Author Signing Celebrations
Celebrated Author - Michael Lucker
December 6, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
About the Author
is an award-winning author, screenwriter, and educator with fifteen years experience writing for major studios and fifteen years experience lecturing at major universities.
He began his career writing cable commercials while earning his undergraduate degree in broadcasting and film at Boston University’s College of Communication. Soon after he landed in Los Angeles working in production for ABC, NBC, CBS, and HBO before taking a job as assistant to Steven Spielberg at Amblin Entertainment on the feature films Always, Arachnophobia, Indiana Jones & the Last Crusade, and Jurassic Park.
Michael went on to work in creative affairs at Hollywood Pictures on movies Crimson Tide, Terminal Velocity, Straight Talk, and Taking Care of Business before embarking on a career as a screenwriter for Paramount, Disney, DreamWorks, Fox, and Universal on films Vampire in Brooklyn, Home on The Range, Mulan II, LIlo & Stitch II, Emperor's New Groove II, and Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, which was nominated for an Academy Award as best animated feature.
Soon an opportunity to help launch a new network for Turner Entertainment brought him home to Atlanta. He went on to work in television creating series for Animal Planet, Travel Channel, Cartoon Network, Discovery, History, TBS, TNT, TLC, OWN, DIY, A&E, and MSNBC. He also consulted on indie films Fear of Rain, Signing Day, Good Intentions., and On a Wing and a Prayer.
Recently, Michael was hired to adapt the award-winning children’s book series Freeing Freddie by FTM Media, write the feature thriller Project 33 for Monument Media, pen the feature drama Fathom & Faith for Three Ring Pictures, develop the limited series A Nation on Fire for ShoulderHill Entertainment, and serve as script doctor on the animated series Scout Elf Squad for The Lumistella Company.
A renowned instructor in screenwriting, Michael serves as senior lecturer at the University of North Georgia, mentor in Reinhardt University’s Creative Writing MFA program, and founder of Screenwriter School. In 2017 the Georgia Film Academy hired him to create a high school screenwriting curriculum which has since been taught to more than 15,000 students in the state.
is an award-winning author, screenwriter, and educator with fifteen years experience writing for major studios and fifteen years experience lecturing at major universities.
He began his career writing cable commercials while earning his undergraduate degree in broadcasting and film at Boston University’s College of Communication. Soon after he landed in Los Angeles working in production for ABC, NBC, CBS, and HBO before taking a job as assistant to Steven Spielberg at Amblin Entertainment on the feature films Always, Arachnophobia, Indiana Jones & the Last Crusade, and Jurassic Park.
Michael went on to work in creative affairs at Hollywood Pictures on movies Crimson Tide, Terminal Velocity, Straight Talk, and Taking Care of Business before embarking on a career as a screenwriter for Paramount, Disney, DreamWorks, Fox, and Universal on films Vampire in Brooklyn, Home on The Range, Mulan II, LIlo & Stitch II, Emperor's New Groove II, and Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, which was nominated for an Academy Award as best animated feature.
Soon an opportunity to help launch a new network for Turner Entertainment brought him home to Atlanta. He went on to work in television creating series for Animal Planet, Travel Channel, Cartoon Network, Discovery, History, TBS, TNT, TLC, OWN, DIY, A&E, and MSNBC. He also consulted on indie films Fear of Rain, Signing Day, Good Intentions., and On a Wing and a Prayer.
Recently, Michael was hired to adapt the award-winning children’s book series Freeing Freddie by FTM Media, write the feature thriller Project 33 for Monument Media, pen the feature drama Fathom & Faith for Three Ring Pictures, develop the limited series A Nation on Fire for ShoulderHill Entertainment, and serve as script doctor on the animated series Scout Elf Squad for The Lumistella Company.
A renowned instructor in screenwriting, Michael serves as senior lecturer at the University of North Georgia, mentor in Reinhardt University’s Creative Writing MFA program, and founder of Screenwriter School. In 2017 the Georgia Film Academy hired him to create a high school screenwriting curriculum which has since been taught to more than 15,000 students in the state.
About the Book
Ever been to a doctor who didn’t listen? Didn’t care? Didn’t help?
Here’s a thriller to teach them a lesson.
