#RelationshipWed!!!

Hello my fabulous readers!! Y'all have been submitting some really interesting stories, stories that could relate to so many others going through the same issues and I would like to thank y'all for trusting me and letting me share your stories with my other readers. Not to mention the feedback I'm getting from my male readers, they are loving it as well! Relationship Wed's is taking off thanks to all of you...Check out today's issue:

Hey LaShonda, I really need some advice. I've been dating my boyfriend for about eight months now and on the surface it seems like we have the perfect relationship. My friends envy our relationship because we are always together and our chemistry is more than on point. But when you peel away the layers of our relationship, you will find that I have major issues with our situtiation. Okay, I know you won't judge me because I've read the Hood Chick's Series so I know you know about this life lol, but my first boyfriend was a drug dealer. He made alot of money on a daily basis and he spoiled me rotten! My bills were paid and he brought me designer everything. Unfortunately he got locked up and I found out he was cheating on me and we ended up parting ways. My next boyfriend played semi-pro ball and although he wasn't a millionaire, he still splurged on me and I got used to the lifestyle of having a man who was made. Well he ended up cheating on me as well and it took me a while to get over him but I got through it. So herein lies the problem with my new man.... I know I may sound superficial but I mean, he works for Directv, barely could pay his own bills let alone help me out with mine. He has a ton of debt which means EVERYTHING including his car is in my name. Recently he's been hinting around about a ring, (which I doubt he could afford a ring that I would want) but I don't know if I will be able to marry someone who isn't financially stable. Don't get me wrong, he's such a great guy. He has never cheated on me, he treats me like a Queen, rubs my feet and he can cook his a**off. But I guess I'm just used to the lifestyle of being financially sound. I will feel like an a**hole leaving him just because he doesn't make enough money but I didn't know how much this would affect the way I feel about him. I don't want to cheat on him but I would be lying if I said that I would turn down a man who brought more to the table because I wouldn't. I do really love my man but times are hard and I know that he's trying, but trying isn't enough. If our relationship stays like this, I'm afraid I may be turning down that ring.  What do you think, advice please??



Now I ain't saying she's a gold digger! Lol, just playing babe, I had to do it, lol!...But let's get serious for a moment..This is actually an easy one...
Alright, here is your track record---> You had two boyfriends who spoiled you rotten but broke your heart in the end, now you found a GOOD man who doesn't spoil you superficially but cherishes your heart, treats you like a Queen AND wants to put a ring on it. Honeyyy, do you know how many women search their entire lives trying to find a good man who they share chemistry with, is faithful, respects them AND treats them like a QUEEN? And you are really willing to throw all of that away because his check is too short? Sounds a little selfish to me. I know it's hard to transition from a particular lifestyle when you're used to it, but all the riches in the world don't mean shyt if you ain't with the right man! Have you thought of encouraging him to further his education, or possibly moving up in the company he currently works for? You stated that you know he's trying and that it wasn't enough. But honey, since when was trying NOT enough? How about you try treating him like a teammate instead of someone who is supposed to finance your lifestyle. It's not all about you. Trust me, it isn't a wise decision to discard a GOOD man because he isn't meeting your financial quota; you could end up regretting it. True enough, you could possibly leave him and meet a man with the riches you desire, but there is also a chance that you could get your heart broken again. With your current man, you already know what you're dealing with; a faithful man who loves you. My advice is to work on your situation, give him some suggestions and encourage him to put it into action. If encouraging him to work on the future for the both of you is too much for you, then maybe it's YOU who don't deserve HIM.. Good luck.

Submit your relationship question or issue to LaShonda, here--> www.lashondadevaughn.com

#RelationshipWed's!!

Hey y'all!! I really enjoyed all the feedback I got from last week's #RelationshipWed post. I could already tell that we are gonna keep our Wed's poppin on this blog! Be sure to subscribe so that you will be notified about new posts.. Keep sending in your questions and I'm going to do my best to get back to everyone and hopefully have your question or issue posted here on my blogsite... Here is today's relationship issue...

