Strawberry-Lit Magazine: Vol 1 Issue 1 by Strawberry-Lit Magazine

VOL 1, ISSUE 1 DISPLAY UNTIL FEB 02, 2017 DIGITAL EDITION

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MK ASANTE cover photo provided by MK Asante via Facebook. Rod Ballard, Chance Jolivette, Cynthia Rubio, Ericka Reams, Justin Young, and LaQueisha Malone all photos provided by author.

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THIS SIDE OF THE BAYOU

BEHIND THE PEN: MK ASANTE

INTERROGATION WITH SLYCE

ST. PAUL: HIGHLY CONCENTRATED

MONIQUE D. MENSAH: MAKE YOUR MARK

DONNELL HICKS: LOVE IS IN YOUR FACE

AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR LAQUEISHA MALONE

YOUR POINT OF VIEW QUIZ

TAKING CHANCES WITH CHANCE JOLIVETTE 104

FROM THE EDITOR

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP

ASPIRING AUTHORS Q&A

EDITOR’S ADVICE: BOOKLIFE

BOOK REVIEW

ASK THE PRO: BRANDING

PUBLISHER’S TAKEOVER

AUTHORS TO KNOW

COVER SNAPSHOTS

POETRY CORNER: CYNTHIA RUBIO

ASK VANESSA

CALENDAR OF EVENTS 102 CREATIVE WRITING: THE BEAUTIFUL VOICE 106 AUTHOR’S BAG GIVEAWAY 108

PREFERRED READ 111 SPECIAL EVENTS 115

Editor-In-Chief

Contributing Journalists

Dear Readers, Thank you for taking the time to read the first issue of STRAWBERRY-LIT MAGAZINE. This magazine was created for all things Literary and of the Arts. We strive for a positive, productive, and proactive change to bring unity to all forms of Literary Art. Art can be in many forms such as writing, painting, singing, rapping, and dancing just to name a few. We want to bridge the gap in the literary community and bring us all together with the mind-set of one common goal—we are all wanting to entertain our audience. We don’t believe in competition, but just in ourselves. Always strive to be better than your last accomplishment.

In this issue, we have brought to you some great talent from poets, to painters, book clubs, editors, models, marketing coaches, and more. We all have one thing in common...we changed our perspectives to change or lives. Putting this magazine together was no easy task, and I say that to say this, nothing without hard work and sacrifice will be strong enough to survive. You must believe in yourself, your vision, and your end result. If you can’t see it, began making baby steps, and putting your plan into action. It won’t happen overnight, but give yourself the satisfaction of saying that you’ve tried it. Keep writing. Keep painting. Keep singing. Keep living. Until the next issue. Happy Holidays!

KEEP YOUR CREATIVITY FLOWING

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er. We would love to support your company. _____________

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BEGINNINGS, MIDDLES, AND ENDS When writing a story there are three main parts to consider: The Beginning (the setup), The Middle (the development), and The End (the resolution).

THE BEGINNING: PULLING THE READER IN  Start with a strong narrative hook. This will grab your readers attention and 

   

reel them into your story. Jump into the action. Don’t feel you must explain everything– who, what, when, where, why– in the first paragraph. If you have to explain something, weave the explanation into the action– show us through the viewpoint character’s thoughts or observations. Introduce the important characters. Make it clear who the protagonist is, and let him/her begin to win your readers interest and sympathy. Present the inciting incident. Depict it in a flashback or discuss it in dialogue so that readers clearly understand what it is. Set up the questions and conflicts. The central issue of the story, the protagonist’s predicament and his/her goal, and the principle conflict to be resolved. Wrap up this section with the first plot point of crisis. Choose a significant complication to create the forward movement that propels us into the middle of the story.

THE MIDDLE: KEEPING UP THE MOMENTUM  Develop the characters and their relationship. As the story proceeds, your readers should come to know your characters better and better– their personalities, their motives, the basis for the kinds of choices they make.  Prevent them from reaching their goals. Your characters are attempting to straighten out their conflicts and predicaments. Don’t make it too easy for them.  Keep the tension rising. As the complication rises, the stakes to be settled in the confrontation become even higher and outcome increasingly in doubt.  Set up the finale with a new plot point or crisis. Keep in mind that a story’s purpose is to provide answers to a series of questions– the central issue plus the key questions that provide your characters’ motivation.

THE END: PROVIDING A STRONG, SATISFYING FINISH  Bring the confrontation to front and center. This should be the most forceful event in the story. Place the climax as late in the story as possible.

 Provide an ending worthy of the beginning. The best way to design a plot is to first figure out the finale and then work out the chain of cause and effect backward from there.  Don’t be in a hurry to finish writing. The urge to rush– to take shortcuts and make compromise– is almost irresistible. Let the reader be the one who rushes to the end, eager to discover how it all turns out. Once you have resolved the conflict and answered the questions you’ve raised... The Story Is Over!

Cited from: Writing Great Short Stories by Margaret Lucke

By Alma Collin Thomas

QUESTION: Lately, I have been having trouble writing my book. At times everything pours out of me, but now I can’t seem to think of what to write. How do I overcome writer’s block? Dear Lately, Don’t be alarmed because you are experiencing writer’s block. Writer’s block has happened to every writer at some time in their writing career from the professional writer to the amateur. There are several reasons why we might have writer’s block... (1) timing, it might not be the right time to write the book. For years I was writing this book “From the Waiting Room To the Recovery Room”. I never could finish the book, and one day God dropped it in my spirit that the reason why I could not finish the book was that I was still in the waiting room. I had not made it to the recovery room, yet. (2) Many writers also suffer with fear. The fear of exposing their feelings, thoughts, and experiences through their writing. There are some people who have experienced some type of abuse in their childhood, and in telling their stories it will expose some skeletons in the closet. (3) The most common reason is our need for perfection. We want our writing to be perfect. Yes, we strive for excellency, but not perfection in the first draft. If we wait until our writing is perfect, we will never share it. There are several ways to release writer block…. For example, remove yourself from the writing for a while, take a breather, a walk, listen to some music, or just turn your computer off. There is no foolproof way to combat writer’s block other than just to write. You do not have to write for a purpose, but write for the joy of writing. Write because writing is your passion. You will soon find that you are back on track, so take your pen and pad, your tablet or your laptop, or whatever method you use and just start writing. I am looking forward to your next best seller.