DENT McCREARY is a mess. Dumped by his ex, missing her daughter, and living in a roach-infested apartment, he uses Jack Daniels and Pepto Bismol to get by. It’s no way for one of the country’s leading FBI profilers to live. But alas, Dent has issues. When a renowned doctor is found dead in a heap in a dryer in Los Angeles, Dent and a rookie partner are brought in to investigate. A few tours in special forces prepared Dent for the dirty work. It didn’t prepare him for navigating the nation's healthcare system to stop a madman from killing doctors coast to coast.
Written with the irreverent wit of Elmore Leonard and Kurt Vonnegut, the mind-bending mystery leads readers on a wild ride through America’s back alleys and country roads to a heart-wrenching conclusion as Dent fights to save the life of the only person he ever really loved.
Ever been to a doctor who didn’t listen? Didn’t care? Didn’t help?
Here’s a thriller to teach them a lesson.
DENT McCREARY is a mess. Dumped by his ex, missing her daughter, and living in a roach-infested apartment, he uses Jack Daniels and Pepto Bismol to get by. It’s no way for one of the country’s leading FBI profilers to live. But alas, Dent has issues. When a renowned doctor is found dead in a heap in a dryer in Los Angeles, Dent and a rookie partner are brought in to investigate. A few tours in special forces prepared Dent for the dirty work. It didn’t prepare him for navigating the nation's healthcare system to stop a madman from killing doctors coast to coast.
Written with the irreverent wit of Elmore Leonard and Kurt Vonnegut, the mind-bending mystery leads readers on a wild ride through America’s back alleys and country roads to a heart-wrenching conclusion as Dent fights to save the life of the only person he ever really loved.
Celebrated Authors - Lisa Maria & Zeni Roy
November 22 2025 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Author - Lisa Maria | Amaranthine Arts
She has always been an artist. Determined, curious, and a little stubborn, Lisa has never stopped creating or learning new ways to bring her ideas to life. As a young girl, she came across a word that stayed with her ever since — Amaranthine — meaning eternally beautiful, unfading, everlasting. That word became her anchor and the name behind Amaranthine Arts, the space where all of her creative passions come together.
Her work is intentional, heartfelt, and therapeutic, created to guide and celebrate wellness and the things in life that truly matter. Her affirmation journals, holiday keepsakes, and workbooks are all designed to support growth and self-discovery, that would guide the way to self-actualization.
She also brings her artistic skills to illustration and is happily working on books with her mom, drawing from real moments in their lives. Art and writing have always been at the heart of who she is, and she’s discovered a similar beauty in design and technology, using them as another way to bring her ideas to life.
Her work is about expression and creating things that last, even in small ways. For Lisa, art has always been a way to connect—with herself, with others, and with the kind of beauty that lingers. She makes her work last in both feeling and form. Amaranthine Arts is her way of keeping that promise—creating things that hold love, honesty, a little bit (a lot!) of wonder, that last a whole lot longer — and forever stronger.
About Her Books
Lisa's books focus on reflection, gratitude, and growth—creative works designed to help readers pause and truly feel. They offer moments that lift spirits, spark joy, and encourage slowing down. Her affirmation journals provide gentle encouragement when it’s needed most, the holiday keepsake books create space for meaningful memories, and the New Year’s Resolutions & Reflection Book inspires dreaming bigger without added pressure. The children’s books she illustrated for her mother are full of color, heart, and stories that bring smiles from the inside out.
She has always been an artist. Determined, curious, and a little stubborn, Lisa has never stopped creating or learning new ways to bring her ideas to life. As a young girl, she came across a word that stayed with her ever since — Amaranthine — meaning eternally beautiful, unfading, everlasting. That word became her anchor and the name behind Amaranthine Arts, the space where all of her creative passions come together.
Her work is intentional, heartfelt, and therapeutic, created to guide and celebrate wellness and the things in life that truly matter. Her affirmation journals, holiday keepsakes, and workbooks are all designed to support growth and self-discovery, that would guide the way to self-actualization.
She also brings her artistic skills to illustration and is happily working on books with her mom, drawing from real moments in their lives. Art and writing have always been at the heart of who she is, and she’s discovered a similar beauty in design and technology, using them as another way to bring her ideas to life.
Her work is about expression and creating things that last, even in small ways. For Lisa, art has always been a way to connect—with herself, with others, and with the kind of beauty that lingers. She makes her work last in both feeling and form. Amaranthine Arts is her way of keeping that promise—creating things that hold love, honesty, a little bit (a lot!) of wonder, that last a whole lot longer — and forever stronger.