**LaShonda, I just finished reading I'd Rather Be Single and I cried through the entire book. Not necessarily because of the stories but because of the title itself. I'm currently engaged to my soul mate. We are slated to get married in March 2013. Recently my best friend told me that my fiance has tried to hit on her on more than one occasion; twice being drunken nights. She even said he groped her ass! He's obsessed with big asses, which I don't have at all and I have caught him staring at hers before. I've been friends with my best friend since we were five years old, so I have no reason to question if she is lying to me or not. She was crying her eyes out when she told me about it. Here's my thing, I borrowed seven thousand dollars from my mom and his parents gave us five grand for the wedding. Most of that money is already accounted for and I've spent so much time making sure this would be my dream wedding that I can't function right now. Should I call the wedding off? Do I leave my soul mate for trying to holla at my best friend and choose to be single? He keeps asking me what's wrong when I burst out in tears but I don't have the balls to confront him about it. I just keep telling him that the stress of the wedding has been getting to me. I really need advice, I'm losing my mind right now...Any advice would be helpful.**

Wow...This is a tough one, but lets lay out all the facts. Your "soul mate" tried to holla at your best friend since childhood, sneaks stares at her ass and possibly groped it as well. Hmm, I'm wondering how long your best friend held onto this information. On the other hand I'm pretty sure she probably wanted to get it off her chest before you jumped the broom with this man. Now, I don't know your best friend but you seem to trust what she says and if that's the case, read the second sentence in this paragraph over again (I underlined it). Is that who you want to marry? What if your best friend was a slut and gave into his advances, then what? His first violation is hollaring at your BEST FRIEND!! That's entirely too close to home, that means he doesn't respect your relationship with her or your relationship with him. In the words of Tamar Braxton, HE TRIED IT!!! He straight violated your relationship not just one time, but she said he tried it multiple times. That means it was no accident, drunken nights or not, he knew exactly what he was doing and what his main objective was. And I'm assuming it was to get into your friend's panties if she let him. Think about this, he could be doing the same thing to another woman with a "fat ass" who isn't this close to home and it could possibly go down. And girl you would probably never know about it! He already proved that he isn't trustworthy by hollaring at your girl so I wouldn't put it past him to try it elsewhere. Not only that but you said that you don't have the balls to confront him about this issue so if you found out that he's done something else, are you going to hold that in as well? You will only find yourself falling apart, mentally and emotionally and you don't deserve that. It's not good for your health.
            I understand your issue about the money you borrowed from both of your families but please think about the bigger picture. Don't get too wrapped up in having your "dream wedding" that you ignore the red flags and end up in a trust-less marriage. Money can always be replaced, you can always repay them for the wedding costs, but a broken heart leaves scars for life! It also consumes valuable time you could spend on the right person, someone who values your worth or even time working on yourself. Life is too short to gamble with your heart, especially when you already know some of the possible outcomes when dealing with this man.... I would never be the one to tell someone directly to call off their wedding, but please do me a favor and dig into the core of your strength and do what's right for you. You've been reading "I'd Rather Be Single" and crying off the title alone, so I think you know what's best for you. Good luck...

**Submit your relationship issue/questions to lashondadevaughn@yahoo.com**

Writing Tip Of The Week!!

Hey everyone!! Your girl is just getting back from Punta Cana!! Yes, I was in the Dominican Republic taking in some sun as well as taking in new inspiration for new stories... I'm still exhausted but the trip was well worth it... Anyway, I had to drop in and give y'all the tip of the week. Here is the question:

*Do Authors need to have a website in order to be successful?* 

The answer to that question is NO. With all the social networks such as Facebook, Twitter & Instagram, etc., websites are no longer needed to keep an Author's career afloat. Social networks allow Authors to get intimate with their readers and really connect with them. Websites are good for business purposes. For instance if your goal is not only to become an Author but to also become a Publisher, then by all means, create a website. Publishers need their websites to display their books, their Authors and to accept submissions. Your company may even sell other items such as T-shirts with the book covers or tote-bags with the titles on them. So the answer to the question is no, you do not need a website. If you choose to create one, that's great, but is it needed, no....

**Here are some snapshots of the view I took while in Punta Cana.... Every Author should travel outside of their element for new inspiration. It definitely gets your creative juices flowing. Especially when you have those spells of writers block, we all know how dreadful that could be #UGH.com! Till next time, keep writing yall!!

Introducing #RelationshipWednesdays!!

Alright, I've been getting emails for some time now from readers encouraging me to blog about relationships since I write books on relationship topics. Makes sense right? My last few books, "I'd Rather Be Single", "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" & "When A Woman's Fed Up" are definitely relationship based and are all VERY relatable..That being said, I'm finally buckling down and making it happen!...Introducing -->#RelationshipWednesdays! Every Wed I'm going to answer your questions & emails on different relationship issues right here on my blog! So buckle your seat belts because I won't sugarcoat anything and it's definitely going to get real! But hey, that's the only way I know how to be.. Hope you enjoy my relationship blogs, feel free to chime in. Let's get it ladies!! Here goes....

