Meet Chyna Rose - Interview w/My Novel's Lead Character & a Sneak Peek at a Possible Book Cover!

A lot has been going on in this writer's world so I haven't been blogging as much and I miss it immensely! I am under the gun on some personal projects and efforts, but I had to drop in today to let you all know I am indeed alive and kicking!

MORE NOVEL UPDATES!: My novel has taken yet a different path since I spoke about it in my last post, Books, Blogs and Beautiful Beginnings. Remember the small press publisher that passed on my manuscript (due to limited publishing slots) last month? Well, one of the publishers introduced me to a literary agent who is interested in representing me. They are currently reviewing my work and I should have an answer soon! I will as always keep you readers in the loop! 

Now, as we all know, in publishing anything can happen, so even though I'm being considered by another independent press and an agent, I still have to continue on in my quest for publication so...

If self-publishing is to be my path, this could be my potential book cover. Here's a sneak peek!

Here also is an interview with my lead character Chyna Rose:

Q: What are your inner most fears and do you think you could tackle them if you were face to face with them?

My deepest fear is not being loved or accepted for who I am. Not making a real connection.

Q: Are you where you expected to be currently in your life? Why or why not? What have been your stumbling blocks?

No, absolutely not. I’m still young, no doubt, but I just thought I’d be further in my life. I definitely did not want to be still living with my parents. This is such a drag. I feel stuck. And pissed. Plus my mother hates my guts. She just tolerates me. My father never stands up for me…

Q:  I know that you want to be a famous songwriter. What steps have you taken to ensure that this dream becomes a reality?

Well, I have written a lot of songs, but that’s about it. I really don’t know how to go about it. I don’t get a lot of support. But I am determined to make it one day. I think the most important thing is the writing, you know, the talent. Shit, if I ever get my head clear, everything else will fall into place, right? Like, I know I have to make it happen though. I’m working on it. I’m working.

Q: Does the relationship that you have with your parents fortify you as a person or are you missing something in this relationship?

Have you ever loved something or someone and not known if the feelings were really mutual? That’s how I feel about my relationship with my folks. I guess they love me. But who really fucking knows? Their actions say otherwise. It’s almost like I don’t exist at times. Like why was I born if they didn’t want to pay me some type of attention? So I guess the answer is no, I don’t feel fortified by my relationship with them, but I do love them a lot. There is definitely something missing. I don’t know if it will ever be there. I wonder how they would answer this question if it were posed to them.

Q:  Are you in a romantic relationship at this time? If so, what does this person add to your life?

Mmm… Romantic? I don’t know if romantic would be the right word to describe what I have. I see a few men when the need arises, but Noir is the main one I guess. He really knows my body and how to make me feel good sexually, but as far as a deep connection, we don’t have that. He can’t see inside my soul. I’ve never had that type of love. Maybe one day. Maybe…

Q: How do you support your art?

I work at a local record store. The pay is pitiful, but I get a discount on music which is great. I have to know what’s out there you know? Also, my father slides me a little money secretly. That’s a whole other story all together.

Q: If you were stripped naked in front of 1000 strangers, which body part would you attempt to cover and why?

I would probably cover my heart. I wouldn’t want it getting pierced.

Q: How much do you laugh and smile? Is it enough? If not, why do you think you don’t? I like to laugh as much as the next person, but I know that I don’t do it enough. I would like to. But my life is so serious all of the time though.

Q: Do you have any close friends that you can count on if you really need them for emotional support?

I have Taylor, but I don’t let her get too close. I don’t think I could count on her in a crunch. She’s just cool to hang out with. I don’t really trust most people with my feelings.

Q: Which means more to you, a deep passionate kiss or a revealing letter?

A letter definitely would mean more. I guess it also depends on who the letter was from. Also I guess it would have to depend on who is doing the kissing too!

Q: Do you believe in God or a higher power? If so, do you partake in a spiritual life? 

I definitely believe in God. I talk to him in private a lot. I’m just not big on going to church. I like to read the Bible and get the true meaning. I don’t think going and listening to a preacher spout the same stuff every Sunday will bring me a deeper understanding of God. I have to read it and feel it for myself, by myself.

Q: Are you a forgiving person?

It depends on what is done to me.

Q: What are some things that you would not be able to forgive?

I hate liars. When I love, I love hard and I open myself up so if I opened myself up to you revealing all my scars and everything and you lied to me about important things, I would have a hard time forgiving.

READER PARTICIPATION!

What do you think of the book cover concept? Yay or nay? - Also, what do you think of Chyna? What are your impressions? Share your opinions in the comments! Thank you! 

Comments

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Hey Lisa! Thanks so much! I found a great designer through one of my blog connections. I'm hoping to find out soon whether I will be self-publishing or being published traditionally. Stay tuned! :-)

[Lisa at Amalfi Blue]

I love your cover. It's great. Who designed it? And this is a unique idea, interviewing your protagonist. Clever!

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

I appreciate your kind words Sweepy! I do feel like I've already won because no matter how it happens I am going to be published. So I'm going to savor the experience whatever it looks like. :-)

[Adriene]

I love that cover, Tameka! You go girl, stick with it (I know you will)! I hope a publishing deal comes through for you, but in any event, you will be published! I love that you have such a deep connection with your main character, as seen here in her interview. It's that connection that brings her to life on the page.

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Yes, Melissa I featured one of Chyna's songs in a post on Jim's blog. Great memory! Thanks so much for your kind support. It's most appreciated! Hugs!

