Interview with Author Sheldon D. Newton

Hello there! I’m so thrilled to let you know I have been granted a Q&A by another great book author, Mr. Sheldon D. Newton. I had the honor of reviewing three of Sheldon’s books: Genna’s Fight, Thrown Away and Genna’s Ghost. All of them are uplifting and inspiring Christian Fiction novels that depict love, kindness, patience, determination and perseverance among others. Most importantly, they promote FAITH: faith in God, faith in other people and faith in oneself. I feel so proud to be given the opportunity to know Sheldon through this Q&A and I’m so happy to share this Q&A with you.

Sheldon D. Newton is a Number One best-selling author, teacher and international speaker, whose goal is to share with others their worth and value and how to embrace and fulfill their Divine purpose. For over thirty years Sheldon D. Newton is on a mission to share the foundational and practical keys to successful and victorious living, through the application of Biblical Truths which transforms lives. He is a noted author, and the senior pastor of Jesus Christ Centered Ministries, located in Nassau, Bahamas. His teachings on Kingdom living and the power of prayer will ignite you and enable you to live effectively and produce results in your personal, family and professional life.

Sheldon is the author of many books, including the 30 day life-changing devotional, MyName is Jealous; the Number One best-selling, How To Pray & Get Results; HowTo Live The Christian Life Successfully....Victoriously; Diligence, The Master Key To Achieving YourDreams; Genna's Fight (A Novel), & Humility & the Honor Of God (which is hailed as a Christian Classic). Sheldon lives in Nassau with his wife and two children.

(-from Sheldon D. Newton’s Amazon Author Page)

Q. How do you come up with the titles for your books?

I depend a lot upon inspiration. Much of the time titles just seem to come to me. I believe in God, so I believe He brings these inspirations to my heart. Also, I can get inspired to write a book just by watching people interact with each other. Sometimes when I see a situation occur, I would run a story through my mind of how I would have wanted that situation to go. So, what I am saying is that inspiration can come from anywhere. You just have to be looking for it.

Q. When, for you, is the best time to write?

I am actually not regimented to a particular time. I write during the day, and during the night. When I get an idea for a book, the inspiration for the entire book floats around in me until I basically see the whole picture in a matter of hours, or maybe a day. Then whenever I sit down to write it just flows. It’s amazing.

Q. Who or what inspired you to write your first book?

I would have to answer that by saying I believe the Bible gave me the inspiration to write my first book. It was actually based upon a subject I was studying in the Bible. It was, of course, a non-fiction book. As it pertains to my first fiction book, I believe it may have been in part because my mom was a victim of spousal abuse. My dad drank a lot, and when he did, he became violent. My mom actually left him in order to protect me. She told me that when I was a baby, he took me and threw me against a wall. That was when she decided to leave him. I hate spousal abuse, regardless of who it comes through, husband or wife. That is probably where the inspiration came from in writing “Genna’s Fight.”

Q. What is your ultimate dream as a book author?

Truthfully, I would like to help a lot of people, and inspire them to reach for their goals and dreams. I want to give people hope. All of my novels carry a basic message. That message is that regardless of what one may have experienced, and gone through, there is still hope. They do not have to give up. I want to get my books in the hands of millions of people, and hear stories of how they helped to perhaps change their lives. I would love that.

Q. What is the best thing about being a writer?

Hmmm, well, I would answer that like this. First, I love being a writer and an author. When I saw my first book, the way I felt was indescribable. And after all the books I have written, I still feel so blessed to be able to know I am an author. Second, I get thrilled when I discover that my books are being read and enjoyed by people all over the world. I do have one more desire, and that is to one day see some of my books become movies. As an author I feel I am doing what I was born to do. It is a part of my purpose for being.