"LaShonda I've been with my man for four years, I caught him cheating twice during our relationship with the same girl. I recently found out that he was messing around with her again and I'm devastated. I finally broke up with him but I feel like I'm letting her win. I've tried to contact him to tell him that we need to talk but he's been ignoring me and my heart is broken. What can I do to get him back?"

Whaaaaat!?!??? Okay honey, I'm going to give it to you with no chaser. I understand that you're heart broken because you gave this man four years of your life, but why would you want this wack ass CLOWN back when he's cheated on you the entire time? He has no respect for you or for her! You obviously have no respect for yourself either if you want someone who blatantly cheats and disrespects you back in your life. You have to love yourself more than you love a man. It takes some women longer than others to get to that point but it's been four years for you, four years that you CAN'T get back by the way. Don't give him any more of your good years. If letting him go makes you feel like ol' girl won, then let that hoe WIN! In actuality she's LOSING because she's stuck with a loser who doesn't know how to be faithful. Cut your loses honey. Be done with him for good. Doing the same thing more than once and expecting a different result is called INSANITY! Don't drive yourself crazy over him, he's NOT worth it; you deserve better.. I'll leave you with this, a man that breaks your heart is practice until your KING comes along. Staying with him will only delay your chances of meeting that KING! Good luck....

LaShonda,

Submit your relationship question/issue for #RelationshipWednesday to LaShonda here---> lashondadevaughn@yahoo.com

Booksigning @ Frugal Bookstore #Boston

What's poppin yall!!! Man, I've been such a busy chick lately.. I think I'm the official President of #TeamNoSleep lol...Seriously, I've been working around the clock...Writing, publishing, promoting (When A Woman's Fed Up.. go cop that ;)) and everything that comes along with it. In between it all, you know I always have time for my readers!! I just recently hit up Frugal Bookstore in Boston and it was crazy! Needless to say, we got it poppin! Special shout out to all my readers, family and friends who came out to support. Booksignings to our readers are like artists and concerts. We get to be in the same vicinity of the people who love and support our craft and I enjoy chopping it up and kicking it with my readers. Hope to meet you in the next city ;). In the meantime your girl is hard at work producing more good stories for your reading pleasure. Till next time..Muah!

MD always shows L-O-V-E!!

Hey everyone!! I just wanted to give a shout out to everyone who came to the booksigning at the Cartel Cafe in MD, I had a BALL as usual! I signed books, took pics and chatted it up with readers and the Cartel staff. It's really important as an Author to get out and meet our readers and supporters because at the end of the day we Authors would be nothing without yall :). That being said, I will see yall this Saturday, December 1st in Boston at Frugal Bookstore from 12-5pm. Make sure yall come out and hang with ya girl. See you there!

Booksigning @ the Cartel Cafe Today!!!

If you are in the DMV (DC, MD, VA) area today 11-10-12 come see ya girl!!! I'll be signing books@ the Cartel Cafe-Bookstore --> 5011 Indian Head Highway Oxon Hill, MD.. Come kick it, take pics with me and grab one of the #LSDV titles!! See ya soon!! MUAH!!

"When A Woman's Fed Up" DROPS TODAY!!!

Yessss EVERYONE "When A Woman's Fed Up" drops TODAY, Nov 6th, GO GET IT!!! It's also ELECTION DAY today so make sure y'all get out and VOTE first & foremost-->#TeamObama! Ok, so, I must say I am soooo proud of this project! Shout outs to Tracee Boyd-Pratt & India because I couldn't have chosen two more talented Authors to join me on this masterpiece! Needless to say, WE ALL WENT IN!! Y'all know my books are always #TripleR (Real, Raw & Relatable) and this one is nothing short of that...And since I love y'all sooo much I'll give a brief summary of each story :)...Ok, my story "Dangerously in Love" is about a woman who desired to be loved so desperately that she fell in love with the wrong man. This nig was straight SICK!! Let's just say he was a MONSTER disguised as a Prince... Tracee's story "April Showers" is about 'the other woman' who was so blinded by the manipulative mask that her married lover wore when he was with her that she would bet her life that he was leaving his wife for her (smh, straight RATCHET)... India's story is about a woman who was with her man when he didn't have shyt and once he made it big he turned into a cheating bastard who was full of secrets (m,m,m)... Sounds juicy right? Go GET YOUR copy so you can read the FULL STORIES!!! Don't forget to leave us a review..Enjoy!!!! MUAH!!