About Her Books
Lisa's books focus on reflection, gratitude, and growth—creative works designed to help readers pause and truly feel. They offer moments that lift spirits, spark joy, and encourage slowing down. Her affirmation journals provide gentle encouragement when it’s needed most, the holiday keepsake books create space for meaningful memories, and the New Year’s Resolutions & Reflection Book inspires dreaming bigger without added pressure. The children’s books she illustrated for her mother are full of color, heart, and stories that bring smiles from the inside out.
Author - Zeni Roy
Zeni Roy has always seen the world through a lens of quiet wonder. As a child, nature was her playground and her teacher—its beauty stirred her imagination and gave life to her creativity. Books, art, and writing naturally followed, becoming the language through which she made sense of the world.
Over the years, she’s lived a full and meaningful life with her husband and three daughters, guided by curiosity, care, and reflection. But through it all, poetry has remained her steady heartbeat. It’s where her love for nature, her experiences as a teacher, and the lessons of motherhood come together in words that feel alive.
Her writing is simple in spirit but deep in feeling—born from love, wonder, and an understanding of how children see the world. Her work focuses on mindful awareness, emotional growth, gratitude, and love. Through her stories and poems, she hopes to spark curiosity, nurture compassion, and remind both children and adults of the quiet connections that make life beautiful.
About Her BooksZeni Roy writes from the heart, creating gentle, imaginative stories that capture the quiet magic in everyday life. Her books encourage readers to explore love, curiosity, and mindful awareness, showing how simple moments can become truly special. Her daughter's illustrations add warmth and feeling, bringing each story to life and making every page a joy to experience. And these are just the beginning — many more wonderful stories are on their way!
Zeni Roy has always seen the world through a lens of quiet wonder. As a child, nature was her playground and her teacher—its beauty stirred her imagination and gave life to her creativity. Books, art, and writing naturally followed, becoming the language through which she made sense of the world.
Over the years, she’s lived a full and meaningful life with her husband and three daughters, guided by curiosity, care, and reflection. But through it all, poetry has remained her steady heartbeat. It’s where her love for nature, her experiences as a teacher, and the lessons of motherhood come together in words that feel alive.
Her writing is simple in spirit but deep in feeling—born from love, wonder, and an understanding of how children see the world. Her work focuses on mindful awareness, emotional growth, gratitude, and love. Through her stories and poems, she hopes to spark curiosity, nurture compassion, and remind both children and adults of the quiet connections that make life beautiful.
About Her BooksZeni Roy writes from the heart, creating gentle, imaginative stories that capture the quiet magic in everyday life. Her books encourage readers to explore love, curiosity, and mindful awareness, showing how simple moments can become truly special. Her daughter's illustrations add warmth and feeling, bringing each story to life and making every page a joy to experience. And these are just the beginning — many more wonderful stories are on their way!
Celebrated Author - Michaela Carter
November 15, 2025 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
About the Book
Little Miss Payton loves spending time with her great-grandmother, Ms. Mae. One day, while visiting, Payton discovers a mysterious blue book on Grandma Mae's dresser-a hymnal. Curious, she asks about it and soon finds herself learning the beautiful song, Amazing Grace. As Grandma Mae teaches her the lyrics, Payton hilariously misinterprets a word, leading to a heartwarming conversation about God's love and grace.Through laughter, music, and faith, Payton learns that God's grace is a precious gift, given freely out of love. This touching story celebrates family bonds, the joy of worship, and the power of using our voices to praise God. Payton Finds Her Voice, the second book in the Little Miss Payton's Stories series, is a delightful introduction to faith for young readers, reminding them that even the smallest voices can sing big praises!Little Miss Payton loves spending time with her great-grandmother, Ms. Mae. One day, while visiting, Payton discovers a mysterious blue book on Grandma Mae's dresser-a hymnal. Curious, she asks about it and soon finds herself learning the beautiful song, Amazing Grace. As Grandma Mae teaches her the lyrics, Payton hilariously misinterprets a word, leading to a heartwarming conversation about God's love and grace.Through laughter, music, and faith, Payton learns that God's grace is a precious gift, given freely out of love. This touching story celebrates family bonds, the joy of worship, and the power of using our voices to praise God. Payton Finds Her Voice, the second book in the Little Miss Payton's Stories series, is a delightful introduction to faith for young readers, reminding them that even the smallest voices can sing big praises!
