[BOOK REVIEW] The Catch Book of Fools! shines a light on what to avoid and who we are to be

 No one wants to be a fool, right? Yet it can be said we either run into people with foolish behavior and tendencies or we find ourselves displaying them from time to time. With that in mind, Dr. Velma Bagby's book THE CATCH: Book of Fools! is so timely.

Whether you have read her fiction series The Catch or not, this book shares 80 scriptural examples of fools and/or foolish behavior that we do well to avoid. This can be in our personal and professional relationships or even our dealings with ourselves. 

Thankfully we don't have to wonder the kind of behavior that can be dangerous and keep us from our goals in life. The Bible lays it out for us. All we have to do is read, study and take heed. I love the layout of the book, giving us the scriptures and then the opportunity to ask the questions that need to be asked. Once we come to an answer it's about making notes and the personal reflection, giving us the opportunity to make the changes needed. 

Great for your personal use or as a family, THE CATCH: Book of Fools! shines a light on what to avoid and who we are to be. It's then up to US to take action. 

Get your copy of THE CATCH: Book of Fools! on Amazon. 

[BOOK REVIEW] The Forgiveness Game by Norma McLauchlin

 

Sometimes we need a little fiction to remind us of the important truths in our life. THE FORGIVENESS GAME by Norma McLauchlin is that kind of book. 

Through the lens of the character Trish readers are able to see what some are willing to endure in the name of peace and familiarity, only to be reminded of the importance of loving and valuing yourself. 

THE FORGIVENESS GAME shows how men (and some women) can use words and a façade to get what they want and expect others to deal with it---counting on the object of their abuse not to wake up and realize their value and worth. The book also shows, however, when the chips are down who is really there for you. 

The kind of read that draws you in to the story and leaves you with lessons and your own epiphanies, THE FORGIVENESS GAMES shows the power of forgiveness and the importance of peace. 

Get your copy of THE FORGIVENESS GAME on Amazon. 

[To You, From Me] Why NOW is the ONLY Time that Matters

It's hard to believe we are half-way through the year that is 2024. Like you, so much has happened both personally and professionally, and I am excited about what has helped me get here. But it's not the end for me or for you.

I know life gets hard at times. This issue of Conversations Magazine has been in the works for over a year, and though there was discussion about moving on from it I knew the profiles here would be an encouragement for you to do one thing: KEEP GOING.

So many times we look at the past and think things can't get any better. I am here to tell you that is just not true. You have the opportunity to take advantage of NOW, making the most of it. Those profiled in this Visionary Issue of Conversations Magazine have been able to do just that, and all are benefiting from doing so. Not only that, they are able to remind us all of what is possible. I am inspired by Iris, Robert, Tina and Ruby, and I think their profiles will do much to inspire you, too. 

Since the last issue of Conversations Magazine was in your hands or on your device I have gone through my own changes, thankfully most have been for the better. I have traveled across the country, interviewed people from around the world--but for me the main thing is I have continued to show myself and others what is possible when you don't let fear and doubt stop you. 

I hope this issue reminds you of the importance of NOW and remember that this moment in front of you is the only time that matters. You can't do anything about yesterday. You can't control the future. You can only embrace what is in your power in this moment. May you take full advantage of it, and in the process encourage others to do the same. 

Happy Reading! 

Cyrus Webb, Editor-In-Chief

Conversations Magazine/ Mississippi Success Magazine/Books You Need to Read Magazine

[EXCERPT] Minding Your Business, Chapters 1-4 (Tips on Walking the Talk in Business)

Ready for some tips on walking the talk in your business? Enjoy this excerpt from MINDING YOUR BUSINESS by Cyrus Webb.
 

1. Know Yourself

When it comes to minding your business, one of the biggest lessons I have learned is that I have to know myself.

For some reading this it might seem obvious, but the truth is that we live in a time where what is a pretense and manufactured seems to be the norm and what’s accepted. Some will tell you to fake it until you make it. Others will try to define who you are.

What I have come to realize is that if we’re truly going to build something long-lasting that can make an impact, it must be built on authenticity. Now, the other side of that is that it also means it might take longer than you would like. The important thing, however, is that you don’t lose yourself along the way. 

I have the privilege of working with three amazing changemakers: Dr. Teresa A. Smith (aka Dr. TAS), Chanelle Coleman Wesley and C. C. Fann. Each is using her platform to not only talk about the importance of authenticity but show by example why you have to know yourself when it comes to connecting with others and making an impact. 

