nessrichardsonVanessa Richardson is an author, a poet, and a playwright. She is also Founder of The Certain Ones Blog Talk Radio Show and Editor-in-Chief of The Certain Ones Magazine.

Her first book, The Certain Ones: You’re Not Forsaken. You’re Chosen for Purpose is based on her personal testimony—a journey set in motion by health concerns—and the desire to inspire others. 

She recently released Love Lifted Me, the second book in her Love Inspired Trilogy. 

What sparked your writing journey?

I had been writing for years but never shared with the world. One day that would change, as I would one day have to face some health issues. I would journal my thoughts in order to cope with my circumstances. I then felt the impress to share my testimony in a book. I wrote my first nonfiction titled: The Certain Ones: You’re Not Forsaken. You’re Chosen for Purpose.

How does your faith play into your work?

My faith is pivotal in all that I do. My faith takes me places where I normally wouldn’t go. In the literary world there are more no’s than there are yeses. I have learned that sometimes you don’t have to wait; with faith, you can create!

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God sometimes sends us down an unexpected path in life—one that ultimately blesses us more than our original plan. Have you ever experienced such a “Divine Detour”?

I most certainly have! Had it not been for the health issues I have experienced; I am most assured, that I wouldn’t be the woman that I am to date. I am more patient, mindful and considerate of others. I’ve learned not to take myself too seriously. Laugh. Live. Love.

Let’s talk about Love Lifted Me (The Certain Ones Publishing, June 2014). Please tell us about it.

LLMLove Lifted Me is the second installment in my Love Inspired Trilogy. It is a deliciously cozy story that readers will take delight in.

The Guardian. Detective Eric Miller was convinced true love was not for him, his failed relationships led him to believe so. Being a man of stability and control, Eric stoically shunned love; it was too messy, too unstable. It was this very reason he resolved to put as much space as possible between him and Rayna Peterson who was as intelligent as she was enticing. Now, if only his heart would listen. 

Unexpectedly, fate would force them together when Rayna is threatened by a hidden evil. He lurks in the darkness, an elusive being. He boldly strikes at the most unusual times. Eric vowed he would let nothing harm Rayna, but to keep her safe he will have to stay very close to her. Was he willing to risk both his life and heart for her?

The Promise Woman. Attorney Rayna Peterson always knew she was a woman promised for greatness. Her faith was the center of her life, but of late the strange and evil occurrences had her doubting everything she thought she knew. For the first time in her life, she realizes faith alone isn’t enough to rescue her from this demonic pit. Feeling overwhelmed, Rayna unites with Eric. Together they battle the forces trying to destroy Rayna and everyone she loves. Will Eric’s love be the lift she needs to restore her shaken faith?

Please tell us a bit about The Certain Ones radio show and magazine.

The Certain Ones radio show is an inspirational talk show which airs live on Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. EST. We highlight and feature celebrities such as Kristoff St. John from The Young and Restless. Debi Morgan from All My Children. Gospel recording artist Ce Ce Winans. Authors Victoria Christopher Murray and Reshonda Tate Billingsley. And hosts of other phenomenal guests.

The Certain Ones Magazine is also an inspirational entity. The Certain Ones Online Magazine, Aspiring to inspire! Your #1 Resource for Ministry and Business Connections, to Inspire Into Your Destiny! Let’s us help promote and celebrate with you!

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A few fun questions…

When the words aren’t flowing—or when you want to celebrate if they are—what is your favorite comfort food and why?

My favorite comfort food—or candy rather—are Red Hot Tomales or Blow Pops! They help me concentrate or focus on the project(s) at hand.

This website features musicians as well as writers. Do you have musical, as well as literary, talent?

Unfortunately I am not musically inclined. I write songs and even had some of our actors perform them in our stage productions.

If you were a song, what kind of song would you be?

I would be an inspirational love song. Love can lift you hot of the pit of depression and rejections. It can cheer you on when you think you can’t take another step.

In the story that is your life, are you the strong, female lead; the girl next door; the mysterious woman behind dark glasses; the super heroine; or the little girl trying to walk in high heels?

I would probably be the combination of the strong, female lead; the girl next door. I am very assertive when I know what I want and when I want it; yet, I am very diplomatic in my delivery. I am mindful how I treat people. There is thing called Karma that has a way of returning to the sender. I have learned to stay par to the course, stand strong in my faith through my trials and tribulations and yet—become better and not bitter.

I’m a dog lover. Please tell us about your pets, if any, or your favorite pet as a child.

I am definitely a pet lover. I had a beautiful dog several years ago named Lear unfortunately he transitioned. That was such a heartbreak for me. When they say your pets are your family it is absolutely true! I am one day hoping to become mommy to another dog … soon!

Thanks, Vanessa. It’s nice to have you as a guest at DivineDetour.

It was my absolute delight! Thank you so much for having me!

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For more information about Vanessa, visit her website, The Certain Ones Blog Talk Radio, and/or The Certain Ones Magazine.

To purchase Love Lifted Me, logon to:

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