Celebrated Author Rev. Jodi L. Suson
October 18, 2025 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
About the Book and Author
The book is eye-opening as it offers a new path for honoring your body as sacred space, which translates to self-healing, self-acceptance, self-love, and driving home the importance of forgiveness, gratitude, and leading from love.
In Rev. Jodi Suson’s newly released book, “Emotional Healing Toxic Free Living, Model New Behaviors & Reset Old Belief Systems” the Amazon best-selling author opens up about her 20 year journey of misdiagnosis and overmedication. She connected the dots between daily exposure to chemicals and harmful frequencies to our mental health conditions which drive disease. This all leads to trauma, fractured souls and walk-ins, which the WMC (Western Medical Club) refers to as Bi-Polar Disorder, Narcissism, autism and more. As a Quantum Energy Healer, she has downloaded the secret sauce to reframing mental health for the world and helping people to shift from “poisonous pills to plants and prayers.”
Rev. Jodi is a powerful Medical Intuitive and Animal Communicator. She shares her wisdom on her Podcast, Self-Cell Care available on all podcast platforms. She empowers people to take control of their health and rise up to who they are meant to be, by releasing negative ancestral patterns, soul retrieval, and then lead your life with love!
The book is endorsed by world leaders in Mental & Brain Health as well as Quantum Energy Healing; including Dr. Patrick Porter, BrainTap, Jeramy Freeman, Freeman Formula and Pixar’s inspiration for Mr. Incredible, Dr. Michelle Kukla, Healthy Living Counseling Center, & Board Vice President for PAVE, Dr. Stephen Spencer, ND, ProTouch Rehab and Dr. Doug Lehrer, DC, Cellular Resonance.
Celebrated Author - Brittany Petish
October 10, 2025 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
About the Author
Brittany Petish is a children’s author, illustrator, and award-winning Creative Director based in Woodstock, Georgia. Through her publishing imprint, True Heart Tails, she creates books inspired by real animals and the lessons they teach about courage, friendship, and love. Her stories — including Sally the Brave, Daisy Mae, Goodbye Blue, and Tate the Wonder Doodle — connect with children and families on themes of kindness, resilience, and celebrating differences.Beyond writing, Brittany brings 15 years of creative experience leading national campaigns and also volunteers with children with special needs, combining her passion for storytelling, art, and making a difference in the community.
About Sally the Brave
Inspired by a real deer in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sally the Brave tells the story of a fawn born with a torn ear and a limp who learns to see her differences as her strength. Sally’s journey reminds us that true courage isn’t about being the fastest or the strongest — it’s about facing challenges with kindness, resilience, and heart.
PAST CELEBRATIONS
Celebrated Author - Elder Adrian A.F. Consonery Sr.
August 23, 2025 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
In And Then HE Turned Them Over... When Truth Is Traded
Elder Adrian A.F. Consonery Sr. issues a bold wake-up call to a generation that has silenced God while desperately needing His mercy. Inspired by Romans 1:18–32, he exposes the spiritual and cultural collapse that follows when truth is rejected, from moral decay and family breakdown to the celebration of sin. Drawing from over 15 years of study, he warns of the consequences of ignoring God yet offers hope for repentance before it is too late. This is not a sugar-coated message, but a clear roadmap for returning to God’s truth and rebuilding on His foundation. It is both a challenge and an invitation for believers, seekers, and families to realign with God while there is still time.
About the AuthorElder Adrian A.F. Consonery Sr., born in Brunswick, Georgia, and raised in Virginia Beach and South Louisiana, is a Grambling State University alumnus who studied Automotive Engineering and played football under Coach Eddie Robinson. While at Grambling, his growing spiritual awareness led him to see how far humanity had drifted from God’s original design. Married to Dr. Crystal M. Consonery for 30 years, he is a devoted husband, father, and servant of God living in the Metro Atlanta area. His book, And Then HE Turned Them Over... When Truth Is Traded, reflects fifteen years of observing society’s moral decline and the gap between those who truly walk with God and those who only claim to. He writes with the conviction that it’s not about religion but relationship, urging readers to return to God, restore what has been lost, and realign their lives with His truth.
