But, what I have found is that the older or more mature the author is, the better I can  read and engage with their work. I found this with you, and with another male author. In all honesty, I do think the genre has some work to do to help improve  how women are portrayed. It’s interesting you used the word ‘unrealistic’, I’m glad someone else thinks so. 

Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre? If you could what genre would you like to dabble in?

Romance, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Suspense Thrillers and maybe Black Westerns.

Kim *grins* yeah I’d read all that if you did.

What has been your most proud moment as an author?

The moment I had one of my books in my hand and the first time someone I didn’t know told me they read my book.

Was there ever a time you wanted to pick up your laptop, and then launch it out the window with frustration?

Due to my situation all my writing is done by hand with a pencil. There have been several times out of frustration that I have torn the pages up and started over.

Kim- You’re the second author in about two weeks that has given me that same response! Salut to you!!

Are you a “plotter” or a fly by the seat of your pants “pantster” as a writer?

Fly by the seat.

Am I the only one who gets hung up on commas? Do they make you go blah! when you’re writing?

Not really, I was kind of a nerd in school, so it doesn’t bother me.

Kim- I hate you!

Every writer has a word(s) that they always slip up on when they write, then slap their forehead when they notice their typo. For me it’s further and farther exit or exists-  but hey I’m over it now.  Do you have a word (s) that make you go blah! Go away not another damn typo.

The words than and then, I correct many times.

What three tips would you give any aspiring writer?

Follow your passion, work hard and do lots of promoting. Write what’s in your heart, never give up or let someone change your story but you must be open to critical and constructive criticism.

Kim- Amen to that.

What are you working on now? What will you release next?

I have a 2-book series, the first one to be released in March 2020 called Tears of a `Gangsta. I am currently working on part 2.

Kim- Hmmm, mmmkay…

So…. where can we get your books?

Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Target.com, Walmart.com

Kim- Walmart! And Target amazing! I’m on the other side of the world and even I know how big those stores are in the USA. Well done you!!

What are the most important magazines for writers to subscribe to?

Not sure, I would like some suggestions.

Kim * Whistles*…. let’s get on to the next question, I ain’t gotta clue either that’s why I ask. LOLZ

What does “success” look like to you? When would you say “damn, I’ve made it baby!”

When I am on the “New York Times Best Seller” list.

Kim- Snap!

Does a big ego help or hurt writers?

Hurt, because you need to be humble but always have confidence!

Kim- Good answer.

What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

When research is needed “Team De’Kari” does my research since I am not currently unable. They spend limited time on research because I come up with most of the stuff on my own.

What is your writing process like?

I get an idea and then the title comes soon after.

Is there anything you must have while writing? (Music, snacks, etc)

I have my snacks nearby. I usually block out time in the morning and late evening to write. While writing I like things quiet so I can have complete concentration. Leading up to me writing I usually listen to some mellow music, if I have access.

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

Yes, I read all my reviews. I enjoy the feedback. Most of my reviews have been positive. I have received some comments about grammar or something minor but if I do get a negative review, I will learn from it.

What was your hardest scene to write?

Writing scenes with conversations.

Kim- That part comes kinda easy to me… maybe it’s due to the many ‘staff meetings’ I hold with myself during the day. LOLZ

Do you Google yourself?

Yes!

Kim- F*ck I don’t I’m too scared too!

How long on average does it take you to write a book?

Approximately 3 months.

Kim- Just knock them babies out huh? *Totally jealous* writing for me can sometimes be like child birth…. slow and painful in places.

What would you like readers to know?

That I have a passion for helping people especially our Youth. I have spent most of my life helping others. I guess this has a lot to do with the suffering I endured as a child.

What’s your favourite movie?

Braveheart with Mel Gibson.

What’s your favourite book and why?

I have so many but the one that stands out now is the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.

What music do you like?

I like all kind of music, but R&B is my favourite.

Where would you like to travel to and why?

Africa, the home of my ancestors.

Kim- Ummm, me too.

Tell us about how you develop your characters?

From people I know / have met along my journey.

Which one of your characters is your favourite and why?

It’s hard to say just one because there are several characters that have a piece of me in them. If I had to pick one it would be Voorheeze because no matter what he went through, he survived.

Kim- Awww so I really need to read the next part in Gorillaz in The Bay now, to see what happened to him. You know I thought you’d say T’Rida for some reason.

Do you need a lot of sexual experience to be a good erotica author?