BookLife taps the experience, integrity, and authority of Publisher’s Weekly to help Indie Authors achieve their goals

them you can submit your book for review by Publisher’s Weekly. You can submit it eBook via PDF or you can send them a printed copy. Be prepared to wait. TIP: If I were you BookLife is a website from Publish- and I wanted to receive a Publisher’s Weekly dedicated to indie au- er’s Weekly Review I would send my thors. According to their website, it book in six months before publicaprovides a free and easy way to tion. That way your book will have a submit your self-published books to review back in time to promote or Publisher’s Weekly for review, and include on the cover of the book. offers editorial content. Some very important features We could all use a lifeline to Puboffered by BookLife.com outside of lisher’s Weekly as Indie Authors. reviews are They are one of the most recog Book Fair Marketing. There are nized names in the world of reviews seven Book Exhibits they cater for Best Selling Titles. When creto in areas such as Denver, CO; ating an account with BookLife you London, UK; Chicago, IL; Orlanmust upload your book’s content do, FL; Beijing, China; Frankfurt, (title, author name, publisher, book Germany; and Guadalajara, cover, etc). They give three offers by Mexico. the end of this set up which can  Quality Press Release Distribubest describe the stage your book is tion for You Book. They have currently in. The three stages are partnered with PR Newswire Create, Publish, or Market. with discounts on distribution services. Once you have uploaded the re PW Select. Put your book in quested information, you have a front of tens of thousands of profile with BookLife that will inlibrarians, reviewers, clude a URL link to share with peobooksellers and more. (See ple if you like. This schedule and deadline dates) profile will allow  Service Directory. On your propeople to follow file you can list all your skills reyour book as it goes lated to publishing. through the three BookLife was designed for Indie Austages listed above. thors, and is absolutely free. For more information, visit their webWhile you have an site www.BookLife.com account set up with

This Louisiana native, Adina Counsil, who writes beneath the nom de plume, Trudy Robicheaux is one of the best thriller and suspense novelist, yet. If you haven’t read her Two Hot Mamas Series, what are you waiting for? With all the devastation caused by the flooding in Louisiana this past August we were still able to sit down with her on her book series and more.

brought to your writing? A lot of things were bottled up. I sat down eight days after the flood, and within five and a half days, I wrote another book for Two Hot Mamas.

Your upcoming release Two Hot Mamas: Something In The Water, the second book in the #THM series is about a mysterious happening with the water supply. Tell us more about that. A millionaire

We know it has been a difficult time these past few months in Louisiana for you. What emotions where running through your mind? Even though I

uses a toxic item to create bait for fishing and it runs into the water supply. Bette and Elvy will have a whole new mystery to solve.

have an overwhelming sense of loss and devastation, I also feel a sense of rebirth and new growth because I believe that God lets things happen for a reason. I will be allowed to do a few more things as far as Trudy Robicheaux go.

We understand with this recent flooding in August it has inspired you to write book three in the series. What can we expect with this book?

With all of the flooding, what creativity has it

his death. He tries to prove it wasn’t an act of the flood. I think this new character I’m introducing will be in the rest of the Two Hot Mamas series.

What other genre(s) have you dabbled in, and will there be any other genre (s) you’ll explore in the future? I write Historical Romance, Paranormal, Children’s Books, Non-Fiction, and Devotional/Spiritual Books. I would like to explore article writing, you know, blogging. So be on the look out for that.

We know you have other books out. Can you briefly explain some of your favorite ones and where to find them. My favorite ones

are the Two Hot Mamas Series which can be found on WalMart.com, Parish, which is about Domestic Violence, There’s been an offset flash Dauphine’s Palace: A Stoflood where a man washes ryville Saga on Wattpad, and up from the flood. The man Ghosts of Chickasaw Bayou is the grandfather of a young also on Wattpad. man Bette and Elvy helps in solving the mystery behind

Contact us TODAY! We have reserved a spot for your book to be reviewed. Mail to us a Non-Autographed copy of your book. We will rate the book 1-5 Stars. You must have a 4 Star review to be published in our magazine. All reviews come with a Positive Criticism Information Chart with your review. Our reviews will be considered editorial. They will not be plastered over retail sites. We will promote on all social media sites as well as publish the review here. Once a book has been reviewed we will put it in our author’s bag and give it away to a lucky reader.

*NO NUDITY OR PROFANITY OR SEXUAL EXPLICIT CONTENT ON COVERS* **We reserve the right to accept or deny any novel. We do not review any type of erotic manuscripts.  If you would like to have your book reviewed, mail a non-autographed copy along with a contact form to STRAWBERRY-LIT MAGAZINE

WELCOME TO THE BOLDEST, LOVING, AND MOST RIVETING NOVEL SURE TO WARM YOUR HEART.

THEY WERENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T LOOKING FOR TROUBLE WHEN IT SHOWED UP SLAIN ON THEIR DOORSTEP...

The Memoir 38 STRAWBERRY-LIT

MK Asante via Facebook

BUCK:

“A blank piece of paper saved my life…” ~MK Asante

By LaQueisha Malone

Award-Winner… Bestseller… Rapper... MK ASANTE grew up in the streets of Philly. No stranger to the trouble it had to offer, he overcame his obstacles with a blank piece of paper from a creative writing class. Often making the reference “A Blank piece of paper saved my life” MK Asante has a unique story to tell. The day a sheet of paper was placed front of him he was instructed to write, then his life changed forever. Like so many of our children today, they have been blinded by the things street-life has to offer them. Our goal is to not let them fall by that wayside.

MK Asante via Facebook

dance™ Feature Film Fellow for the movie adaptation. He directed the prize-winning Stars TV documentary The Black Candle and wrote/produced 500 Years Later, winner of five international film festival awards. He is a true example that hard work and dedication will pay off.

MK Asante is a tenured professor at Morgan BUCK: A Memoir is Asante’s fourth release, State University and travels the world sharing which is published under RandomHouse, was his stories with anyone who will listen. He praised by Maya Angelou as “A story of sur- studied at the University of London, earned a viving and thriving with passion, compassion, B.A. from Lafayette College, and an M.F.A. and style.” BUCK made the Washington Post from the UCLA School of Theater, Film, and best-seller list not once, but twice in 2014 Television. and 2015 and is a NAACP Image Award Finalist. He didn't stop at books and film, he also recorded BUCK as an audio using the formation After writing his memoir, he later filmed a of Spoke Word Rap. His album is available for documentary for the book, and is a SunFREE download on his website. 40 STRAWBERRY-LIT

Like Water Running Off My Back

Beautiful. And Ugly Too

It’s Bigger Than Hip Hop

Like Water Running Off My Back. This collection of poetry is a window into the mind and soul of a young poet intent on searching for the “truth in everything.” Molefi Asante, Jr. writes in the tradition of African-American poets who have laid a foundation that is rich in culture and rhythm. With poems covering a wide range of themes, such as identity, relationships, and family, his poems reveal the intense sensibilities of a young poet.

Beautiful. And Ugly Too. Beautiful. And Ugly Too, the critically-acclaimed, second poetry collection from award-winning author M.K. Asante, Jr., reveals through its delicate rhythm, the plurality of being alive. The poems, sketched from influences and drawn from experiences around the world, are colorful comments on the human condition.

It’s Bigger Than Hip-Hop. It’s Bigger Than Hip Hop takes a bold look at the rise of a generation that sees beyond the smoke and mirrors of corporate-manufactured rap and is build-

BUCK: The Memoir

ing a movement that will change not only the face of pop culture, but the world. M.K. Asante, Jr., a passionate young poet, professor, filmmaker, and activist who represents this new movement, uses hip hop as a springboard for a larger discussion about the urgent social and political issues affecting the hip-hop and post-hip-hop generations.

