Sweet Tea Chat with Brian W. Smith

 Sweet Tea Chat

Fabulous Southern Belle is excited to feature the talented, award-winning, bestselling, the-hustle-don’t-stop Southern gentleman (by way of Naw’lins) Brian W. Smith! 

Award-winning, bestselling author, Brian W. Smith

Brian’s career was born from a real-life experience. In 2004, he endured a personal trauma that inspired him to write and publish his critically acclaimed, semi-autobiographical novel, Mama’s Lies—Daddy’s Pain, in 2006. Brian is now the author of fourteen novels to include: DEADBEAT, Nina’s Got a Secret, and If These Trees Could Talk. His novels have earned spots on the Dallas Morning News, Amazon, and Black Expressions Bestsellers lists. He has been awarded the Male Author of the Year by several organizations (AALBC and OOSA Reviewers to name a few), and is the co-host of the popular literary radio show, The Bookends. On August 25, Brian will be release two books on the same day—his 15th contemporary novel, QUAGMIRE, and his second mystery novel, A Murder in the Quarters: A Sleepy Carter Mystery.

This Southern girl is twirling her lace parasol with excitement as I sit down to share a cool glass of extra sweet tea (the sweeter the better!) with Brian while we chat …Southern style.

Q. The thing I find most interesting about the South is…

A. there are thousands of people who refuse to admit that the south lost the Civil War. They fly the Confederate Flag (on their porches, car bumpers, etc.) with a level of passion that makes a black father (like myself) concerned and uneasy whenever my sons leave the house. And although I know that's the "flag waver's" intent (to remind black folk that we're being tolerated not accepted), it still makes me fearful for my kids.

Q. The trademark of a Southern Gentleman is…

A. Many of us can cook...and enjoy it.

Q. Po’boy or gumbo…

A. You know I was born and raised in New Orleans so this is a question I take VERY serious. I'll take the Po'Boy sandwich...if it's on real French Bread - not some whack bun. A lot of people try to cook gumbo, but not everyone can MAKE gumbo. If the roux is too light, the gumbo ain't right.

Q. I’m meticulous about…

A. Manners. I drill my sons about practicing good manners. I can't stand people who don't say "thank you" when you do something kind for them or "excuse me" when they bump into you.

Q. I get excited when…

A. my sons accomplish anything they set out to achieve.

Q. _______ is overrated…

A. Networking is overrated. The cliques in the adult world are more prevalent and discriminating than the ones teenagers in high school gravitate to. As a result, I'm convinced it's not the quantity of people you know, it's the quality. I know several people with thousands of "friends" who spent months unemployed and begging all those "friends" for job leads only to get little to no assistance.

Q. The last meal I cooked was (’cause men cook, too!)…

A. Spaghetti w/Italian Sausage; garlic bread; and a Spinach salad...I from the N.O. baby, I can cook better than most women. From Collard greens to gumbo to red beans and rice...I'm a beast in the kitchen. 

Q. The most challenging thing about writing is…

A. Remaining committed to being a writer when you don't feel your best efforts are producing a noticeable Return on Investment.

Q. I expanded my writing into mystery because…

A. I wanted to expand my fan base. Relying solely on black readers to support your writing career will have a brotha standing on the side of the road holding a sign that says, "I'll write for food." It's no secret that more white readers read Mystery than blacks. And since I've always been a mystery fanatic and many of my contemporary novels have a lot of plot twists, expanding into the mystery genre was a natural fit.

Q. After readers turn the last page of one of my books I hope they…

A. Feel like they didn't waste their money.

  

Brian, thanks again for stopping by and hanging out with me below the Mason Dixon line! I wish you much success on your two upcoming releases! Readers, please check out Brian's work by CLICKING HERE! You can connect with Brian on Facebook, Twitter,and Instagram.

Until Nex time, stay Fabulous!

 

I'm On An Author High!...

Advanced Uncorrected Proof for SECRET INDISCRETIONS. Click here to pre-order your copy today!

Woooohooooo!!! I'm so over the top excited that I can barely stand it! What a great feeling it was when I found this box of books outside my front door. After you've spent hours, days, and months sitting at a computer, writing your heart out, it's a great feeling to see the end product. Well, this isn't the actual end product--these are advanced uncorrected proofs that will be sent to reviewers and used as promotional give-a-ways for some upcoming contests--but it's still beautiful! Hard work and big dreams pay off!

SECRET INDISCRETIONS:
Two couples, two unhappy spouses--one shocking solution. . .