Was it always easy for them? Not at all! In fact, they all through their work share the journey of not only knowing they were enough but trusting that they had something to share that others could benefit from. The result of them doing so, however, has been them building a platform that includes not just books but speaking and pouring into others online and offline. 

This key will work for you in ways you might not even imagine if only you give it a chance. By knowing yourself and choosing to lead with your own authentic self, that will set you apart from others in your industry, and make sure that people don’t forget you. 

You will make an impact, and in the world of business and brand-building that is the name of the game for all of us. 

2. Know Your Why

When I began really developing my brand in 2003 it was due to my realizing what my WHY was. I can say 21 years later, that WHY has stayed the same. I have expanded on the vision, but the core of what I wanted to do has remained the same.

That just shows the importance of your WHY. It’s not enough to say you want to start a business or make a lot of money or buy this or that. This key is all about realizing that what you are doing has to be based on something REAL. For me it was giving a platform to those who didn’t have their voices heard, whether it was individuals in the artistic community, doing community work or in business. 

The same is true for another client and friend named Tina Siemens. Today she is an award-winning author of two books, SEMINOLE (Some People Never Give Up) and The Little Sandals That Could), but the path to her getting there has been through connecting with her audience through history and the importance of knowing that your story matters. 

It’s been great watching her go from appreciating the sacrifices and achievements of her own family to imparting that to others so they will realize the value they also have in the world. 

Using history and storytelling Tina runs The West Texas Living Heritage Museum and is stepping outside her comfort zone showing up in virtual and in-person events, highlighting the value we all bring to the world. 

For you it might be to solve a problem that you see around you or to offer something that you know others will need and benefit from. This is something that may take you some time to determine, but doing so is worth it because it will also keep you moving forward. 

Now, as I said, my vision and WHY have expanded. The same will probably be true for you. The important thing is to stay focused and know that if you put in the effort, great things can happen.

3. Know Your Audience.

This key is going to be challenging for some, but once you have determined your why it is the most essential.

One of the problems that I see is that individuals try to be all things to all people. Though it seems like a good idea, it’s not something that is sustainable when  it comes to building your business and establishing your brand. 

We must know who we serve and who is going to resonate with what we have to offer. If we don’t take this important step we will be meandering around blindly, jumping from thing to thing trying to find something that sticks. 

Two great examples of individuals who have learned who they serve and stay focused on that are Robert Helm, the creator of the AllSports Headgear and Dr. Velma Bagby, the bestselling author of The Catch Series. 

For Robert the idea for AllSports came from a need that he saw, first with athletes to wipe the sweat from their face as well as give them a way to keep themselves cool. He has in the process tailored the brand so it can fit individuals of all ages and walks of life, making it fashionable, functional and something that stands out. 

The same can be said about Dr. Velma. Her Catch Series was different from her previous books, and she knew exactly the audience she wanted to reach with them. Doing her research, having conversations with her family and women that she met allowed her to craft books that speak to the heart and opened up dialogue about relationships and marriage: exactly what she wanted to achieve. 

Think about what you have to offer and then think about who needs it. As I mentioned, for me it was giving a platform to those without a voice. That means I was not at the time going after those with recognizable names and businesses. If I had I would not only have been going against my why, I would have also been shutting the door on those I hoped to serve.

Again, it might seem like a great idea to go wide from the very beginning, but if we want to be effective, we will identify those we know need what we have to offer and give them our attention. 

4. Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses

No one likes to admit there are things they can’t do, but I have found that recognizing your strengths and your weaknesses is key.

When it comes to your business you need to think of this objectively, because you will need to know the areas where you shine and where you might need help. All of us at some point WILL need help in one area or another of what we do. 

Knowing where you shine will allow you to focus your attention where it matters and bring help for the areas that might be a challenge. The other thing to think about with this key is that time also plays a role. There are things I know how to do in my business, but I CHOOSE to delegate or hire for it because it might not be the best use of my time. 

Another way to think of your weaknesses is that this is also an opportunity for you to work on becoming better. NONE of us can do everything well all the time. Be aware of where there is an area that needs some work (or maybe ask a trusted source), and then look for way to make yourself stronger.

Get MINDING YOUR BUSINESS on Amazon.  

