INTERVIEW . . .
How would you describe Niambi Brown Davis?
I could be deluding myself, but I would say loyal, low-key, but definitely fun-loving.
:)
When did the writing bug snip you (or was it a
snarling bite)?
It was a giant, dive-bombing mosquito! After the first lesson in an online writing course, the writing bug took over. And now it is such a part of me that sometimes I wish I had been stricken earlier (lol). But I remind myself that everything happens in its own good time. And this is a very good time. My debut novel has been published and it has gotten great reviews.
From your bio, I noticed that you have an extensive writing history. Tell us a little about your columns, particularly your blog, Romance & Rhythms Around the World?
The blog title came from my love of travel, music and the genre in which I chose to write. Each of my stories will have elements of all three - settings on a foreign shore, good music and romance. Eventually my blog will include posts and pictures of my own travels, some of which have come from my articles in Travel and Enjoy (out of print) and Travel Lady magazine.
Your debut novel, From Dawn to Dusk, sounds very sexy. Tell us about it?
From Dusk to Dawn is the story of two people who are opposites in every way - in age, in faith and in plans for their future. Despite their explosive beginning, they fall into a love that is deeper than either of them imagined. That love is put to the test many times. When they are faced with the greatest challenge to their union, they have to decide how far they are willing to go or how much they are willing to sacrifice for love. For one of them love means letting go. For the other it means holding on, against all odds..
The Sistahs of the SFBC are all girly girls who love to pamper themselves. You have to tell us about Sand & Silk / Soleful Strut!.
Sand and Silk/Soleful Strut is my beauty products business. I formulated each of the products myself and make them at home in my kitchen. The oils, butters and nutrients are chosen because of their benefits to the skin. Because I love palm trees, white sand, and blue water, they all have a tropical theme. I love my products - the way they feel and smell. Fortunately, so do my customers. If you click on
www.sandandsilk.com,
you will see a couple of testimonials. In addition, I have created another line called Maracas Bay. Those products are tied to the book. When I handed them out at Romance Slam Jam they were a big hit, so they will be a permanent part of the business..
Who are your favorite authors? Are there any you'd love to work with?.
I have favorite authors for different genres - in romance, I would include Donna Hill, Dee Savoy, Evelyn Palfrey and Beverly Jenkins. Tananarive Due, Brandon Massey and LA Banks for the supernatural. And I own all of Pearl Cleage's books. As far a working with authors, it is much more interesting to to see who would want to work with me :).
What advice can you give aspiring authors?
Read. Use every opportunity to learn. Be patient, open to constructive criticism and persevere. If you are offered good opportunities, take them; they are often stepping stones to something greater.
The SistahFriend Book Club also embraces women entrepreneurs. What advice do you give women who desire to start their own business?
A business plan is essential, even if you are not using it to ask for financing. It is a roadmap to where you want to go and how to get there. Networking is essential; you cannot get the word out stuck in your house or behind your computer. Join forces with a complimentary business; it is good for you both.
What impact do you believe book clubs have in the world of literature? Have you ever been a member of a book club?
Book clubs are invaluable. They are both the drum and the footsoldiers of the literary community, especially the black literary community. They spread the word and give authors a platform and invaluable support, both through online chats and invitations to events they sponsor. As an avid reader, I understand that urge to come together in the name of the written word. RAWSISTAZ and APOOO are the clubs that brought me to and kept me in the literary world.
What can your readers expect from you in the future?
Next time Romance and Rhythms will take readers around the world in a historical and a romantic suspense..
Where can readers purchase your books?
From Dusk to Dawn can be purchased through www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com and www.parker-publishing.com.
Tell us something interesting about yourself that you wouldn’t normally expose when first meeting someone (we call this the sistah-confession to help break the ice between newbies and vet-sistahs :)
I have a fear of driving. I have grown children, but I have never had a driver's license or driven a car. Even when the car is parked, I am nervous if I sit in the driver's seat
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