Synopsis's for--->When A Woman's Fed Up!!

Everyone has been asking what the stories inside my new anthology "When A Woman's Fed Up" are going to be about... Well here are the official synopsis's for each of the JUICY stories!!!!! Don't forget "When A Woman's Fed Up" drops November 6th!!!!

A woman meets the man of her dreams, but he claims he's unhappily married. Another woman knows her husband is cheating but chooses to play with their minds and set them both up for destruction. Two women, one man, equals a thunderous outcome!! "April Showers"...By Tracee Boyd-Pratt

 

I wanted love, I deserved love, my body desired it and my skin craved it...Every woman wants to find love. But what happens when you fall in love with danger? Most women get even through a man's wallet, I get even with his life!..Dangerously In Love... By LaShonda DeVaughn

 

According to Jasmine James, living life in the “fab” lane has more downs than it has ups. She's been lied to, cheated on, and disrespected in the worst of ways. It's not until the unthinkable happens that Jasmine is finally fed up! After seeking revenge on those that have done her harm, she vows to shed no more tears.

"No More Tears"..By India 

 

 

Writing Tip Of The Week..Let's Talk Distribution..

Alright so we all know that when I first started writing in 2007 there was no ebook distribution outlets such as Amazon "Kindle" or Barnes & Noble "Nook". There was only hustling your books on the street corners or acquiring distribution to get your physical book into the large bookstores like Borders, Walden Books (at the time) & Barnes & Noble. I must admit, this was the hardest part of my career. Now Ingram is one of, if not the largest distribution chains in the world and I was told that I had to prove that my book was "store-worthy" before they took me seriously because I only had one title at the time. It wasn't easy but I proved that "A Hood Chick's Story" deserved to be on the shelves of the large bookstores and boom, they were in stores across the globe. Now remember, as a self-publisher, you can't stop at one distributor because bookstores like "Books A Million" & others only order books through particular distributors so I had to go hard on my research to find them and get my books on the shelves of different stores in every state. Let me tell y'all, till this day there are distributors that owe me THOUSANDS of dollars, I still wanna smack them AND their mamas but as a business woman I had to charge it to the game and take note of who the snakes were. With that being said  here is my advice to you. DO NOT give your books away on consignment. Get your money up front. Don't get me wrong, there are some reputable distributors who will take your books on consignment and pay you for them, but there are others that will pay you once or twice and then end up going bankrupt or out of business and then who will pay you for your books? Be smart about your business, it's all about trial and error, learn from every business decision you make. I defiitely had to and now I'm here to share my knowledge of the game with y'all. The GOOD and the Bad... At the end of the day, when you deal with reputable distributors, there is no greater feeling then walking in the store and seeing your hard work on the shelves :)

When A Woman's Fed Up!

Now y'all know I wasn't going to let y'all wait too long for the next joint! "When A Woman's Fed Up" drops NOVEMBER 6th!!!! I'm soooo excited!! When I say this book goes HARD, it's an understatement! Reminiscent of "I'd Rather Be Single" this  is another anthology with CRAZY stories by yours truly, ME, LSDV's newest Author Tracee Boyd-Pratt and Author India. The title says it all. Some ladies get even through a man's wallet, but in this book, we get even in BLOOD! This is another one of my biggest releases and I'm super excited about it. I really hope y'all are ready for it! Shout outs to Tracee Boyd-Pratt and India for the dope stories. Make sure y'all check out their work, Tracee Boyd-Pratt's "Married But Available" and India's, "Dope, Death and Deception" are both BANGERS! Mark your calendars because on NOVEMBER 6th, "WHEN A WOMAN'S FED UP" it's going DOWN! Peep the cover below and feel free to share it on your fb and twitter pages..MUAH!

**Writing tip of the week**

Would I recommend new Authors to self-publish or try to get signed?