[FOOD] Southern Banana Pudding by Dr. Teresa A. Smith, Dr. TAS

 

Southern Banana Pudding

by Dr. Teresa A. Smith, Dr. TAS

Ingredients

2 bananas, sliced (I only had 2 bananas, 4 bananas would have been better)

1 pack of JELL-O Banana Cream Sugar Free & Fat Free Instant Pudding

1 pack of JELL-O Cheesecake Sugar Free & Fat Free Instant Pudding

2 scoops of vanilla custard protein powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

2 cups Stevia in the raw or to taste

¼ cup vanilla flavoring

½ cup Bailey Irish Cream 2 cups of cold Fairlife^® Milk

¾ cup of cold water 2 cups of animal crackers or cookie of choice 2 cups of protein probiotic cookies or cookie of choice

¼ cup of pecans

¼ cup of walnuts

 

Preparation

Mix pudding, protein powder, Stevia, cinnamon, milk, water, flavoring, and Irish Cream in a large mixing bowl until it thickens. Then layer cookies, bananas, walnuts, cookies, bananas, and pecans in a glass casserole dish. 

Continue layering until all ingredients are used. Pour the pudding mixture over the layers after making a well in the pudding. This will ensure the pudding gets to the bottom of the dish. If you have leftover nuts, sprinkle them on the banana pudding. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.

[FOOD] Cheese Turkey Meatloaf by Dr. Teresa A. Smith, Dr. TAS

 

Cheesy Turkey Meatloaf

by Dr. Teresa A. Smith, Dr. TAS

Ingredients

1 pound ground turkey

1 pound sausage

Tricolor peppers chopped (1 red, 1 green, 1 orange)

1 small onion chopped

½ teaspoon basil

½ teaspoon parsley

½ teaspoon oregano

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Dash of cinnamon for marinara sauce

¼ cup egg whites or 3 egg whites

1 8 oz. can of tomato sauce with oregano and basil + 1/3 cup of water poured into the can

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 pack Stevia in the raw

Homemade marinara sauce

¼ cup Italian bread crumbs

¼ cup milk

1/3 cup feta cheese

1 cup Italian cheese blend

1 teaspoon Better Than Bouillon Roasted Chicken Base

¾-1 cup hot water

Preparation

For the Marinara Sauce: Combine the remaining tomato sauce, Stevia, and a dash of cinnamon.

For the Meatloaf: Soak Italian bread crumbs in the milk. Sauté the peppers and onions in the chicken base and let cool. Add peppers and onions, spices, Worcestershire sauce, 1 cup of tomato sauce, Italian bread crumbs, egg whites, and cheeses to the turkey and sausage in a large mixing bowl. Don’t over-mix the meat mixture. Spoon it into a baking pan.

 Spoon marinara sauce on the meat mixture. Bake at 400 degrees in a preheated oven for 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and spoon the remaining marinara sauce on the meatloaf, then add the Italian cheese blend to the top of the meatloaf. Place back in the oven on broil until the cheese is melted.

[AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT] Angel Davis, author of SOMETHING LIKE HOME

 

by Cyrus Webb 

There is nothing like seeing someone's dream come true. 

When Angel Davis first told me about her desire to write a book, I was excited to embark on the journey with her. What we were able to create is inspired by her own life and experiences but is something that can be related to by women (and even some men) no matter where they might live. 

I am so proud of Angel, and this is only the beginning of her writing success. 

Angel, thanks for allowing Conversations to be your first interview about your book SOMETHING LIKE HOME. How does it feel to have your first book published and available for the world to read?

First of all thank you Cyrus for having me and for your help with the book. I am a very private person, so I am still trying to process it all.  I normally lay low in the background. Being in the forefront is new to me, but I am embracing the challenge. 

I totally understand that. When did you realize that writing was something you were interested in?

Reading and writing have always been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. However, I did not start thinking about being an author until I was in my teens.

Who were some of the authors you have enjoyed reading?

I enjoy Treasure Blue, ReShonda Tate, Tyler Perry, Terry Mc Million, Toni Morrison and Maya Angelou,

Tell our readers about your first book SOMETHING LIKE HOME.

Something Like Home is about Angel, a girl who grew up fast, loved hard and was looking for a semblance of normalcy and love. What she found was pain, betrayal and hopelessness. Can she get back to a place she can call her own? That is what readers will discover as they read the book. 

You have already started hearing from readers. What has it been like to see their response to the book?

It feels great. It also proved a point that I have been making.  This is a great book. I am not just saying that because I wrote it. It is a great read according to the feedback I have received from my readers.

 What advice do you have for aspiring writers out there when it comes to pursuing their goals and dreams?

No matter what it is that you want to achieve in life, just do it. Age ain’t nothing but a number. I believe in you, and I am rooting for you.

Congrats again, Angel. How can our audience stay connected with you?

