The Perfect Wedding Gift

Wondering what gift to give to the bride and groom? Well, wonder no more. Check out the trailer for these two best-selling romance books by Sydney Arrison and place your order now on Amazon and other retail book stores.

A Resource for Honeymooners - A Nature Lovers' Paradise: Five Amazing Honeymoon Destinations by Amy Bozzo

For more information on the top places to go on your honeymoon, please go to https://www.voyagers.travel/galapagoscruise-travelblog/five-amazing-honeymoon-destinations/

Featuring Two ‘Til Midnight: A Novel by Bernard L. Dillard

At the center of a fierce, fiery, and invisible battle is Dr. Garnet Gibbs, a history professor, who is considered to be both a guidepost for and a mystery to many on the job. After hours, she often finds herself caught in a vortex of drama surrounding her family, associates, and friends.

Although she tries to offer support as best she can, the shenanigans of all involved may prove to be too much for her, especially given the potpourri of players in her world, including: Jamay, her adopted daughter; R.J., her grandson, whose father is facing challenges as he serves overseas; Kemal and Manuela, a kinky church couple; Tario, a Que Dog, whose frivolity and wry wit lead to his nail-biting confrontation with death, igniting a spirited rally in the city.

Then there’s Nieko, a gay gentleman, who is rethinking his sexuality but whose ex-boyfriend is making it tough; Rusty, an avowed redneck, who makes a shocking decision since he believes President Trump is taking too long to do something about the current state of affairs; and Celeste, her what-comes-up-comes-out co-worker, who has a knack for catching people off guard with her uncanny sense of humor. Critical interactions reveal key life lessons, but not all interchanges end on an upswing.

Set in modern times, Two ’Til Midnight is a soap-operatic dramedy that presents two distinct and separate worlds that thrive together, both influencing the other in their own unique way. Ultimately, their coexistence produces a jaw-dropping ending that no one sees coming.

Something’s brewing. Someone’s watching. And time is running out! Midnight is fast approaching. What will go down when the clock strikes twelve?!

(Recommended reading for ages 18+ and includes discussion questions at the end for reading groups and book clubs)

Listen to a reading from Two ‘Til Midnight by clicking here. 

Purchase Link: Amazon

Purchase from the Author before May 31 and Win Amazon Gift Card by clicking here.

Watch the Cinematic Book Trailer

Two 'Til Midnight: A Novel from BL Dillard on Vimeo.

Book Reviews of Two ‘Til Midnight:

“It’s a cosmic battle royale…Resonates like a live wire…Delivers a stunning conclusion that will leave you pondering long after you’ve turned the last page. Five-plus stars to Two ’Til Midnight.” Publishers Daily Reviews

“In Two ’Til Midnight, author Bernard L. Dillard does an amazing job of storytelling while integrating several of today’s hard-to-discuss topics...This book is not for the faint of heart.” San Francisco Book Review

“Dillard skillfully weaves each character’s part into the plot…[He] has done an exceptional job creating a novel that will be enjoyed…This is highly recommended reading.” Reader Views

“Readers who stick with the myriad of characters and [the] blend of supernatural influences, daily life challenges, and confrontations between [two] worlds will find Two ’Til Midnight an engrossing, multifaceted story.” Midwest Book Review

Excerpt:

“I don’t know. It just seemed wrong to me. I knew Schmidt wasn’t all there sometimes, but I never thought it would come to this.”

“Well, honey, I’m glad you spoke up. That wasn’t right.” She adjusted her nightgown and took one last look at the bathroom mirror before turning in. “You did the right thing.”

George was hesitant to accept her praise. “I hope so. It just didn’t feel like me. It was like I wasn’t myself. It’s hard to explain. At the moment, I just felt like I had to step in and say something. Honestly, Schmidt didn’t seem like himself. Something had to be controlling him. If I hadn’t said anything, I really think he woulda shot the kid.”

“Things were going that bad?”

“Only because Schmidt kept pushing the issue. And the way he looked at me when I told him that was enough. He just had a different face.” He spooned her and placed his arm around her stomach. His breath was a little tart, but she had gotten used to it.

“Imagine if you hadn’t spoken up and said anything. It might be a different story on the television. It may have been one of those stories again. Another one shot dead where the cop claims that he felt threatened.”

“It’s just not right, baby. I’ve seen all kinds of stuff on the beat. I feel sort of in a bubble because I know the violence will never probably happen to me and probably not you either since we’re both lily white.”

She laughed.

He continued. “It just bothers me that things are the way they are now. White cops can pretty much get away with whatever they want. You should hear some of the conversations in the precinct, how the guys talk among themselves about minorities. I’ve even seen Schmidt put up a poster that had a black face with a target on it and a picture of the white cop using it as target practice. Sick.”

“Wow.”

“My gut feeling is that things aren’t gone change until white people start speaking up against it. Sad to say, but seems like it’s true. Seems like the more they protest in the streets, the less stuff gets resolved. I’m not saying we gotta be the ‘Great White Hopes,’ but we gotta make sure our voices are heard right along with theirs.”