This is one of the most popular questions that I'm often asked. I've touched on it briefly on my fb page in the past but I'll get a little deeper here. The answer to this is tricky and it all depends on what you plan to get out of being published. Do you want your work published for the sake of being a published "Author" or do you want to make a career out of this? If you just want to be published and don't fancy doing any of the leg work, by all means shop your work to publishing houses both large and small. One of the major perks in doing so is you get major distribution without having to prove yourself to distributors as an independent Author. Just remember that your publisher will be in CONTROL of your work from your cover, to suggesting changes in your content. If you don't mind doing the leg work and want to maintain control of your baby, then I recommend self-publishing. However, if you choose self-publishing, don't think because you and your family all agree that your book is the hottest thing since Christian Louboutin's that your book will sell out once you publish it. Haa, we all wish it was that easy? Writing the book is half the battle, promoting and getting your name out there takes more work than you probably would ever imagine. When I started in 2007, there was only myspace, no fb or twitter or online distribution through Amazon & Barnes & Noble, etc. It was only paperback distribution and a struggle to get books into the stores. I believed in my project to the point where I traveled all over the East Coast with flyers and books on deck on street corners in the hood to the suburbs to get my name out. I was determined to make a name for myself in this industry and it literally started on the streets. People started wondering who I was, they were going into the bookstores requesting my books and the distributors didn't take long to notice that my work was poppin! It was a double full-time job, I felt like I even had to do it in my sleep. You also have to participate in everything. From book signings to small, medium and large interviews both print, online and offline radio. I did it all so that the name LaShonda DeVaughn would ring bells in every outlet. Now that we have new means of promotion today such as twitter, fb, pinterest etc., it's a little easier. HOWEVER, easier doesn't mean easy. If you want to self publish, make sure that you do all the research, make sure your promo game is tight, different, unique and everchanging. Be sure that your heart is in it because it's hard work. I call this game Rick Ross because "Everyday you're Hustling," literally! So which do I recommend? Definitely self-publishing because I'm no stranger to hard work and I don't mind putting in the hours. Whichever you chose to do, I wish you nothing but success on your literary journey!

I get LOVE in my City!!!

The next stop on the Beauty & Books Tour was my City, BOSTON!!!!! Of course since its my hometown I got to visit some of my fam and friends, (Shout outs to them ;)). And of course I hit the hood and got some chinese food and a steak and cheese sub before I hit my book signing, I went IN! But anyway, I was invited to speak at the Waltham Library and I had a ball. The crowd was diverse and the turnout was great! Oh did I mention they invited the Boston Globe to my event and your girl was featured in it the next day!!! Now that's love! (I posted the link below). I spoke about my backstory and where I am in publishing today and signed books for readers. I had a great time and I look forward to coming back. I love my CITY!!!

LaShonda DeVaughn in the Boston Globe----->>>>>
http://www.bostonglobe.com/lifestyle/names/2012/08/08/lashonda-devaughn-talks-books-and-publishing-waltham/Wg91kzXs9rgLFBnqJ3uZSJ/story.html

 

Shout outs to the male readers!

 

 

Love you ATL!!!!

Hey Y'all!! I just wanted to send a special THANK YOU to every one who tuned in to watch me on Kandi Koated Nights!! The show was comical, entertaining and pure FUN! Kandi is super cool and down to earth, we got a chance to kick it after the show, and so is her crazy co-hosts Nikki and Dj Aone. I had to spend most of the show convincing Dj Aone's azz that my new book "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" is FICTION based which means the characters are made up but of course he was convinced that I was indeed the character I wrote about lol. In fact, he was hoping that I was the character in the book so that he could attach me to the racey scenes that I wrote..smh. He def made the show fun and entertaining fo sho...Special shout outs to Kandi & all of the Kandi Koated Nights staff, I had a ball, thank you so much for having me!....Love u ATL..Muah!!

LaShonda DeVaughn & Kandi

LaShonda DeVaughn & the entire Kandi Koated Nights Staff

On the set, fixing my hair as usual.. Look what book Nikki is holding #IfAllMenCheat

LaShonda DeVaughn & Kandi Koated Nights co-hosts Nikki & Dj Aone

Watch me live on KANDI KOATED NIGHTS!!!

I'm typing this blog from my hotel room in ATL (love you ATL!!) because tonight I'm making an appearance on KANDI KOATED NIGHTS!! I'll be hanging out with Kandi which you all know from the former group Xscape and most currently from The Housewives of Atlanta...I'm looking forward to kicking it with Kandi and the crew about my new book "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" This is gonna be so much fun because Kandi & her team are live and uncut just like my books so it's about to go down!!.... Tune in LIVE tonight Aug 1st at 10:30pm www.ustream.tv/kandionline

The DC Stop on the Beauty & Books Tour was Illmatic!

