Books by Sheryl Lister

Embracing Ever After (The first book in the Once Upon A Baby series) by Sheryl Lister

There aren’t many things that scare tough-girl Raven Montomery. However, the next Best Friends Challenge has her running in the opposite direction. What was she thinking? Her girls knew she’d never say no to a pact. But, when insecurities she thought she’d buried come racing to the forefront of her mind, she isn’t sure of anything anymore. Bryson is the most supportive husband a woman could ask for, yet despite his best efforts to dissuade her from worrying about the challenge, it isn’t working. Looks like she’s in too deep now, whether she likes it or not.

Download Embracing Ever After by Sheryl Lister

https://www.amazon.com/Embracing-Ever-After-Once-Upon-ebook/dp/B086MHGZKY

Never Letting Go (A book in the Carnivale Chronicles series) A Novella by Sheryl Lister

When journalist Asia Montgomery took her wedding vows, she meant them. Yet, somewhere along the way, things changed. With her marriage crumbling all around her and her trust shattered, she fears it may be too late to save it. She takes refuge at a tropical resort to figure out her next steps, but doesn't count on Jamal following her there...or his persistence.

Jamal Montgomery knew his wife, Asia, was the only woman he'd ever want. He has no intention of giving up on them, but gets the surprise of his life when he comes home early from a business trip and finds her gone. The tenacious attorney is determined to win her back and goes after her. Now everything they've built is hanging in the balance. Jamal and Asia will have to fight to rediscover the love they once shared and the passionate dreams yet to be fulfilled.

Download Never Letting Go: A Novella by Sheryl Lister

https://www.amazon.com/Never-Letting-Go-Carnivale-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B085SZG8KK

Love's Sweet Kiss (The first book in the Sassy Seasoned Sisters series) by Sheryl Lister

Nzinga Carlyle has finally gotten her life together after her divorce and is happily single. However, the moment she sees her teen crush at her high school reunion, old feelings start to rise. Nzinga isn't sure she's ready to move forward, although she can't deny the attraction between them. And after one sweet kiss, she has to decide how far she wants the relationship to go.

Byron Walker can't believe his good fortune when he runs into the woman who stole his teenage heart. Once he realizes their chemistry is still explosive, he vows not to let Nzinga get away a second time. Circumstances forced them apart over thirty years ago, but Byron intends to show her they were always meant to be.

Download Love's Sweet Kiss by Sheryl Lister

https://www.amazon.com/Loves-Sweet-Sassy-Seasoned-Sisters-ebook/dp/B084YTWNLF

Located an hour away from San Diego, the small town of Blackmont, California is known for its peaceful surroundings and majestic lakes. However, secrets and danger lurk just below the surface. And some secrets could prove to be deadly.

Love may be a distraction neither of them will live to enjoy…

When Zahra Chandler unexpectedly inherits her grandfather’s small-town home and bookstore, she jumps at the chance to leave LA. There’s just one problem: she also, unknowingly, inherits a long-buried secret that someone would go to any lengths to protect, including murder. The only thing standing between her and a killer is the town’s arrogant, but irresistibly sexy sheriff—a man who ignites in her a passion she’s never felt.

Kendall McKnight takes his job as sheriff seriously and is always prepared for anything…except his instant attraction to newcomer Zahra. As they’re drawn together in their search for clues, protecting her becomes less about civic duty and much more about carnal desire and he’s in danger of losing the one thing he vowed never to risk again—his heart. But the threat is closer than they realize and the truth, when revealed, could tear them apart forever.

Purchase Closer To You by Sheryl Lister

Genre: Romantic Suspense, Mystery

Amazon: http://bit.ly/CloserToYouSL

Sheryl Lister is a multi-award winning author and has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. She is a former pediatric occupational therapist with over twenty years of experience and resides in California.

Sheryl is a wife, mother of three daughters and a son-in-love, and grandmother to two special little boys. When she’s not writing, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers.

