Love & Regrets
by Sheryl Mallory-Johnson
SEXY PASSIONATE HEART STOPPING!
If love was uncomplicated, this would be a simple story with a fairytale ending - add betrayal, lies, secrets, family drama, and sexual exploits, and love spirals out of control.
Carmen, a thirty something mother of one, is happily married to her loving husband Devon - so she thinks. At the wrong time in her life, along comes Kendall, the man who awakens a side of Carmen that is better left slumber – her oversexed side. Carmen can’t seem to get enough of Kendall, even at her wits end. Facing a sure divorce isn’t Carmen’s worse fear; losing her prestigious job has her equally petrified; and Kendall, who happens to be her employee, is out to make sure both take place. Can Carmen salvage her life or has she done irreparable damage?
Second to God no one is more important to Tempest than Sterling. Her every waking moment is spent planning to wed the “Cinderfella” of the NFL, that is until media sensationalism comes into play. Desperate to uncover the truth, Tempest sets out to prove naysayers wrong. Is Sterling up to no good or should Tempest hold fast to her belief in fairytales and happily ever after?
Dana has one desire - to own a home, marry and start a family by her 27th birthday. That sounds simple enough, if Omar, the man Dana loves, would step up. Enter into the picture Matthew, a modest rich man who woos Dana with romantic excursions and exciting adventures. No sooner than Dana allows Matthew to encroach upon her heart, Omar proves her perceptions of him wrong. Has Dana just made the biggest mistake of her life or is Matthew more than meets the eye?
Love & Regrets exposes the struggles of commitment, the human capacity to rise above hatred and revenge, and the power of love and kinship. READ MORE: http://www.sherylmallory-johnson.com/Page_8.html
Purchase Love & Regrets by Sheryl Mallory-Johnson Today!
PUBLISHED BY WANASOMA BOOKS
ISBN-10: 0982208529
ISBN-13: 978-0982208526
ORDER NOW!
Buy Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble for the Kindle and Nook
Meet Sheryl Mallory-Johnson
"I write for my own enjoyment. If I don't enjoy my stories, no one else surely will."
Sheryl Mallory-Johnson was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from Texas Southern University, and a Masters Degree in Social Work from San Diego State University.
Among Sheryl's many passions, writing a good book is chief. While working in child welfare some years ago, Sheryl discovered her true purpose in life, writing real stories about real people. She began her writing career as a screenwriter and was ultimately led to writing novels. She went on to adapt her first two screenplays into her first published novels. Sheryl's endeavor didn't come easy. Taking a series of writing courses, attending writer's workshops and leaning on her lifelong love of literature, Sheryl became a true novelist. "In any career choice, educating yourself is a necessity," Sheryl says.
Sheryl Mallory-Johnson focuses on relationship stories. Why? She is obsessed with understanding why we do what we do. Her understanding of human behavior allows her to create characters that feel as close to readers as a next door neighbor. When she isn't weaving a riveting tale, Sheryl is mentoring young adults, enjoying time with family and friends, or simply enjoying this "thing" called life. Along with being a full-time novelist, Sheryl works as an Associate Professor of Literature, as well as provides book coaching and novel writing services to aspiring authors.
Sheryl continues to reside in Southern California with her family. She is currently working on her fourth novel, as well as book two of L.A. Summer. For more information about Sheryl Mallory-Johnson's novel writing services, visit LEARN2WRITERIGHT.COM. Official Website: http://www.sherylmallory-johnson.com. Follow her on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/SMalloryJohnson. Facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/SherylMalloryJohnson
Intimate Conversation with Sheryl Mallory-Johnson
Sheryl Mallory-Johnson was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She holds a BA from Texas Southern University, and an MSW from San Diego State University. Among Sheryl's many passions, writing a good book is chief. Her understanding of human behavior allows her to create characters that feel as close to readers as a next-door neighbor. Along with being a novelist, Sheryl works as an Associate Professor and provides novel writing services to aspiring authors. Sheryl continues to reside in Southern California and is currently working on her fourth novel.