Five years into her happy marriage, Geneva Mayfield is devastated to find that things have taken a turn for the worse. Her husband, Johnny, is suddenly hard to reach, distant, and works late too often for Geneva not to be suspicious. Is it because she's been pressuring him about having a baby? Feeling lonely and neglected, Geneva bonds with Samuel Owens, a new friend who is having marital trouble of his own. Soon, their relationship blossoms into an uncontrollable affair.

Bored with her husband, Samuel, and dead set against having a child with him, Vivana Owens is biding her time until she's ready to leave--and she's spending it with Johnny Mayfield. It's just a fling--until Vivana becomes obsessed with Johnny, especially once he tries to win back his wife. But affairs don't end easy--and soon one of the unfaithfuls will end up dead, one will end up in jail, and one just might get away with murder. . .

Click here to pre-order your copy today! 

Good Food + Good Book = Fabulous

One thing about Southerners is that we love good food! A delicious meal feeds the soul, and just as we need nourishment for our body, we also need it for our mind. Reading a good book feeds the soul. I love savoring a good meal and capping it off with a good book. With winter winding down (come on springtime!) I wanted to share two of my favorite things--food and books.

Here's a quick and easy recipe for delicious Southwest Chicken Soup, and information about a good book (which happens to be my upcoming novel) Secret Indiscretions. I hope you will enjoy both!

Southwest Chicken Soup

Ingredients:
1 tsp. olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, finely minced
2 cans chicken broth
Frozen or fresh corn
1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
1 can whole tomatoes
1 can diced tomatoes w/green chiles
2-3 cups shredded chicken 

Heat one tsp. olive oil in a pot. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Saute until translucent (2-3 minutes). Add next 6 ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and cook for 20 minutes. Garnish with cheese, cilantro, and tortilla strips. Delicious!

Secret Indiscretions
Coming July 28, 2015- Click here to pre-order

Two couples, two unhappy spouses--one shocking solution. . .

Five years into her happy marriage, Geneva Mayfield is devastated to find that things have taken a turn for the worse. Her husband, Johnny, is suddenly hard to reach, distant, and works late too often for Geneva not to be suspicious. Is it because she's been pressuring him about having a baby? Feeling lonely and neglected, Geneva bonds with Samuel Owens, a colleague who is having marital trouble of his own. Soon, their relationship blossoms into an uncontrollable affair.

Bored with her husband, Samuel, and dead set against having a child with him, Vivana Owens is biding her time until she's ready to leave--and she's spending it with Johnny Mayfield. It's just a fling--until Vivana becomes obsessed with Johnny, especially once he tries to win back his wife. But affairs don't end easy--and soon one of the unfaithfuls will end up dead, one will end up in jail, and one just might get away with murder. . .

Happy Eating and Happy Reading...Stay Fabulous!
Trice Hickman

Goal Setting Tips for the New Year!

Happy New Year!

 

 

It's the beginning of the year! A fresh new start! This is the time of year when most people make resolutions. But oftentimes, resolutions don't last. A January 2013 article in Forbes Magazine states that a University of Scranton research study found that only 8% of Americans keep their New Year's resolutions. Instead of making resolutions I set goals, and I set them based upon what I believe is attainable and sustainable.

A Southern Belle must make sure she's on top of things, and she's always looking for ways to improve her life while making things better around her. A sure way to do that is to set goals. Here are a few tips that can help you set and achieve your goals for 2015 and beyond!

1. Be realistic-- It's okay to dream, and in fact, you should. But dream with your head in the clouds (for creativity and inspiration) and your feet on the ground (to steady yourself so you stay focused).
2. Define Outcomes-- Be specific about what kind of outcome or impact you want to achieve. Will accomplishing your goal(s) result in increased income, weight loss, job/career advancement, improved health, etc.? Knowing this will help you manage your priorities.
3. Create a timetable-- Never mistake activity for achievement. You can be busy doing a whole lot of nothing! Establish a timetable by which you would like to achieve your goal(s). This will keep you on schedule and help you become more efficient.
4. Develop a budget-- Whether your goal(s) will require out of pocket expenses or your time/human capital, it's an expenditure, and you need to account for it.
5. Delegate-- Ask for help! You don't have to do everything yourself. Work hard on the things that are within your control and delegate tasks to others who can assist you in reaching your goal(s).

Abundant Blessings for a Fabulous New Year!

 Trice Hickman

My Holiday Video Message from Me to You

Wishing you a fabulous holiday and a spectacular New Year!!

Be Fabulous!

Tips for A Relaxing Holiday Season

Southerners are known for doing everything on a large scale, especially the holidays. We're talking turkey with all the trimmings, Christmas trees (several theme trees throughout the house is a must...and don't forget the front yard, too!), holiday feasts, shopping, caroling, family gatherings, and parties galore.