BUCK: A Memoir. A coming of age story about navigating the wilds of urban America and the shrapnel of a self-destructing family, BUCK shares the story of a generation through one original and riveting voice. MK Asante was born in Zimbabwe to American parents: his mother a dancer, his father revered professor. But as a teenager, MK was alone on the streets of North Philadelphia, swept up in a world of drugs, sex, and violence. MK’s memoir is an unforgettable tale of how one precocious, confused kid educated himself through gangs, rap, mystic cults, ghetto philosophy, and, eventually, books.

STRAWBERRY-LIT 41

MK Asante via Facebook

MK Asante’s Memoir is featured in several college curriculums and countless bookstores. Just in his 30’s he is the inspiration for all to follow your dreams and stick with it no matter what may come or go. The world could use your story. Go and purchase your copy of this bestselling title, since 2013, today. See what all the fuss is about and then leave your review. For more information or to keep up with him visit his website at www.mkasante.com 

FREE DOWNLOAD www.mkasante.com #buckshots

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Felisha Bradshaw, CEO WeBrandNew Authors

Branding? What exactly is it and why is this important for business? 



_____________________________________________________ First let’s start with explaining what branding is.

Brand v.- used to refer to a product or company name or anything that identifies something using a series of strategic marketing and advertising tools to develop an attraction to the consumer.

Branding is more than a LOGO. Branding is more than a TAGLINE. Branding is a concept that extends far beyond the marketing of “brand name” designer jeans and other products. A company's brand represents their market identity—who they are, what they do, what kind of quality they provide, their reputation for trustworthiness, and more.

WHY ALL AUTHORS SHOULD BEGIN WITH BRANDING!

The BRAND is YOU! The BRAND is your business view! The BRAND is your overall business objective! YOU are your brand! Repeat after me. "I AM MY BRAND!" If you stay focused on you being the brand you will dedicate yourself more on keeping the brand NEW at all times. YOU want to stay updated at all times. YOU want people to see you and recognize you and then associate it to what you do! You will be known for what you represent. In order to do this, you must:  KNOW YOUR REASON FOR BRANDING YOU  UNDERSTAND THAT YOU ARE YOUR BRAND and YOU WALK AS A BRAND. You are a HUMAN BILLBOARD for your company.  STAY CONSISTENT IN HOW YOU WANT TO BE VIEWED  YOU must know and understand that EXPOSURE+ACCESS=SUCCESS.  You can start with the basics! What do you want your company to say? Check out our full article on the website www.StrawberryLitMagazine.com

Take 30% off any purchase. Website orders only. Offer valid until 12/31/16. Books, T-Shirt, Journals, and more. YOUR PURCHASE

WWW. STRAWBERRYPUBLICATIONS.COM

Strawberry Publications, LLC

trawberry Publications, LLC was founded by Award-Winning Author LaQueisha Malone in 2013. Her motto is to “Offer Authors A Ripened Experience!” She uses the title and logo of strawberries, because she believe all stories are juicy and when ripened they have the potential to become bestsellers. The types of genre they are looking for are those that tell an entertaining story based on real-life issues, but has a message of hope and faith. They are not a Christian Publisher, but they do take pride on accepting manuscripts that are clean, yet well-written. Strawberry Publications offers Traditional Publishing Services and Self-Publishing Services. To-date they’ve sold over 5,000 copies of their titles with “A Second Chance at Love: A Chance Encounter” by Pamela Wright remaining one of their bestsellers. Requirements are as follows...send all information to info@strawberrypublications.com: 1. 2. 3. 4.

First three (3) chapters; Synopsis; Author Photo; & Bio. Photos credited by publisher

Accepted Genres: Young Adult, Poetry, Christian Fiction, Murder/ Mystery, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, & more. Visit the website to learn more. www.StrawberryPublications.com 

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MEP Publishing MEP Publishing was founded by Author’s Adolph and Erika T. Moore in September 2014. MEP Publishing stands for Moore Entertainment and Production Company. MEP Publishing foundation is built on Habakkuk 2:2 “And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it”. The company logo of the books is the example of writing the vision down and turning it into successful and productive books, so all can read it. MEP Publishing welcomes all genres of books that depicts real issues, real talk and real life stories that are both fiction and non-fiction as well as poetry and so forth. We look for stories that will encourage and build up every reader that read our books. We look for messages in every genre that will touch the heart of the readers. MEP Publishing offers Self-Publishing Services. Our motto is “Let us make writing easier for you”. We also offer ghostwriting services, reconstruction services, marketing and promotional services. Requirements are as follow......send all information to adolphmoore@aol.com 

Photos credited by publisher

First three (3) chapters  Synopsis  Author Photo & Bio  Fill out submission form and choose package at www.meppublishing.com

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Black Eden Publications

"Welcome to the inner circle..." At Black Eden Publications, we take creativity to the next level. Forget coming in second, when it comes to literature, we are the best! We strive to bring you the hottest titles today, but more importantly, our goal is to create exceptional novels that are recognizable for their creativity and value. Since 2015, we have made quality our first priority, and you'll find that is what sets us apart from our competition. Our mission is to ensure that when you pick up a book from Black Eden Publications, you can expect to be taken to the unexpected! We also offer professional editing services! For more information visit www.BlackEdenPublications.comď&#x201A;Ť

Photos credited by publisher

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MALIGNANT MIND SERIES VOL 5

DARE TO ENTER THE MIND OF MONIQUE D. MENSAH AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE BOOKS & EBOOKS ARE SOLD.

DEATH’S COMPANION PAPERBACK CONTEST Name ______________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Email Address _______________________________________________________________ One lucky reader will win a copy of Death’s Companion by Monique D. Mensah. One entry form per household. Must be 18+ or older to enter. Fill out the coupon and mail to Strawberry-Lit Magazine; Dept. Death’s Companion Paperback; PO Box 895; Rison, AR 71665. Contest begins November 29, 2016; 12:00AM and ends February 2, 2017; 11:59PM. Must be postmarked by February 2, 2017

Marilyn Brown, is the owner of O.G. (Only God) Publications were she has revised and re-released several of her own titles “Dream Killers”, “Forever A Gangsta: G-4-Life”, & “Forever A Gangsta-The Rebirth”. Just like many authors it was a struggle to get exposure. Brown, better known as SLYCE, had a vision to help authors who were just like her and needed exposure. She knew how hard it was for an indie author to get the recognition they deserved. Thus birthed, SLYCE THE BOOK CLUB (STBC) in 2010. Whether you were new to the publishing world or a veteran with thousands of readers, STBC was the place to be to promote your book covers, synopsis, or whatever you had to get the word out about your book. After about a year, she felt that wasn’t enough. There was no real interaction between reader and author, or author to author for that matter. Then she became impregnated again. This time giving birth to THE INTERROGATION ROOM, a segment inside of STBC allowing authors to answer questions related to their work and publishing experience. This interview takes place in the STBC Facebook Group administered by Marilyn Brown where the author has one hour to answer about twenty (20)

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questions, as well as questions from members of the group. THE INTERROGATION ROOM grew so massive it birthed a new idea to add to her services. She launched the BlogTalkRadio Show CHOPPIN IT UP WIT YA GIRL, SLYCE. Those are just a few services offered at STBC.

