The Book Expo is Tomorrow!

Tomorrow is the first annual Flint Public Library Book Expo. I am so excited! I hope that everyone comes out to show their support, and see all of the wonderful talent that Flint, Michigan has to offer. There is a lot to offer:   40 authors, one marketer, and three publishers, to meet, greet and support.  Meet the Authors in blog posts located here. No matter what genre you love to read, we have it: photography, self-help, romance, history, sci-fi, children’s, young adult, humor, inspirational, even horror!

Flint Public Library Saturday, May 19 1 PM – 5 PM, is THE place to be!

See you there!

Flint is on the Rise…believe it!

FaLessia Camille

The Book Expo is Saturday!

Well, here we are less than a week before the first annual Flint Public Library Book Expo. I am so excited! I hope that everyone comes out to show their support, and see all of the wonderful talent that Flint, Michigan has to offer. Saturday promises to be an exciting and thrilling day. We have 38 authors, one marketer, and three publishers, all ready to show the best of their hard work. There’s something for everyone: photography, self-help, romance, history, sci-fi, children’s, young adult, humor, inspirational, even horror!

So come on down to the Flint Public Library Saturday, May 19 1 PM – 5 PM, and spend time with our authors, get their autographs before they become famous, talk to them about their work, spend some money, and get some really cool books for your collection!

See you there!

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, The Final Post

Ah, parting is such sweet sorrow. 12 posts and this is the last one! There are just four authors left to introduce, but I’ll also include links to the publishing houses represented. Here are the final authors!

John W. Warnock writes in three different genres: Techno thriller, paranormal mystery romance, and short stories. He has published four books: Collected Shorts; Psychic; Reunion; One Fish Two Fish, and The JPEG of Dorian Gray. John hopes to have another short story collection out in 2012. John says, “My family is very inspirational. They provide most of my material. If they read my stuff, I’m dead.”

W. Lynn Chantale is author of Mistletoe Mambo, and expects to release four stories this year. She was born in Flint, and now lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She writes in a few genres, such as interracial erotic, contemporary romance, and romantic suspense. Her motto is, “Indulge your inner romantic.”

At this point, we were officially done. However, we had some cancellations, which gave a few more people a chance to participate. Meet our new authors!

John Streby currently lives in Flint Township–prior to 1996, he spent his entire life in the City of Flint. He writes “Flint-based, reality-inspired fiction that you can’t get anywhere else.”  John is the author of two books, Rabbit Stew and The Devil Won’t Care. Rabbit Stew takes aim at the corrupt milieu of the modern criminal justice system, where peoples’ lives are fodder for the career agendas of the wealthy and powerful, set against a backdrop of rivalry, ambition, and the comedy and tragedy of human interaction. The Devil Won’t Care  traces the early career of Lanny Lessner, who rockets to wealth and fame with a “documentary” about the decline of his hometown of Flint after a spate of factory closings.  His saga is retold by a friend and supporter who confronts a growing body of evidence that despite his status as a national icon, Lessner is a crude, deceptive, manipulative phony.

Mark Edick writes memoirs about addiction and recovery. His book is entitled, Becoming Normal: An Ever-Changing Perspective. He is also author of  Fear: Feel It, Face It, and Grow, released in March, 2012. In recovery for over 10 years, Mark’s writing is about how he strives to make the best of living a sober life.

And, as promised, here are links to our publishers:

Anchor Group Publishing; Bradley Publishing; Glendower Media

Read previous posts about this event here:

Coming Soon…the Flint Public Library’s Book Expo!

Meet the Authors: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10.

All this, and more at the Flint Public Library’s Book Expo! On Saturday, May 19th 2012, authors, book publishers, and book lovers from all over the state will gather together to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Flint Public Library! From 9 am until 1 pm, there will be opportunities to speak with each author, purchase their books, and discover new local, regional, and statewide talent.

Flint is on the Rise…Believe it!

FaLessia Camille

PS I kept my promise…my authors know what I mean!

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, Part 10–the Penultimate Post

I love the word “penultimate.” It’s so serious, much better than saying “next to the last.” Here in the penultimate post, you’ll meet four more lovely ladies who love to write.

Stacey Rourke: Writing is something I have always done. I never picked writing–it picked me. During my time as a stay at home mom, I needed an outlet to give me a mental break from diapers, formula and midnight feedings. That’s when my hands found their way back to the keyboard. Story ideas began coming at such an incessant rate that my rapidly clicking fingers couldn’t keep up. Post-It notes and scrapes of paper with story ideas decorated every inch of our house. In mid-conversation with my husband I would dart off to jot down things that would come to me. Sweet guy my hubby is, he would just shake his head at my obvious rudeness and hold my place in the conversation It’s been a long road, and it ain’t over yet. But now, at thirty-mumble, mumble years old I finally know what I wanna be when I grow up–-a writer.

