Author: Michelle's Site

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Ten Best Books I’ve Read This Year – 2018

Here is a list of the ten books you should read (in no particular order):

 

#1 Whiskey & Ribbons – Leesea Cross-Smith

A story of loss and love. This book is so good, I wish I had written it. I’ve read this book twice. Once for the story and again to study the techniques. Excellent!

2. Pieces of Her – Karin Slaughter

It asks the question: How well do you really know someone?

3. Envy – Victoria Christopher Murray

The second installment in the author’s Seven Deadly Sins Series. What’s the difference between jealousy and envy? Read to find out.

4. We’re Going to Need More Wine – Gabrielle Union

A straight, no chaser tale of the life of the Hollywood girl next girl door.

5. The Wife Between Us – Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen

A riveting tale with an unexpected twist.

6. allegedly – tiffany d. jackson

This book was disturbing in a good way. An original story with a surprise ending.

7. An American Marriage – Tayari Jones

One of my favorite authors. She never disappoints.

8. A Conspiracy of Stars – Olivia A. Cole

 

Another one of my favorites. I don’t usually read science fiction but I love everything Olivia writes. And she is hilarious on Twitter.

9. Seducing Abby Rhodes – J. D. Mason

A love story with a dash of the supernatural.

10. The Last Black Unicorn – Tiffany Haddish

You know she’s hilarious. Find out how she became everyone’s favorite homegirl.

 

 

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Editing & More Editing

I love writing and making up stories. I’m beginning to embrace the art of editing.

Right now I have an editing deadline of Sunday night. Will I make it? #justkeepwriting

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Things I Learned from My First Book Signing

I had my first book signing, ya’ll! Now, I’ve been to more than a few signings for my favorite authors but it’s different when you’re on the other side of the table.

I didn’t know what to expect.  Would anyone show up?

I was nervous. What do I say if they show up?

I was excited. Oh my God, I can’t believe this is happening!!

And it turned out great. It was a big crowd and I sold more books than I thought I would. Here’s what I learned from the experience:

  1. Invest in a tablecloth. At the last minute I thought about the table covering and bought one from Dollar General. It got the job done but next time I want a more professional look.
  2. Pre-sign books.  It will save time.
  3. Take more pictures. I tried to do this myself and missed some good shots because I was talking with people. I might have to recruit a family member as my photographer.
  4. Pass out cards and bookmarks to everyone that walks by. They may not be a book reader but I bet they know one.
  5. Do a better job getting the notice out. Don’t rely solely on social media.
  6. Invest in bags. It’s another good way to advertise.
  7. Have fun!

The last one is the most important. I definitely had fun and meet some wonderful people.

 

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June 19th – World Sickle Cell Day

 

No copyright infringement is intended

Today is World Sickle Cell Day.  This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2008 in order to increase awareness about sickle-cell disease.

In my book, Moment of Truth, a character has the disease. I did extensive research and interviewed someone with the disease. I hope I did it justice.

Sickle Cell Disease is an inherited, genetic and potentially fatal disease.  About 80% of people with the disease are African-Americans.  The only known cure is a blood marrow or stem cell transplant.

A person with sickle-cell anemia suffers from anemia due to the abnormal shaped red blood cells.  These “sickle” shaped cells get stuck in the small blood vessels and cause blockage.  Blood vessels and body organs cannot get oxygen which leads to health problems like severe pain, organ damage or failure, severe infections, stroke, headache, liver problems, heart problems and more.

To learn more, you can start here: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/sicklecell/index.html

Do you know anyone that suffers from this disease?

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10 Reasons I Love “The Hitman’s Bodyguard”

This movie came out in 2017 but I didn’t see it until this year on cable. I’ve seen it about 10 times and love it. Here are the 10 reasons this movie is my favorite.

  1. Samuel L. Jackson – any movie with Samuel L. is made better by his presence.
  2. Ryan Reynolds – Deadpool in a suit.
  3. The Premise – The thought of a hitman needing a bodyguard is hilarious to me.
  4. The “seat belt” rule – Watch the movie. You’ll get it.
  5. Salma Hayek – Badass
  6. The inside “mole” that you see coming but works anyway.
  7. The road trip and the car chases.
  8. Triple A rated – Seriously, watch the movie. You’ll get it.
  9. The “plethora” use of the word – muthaf**********
  10. Samuel L. “Muthaf***” Jackson

Bonus:  “When life gives you shit, you make kool-aid.” – Life advice.

#mdrayfordwrites