Check out STBC and Slyce’s B.O.O.K.W.O.R.M.S on Facebook or via their website www.ogpublications.com to see all their author related services and past interviews.  Photos credited by Marilyn Brown

“MY HEART ON PAPER RECITE WORDS THAT CAN’T FLOW THROUGH MY WINDPIPE.”

          Have you met Paul “St. Paul” Rodriguez? Born in the Bronx, this Wyoming native recording artist is bringing diversity to Hip-Hop. Like most all lyricist he began writing poetry and it morphed into something bigger. He first knew he had an act for rhyming to the beat in the 4th grade during an activity called “Build a song”, where it all came easy to freestyle words to music.



In 2009, he released his first album Highly Concentrated after a friend encouraged him to take his rhyming to another level. To his surprise, the album sold extremely well. To date he has 2 albums, 3 mixtapes, and several free songs online at fans request. “I want to make a time capsule of my life, because music is like an audio capsule. I want to leave a legacy behind.”



 

         

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St. Paul

 

Photo provided by Paul Rodriguez

St. Paul has collaborated with artist such as Crown Royyal, Feeki, and Moss. Some fan favorites are “I Won’t”, “Marinating”, and “Let It Go”. Check out his latest project, St. Paul The Saint & The Sinner, a Double-Disc album. For more information or to purchase CD’s visit www.TheRealStPaul.com

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Photo provided by Monique Mensah

Multi-Award Winning Author and CEO of Make Your Mark Publishing Solutions, Monique D. Mensah is a native of Detroit. We were so excited when we heard of her latest release, Death’s Companion, we tracked down this Michigan beauty to see what she has been up to as of late.

Photo provided by Monique Mensah

SLM: So it’s been awhile since you’ve released an independent novel, what have you been up to, and how long did it take to write the completed draft to Death’s Companion? MDM: In addition, to being an author, I’ve been a freelance copy editor for nine years. I always did both, writing and editing for other independent authors simultaneously, but three years ago, I decided to expand my editing business to include self-publishing solutions. So I’ve been focusing on growing Make Your Mark Publishing Solutions since then. I actually wrote the final draft for Death’s Companion two years ago and I’m just now getting around to publishing. It took me two years to write and then rewrite the manuscript twice before I got it the way I wanted it. That’s a long time for me. It usually takes me about six months to write a novel. SLM: Death’s Companion sounds like a very intriguing read. The cover is hot to death as well. What is the concept of this story line? MDM: I can’t share too much of the concept without giving it away, but Death’s Companion is perhaps the darkest installment in the Malignant Mind Series. Kameron Peace did the unthinkable fifteen years ago and now her guilt and shame are torturing her through alcoholism and attempt suicide. When she hires a psychotherapist to help her cope and follows her unorthodox treatment, she learns that what she thought was a psychological breakthrough, turns out to be her absolute ruin. SLM: We know you all-to-well as a psycho-thriller novelist, would you ever explore outside of the genre? If so, which genre?

MDM: I would definitely veer outside of the psycho-thriller genre if I came up with a dope story idea. Interestingly, though, every story that comes to mind seems to be dark and disturbing. I would perhaps try mystery or paranormal. SLM: What is it like to hear and see these characters in you head? Does it ever affect your real-life? MDM: I love when I create characters who stick with me, day and night, who just won’t leave me alone because they have to tell me their stories. It gets me excited about the story! I try to make notes during the day on my phone or on a legal pad so I can keep up with all the ideas. SLM: You main character, Kameron Peace, how is he/she similar to you and your characteristics? Who was the inspiration behind creating the character? MDM: I don’t believe Kameron is similar to me at all. I don’t usually base my characters off of myself or my own experiences. My inspiration when inventing her character was to create someone who would act, live, and be in a way that was realistic to what she had been through in her past. I wanted to create a woman who was burdened by guilt, shame, and depression, and Kameron Peace was born. SLM: What do you want people to take away from reading Death’s Companion? MDM: I just want people to be entertained from beginning to end, that’s all. Readers may also walk away with some new knowledge about sociopaths as well.

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SLM: Make Your Mark. Tell us about your company and why you started it? MDM: I’ve been a freelance editor since 2007. But I noticed that after the editing process was complete, several of my clients would ask, “Okay, now what?” They knew that I had self-published books and wanted me to give them advice on how to complete the process as I had. So I figured I would just do it for them and that’s how Make Your Mark came to be. Make Your Mark Publishing Solutions is a sort of ghost publishing firm. We complete the entire self-publishing process for independent authors, from editing to print, and the author retains all rights and all profits from sales. SLM: One of the most overlooked prepublication factors is EDITING? There are so many new authors who skip this first step or are taking shortcuts. As an editor, can you explain the importance of this step and the importance of having it done properly such as finding editors who fit your genre? MDM: Editing is the single most important step in the publishing process, especially for independent authors, who are already working against a stigma that says that their books aren’t of the same quality of traditionally published books. An author may have a great story, but with poor execution and copy editing, the readers won’t be able to appreciate it. Readers won’t take an unedited or poorly edited book seriously and the author loses credibility. This is not the step to cut corners. If you are serious about your work then hire an editor who can help turn your manuscript into a masterpiece. SLM: Thank you so much for participating in our interview. Before you go can you tell us what’s next for the exceptional Monique D. Mensah? MDM: Death’s Companion released on my birthday, September 27, 2016! Being that it was my first book in four year, I was so excited. I will continue to grow Make Your Mark and walk in my purpose as an author until I am no longer capable of doing either.

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Photo provided by Monique Mensah

Anthony Grier, Amytza, And Justice Adderley Star In A Donnell Hicks Original Film A story of love, mental illness, and domestic violence, LOVE IN YOUR FACE is a hot fresh look into the lives of a love triangle that’s not so modern. A new kind of twist to your average Cinderella story, you find Vanessa, a lower middle-class woman engaged to Damian, a successful CEO at Blackmon Cosmetics. She quickly feels threaten when her identity is being forced to change for this new high-class society. Landon, her exboyfriend, soon helps her realize that being who you are shouldn’t come at a price. We caught up with the cast to discuss their roles in the movie.

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Anthony Grier...As

Damian

HIS CO-STARS “Working on films in the past gave me the opportunity to see and understand how another actor can bring something out of another actor. Amytza can get you in a zone and bring out the best in you. She can make that connection needed to make the scene come alive. She is the type of actor you look forward to working with again. I had the opportunity to watch Justice perform and his passion for his work is amazing.”

HIS ACTING SKILLS “Growing up, my fear of public speaking got the best of me many times. I was always the quiet one and had a hard time speaking in groups. Working up the guts to take an improv class was way out of my comfort zone. The more I did it the easier it got. Those classes really helped me develop range in my acting. Playing many different characters and expressing various emotions was not only fun but challenging.”

HIS ORIGINAL STYLE “My character is completely different from who I am. Damian has a selfish nature with

no regard for another persons feelings. I can be selfish in some aspects in life, but when it comes to another human being, being helpful and compassionate is a part of me I can’t deny. It is who I am.”

HIS VIEWS ON TOPIC OF FILM “The movie tackles mental illness and domestic violence, which are major issues. Looking at the media coverage of the senseless violence across America today, we must find the root to these issues so we can bring about a more peaceful cohesive society.

