Meet Allison Edwards aka “Essence M”. The beautiful brain behind Illuminnessence Publishing, founded in 2007 by this avid writer/ reader who began her love affair with words at a tender age. Allison went on to create an extensive catalog of unpublished works including poetry & short stories.Allison’s passion for words began in early childhood, she had always been fond of reading about life, love, poetry and short stories. As she matured, she challenged herself to hone her craft, exploring various story lines and navigating into the tumultuous world of adult relationships. Throughout her teen & young adult years she decided to put pen to paper and indulge one of her fantasies, to become a writer. Some of her favorite authors include Donald Goines, VC Andrews, Jackie Collins, Judy Blume and ZANE. This eccentric choice of novels allowed her to see different genres, writing styles and what they entailed. Each were very different and taught her alot with regards to target audiences, storylines, and descriptions. Nothing prepared her however for her venture into Urban Literature.Allison’s first experience with Urban Lit began when she, as an avid reader received a message from one who promoted for a brand new unknown publishing company and was seeking assistance in promoting novels. Members would receive a chance to win free books and other spectacular prizes. Allison jumped at the chance and was soon an official Street Team/Pep Squad member of the “Cartel Publications” spearheaded by Essence Best-selling Author T Styles and her partner Vice President, Charisse Washington. They both would play an important role in Allison’s literary career later on as mentors.Their influences and support caused Allison to link up with KingPen A.S of HHEAT Magazine and she was able to co host a show with him featuring authors on Blog Talk Radio. Authors interviewed include K.D Harris, Jason Poole, Iesha Brown, and much more. This allowed Allison access to an industry untapped where new and established authors were able to speak with her regarding novels they wanted to promote. She then took on the responsibility of hosting her own radio show which showcased Authors such as Takerra Allen, Tanisha “Mahogani P” Pettiford as well as others. During this time, Allison shamelessly continued to promote The Cartel Publications and began writing her first novel.
It is with that unwavering tenacity that we’ve arrived at this point. Allison’s first venture into self publication “Broken Promises NeverMend” became available in paperback in January 2010. An amended version of which was released June 2010 in paperback, which features a new cover. It premiered on www.amazon.com for Kindle, as of June 2010 as well. Allison learned various lessons while putting this novel together. Some of which she’s still learning to this day and with every novel she improves her craft and tries harder. She proved that by releasing a follow up to her debut less than a year later showing naysayers that she wasnt a one hit wonder. .
The sizzling sequel “Bound By Lies” debuted on www.amazon.com for Kindle, February 2011 to rave reviews and is still causing mouths to drop with an ending that rivals its predecessor. Both novels are considered an “underground success” and were edited by Brandie Randolph of Editing Couture.
Allison is currently focused on a collection of other works slated for release in 2011, under her imprint “Illuminnessence Publishing.” Next up to debut is a “novel for the streets” entitled “BITTERSWEET” which will drop December 2011. Allison anticipates an abundance of blessings in 2012 beginning with work on an anthology as well as promoting authors that seek her assistance in publishing via her imprint Illuminnessence Publishing.”I was blessed to enter this industry and know how hard it is, so the least I can do is give back.” she says with a gleam in her eye and a smile on her face. This native New Yorker prides herself in assisting others and promotes literacy to her children.This isnt the end of Allison otherwise known as Essence and we can tell she’s got a long way to go but the rewards have been phenomenal.
It is with that unwavering tenacity that we’ve arrived at this point. Allison’s first venture into self publication “Broken Promises NeverMend” became available in paperback in January 2010. An amended version of which was released June 2010 in paperback, which features a new cover. It premiered on www.amazon.com for Kindle, as of June 2010 as well. Allison learned various lessons while putting this novel together. Some of which she’s still learning to this day and with every novel she improves her craft and tries harder. She proved that by releasing a follow up to her debut less than a year later showing naysayers that she wasnt a one hit wonder. .
The sizzling sequel “Bound By Lies” debuted on www.amazon.com for Kindle, February 2011 to rave reviews and is still causing mouths to drop with an ending that rivals its predecessor. Both novels are considered an “underground success” and were edited by Brandie Randolph of Editing Couture.
Allison is currently focused on a collection of other works slated for release in 2011, under her imprint “Illuminnessence Publishing.” Next up to debut is a “novel for the streets” entitled “BITTERSWEET” which will drop December 2011. Allison anticipates an abundance of blessings in 2012 beginning with work on an anthology as well as promoting authors that seek her assistance in publishing via her imprint Illuminnessence Publishing.”I was blessed to enter this industry and know how hard it is, so the least I can do is give back.” she says with a gleam in her eye and a smile on her face. This native New Yorker prides herself in assisting others and promotes literacy to her children.This isnt the end of Allison otherwise known as Essence and we can tell she’s got a long way to go but the rewards have been phenomenal.
Show airs: February 5th at 8pm EST
Where: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/aambc/2013/02/06/aambc-radio-welcomes-allison-edwards
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