BPM: What are you the most thankful for now?
I’m thankful for so much – my health, my family, my life - living my passion is icing on the cake.
BPM: When did you get your first inkling to write, and how did you advance the call for writing?
It had to be middle school when I attempted to write my first book. However, like so many young people, I set aside my natural inclination, gave in to doubt and fear, and set my sights on another career. I am grateful that my inkling returned many years later. My fascination with people and my love for examining human behavior drove me back to what I love most - writing true-to-life stories about real people.
BPM: How did you initially break into the publishing industry? What road did you travel? How do you feel about self-publishing?
Breaking into the publishing industry was not easy, nor was it extremely difficult once I gave up my resolve to get picked up by a reputable publishing company. After numerous rejection letters, and one offer that left much to desire, I took a leap of faith. I’ve since learned that there is not a right way to break into the publishing industry, but there is definitely a wrong way - not delivering a quality product to readers.
BPM: Do you have anyone in your life that was heavily influential in your deciding to become an author?
My mother’s praise of my writing talent, long before I had the notion to complete a novel, was a great influence. In addition, if not for my husband wholeheartedly supporting my harebrain idea to quit my job as a Social Worker and become a fulltime novelist, I may never have taken the leap. Then there is God, for him a give thanks for all things!
BPM: What have you realized about yourself since becoming a published author?
I’ve realized that one book isn’t enough for my insatiable need to write, neither is one good story. I strive, every time I sit before my computer, to take the reader on a memorable experience, full of twist, turns, excitement, passion, and surprises.
I’ve also realized that I have more than one writing style and voice. The characters and storyline determines my style of writing, which ranges from commercial, plot driven stories as with Love & Regrets or poignant story with a literary slant, as with Sense of Love. I enjoy the versatility.
BPM: What are some of the benefits of being an author that makes it all worthwhile?
The greatest benefit that makes writing all worthwhile for me is watching my characters come to life, seeing them conquer their fears, grow, mature, solve their problems then releasing them into the universe to live out their dreams. Sounds a little esoteric, but that’s how I see it.
BPM: Do you have any advice for people seeking to publish a book?
My advice for aspiring writers is to take yourself seriously from the start, study the craft, seek advice, take advantage of constructive criticism, and be true to your values and your voice before you attempt to publish. Lastly, love what you do!
BPM: Introduce us to your book and the main characters. Do you have any favorites?
Love & Regrets follows the lives of three women who must come to grips with betrayal, lies, secrets, family Drama, sexual exploits and more to solve their relationship challenges.
Love & Regrets is an eventful, heart-stopping, passionate, drama about what it means to love someone unconditionally. From the beginning of this story, readers are taken on an emotional ride with twist, turns, pitfalls and surprises to the very end.
I can go on and on about Love & Regrets and the characters in this book. I love them all, so it’s hard for me to choose a favorite. Although the Heroines in this story are captivating in their own right, readers, the women specifically, will fall as hard for the men in this story as Carmen, Tempest and Dana.
BPM: What inspired you to write this book? Why now?
I’m forever inspired to write stories that tackle relationship issues, not just between men and women, but parent-child, siblings, friendships, etc. Love & Regrets is a great contemporary relationship story that covers all facets of relationships, the good, the bad, the ugly, the beautiful and all that falls in between.
BPM: Are any scenes from the book borrowed from your world or your experiences?
Absolutely! I would venture to say that most writers borrow from true-life experiences. However, the craft of writing fiction is to have a vivid imagination, and the ability to separate your personal experiences from your characters, giving them the liberty to choose their own way.
My own experiences and those around me also inspired this story. For much of my life I have been the one my friends seek for advice and guidance when it comes to relationship issues. I do my best to keep a balanced perspective, to have an open heart, and give then hope and encouragement. I hope that my outlook comes across in this book.
BPM: In writing your novels, how do you develop the plot?