See all of Sheryl’s published books by visiting her books page.

http://sheryllister.com/books-published

Her Passionate Promise: Women Of Park Manor by Sheryl Lister

Order your copy today: http://bit.ly/HerPassionatePromiseRGP

After kissing one frog too many, Kathi Norris is content to remain unattached. But her well-ordered plans are turned upside down the moment she meets Eric Dawson. The skillful attorney by day and soulful musician by night, fires her up in more ways than one. The closer she gets to him, the more she realizes he's her prince charming …if he can let go of his past.

Eric risked his heart, only to see his world shattered by tragedy and betrayal. He's spent years running from relationships, but with Kathi's tender embrace and sultry kisses, Eric finds her hard to resist. He'll have to come to terms with his deepest hurts to win her trust and claim a love that promises forever.

***Excerpt ***

Kathi turned at the sound of a voice as smooth as black velvet. The same could be said about its owner when he appeared. She felt a whisper of recognition, and it took her a moment to realize that the cute little boy in the pictures hanging on the wall had grown into a heart-stopping Adonis. He had the same coffee-colored skin tone as his grandfather. With his towering height, dark, piercing eyes and slim, muscular build, she was certain women fell in his path wherever he went. Even she had trouble taking her eyes off him. Kathi shook herself mentally.

“Hey, son.” Mr. Dawson engulfed the man in an affectionate hug. “Kathi, this is my grandson, Eric. Eric this is Kathi Norris.”

Eric’s gaze traveled slowly down her body and back up and his gaze locked on hers. For a split second she saw what looked like interest…attraction? But it was gone so fast, she might have imagined it. She didn’t imagine her response, however—the sudden skip in her pulse and the warmth flowing through her. Kathi stopped staring long enough to extend her hand. “It’s very nice to meet you, Eric.”

“He’s a little old for you, don’t you think?” Eric said.

Mr. Dawson swung his shocked gaze Eric’s way. “Eric!”

Her hand slowly dropped and she eyed him critically. “Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed today or is that how you usually respond during an introduction? Usually, when a person says nice to meet you, the appropriate reply is ‘nice to meet you, too’, ‘the pleasure is all mine’, or something of that nature.” Mr. Dawson’s eyes widened and he chuckled, but she wasn’t finished. “I’m certain you didn’t inherit those manners from your grandfather because he’s a perfect gentleman.” She shifted her gaze to the older man. “I know you’d like to visit with your grandson, so I’ll get out of your way.” She was so mad, she wanted to punch Eric’s lights out. He’d made an assumption about her without even knowing her.

(Continued...)

Be sure to order the other books in the anthology. They can be read in any order.

Her Forbidden Fantasy: bit.ly/HerForbiddenFantasyRGP

Her Essential Love: bit.ly/HerEssentialLoveRGP

Her Little Secret: bit.ly/HerLittleSecretRGP

Her Undeniable Distraction: bit.ly/HerUndeniableDistractionRGP

HER CHRISTMAS WISH

When Kyra Reed discovers that Luke O’Connor is in LA, the Bare Sophistication manager vows to make him pay for breaking her heart. Her revenge goes south when the real-estate mogul entices her into his bed and reawakens her desire. But Luke is bound by a long-ago promise, and Kyra is wary of trusting him again. Will they get their secret holiday wish—to be each other’s by Christmas?

DESIGNED BY LOVE

“Flings without strings” is Jeremy Hunter’s credo while he grows his California robotics company. But he craves a deeper connection after sharing assistant professor Serita Edwards’s bed during a weeklong conference. When they unexpectedly meet again, he’s ready to take things to the next level. But his company’s newest hire won’t mix business and pleasure. Unless Jeremy can win Serita’s heart with his hands-on approach to life…and love.

Purchase Her Christmas Wish & Designed by Love by Sheryl Lister and Sherelle Green

SPARK OF DESIRE

A suspicious fire at one of his construction sites ignites an all-consuming passion when Cedric Hunter meets arson investigator Randi Nichols. A woman battling to prove herself in a male-dominated arena, Randi won’t back down from danger, even if it costs her a love that fulfills them both. And if Cedric wants to win her heart, he must be ready to risk his own.

ALL FOR YOU

Dedicated and talented surgeon Myles Jackson can always be counted on to do what is expected, like joining his father’s practice. Then he meets free-spirited painter Aria Bell, who creates her own rules for art and life. She challenges Myles to rethink everything he thought was important and pursue his passion. As this desirable, extraordinary woman becomes more than his inspiration, can Myles find the courage to live his dream?