Thank you again for the opportunity. My email is angeldavis15@aol.com. I am on Instagram at @angeleyez_davis and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/angeleyez4u2c

VISIONARY Ruby C. Wight, author of RESILIENT HEART

 by Cyrus Webb

If you're looking for proof of what you can do when you dream big and don't give up on yourself, look no further than Ruby C. Wight. She was introduced to me by another powerhouse individual Dawn Marie Westmoreland, and her book RESILIENT HEART quickly became a favorite of mine after reading it. 

Life has changed quite a bit for Ruby since the book's release. She has traveled the world, gotten married and continues to show us through the ups and downs what it means to be resilient and a vision. 

Ruby, so glad we get to share a bit of your story with our readers.What has it been like for you to see the response to your book RESILIENT HEART?

It has been fantastic. When people said the book empowered and inspired them and one reader said it saved her life, I simply couldn't contain the joy and the feeling of having accomplished something that served the purpose for which it was intended.

You were so open and honest about your highs and lows. What helped you to be so transparent and vulnerable? 

To be authentic, genuine, and highly effective teacher, you must be transparent and vulnerable.

One thing that is clear about you, Ruby, is your love for adventure. Where does that come from? Life is an adventure. We come into this world seemingly hypnotized by the nature of duality. The only way to figure out and know the truth is to be curious, to investigate, to explore and ask all the big questions in life: “WHO AM I? WHY AM I HERE?

You keep pushing yourself it seems daily. What keeps you inspired, even when challenges come? The knowing that I am not just the body, not the mind, but the Soul, made in the perfect image and likeness of God is not enough. I must prove it to myself that I AM - able to do things when it is seemingly impossible to achieve and accomplish beyond the ordinary. To call the unseen into the seen world using the “Spiritual Laws,” is fulfilling.

RESILIENT HEART also shares your journey of faith. What role would you say your faith has had in getting you to where you are now? 
Faith is everything to me. When the going gets rough, it is very easy to give up without FAITH. 

Has it been easy for you to see yourself as a role model to others?
Yes. All I must do is be myself. 

What advice would you give our audience about the importance of going forward in life even when things are tough?
If you want to BE the person you desire, HAVE the things you ever dreamed of, and DO the many things in your bucket list, the only direction you have is to move forward. Be done with self-pity; it doesn’t speak of your Soul. Do not linger in depression. It is the playground of Satan. Lastly, never entertain Self-doubt – it is a poison in your mind. Have faith and trust that the Universe always has your back. 

What should we be on the lookout for from you next?
I’m working on my second book that reveals the secrets to the Universe because of my 30 years study in the world of Metaphysics, exploration, experimentation, and implementation. 

Thanks, Ruby, for being YOU. RESILIENT HEART is currently available on Amazon. 

Conversations' 25 Visionaries Changing the World

 

Meriam-Webster Dictionary defines Visionary in part as "having or marked by foresight and imagination". Conversations is pleased to recognize 25 individuals who are using that foresight and imagination to impact the lives of people all over the world. 

25 Visionaries Changing the World

(Listed in no particular order)

1. Viola Davis, Actress/Producer/Entrepreneur
2. Ed Mylett, Entrepreneur 
3. Evan Carmichael, Entrepreneur  
4. Mary J. Blige, Recording Artist/Author
5. Iris Bolling, Author/Producer
6. Terry Crews, Actor/Host/Author
7. Oprah Winfrey, Talk Show Host/ Author/Entrepreneur
8. Martha Stewart, Entrepreneur/Host/Author
9. Tyler Perry, Producer/Actor/Actor
10. Steve Harvey, Comedian/Actor/Host/Author
11. Luenell, Actress/Comedian/Entrepreneur
12. Tina Siemens, Author/Entrepreneur
13. Robert Helm, Entrepreneur/Author
14. Kerry Washington, Actress/Entrepreneur/Author
15. Gary Vaynerchuk, Entrepreneur/Author
16. Manswell T. Peterson, Author
17. Mario Armstrong, Entrepreneur/ TV Personality
18. Angel Brinks, Entrepreneur/ TV Personality 
19. J. Bolin, Stylist/Entrepreneur
20. Kandi Burruss, Recording Artist/Entrepreneur 
21. Brock Johnson, Entrepreneur 
22. Devon Franklin, Producer/Author 
23. Derek Blanks, Photographer/Entrepreneur
24. Branden Nicholson, Entrepreneur
25. Ruby C. Wight, Entrepreneur/Author

All Sports Head Gear's Robert Helm: From Idea to a New Innovative Brand

by Cyrus Webb

There is nothing like having a vision and then doing the work necessary to turn it into a reality. That is exactly what Robert Helm has been able to do, and now he is able to share it literally with the world.