HER ON-SCREEN EXPERIENCE

Amytza Maskati ...As

conditioner, body wash, and lotion. It’s no accident it’s called, “It’s truly a rewarding experience. “stress relief aromatherapy” by We each had to learn how the Bath & Body Works. The eucalypother works best and tune in to tus spearmint essential oils clear each other. Donnell’s generosity the mind and uplift the spirit. I let of spirit marks him as a visionary my hair air dry so I can work hard screenwriter. Anthony’s insight and play harder! Eating healthy and dedication allowed me to foods, sleeping sufficient hours, delve deep and express a full leading an active lifestyle and range of emotions. Justice’s having fun are no secret and yet charm and sensitivity made it these are the keys to unlock inner effortless for me to connect with and outer beauty all the time!” him on camera. It was a pleasure EXPRESSING HERSELF to recreate long lost love onscreen with him.” “My name is Amytza and it

HER BEAUTY SECRETS rhymes with pizza. I live an ex“On and off screen I keep it simple traordinary life I love. As a fiery and natural. My mother recently Leo with a passion for languages gifted me my favorite shampoo, and the performing arts, family

Vanessa

and community, purpose and achievement, I shine as the possibility of love, joy, compassion, support, and leadership in this world. I am a multilingual actress, singer, dancer, Zumba instructor, writer, broadcast journalist, emcee and motivational speaker with many more hats under my belt.”

FAMILY VALUES “I was raised in an interfaith and intercultural household in which we acknowledge many languages of love. I relate to my character “Vanessa” because she is brave, listens to her heart, and stands up for herself to live the life she deserves. She empowers me as a woman to embrace who I am.”

Justice Adderley ...As

Landon HIS CHARACTER’S STYLE

Photos provided by Donnell Hicks

“Landon’s style is lax, which is the complete polar opposite to Damian, even though they have striking similarities. Landon has a lot on his mind and can seem stressed at times due to the love triangle he has found himself in. Landon is definitely blinded by myself. With this in mind, I definitely want more projects under some of his own emotions.” my belt along with finding a mentor that will further my HIS INSPIRATION knowledge in this career. I want “Striving to not only be a better to be remembered for meaningactor, but a person as well is my ful work.” inspiration. Too many people have regrets of not following HIS EVERYDAY their dreams and/or getting conformed going along with the ROUTINE norm. Know that you can be and “Going to school full-time, and do anything. Never give up.” working part-time at a local movie theatre starts a typical day for me. Vocal lessons, time at the HIS GOALS gym, or hanging out with friends “I’m an aspiring actor and my and family consumes my spare goals come in numerous shapes time.” and sizes. I’m hungry for acting jobs local and distant. I have many minor goals set out for

A FREE

MOVIE POSTER Want to receive a movie poster for “Love Is In Your Face” by Donnell Hicks? It’s easy. For your chance to win simply clip this coupon*, enter your information, and send to: Strawberry –Lit Magazine Dept. LOVE IS IN YOUR FACE P.O. Box 895 Rison, AR 71665 Name___________________________________ Address_________________________________ City____________________________________ State___________________________________ Zip_____________________________________ HURRY! Supplies are limited and this offer is only good until they run out. *Only original magazine coupons will be accepted.

LaQueisha Award-Winning Author born and raised in Arkansas. She is a Poet, Author, Publisher, Aspiring Model, and Entrepreneur. In 2015, she was awarded the AAMBC Literary Award for Poet of the Year held in Atlanta, GA.

Photo provided by LaQueisha Malone

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Ericka Photo provided by Ericka Johnson-Reams

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Self-Published Author of seven books, she writes to motivate and inspire. She is also an Event Planner, Photographer, Boutique Owner, and Hairstylist. With these many hats under her belt, she is bound for greatness.

Justin Q Young

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Photo provided by Justin Young

Bringing you vivid detailed imagery through his words, Justin makes escaping into his stories effortless. He defines the spectrum in artistic through painting, drawing, and graphic design. His ingenuity consistently broadens his professional admiration.

Shani

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Photo provided by Shani Greene-Dowdell

Shani is not only an Author and Publisher, but a Playwright who was given The Key to the City by the City of Tuskegee for her stage plays. She has received special honors at the AALAS and the Liberty Theater.

Photo credited via Facebook

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MK ASANTE Best-selling author, award-winning filmmaker, rapper, and professor who CNN calls â&#x20AC;&#x153;a master storyteller and major creative forceâ&#x20AC;? is the author of four books. Traveling the world, he tells his story encouraging others to do the same.

London Photo provided by Latoya Wilson

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This 2015 IR Author Swirl Award winner for Best Paranormal Romance hails from Georgia, and has a deep passion for reading and writing. She hopes to sponsor shelters for domestic abuse victims throughout the United States.

Rod Ballard

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Photo provided by Rod Ballard

This South Carolina native began writing in 2012. Smooth Jazz and R&B are among the listings on his playlist to gear up for his next masterpiece or the gym. Follow this author as he tells you the true Confessions of a Womanizer.

MARCUZ O’KEY Inspires with this red velvet blazer. It’s perfect for the holiday season.

Photo provided by Marcuz O’Key

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MARCUZ O’KEY Inspires in this leather jacket with a soft lining and hood.

Photo provided by Marcuz O’Key

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hen she first entered the world of publishing in 2008 with “A New Pair of Shoes… Step In Mine” (whew, I know. That’s a long title), LaQueisha was like many of us, novice to the aspect of everything it would take to get known or recognized as an author. Self-publishing was still fairly new, and to say you’ve had a book out was more than enough to be excited about at that time. You had all your family and friends support, and their promises to purchase a signed copy as soon as it releases.

Yet, she quickly found out that merely shouting to the mountain top, “I am an author! Go & purchase my book!” wasn’t enough. Without the right strategies in marketing and promoting, it was hard building an audience. The self-pity didn't last long though. She took some time off from publishing and studied the craft of writing and promoting, and have built a huge following. Years later, the AAMBC Poet of the Year award-winning author added Modeling, Publisher, Mentor, and Motivational Speaker to her accomplishments. With such titles as “Cell of the Mind”, “Love, Marriage, and Divorce” we’re all in high anticipation of the upcoming novel, “Secrets Amongst Friends”, set to release early 2017. 

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Breathtakingly beautiful, LaQueisha is not one to sleep on.

Photo provided by LaQueisha Malone

Here, LaQueisha shows off her style from her photoshoot as a model. Her style is Edgy, but Sweet.

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WIN

Directions: Personality Adjectives are adjectives used to describe a person and their character or personality. Below there are 27 personality adjectives hidden in this Word Search. The words are diagonal, horizontal, vertical, forward, and backwards. Enter to win a $100 Visa Card by finding at least 21 words.

——————————————————————————— YES! Sign me up to the Strawberry-Lit Magazine newsletter and the Strawberry Publications newsletter. NO! Don’t sign me up to the Strawberry-Lit Magazine newsletter and the Strawberry Publications, LLC newsletter.