I think it helps. You can also learn from what you see in movies, etc. Also having a great imagination.

Kim- you know I put this question here for an erotica author I interviewed years ago, most authors skip over it. Glad you stepped up to the plate. I think imagination is everything really with erotic stories or sex scenes, regardless of experience.

If you could do it all again would you change anything?

Yes, I would have searched for a publisher years ago when I wrote my first book.

Pick one a one time “Bestselling author” or an author with longevity what would you rather?

I would say an author with longevity as long as people enjoyed my work / purchased my books.

Thank you so much for spending time with me today De’Kari, it’s great to put a face to the great book. And get to know you a little better. I would encourage those who enjoy raw tales, crime fiction, and urban fiction that’s realistic to give this series a try. With thirty nine positive reviews on Amazon on my last check, why not!? It’s also free to read on Kindle Unlimited at the time of this interview.

About The Series

Gorillaz In The Bay is the newest series to take the urban literary world by storm. Author De’Kari brings the pages of his novels to life with his descriptive depiction of California’s Bay Area Street Life. The vivid tale begins with the birth of Neva Die Dragon Gang. Then he takes the readers along as the gang surges its way to the top of the Underworld. The Neva Die Dragon Gang are hell-bent on a quest to Reign Supreme in the jungle called the Bay Area. The characters T’Rida, Tommy Guns and Jason Voorheeze will soon find out they aren’t the only predators in this jungle. Does this trio of Comrades have what it takes for their organization to be the Bay Areas Apex Predators?
Critics are saying that Gorillaz In The Bay is the modern day New Jack City. Follow the series and decide if you agree with the rest of the critics. Is T’Rida the new Nino Brown?

🔥🔥AVAILABLE NOW ON AMAZON🔥🔥
Gorillaz In The Bay Book Series
book 1
book 2
book 3
book 4

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Dekari.Beckum

Instagram – urban.novels.by.dekari 

Twitter – https://twitter.com/DeKari67503535 

Amazon Author Page –  https://www.amazon.com/DeKari/e/B07MCMJGXJ?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_fkmr0_1&qid=1556320531&sr=8-1-fkmr0

Goodreads Author Page – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18735895.De_Kari?from_search=true

About The Author

De’Kari, author of the newly released Gorillaz In the Bay, is a promising author whose work is nothing short of amazing. Though it’s his first book, De’Kari’s work provides readers with an authentic glimpse into street life. He currently writes urban fiction but plans to cross over to other genres.
The author was born and raised in Northern California.

The author experienced a challenging childhood. Riddled with abuse, neglect and witnessing violence first-hand, De’Kari’s early years were dark and pained. Due to the dysfunction that surrounded him, he was often uprooted and moved from place to place. After various placements with relatives, he found himself in foster care. He eventually turned to the streets which consequently led to a lot of bad choices. In turn those bad choices led to youth authority, jail & prison.
There is more to this author than the street-life. He always had a love for writing. In school he excelled in creative writing. He would always live-out the story as he was writing. Through his most difficult times, he used writing as a way to escape from his surroundings.

In additional to writing, he creates poetry, writes songs and does artwork. He loves spending time with family, fishing, sports and helping youth.
He is happy that he is finally able to share his writing with others, putting his passion to work! De’Kari, author of the newly released Gorillaz In the Bay, is a promising author whose work is nothing short of amazing. Though it’s his first book, De’Kari’s work provides readers with an authentic glimpse into street life. He currently writes urban fiction but plans to cross over to other genres.

book flyer all 4

Writing Prompt- Places…

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Welcome to March! Today’s writing prompt in book is simply answer… ‘beach, mountain, forest or somewhere else?’   This writing prompt called me so much! For me it’s all about here….

beach-1836335_1280

I’m beach lover for so many reasons, not only is it beautiful to  be right  at the edge of a country or island, it’s just a stunning place visually, mentally, emotionally and spiritually for me. Here’s why I’d choose the beach over the mountains, forest or some other place.

I’m a water baby!

Through and through I just love the water. Be it the beach, pool, bath or shower lolz I can’t get enough  of it. I soak in the bath for ages, and  a five minute shower is unheard of for me. I find water actually really calming. Once, when I worked in the depths of south London the building was right across the road from one of south London’s popular parks. I would spend my lunch break right by the lake or make-shift pound you could call it. Even when it was a little chilly, I’d just wrap up and have my lunch there. It was at that point that I realised that the water calms me, and centres me.  The work environment at the particular place was very stressful. I also worked their while pregnant and I needed to get out and away.