Purchase Spark of Desire & All for You by Sheryl Lister and Elle Wright

More Books by Sheryl Lister
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SWEET LOVE

Surgical nurse Alisha Hunter lives for her children and her career. At a party, she meets a man who vows to broaden her horizons. Former military officer Jabari Sutton is ready to settle into civilian life—with Alisha. And she can’t deny the desire that ignites with a single kiss. But the reappearance of her ex throws her world into chaos. Is Jabari as perfect as he seems—someone Alisha can trust with her heart?

BECAUSE OF YOU

The sexy stranger Bailee Sanders invites back to her New Orleans hotel room makes her totally forget the relationship she just ended. She never imagines they’ll meet again…until Dr. Ian Jackson shows up at her brother’s wedding. Their chemistry’s off the charts, but Bailee’s wary of trusting another man. As they forge new career paths, can she and Ian find a way to live—and embrace love—on their own terms?

Purchase Sweet Love & Because of You: A 2-in-1 Collection by Sheryl Lister and Elle Wright

ROAD TO FOREVER

Happily single boudoir photographer Aaliyah Bai can’t believe she’s on a trip from Miami to California wine country with the most uptight man she’s ever met. Until all-business VP Bryant Burrstone reveals his sensual side. Soon they’re sharing more than merlot and breathtaking scenery. Now Aaliyah faces a life-changing decision, and Bryant’s future in his family wine company is on the line. Will they ever arrive at a final destination called love?

A LOVE OF MY OWN

Poised to take over his family’s Sacramento construction business, Lorenzo Hunter doesn’t do casual flings. Until he meets the Chicago-born owner of Scentillating Touch. Desiree Scott offers a world of pampering, and Lorenzo is tempted to indulge. Horse-drawn carriage rides lead to passion-filled nights that raise the bar for them both. Can Lorenzo and Desiree battle personal and professional threats and claim a love that’s theirs alone?

Purchase Road to Forever & A Love of My Own: A 2-in-1 Collection by Sheryl Lister and Sherelle Green

A millionaire with a wary heart…

And a first love worth repeating…

Success couldn’t make former model Alexis Armstrong forget the one who got away. When she “rents” Derek Moore at a fund-raiser to show him what he’s missed, things don’t go as planned.

Their sizzling chemistry reignites…with lasting repercussions. Derek wants to be there for his baby, but Alexis will only marry for love. Can he convince the stubborn beauty he’s for real?

Purchase His Los Angeles Surprise by Sheryl Lister

Celeste Williams has finally gotten her life back on track and the last thing on her mind is dating again. Then she meets Thaddeus Whitcomb, a man as caring as he is handsome. The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible. Celeste thought no man could move her as deeply as her late husband, but Thad rekindles a passion she never believed she'd feel again.

Since his divorce years ago, Thad has lived a full and successful life. The moment Celeste crosses his path, he realizes she's the piece he never knew had been missing. As friendship blossoms into more, Thad discovers a second chance at romance. But Celeste begins to retreat. Once he uncovers her reasons for becoming distant, he'll do whatever it takes to convince the sensual beauty that nothing matters more than their love.

Purchase Sweet Summer Days by Sheryl Lister


More Books by Sheryl Lister
https://www.amazon.com/Sheryl-Lister/e/B00JB0J858

Home flames still burning…

Malcolm Gray is Lauren Emerson's biggest regret. Eight years ago, a breakdown of trust cost her a beautiful future with the most charming man she'd ever met. Now a career-making opportunity brings the nutrition entrepreneur home, where she hopes to declare a truce with her ex-love, the star running back of the Los Angeles Cobras. But their first encounter unleashes explosive passion…and unwanted memories of the precious dreams they once shared.

Malcolm can't forgive Lauren for her betrayal after they had pledged their eternal devotion. But her play-stopping curves alone are a turn-on he can't resist. He knows he'll never get over her—nor does he want to… Is their love worth a second chance? Or is he risking heartbreak again? As they jockey for position, a new set of rules could change the game for both of them.

