Crimsom Footprints by Shewanda Pugh

Crimson Footprints Blub:

When an insecure, bi-racial woman begins a cloak-and-dagger love affair with a Japanese American man, she is intent on keeping her bigoted family in the dark—albeit with devastating consequences. On the night of her brother’s murder, Deena Hammond stumbles upon Takumi Tanaka, lost and on the wrong end of a .32. After rescuing him from the certain fate driving through the hood in a Porsche will bring, a sweet kind of friendship begins. A balm for her grief. Maybe, Deena likes to think, it happened the day her white mother killed her black father. Or maybe, it was always a part of them, like DNA gone bad. Whatever the case, Deena knows that her family would never approve, hell, never acknowledge her fast-growing love for Takumi. And had he never made love to her that way, in that unraveling, soul-searching sort of way, she could’ve done the same. But love’s a devil that way. So, their game begins. One where they hide what they are from everyone. Anyone. And Tak understands this—for now. After all, Deena’s career hinges on the favor of her mentor and boss, his hard-ass of a father. And the Hammond family is already stretched thin with grief. Yet, each step Deena takes toward family and career brings her closer to an acceptance she’s never had. And away from him.

                                                    

Crimson Footprints

Excerpt

“I wish that I didn’t want my family’s love so bad. I wish I could be one of those people who wore leather jackets and didn’t give a damned.”

Tak shot her a look. “You’d be musty if you wore a leather jacket in this heat.”

Deena grinned. “You know what I mean.”

He shrugged. “Who doesn’t want a decent family, Dee? It’s not much to ask for.”

Tak paused to pluck a seashell from the sand. Chipped and polished by time, it shone under the glint of a fast setting sun. “I don’t know the answers,” he said. “But they seem to be in things like this,” he held up the shell.

She frowned. “I don’t follow.”

He shrugged. “Well think about it. What’s a shell? It’s just a—a hard, protective outer layer.” He hurled it in the ocean. “The same is true with family. They’re an outer layer, a protection from the world. At least that’s what they’re supposed to be.” He paused. “Think about what happens when you screw with an animal that has one of those hard shells. What does he do?”

“He goes into it.”

“Right. He retreats.” He thumbed the shell thoughtfully. “Now imagine if you were to rip the shell off a turtle and expose him. What do you think you’d find?”

Deena cringed. “Something soft and hurting.

“And dead, if not close to it. So, our hypothetical turtle, who’s able to stand our shell transplant, needs another shell, another form of protection. And so do you.” Tak handed the grooved and sand-polished subject to Deena. She looked down at it.

“So, how’ve I been surviving all this time? What’s my shell?”

Tak grinned. “Tell you what. I’ll let you know when I crack it.”

Copyright by Shewanda Pugh ©

Author Shewanda Pugh

Shewanda Pugh is a native of Boston’s inner city, though she now lives in sunny Miami, Florida. She has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Alabama A&M University and a Master’s in Writing from Nova Southeastern University. Fueled from a young age, her passion for crossing societal boundaries like race, class and culture, is the inspiration for both her cluttered bookshelf and her writing. When she’s not busy obsessing over fiction, she can be found traveling, nursing her social networking addiction or enjoying the company of loved ones.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Author.ShewandaPugh

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShewandaP

Follow on Twitter: @ShewandaP

Blog: http://shewandapugh.blogspot.com/

www.shewandapugh.com

Honest Abe...Get To Know The Poet!

Artist Bio:

Abraham Benjamin a.k.a. Honest Abe, born in Brooklyn, NY, is a
writer/poet, and the author of his first book of poetry, "Unlocked
thoughts of a prophet's temple: Humble Beginnings.” (January 2012). 5 years removed from being on the scene he released his debut indie EP album, Brooklyn's Lost Son: Prelude to the Road 2 Redemption" (July 2011).  And has had his work published in college arts magazines.
(Ex. Antheon,Arts/Creative writing magazine at Kingsborough CC, May '09)  A brother, son, cousin, uncle and loyal to the end friend, he  describes himself as a mind-reacher,  whose main goal “is not to write to incite crimes, but to incite minds with the truth in a world & society full of lies and deception.”  His 1st form of expression wasn't poetry, but music.  He has played guitar off/on for the past 15 years.  Poetry took center stage at the end of highschool after which he’s appeared in such places as Bowery Poetry Club, the legendary Nuyorican Poets Cafe, New World Stages in Timeout NY Lounge,449 LA in Harlem,NY and the Arts Garage in Philly.  He’s also been a featured artist at the Time  Square Arts center, Lyrical Revolt IX at La Pregunta Cafe, Bridgeport Innovation center in CT,  at the 2011 Brooklyn Book Festival, various in and out of Tristate venues and has won back to back collegiate slams in the Bowery Poetry club.



1.) Can you tell all the poet fanatics a little about yourself?

Well, I'm a SCorpio, :), I've been writing everything from essays, short stories, songs and as well as poems since bout 9 y/o.   Grew up in a big family, 5 brothers and 1 sister by marriage. Lets see, I'm the youngest of my clan.  I love Strawberries, pepperoni pizza, Roti(Beef, Chicken and curry goat)and Lasagna. Fav. colors are red, black, greeen, blue, khaki and orange.

2.) How long have you been on the poetry scene and where are some places that you have had a chance to perform?

This is my 6th year on the scene.(I started back in 2007) Some places I've performed are the Bowery Poetry club(NYC),
Nuyorican Poets Cafe(NYC) Feat. more than once, The Arts Garage(Philly),Brooklyn College(Brooklyn,NYC),Brooklyn Book fest.,and Bridgeport Innovation center(CT)
 

3.) Can you tell us what a day in the life of a poet is like and what are some challenges you face?

It can be stressful at times. But for the most part if you allow it to be. If I didn't have the heart and dedication I would of left it alone a long time ago. Slow Progress in the early years and..
Tragedy help you put things and life in perspective in ways I didn't consider. But losing fam and some close friends hurt..though made me stronger in the process.
I've went more than one day during a weeks time w/o eating. Lack of money and low paying feat. don't break bills down any easier. One of the pros of being an indie artist is most def. more control.

 4.) Where does your inspiration originate from?

The simple asnswer would be...everything, everywhere and everyone. Mostly its organic and metaphysical in a sense. My friends, family, other artists...
But my mom and God are some of, if not the biggest. And any personal experience I've gone through and overcame the adversity of it.
All those forementioned, keeps my determined and creative spirit alive and going.
 

5.) At what age did you first pick up the pen?

It was around the age of 9/10. Of course a lot of my reading help in my writing getting stronger as time passed.

6.) Who are some writers that you enjoy reading?

The ones I grew up on like Langston Hughes, MArcus Garvey, DuBoise, Edgar Allen Poe, Maya Angelou,
to Gil Scot-Heron, Tennessee Williams, Yeats, Tongo-Eisen, Justinah McFadden, Tshaka Campbell, Taalam Acey, Knickie D.,Melanie "YeYo" Carter, Ainsley Burrows to name a few.

7.) What are some upcoming projects you have coming up?

 There are two books and two CD's in the works at the moment. I'll reveal the titles and release dates at a later time. A few behind the scenes projects.
And my first poetic music video. Of which piece of mine and when...TBA and TBD. 

8.) Describe some of your work to us?

Unauthodox. But very relatable despite the genre. From love, erotica, politics, socially, economically, death, persona pieces...etc. I pull no punches.  And if its a topic I'm "poppin' my cherry" on...I love a challenge and will definitely GO IN on. You could consider it a Honesty with no filter style.

 9.) Do you have any books out? Or, any poetry on cd?

Yes. I have a book and a CD out. The Book is called, Unlocked Thoughts of a Prophet's Temple: HUmble Beginnings.  Which is kinda autobigraphical. With a narrative passage and select collection of Poems.   Based off my upbringing and starting years performing. My Debut CD, Brooklyn's Lost Son:Prelude to the Road 2 Redemption...is also autobiographic in a sense bout my bouts with self doubt and hardships in life and poetry up to this point. Where my road 2 redemption really begins in discovering more and being on track fulfilling my purpose.
 