Of course I love to swim too, one of my favourite forms of exercise and really wish I had more time for it. Overall, my ideal home would be right by the water. I am lucky that where I live now, I am by water. That said,  if I had a beach front house, or even lived within walking distance or a short drive from a beach I’d be on cloud nine. It’s just beautiful. I like to sit by the water and just …well…watch it. Listen to music, read, write whatever just being near.

When I’m on holiday I’m the kinda person to spend all day, and I mean all day at the beach, and then explore during the evening or later in the day. It’s pretty hard to tear me away I’ll just chill and people watch.

Ideally, if I could live anywhere in the world, it would also be somewhere with great beaches.

I like exotic and warm places!

Well…. I’m the author of  the ‘Romance Set in Paradise Series’ so that’s hardly surprising I like the exotic! But personally, I’m a warm blooded human, I love the sun and everything about it. Apart from difficulty with keeping my make-up on lolz. I really enjoy the warmer weather as I feel everyone is in a much better mood, and I am too.

Summer  and the beach to me is ‘fun’, ‘carefree’ and time to enjoy yourself and get out and about. Rather than be stuck in doors. I also find that there’s a hella-lot of great books released in the summer time.

Many of the places that I would to visit are parts of south America, the Caribbean, Thailand and I’d love to do a safari…from the safety of a very enclosed car though.

Spiritual, Mental and Emotional Well-Being

This can all be experienced from the beach. You can do Yoga, Pilates ( things I do do), and even peaceful meditations to the sounds of waves. Like I said I find the water and its motion very alluring to me. The water is also a great force of nature, it can be calm and welcoming but at the same time cause chaos! And even sadly, take lives. It must be respected.

Writing Inspiration…

If I ever become fortunate enough to live near a beach, a real beautiful one I think that inspiration to write would flow ‘like water’ LOL. Okay, that was a bit cliche but it’s the truth. And I don’t think I’d write stories set in just exotic or warm places. I genuinely feel being near water could motivate and inspire me.

Overall, I find the mountains too high for me I’m not great with heights,  and probably a bit chilly, I’m not great with that either. Hmm the  forest there could be creepy crawlies I’m not great with them either. I could never camp! So the beach suits me, my personality and how I can find inner peace and calm to a T.

What would you go with beach, mountains, forest or some place else? And why let me know?

