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Spirituality Behind True Love
Shilpa’s Blue Crayon follows a down-to-earth African American woman in her thirties who, while devoted to her art and deeply committed to those she holds dear, longs for the love of a husband and children she has never known. What inspired the setup of your story?
I wanted to write a love story that displayed lots of mystery and suspense that would include a surprise ending. Most love stories are extremely predictable and not always true to real life. I wanted to show the insecurities that many women have about their looks, careers, love life, etc. But I also wanted to show when it comes to those you love, most women would do whatever it takes to protect their family and friends with or without a man. That protecting those you care about comes first, even when your safety is at risk. Shilpa embodies many women that I know personally who are strong and successful even when they don’t realize it. And, I truly wanted the reader to take this roller coaster ride with Shilpa until she found love and family even when she wasn’t looking for it. Of course, I’m an African American woman myself, retired, and I’m able to provide the Black perspective of life’s challenges.
The supporting characters in this novel, I felt, were intriguing and well-developed. Who was your favorite character to write for?
My favorite characters are Jacob (Shilpa’s husband); and Winnie/Vida (Shilpa’s best friends) because they display their love, loyalty, and commitment even when hard truths have to be discussed. Jacob is in an interracial marriage with Shilpa and I wanted to show his love for his wife that transcends boundaries, cultures, and societies. How he truly loved his wife without condition, and how they were on the same page with raising their children. Jacob understood Shilpa’s insecurities and provided patience to help her work through them. He helped her find her strength. Winnie and Vida (from both worlds) are what best friends embody (loyalty, truth, compassion, kindness, trustworthiness, and honesty). I have life-long best friends like this so it was very easy to write about Winnie and Vida. The best way to do all this is for Shilpa to be trapped in two worlds until she found the truth about her life.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
What love should be between a man and woman and the spirituality behind true love; love of friendship; the beauty of this world with explanations of the color blue and its importance in our lives; racism, diversity, and multiculturalism; passing for white and what that means; money is not important unless you can use it to serve others; and gaining your power and strength when you need it most.
What is the next novel that you are working on and when will that be available?
My first book, published in March 2024, is called “Kevin and KatheRINe in the Next Lifetime.” I believe it to be a beautiful love story. Personal and professional reviews are amazing. This book displays CC Lane’s brand demonstrating the color blue, love and its spirituality, interracial relationships (black woman/white man), and all that comes with it. And of course, that surprise ending. However, the two books are very different.
I’m currently working on my third book called, Munyori and Johannas, in 72 hours. This book also keeps with the brand of interracial love, the color blue, and lots of surprises that keep your heart pounding. I’m hopeful this book will be published by the end of the year. No writer’s block – the storyline keeps coming. Just have to find the time to finish it.
I would also like to note that Kevin Costner, the actor, is mentioned briefly in all my books. My female friends and I absolutely love him – we are all about the same age as Costner. I’ve used the personality of many of the characters he plays in movies for the love interests. My friends noticed it as well.
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New novel delivers a thrilling romance that explores courage, love and multicultural themes
CHICAGO – From the author of “Kevin and KatheRINe in the Next Lifetime” comes another stirring romance novel that will take readers on a journey that transcends boundaries, races and cultures. In “Shilpa’s Blue Crayon” (published by Archway Publishing), author Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane invites readers to follow the life of Shilpa, a gifted African American artist whose unusual ocean-blue eyes set her apart in ways that both inspire and isolate her.
Shilpa’s story unfolds within two worlds — reality and the vivid world of make-believe. The novel masterfully intertwines romance, suspense, passion, and societal commentary as Shilpa navigates the complexities of her identity, the expectations placed on her, and the danger that threatens her loved ones. As readers turn each page, they will witness Shilpa’s transformation from a shy, self-conscious young woman into a resilient force of nature determined to protect those she loves. The book’s unexpected twists will keep them engage until the very end.
“Shilpa’s Blue Crayon” weaves rich, multicultural themes with gripping narratives. It is a story about strength, self-discovery, and the courage to embrace one’s unique qualities. A hallmark of Lane’s storytelling is her portrayal of true beauty that goes beyond physical appearance. “When considering a person’s value in this world, ‘looks’ should not be the most important factor,” the author explains. “Qualities like personality, character, intelligence, kindness, and integrity are far more significant in building meaningful relationships and determining someone’s worth as an individual. It is one’s values that are important.”