I start with an overall concept and build from there. I don’t like to box myself into unbending plotlines. Although I give my characters guidance, much like a parent would raising a child, I ultimately let them find their own way and trust the process, this way I’m as a surprised by the outcomes as the reader and I avoid predictability
BPM: How much research was required, if any?
For me, research is an integral part of the writing process. If I can’t Google it, I dial up a friend, contact a company rep, visit a location, do whatever I need to do to tell a realistic story. The more that I know about a character’s life or a particular setting, the more descriptive I can be and the better connected the reader will feel.
BPM: Who do you want to reach with your book and the message enclosed?
I want to reach as many women as I can with this book. For African-American women particularly, Love & Regrets gives us hope, sheds a refreshing light on black men, and boldly addresses relationship issues that many women and men have encountered, but desperately hope to avoid.
The ultimate message enclosed in this story is twofold: Where there is love there is bound to be regrets, and relationships can only be as perfect as the individuals in them are. Since none of us measure up, no relationship is drama free. Yet perception is everything and not always reality.
BPM: What should readers DO after reading this book?
Readers should call everyone that they know and say, “I JUST finished reading Love & Regrets, a novel you must read!” Readers can also write a review on Amazon and/or Barnes and Noble.com, connect with me on FB, LIKE my Fan age, Tweet their feedback or send me a private note on my website. I would love to hear from you!
BPM: Share with us a quote or brief excerpt from one of the most powerful chapters.
Here is a quote from Chapter One, “A Thin Line From Crazy”, as told from Carmen’s POV:
“It had to be a family curse that caused her marriage to fall apart. Her sister’s marriage didn’t last, and her own parents’ marriage finally caved in to their bickering and unhappiness after so long. Her grandparents’ marriage, by a miracle, surpassed the forty-year mark.
“Just because you crossed the finish line, doesn’t mean you’ve won the race, Carmen. Put more energy into staying married than you put into getting married, and don’t be fool enough to think you’re the only woman in the running. There’s always someone waiting in the wings, ready to take your gold.”
Her grandmother’s advice came while Carmen was being laced with a string of pearls that had passed from neckline to neckline on every blushing bride in her family. Carmen was beginning to think the pearls were cursed. It wasn’t as if she hadn’t run a good race, always looking over her shoulder, and never letting the dust settle under her feet, only to find out it wasn’t another woman she had to watch out for, but another man.”
###
BPM: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
Ultimately, I want readers to gain a memorable reading experience. I also want readers to learn and grow with each character, to gain an open mind and heart about love and relationships, and to know that what meets the eye can sometimes be deceiving.
BPM: We are here to shine the spotlight on your new book, but what's next? Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
On December 3, 2011, I held a pre-release launch of Love & Regrets in San Diego, California, which was a great success and great fun. January 2012 will mark Love & Regrets official Launch in Los Angeles. (Date & Location TBA) I am currently working on my fourth novel, projected release date 2013.
For more information about Sheryl Mallory-Johnson's novel writing services, visit LEARN2WRITERIGHT.COM. Official Website: http://www.sherylmallory-johnson.com. Follow her on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/SMalloryJohnson. Facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/SherylMalloryJohnson
Sneek Peek: Love & Regrets
Love & Regrets tells the story of three women and their struggles with commitment, betrayal, lies, secrets, family drama and sexual exploits. Carmen is a happily married woman –that is until Kendall comes along, the man who awakens a side of Carmen that is better left slumber. Facing a sure divorce isn’t Carmen’s worse fear; losing her prestigious job has her equally petrified; and Kendall, who happens to be her employee, is out to make sure both take place. Can Carmen salvage her life or has she done irreparable damage?
Second to God no one is more important to Tempest than Sterling. Her every waking moment is spent planning to wed the “Cinderfella” of the NFL, that is until media sensationalism comes into play. Is Sterling up to no good or should Tempest hold fast to her belief in fairytales and happily ever after?
