My Story
The Gift of Storytelling
Everybody is born with a gift. I discovered my gift for weaving compelling stories when I wrote my first short story, “Jealousy Will Kill,” at 14 years old. I wrote this fictional tale of infidelity for my homework and despite the heavy topic for a teenage girl, it sparked my passion for storytelling through writing. Even when I was young, I found myself drawn to narratives that resonated with mature audiences, particularly fiction targeting African-American women.
A Different Career Path
My affinity for storytelling, especially within the realm of African-American fiction, grew stronger over time. But despite this natural inclination, I initially hesitated to embrace writing as a career. Instead, I aspired to become a public relations specialist.
The Turning Point
My journey into professional writing began unexpectedly, driven by necessity rather than design. After graduating from Clark Atlanta University with a B.A. in Mass Media Arts, I faced a challenging job market. During this period of unemployment, I started writing African-American women’s fiction short stories. This creative outlet not only helped me stay engaged but also led to the sale of my work to several prominent magazines, including (now defunct) Jive, Bronze Thrills, Black Romance, and Black Confessions.
Embracing My Calling
As I continued to write, I found myself increasingly drawn to the craft. The more I wrote, the more I realized that storytelling was not just a hobby, but a calling from God. While my job search remained stagnant, my writing career began to flourish. It became clear that sometimes, life’s unexpected twists can lead us to our true purpose, and for me, that purpose was storytelling.
The End of the Magazine Era
The decline of print magazines marked a significant shift in the publishing industry, leading to the demise of black romance magazines and, subsequently, my publishing career. As print media began to fade, the rise of the internet transformed the way content was created and consumed. Because of this change, a pivot in my professional trajectory was necessary.
Adapting to New Opportunities
In response to the industry changes, I developed my skills in web content writing, specifically SEO copywriting. While this skill allowed me to adapt to the evolving digital landscape, I found it lacked the creative fulfillment I derived from other forms of writing. My true passion lies in crafting stories that highlight the challenges and triumphs of African-American women, a genre that continues to inspire and motivate me.
Reaffirming My Passion
Despite the shift towards digital content, my heart remains committed to publishing African-American women’s fiction. Decades later, this genre continues to resonate deeply with me and provides a platform to explore themes and stories that are both meaningful and impactful. My dedication to this genre is unwavering, and I continue to find joy and purpose in creating stories that resonate with my audience.
Contact Me
I’d love to hear from you! Send me an email, and I’ll reply as soon as I can. Thank you!