About the AuthorElder Adrian A.F. Consonery Sr., born in Brunswick, Georgia, and raised in Virginia Beach and South Louisiana, is a Grambling State University alumnus who studied Automotive Engineering and played football under Coach Eddie Robinson. While at Grambling, his growing spiritual awareness led him to see how far humanity had drifted from God’s original design. Married to Dr. Crystal M. Consonery for 30 years, he is a devoted husband, father, and servant of God living in the Metro Atlanta area. His book, And Then HE Turned Them Over... When Truth Is Traded, reflects fifteen years of observing society’s moral decline and the gap between those who truly walk with God and those who only claim to. He writes with the conviction that it’s not about religion but relationship, urging readers to return to God, restore what has been lost, and realign their lives with His truth.
Celebrated Author - Elizabeth Michaud
July 25, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Elizabeth Michaud’s debut collection creeps into consciousness the way echoes of place and people weave through slumber—a storied patchwork recollecting love and loss and longing. With narrative lyricism and an imaginative prowess for keen social commentary and the observational (extra)ordinary, Michaud spins whispered bedside prayers, love potions, campfire-cautionary tales, ghostly forms, and meter and verse. From our daydreams, waking dreams, “take these reckless sighs I breathe / and this weakness in my knees” dreams, to our anxiety-fueled, “she chants her words for all to hear / And one by one, they fall in fear” lore, Five Dreams lures us with both the threat and promise of waking, while reminding us not all nightmares fall away with the sleep from our eyes.
The Bones in the GardenIn The Bones in the Garden (and other things found there), Elizabeth Michaud acts as our collective story keeper. She guides us through the scars left by American slavery, the caves and crevices of fantastical creatures, and the simple rooms where love can liberate us. This is a varied offering interweaving passion, pain, and folklore, like cream dissolving into coffee.
In this second collection of poetry, Michaud continues her narrative journey in verse.
The Bones in the GardenIn The Bones in the Garden (and other things found there), Elizabeth Michaud acts as our collective story keeper. She guides us through the scars left by American slavery, the caves and crevices of fantastical creatures, and the simple rooms where love can liberate us. This is a varied offering interweaving passion, pain, and folklore, like cream dissolving into coffee.
In this second collection of poetry, Michaud continues her narrative journey in verse.
Celebrated Author - Nadia Fountain
July 26, 2025 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Are you ready to turn your juicing game into a vibrant, sustainable lifestyle? Join us for an exclusive book signing and wellness experience as we celebrate the launch of Zero Waste Guide to Juicing: 85+ Easy Sustainable Recipes and Smart Tips for Juicing with Less.
This isn’t just a recipe book—it’s your seasonal roadmap to nourishing your body and reducing food waste, one delicious sip (and smart reuse!) at a time.
What’s Inside:85+ fresh, seasonal juice recipes for spring, summer, fall & winterSmart tips on detoxing, juicing gear, flavor balancing, and moreBonus: 45+ zero-waste pulp recipes for snacks, meals & even skincareEducation meets inspiration—learn to juice with purpose
Whether you’re a wellness newbie or a longtime juice lover, this guide empowers you to juice smarter, waste less, and feel your best—while doing good for the planet. Perfect for:
✔️ Juice enthusiasts & health-conscious foodies✔️ Sustainable lifestyle advocates✔️ Zero-waste & eco-conscious consumers
This isn’t just a recipe book—it’s your seasonal roadmap to nourishing your body and reducing food waste, one delicious sip (and smart reuse!) at a time.
What’s Inside:85+ fresh, seasonal juice recipes for spring, summer, fall & winterSmart tips on detoxing, juicing gear, flavor balancing, and moreBonus: 45+ zero-waste pulp recipes for snacks, meals & even skincareEducation meets inspiration—learn to juice with purpose
Whether you’re a wellness newbie or a longtime juice lover, this guide empowers you to juice smarter, waste less, and feel your best—while doing good for the planet. Perfect for:
✔️ Juice enthusiasts & health-conscious foodies✔️ Sustainable lifestyle advocates✔️ Zero-waste & eco-conscious consumers
Celebrated Author - Wanda Pearson
June 13, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Get ready for a riveting and inspiring journey as Wanda opens up about her tumultuous past, marked by an abusive stepfather and a mother who endured his control for far too long. Against all odds, her mother found the strength to break free from this destructive cycle, providing Wanda with a newfound sense of safety and security in the loving embrace of her father and stepmother. In this captivating account, Wanda shares her story, inviting readers to join her on a path of understanding abuse, uncovering its causes, and ultimately escaping its clutches to become the person they were destined to be. As a social worker, Wanda’s compassionate nature shines through as she dedicates herself to empowering women to unleash their fullpotential. The writing bug bit her during the collaborative process of her first collaborative book, “Audacity to Shine.”