Dana has one desire - to own a home, marry and start a family by her 27th birthday. That sounds simple enough, if Omar, the man Dana loves, would step up. Enter into the picture Matthew, a modest rich man who woos Dana with romantic excursions and exciting adventures. No sooner than Dana allows Matthew to encroach upon her heart, Omar proves her perceptions of him wrong. Has Dana just made the biggest mistake of her life or is Matthew more than meets the eye?
"Every Girl's Nightmare"
On a normal day Tempest Perry wouldn’t dare walk out of church during Pastor Lacey’s rousing sermon, with the entire congregation on its feet giving the Lord His praise. Today was anything but normal for Tempest. She slid discreetly from the pews and fled New Jerusalem Church before Mother Washington wished everyone a blessed day. At the rate she was moving, she could use Mother Washington’s blessing. Her long legs trotted in three-inch stilettos toward the parking lot with her chiffon sun dress floating against a light wind. Anxiety cloaked her like a creeping plant, making her all nerves. She dropped her keys and fumbled for the car lock, praying her ride back to Fox Hills would take the usual twenty minutes instead of thirty or forty. On a lazy Sunday, Los Angeles traffic could easily slow her down.
Barreling out of the lot in her cherry Mustang, Tempest cut a sharp right and got caught at the first light she approached. “Come on, come on,” she murmured. The light, thankfully, turned green. Tempest sped forward, getting caught behind a slow moving truck.
“The devil is a liar!” She cut to the next lane, accelerating to an illegal speed; all the while angry with herself for going to church on an important day like today. Anyone who knew her knew worshiping was the most important part of her life. But if anyone knew, Jesus knew Sterling was too.
Tempest first met Sterling two years ago at a pool party in L.A.’s sumptuous View Heights community. If love at first sight was possible, she and Sterling experienced it firsthand. From across the bustling yard their eyes met and never parted. Tempest could recall the feeling that came over her. Running to the bathroom to revive her make-up was her first impulse. Her skin dampened and her heart, she was sure, stopped beating momentarily. There were enough fine men at the party that night for Tempest to choose from, and no shortage with their eyes on her in the gold metallic bikini she wore, radiant against her mahogany skin.
But no man, past or present, captivated Tempest’s eyes and heart more than Sterling. When she and Sterling were close enough to speak, they couldn’t stop talking. They eventually ventured away from the party and sat in Sterling’s then Nissan truck, where they kept up their conversation until the party concluded, listened to what became ‘their song,’ and closed the night with their first kiss. The fact that a few years later Sterling would be an NFL rising star wouldn’t have mattered to Tempest. From then until now, she loved Sterling and would forever. Now she was counting down the months to her wedding day.
Tempest picked up speed. Peripherally, she saw cars falling back on the highway as hers dashed forward. She concentrated on the exit signs ahead as if willing herself home was possible. Going eighty miles an hour sure wasn’t getting her there fast enough. As she rounded a sharp bend, feeling the wheels of her car grip the blacktop unstably, she caught sight of a police car parked alongside the road. Her heart came to an instant standstill. She didn’t have time to get a speeding ticket. Please, Jesus.
By the grace of God Tempest arrived home not a second too late to see Sterling.
Now Tempest sat on her sofa, devastated, sick to her stomach, and tasting the salt of her tears. Everything she knew about her life moments ago felt surreal. Did what happened really happen, or had she never awakened from a nightmare?
She retraced her steps in her mind. It was Sunday morning. That, Tempest was certain of, recalling Pastor Lacey’s rousing sermon this morning and how she raced out of church, forsaking God for Sterling. She had rushed into her one-bedroom condo, tossed her handbag on the sofa, slipped off her stilettos, and turned on the TV, opting for the 42-inch flat screen in the living room, with high definition to better see and hear Sterling. The NFL pre-game special hadn’t started. A commercial gave her time to raid the refrigerator. Too nervous to digest anything of sustenance, she poured herself a shot glass of orange juice. After gulping down her breakfast, she stood before the television with her hands steepled in prayer.