Robert and I have never met each other in person, but we connected on social media several years ago. He's an individual who likes to inspire and to educate others. He's now also celebrating a great entrepreneurial venture called All Sports Head Gear, a revolutionary product that allow you to stay comfortable during work and play at an affordable price. In this conversation we discuss his journey.

Robert, this is a big year for you with All Sport Head Gear. Let's talk about that for a moment and then we're going to go back to your journey. How does it feel to have had an idea and now to be able to have it available for the world to have?

Well I have to say it is very exciting. I've kind of coined myself as an inventor since I was a young person, always looking for solutions to problems, and I feel like I really hit it big this time because I have developed a product that is really simple yet sophisticated.

One of the things that everyone I think knows is of course of your passion for young people, being able to inspire them and to educate them. You mentioned being an inventor. Have you always known that you had something that you were supposed to share with others?

I have to say as I got older, got married and had children, I think that's the point when I started to realize that I had a purpose in life that was bigger than me. From there, just going through the roles of parenting and marriage and things like that, I realized that having a positive relationship with my wife and building a strong relationship with my kids could be beneficial for other people. And that kind of started my journey off into wanting to help motivate and encourage others.

That's exactly what you've been able to do. I like the fact that you mentioned, Robert, their being bigger than you. I think a lot of times people don't realize that that the gifts that they have are not just for them. Of course it is to benefit other people. So when you see the work that you've been able to do, Robert, being able to do just that—to benefit other individuals, as I mentioned, either through inspiring them, through educating them, through motivating them—does that make you feel then along this path you're doing exactly what you're supposed to be doing?

Yes, but it seems like my life just continues to evolve, and I continue to find things. As I say, my kind of natural instinct is always to look for solutions to problems.

I think the other thing is that people will find out about you, Robert, is that you kind of approach the world with eyes wide open. And what I mean by that is a lot of times we get so focused on our stuff that we miss out on opportunities. You and I had a great conversation where you kind of were talking to me about the inspiration for All Sports Head Gear. Share that with our audience.

With the All Sports Head Gear it was one of those things that was kind of like a fluke. I was sitting with a really, really good friend of mine who's actually a custom clothing designer. We were sitting and talking and I think I was watching YouTube or one of those online video streaming sites, and I happened to see Steph Curry sitting on the sideline with a towel over his head. It kind of pushed me back to my younger days when I played sports. I started thinking why people did that, put a towel over their heads. Some people do it to keep their bodies warm. Some people do it if they're embarrassed or whatever and you don't want to be bothered with looking at other people or other people seeing them.

From that point something just triggered. I grabbed an old towel out of my linen closet, took a permanent marker and started drawing on this cloth. It was kind of like an epiphany moment. My friend the designer grabbed a pair of scissors and started cutting out what I did and within a matter of 15 minutes we had a prototype that had both of us like “Wow. This can be a really amazing thing”.

Actually before this interview I was just reflecting on that and watching the videos, cause I had documented it all through video and through pictures. It was just reliving that experience all over again. There's times, as you said, if you have your eyes wide open and you're always looking for opportunities. It’s about trying to put possibilities into perspective. It is the little things sometime that have the greatest impact. That's what I really see:  the idea for head gear as being a really simple thing, like I said, that becomes a sophisticated product that can have a major impact on athletes around the world. I'm really excited about that.

Thanks for sharing that! Really an inspiring story. Lots in there for our audience to get value from. One things you talked about, though, that is definitely important is being able to cooperate with others. What was it like for you to have people in your circle, Robert, who can be able to compliment the skills and the talents that you have?

Oh, I think it's a God-send for sure. When you are the kind of person who is always looking to solve problems in that process, you realize either you don't have money or you don't have skills sometimes to do things. There’s nothing like having a network of people that you can lean on who believe in you and who care for you in a way that they're willing to contribute to your efforts. And I think most entrepreneurs that we talk to, successful entrepreneurs especially, will be able to share that same type of attitude.

I know when I first started out as an entrepreneur, you know, it was like, “I gotta do this”. I got an idea, and I wanted to keep it secret, keep it to myself so nobody would steal it. What I found is that that's really counterproductive, because as an entrepreneur one of the most valuable things that you can receive is feedback from your peers and from the consumer market. Those things can really help get you over the hurdles that you will encounter trying to do everything yourself.

Social media has been a big part of your marketing. One of the things you were able to share on social media are individuals wearing All Sports. How does that feel to see something that began in your head now on somebody else's head?

it's heart-warming, and it's encouraging and inspiring.  Being able to see people using the product, people enjoying the product, and in some cases people identifying uses for the product I hadn't even considered is great. It just really makes me feel encouraged and wanting to continue developing more products.