“I’d say you made your voice heard loud and clear last night. I’m proud of you, dear.”

“Well, at least that makes one who is. But I’m definitely on the Schmidt Sh** List. I really caught him off guard. He chewed me out when we got back to the precinct, asking me whose side I was on. ‘Right. The side of right,’ was what I told him. He didn’t like that and told me I’d learn soon enough but to never challenge him like that ever again.”

Out of the blue, Nan asked, “So where do Asians and Hispanics fall in this drama?”

“Dunno. There don’t seem to be huge numbers of killings involving Asians or Hispanics. Just seems to be a thing with African-Americans. Just seem to be a lot of tension between whites and Blacks. I’m sure it still has something to do with slavery. I’m sure America is still rather proud of that.”

“Oh, George. Everybody knows slavery was bad.”

“Yeah, but when it’s time to talk about some of the kickback and consequences from slavery, not everyone is willing to talk about. White people seem the most uncomfortable when race matters are addressed. Like people are blaming and accusing them today of it. No one is accusing us of anything, but it would be nice if we could understand our part in helping black people get their footing, economically or otherwise. Nobody’s talkin’ about giving them forty acres and a mule, but we can start with basic treatment with human dignity. There’s a good starting point.”

“So what advice would you give a mother who has to raise a black son in these turbulent times?” She could tell he was getting sleepy, even though he was talking logically.

“Yeah, I’d tell her to make her son pull his pants up and stop wearing hoodies. They need to put on a suit and tie every day and wear glasses, I guess. Walking through these streets in America looking like a bookworm may do the trick and make them look less of a threat. I really think that would work. A suit and glasses.”

Nan chuckled a bit and turned to him face to face and dropped a bombshell on him. “So I guess you’ve never heard of anyone named Malcolm X, huh?”

“Oh yeah, that’s right.”

It was too complicated to solve tonight. All they could do was simply revel in the small victory that had been attained last night. Maybe preventing a possible homicide of another black guy with promise at the hand of an overzealous cop was all that was needed for the moment, for the present, for the here and now.   

(Continued...)

© 2019 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Bernard L. Dillard. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

About The Author

Bernard L. Dillard

Bernard L. Dillard is an associate professor at Fashion Institute of Technology in NewYork City. He graduated from Morehouse College with a bachelor’s degree in English. The author of two textbooks, he is more known for his book, Lemonade: Inspired by Actual Events, which won first place in Dan Poynter’s Global Ebook Award (2013) in the memoir category. 

He is also the author of Two 'Til Midnight, this controversial novel is a soap-operatic dramedy, whereby the author tackles sensitive material against the backdrop of a Trumpian society. Select topics include race, diversity, tolerance, terrorism, sexuality, and faith.

Bernard L. Dillard has enjoyed a few acting stints (“The Wire” and “West Wing”) and several modeling assignments (Sean John). He is available for media interviews and can be reached via email. More information can be found on his website.  

21 BRIDGES Official Trailer (2019)

A disgraced detective in the NYPD is given a shot at redemption, starring Chadwick Boseman, J.K Simmons, and Keith David. Produced by Anthony & Joe Russo (Avengers: End Game)

How To Become A Full-Time Filmmaker - Mark Harris

Recognize When a Relationship is Over Before it Begins by Miss Know It All

Miss Know It All

You meet a man and it is love at first sight. You decide to date. After seeing this person for a couple of months, you believe everything is going terrific. You’re ready to jump into a committed relationship. Suddenly, he starts to complain. Paying his rent is a hardship. His car is constantly breaking down. He has been complaining from day one and hasn’t done anything to rectify the situation. And yet, you believe your relationship is peaches and cream because the lovemaking is magnificent. You are financially secured, have a great job, and own your own home.

Eventually, his grumbles will turn into actions, which may end up hurting you, financially. He will ask you to lend him money to pay his rent, which is six months overdue, and soon, he will want to move in with you.

When it comes to his worn-out vehicle, he’ll ask you to co-sign for a loan to purchase a new or used car. If you do, you will be taking on his debt. He may start the monthly payments, but that will soon end. He’ll complain that he can’t keep up with the car notes, or worse, he has lost his job, and you will be responsible for his debt. Before you know it, he has done a disappearing act, and your credit standing is now ruined.

The next time you meet someone who complains about not having sufficient funds to pay his rent and other bills, just walk away.

Dallas Dessert Super Feast - Coming on June 23, 2019

***EARLY BIRD SPECIALS***

Vendor & Sponsor Opportunities!!! 

JOIN THEM ON THIS SWEET ADVENTURE! 

You deserve a treat or two!

All Food Trucks are welcome to join!

Coming June 23, 2019

Sunday 1 pm-6 pm

SUNDAY@SKYLINE RANCH & EVENT CENTER

1801 E. WHEATLAND RD.

DALLAS, TEXAS 75241

 A family fun-filled dessert kind of day! Enjoy the presence of DESSERTS! DESSERTS! DESSERTS! EVERYWHERE!

#TASTE BUDS GONE WILD CONTEST

ENTER NOW!