Cindy Spencer Pape writes in Romance, both mainstream & erotic.  She is our most published author with  40 titles currently out, and more coming. Motor City Mage, was published in March  and Kilts & Kraken, a novella in an unnamed anthology, will be available in June.  Get your happy-ever-after fix with a romance by Cindy Spencer Pape!

Sue Topping wrties 
Memoir and Inspiration. She is the author of 
Indigo Wisdom, a book  that shares her struggle of raising a health-challenged son through conventional methods as well as alternative medicine. Susan says, “We took him to Switzerland for a holistic method of rebuilding his immune system that turned his health around. Once he was stronger and could talk, he shared many spiritual experiences, causing me to explore the genre of metaphysics resulting in my personal spiritual growth. I am now an energy healing practitioner,  and owner of Wisdom Modalitites.”

Kirei (pronounced Key-Ray) was  born in Flint and now lives in Genesee. Kirei writes poetry, and is author of  I Do or I Die; Papyrus;  and Rose Petals. She is working on a new book  and her second poetry album entitled “Year of the Flower.” The first, which was released in November of 2011, is entitled “High Heels and Handcuffs.”  Kieri notes, “Writing is an art that can not only be engraved in the mind but also the heart.” She is quite accomplished as a spoken word artist and activist, and owner of  her own publishing company.

Last, but definitely not least, we’ll introduce you to John Warnock, W. Lynn Chantale, John Streby, and Mark Edick. Meet all this awesome authors at the first annual FPL Book Expo! On Saturday, May 19th 2012, authors, book publishers, and book lovers from all over the state will gather together to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Flint Public Library! From 9 am until 1 pm, there will be opportunities to speak with each author, purchase their books, and discover new local, regional, and statewide talent.

View previous posts about the expo here:

Book Expo Authors, part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8, 9

Flint is on the Rise….Believe It!

FaLessia Camille

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, Part 9

On Saturday, May 19th 2012, authors, book publishers, and book lovers from all over the state will gather together to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Flint Public Library! From 9 am until 1 pm, there will be opportunities to speak with each author, purchase their books, and discover new local, regional, and statewide talent. Let’s meet four more authors!

Sandra Peoples is the author of Foolish, who says she writes to live. She writes fiction books, and is currently working on two books, The Dream Stealer and Foolish 2.

Mary Louise Zuccaro Pollack was born in Bridgetown, Pennsylvania, and now lives in Casco, Michigan. She writes realistic fiction for children. Mary Louise is the Author of Harrietta’s Hair, and is working on another book. She believes it’s never too late to learn something new!

Kathleen Rollins was born in New York City, and currently resides in Davisburg, Michigan. A retired English teacher turned novelist and loving it, Kathleen writes prehistoric adventure fiction. Her book is called   Misfits and Heroes: West from Africa. Past the Last Island, the second book in the “Misfits and Heroes” series, will be released toward the end of the year. Kathleen loves archaeology and travel, both of which were big influences in her books , and hopes the expo is filled with “people who like to read a good adventure story from 14,000 years ago!”

Just eight authors left to meet! Next, we’ll introduce you to Stacey Rourke, Cindy Spencer Pape, Sue Topping, and Kirei!

Previous posts:

Book Expo Authors, part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7, 8

Flint is on the Rise….Believe It!

FaLessia Camille

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, Part 8

The Flint Journal posted an article last night about the Expo. Here is a link, if you haven’t read it:

http://www.mlive.com/entertainment/flint/index.ssf/2012/05/flint_public_library_preps_boo.html#incart_river_default

FPL Book Expo, Saturday,  May 19th, Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley, Flint, Mi 48502.

Lawrence will Marvel at the Maze in the Orchard…let’s get started!

Shawnte Lawrence was born and raised in Flint, MI, the oldest of eight children. Growing up in an environment of poverty, part of her lives in every book she writes. Through her talent as an author, her mission is to get a message—good or bad—out to the world. She is the author of Juicy in her Final Warnings/ Confessions of a Seventeen Year Old. Shawnte’s new book titled, The Reasons Why was released in February 2012. Shawnte Lawrence hopes to one day be a motivational speaker, helping to guide single mothers and teenagers on the right path, making them aware that giving up is never an option. Having a free, loving heart, she hopes to build a personal relationship with all her readers.

Robin Marvel was born in Sacramento, California and currently lives in Hersey, Michigan. Robin writes Self Help, Motivational, Inspirational,  and Metaphysical titles, and is the author of: Reshaping Reality: Creating Your Life!; Awakening Consciousness A Woman’s Guide!; Awakening Consciousness A Girl’s Guide!; Awakening Consciousness A Boy’s Guide!; Robin believes in Reshaping Reality While Awakening Your True Purpose!