10.) What do you consider to be your main successes so far?

 One of the biggest successes of mine so far would have to be....being alive at the age of 28. Most that come from where I do in Brooklyn, are lucky to see 25.
Otherwise, performing live at the Brooklyn Book festival last year(2011) and have my parents there to see it.
 

11.) Do you have any personal philosophies?
 One would be, no matter how younger or older someone is in reference to me, I still feel I can learn something from them. For the simple fact, I don't know everything or perceive to.
Another is, life ain't a bell of roses. Which I adopted from my mom and learned at an early age. Whats done in the dark will come to the light.
Underestimation by others can bring out the best in you. And I don't do something productive, and/or affect someones life in a positive way in a 24hr period every day...
I feel like I've waste a day of existence here on earth.

12.) What advice would you offer to someone hoping to take up a similar interest to yourself?

You have to have will, determination and faith. As well as mental stamina most times or you will be broken easily. And don't give into the myth of "writers block". if you start writing something the feel stuck...let it marinate and come back to it.
Another thing of importance, read...a lot. Learn the business side of this artistic discipline early to not get taken advantage of. Follow the pros and learn from the cons of your predecessors. And surround yourself with a positive, supportive circle.
 

 13.) Where can poet fan’s catch you performing doing the week and weekend’s?



 I'm usually at some local Brooklyn open mics and others that go on weekly and monthly. Like Brooklyn Nights at Nicholas 2nd saturdays, downtown BK, 570 Fulton st. and Inspired Word Every wed. at 116 McDougal st. in Manhattan. and Street Poets Den 3rd Fridays in Bedstuy Brooklyn.

13 Years

 

I lost count how many times

I've contemplated suicide since 13 y/o.

And just thinking about it

gives me the shakes more than liquor,

used to clean this open wound of nightmares in my head;

As a result, there were friendships torn and

these images of scorned graves of family members

crucified the retinas of my soul like Jesus

with black faces in white hoods.

K-K-K on their backs in Blood red;

White faces in black hoods with K-K-K on their backs in Crypt blue.

Racial stew boiled with a recipe for disaster.

Spending years mastering de baiting dreams

so death could see me Cuming;

and just like in bedrooms,

premature ejaculating is unsatisfactory.

Dining at Father Time's table has always been

a game of Russian roulette for me,

but how many cases of this scenario

have you seen...?

Since life is the disease of nature

we're all suffering from,

its not surprising killing sprees end with

the gun man as his last victim.

Like if he gone die why not take 20-40 souls with him.

Or with women who blindly date abusers,

playing ground beef with their faces

and his fists were the meat tenderizers;

Sure Chris, it "really" was a lapse of rage.

Yes. Most domestic violence doesn’t end with victim’s suicide to be free.

Though most females I know would be like,

"I'd shoot the motherfucker if he ever laid his hands on me!"

thing is you never truly know

what kind of demons bunk in silent chamber minds.

Silent screams line by line,

Silent smiles hide killer’s future crimes.

The number 13 for many has been associated with bad luck.

But I know of a poet, who goes by the name 13,

and every word he spits lifts the masses souls up.

So fuck a curse.

Like my man Essence said,

"The cost of dying is going up!"

As a writer if I run out of words worth

then my pens worth is worthless

I'm here today.

But tomorrow isn’t promised to me or you.

This Haunting numeral comes back to me again.

Seems like these words were 13 years in the making,

26 now, so this poem from the pen is out on probation.

After patiently waiting for some paper to explode on,

you can judge if you want, but like snitches in the hood,

with this page my ball point will just roll on;

Thinking this lyrical liquor won't hit ya brains liver

then your ass is so wrong.

No, this isn’t no self pity poem.

It’s an I wrote this for those who going through it with me poem.

Stones from these hands have never been thrown hastily

below the waist of me are the only stones I hold dear

Sometimes it seems like no matter how loud my voice does elevate

the pressure weights of common man have it feeling irrelevant

like sex to someone who's celibate and focused.

So I wonder how my mother feels bout me having suicidal thoughts, again.