Available on Amazon: http://amzn.to/2rk2tet

SNEAK PEEK: Still Loving You (The Grays of Los Angeles - Book 5)

“Look, Malcolm, I know this is awkward for both of us.”

“Awkward? Is that what this is?” Malcolm leaped to his feet and she instinctively took a step back.

“Awkward doesn’t begin to define what this is. Why are you here?”

Lauren frowned and folded her arms. “I don’t know what you mean.”

“You could’ve taken a job anywhere. Why here?” he asked through clenched teeth. “I don’t want you here.”

She placed her hands on her hips and leaned up in his face, her dark brown eyes flashing with anger. “Because this is where I wanted to work. I was offered an opportunity few get and taking it meant being closer to my family. What was I supposed to do? Check with you first? Newsflash, Malcolm Gray, I don’t need your permission for my job choice and whether you like it or not, I plan to be here for a long time!”

Something within him snapped and before his action registered in his brain, he hauled her into his arms and crushed his mouth against hers in a hungry and demanding kiss. Malcolm expected Lauren to push him away, slap him or make some kind of protest…anything, but she didn’t. She kissed him back. And in the way that drove him crazy, like only she could.

“Malcolm,” Lauren whispered.

Finally, sanity returned and he jumped away from her as if he had been burned. What the hell am I doing? His breath came in short gasps and his heart thumped erratically in his chest. His gaze was drawn to Lauren’s lips, still moist from his kiss and the rapidly beating pulse in her neck, which didn’t help matters. He needed to leave now. Malcolm stepped around her, crossed the office in three strides and snatched open the door. He paused and turned back. “This changes nothing. I still don’t want you here.”

Still Loving You (The Grays of Los Angeles - Book 5) by Sheryl Lister

Faith Alexander's guardian angel has a body built for sin. Ever since she woke up in the hospital after a car crash, her rescuer, Brandon Gray, has been by her side-chivalrous, caring and oh-so-fine. Faith came to Los Angeles to find her long-lost father, only to learn that he's a partner in Brandon's family business. How can she reveal that her inheritance stands in the way of Brandon's career dreams?

All Brandon's focus is on his long-coveted role as CEO-until he stops to help a mysterious beauty. With chemistry this irresistible, he's ready to share a future with Faith, but he feels beyond betrayed to discover what she's been hiding. If desire and trust can overcome pride, he'll realize he's found the perfect partner in the boardroom and the bedroom...

Book Reviews: Giving My All To You by Sheryl Lister

Thank you Ms. Lister for writing an excellent, well thought out story. In the new installment to the Gray's Of California series we have Boss Man Brandon Gray falling hard for Ms. Faith Alexander. Throughout the story we get to witness Brandon's fall from grace. Never in a million years did I imagine there would be a woman willing to go up against Brandon Gray. We all know Brandon is a jerk who wants things his way, and like always he doesn't disappoint with his controlling ways. But...he has met his match. Faith is vivacious, independent and strong. She's all the things Brandon is not used to, but nevertheless is still drawn to. You have to read this awesome story to find out if Faith is able to knock Brandon off of his high horse and bring him down a peg or two.

- K. Murphy, Sisterhood of the Traveling Books

Talented writer, Sheryl Lister has penned another enjoyable story that features the Grays of Los Angeles. In Giving My All To You, Brandon Gray, scion of the wealthy and influential Gray family is next in line for the coveted position of CEO of the family business, Gray Home Safety. Brandon has given his all to the company and is looking forward to heading the highly successful company. Not only is Nolan Gray stepping down to pass the torch, but also the Vice-President, Thad Whitcomb, Nolan's best friend and "uncle" to the Gray siblings. Since Nolan is handing over the company to his son, it is only fitting that Thad hands over his VP position to his heir. W A Y M E N T... Thad has a child? When did this happen? None of the Gray siblings have ever seen or heard of this person. Brandon is told that his new position will have to be put on hold until the future VP is found. Houston, we have a problem.

The story gets better because while waiting for the mysterious future VP to appear, Brandon falls in love with the lovely Faith Alexander whom he meets under unusual circumstances. I'm telling you, this story has it all - love, romance, secrets and the "Pièce de résistance", the HEA.