You mentioned the uses for the All Sports Head Gear. What are some of the other things you've been seeing and even being able to share with people, Robert, that they can use the all sports hit gear for?

It's funny. I created the product, but then I talked to other people about how they thought the product could be used. I also turned to the internet, googling how people were using towels for different applications. I spoke to one individual that told me that he thought it was great for sports and athletics and all that, but he also thought it would be good for people who go to football games sitting outside in the sun and are sweating. Even good for when it was cold outside or raining.  It was made for all of that. And we even took it a step further by adding a pouch in the neck area of the product so that if you know it was hot outside, you could put an ice pack in there, and it could help keep you cool.

So excited for you, Robert. I know this is going to be a great year for All Sports Head Gear and you. Last thing I want to ask is your advice. What do you hope our audience realizes about the importance of acting on our gifts. What would you say to them about the importance of acting on it and walking in line with that gift?

As you said, we all have gifts and there's no doubt I think one of the biggest struggles in life is identifying what that gift is. The only way to find out what that gift is in my mind is to act on every opportunity that is revealed or presented to you. And through that process you can begin to either develop your gifts or find the gifts and then you should certainly act on that gift without hesitation. Some people live and die with ideas, and they never have an opportunity to manifest into the world. My belief is the more ideas and concepts that you are able to unfold and manifest into this world, it has a greater possibility and greater potential to be able to help generations to come.

Discover the world of All Sports Head Gear at www.allsportsheadgear.com. 

Visionary Manswell T. Peterson: Creating a Legacy One Book at a Time

 by Cyrus Webb

In 2024 I have met so many amazing individuals in person, including my friend and client bestselling author Manswell T. Peterson. 

He is the kind of author who doesn't wait on opportunities to come his way. He creates his own lanes, follows his own rules and has been able to find success with readers along the way.

Though he has written in many genres, what he has created with The Locrottum Universe stands out currently as his crowning achievement, with characters and storylines that keep readers coming back for me. 

In this conversation we talk about the journey to doing what he loves, what it's been like to create his own universe and advice for others wanting to make their own literary dreams come true. 

Manswell, it’s been amazing to watch your success over the past few years. What has it been like for you to see how readers have responded to your work?

Everyday is still amazing. To see readers from all over the country and hearing from them via e-mail or messenger and to see how they fall in love and hate certain characters, shows me that I am on the right track.

The Locrottum Universe has become a big part of your career. How did it all begin?

I thought about it over 10 years ago. Mentally, I started working on the series. Next, the writing began. I watch paranormal and fantasy shows a lot. I saw that there were not different factions all in one series. Therefore, I wanted to create my own fantasy world intertwining several factions.

You have not allowed a particular genre to define you or your writing. Did you always believe in your ability to succeed at any type of writing you chose to do?

Yes. I don’t believe there is a genre that I cannot be successful in; and that is because I will study a genre from every angle. I will look at what’s working and what’s not working. I also pay attention to what the fans are asking for. I then do my best to deliver it.

You have also written children’s books as well. What led you in that direction?

The more e-mails that I got from parents, the more I was concerned that some kids were looking for a new favorite book. My wife and I created Braylen the Bear & Friends because of the warm heart and caring nature of our son, Braylen. I wanted something that ALL kids could gravitate to. And I believe we pulled it off with this series. We have kids asking their parents when is the next one coming. That's exciting to see.

You have also been out and about meeting your readers in person. What is it like meeting your readers and seeing their reactions?

At one function, I sat next to a mom and daughter reading Locrottum Academy 3. I asked the mom was the book good. When she looked up and saw my face, her smile said everything. She began tapping her daughter on the shoulder and when the daughter finally looked up all she could say was, “It’s You”. She said this about 5 times and I asked if she would like me to sign her book and take a picture. Best feeling in the world to me.

Social media is a big part of how we connect with our audiences. How has your relationship with social media evolved over your career?

It allows me to stay in constant contact with readers in real time. When I first begin writing, this was not possible.

You are also big on trying to inspire others to go after their goals and dreams. Why has that been so important for you?

This is about the next generation of writers. I know I can’t write forever. We have to fill the gaps in the literary world as all authors must at some point bid farewell to readers.

 

Any advice you have for those who are looking to begin their own career as an author? 

I remember a new author told me that they had the worse payday in history where they only made 50 cents that day. I told them about my worst day…..I only made 17 cents. They looked at me stunned. They knew if I could have a bad day like that and survive, they knew they would also.