The novel also features a special foreword written by four-time Grammy winner Deniece Williams, whose insight adds a layer of depth and meaning to the narrative.
When asked what she wants readers to take away from “Shilpa’s Blue Crayon,” Lane says, “It’s true that strong Black women can be stereotyped and characterized by strength, self-reliance, and caretaking; and strong Black women are often depicted as women who are able to withstand difficult circumstances and provide for others without regard to their own needs. To a point, this is true, but like any woman, Black women want love, joy, and respect in their lives as well; and some want families with a loving husband. And to fight for that is ok too.”
“Shilpa’s Blue Crayon” is available now at Archway Publishing and other major online retailers.
“Shilpa’s Blue Crayon”
By Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane
Hardcover | 6 x 9in | 276 pages | ISBN 9781665766340
Softcover | 6 x 9in | 276 pages | ISBN 9781665766326
E-Book | 276 pages | ISBN 9781665766333
Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble
Shilpa’s Blue Crayon
Shilpa’s Blue Crayon is an enchanting and unpredictable romance, gracefully penned by Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane. With lyrical prose and a plot rich in emotional depth, this novel pulls readers into a journey that feels both intimate and otherworldly.
At the heart of the story is Shilpa, a down-to-earth African American woman in her thirties. Devoted to her art and deeply committed to those she holds dear, she lives a quiet, contented life in the picturesque and supportive community of “Little Village.” Though outwardly serene and composed, Shilpa carries a quiet ache, a melancholy tucked beneath the surface, an emotional weight she keeps hidden even from herself.
Everything begins to shift when vivid, almost hyper-realistic dreams begin to haunt her sleep. In them, Shilpa discovers a parallel life, one filled with love, a husband, and children she has never known. These dreams, compelling and intense, blur the lines between imagination and reality. As her longing for deeper connection grows, she finds herself straddling two distinct worlds: the tangible life she has built, and a dreamscape that offers everything her heart desires.
The narrative unfolds with a measured pace. Early chapters gently introduce readers to Shilpa’s current reality, a life filled with creativity, loyal friends, and a nurturing village atmosphere. The third-person narration allows for a sweeping view of her world, bringing her neighbors and community to life in vivid detail. There’s a warmth to this village, a place where kindness and familiarity are a given.
Then, without warning, the story pivots. A startling plot twist reveals that Shilpa is not merely dreaming, but entering a parallel universe each time she sleeps. In this alternate existence, she meets the love of her life and experiences the kind of family connection she’s always longed for. The romance is magnetic, bold, passionate, and impossible to ignore. As readers, we are swept alongside Shilpa into these dual realities, savoring the contrast between them.
More than a simple love story, Shilpa’s Blue Crayon is layered with complexity, emotion, and imagination. Lane blends romance with mystery and self-discovery, crafting a tale that is both heartfelt and unexpected. Wholesomeness pervades the narrative, mirroring Shilpa’s resilient and nurturing spirit.
Shilpa’s journey is not without hardship. As a Black woman navigating personal ambition and emotional vulnerability, she faces challenges, some rooted in societal prejudice, others born of her own self-doubt. Yet through it all, she rises. With grace and strength, she claims her right to live, love, and be loved, boldly, completely, and without apology.
This is a story that lingers. Poignant, surprising, and undeniably human, Shilpa’s Blue Crayon invites readers to explore not only parallel lives but the parallel selves we all carry within.
Pages: 276 | ASIN : B0D4267JRW
Musings of a Romance Addict
Musings of a Romance Addict, by Camille Dunhill, is a fictionalized diary of Stacey Donleigh’s search for love and her personal revelations along the way. Stacey’s narrative is candid and witty, starting with her cautious entry into online dating after the death of her long-term partner. Through a blend of humor and heartbreak, she shares her encounters, her vulnerability to romance scams, and her evolution as she reclaims her confidence in love.