All members of the Gray family are present and accounted for, which is an added plus. Giving All My Love To You is a great read, and I recommend it!

- B. Watson-Larnell, Building Relationships Around Books Book Club

Reading a book in the Grays of Los Angeles series is like taking a bite of your favorite snack. It tickles your taste buds and really satisfies you. Each book gets better and better! Here, we focus on the very successful, wildly sexy and stubborn bachelor Brandon Gray. He has his sights set solely on inheriting the CEO position at his family's Home Safety company. Finding a woman to settle down with is nowhere near his radar.

Meet the beautiful Faith Alexander. She's on a quest of her own until a tragic incident changes everything. Oh my goodness! There are so many elements that I love about this story. Sheryl Lister has created a family that we can relate to. Real people with very real emotions tackle everyday life, success and matters of the heart. It's executed in such a way that makes the reader hastily flip the pages in an effort to see what's next, who's doing what and how things will turn out in the end. I was always in my happy place as I read this romance. It's written beautifully. I loved it. Five Stars!!!!!

- Tanishia Pearson-Jones




Books by Sheryl Lister
https://www.amazon.com/Sheryl-Lister/e/B00JB0J858/



About the Author
Sheryl Lister has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. When she’s not reading, writing or playing chauffeur, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers and bite-sized desserts. She holds a B.S. in Occupational Therapy and post-professional M.S. in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University. She resides in California and is a wife, mother of three and works as a pediatric occupational therapist.

"Brandon, hey. What are you doing here?" He had on a pair of basketball shorts and T-shirt that outlined his muscular chest and washboard abs.

He unleashed that mesmerizing smile and held up a white bag. "Thought you'd might have some trouble cooking."

Faith sighed in relief. "Bless you. Come in."

Brandon chuckled. "Sounds like you're happy to see me."

"You have no idea. Please tell me that what you have in that bag doesn't require me to use a spoon and I'll name my firstborn after you."

His laughter filled the room. "Brandon is a nice name." He carried the bag over to the table, took out a disposable container and opened it. "I didn't know what you liked, so I took a chance on a club sandwich and French fries. Hope that's okay."

She wanted to throw her arms around his neck and kiss him. "More than okay. Thank you."

He sniffed and surveyed the room. "Were you trying to cook?"

"Yeah. I thought it would be easy to scramble an egg. It was. But by the time I could get it out of the pan with my left hand, it no longer resembled something edible."

His eyebrows shot up. "You haven't eaten anything since I left you?"

"I had a slice of cheese, five crackers, a handful of almonds and some grapes." She shrugged. "It was the best I could do."

"Then I'm glad I stopped by."

"Me, too." They fell silent.

"Well, I only came to drop off the food, so...and I really wanted to see you again."

His soft confession made her pulse skip. And, truthfully, she had wanted to see him, too. Before she could talk herself out of all the reasons it would be a bad idea to spend more with him, she said, "Then why don't you stay and keep me company."

Brandon smiled. "I'd love to." He seated her and took the adjacent chair.

Faith recited a quick blessing and started in on the sandwich. She was so hungry she devoured the first half in a matter of a few bites. She lifted her head and saw Brandon staring at her with faint amusement. "Oh, I'm sorry. Do you want some?"

"No, thank you. I've already eaten. I'm just glad you're enjoying my selections." He leaned forward and braced his arm on the table. "What else do you enjoy?"

She paused with a fry halfway to her mouth. "I like reading, shopping and designing websites."

"Quite an eclectic mix," he said with a laugh.

"Hey, what can I say?" She ate another fry. Belatedly, she remembered she hadn't gotten anything to drink. When she made a move to stand, Brandon jumped to his feet to help her.

"Do you need something?"

"I was just going to get some water or juice."

"Sit down. I'll get it."

Her brow lifted and she lowered herself back down. "Kind of bossy, aren't you?"

"One of my more stellar traits, I'm afraid." Brandon retrieved a glass from the cabinet.

"Which one, water or juice?"