To say that the Akwaaba Mansion in DC was the perfect place to host the first stop on the Beauty & Books Tour is an uderstatement! Man we had wine flowing (that's all I needed lol), networking, music & and of course we kicked it off with a CRAZY discussion about relationships. I carefully chose a professional male AND female special guest because I knew that we were gonna go IN and we did! The ladies were letting the fellas have it but we had some strong men in the room to defend the fact that there are still good men out there and that not all men cheat. We had Authors, readers and other business professionals in the building and I definitely had a ball!! I couldn't let anyone leave without LSDV gift bags full of beauty items for both the ladies & the fellas :). Anyway, I hope to see you all in NYC August 8th & the Akwaaba Mansion in Brooklyn!! Enjoy a few pics below from the event, LOVE YALL!!!

Some of my guests listening to me run my mouth :)

My special guests..

DC I hope y'all are ready for me!!!

If you are in DC this Tues, July 17th come hang with me for the first “Real Talk on Love, Sex & Relationships” event at the Akwaaba Mansion from 6pm – 8pm at 1707 16th St. NW, Washington DC 20005...Never has an Author combined a book tour with a beauty concept and well, you know your girl always gotta keep y'all guessing!!! So we will have FREE manicures, wine, food &gift bags full of beauty products from some of our sponsors like Jessie's hair care. This tour is about to be off the chain and I hope I see YOU in your City. Oh and of course you have to dress to impress because you WILL be on camera! See yall there, Muah!

First stop on the Beauty & Brains Book Tour is.....

Ladies & Gentlemen of the DMV u are all invited to the “Real Talk on Love, Sex & Relationships” at the Akwaaba Mansion from 6pm – 8pm at 1707 16th St. NW, Washington DC 20005 on Tuesday, July 17th..FREE manicures, wine, food &gift bags... Come hang with me, can't wait to see you all :)

Writing Tip of the Week!

So you have this dope story you're working on that you feel would be the next best selling title right? Well guess what? There are a MILLION other people that feel the same way about their stories. At this point, you must figure out what makes your story so different from other books that are currently published in the genre that you choose to write in. Figure out what makes your story so unique and why you feel readers would gravitate toward your title and pass up the competition. Is it your illmatic cover (if you self publish), your catchy title or your decision to write on a subject that hasn't been touched on? For example, when LSDV's newest Author, Tracee Boyd Pratt submitted her manuscript to LSDV Productions, off top her title, "Married But Available" was catchy. Following the catchy title, the premise was just as interesting. Reading about a husband who asked his wife to swap wives with another couple for a week with a CRAZY twisted spin on the plot was eye catching and kept us wanting more. You see, when you give that something that stands out, you keep the reader wanting more thus gaining new readers and new readers give the best promotion which is SPREADING THE WORD through word of mouth. So while you are in the lab penning that best seller, keep these tips in mind and get that title out there... Congrats to all the aspiring writers out there putting in that time to write a book, it's not easy but the readers make it all worth it! Next writing tip coming soon....

**Make sure y'all support our new Author Tracee Boyd Pratt's new title "Married But Available" dropping Tuesday 6/26!!**

NYC Update!!

The NYC trip was everything I expected and more. From the time I arrived, up until the time I left, I was going NON-STOP! Like seriously, I had my flats on deck because I would leave one meeting and have to catch a taxi to the next and we all know that walking NY streets in heels is not the business. Anyway, I was honored to have meetings at the beautiful offices of Essence, BlackEnterprise & Interactive One to name a few. I have to say that everyone that I met with were so cool and down to earth. It's funny because when I meet w/people in this business, they always embrace my backstory first because of the journey of where I've been to where I am now. Like, who would have thought that a chick from the hood could literally go from the streets to the board room? It's all such a BLESSING because not only is the expansion of my brand increasing but the magazines are making some great stories out of our meetings that could inspire others who have been through similar situations not to give up.  I always say, if I can make it, so you can you. All and all, the meetings were successful and it had the perfect ending which was at the Black Pack Party at Londel's in Harlem. It was packed with anyone who is anyone in publishing. It's always good to rub elbows with my fellow Authors that I don't get to see often. The pic below is of me, Brandie Randolph (Bad Girls Books Show host) Author Tamika Newhouse, and some of Urban fiction's vets, K'wan, Erick and JM Benjamin. We had a ball! I'll see you again soon NYC!