Only this time Scratching cold blue blood ink into a page instead of her apt. walls,

signs of my own internal down fall b4 standing

as a man and

Arch goes my back while fielding out life

just manning UP so she can be proud of her lost son.

Managing life like Abraham for God when he sacrificed his son for the long run

Know that when I'm done and the last lines from these idle hands are written

And every writer that follows vision isn't too frost bitten to see,

feel and hear me will realize,

The open wounds of nightmare realities inside

was spoken to set both of us free.

“Honest Abe” Abraham Benjamin [© 2009]

To contact Abraham Benjamin about having him featured as poet at your open-mic (Booklinghonestabe@gmail.com)


Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dtruthspeaks

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/t_izhonestabe

Artist site: http://www.reverbnation.com/dtruthspeaks (buy and download my album in the store on here)

TO purchase my book: http://www.twopensandlint.com/honestabe

Introducing Author Charae Lewis

Interview With Charae Lewis Author of Mil-Town's Finest

1.)  Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Charae Lewis and I’m from Milwaukee, WI. I enjoy shopping, reading and Makeup. My writing journey started in January of 2011.

2.) Where did the concept for “Mil-Town’s Finest” come from?

I was actually inspired by the TV show The First 48. Instead of the situation being between two men I decided to create it with two women. I observed how people were so quick to turn on their friends and family so I took that inspiration and penned Mil-Towns Finest.

3.) In the story, Natalya had a hard time letting go and forgiving, Do you know anyone similar to Natalya who may have this same problem or was there a different meaning behind her not being able to forgive other’s?

I know a lot of people who have a hard time letting go of the past and forgiving others. I wanted readers to know that forgiving someone is much bigger than you. It’s about regaining power over your life and moving on.

4.) So you have to let the reader’s know, were any of the characters in, “Mil-Town’s Finest”, real?

Most of the characters were just a figment of my imagination but I did pull certain characteristics from people that I know. There are some characters that do remind of certain individuals that I’ve encountered but for the most part they’re fictional.

5.) Reading Mil-Town’s Finest was an excellent enjoyment and took me out my comfort zone as well. But, where did the unique and creative title come from?

Mil-Town is actually the nickname of my hometown which is Milwaukee, WI. I just wanted to show my city a little bit of love so I chose Mil-Town’s Finest as the title.

6.) When did your passion for writing come about?
I’ve always been an avid reader so I was actually inspired by other authors to start my writing career. When I first started, it was a bit of a struggle because I despised English in high school but after getting the hang of it, I loved it.

7.) Do you have a specific writing style when you write your novels?

I usually start off with a character’s name then start my novel. I never use an outline and I never know how the book will end. I just write until I’m done with the story.

8.) Is there anything you find particularly challenging about your writing?
Sometimes trying not to repeat a story I’ve already written can be a challenge. I hate to sound redundant.

9.)  Could you let the reader’s and fan’s know what’s next for you and how to stay updated?

Hopefully more novels will be in the near future. If anyone wishes to contact me my email address is charaelewis@yahoo.com or www.facebook.com/public/Charae-Lewis

Follow Charae on twitter https://twitter.com/charae_lewis

Book Descripion

Natalya has learned that life can throw many curve balls. Since her mother never cared for her, she was forced to turn her hustle mode on, learning to become a woman at an early age. Working for Milwaukee's Kingpin Pooh wasn't a dream for Natalya, but it paid well; however, after a fateful encounter with the law - coupled with the betrayal of those closest to her - she's forced to face the reality that she could spend years behind bars...

Nissa is racked with guilt from having to choose between her freedom and her best friend, Natalya, whom she never meant to put in such a horrible situation. As if things couldn t get worse, Nissa soon falls for someone who's forbidden, someone that she feels is her true love - but she's soon faced with the grim realization that looks can often be deceiving...

After doing a one-year bid, Natalya has a new lease on life, determined to pursue her calling as a fashion designer. While getting her life together, she runs into her childhood crush, J'ron, who just happens to be the brother of her nemesis, Nissa. As Natalya's bond with J'ron deepens - will it be strong enough to endure the deadly of vengeance...?