[melissa]

It's definitely a YAY for me :) Loved it. I've met Chyna Rose if I'm not mistaken (a guest post in Jim's page?).

I love what she has to say :) I'm praying with you. I do hope to see your book published. Lots of love Tameka :*

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Hi Mary! Thanks so much for your feedback dear lady. I appreciate your warm wishes! :-)

[Mary Hudak-Colllins]

I love the cover you have chosen for the book! It is intriguing! I also enjoyed the interview questions and answers. Keep us updated at how it is going with publishing. I'm excited for you ☺

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Dawn, I'm not sure what's going to happen, but I am truly grateful for the positive movement surrounding LTC. It is my baby and I just want her to be showcased in her best light. :-)

Thanks so much as always for your comments, feedback and friendship. I am a blessed person to have such great support. Cheers! Know that I am always rooting for you too! Hugs!

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Nechari! Thanks for stopping by girl! When are you coming home? I miss our chats! Hopefully when you come back the book with be on the way to the presses and/or Amazon! Chat soon indeed! :-)

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Lori! Thanks so much for your visit to Lyric Fire and your very valuable comments about LTC! Yes, the colors mean a lot to me for many reasons and the fact that you were able to pick up on that is super cool! I like your idea about an author letter to Chyna. Putting that in my memory bank.

I love all of this sharing! It makes the writer/reader connection even more special! Thanks to all of you!

[Dawn]

First, I am so excited for you about the literary agent connection!!! That is the most challenging part of the whole publishing odyssey, finding someone who will believe in you and fight for you to be published. You know I'm holding you in strong prayer and belief that everything will fall into place, honey. :)

The potential book cover is unique and fresh looking. I love it! I also love your Q & A with the main character of your novel, as it, too, is a fresh, new approach that I haven't seen before. Your creativity always keeps me inspired. <3

- Dawn

[Nay]

Tameka, I can't wait to read the book. Your character interview definitely makes me want to know more about Chyna, as I see parts of her personality reflecting parts of myself. The book cover looks cool too. Talk soon!

[Lori Chase]

Tameka,

I love this as a potential cover for your book! It's visually interesting, it appears to actually relate to the story, and the choice of colors is spot on! Blue and purple always intimate bruising, which is befitting of Chyna's character; and I know that you're partial to the color purple!

I agree with Martha about your use of the interview technique to introduce your lead character--brilliant! I would enjoy a letter to Chyna from the author, as a preface.

With much anticipation and joy,
Lori Chase

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Jen, your comments warm my heart mamita! I can't wait for you to read LTC. I respect you so much as a fellow writer and to know you've connected with Chyna means the world! You have no idea!

[JenCPoe]

I have connected with this character on a deep level already, especially because of this line:

"I hate liars. When I love, I love hard and I open myself up so if I opened myself up to you revealing all my scars and everything and you lied to me about important things, I would have a hard time forgiving."

I love the same way as Chyna and I feel the same way about liars as she does. I also like this answer that she gave: "I would probably cover my heart. I wouldn’t want it getting pierced."

That is real deep. Of all things one wouldn't want to be exposed she chose her heart. I can tell this is going to be a deep book and I can't wait to read it!

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Thanks so much Jan! I can't wait until you can! Hugs!

[jan]

Your book cover is oh so cool, and Chyna well; young,loving and an artist,with a lot of intriguing wisdom to gain. I'd read your book in a heartbeat.

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

I have gotten to know her really well Jim! Thank you so much for your wonderful words of encouragement! I invite and need all of your good thoughts! Cheers!

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Hey, hey Martha! I'm so glad you liked the cover and the interview concept! I'm so new at all of this so thanks for the advisement on the image art. I'm working with a book cover designer so I'm leaning on his knowledge regarding the rights, but I thought it would be okay to feature the cover here. If not, I guess I will find out! LOL!

I am sending you light and good vibes regarding your book as well. I pray that you find a publisher and that your book will soon be in my hands and all other readers who are clamoring for your work dear one! Thanks as always for your support! Happy Sunday!

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Hi Privy! Welcome to Lyric Fire! Your comments are valued here. I hope to have the book available soon and I will definitely keep you updated! Thanks so much! Cheers!

[Tameka Mullins (Tamstarz)]

Andy! Your comments and insights are so precious to me. Thank you. I'm going to keep at it and even in my push I am also pushing you too. I pray for bigger and greater things for us all! Hugs!

[jim]

I LOVE THE Cover!!! Chyna seems like an interesting road to explore! Lots of meaty phycological avenues to wander around in. She should allow you to room to grow this woman and I am guessing you know her really well. Really Well!! Great luck and I'll keep a good thought for you !!

[Martha Orlando]

Tameka, I am so excited for you!!! I am praying that this publisher will pick your book up and run with it. Your idea of an interview with Chyna to allow us into her persona is brilliant! Makes me wonder if I should try something similar.
I love the cover, but, noting it's i-stock, you might have to be very careful in using it, even if you've paid for the rights. Make sure you check to see if there is a limit to how many times you can reproduce it.
I've decided to hold off on the self-publishing just a tad longer. Have sent a query to a Christian publisher, and will be sending to two more publishers this week. So, say a prayer for me, too! :)
Blessings, my dear, and all the best!

[Privy Trifles]

Loved the cover page. I am very curious to read this book...The name itself creates so much of mystery around it. Wishing you all the best...waiting to read this book soon!