Romance Series Release + $30.00 Giftcard Giveaway!! #amreading

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Nestled within the hills of central Texas is a special ranch. A place that defies the laws of physics—that of time, space, and dimensions. It’s a place where normal morphs with the paranormal and supernatural. A place that seems to know what a person’s true desires and needs are, and then allows the right circumstances to occur to fulfill those wishes.
Welcome to the Gateway Ranch.
Your gateway to all things possible…
The sprawling ranch offers something for everyone—wranglers, riding, roping, rustic accommodations all the way to fantastic resort hotel amenities including a salon and spa, exquisite rooms and suites, and five-star dining. The buildings and land also hold special energy and are known for odd phenomena. Each time you stay at the Gateway, you’ll discover something new.
Gateway Ranch series books offered by Three Flames Publishing https://threeflamespublishing.com/
To Be Yours
Gateway Ranch Series
by C.R. Moss
Genre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense
Katrina Foster has survived a life no one dreams about and most don’t want to know about. Escaping to a ranch in Texas she used to visit during the summers of her childhood and rekindling an old relationship with Dakota Remington, she hopes to leave the nightmare of her past behind her. At first, all seems well, but when strange things begin to happen, she wonders if history’s about to repeat itself.
Dakota Remington has devoted his life to working at Gateway Ranch. He’s excited when Kat, his former sweetheart, returns and looks forward to reuniting with her. He finds she’s changed, though, and he’s not sure if it’s for the better. But he’s up for the challenge of the puzzle that is Kat.
Book Trailer
When Spirit Calls
Gateway Ranch Series
by Johanna Riley
Genre: Paranormal Romance
When spirit calls, it’s not just the living who answer.
Psychic medium Elle Gordon has been called to the Gateway Ranch & Resort. A rogue spirit is tormenting the undead, preventing their cross overs. Using her connection to the other side, Elle is determined to stop the attacks. If only the hunky hotel manager, Caspian, would stop disturbing her process and focus. A shared goal of saving spirit convinces the couple to work together. Acknowledging and accepting their mutual attraction, their new bond amplifies their powers. But will that new strength be enough to put an end to the rogue spirit, or will it destroy them all?
Enticing Penelope
Gateway Ranch Series
by Austyn Sherrie
Genre: Paranormal Romance
World-renowned vampire chef, Michael Stake, does not believe in romance that leads to happily-ever-after. He is content with one-night stands and playing the field. Penelope Rothchild is a famous food critic on the hunt for the next best foodie establishment.
When Penelope enters Michael’s restaurant romantic sparks fly. It does not take long for him to clear his date calendar hoping to fill it with one name. Penelope. But when Penelope secretly adds garlic to his dishes, his world goes haywire. Penelope Rothchild could be his queen in shining armor or his 10th ring of Hell. Only time on the Ranch will reveal all.
Can their new love survive his poisoning, her realization of the vampire world, and both their stubbornness to trust? Welcome to the Gateway Ranch where anything is a possibility.
About C.R. Moss
An eccentric and eclectic writer, C.R. Moss pens stories for the mainstream and erotic romance markets, giving readers a choice of sweet, savory or spicy reads, usually within a sub-genre or two — paranormal, sci-fi/fantasy, time travel, or western flare. She also has a passion for penning dark fiction. Writing as Casey Moss, she delves into the darker aspects of life in her work, sometimes basing the stories on reality, sometimes on myth. No matter the path, her stories will take you on a journey from the lighthearted paranormal to dark things unspeakable. What waits around the corner? Come explore… www.caseymscorner.com
About Johanna Riley
Johanna Riley has been writing for twenty years. Her love of reading romance fueled the desire to write and help others fall for happily ever afters. Her books are sweet and sensual with a dash of sass and laughter.
About Austyn Sherrie
Austyn Sherrie is a true romantic at heart. When she is not busy teaching high school or spending time with her husband and son, you can find her working on a story. She loves to hear from her fans. Please, send your correspondence to austynsherrie@gmail.com
$30 Amazon
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

 

Book Tour + Giveaway by Kristen Morgen!

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Behind the Glass
State Street Series Book 1
by Kristen Morgen
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Rebecca Jordan’s life is simple, disciplined and uncomplicated, at least on the surface. Then she meets a handsome stranger/secret admirer named Michael Vale one fateful late night at a bookstore café. As a focused but struggling photographer with a passion for art, her outwardly happy world is turned upside down during this life-changing encounter when she quickly realizes she has met her soul mate. The undeniable attraction between them and their intense, immediate connection seems picture perfect as they discuss the shop’s local artwork, until Rebecca abruptly ends the chance meeting with no explanation.
Betraying Brett, her loyal, loving boyfriend is something she can never bring herself to do. Driven by a strong moral code and molded by divorced parents and a tumultuous childhood, she struggles to stay away from Michael, but fate and circumstance intervene, bringing them back together time and time again. As much as she resists, there is no denying her true feelings for him and the simple fact that Michael understands her in a way Brett never has. Michael proves to be everything she’s ever wanted, but remains just out of her reach.
Behind the Glass tells the story of Michael and Rebecca’s extraordinary love and the many unconventional stages their relationship must go through. Their morals and their faith in true love and in each other will be put to the test as they learn that meeting one’s soul mate does not come without obstacles.
Kristen Morgen is a contemporary romance author and a licensed architect with her own architectural firm. A creative spirit, she can’t remember a time in her life when she didn’t crave designing, creating, discovering, and using her imagination in some way.
Her romance writing interests may seem rather different from her daily career, where she focuses on designing homes, but all good architects are, at heart, just artists creating something imagined onto paper. The two practices and creative processes balance each other well.
Kristen was an avid reader from an early age, and it was her love for the romance genre, her favorite guilty pleasure, that encouraged her to hone her passion for writing. She loves the art of shaping words and sentences into relatable stories while creating rich characters for her readers to connect with.
Her debut novel ‘Behind the Glass’ explores relationships and the little reasons people fall in love with each other while uncovering deeper truths.
Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, she currently resides in Connecticut with her husband and two daughters. When she’s not designing homes, she dedicates her free time to her second novel and reads almost anything she can get her hands on.
Kristen Morgen is a hopeless romantic to the end.
$10 Amazon gift card, Custom Behind the Glass bookmark/mini journal – 1 winner each
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!