But as much fun as this festive season can be, it can also bring on stress, depression, and exhaustion. Even under the best of circumstances, the last six weeks of the year can cause major anxiety. But it doesn't have to! There's a number of things you can do to create peace, joy, and relaxation.

Here are a few ways to enjoy the holidays and keep your stress to a minimum.

Pray/Meditate-- This is an excellent way to center yourself, connect to a higher power, and gain a sense of peace. It doesn't cost a dime to pray, but you may pay for it if you don't.
Ask for help-- Don't try to do everything yourself. This is the season of giving, but it's also great to receive. If you're blessed to have friends and family who want to help you, bless them by receiving the blessing they want to extend to you.
Exercise-- It's estimated that most people gain 5 lbs. during the holidays. Food, parties, and late night eating can expand the waistline. Exercise can help take the pounds off and it can also help to clear the mind and relieve stress.
Massage-- Stress, along with cramming lots of activities into long days, can cause tight muscles, which can lead to pain, headaches, and poor health. Massage is a proven way to relieve pain and stress, and it's incredibly soothing. Treat yourself to the good life and get a nice, long rub down!
Laugh-- Laughter is medicine for the sole! A good laugh can erase even the worst of moods and can increase endorphins, giving you more energy to enjoy the holidays.
Love from a distance-- Let's face it, there are people who create stress in our lives, and some of them can be people we love. If you encounter an obstacle or problem, the first thing you try to do is remove it. Sometimes you have to take that approach with people, too. Sometimes you have to learn how to love from a distance. Surround yourself with positive people and positive things that will keep stress at bay.
Take Vitamins-- Some people take vitamins to boost energy, while others use them to replenish specific nutrients they're missing from their diet, or, as a result of a health condition. There's also vitamins that help relieve stress. Talk to your doctor, local pharmacist, or naturopath to find vitamins that will work for you. Valerian is a great, natural herb that I love. You can take the capsule whole, or break it open and make a tea. It calms, soothes, and relaxes.

 

Remember, the holiday season only comes once a year, so try to enjoy it! Life is meant to be savored slowly and enjoyed in abundance. From me to you, I wish you and yours a happy Thanksgiving!

PS--Stay tuned for my "Southern Tips for A Relaxing Holiday Season"which will be filled with hilarious things that only Southerners do!

Be Fabulous!
Trice

Baby, It's Cold Outside...and it's all about the scarf!

...I really can't stay - Baby it's cold outside
I've got to go away - Baby it's cold outside
This evening has been - Been hoping that you'd drop in
So very nice - I'll hold your hands, they're just like ice

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--2Mwp7X-X0&list=RD--2Mwp7X-X0


Dean Martin's duet with Doris Day of, Baby It's Cold Outside is classic! I absolutely LOVE that song, not only during the holidays, but also during the year, and especially on days like this one.


Across the country, and especially in the Midwest and east coast, it's downright frigid outside.The bitter cold combined with biting winds make for an Arctic-like experience. Winter is a time to hunker down with comfort food and heavy apparel. But that doesn't mean it has to be hum-drum--beef stew and flannel. Winter can mean fine dining (put some wine in that stew for a zip of flavor) and you don't have to limit yourself to frumpy clothing. This season is prime time for fashion--fierce boots, stylish coats, elegant gloves, and oh-so-fly hats! I love it!


When you go out, make sure you layer up with thermal underwear, cotton tees, or anything else that's going to keep you warm under your clothes. Then accessorize your outer layer with warm and beautiful pieces that will keep you smiling through the cold. This season is all about the scarf! I adore a beautiful scarf. It's the perfect accompaniment for any outfit at any season. During the winter when the mood can be bleak, brighten things up with a pop of color around your neck. It will instantly turn a cloudy day to sunshine. Here, I'm wearing a red infinity scarf, perfect for the holiday season. It's made of soft wool with a beautifully woven design pattern. I picked it up at a flea market in Baltimore, MD; proof that you can find fashion on a budget! You can also find infinity scarves at your local department store (they are everywhere).

Bundle up and be fabulous!!
Blessings
Trice

Wine, Popcorn, and a Movie

I haven't posted here in quite some time because I was under deadline for my 7th novel titled, Secret Indiscretions, which will be released July 28, 2015!

I'm so excited to be out of my writing cave, you have no idea! When I pressed send and submitted my manuscript to my editor, I literally jumped for joy, and then proceeded to take a long nap. It feels fantastic to have completed another novel! And although I have another deadline looming for book #8, I'm going to take a little time to relax (just a little) while gearing up for the next project.

I'm enjoying this brief reprieve and I'll be doing things I enjoy; cooking and baking, hanging with friends, watching movies, reading good books, and of course, shopping! Last weekend I treated myself to a long bubble bath by candlelight, and then I nestled under my comfy chenille throw with popcorn and wine while I watched, The Devil Wears Prada. That movie had me in stitches!! I enjoyed myself (I'm great company, if I do say so!) It was a fabulous evening!