PURCHASE YOUR VENDOR BOOTH

ENTER THE TASTE BUDS GONE WILD CONTEST

For more information, go to EVENT TICKETS

If interested in entering this contest, or becoming a Sponsor or Vendor, 

please email them at dallasdessertsuperfest@gmail.com

Featuring Book Blast Tour - Justice Gone by N. Lombardi Jr.

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. The author will be awarding a $15 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

When a homeless war veteran is beaten to death by the police, stormy protests ensue, engulfing a small New Jersey town. Soon after, three cops are gunned down.

A multi-state manhunt is underway for a cop killer on the loose. And Dr. Tessa Thorpe, a veteran's counselor, is caught up in the chase.

Donald Darfield, an African-American Iraqi war vet, war-time buddy of the beaten man, and one of Tessa's patients, is holed up in a mountain cabin. Tessa, acting on instinct, sets off to find him, but the swarm of law enforcement officers gets there first, leading to Darfield's dramatic capture.

Now, the only people separating him from the lethal needle of state justice are Tessa and ageing blind lawyer, Nathaniel Bodine. 

Can they untangle the web tightening around Darfield in time, when the press and the justice system are baying for revenge?

Read an Excerpt

In memory of Kelly Thomas, who was beaten to death by members of the Fullerton Police Department on July 5, 2011.

Bruntfield, New Jersey, just another banal town in a part of the country that nobody thinks about, was about to become famous; or rather, more aptly put, infamous. People sauntered past lackluster shops unaware that in a few days, the lackadaisical streets would bear the rabid frustrations that divided the nation; a pus-like bitterness that was held in check by the demands of everyday survival and the distractions offered by obsessive consumerism and brazen media.

Some would inevitably blame the cascade of events on the weather, since the origins could be found on a hot summer day in 2006. Sure, just about all summer days are hot, but this one was close to the record, and humid to boot. By the end of July, the Northeast coast was suffering under a sweltering heat wave. Despite the humidity, no one could remember the last time it had rained. A hundred-year drought was predicted, they’d said.

Bruntfield, among the many places under this curse, had its water supply so severely depressed that the city authorities were forced to impose water rationing. As if that wasn’t enough, the excessive load on air conditioners led to incessant brownouts. With the weather nothing less than insufferable, suffocating, oppressive, even provoking, tempers flared along with the temperature. But the local situation, as bad as it was, was about to get worse.


About the Author

N. Lombardi Jr, the N for Nicholas, has spent over half his life in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, working as a groundwater geologist. Nick can speak five languages: Swahili, Thai, Lao, Chinese, and Khmer (Cambodian).

In 1997, while visiting Lao People's Democratic Republic, he witnessed the remnants of a secret war that had been waged for nine years, among which were children wounded from leftover cluster bombs. Driven by what he saw, he worked on The Plain of Jars for the next eight years.


Nick maintains a website with content that spans most aspects of the novel: The Secret War, Laotian culture, Buddhism etc.: http://plainofjars.net

His second novel, Journey Towards a Falling Sun, is set in the wild frontier of northern Kenya. His latest novel, Justice Gone, was inspired by the fatal beating of a homeless man by police.

Nick now lives in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Visit his Goodreads Page

Buy links:

Amazon UK
Amazon US
Goodreads 
Barnes and Noble
Book Depository
Waterstones 
Kobo 

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Announcing Trinidad+Tobago 2019 Carifesta Edition

The Trinidad+Tobago Film Festival is pleased to announce that they will be partnering with CARIFESTA XIV to hold the Trinidad+Tobago Film Festival 2019 Carifesta Edition.

The annual Trinidad+Tobago Film, now in its fourteenth year, has become a mainstay of Trinidad and Tobago's cultural calendar and is well-established as the premiere film festival of the English-speaking Caribbean. This year's iteration of the festival, Trinidad+Tobago Film will be held in August – rather than September – to coincide with the largest regional celebration of culture in all its forms, CARIFESTA XIV. The film festival will run from 17–23 August, with free screenings at NAPA, APA, SAPA, Naparima Bowl and Shaw Park Cultural Complex.

Festival Director, Dr. Bruce Paddington, notes, "CARIFESTA is a time when the whole country is alive with culture and creativity – visitors come from all over the region and internationally too. The Trinidad+Tobago Film Festival is very excited to be able to partner with CARIFESTA XIV to bring the best Caribbean films into this important celebration of regional culture."

Call For Submissions to Trinidad+Tobago 2019 Carifesta Edition

The call for submissions is now open for filmmakers wishing to have their films screened at the fourteenth edition of the Trinidad+Tobago Film Festival, 2019 Carifesta Edition. The Festival takes place from 17–23 August 2019. The festival will include new shorts, and features, narrative films and documentaries from around the region and its Diaspora – which explore the Caribbean experience; the festival will also include classic films.  The Festival, therefore, accepts submissions from Caribbean filmmakers whether based in the region or the Diaspora, and international filmmakers with films from or about the Caribbean or its Diaspora. Submissions must have been produced after 01 January 2017. All submissions must be made via email to hello@ttfilmfestival.com.  The deadline for all submissions is 29 April 2019.

ttff/19 submissions