Sterling’s name floated across the screen in bold letters - STERLING ALEXANDER STERLING...ALEXANDER...STERLING ALEXANDER. Clips played of Sterling charging up the field for the tackle. One after another, the clips highlighted Sterling’s aggressiveness, quickness and determination to tackle his opponent. Tempest squealed, clapped, and cheered as she had in high school.
The sports commentator appeared in the studio, a black man wearing a bright colored suit. Seated across from him, Sterling wore an Armani ensemble, tan with four buttons, and a royal blue dress shirt opened sexily at the collar. Tempest couldn’t have been more proud of herself. Apparel design was her profession, the main reason Sterling called her from Minneapolis and had her FedEx his wear. Working at Nordstrom’s, the leading apparel store in the country, had paid off. Sterling’s pretty dark skin glowed in the color combination she selected for him. His hair was freshly cut, his pencil beard and mustache perfectly lined, and the two-carat studs in his ears sparkled. New money couldn’t have looked better than her man did, Tempest thought.
“At six-four, two hundred and forty pounds,” the commentator said, “defensive linebacker Sterling Alexander led the Spartans in a thirty/twenty-one victory against the Panthers last week with two interceptions, five tackles, and two sacks. Fresh off the bench, filling the hole left by starter David Banks, who was injured in the preseason, Sterling took advantage of this career opportunity by giving Spartans fans a taste of his fearless aggression.” The commentator turned to Sterling.
“Last season, you could only dream of signing as an undrafted free agent for the Spartans. Now, your persistence has paid off. Do you see your story as an inspiration to other aspiring athletes hoping to make it in the pro league?”
“I don’t know if I’m an inspiration,” Sterling answered in his bass voice. “I’ve stayed focused on my goal, worked hard… been a team player. I hope that inspires anybody out there looking to be successful at whatever they do. Mostly, though, I think you have to be hungry for it, live for the opportunity. When it comes, be ready.”
“Tell ’em, boo!” Tempest cheered.
“You’re like the Cinder-fella of the league, an NFL fairytale story come true. At twenty-five, this is only your second season when other players are veterans. So, what’s your story, Sterling?”
Tempest recounted Sterling’s unconventional story along with him. How he played for two years at a junior college, earned a starting position and a full scholarship as a walk-on at USC, and the number of years he walked on and off fields, praying to get signed. When Sterling’s chance finally came, Tempest was by his side, helping him celebrate.
Sterling didn’t sign a twenty-five million dollar contract over five years like the top ball players. His was a six hundred thousand dollar, two-year deal in which he’d received a two hundred thousand dollar signing bonus. If Sterling made the lineup next season, however, he could renegotiate for a small fortune. Tempest had every intention of being at Sterling’s side—before what happened, happened.
The camera zoomed in for a close-up of the commentator, so close Tempest made out the deep pores on his golden brown skin. “Born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, Sterling says he’s starting to adjust to the Minnesota climate and the people. He even hopes to one day win over the hearts of Minnesota Spartans fans….”
Aiming at the stands, the camera panned the cheering crowd. In a split second, Tempest caught sight of her. Not her face, but her hair—long, brown spirals with blonde highlights. Her heart died when the commentator said, “Looks like Cinder-fella has already won the heart of one beautiful Spartans fan.”
Tempest couldn’t remember a scene or remark more. She went deaf, blind and cold to the bone. Silence came down on her like darkness, along with a torrent of tears.
( Continued... )
Copyright © 2011 by Sheryl Mallory-Johnson. Excerpted and reprinted for promotional purposes with permission of the author. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Purchase Love & Regrets by Sheryl Mallory-Johnson Today!
PUBLISHED BY WANASOMA BOOKS
ISBN-10: 0982208529
ISBN-13: 978-0982208526
ORDER NOW!
Buy Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble for the Kindle and Nook
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