Name________________________________________________________ Mailing Address________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ Email_________________________________________________________ Participant must be 18+ or older to enter. Giveaway only valid December 1, 2016 12:00AM to January 31, 2017 11:59PM. Must be postmarked by January 31, 2017. Any entries after that date are disqualified. $100 will be awarded as a Visa Card. Please print clearly. Mail this entire page to Strawberry-Lit Magazine; Dept. Word Search; PO Box 895; Rison, AR 71665.

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COVER SNAPSHOTS

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The Point of View (POV) refers to the vantage point from which readers observe the events of the story. There are three major types of viewpoints that are commonly used in writing. First-Person, Third-Person, and Omniscient Narrator. Below we have compiled a few scenarios for you to play with. Circle the letter that best describes how you would word the sentence. Then the letters with the most circles describes your best POV of storytelling. Have fun! NOTE: This is one only a fun activity and is not meant to read into anyone’s future writing style or POV.

 1. Pete wants to take Nora out; therefore he swoons her with flowers. A. I got to work at seven-fifteen so I could leave the flower and the card for Nora without anybody watching. I filled the bud vase with water from the drinking fountain, put the daffodil in it, set the vase on Nora’s desk, and leaned the envelope against it. B. Pete got to work at seven-fifteen so he could leave the flower and the card for Nora without anybody watching. He filled the bud vase with water from the drinking fountain, put the daffodil in it, set the vase on Nora’s desk, and leaned the envelope against it. C. When he was ready at last, he wrote his invitation on a whimsical Sandra Boynton card and left it on her desk with a single daffodil. The single flower was in a slender vase.

2. Sharon was nervous to ride the bus. A. When the bus came, I got on, carrying my pink backpack. It was the first day of school, and I was nervous. I smiled, though, when I saw my best friend Kevin sitting in the back. B. When the bus came, Sharon got on, carrying her pink backpack. It was the first day of school, and Sharon was nervous. She smiled, though, when she saw her best friend Kevin sitting in the back. C. When the bus came, Sharon got on, carrying her pink backpack. It was the first day of school, and Sharon was nervous. She smiled, though, when she saw her best friend Kevin sitting in the back. Kevin was nervous, too. So, he was thrilled to see Sharon. Maybe this day would not be so bad after all.

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3. It’s John’s birthday, and he’s excited. A. It was early. Way too early for me to be bounding out of bed, racing down the hallway, and leaping onto my sleeping parents. But I did it anyway! I hurtled myself into my parent’s quiet bedroom, shouting, “It’s my birthday! It’s my birthday!” My parents slowly woke from their slumber as I squealed, “When do we eat cake? When do we open presents?” “That’s a long way off, mister,” my mother said. “Your party isn’t until tonight, and we have plenty of things to do to get ready before your guest arrive.” I pretended to grumble.

B. It was early. Way too early for John to be bounding out of bed, racing down the hallway, and leaping onto his sleeping parents. But he did it anyway! He hurtled himself into his parents’ quiet bedroom, shouting, “It’s my birthday! It’s my birthday!” His mouth watered with the thought of birthday ice cream sundaes as he squealed, “When do we eat cake? When do we open presents?! “Uh-oh,” thought John’s mom. She knew she still had to buy his special gift a new cherry-red bike. “That’s a long way off, mister,” his mother said. “Your party isn’t until tonight, and we have plenty of things to do to get ready before your guest arrive.” John pretended to grumble.

C. It was early. Way too early for John to be bounding out of bed, racing down the hallway, and leaping onto his sleeping parents. But he did it anyway! He hurtled myself into his parents’ quiet bedroom, shouting, “It’s my birthday! It’s my birthday!” His mouth watered with the thought of birthday ice cream sundaes as he squealed, “When do we eat cake? When do we open presents?” “That’s a long way off, mister,” his mother said. “Your party isn’t until tonight, and we have plenty of things to do to get ready before your guest arrive.” John pretended to grumble.

Cited Sources: 1. Pete wants to take Nora out; therefore he swoons her with flowers (Writing Great Short Stories by Margaret Lucke). 2. Sharon was nervous to ride the bus (SoftSchools.com). 3. It’s John’s birthday, and he’s excited (Point of View Freebies, teacherspayteachers.com).

NOTE: If you have chosen an equal amount of letters and you can be classified as First Person Narrative, Third Person Narrative, and Omniscient Narrative than you are unsure of your writing style, and we recommend you continue to learn your craft and find your POV.

If you chose mostly…

FIRST PERSON NARRATIVE You write in First Person. In the First Person Point of View, one character acts as the narrator, directly telling us his/her own version of the events. The narrator refers to his/herself as I or me. The reader is given an experience that is as direct, intense, and immediate as the character’s own, presented in the narrator’s natural voice. The drawback is that you can tell the reader only what the narrator actually observes or knows firsthand.

THIRD PERSON NARRATIVE You write in Third Person. When you write in third person, the author, rather than the character, takes on the narrator's role. There is no I or me in third person, excerpt in dialogue. All of the characters, including protagonist, are he, she, and they. A third person narrative gives you a larger playing field. The tradeoff is that you sometimes sacrifice the high level of intimacy and the ease of reader identification that a first person narrative affords.

OMNISCIENT NARRATIVE You write in Omniscient Narrative. Omniscient means (The Author Knows Everything). There are no restrictions. You can describe what’s going on at every place and at every moment. You’re in every character’s head. There are also downfalls. Jump around too much from one character’s head to another, and your readers are likely to become distracted or befuddled rather than enlightened. STRAWBERRY-LIT 93

POET– AUTHOR– MOTHER

Photo provided by Cynthia Rubio

YNTHIA RUBIO is a Poet, Author, and the CEO & CoFounder of Prisons Read Free The Urban Authors Project non-profit organization.

with Cynthia Rubio

The life I gave to you.

You played me off the branches

Lived off the leaves of my tree. The body of the being of me.... Off my branches I gave you nothing but chances.

I gave you nothing but chances. And as the wind blew you away. It turns into another day. And my flowers did blossom. Now you mad cause Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m flossing.

One after another you overlook and took. Drank out of my brook. And your leaves became even greener. You got a little meaner, as you nourished yourself and thought of no one else.

You forgot I gave you life!! And nothing else is right. But as a leaf you fell. Forgot I am your world. Mother of your nature. Grounded and rooted. Thought you knew this.

Me being the mother to your life. Because the of the life I gave to Exposing you to the light. you. Stepped out your way and let you Remember off my tree you grew. fall. Because after all I gave providing you shade.

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Photo provided by Vanesssa Santiago-Jerman

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By Vanessa Santiago-Jerman

was listening to two children playing in the park, one little girl was telling the other to do something she didn’t want to do, and calling her a baby because she didn’t want to do it, and eventually the other little girl gave in. Now, it wasn’t anything major, it was just to play rope, but the little girl was refusing to because apparently she knew how to turn, but didn’t know how to jump and didn’t want the other girls teasing her because she didn’t know how to jump. So although it wasn’t a serious matter it was a situation where a child was forced or pressured into doing something they didn’t want to do.

tell on bullies because they feel it is wrong to snitch, some because they don’t want their parents or friends to know they are afraid. Guess what, everyone is scared of someone, or something. Children are now more than ever being attacked by bullies, and not only physically but verbally, emotionally, online, and so many more ways.