Welcome LSDV Productions newest Author...

I'm happy to announce that Tracee Boyd-Pratt has officially signed a 2-book deal with LSDV Productions!!! Her new title, "Married But Available" is set to be released June 26th 2012. Be sure to friend her on facebook/TraceeBoyd and send her a warm welcome for joining the team. LSDV Productions receives numerous manuscripts per week and it's not easy to find  the next "Best Seller". When I read "Married But Available" I had no doubt in my mind that this was an Author that we needed to sign. The story is unique, the characters are relatable and the book is off the chain!! Make sure y'all be on the look out for "Married But Available" it's a guaranteed page turner and we are so excited to have Tracee on the team. Congratulations Tracee!!!

NYC Here I Come!!!

Alright everyone, so my next stop for business is NYC!! Yaay!!! I have always loved visiting the big apple because it truly fits my personality, it's fast paced, all about fashion and you can feel the ambition from hungry go-getters bouncing off the streets. Let me not even mention the shopping, child please, I can spend ALL DAY shopping in NYC. But anyway, this trip is all about business, the Book Expo is a big deal, Authors will be in the City in full force showcasing their books and rubbing elbows with their counterparts so I'm excited to be in the building. Apart from that, I'll be interviewed by Magazines, Radio Stations and meeting with Producers in the City about my new book "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!". So although I will only be in the City for all of 2 days (June 6-7th) it will be jam packed with business meetings, so no shopping for me this trip, lol.. I'll drop in when I get back to let y'all know how the trip went and what my next stop will be. Until next time...Deuces!!

Aspiring Writers, Get in Here!!!!

Hey everyone!! Hope all is well. Okay, so I've still been on workaholic mode; writing, reading manuscripts, attending business meetings and book interviews so I definitely had to take this time to check in with all of you. I can't thank everyone enough for all the emails and notes through my contact page with your reviews, support and inspirational words. I especially love the emails from aspiring writers asking for advice and tips on publishing because I can remember when I was reaching out to Authors when I first started out seeking feedback. Some replied some didn't and I promised myself that once I planted my seed in this game, I would never act brand new. That being said, your emails have inspired me to do weekly blogs on publishing advice/tips so make sure you keep checking in weekly for some tips on what have worked for me. Today I will share the number ONE jewel which is to do your RESEARCH. I know you may have heard that a million times but it's critical in order to stay afloat in this business. Rather you want to get published or go the self-publishing route, research the business to learn the ins and outs of publishing. It's a cut-throat business but if you enter with your business game tight, you will succeed. If you go in blind you will get minimal results. Remember there are tons of Authors out there no matter what genre you choose, so think about that "something different" you can bring to the table to stand out, come fully equipt with your knowledge from all of your research and you will WIN!

Listen to me Live!!

I recently did a radio interview on 1380 WAOK a CBS network in Atlanta with Lorraine Jaques-White in the morning discussing my new book "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" I talked about why I wrote this book and how the biggest misconception about this book is that it's a "how-to" cheat book for women. It's actually the total opposite of that, this book was meant to highlight cheating and why both parties shouldn't cheat.... Listen in and let me know if you agree with my reasoning for writing such a controversial title #enjoy!:

http://atlanta.cbslocal.com/2012/05/02/all-men-cheat-all-women-should-too/

This has been a very busy week, I've been doing photoshoots, radio interviews, writing and prepping for meetings with cable networks. Needless to say, I'm exhausted. I literally stay up to about 3am every night working my fingers off but by no means am I complaining. I love what I do and all the reviews that my readers leave for my work make it all worth it. Ok lets talk about the photoshoot. This time I got to shoot with my kids!!! Yes, you will see my babies and I gracing the pages of one of your fav mags in upcoming weeks. This was by far my FAV shoot of all times. Although my babies got tired of taking pics and wanted to run around and play on the set, we got some really nice shots. I posted some for y'all to view below, enjoy!!