Life is a beautiful experience. Each day is a blessing, so make it count and live the most fabulous life you can. Do things that bring you happiness, excitement, and fulfillment. It can be something as extravagant as a trip to Paris, or as simple as wine, popcorn, and a movie. Whatever you do, make sure it brings your heart great joy!

Be Fabulous!
Trice
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Challenges Help You Learn...

TGIF! Whew! This week has been filled with many challenges and what feels like not enough time. I've been working long hours each day (and into the wee hours of the morning) to finish my novel. Some days I've felt tired, overwhelmed, uninspired, and doubtful about my course. I've had to adjust my writing process along with my work and life schedule. My entire flow is different and somewhat unfamiliar to me. I'm entering uncharted waters, not only with this book, but with my life. It has been unsettling at times. 

But in the midst of it all, I'm learning a lot about myself along this journey. I've learned that I'm so much stronger than I give myself credit for (because I bounce back every day). I'm resourceful (I find a way to get things done). I'm determined (I refuse to give up, period!). And I'm creative (these characters and scenes!...). I'm not bragging, I'm simply sharing my truth, and I thank God for my gifts. I'm also thankful for the angels in my life who support and encourage me daily. 

My fabulous friend, let your strength and determination lead you to resourceful and creative ways to live your life and grow. Plant good people around you and stay encouraged! And never, ever stop dreaming, believing, or wanting more. Faith + Action = Results! 

Be Fabulous!

I'm Feeling Good!

"It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life, for me...and I'm feeling good."--Nina Simone

The late, great, Nina Simone and I have a few things in common. She was from North Carolina, and so am I. She was African American, and so am I. She stood up for social justice and civil rights, and I champion those struggles, too. She had her own style and sense of beauty, and she embraced them...and now, so do I!

It took me 40 plus years to realize that yes, I am beautiful, and I don't apologize for it. It's not a bragadocious statement, it's simply true. Beauty presents itself in many ways. Most people think of beauty in an aesthetic way, which is natural because we are a visual society. But real beauty comes from within, and transends to the physical. Ever wonder why some women who have "average" looks can attract men like bees to honey, or appear in top fashion magazines, or be herolded as the most popular girl at school, or be the life of the party whom everyone wants to know? It's because of their essence. The unique way they carry themselves. The kindness they extend to others. The talent they allow to shine from within. The respect they show and demand in return. And the confidence and comfort they posesses that lies in knowing they are wonderfully made, exactly as they are. This is the beauty that Ms. Simone owned, along with her beguiling looks; rich dark skin, expressive brown eyes, thick, lucious lips, and impeccable style. This is the beauty that I, too, possess (sans the thick, luscious lips...but you get my drift).

Southern women own their style, embrace their beauty, share it with the world, and do it like nobody else!

"It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life, for me...and I'm feeling good."

This song resonates for me, as does the life of Ms. Simone. She was a fierce woman, and she did things her own way. She was a sister on a mission who broke down barriers, stepping right over sterotypes of what beauty, talent, and love was supposed to look like. She ushered in a new day! Her life so inspires me, and as I continue my research to learn more about this interesting woman, I'm discovering many things about myself in the process (more on that later). 

Be fabulous, just the way you are!

Blessings,
Trice

If You're Gonna Do Something, Do It Big!

One thing about a Southern Belle--we take everything we do to a whole new level! If we decide to do something, we do it BIG! Take for instance my post-workout meal this afternoon. Normally after I workout I eat a light meal, usually a salad, and I feel satisfied. But today I was hungry--ribs touching my backbone kind of hungry--and I knew a salad wasn't gonna cut it. So I grilled a thick, juicy burger (charcoal grill, which is the ONLY way to go!). Well, I didn't want that delicious burger to stand by itself, so I cooked up some golden fries to go along with it. When I tell you it was scrumptious...Lord have mercy, it was good!

Moral of the story...If you're going to splurge, go all out. After I grilled my thick, juicy burger a little voice said, "Make a small side salad to go with it, that way you can reduce your caloric intake and not ruin your entire workout." But then a bigger voice said, "Excuse me, but that burger needs fries, and you need to enjoy it!" If I ate burgers and fries every day I would've listened to that little voice, but I don't, so I didn't.

Life is too short to deprive yourself of what you want. Moderation and balance is key to most everything. But it also pays to splurge every now and then. Live big, think big, dream big, and enjoy the beautiful blessing we call life...with a thick juicy burger and fries to wash it down!

                                           Do it big and enjoy!