Stacey’s account of being swept away by Christopher Logan was achingly relatable. Her initial excitement, the red flags she brushes off, and the eventual heartbreak are laid out with a rawness that tugs at your empathy. The sections detailing her awakening after realizing she was scammed were particularly impactful. She transitions from embarrassment and anger to a sense of empowerment, determined to use her diary as a tool for self-reflection and growth.
The writing style is engaging and incredibly sentimental. Stacey’s declarations of romantic ideals occasionally felt repetitive. It is worth noting that the detailed exchanges with Christopher added depth to their relationship. While I believe these could have been trimmed for better pacing, they effectively captured the intoxicating whirlwind of emotions she experienced. I found myself chuckling at her witty observations about online dating tropes, like the “too good to be true” profiles, yet simultaneously cringing at how easily trust can be exploited.
The book’s strongest moments were in its introspective passages. Stacey’s musings on what love means to her, shaped by loss and loneliness, resonated deeply. Her character grows from someone who feels adrift to a woman who reclaims her agency and refuses to settle. I particularly admired how the story shifted in tone, reflecting her transformation—moving from a dreamy, romantic haze to a grounded determination to find joy on her terms.
Musings of a Romance Addict is an enjoyable and heartfelt read that will resonate with anyone who has loved, lost, or ventured into the often-absurd world of online dating. It’s a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and the ability to laugh at oneself, even in the face of heartbreak. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy romance novels with a twist of humor and introspection or to anyone navigating the modern dating landscape.
Pages: 404 | ASIN : B0DHYJGYKT
Pleasure to Purpose: Based on the True Story of Sex Worker Scarlett Pereira
Pleasure to Purpose by Elizabeth B. Splaine, narrates the compelling, gritty, and deeply personal story of Scarlett Pereira, a sex worker whose journey intertwines struggles, empowerment, and a complex exploration of identity and humanity. Drawing from Scarlett’s real-life experiences, the book delves into her professional and personal life, including her nuanced relationships, encounters with clients, and moments of introspection. The narrative also includes Scarlett’s connection to her “heart horse,” Franco, symbolizing healing and transformation amid chaos.
Splaine’s writing is engaging, and the vivid portrayal of Scarlett’s experiences struck a chord with me. One striking scene involves Scarlett managing a client’s health crisis during a session. Her quick thinking juxtaposed with her colleague Steph’s indifference highlights Scarlett’s deep sense of humanity and professionalism, even in precarious circumstances. The storytelling effectively balances raw, unflinching honesty with moments of vulnerability, making Scarlett a relatable and multifaceted protagonist. Some chapters delve into explicit details that, while integral to the narrative, might not resonate with all readers.
What I appreciated most was the blend of resilience and self-reflection throughout Scarlett’s story. Her decision to rescue Franco, despite her challenging financial and personal circumstances, was both heartwarming and symbolic. The connection between Scarlett and Franco serves as a metaphor for rediscovering purpose and hope. The descriptions of Franco’s initial wariness and eventual trust mirrored Scarlett’s own journey, forging a poignant parallel between human and animal recovery.
It is worth noting that the transitions between Scarlett’s professional encounters and personal life are sometimes sudden, particularly when the emotional depth of her introspection shifts abruptly into transactional interactions. I believe these contrasts, while reflective of Scarlett’s dual existence, occasionally disrupted the story’s flow. Nonetheless, the depth of her character and her eventual pivot toward advocacy and self-reliance redeemed any narrative inconsistencies.
Pleasure to Purpose is a gripping and courageous exploration of an often-stigmatized profession, offering insights into resilience, empathy, and personal growth. It’s a perfect read for those who enjoy character-driven stories with a mix of realism and redemption. I would recommend it to readers looking for a raw, thought-provoking tale that doesn’t shy away from life’s complexities. Potential readers should be aware of its explicit content and heavy themes.
Pages: 287 | ASIN : B0DHLFXRMF
Complexities of Mental and Emotional Healing
Fragments of Hope: Emptying Pandora’s Box follows a shattered woman who divorces her abusive husband and sets out on a journey of self-discovery and personal empowerment. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Fragments of Hope was born out of my desire to highlight the inner journey of women who escape abusive relationships. The protagonist, Pandora, embarks on a path to rediscover herself, which is deeply inspired by the struggles many women face after leaving behind a controlling partner. I wanted to capture that emotional and psychological process of reclaiming one’s identity and learning to live on her own terms.