"I'll take the juice, please." Faith continued to eat and thanked him when he placed the glass in front of her. Silence rose between them and he seemed content to just sit and watch her. Any other time, she would have felt uncomfortable with someone staring at her while she ate, but not today. Today, she was too hungry to care. As soon as she finished, he rose from the table, cleaned up and discarded the empty container. Faith had never been around a man like him and couldn't believe some woman hadn't snatched him up. At the hospital, he'd said he didn't have a commitment to anyone. There had to be something wrong with the women in this city. Or maybe it was him. "So, any big plans tonight?"

"Just catching up on some work."

Faith was instantly contrite. He'd taken off half his work day for her. She got up and walked over to where he still stood in the utility kitchen. "I'm sorry. You took off work for me and now you have to spend your Friday evening working. By the way, what do you do?"

He hesitated briefly. "I work for a home safety company. And, believe me, whether I'd worked half a day or a full one, my evening would have been spent doing the same thing. Actually, you've helped me out by allowing me to hang out with you tonight."

She leaned against the counter. His abrupt answer made her wonder if he was having problems at his job. "Why are you helping me? Not that I don't appreciate it, but, I mean, you've gone far above the 'good Samaritan' role."

Brandon folded his arms across his wide chest and angled his head thoughtfully. "You're a beautiful woman, no getting around that. But you have a great personality and a way about you that intrigues me. I like you, Faith. It's as simple as that."

"Um...wow. Okay. You're very direct."

His voice dipped an octave and his gaze trapped her. "Always."

The heat swirled around them. To cover her nervousness, she took a step back and cleared her throat. "Well, I don't want to be responsible for you being up all night, so..."

"Yeah. I'd better go." Yet neither of them moved.

( Continued... )

© 2017 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Sheryl Lister. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

Purchase Giving My All To You by Sheryl Lister

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2g93i2f

Genre - Contemporary Romance

Sheryl Lister has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. She writes contemporary and inspirational romance and romantic suspense. She's been nominated for an Emma Award, RT Reviewer's Choice Award, named BRAB's 2015 Best New Author and 2016 Breakout Author and Black Pearls Magazine's 2017 Author of the Year.

When she's not writing, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers. Sheryl resides in California and is a wife, mother of three daughters and a son-in-love, and grandmother to two special little boys. Visit her website at: www.sheryllister.com.

BPM: What made you want to become a writer? How long have you been writing?
Growing up, I'd always wanted to write, and when I discovered African American romance, I was ecstatic. I'd share my stories, but never put them on paper. My mother told me for years to "stop telling me the stories and write them." It wasn't until she passed away that I realized it was time to stop talking and get to doing. Still, it took me being laid up after having back surgery to actually do it.

BPM: How do you think you've evolved creatively?
When I first started writing, I was very cautious about writing certain scenes and staying within some self-imposed boundaries. With each book, I'm taking more risks and pushing myself beyond those walls. I have to say that I love the growth, although it's scary, and hope to continue challenging myself.

BPM: Do you view writing as a kind of spiritual practice?
I don't necessarily consider writing a spiritual practice, but I do know that it is a precious gift from God to be able to share my stories and explore my creativity.


BPM: How has writing impacted your life?
Writing has allowed me to finally be able to pen all of the stories that crowd my mind. However, a more important impact has been the most amazing and wonderful relationships that have evolved with readers and authors. Some of these bonds have enriched my life in ways that continue to amaze me and I've gained friendships and a sisterhood that will last a lifetime.


BPM: What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?
In the beginning, I would start stories, but never finish them. So, one of the most surprising things I learned when I actually completed a book was that I could. There's nothing like having a feeling of accomplishment.


BPM: Where do you see yourself as a writer in five years?
My goals for the next five years are to continue to publish traditionally and independently, to expand my published works to include single title contemporary romance and romantic suspense, and to continue to build a wider reader base.


BPM: How do you find or make time to write? Are you a plotter or a pantster?
I make time to write at all times of the day and anywhere. My motto is: Have laptop, will travel. I've been a diehard pantser, but I am beginning to learn that there are benefits to plotting. For now, I'm finding a balance between the two - not to be so rigid in my plotting that I don't allow my characters to take me where they want to go.


BPM: How did you choose the genre you write in? Have you considered writing in another genre?
I'm a romantic at heart, so I believe that's why I naturally gravitated to the romance genre. But I do love a good mystery/thriller and would love to write one someday.