Q. What are your purposes in writing books?

My first reason for writing books is to use my God-given gift and fulfill my purpose for being. It is just in me to write, and perhaps make a meaningful difference in someone’s life. Second, I write to help others by giving them the information and inspiration they need to make better life’s choices, and therefore change things in their lives. I love helping people. It is what I live for. Third, I love giving people hope. I believe that, regardless of what one has gone through, things can change for the better if they know what to do, and how to do it. In my writings, whether fiction or non-fiction, I aim to always give someone hope. Yes, I love to entertain through my novels. But to me, just entertaining without using the vehicle of books to inspire, give hope and uplift is a waste of time. People need hope. So I trust that I can provide entertainment, yes, but hope as well.

Q. When did you realize you wanted to write a book?

I would have to say that it was probably over twenty plus years ago. I wanted to write books with Bible lessons in them. I actually did not think I could write a novel. I have a dear friend whose mind is very creative. Whenever he would describe something, I am always amazed at how his mind seems to work. He could describe a scene in a way that was astounding. He is detailed.  I often spoke with him about doing a novel. I mean, I spoke with him about him writing a novel. I never thought I had a detailed mind to write one myself. However, one day, I just decided, after writing many non-fiction books, that I would write a novel. I wrote “Genna’s Fight.” I was amazed at the awesome acceptance it received. People both here and abroad were telling me how much they enjoyed it, and I was asked to do a sequel, which I just released, “Genna’s Ghost.” Some even suggested, (on amazon) that it needs to be made a movie. I am amazed.

Q. What is your favorite book?

Of course, my all-time favorite is the Bible. My favorite novel is a book by Mark Victor Hansen and Robert Allen called, “The One Minute Millionaire.” The book is unique in that it has two sides to it. On the left hand side it is “non-fiction” on the principles of success. On the right hand side is a “novel,” a touching story about a mother who was about to lose her own children unless she ….. (Don’t want to give away the plot.) The story is so gripping, moving and inspiring that I had to read it to the end to see what would happen. I love that story.

Q. If “ Genna’s Fight” is ever turned into a movie, who would you like to play the role of “Genna” and why?

It is my earnest hope that Genna’s Fight gets turned into a movie. Domestic violence is so rampant and people who are victims to this evil need to see that they are not alone, and that there is hope and help if they desire it. I would love for either “Taraji P. Henson,” or “Thandie Newton to act the part of “Genna.” I believe that any one of them would be able to show and depict clearly Genna’s struggle and pain, as well as her power when she found her sanity and soundness. I have watched both women in movies in the past, so I know one of them can do a superb job with it. By the way, I can envision “Viola Davis” as “Carol,” and “Denzel Washington” or “Blair Underwood” as “Tom and Reggie” respectively.

Q. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

I would advise aspiring writers to realize that you have something to say. I am not asking if you have something to say. I am telling you that you do. One of my favorite authors said, and I quote, “Everyone has at least one good book in them.” This means you do have something to say. It may take you several times before you hit that one good book in you and get it out. But then again, it may come out the first time and make a “marked difference” in the life of others, and in your own life as well. So, write your book. I also would like to encourage you to “begin.” Master procrastination and get started. This is the major place where many people fail. They never start because they keep putting it off. Now why do people procrastinate? The reasons vary. Some procrastinate because they are afraid of what people may think of their writing. “Suppose they do not like it?” The truth is that most likely someone may not. But “someone” is not “everyone.” There is guaranteed to be someone who will enjoy your writing. So, write. Another fear people have is that they wonder if what they are writing will make any sense. That is what editors and friends are for. Ask for their opinion. Ask for their help. Never allow fear to stop you. Finally, develop a habit of writing every day, even if it is just for a few minutes. This will keep your mind active, and if you are consistent, and persistent, you will finish. So, these would be my advice to aspiring writers. 

Genna's Ghost by Sheldon D. Newton

Genna’s Ghost (Will she be able to winthis war?) is the sequel to Genna’sFight (Will she be able to discover her true self and get her son back intime?), an inspiring Christian fiction written by Sheldon D. Newton.

Decades had passed and Genna is now in her early seventies, a celebrated book author, extremely wealthy, married to her friend Reggie and enjoys Samuel, her son from her first marriage and Carol, her daughter with Reggie. The abuse Genna has suffered at the hands of her first husband is now a distant memory. Life seems perfect.