What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?
Pandora’s character is shaped by themes of personal empowerment and self-discovery. I wanted to explore how deeply rooted beliefs — like the ones gaslit into her by her husband — affect her sense of worth and her ability to trust herself. Throughout the story, she grows into a woman who learns to stand firm in her power and heal from the emotional scars left behind.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The book delves into the complexities of mental and emotional healing, empowerment after trauma, and the rediscovery of hope. Themes of motherhood, resilience, and the importance of community and support also weave through Pandora’s journey as she navigates life after an abusive relationship.
When will book two be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
I’m currently working on the sequel, which I expect to release in mid-2025. In book two, Pandora will continue her journey toward healing, but this time, she will face new challenges in maintaining her independence while embracing new relationships and opportunities for personal growth. The story will delve deeper into her evolving identity as a strong, self-reliant woman. You may find a teaser for book 2 in mypodcast Tangled Threads.
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“Fragments of Hope” is a gripping tale of resilience and self-discovery. Pandora is trapped in a toxic marriage with David, a man who drags her into the dark world of BDSM gatherings, leaving her emotionally and mentally shattered. Her once vibrant spirit is now a collection of fragments, barely holding together under the weight of her husband’s control and the oppressive environment he thrives in.
As Pandora reaches her breaking point, she makes a courageous decision to escape the clutches of her destructive relationship. This book chronicles her journey through the tumultuous process of divorce and the challenging path to rebuild her life. Drawing on common sense, psychology, and a newfound understanding of her own values, Pandora learns to discern what is real and meaningful.
“Fragments of Hope” is not just a story of escape, but a narrative of empowerment. It’s about rejecting the passive acceptance of whatever life—or the men in it—throws your way, and instead, taking active steps to create a life aligned with your true values. Through her trials, Pandora emerges stronger, piecing together the fragments of her shattered existence into a mosaic of hope and strength.
Real-Life, Superstition, & Myth
Finding Tiegan follows a widow on a journey of Self-Discovery who makes a trip to Portugal, where she meets a man with whom she feels an unexplainable connection. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I traveled to the Algarve region in Portugal and stayed in the little town of Carvoeiro, the setting of Tiegan and Tómas’s tale. Before arriving in Portugal I extensively researched the area, and had already sourced out, via Airbnb, the apartment Tiegan would rent for her three month stay. I wanted something that captured the essence of the region, and the Moorish-style building overlooking the sea was perfect. The Algarve’s stunning coastline, the friendly people, and wonderful food is something to write about.
I enjoyed the romantic relationship between Tiegan and Tomás. How did their relationship develop while you were writing it? Did you have an idea of where you wanted to take it or was it organic?
Tiegan and Tomás’s relationship naturally evolved as the story unfolded. The places I visited became crucial settings and scenes, while the voices and experiences of the people I met along the way deeply influenced the development of both characters. This blend of real-life encounters with a strong dose of superstition and myth added depth to the narrative.
This story is more than just a fast-moving romance. You bring to light different topics in the story that enhance it. What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
I immersed myself in the mythology and folklore of Portugal, particularly the Roma people. My inspiration blossomed, inspired by their beliefs and superstition. Tomás’s character was crafted from those beliefs, and the story line evolved from there. Cape Breton, where Tiegan was from, boasts rich Celtic folklore, which ties in wonderfully with Tomás’s character.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m currently tidying up the final edits of my second novel and at present have not signed with a publisher.
“Beyond the Faerie Rath,” the first installment in a magical Ireland trilogy, uncovers the ancient world of the Tuatha Dé through the eyes of the O’Donnell clan, and the three main characters, Ríaghain, Nemain and Macha. The story follows Calla Sweet (Ríaghain) as she begins a new life in a distant land. Her gift of foreseeing death has impacted her life and inheriting a property far from her past offers a fresh start. Meeting Colm O’Donnell awakens both her desires and fears as her visions and encounters with the unseen lead her to question her sanity. Unbeknownst to her, her arrival was orchestrated by her biological father, Finvarra, the King of the Faeries. Colm, enchanted by Calla, finds himself drawn to her mysterious aura and becomes entangled in a web of magical intrigue and danger as he seeks to protect her from a relentless pursuer intent on proving the existence of immortals.