BPM: Tell us about your novel Giving My All To You? Available on Nook and Kindle?
My most recent work, Giving My All To You, is the third book in my Grays of Los Angeles series and features Brandon Gray, who is all business and no play. Readers who have read the first two books know that he has a slight problem keeping his foot out of his mouth, but he meets his match in Faith Alexander.


BPM: Give us some insight into your main characters in Giving My All To You. What makes each one so special?
While Brandon Gray can be a little arrogant, he is loyal and protective to a fault, especially when it comes to family or the family business. He can be overbearing at times, his heart is in a good place. Faith Alexander has a knack for going with the flow. She may get upset initially, but will quickly make the best of a situation. She is also the one woman who can temper Brandon's intense nature, and that makes her special indeed.


BPM: What was your hardest scene to write, the opening or the close?
Actually, the middle is always the hardest part for me. I know exactly how I want the story to start and end, but it's filling in all those pieces to fit perfectly that gives me trouble.


BPM: Share one specific point in your book, Giving My All To You, that resonated with your present situation or journey.
This particular book didn't really have any situations that parallel my life's journey, except the deep love and happily-ever-after my characters find in the end.


BPM: Is there a specific place/space/state that you find inspiration in?
There isn't one place that I find inspiration. I find inspiration everywhere, whether it's a song, conversation, situation (someone else's), or just when I'm sitting and people watching. Plots sometimes come to me in the middle of the night, as well.

BPM: Are there certain characters you would like to go back to, or is there a theme or idea you'd love to work with?
Several of my secondary characters are already clamoring for their own stories in my head. I'm planning to write Eve Thompson's story, who appeared in It's Only You, Brooke Alexander (no relation to Faith), who appeared in Places In My Heart, and Mariah Gilbert and Dawn Caldwell from Made To Love You, just to name a few. I'd also like to write Faith's biological father, Thaddeus Whitcomb's story. After you read Giving My All To You, let me know if you agree.

BPM: Do you want each book to stand on its own or do you prefer to write series?
I like the combination of the books being connected in a series, while still standing alone. I would like to write a few single titles, as well.


BPM: Does writing energize or exhaust you?
Writing tends to energize me because it allows me to tap into my creative space and stay there a while. However, I do get exhausted sometimes, but that's probably because I sometimes take on too many projects at one time. Once, I develop a timeline and reorganize myself, the energy returns.


BPM: Do you believe in writer's block?
I do believe there are things that can cause writer's block. When my pain levels are high, or if there is some other stressful thing going on in my life, I have a difficult time finding my way through a story. My concentration drops, which frustrates me and causes an even longer block. I usually have to walk away for a day or so and rest, then I'm able to see where I'm going.


BPM: Do you try to deliver to readers what they want or let the characters guide your writing?
While I'm always interested in hearing what readers would like to see, ultimately, it's the characters who guide my writing. The great thing is sometimes those two things coincide and I'm able to give my readers stories they've been asking for in a shorter time frame.


BPM: Is there one subject you would never write about as an author? What is it?
I will never write stories that perpetrate violence or stories that denigrate Black men.


BPM: Is there a certain type of scene that's harder for you to write than others?
The hardest scenes to write for me are intimate ones because I don't want every scene to read the same. But, there's only so many ways to say certain things.


BPM: What was the best money you ever spent as a writer?
There are so many things on this list, but I would have to say the best money I spent so far was to attend the 2015 Romance Slam Jam in Dallas. It was the very first time I had ever been to an event and to meet the readers and my favorite authors face-to-face is something I will never forget.


BPM: Have you written any other books that are not published?
I have five completed manuscripts that have not yet been published. The first two books I wrote are among them, and though I would like to publish them one day, they need a lot of work. The other three are being tweaked and I hope to have them ready for submission or to be self-published soon.


BPM: What projects are you working on at the present?
I'm currently working on the last book in The Grays of Los Angeles series and preparing to start a new one featuring their cousins, who live in Sacramento. I'm also working on a special project that will be released sometime in the summer.


BPM: How can readers discover more about you and your work?
Website: www.sheryllister.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/1slynne
Instagram: sheryllister
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sheryllisterauthor