I wrote two books on bullying: one is called Allen the 4th Grade Bully and the other is Standing Up to Lori Green, its two stories showing the boy and girl side of being a bully. These books not only tell the stories of two bullies, but it shows how the children who were being bullied handled it. Allen the 4th Grade Bully has discussion questions at the end of the book that can be used to I ask people all the time did their child discuss the topic of bullying with your ever experience being bullied and I get children as well as be used to develop this answer over and over again, “not a lesson plan for a class. I believe my child”, she/he knows how to defend schools should have a NO BULLY campaign annually, and that there should his/herself. I sometimes think parents be strict rules on bullying. are in denial, or just oblivious to what is going on when their child is not in their I started a group on Facebook called eyes view. Your child could be a victim Bullying is Real join it and share your views on bullying. https:// of bullying and you not even know it. www.facebook.com/Bullying-is-REALMany children are bullied in their 801715103305165/?fref=ts homes by older siblings, in school by Also if you are interested in purchasing classmates, in the neighborhood by local children or friends. A lot of these the bullying books I wrote they can be ordered on Amazon. cases of bullying can lead to someone getting seriously hurt. Not every child reports that they are under attack of a bully, and not every situation is visible enough to recognize it. As parents we have to keep the lines of communication open, we must let them know we are there for them, make them feel safe enough to come to us without feeling less than a person, or being ashamed of what we will think or how we will act. Some children don’t

View this full article on our website www.StrawberryLitMagazine.com

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Elf Pink Slip Creative Writing Contest Begins Rosa Parks Day

Regina Bumbrey

It’s A Writer’s World 1st Annual BOOK FAIR

Pretend To Be A Time Traveler Day

10 Nobel Prize Day

24 Brenda Stokes Lee released her first book (2011) Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

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31 New Year’s Eve Elf Pink Slip Creative Writing Contest Ends Make Up Your Mind Day

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Back From the Future Creative Writing Contest Begins

National Science Fiction Day

4 National Trivia Day

National Screenwriters Day

National Personal Trainer Awareness Day

National Clean Off Your Desk Day

Martin Luther King, Jr

Aaliyah Haughton

National Vision Board Day

21 National Hugging Day

Lovey Vawters MLK Day

National Handwriting Day

Terrell Polite

Back From the Future Creative Writing Contest Ends

Photo of Aaliyah taken from Aaliyah.com.

Taking Chances with Chance Jolivette, a rapper born and raised in Louisiana. He started out writing poetry at a young age and gradually transitioned into writing lyrics. His musical style can best be described as lyrical, heartfelt, and at times aggressive. “I speak about dreams with a realistic look at life from the perspective of somebody at the bottom rather than a fantasy of having everything. In short my style is realism.” His inspiration comes from artist such as 2Pac, Bone, Thugs, & Harmony, and the innovative mogul Jay-Z, which makes his style unique and at a much faster pace than most Louisiana artist.

til 2009, when he produced the 12 In The Fiscal Project, releasing a mixtape every month, that he became pleased with his growth and progression. Artist he has collaborated with are Le Gem Dior, Gamemob, David Kristopher, Slo MO, Jon Henry, and Van Solo. His goal in this music industry is to be heard and respected. “Truthfully, I rap because it helps me out in life as an outlet, and hopefully it can help someone else.” To date he has recorded and produced over 50 albums. Some of his fan favorites are Infamous and Famous, Pink Matter Remix, and Runaway Remix. He is currently working on “Mortem Somnium” (Death of A Dream). You can found out more about this talented recording artist on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram as @chancejolivette

“IN SHORT MY STYLE IS

REALISM.”

Photo provided by Chance Jolivette

He released his first mixtape, Blue Magic Remix, Christmas Eve in 2007 remixing songs from Jay-Z, Kanye, and Lupe. Eight months later he followed with Therapy Session, but it wasn’t un-

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Strawberry Publications, LLC host a monthly creative writing short story contest on their website. Each month there is a new prompt from Writer’s Digest Book of Writing Prompts presented for writers. Below you find one of the winning story for the month of September 2016 titled The Beautiful Voice. It was written by Charlotte Smith. Writing Prompt: You’ve received a bill in the mail and it’s incorrect. There’s a phone number to call so you give it a ring. The person who answers has a beautiful voice. After several minutes the issue is resolved, but you can’t help wondering who this person is with such a beautiful voice so you take a leap and ask the person out. Surprisingly, the person says yes. What happens next?

Sitting at work waiting for the phone to ring was getting to Marisa. I really need to keep something on my desk, she thought to herself, or I will go mad. Done with all the forms and paperwork that she had to do for the day, now it was the waiting game. Her desk was neat and clean, everything in order. Marisa Thomas had just started her job a few months ago at one of the local hospitals in town. They did not get too busy in her department as the afternoons wore on. Most people called first thing in the morning or early in the afternoon. I really need a life. This is just sad. She had just moved to Little Rock from a very small town in North Arkansas. The kind of town that if you didn’t leave, you would end up married to some local and having a bunch of kids who would grow up with the kids of people you went to school with and on and on it would go. Just as she was looking over her email again her phone rang. Clicking the ear piece on her headset, she answered, “Welcome to Account Services, my name is Marisa, how may I help you today?” What she was not prepared for was the voice on the other end. “Hello? I received a bill in the mail from this company listing services from an ER visit.” The voice washed over her like warm tea and honey, utterly soothing. “Yes sir, how may I help today?” Marisa had her hands over her keyboard ready to type but willing him to speak a little more before she had to concentrate on his request. “Yes, well…the thing is, I have not been to an emergency room since I was twelve and fell off the monkey bars trying to impress Becky Landers at recess,” the man said with a light tone to his voice. “I’m sure this was sent to me in error.” “One moment, sir.” Marisa opened her system to look up an account by other means. Usually the phone number would pop up an account, but it was from a blocked number. “Ok sir, may I have either your name or the service number on the bill?” As he was giving the information to her, it was hard to concentrate on the task in front of her. His voice was hypnotic. She thought to herself. So rich 106 STRAWBERRY-LIT

and creamy I could bathe in it. Bathe in it! Get a hold of yourself, you are a professional. Or close to one. “Robert Wilson at 436 Maple Street?” “Yes, you see, that's my name, my address, well most of it, but not the last four of the social on here.” She kept going back and forth from her screens, trying to see what was going on. “You said most of the address, what is incorrect on there? I know you say this isn't yours, but could you explain please?” “My address is in North Little Rock. This just has Little Rock.” “What? Wait? There is a difference between them? Really?” That is when she heard the full throated laugh. It made things go low and tight in her body. Oh my. This is not good...calm down, calm down stupid hormones. Lordy. Where is my dang tea? She had no idea what to do in this situation. Never had she had a man make her body react like this. It was unnerving to say the least. “Yes, there is a difference. Let me guess. You are not from around here are you?” There was that light tone in his voice again. Marisa was getting more and more curious about her caller. Wondering what he looked like. If he was as good looking as he sound? She could picture a man with dark, thick hair, deep brown eyes with a square jaw and a crooked smile. Well, she could dream. “No.” She said, “I'm not from here. A small town north of the state.” “Ah, well, there are a lot of nice little places around town to go eat at or visit. Not talking about any of the big restaurants or chains, but the little diners and such that are always just busy enough so you are not alone or too crowded. I know a couple of them that are close if you would be I interested sometime?” All of a sudden it clicked. “Ok, Rob? What is your date of birth?” There goes that laugh again. “Now either you don't want to outright ask me my age because I might be too old for you, you could be dodging the question, or it’s about the account.”