Then, Genna starts having strange and disturbing dreams. Her seemingly perfect world is rocked as the ghost of her painful past seems to haunt her and push her into depression and destroy the beautiful life she has with the ones she loves.

This is yet another inspiring book by author Sheldon D. Newton. It depicts the unbreakable bond that binds a family together. It shows how family members stick together and protect each other not only to keep each other safe but also to keep others safe from them.

Moreover, it portrays the importance of patience, kindness and love. Most importantly, the book shows the healing power of forgiveness: forgiving other people and forgiving oneself.

Overall, this is an enjoyable book with a relatable plot. However, the descriptions seem too detailed that they sometimes sound unnatural. Moreover, though the book can be a standalone, it can be better appreciated if the readers read the first book and the writing style can be too formal for casual and easy reading. Furthermore, some readers may find some parts of the story quite difficult to believe. Finally, there are several noticeable errors within the entire book that detract from the overall reading experience (like breath instead of breathe, mainwhile instead of meanwhile, whose instead of who’s and some misplaced quotation marks).

Congratulations to Sheldon D. Newton (@sheldondnewton) on such an enjoyable book. For more books by the author, click HERE. 

The Yoke by Darrell Dunham

The Yoke is a touching and inspiring book written by Darrell Dunham.

Since his mother’s accident, Barnabas Mitchell’s life has become a constant struggle and a series of hardships and difficulties. Just when it seems like it wouldn’t get any worse, his father left and never came back. Barnabas buried himself in his studies and did very well in school. Unlike other kids his age, Barnabas had only a few preoccupations that gave meaning to his life: taking care of his mother, writing on his journal and playing basketball.  When his mother died, Barnabas lost faith in God and in people. He fell into depression. However, out of love and respect for his mother’s memory, he soldiered on.

Bill Cushman is the good looking and charming son of a rich and influential man. He is lazy and arrogant, thinks highly of himself and less of other people. He never works for what he wanted. He cheats his way through it, uses other people to get it or simply asks his father to do something about it. Wherever Barnabas goes, Bill unexpectedly shows up and makes life harder for Barnabas than it already is.

This is a wonderful and beautifully written book about one man’s struggles and unwavering determination to live a respectable and honorable life despite the seemingly endless difficulties. It is an inspiring tale of love, courage, perseverance, integrity and faith. It shows how a man with nothing to show for himself but his work ethics and credibility can make it through and be among the best in what he does. Moreover, it depicts how God works in mysterious ways by sending someone the worst person to bring out the best in him, and using the most unlikely person to bring about the change that the best and finest people could not.

The author creates admirable and endearing characters including Sam Schultz and Kyle and Sarah Williams. In the end, however, I find Stephanie Schultz my favorite. She is patient, smart and kind and she lives by her faith through and through.

The part I like the most in the book is when Barnabas was presented a choice between ending his financial difficulties for good and doing what is right without any indication of getting anything in return. For me, it was the greatest manifestation of honorability.

However, I find some parts of the narration a little bit unnatural for fiction. Moreover, as especially mentioned in the book, a part of the court case was somehow too technical and might cause some readers’ interest to falter.

Despite those issues, I enjoyed the book immensely and I recommend it to those who are looking for inspiration and to those who simply want to feel good.

Congratulations to Darrell Dunham (@DunhamAuthor) on such a marvelous book!            

The Yoke was an OnlineBookClub.org Book of the Day on November 28^th. You may check it out at Online Book Club.

Genna's Fight by Sheldon D. Newton

Genna’s Fight: Will SheBe Able to Discover Her True Self and Get Her Son Back in Time by Sheldon D. Newton is a poignant story of one woman’s triumph over adversity and how she wins back her self-respect and more.