Show More

Show Less

Purchase Mil-Town's Finest Amazon.com for kindle, nook, apple, and BN. Mil-Town is also available for paperback pre-order which will be available August 28,2012

Bio

Charae Lewis was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Reading has always been one of her favorite hobbies, and she was eventually inspired by other authors to write her own story - ultimately challenging herself to write a book. Charae loves writing because it simply takes her to another world where she can design the rules. She also writes for the benefit of young people going through the same types of situations that she pens. Ready to take the literary industry by storm, Charae is currently working on her fifth novel, and one day she aims to grace the NY Times Best Seller List.

Getting to know PurePoetess Lucille Muetchel

Getting to know this International Poet!

My name is Lucille Muetchel, I am a writer with a focus on poetry. I was born and raised in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. I love my country and write of it often. I have a tumblr based around my life and poetry. I pride myself on living an expressive lifestyle. Feelings and vibes always influence me. I have great instincts and that has led me through a life full of surprises and lessons that make me who I am today. I am an avid soul and jazz music listener. My favorite poets are Pablo Neruda and Alaysia Harris, my favorite writers are Toni Morisson and Nicholas Sparks, and my favorite musical artists are Musiq Soulchild and Jill Scott. I live my life with zest fervor because "a well-behaved woman rarely makes history" and dammit I want to leave my mark on the world.

Follow this young and talented lady on tumblr               http://purepoetess.tumblr.com           

Twitter: @sweethaitian1

Interview With Brittany Danei

The Love Block

“Catty Girls & The Man Behind The Picture”

Jana Pauldo: Thank you for taking the time to conduct this interview with me because a lot of females wouldn’t have done it… I read up on some of the things going on with you relationship wise and thought it would be an interesting topic to do an interview about but first tell us a little about yourself and the situation.

Brittany: My name is Brittany born and raised in Atlanta. I am 23 years old and a senior at Kennesaw State University. My major of study is Mass Communications. And, I am proud to say that I am one out of a few females around my age that don’t have any children out of wedlock.

Jana Pauldo: You and me both and it’s not to many left. So, let’s talk. How long was the relationship with your ex and what caused the two of you to split?

Brittany: My ex and I were together for six years. We broke up due to him cheating.

Jana Pauldo: Did you think the both of you (ex) splitting and still communicating is the reason behind the drama?

Brittany: Yes and no we talked for a few months after we split and I felt like he was playing both fields telling me he loved me and not the new girl and I really didnt like that he was doing that but at the same time I think the girl would have started drama anyways because when they started talking the ex and I were still in a relationship and she knew about it so her insecurities are a cause for the drama.

Jana Pauldo: From what I have read, these girls are verbally and physically threatening you and conducting themselves in a matter that young woman shouldn’t. Could you explain how this came about and what exactly is it they are doing to you?

Brittany: This came about when the current girlfriend became aware of the relationship with me and the ex. She verbally harasses me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. She has been calling and texting my phone pretending to be my ex. She has called and text my phone cursing at me because she feels I want him back. We have had one face to face altercation in public that could have gotten physical.

Jana Pauldo: Damn she got issues!

Brittany: She has also had friends and family members to tag me in pics of her and my ex along with verbally harassing me.

Jana Pauldo: Were you and you’re ex high school sweethearts?

Brittany: Yes we began dating our junior year of high school.

Jana Pauldo: Does your ex know about how these girls are conducting themselves? If so, what has he said?

Brittany: Yes he knows and he always says he's going to handle it but nothing happens and lately he has been helping her to harass me.

Jana Pauldo: If anything, what have you learned about this relationship that you will take with you in your future and as a lesson learned?

Brittany: I learned that just because you have been with a person for a very long time doesnt mean that you know them and that they have your best interest at heart. I know that I can never let my guard fully down ever again.

Jana Pauldo: What are your close friends saying to you?

Brittany: My friends tell me that my ex is showing signs that he still cares for me but he is acting out because he is upset at me for something but he does not know how to have a conversation with me like an adult. They also say that his new relationship can’t be to fulfilling for the both of them since the girlfriend is so worried about me. They have to remind me not to react in an immature manner by stooping down to their level.