With unwavering conviction, Wanda believes that we allpossess the audacity to shine when we embrace God’s plan, conquer fear with unwavering faith, and triumph over any challenge life throws our way. Prepare to be inspired to overcome, survive, and thrive in the face of adversity!
Celebrated Author - Michelle
June 14, 2025 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Ultimately, "Laying Hope on the Mat" aims to offer comfort, peace, and healing to those who are grieving, helping them to find hope and resilience in their own journeys. "Laying Hope on the Mat" is a heartfelt story that aims to encourage, uplift, and provide comfort to those experiencing loss. It recounts my personal experience of losing my daughter and how the Lord and the tools He provided helped me to be able to help someone else today. By faith, community support, and self-care practices, He helped me hold on to hope and find resilience. The book offers shared experiences, practical advice, and prayers to help readers find peace and healing in their own grieving process. Ultimately, it seeks to provide comfort and support to those who are grieving, helping them to find hope and strength in their own journeys.
Celebrated Authors
May 15, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
8 Cities 8 Days Black Bookstore Tour
Victoria Christopher Murray
Victoria is a New York Times bestselling author of more than thirty novels, including The Personal Librarian, a Good Morning America book club pick, and The First Ladies, Target's 2023 Book of the Year, both of which she coauthored with Marie Benedict. She is a NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Literary Work for her novel Stand Your Ground, which was also a Library Journal Best Book of the Year. She holds an MBA from the NYU Stern School of Business.
Harlem Rhapsody "In 1919, as civil and social unrest grips the country, there is a little corner of America, a place called Harlem where something special is stirring. Here, the New Negro is rising and Black pride is evident everywhere...in music, theatre, fashion and the arts. And there on stage in the center of this renaissance is Jessie Redmon Fauset, the new literary editor of the preeminent Negro magazine The Crisis. W.E.B. Du Bois, the founder and editor of The Crisis, has charged her with discovering young writers whose words will change the world. Jessie attacks the challenge with fervor, quickly finding sixteen-year-old Countee Cullen, seventeen-year-old Langston Hughes, and Nella Larsen, who becomes one of her best friends. Under Jessie's leadership, The Crisis thrives, the writers become notable and magazine subscriptions soar. Every Negro writer in the country wants their work published in the magazine now known for its groundbreaking poetry and short stories. Jessie's rising star is shining bright....but her relationship with W.E.B. could jeopardize all that she's built. The man, considered by most to be the leader of Black America, is not only Jessie's boss, he's her lover. And neither his wife, nor their fourteen-year-age difference can keep the two apart. Their torrid and tumultuous affair is complicated by a secret desire that Jessie harbors - to someday, herself, become the editor of the magazine, a position that only W.E.B. Du Bois has held. In the face of overwhelming sexism and racism, Jessie must balance her drive with her desires. However, as she strives to preserve her legacy, she'll discover the high cost of her unparalleled success."
Harlem Rhapsody Review Quotes:
"If you like to learn something while lost in a gripping narrative, don't miss this historical fiction about the woman who kicked off the Harlem Renaissance."
-- People
"A page turner and history lesson at once, Harlem Rhapsody reminds us that our stories are our generational wealth-- this book and the real lives that inspired it."-- Tayari Jones, New York Times bestselling author of An American Marriage (Oprah's Book Club)
"A page turner and history lesson at once, Harlem Rhapsody reminds us that our stories are our generational wealth-- this book and the real lives that inspired it."-- Tayari Jones, New York Times bestselling author of An American Marriage (Oprah's Book Club)
ReShonda Tate
ReShonda is a national bestselling author and award-winning journalist, with the credentials and passion, to bring stories to life. A highly sought-after motivational speaker/poet, ReShonda is a three-time nominee and previous winner of the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literature. She has received a plethora of distinguished awards and honors for her journalism, fiction, and poetry writing skills, including an induction into the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame and the Texas Literary Hall of Fame. Two of her novels have been made into television movies.