Thanks for the time, Manswell. How can our readers stay connected with you? 

They can find me on Facebook , Instagram and Tiktok under Manswell T. Peterson. You can also find all my books on Amazon at www.manswelltpeterson.com 

Excerpt from K3 by author Tracie O'Neil Horton

Conversations is excited to start offering teasers from great books of all genres in the pages of our magazine. Enjoy this excerpt from Chapter 78 of K3 by author Tracie O'Neil Horton. 

ABOUT K3: A controversial political thriller—or a glimpse into our future? K 3 is a timely, thought-provoking read for today’s audience.

In K 3, the United States has been strictly divided into racial provinces. When Mikela Flanders discovers her country’s true past, she enlists the help of an American Indian, her friends, and an army of wolves to reunite the USA.

Mikela is a brave, smart, strong young woman with courage and honor that help her fight against forces intent on keeping the country separated by race. Her story incorporates elements of adventure, romance, and suspense, along with a tangible love for animals and nature. Above all else, it’s a cautionary tale about how far politicians will go to further their own agendas.

Chapter 78

            Two of the things moved toward the group.  Mikela ran her knife through the eyeball of one of them.  She kicked at another, sending it back and away from her family.

            “Dad!  Boomer, now, let’s go!” Mikela gave out orders while Westmoreland has his face under water.

            “Move, move, move!  Let’s go!” she said to the people who still sat in shock around the table.  People rose numbly.  Michelle and Janice couldn’t stop looking at Sarah’s still body on the table.

            “I know.  But we can’t do anything for her, and your daughters are waiting for you now,” Mikela said as she gently tried to hurry them out the door. 

            “Lexi is going to need you now.”

            Molly and John were already out the door.  James and Peggy were right behind.

            “Chris and Ben…” Peggy said.

            “Should stay right where they are,” Mikela said, hoping the boys would hear.

            “Okay, they’ll stay right where they are,” Peggy said.

            The boys heard.  They needed no encouragement to stay right where they were.  Chris and Ben hugged and stayed quiet under the dining room table.

            Everyone crammed into the Boomer.  John started the vehicle and they were off like a bullet.

            Westmoreland went to the freezer and grabbed a steak to put on his face.

            “Get after them! Follow them!” he yelled.

            His men sprang into action.  He yelled into his E-phone for all local AI to converge on his signal.

            Westmoreland had men in pursuit.  He waited for the new teams to show up.  He had machines from Coopers Falls and every neighboring town within a twenty-five-mile radius.  Vehicles converged on the street.  Neighbors stuck their heads outdoors, asking what was going on.

            Westmoreland told them to shut the fuck up and to get their asses back inside.

            Several gasps ensued.  Indignant old ladies stepped on porches.  Large men dressed in black approached the old ladies with angry faces and large fists raised. The ladies retreated into their homes and watched out windows while spreading the gossip on their E-phones.    Mothers ran outside and picked up their children. 

            Mikela instructed her father to drive to the five combines along the towpath.  John left North Oak Street and drove down East Street to School Street to Pearl Street.

            “They’re following us!” Michelle shrieked.

            Mikela craned her neck to look through the rear window.  It was difficult with all the people crammed into the back of the car.

            “That’s not all of them,” Mikela said.  “Only some are following.  The rest will come when reinforcements arrive at the house.  They will follow those guys’ signal,” she said as she pointed her thumb back behind them.

            John followed Pearl Street until he came to the parking area at the top of the combines.  He paused to park.

            “No, go all the way down.”

            “We aren’t allowed to drive down there.”

            “We are today.  Move it Dad,”

            John glanced at his daughter.

            “Sorry, Dad.”

            He smiled weakly at her.

            “It’s okay honey, we’re all a little tense right now.”

            Mikela couldn’t help it.  She laughed and reached out to squeeze her dad’s shoulder.

            Mikela knew they were following the signal on her phone.  She turned off the GPSE.

            They drove down the steep hill past the stairway that was the five combines.  John didn’t stop until he was at the T at the bottom of the road.  Mikela’s truck was backed into an off-road, a small, man-made road that led to more fields and trees.   She told her father to park next to it. 

            Farmland was out beyond the T paths and Mikela could see her horses grazing.  Two hundred feet from the horses she could see tall grass, reeds and cattails.  There was a pond nearby.

            River was walking to her.   Mikela ran to him, throwing herself at him.  Molly and John watched this with great interest.  Lexi, Alex, Elena, Brian and Sky came to them as well.  Michelle and Janice ran to their daughters.

            “Where’s my mom?” Lexi asked.