Jana Pauldo: Any advice you want to give to females about handling situations like these? I must also commend you because you are handling it in a mature way.

Brittany: Well thank you, but it has not been easy to keep my cool in this situation and I have had my moments where I didn’t respond in the best way. I would tell any female in this situation or something similar to not give anyone the satisfaction of taking your happiness away from you, you don’t always have to fight fire with fire be the bigger person and ignore it.

Jana Pauldo: How has this relationship affected you with moving on with your life?

Brittany: To be honest, I feel like I’m not ready for another relationship right now I am emotionally drained and I don’t want my spouse to have to deal with my drama from a past relationship.

Jana Pauldo: I also read where you and your ex are still on communicating terms is that as far as it has gone or is it still also how it was when you both were together?

Brittany: We are not really on communicating terms right now we can’t get along with each other to have civilized conversations because his girlfriend has lied to him so many times telling him that I have said and did so many things to him that have never been said or done. When we talk now it’s an argument which is completely different from how it was when we were together; we never argued sure we had disagreements but we talked them out without arguing.

Jana Pauldo: Do you care that he has a new girlfriend? Has he expressed that he still has feelings for you?

Brittany: Absolutely not! As long as he is happy, I am happy. I wish him nothing but the best. He has told me a few months ago while we were on good terms that he couldn’t love the new girl because he was still in love with me.

Jana Pauldo: Tell the reader’s and fans how to keep in contact with you.

Brittany: Contact me by email at bgrayer1989@gmail.com, Facebook: Brittany Danei', and twitter:@pure_ecstasy7



Interview With College Student Joshua Pauldo

Joshua Pauldo is a 21 year old college student attending Georgia Piedmont Technical College in Clarkson, Georgia. Everything hasn’t always been the best for Mr. Pauldo who overcame many obstacles of being locked up and because he had no real support team he stopped caring about his education and found himself in the legal system a couple of times. But, Joshua says now he is looking passed all that and remaining focus on his education and doing better to grow into the man he know he will one day be.

1.      Tell the reader’s about yourself.

I’m a good person and I don’t bother anyone and I have made my mistakes in the past but I have learned from them and I know if I have learned from these many mistakes I don’t have to go down that path anymore.

2.      What was it like growing up in your household and did that have an impact on some of the decisions you made?

Growing up in my household was alright. It had it’s many sad moments and happy moments but everyone got through it. I can say from the time I was a baby until I turn 13 that was when I felt my family was in place. After that, it kind of spurred out of control.

3.      How was it for you attending school and has a high school diploma helped you or do you feel it is just a piece of paper? School was easy. I think they teach the same things over and over again. But, school I had many challenges but I have always been smart and carried myself that way. I do feel like school can be sometimes over rated but no matter what an education can take you very far.

4.      Where do you see yourself in the future as a young man?

 I see myself growing and maturing and becoming that person I know I can be.

5.      When you are not going to college, what do you like to do in your spare time? Watching television,  go to sporting events, and I recently just started reading books.

6.      Can you share what book you are reading now? I just finished, “The Cartel 3 Final Chapter” by Ashley & Jaquavis.

7.      What is your favorite sports team? The Lakers

8.      Has attending college been stressful for you? If so, how do you manage? Yes. I just take it one day at a time.

9.      Anything you would like to share with the fans? Never worry about your mistakes and if you are caught up in the system or doing something that you know is going to have a negative outcome just think about it before you make that decision that you will have to live with for the rest of your life.

Follow this college student at www.twitter.com/wherespauldo

 



About This Blog

My name is Jana Nicole Pauldo and I am a writer and this is my first blog post. I also have a website where you can check out my bio and other information at www.jananicole.weebly.com I have been writing since third grade and on this blog I will be helping other people to get exposure. I will also be talking about things going on in the media and my feelings about it. Feel free to email me anytime if you have any questions and want to conduct an interview. Remember, I only conduct interviews Monday-Saturday from the hours of 10a.m.-8p.m. Please send your bio and a pic to my email at janapauldo@aol.com and I will send you the questions to answer which need to be back to me by the next day.
Peace & Love,
 The Princess of Literature-Jana Nicole Pauldo