Nicholas L. Maze is a native of Flint. He writes Finance and Romance books. Nicholas is the author of White Collar Woman and Exit: How to Leave Debt Forever.  Nicholas is “writing life, so that you can enjoy yours.”

Lisa Orchard currently resides in Rockford, Michigan with her husband, Steve, and two wonderful boys. She grew up loving books. She was hooked on mysteries by the fifth grade and even wrote a few of her own. She knew she wanted to be a writer even then.  “The Super Spies and the High School Bomber” is the second book in the “Super Spies” series. Her first book was published in March of 2012 and it has received rave reviews.  Currently, she’s working on the third novel that stars the same quirky teens. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, running, hiking, and reading.

Almost done! Next, meet Sandra Peoples, Mary Louise Zaccaro Pollack, Chris Ringler, and Kathleen Rollins!

Previous posts:

Book Expo Authors, part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6, 7

Flint is on the Rise….Believe It!

FaLessia Camille

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, Part 7

Are there really more authors? Yes…Flint has no lack of talent! Whether born here, moved here, or just love to be here, our city is filled with scribes of the highest caliber. They write everything from educational, to children’s tales, to steamy love stories, to tales of horror, mystery, suspense, and more!

On that note…you know the drill: FPL Book Expo, Saturday,  May 19th, Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley, Flint, Mi 48502, from 1-5 pm….be there or be square!

Here are four authors you’ll meet there!

Joy Byas Johnson writes memoirs. Her book is called Entering the Life of the Exquisite Past. Her upcoming release during 2012 is called “Indifferent.” Joy says, “those who remain focused will succeed!”

Patrick Jones writes young adult fiction about teens growing up through hard times in the Flint area. He was born in Flint, MI, and now lives in Minneapolis, MN. Patrick is the author of six books: Tear Collector; Stolen Car; Cheated; Chasing Tail Lights; Nailed; and Things Change.  Cassandra’s Tears, sequel to The Tear Collector will be published in fall, 2012.

Jeff LaFerney was born in Lakeview, Michigan and now lives in Davison. Jeff writes suspense/mystery stories, and is the author of two books: Loving the Rain and Skeleton Key. He is working on a new book, Bulletproof, and hope to have it available by June of 2012. His books include parapsychology, ghosts, sports, mystery, suspense, interesting characters, good moral values, unexpected twists and surprises, and settings in the Flint area.

Dangerous Lee was born in Flint, MI, and now lives in Burton. She writes erotica. Her book is entitled; Keep Your Panties Up and Your Skirt Down. During 2012, Dangerous Lee is working on a project called The Dangerous Lee Experiment. Her motto is, “keep it Dangerous!”

Authors 28 thorough 32…coming right up! Next, we’ll introduce you to Shawnte Lawrence, Robin Marvel, Nicholas Maze, and Lisa Orchard!

Previous posts:

Book Expo Authors, part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6

Flint is on the Rise….Believe It!

FaLessia Camille

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, Part 6

Thus far, we have introduced 20 of the authors that will be present at the Flint Public Library’s Book Expo. This post introduces us to four lovely ladies, and brings us to a total of 24. On Saturday, May 19th 2012, authors, book publishers, agents and book lovers from all over the state will gather together to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Flint Public Library! From 9 am until 1 pm, there will be opportunities to speak with each author, purchase their books, and discover new local, regional, and statewide talent. Our authors come from as far away as Grand Rapids, Detroit, and Minnesota!

Danielle Green, author of Coulda Shoulda Woulda, was born and raised in Flint. She writes urban fiction tales, and her next book, Hoodmatized, will be published in the fall. Her slogan is, “image is everything.” Danielle has a publishing company, called Image Publications, and is the founder of a non-profit called EMPOWER, and she is also Co- Director of “My Dreams Do Come True.”

C. Lynn was born in Flint, and now lives in Genesee, Michigan. She is the author of ten books, including her most recent release, By Faith I Live, with two additional titles to be completed this year.  Her goal is to publish 60 books by the year 2027…so look out for plenty more from her! Her website is The Goal Strategist.

Janet Ruth Heller was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and now lives in Portage, Michigan. She writes in many different genres, and is the author of the award-winning book How the Moon Regained Her Shape; Traffic Stop; and Coleridge, Lamb, Hazlitt and the Reader of Drama. She “loves writing and teaching children and adults how to do creative writing.”