After years of physical, emotional and psychological abuse from her husband, Genna finds herself alone and homeless. A chance encounter with a kind and friendly truck driver, Reggie, takes her to a safe haven for battered women in California. However, Genna’s newfound peace and safety is marred by a deep longing for her son whom she is forced to leave behind. Moreover, deep down Genna’s seemingly peaceful visage lurks a dark and painful secret that pierces her soul and refrains her heart from healing.

This is a touching and memorable story of one woman’s struggle as she tries to come out of the pit life throws her into. It depicts what simple acts of kindness and compassion can do to a broken heart and a battered soul. It shows how faith in God restores hope and gives strength as He empowers the weak with His steadfast love. Most importantly, the book shows how nothing is impossible with God by your side.

It is a story of friendship, kindness, faith, hope and success. It features different kinds of love: love of a mother, love of a child, love of a friend and love of God. Ultimately, this is an inspiring story and encouraging book that will tug at your heart and will stay in your mind for a while. The author creates admirable and endearing characters. Though Genna is the main protagonist, my favorite is Reggie. He is the kind of friend everybody hopes for.

Congratulations to Sheldon D. Newton (@sheldondnewton ) on such a great book. For more books by the author, click HERE. 

Thrown Away by Sheldon D. Newton

Thrown Away: No Mommy, No Daddy, Nobody Wants Me!!! is Book 1 of The Wanted Chronicles written by Sheldon D. Newton.

Ben is a handsome and very intelligent boy of eleven when he learns the painful truth about how he ended up in the orphanage. Feeling unloved and unwanted, Ben is embittered and turns against everyone around him, even the kind and motherly Matron Ann who raises him and loves him unconditionally.

Several years have passed and it seems like life is not going to be easy for Ben because he soon finds himself in a predicament where the only one he can ask help from is God.

This is a poignant, inspiring and encouraging story of love, faith, hope, sacrifice and determination. With a steady and consistent pacing, the story begins with very emotional and heart wrenching scenes. The book continues and introduces characters that play important roles in Ben’s life. Just when the readers feel that everything is going well, unexpected twists and turns of events change the mood of the story and the readers are gripped with mixed emotions ranging from pity, sadness, admiration and even anger towards Ben. Moreover, unlike some novels which make the reader feel he is part of the story, this feels like watching a scene unfold while listening to a great narrative.

Despite the lack of elaborate physical descriptions, the characters are very much relatable and my favorite among them is Mr. Hung. He is kind and fair and a good judge of character. He knows when to set his limits and knows when to reach out to a friend in need.

However, the settings of the story are not described in details which may make it difficult for some readers to visualize some scenes. Moreover, skeptical readers may find the story unrealistic and not at all unique but just an ordinary tale with overuse ‘rags-to-riches’ theme. Finally, there are several errors, mostly typos and misspelled words which may detract from the enjoyment of reading the novel.

Congratulations to Sheldon D. Newton (@sheldondnewton ) on such a great, touching and very inspiring book! For more books by the author, click HERE.

Eight Days by Scott Thompson

Eight Days is a touching story by Scott Thompson.

Clive Kinsella had always wanted to go places. He dreamed of finding a job in a bigger city. However, that dream was set aside when he met Annabelle. When they got married, the couple settled down in Georgetown where Clive lived most of his life.

The story began with Clive's death. At his funeral, Clive met his long dead grandfather, Pachu, who had come to guide him through his Reckoning which went on for eight days. During the Reckoning, Clive got to relive the most difficult times of his life and the most difficult decisions he had made.

The author masterfully wrote a book with interesting plot and memorable characters. The writing style was top rate making the book an easy read. The scenes were vividly described and the dialogues were engaging. The narratives were so heartfelt that I cried at some point in every chapter. 

The book, though it started with death, was basically about life and the choices a person makes while he lives. It is a touching story of love, friendship, childhood, old age, life and death. The entire book was filled with food for thought and words of wisdom that would stay not only in the reader's mind but also in his heart. 

This is truly one memorable book that will make the reader contemplate on his own life, his priorities and the decisions he could live with.

Congratulations to Scott Thompson (@sthompsonauthor) for such a wonderful book.