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Finding Tiegan
Hanna Park’s Finding Tiegan skillfully weaves a tapestry of romance, mystery, and the intriguing concept of fate. The protagonist, Tiegan Moss, embarks on a transformative journey following the loss of her husband and the end of a significant relationship. Her decision to spend three months in a quaint Portuguese town, indulging in local cuisine, picturesque scenery, and nurturing her artistic talents, marks the beginning of her healing process. Upon arriving in Portugal, Tiegan encounters Tomás Ferreira, igniting a profound and unexplainable connection. Despite the undeniable attraction and a shared magnetic pull, Tomás’s enigmatic past and inner turmoil present obstacles to their budding relationship. Park explores themes of love, destiny, and the pursuit of truth as Tiegan and Tomás navigate their complex feelings for each other.
Tiegan’s character is portrayed with resilience and fearlessness, willingly confronting challenges that contribute to her personal growth. Her unwavering determination to explore the depths of her connection with Tomás, despite his intimidating aura, adds layers to her character. Tomás, contrastingly, is depicted as a character grappling with his troubled past, leading to a self-imposed restraint that complicates their relationship. The rapid progression of their romance, underpinned by the notion of destiny, offers an interesting perspective on the concept of soulmates. The narrative unfolds through alternating perspectives, allowing readers an intimate glimpse into the protagonists’ internal conflicts and emotions. As the story progresses, supernatural elements emerge, intertwining with a mysterious prophecy that hints at a deeper connection between Tiegan and Tomás. This blend of romance with paranormal aspects adds a compelling twist to the plot.
Finding Tiegan is a riveting novel that captivates readers with its blend of romance, suspense, and paranormal elements. Park masterfully balances the themes of overcoming dark pasts and embracing life, creating an engaging and thought-provoking narrative. Lovers of romance, especially those who appreciate a mix of eroticism, plot twists, and paranormal intrigue, will find this novel compelling.
Pages: 294 | ASIN : B098PHTW8D
Desperate for Love
Breaking Through To You follows a twenty-three-year-old woman who, after being stood up, meets a man who helps her onto a road of self-discovery and finding what she truly wants in a relationship. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I wanted to write a story about a girl desperate for love and a boy desperately trying to avoid it, and then have them meet. Thus Breaking Through To You was born.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I never outline or plan. I come up with a scene and let the story unravel as I go.
Your characters are wonderfully emotive and relatable. Were you able to use anything from your own life to inform their character development?
Bits and pieces of their lives are similar to the lives of the people I know and love. I’m an observant person, and I always pay attention to details when it comes to conversations and personalities. Much of what I write is based off of that.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I have a few in the works. As Far As We Knew will be available February 14, 2024. The Stowaway: Series will be available March 17, 2024. Meeting You will be available April 23, 2024 (which also happens to be my birthday)! I’m also working on a sequel for Breaking Through To You which I hope to have released by November 2024.
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As Ophelia finds herself at a fancy restaurant in Los Angeles for the blind date, she quickly realizes she’s been stood up. Battling a mix of disappointment and self-pity, she decides to drown her sorrows in the most lavish steak on the menu.
Just when she’s resigned to her evening, her attention is seized by a charming waiter named Treyton Spencer. Their connection is instantaneous, but she won’t dwell on it too much, she’s done with dating.
But fate has different plans. Their friendship ignites and it takes her by surprise, quickly evolving into a head-over-heels romance. But as her luck would have it, Treyton doesn’t believe in girlfriends.
Despite challenges in her love life, Ophelia begins dating Henry, the man that stood her up, which causes a strain in her friendship with Treyton. Yet as time goes on, their bond deepens, and it becomes evident that they’re meant to weather any storm side by side.
Ophelia and Treyton navigate the highs and lows that life has thrown at them. As they find strength in their shared experiences and develop an unbreakable bond realizing true love will always find a way to bloom.
LITERARY TITAN 