New Release Alert – Confessions

Confessions-Full-Cover-Final

Available today in paperback is “Confessions: Secrets & Lies Revealed“. The ebook will be available on July 7th. You can get your copy here.

What’s it about?

Secrets have a way of festering inside of us. Sometimes we release them, sometimes they find their way out. Most of the time, they come with a whole set of problems.

In this tantalizing compilation of stories, fifteen talented writers explore what happens when secrets and lies are revealed.

What’s my story about?

My contribution is entitled, Lie to Me. Andre Harris has found the path to a successful relationship. He doesn’t need to know the truth. When evidence is presented that he can no longer ignore, will he accept more lies or face the truth?

Why you should read it?

This anthology has something for everyone. And who doesn’t love a juicy secret? Take a journey into the lives of these characters and find out what happens when secrets and lies are revealed.

Available everywhere books are sold!!

And The Winner Is…

Thank you to everyone who entered my $25 Amazon gift card giveaway. There were over 1,400 entries. The winning number was chosen using Random Number generator.

And the winner is Courtney Kinder (cb***@yahoo.com).

Please email me at mdrayford@gmail.com to claim your prize.

Congratulations, Courtney!

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.

 

 

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.

 

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

Book Photoshoot

Check out the beautiful pictures taken by Jason Frost of @rootbeerphoto