 

Hello Beautiful Interview

Hey fam!!! So I just got back from Hollywood and guess what? It went FANTASTIC! Though the trip was filled with back-to-back business meetings at the beautiful Beverly Hills Hotel, Montage Hotel and offices on Wilshire Blvd., I was still able to dine at Mr. Chows and enjoy some Cali weather. The entire experience was surreal to say the least. Now, I'm still unable to discuss what deals are on the table but lets just say big things are POPPIN! All that I've set out to accomplish is being recognized. People tend to think that Authors are boring, spend our time in the library and pose as clean cut literary figures. Well honey, my intentions from the gate was to change all that. Not only is my content not watered down, unapologetic and speaks to issues that I feel go unheard but I'm also here to let the world know more about the people behind the pen. Authors are also artists, we are sexy, fun and and multi-dimensional. Never will you see me doing an interview that is boring and not informative. I give it to you with no chaser and it is what is is. Honestly, I think that's why my readers love me because of my honesty and the fact that I pride myself on being real. I give them real product and the face behind the product is just as real. That being said, enjoy my interview with one of the top urban blog sites, hellobeautiful.com below.. Also, photoshoot is slated for this weekend so be sure to follow my next blog, I'll continue to keep yall posted on my new ventures....until next time, Muah!!  

http://hellobeautiful.com/2511812/best-selling-author-lashonda-devaughn-divulges-story-behind-new-novel-if-all-men-cheat-all-women-should-too/


Me at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Cali....

I promised y'all that I would chronicle my new journey into the entertainment world and guess what?? First stop....HOLLYWOOD! Yes, your girl is heading to Hollywood this weekend...This is so crazy! All the conference calls, weekly meetings and hard work was all worth it... I knew that I was on to something when I wrote "A Hood Chick's Story" but I never knew how far it would take me. All the blood sweat and tears that I've put into this game and into my new business LSDV Productions since writing my first book has paid off in a major way. I can't go into details on what kind of deals I'm offered but once I get the green light, guess who will be the first to know??? Yes, I will post the entire journey right here on my blog! So stay tuned everyone because this ride is about to be CRAZY! Off to get my hair, mani and pedi done for my trip... Talk to yall in a bit...Don't forget to pray for your girl...Muah!

If All Men Cheat....Theme Song

Normally when I put out a new book, there is always a particular song out at that time that relates to my book to a tee. So when I first heard Melanie Fiona's 4am, I immediately related it to my book. Excuse my French, but all the bullshyt Janae put up with during her relationship with Tae in my new book, "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" made this song even more real to me. Its a song about a man who constantly cheats and leaves his faithful woman at home while he's constantly out doing him. The entire song was on point with the characters in my new book. Especially this line.... "I don't deserve this life, I make a perfect wife." Janae was the perfect woman for Tae but his selfish azz (excuse my French again) did as he pleased. There are so many women out in the world that could relate to both my book and this song. If you haven't heard it, I'm posting the link below. And if you haven't picked up "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" umm, you need to be heading over to Amazon or Barnes & Noble to read all about Janae and Tae's drama! You're guaranteed to find a piece of yourself in this story.

Enjoy the link, xoxo:

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TgmHOcPDSso" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Ok, so I've been super busy since the release of my new book, "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" and I'm so hyped about all the great reviews and positive feedback that I've been getting. Its truly a BLESSING!  My readers are so #dope and to show appreciation, LSDV Productions will continue running contests for book giveaways, gifts and cash prizes. We just gave away a Kindle to a lucky winner during a Facebook contest and now we are giving away a FREE NOOK! All you have to do is like my facebook fan page "Author LaShonda DeVaughn" to view contest details. The lucky winner will be announced this Monday 4/9/12 #GoodLuck! xoxo

Ok, so my new book "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" just dropped yesterday! #DOPENESS!! The feedback that I've been getting back has been AMAZING! I'm super thankful for ALL the love and support and I can honestly say that my readers always hold me down. **Kisses to my Readers** MUAH! Now, each time I drop a book, things start moving fast; the press, the tour and tons of interviews. I would like to share my interview with Abiola who you may remember from VH1's "Tough Love". This interview was so much fun, not only was it fun but it was deep. Enjoy this interview as you discover some things about me that you may not have known..

Interview here---> http://www.abiolatv.com/if-all-men-cheat-all-women-should-too-bombshell-book-club-alert/

Thank you for checking out my new blog! I'm so excited to share all of my new business ventures, travels and new releases with all of you as I continue to embark on this unpredictable journey into the entertainment world. LSDV Productions has been going hard with building a roster of Authors that will take the publishing industry by storm. If you already read the "Hood Chick's Series" and "I'd Rather Be Single" then you already know that that line up will continue to be CRAZY!... That being said, my new release "If All Men Cheat, All Women Should Too!" drops **4-3-12** Hope you're ready for the ride!!!!!! Till next time..MUAH LaShonda..