JoeyPinkney.com Exclusive Interview
5 Minutes, 5 Questions With…
Patricia A. Bridewell and Faatima Albasir-Johnson, author of A Generation of Curses
(NCM Publishing)

Khadesia Hill’s life could not be better. She is the wife of the debonair Assistant Pastor, Malcolm Hill, youngest son and first choice to succeed his father as pastor of the mega church, Solid Rock Christian Ministries. Obedience to the Lord led her to California twelve years earlier where she met and married Malcolm and gave birth to their daughter.

Her world shatters when a detective shows up at her business one day. He claims to have evidence that could possibly link her to an ex-boyfriend’s murder ten years ago in her home town. Secrets about her past unfold and cast shadows over her pure reputation in the church and with Malcolm’s family.

When the news is revealed, Malcolm’s older brother Corbin and his wife Stacie step up efforts to win Corbin his father’s seat as the next pastor. Stacie’s friend Maxie, who has a long-time attraction to Malcolm, enters the picture at the wrong time and causes a love triangle by trying to sway Malcolm her way. Will Khadesia s and Malcolm s faith and trust in God remain steadfast through the crises in their lives?

Joey Pinkney: Where did you get the inspiration to write A Generation of Curses?

Patricia A. Bridewell: My inspiration came from knowing that some of the facts in this book were based on true events. I experienced an overflow of excitement when we started writing what I call a “Reality Adapted to Faith-Based Fiction” novel.

Faatima Albasir-Johnson: What inspired me was that it is a fiction story loosely based on some actual events that happened in the past. We both were able to entwine fiction and facts to pull the story together.

JP: What sets A Generation of Curses apart from other books in the same genre?

FAJ: I think the book has something in it for everyone; it is an interesting story that will appeal to many readers. We want to reach not only readers who enjoy reading Christian Fiction, but those who enjoy reading good stories.

PAB: The book is a mix of inspirational romance offset by the kind of drama that will keep readers wondering what will happen next. Parts of the book are somewhat edgy, but not much, and I think readers will enjoy the storyline. The story exposes imperfections as well as positive aspects of characters’ lives, which are what we see in the real world today.

JP: As an author, what are the keys to your success that led to A Generation of Curses getting out to the public?

PAB: The book will be released in May 2012, and we have been getting the word out through people that we know, social media, advertisement, planning for events and book signings. Our publisher has also been promoting the book.

FAJ: Even though the book has not yet been released, we have tried to create a buzz by using all forms of promotional methods. We are also connecting with various book clubs, trying to come up with creative, nontraditional avenues for promoting our book, plus our publisher recently did a great book trailer.

JP: As an author, what is your writing process? How long did it take you to start and finish A Generation of Curses?

FAJ: I tend to write in a free-flow style. It allows me to express myself freely, and it doesn’t inhibit my creativity. When the characters speak out, I write.

PAB: When an idea pops in my mind, I immediately write down facts—whether I’m at home, work, or driving somewhere. As soon as I get to a computer, I begin listing character names, appearances, personalities, plot information, whatever I can think of. From my ongoing notes, everything begins to flow.

We started the book almost two years ago, but both had tragedies occur and had to put it on hold for a while. But through prayer and determination, God put us back on track, and for the past six months we have collaboratively focused on finishing the book.

JP: What’s next for Patricia A. Bridewell and Faatima Albasir-Johnson?

PAB: My goal is to write more books that will hopefully encourage, educate, and inspire people. I have a deep passion for lifting spirits, and I believe words are powerful. The gift to pen genuine stories has been a blessing.

FAJ: I hope to continue my journey in the literary world, writing meaningful and enjoyable stories.

http://www.patriciabridewell.com

http://www.fatimaalbasirjohnson.com

http://twitter.com/PABridewell

facebook.com/search Patricia Ann Bridewell or Faatima Ingrid Al-basir

http://www.ncmpublishing.com

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