The Queen Of Sugar Hill
"It was supposed to be the highlight of her career, the pinnacle for which she'd worked all her life. And as Hattie McDaniel took the stage in 1940 to claim an honor that would make her the first African-American woman to win an Academy Award, she tearfully took her place in history. Between personal triumphs and tragedies, heartbreaking losses, and severe setbacks, this historic night of winning best supporting actress for her role as the sassy Mammy in the controversial movie Gone With the Wind was going to be life-changing. Or so she thought. Months after winning the award, not only did the Oscar curse set in where Hattie couldn't find work, but she found herself thrust in the middle of two worlds--Black and White--and not being welcomed in either"--
Queen of Sugar Hill Review Quotes: "The Queen of Sugar Hill doesn't magnify the "mammy" caricature that McDaniel was known for, it beautifully showcases her highs and lows within the industry, and highlights her friendships with both Black and White people in Hollywood. There are strong themes of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming within this book, and it also sheds light on old Hollywood." -- Essence
In bringing to life the inimitable Hattie against the backdrop of her segregated times, The Queen of Sugar Hill introduces readers to the important, inspiring, heart-wrenching story of the legendary actress whose legacy deserve to be fully understood and celebrated." -- Marie Benedict, New York Times bestselling author of The First Ladies and The Personal Librarian
Queen of Sugar Hill Review Quotes: "The Queen of Sugar Hill doesn't magnify the "mammy" caricature that McDaniel was known for, it beautifully showcases her highs and lows within the industry, and highlights her friendships with both Black and White people in Hollywood. There are strong themes of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming within this book, and it also sheds light on old Hollywood." -- Essence
In bringing to life the inimitable Hattie against the backdrop of her segregated times, The Queen of Sugar Hill introduces readers to the important, inspiring, heart-wrenching story of the legendary actress whose legacy deserve to be fully understood and celebrated." -- Marie Benedict, New York Times bestselling author of The First Ladies and The Personal Librarian
Celebrated Author - Rasheda Randle
May 10, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Letters to My Loved One
is your guide through the waves of loss, offering a gentle space to express sentiments that often prove difficult to put into words.
Through the timeless art of letter-writing, and with prompts that encourage reflection, personal insights, and moments of peace and stillness, this journal becomes your companion through the various steps of healing. Whether you've experienced recent loss or are still carrying the weight of grief from years past, this journal is designed to help you find release, clarity, and solace in your own time, while discovering that healing is not linear but can be beautifully transformative with each page you fill.
Let this be the space where your grief is seen, your heart is heard, and your hope is slowly reborn.
Celebrated Author - Cher Terais
April 12th, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Tempest in Tulum
Venture into the shadows of Atlanta's elite. Behind the grandeur of architectural wonders, Delia McGee-Aguillen harbors a secret life; one that juxtaposes the elegance of Atlanta's high society with the adrenaline-pumping underworld of mixed martial arts. A traumatic past event both shatters her architectural dreams and fuels her need to defend.
Then, Okiyo Bambdi storms into her life - a former MI-6 agent who’s seen it all yet is drawn to the storm Delia brings. As the passion intensifies, they find themselves ensnared in a dance of danger, desire, and secrets.
In 'Tempest in Tulum', love isn’t just about falling; it’s about rediscovering oneself amidst the chaos.
Then, Okiyo Bambdi storms into her life - a former MI-6 agent who’s seen it all yet is drawn to the storm Delia brings. As the passion intensifies, they find themselves ensnared in a dance of danger, desire, and secrets.
In 'Tempest in Tulum', love isn’t just about falling; it’s about rediscovering oneself amidst the chaos.
Cher Terais is an acclaimed author known for her captivating love stories set in exotic destinations worldwide. She beautifully explores the complexities of Black love, blending rich cultural experiences with heartfelt romance. Her debut novel, Bali Blue, immerses readers in Bali’s lush landscapes, while Mess on the Mara intertwines modern dating with Kenya’s breathtaking savannahs.
With upcoming novels set in Mexico, Paris, Turkey, and Fiji, Cher’s passion for travel fuels her storytelling. A former Army service member and Program Manager in the Middle East, her global experiences bring authenticity to her work.
Originally from Warner Robins, Georgia, she has traveled across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Europe, crafting immersive, culturally rich narratives. As a proud mother and grandmother, she embraces adventure in both life and writing. A true voice in Wanderlust Romance, Cher’s stories celebrate love, self-discovery, and the transformative power of travel.
Celebrated Author - Toyin Falusi Nwafor, MD
April 5th, 2025 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
The Decade After - Thriving After Divorce
After nine years of marriage, Toyin M. Falusi, MD, a specialist in infectious diseases, found herself divorced and raising two young children. It was a trying, stressful time, but rather than accept the hackneyed stereotype of the miserable and overwrought single mom, Falusi chose to embrace her new existence.