Marisa fiddled with her pen while talking, “Well, I might have found the error you were talking about. And the other, well, umm.” “Ok, ok. I won't corner you with it.” He said laughing a little. “My birthday is September the second 1979.” “Please hold for one moment.” As she was typing and hitting command keys on her desktop she was thinking about what he said. Little diners to eat at. Places to visit. Am I going mad, or is this guy hitting on me through the phone? Things like that did not happen to her. She only had a few boyfriends growing up. One she thought she loved, until he broke it off with her for a girl in the next little town over. Her best friend back home always had the guys going after her. It sounded like something that would happen to tall, blonde and beautiful Nicole. Not short, curvy, dark Marisa. “Alright, I see on the account the date of birth is also off. It looks as if you and this gentleman have the same name but slightly different address that could easily have gotten mixed up in the postal system. So, Mr. Wilson, you are off the hook for this ER visit.” “Whew. Thanks for that. Now, Miss Marisa, I don't want to anger a boyfriend or husband. Nor worry your parents or anything, but I was wondering if you wouldn't mind taking me up on that offer? Taking you somewhere to have dinner with me?” Rob’s voice had a hint of uncertainty in it. Was he really asking her out on a date? Only having spoken to her all of fourteen minutes on the phone? “Hello? Marisa, are you there?” “Yes, I'm here. Look that's a lovely offer, but I'm not sure it's wise.” “I’m sorry. I was just going out on a limb asking you. I am just enjoying hearing you talk and you sound sweet. I wanted to keep it going. I would like to meet you, if possible. But I understand if you are in a relationship.” “No, it's not that,” she said. “I just. I don't really know how to answer is all.” “Well, if you are single, and if you might be hungry tonight, there is a little place off University that has great food. I don’t know if you already have plans tonight, it being Friday and all, but if not, and you want to meet, I will be there around 6:30. I will be at Meg’s Diner in a front booth.” “How will I know it's you? If I decide I’m hungry and out that way?” She heard a sigh on the other end of the line. “I will have two glasses of tea on the table. And only me sitting up front.” “Why tea?” “It's the South,” he said, “It's our signature drink. Please Marisa? Just come eat a meal with me and if you don't like me, then we don't have to see each other again. Just think about it, ok?” “Ok. I will think about it. Have a good afternoon,

Rob.” “You too, Marisa. Hope to see you soon.” And with that he hung up. Marisa wasn't sure what she had just gotten into. Normally, she wouldn't think twice about saying no, but it was his voice that got her. She knew it was crazy, but she had the urge to see him. Needed to hear him talk to her, say her name again, but directly to her not over a phone. *** Thirty more minutes and she would be leaving for the day. She was the only one in the office for the last hour of work. It was Friday, and she had a date to get ready for. She couldn't wait to tell Nicole, but that would have to wait until Saturday. She was out camping with her family and had no cell service or Wi-Fi. They do it every year. Marisa went a few times with them when she was younger. Marisa’s mom died in a car wreck when she was little and her dad died a year ago from cancer. It was too hard to stay in the house, so she sold it and moved away. She liked the city. A big change from her little hometown. She just hadn't gotten around to making a lot of new friends. Of course, the girls at work, and her neighbors are friendly, but she hadn't got around to meeting new people. That has now changed, she thought. Rob, I hope you're not disappointed. But I AM doing this. She said to herself. It's time. Marisa couldn’t help, but smile and hum a little as she walked out to her car and drove the short distance home. She was so excited and preoccupied with thoughts about dinner with Rob, she never noticed the car parked on the street behind her house. *** There she is. Just perfect. Her soft gentle voice today on the phone. Perfect. Her small curvy body with all that dark curly hair. Perfect. All alone. Perfect. *** Ten hours later…… Detective Bryant walked down past the line of uniformed cops, EMT’s they didn't need, and a few stragglers from a night of fun down on River Market. Getting closer to the covered body that lay on the ground, the crimson stained sheet clung to a petite body, which held a tell-tale ribbon woven in long, dark hair. “Damn it! We got another one.” THE END © 2016 Charlotte Smith. All Rights Reserved.

STRAWBERRY-LIT 107

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Tis the season to kick back and enjoy The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, a heart-felt anthology featuring brand-new stories. —————————————————————————————— All I Want For Christmas by Car la P en nin gton Melissa is a mother of three and is going through a divorce with Travis, who had an affair that produced a child. A few weeks before Christmas she meets Dorian under embarrassing circumstances. Will Melissa’s Christmas be filled with cheer or will Santa come down the chimney carrying a bag full of coal? Make A Soulful Noise b y Shani Gr een e -Dowdell Donnie James loves his family with all of his heart. So when his wife, Rain, walks out the door Christmas morning after he sang his heart out to her, he is devastated. Rain makes this spontaneous decision move to New York City becoming a R&B sensation. When she is dragged back to Alabama old feelings resurface.

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Gathering of Authors 2016 The Gathering of Authors is a Charity Event hosted by Tammy Thompson. The proceeds benefits the Children of St. Jude and the Arkansas Children’s Hospital. This event is held yearly in Texarkana, AR. he Gathering of Author’s In the Fall event takes place every year in October. LaQueisha Malone had the pleasure of attending this phenomenal event two years in a row.

This event is truly an event dedicated to helping children of St. Jude and the Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and we only hope that we can see more Gathering of Author events abroad who come together for a common cause to support our children.

Authors from 2015 event included but was not limited to LaQueisha Malone, Bryan Walker, MarIt is a two day weekend event beginning on Friday quis Cooper, Matthew White, and more. Attendwith a Meet & Greet Charity Dinner ($25 value with ing authors for 2016 event included but was not pre-paid reservations), which the monies are split limited to LaQueisha Malone, Bryan Walker, between the two charities. After the dinner, auMatthew White, and more. To support this cause thors are allowed to setup their tables. The host visit www.gatheringofauthors.com provides the author with a badge, table, and one poster. Saturday is the actual event beginning around 10AM to 4PM. There is music, workshops, and raffle drawings to win prizes. They have a souvenir booklet with the weekend events highlighted, each individual author gets a page with their bio and picture, sponsors are listed, and there is a reserved space for AUTHOR AUTOGRAPHS.

Photo provided by LaQueisha Malone

Topaz Publishing sponsors a yearly writing contest where they publish a compilation of short stories titled Dream Catchers from many children across the region between Arkansas and Texas who range from Kindergarten to eight grade. One of the most memorable moments and treasures of the event is on Saturday when the children who were published in the Dream Catcher’s compilation come and autograph the books for people who choose to purchase a copy. This year made their 5th Volume.

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