Peg Herring was born in, and lives in Onaway, Michigan (I put in a link so that you can see where that is–I had to look it up myself!), but lived in Swartz Creek for five years while atending UM-Flint. Her most recent work is Poison; and Your Grace, the second of the Simon & Elizabeth mysteries. In Spring 2012, she released Somebody Doesn’t Like Sarah Leigh; and Dead for the Money. Peg is a former educator, so she enjoys “doing presentations on mystery, history, and writing for publication.” Peg Herring writes “strong women, great stories!”

There you are…24 of the fantastic authors that will be featured at the 2012 Book Expo! Next, we’ll introduce you to  Joy Byas Johnson, Patrick Jones, Jeff LaFerney and Dangerous Lee. Previous posts:

Book Expo Authors, part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,

Flint is on the Rise….Believe It!

FaLessia Camille

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, part 5

Thus far, we have introduced 16 of the authors that will be present at the Flint Public Library’s Book Expo. This post introduces us to four more authors, and brings us to the halfway mark. On Saturday, May 19th 2012, authors, book publishers, agents and book lovers from all over the state will gather together to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Flint Public Library! From 9 am until 1 pm, there will be opportunities to speak with each author, purchase their books, and discover new local, regional, and statewide talent. Our authors come from as far away as Grand Rapids, Detroit, and Minnesota!

Rohn Federbush is an inspirational  and historical romance author. Her book is called Salome’s Conversion. Rohn lives in Ann Arbor, where she says she paints “atrocious landscapes.”

Kelly Flynn is a former high school teacher who writes about education policy and life in the classroom. She also wrote an education column that appeared on the opinion page of The Flint Journal for seven years. Kelly was born in Flint, and currently resides in Fenton, MI. She is a nonfiction author, with a book entitled,  Kids, Classrooms, and Capitol Hill: A Peek Inside the Walls of America’s Public Schools.  It is a funny, edgy, poignant look at life in the classroom. The second edition of her book is coming out in paperback in 2012.

Cora Blu is also known as Olivia Lavyn, depending on what kind of book she’s writing! Under the Cora Blu pen name, she wrties paranormal romance, and Olivia is her moniker when writing  interracial contemporary romance. Her novel Dagger’s Bite, was published this year. Cora is “mother of three, wife to one,” and says she’s a “quiet butterfly that leaves a colorful trail.”

Jim Goldsmith, Jr. writes urban fiction, among other genres. He is the author of A Drug Dealer’s Lover, and is working on another book. His motto is, “keep God first, we are all equal.”

We’re halfway through the fantastic authors that will be featured at the 2012 Book Expo! Next, we’ll introduce you to Danielle Green, C. Lynn, Janet Heller, and Peg Herring. Previous posts:

Book Expo Authors, part 1, 2, 3, 4

Flint is on the Rise….Believe It!

FaLessia Camille

Meet the Authors of the 2012 Book Expo, Part 4

Thus far, we have introduced you to 12 of the authors that will be present at the Flint Public Library’s Book Expo. This post brings the number to 16. On Saturday, May 19th 2012, authors, book publishers, agents and book lovers from all over the state will gather together to enjoy a fun-filled day at the Flint Public Library! From 9 am until 1 pm, there will be opportunities to speak with each author, purchase their books, and discover new local, regional, and statewide talent. Our authors come from as far away as Grand Rapids, Detroit, and Minnesota!

Jean Alicia Elster was born in and currently resides in Detroit, Michigan. She writes books for children and young adults , and “likes to give her readers a challenging, yet entertaining, reading experience.” Jean Alicia is the author of Who’s Jim Hines? Just Call Me Joe Joe, I Have a Dream, Too! I’ll Fly My Own Plane, and I’ll Do the Right Thing.

Mark Elswick hails from Davison. His nonfiction book, Padman: A Dad’s Guide to Buying…Those and Other Tales. In March, 2012, Mark will have a new book, Traumatic Brain Injuries: Milestones in Recovery. His motto is, “making a difference, one book at a time.” 15% of everything he earns writing and/or speaking is being donated to Brain Injury Association of America.

Dr. Ernest Emenyonu was born in Nigeria, and currently resides in Flint. He writes in many genres, including children’s books, short stories, and biography. He is the author of UZOECHI: A Story of African Childhood. He is editor of African Literature Today, the oldest international journal of African Literature in the world, published simultaneously in Africa, Great Britain and the United States, annually each November.

Marianne Evans writes Christian Romance and Fiction. She is the author of The Woodland Series, which includes four full length books, and a short story. In fall 2012, Devotion, her Christian fiction debut, will be released. Born in Grand Blanc and raised in Flint,  Marianne currently resides in Troy, Michigan.

We’re almost halfway through the fantastic authors that will be featured at the 2012 Book Expo! Next, we’ll introduce you to  Rohn Federbush, Kelly Flynn, Cora Blu, and Jim Goldsmith, Jr.