Twelve years later, she’s still leading a happy, successful life. In The Decade After: Surviving Thriving after Divorce, she shares what she’s learned along the way.
While this is not a self-help manual, much inside will resonate with recently divorced women. It is also not exactly an advice book, although Falusi does offer tips and tactics to help you adjust to life after marriage breakdown and separation. Rather, this is an informal, often funny conversation, with Falusi expounding on such topics as raising well-adjusted kids, working with—not against—your ex-spouse, building a support system, and taking care of yourself.
Life does not end after divorce, nor does it have to plunge into stress, loneliness, and despair. Take it from Falusi—twelve years later, she’s still going strong. While she remains willing to entertain the possibility of a new serious relationship, she’s quite happy as she is—self-reliant, successful, and fulfilled!
Twelve years later, she’s still leading a happy, successful life. In The Decade After: Surviving Thriving after Divorce, she shares what she’s learned along the way.
While this is not a self-help manual, much inside will resonate with recently divorced women. It is also not exactly an advice book, although Falusi does offer tips and tactics to help you adjust to life after marriage breakdown and separation. Rather, this is an informal, often funny conversation, with Falusi expounding on such topics as raising well-adjusted kids, working with—not against—your ex-spouse, building a support system, and taking care of yourself.
Life does not end after divorce, nor does it have to plunge into stress, loneliness, and despair. Take it from Falusi—twelve years later, she’s still going strong. While she remains willing to entertain the possibility of a new serious relationship, she’s quite happy as she is—self-reliant, successful, and fulfilled!
Celebrated Author - Methany Thornton
March 29th, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
I Just Want To Be Her: A Memoir of Life, Lessons, and Longing
In I Want to Be Her: A Memoir of Life, Lessons, and Longing, Methany Thornton invites you into a rich tapestry of humor, heartache, and hope. Through raw honesty and unflinching self-reflection, she shares the story of a life marked by resilience, faith, and transformation. From raising her grandchildren—each a living reminder of life’s unexpected joys and challenges—to uncovering the truth about her biological father, Methany’s journey is as complex as it is inspiring. Whether navigating family chaos, laughing through the absurdity of everyday life, or wrestling with her insecurities, Methany writes with warmth, wit, and authenticity.
Celebrated Author - LaTisha Corley
March 30th, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Surviving Your First Year As A Childcare Boss
Gain essential knowledge and guidance for your first year as a childcare boss with this comprehensive guide, tailored for prospective directors and owners.
Celebrated Authors - Autumn Kendall & Aurora Morgan
March 8th, 2025 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Teenagers Aurora Morgan and Autumn Kendall author signing celebration is for their children’s book that sheds light on historical events, featuring characters inspired by civil rights leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Chairman Fred Hampton.
The author signing event will feature live readings of selected excerpts, engaging conversations, and opportunities for attendees to meet the authors and purchase signed copies of their book.
Celebrated Author - Margaret Jenkins McCants
February 22nd, 2025 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Get ready to dance and groove at this author signing celebration. This book is a must-read for all music lovers, bringing together a celebration of the diverse and enchanting world of music. Writing through her challenging journey with cancer, Margaret chose to give a tribute to the incredible impact and influence that music has on our lives, and showcases a testament to its enduring power to inspire and uplift us.
Through engaging conversations, live readings of selected excerpts, and opportunities to connect with the author, this book signing event is a chance for readers to delve deeper into the magic of music and its profound impact on society.
Whether you have listened to or danced to a variety of music from all around the world, or simply want to discover new songs and artists, this book and celebration will take you on a journey through memory lane, filled with nostalgic tunes and boundless joy.
Celebrated Author - Melanie Collins
May 2025 - Date TBD
Stuffing My Bra tells the relatable Gen-X coming-of-age story of a woman who navigates the precarious societal constructs of womanhood, only to find herself faced with deconstructing them to save her own life. The author bares it all as she recounts her harrowing and deeply personal journey to sidestep breast cancer, and the challenges and choices that made her a survivor.
Melanie resides in Milton, Georgia with her British expat husband, their three boys, a German Shepherd, and four cats. She plans to continue writing and painting, and eventually open a cat café and coworking space supporting animal shelters and spay/neuter programs.