            “She stayed with my nephews,” Mikela said.  “They were scared.  I didn’t want them to be here, and I couldn’t leave them alone.”

            She felt terrible for lying to her friend, but it wasn’t a complete lie.  And she needed Lexi to be able to focus on the fight about to come.   The other mothers heard.  They said nothing.

            “He’s human.  The leader is human!” Mikela said to River.  She told him of her mom throwing hot soup at his face.

            “She scalded him.  He is real.”

            Mikela gathered everyone together in front of the truck.

            “Mom, Dad, James, Peggy, Michelle and Janice, go to where the horses are, and head for those reeds.  I want you to hunker down in the reeds and cattail and don’t move.”

            “But Mikela, it’s dirty down there, and there will be bugs,” Michelle said.

            “Mom, get dirty!” Alex barked.  “Better dirty than dead.”

            Michelle flinched.

            “I can help,” James said.

            Mikela smiled and shook her head.

            “No, bro, you can’t.  Just go with the ladies and keep them safe.”

            “The boys have my E-phone.  I slipped it to Chris when they crawled under the table,” Peggy said.  “Please let us know when we can go back to them.”

            Two black Millennium Mountain Lions pulled into the parking area at the top of the five combines.  They were followed by two more, and then two more behind that.  The things looked around and found nothing.  Mikela’s signal had stopped here.  One spoke into his E-phone.  Westmoreland barked orders for them to check out where the road led.

            “Will they come after us?” Peggy asked as she walked towards the pasture.

            “They will.  They are waiting for the boss,” Mikela said.

            “I love you,” Molly said as she walked away from her daughter.

            “I love you, Elena,” Janice said.

            Alex hugged Michelle.  “I love you Mom,” she said.

            “Okay, enough.  Go.  Now!” Mikela said sternly.

            Her parents shrunk from her.  The girls’ parents, with Peggy and James, walked down the slight hill to the pasture and disappeared.  They appeared again briefly, then were lost in the reeds and cattails.  Michelle’s comment of ‘YUCH’ could be heard.  They all laughed for a bit.

            Alex put a hand out.

            “Robot stoppers, let’s go!”  They all put a hand in.

            “To freedom!” Lexi cheered.

            “Yes, let’s get ourselves emancipated!” Alex yelled.

            The hooting and cheering abruptly stopped.  All eyes turned to Alex.

            “What?”  Alex asked.  “What did I do?”

            “Why is it always the not smart ones?” Elena said.

            “The Emancipation Proclamation is the key,” Mikela whispered.

            “Oh, my stars.  OH! MY! STARS!!” Lexi said.  “We can turn them off.”

            Mikela fumbled with her pockets.

            “Where is it?  Where is it?” she was frantic.  Her eyes grew wide as she fumbled for her E-Phone.  It must be in the Boomer.

            “What?”  Elena asked.

            “My E-phone. I need to call my nephews.  They can help.”

            “Here, use my E-phone.  Call my mom,” Lexi handed her phone to Mikela.

            “Oh, honey,” Mikela looked at her friend and her lip quivered.

            “No...no,” Lexi stammered.  Brian came up behind her and held her.

            Sixty cars pulled into the parking area.  There was no place to park any more.  The cars lined up one behind the other in the parking area, and more just stopped, overflowing from the lot onto Pearl Street.  Car doors slammed shut, making a noise as loud as thunder.

            “I’m so sorry, Lexi.  Your mom was hurt.  That’s why she stayed behind.”

            The man with the scalded face was walking towards them.  His face looked red and angry.  I hope it really hurts, Mikela thought.

            “Lexi, I need you to be strong now.  That asshole walking towards us hurt your mom.  We have to be strong and level headed so we can beat him.”                                                        

            Mikela took Lexi’s phone and called Peggy’s number.   Chris answered on the first ring.

            “Chris, it’s Aunt Mike.  I need your help, okay? Can you help me?”

            “Yes,” Chris whispered.

            “I want Mommy, I want Mommy,” Benjamin was saying repeatedly.

            “Good boy.  Go in the kitchen to where the man is standing in the corner.  You need to turn him on.  He’s turned off, like one of your toys.”

            Mikela looked up to see the man she had scalded.  He was close, and he had a gun. They all had guns.

            “Disperse!”  Mikela said. 

            Everyone ran for the woods.

            “Chris, we need him turned on,” Mikela said while she ran to the woods.”  He can help us, so we can come home.  You want us home, right?” she was whispering now.

            “Yes.” Chris’ voice was soft, and quiet.  He was in shock, she knew.

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