Sunday, June 28, 2009

A Voice from the Past: Novel Soundtrack Song 4

It never fails. Everytime you begin a new relationship, people from your past begin to seemingly drop from the sky and want to let you know how much you meant to them. It becomes a choice whether to listen to their sweet words, or focus on the new road ahead. It can be difficult, especially if they sound anything like Sade.
Is it a crime....Song number 4 in our soundtrack. She's timeless, enjoy.
(Don't forget; you will soon have a chance to win all ten songs compiled into an unforgettable DVD.)

Saturday, June 27, 2009

Next 3 novel Book Covers



For more information on any of these three novels, please click here.
You will be able to read excerpts, view book trailers, and learn much more about RL's latest projects...

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Drifting into Love: Novel Soundtrack Song 3

It happens to all of us. That moment you feel yourself falling in love. It is truly an unforgettable experience. The lyrics of this song describe what goes on inside as we begin to allow that special person to have a piece of our heart. In my novel, The Last Ms. Understanding you can experience this by reading along with each chapter. I hope you will enjoy this seasoned performer as much as I do. Song 3: Michael Franks w/ Veronica Nunn - When I give my love to you. (Don't forget, soon you will have the chance to win this compilation CD and/or DVD) Keep checking back in each week for another sensational musical performance..


Why can't baseball players get any love?

I’m sure you’ve heard of Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. But have you ever heard of Curtis Granderson or Ryan Howard? Probably not. These young stars are doing their thing on the baseball diamond. That’s right, I said baseball.

You know …wooden bat, little white ball, homeruns. For a while now I’ve wondered why baseball players don’t seem to be so popular. Let me ask you; Do you even watch baseball?

If not, why not?

In my debut novel, The Last Ms. Understanding, the lead male character is a former baseball star.

Myself, I grew up watching the game and I still do. But, when Michael Jordan stepped onto the scene in the mid 1980’s and became a global icon it seemed like every kid laced up his sneakers and threw down their baseball gloves.

Why do you think baseball has lost its popularity? What will it take for baseball players to get some love?

Oh, by the way…In 2009 Ryan Howard, a baseball player on the Philadelphia Phillies will make $15,000,000 compared to LeBron James $14,400,000. Go on, admit it. Baseball’s starting to look better already….

(Detroit Tiger, Curtis Granderson, shown above)

The C word...Commitment

Every man and woman's commitment expectations are different, and that's perfectly fine. A committed relationship is not something that just happens because you've been with the same person for a certain period of time, so things "naturally" progress into a committed relationship. We all know that's not what happens.

What happens alot is that one partner finds him or herself feeling committed but doesn't sense the same level of commitment from the other person.
Getting someone who doesn't seem ready to commit or resists commitment to commit is probably one of the most difficult things to do. Just as you can't insist that someone love you or love you back, you can't insist that someone commits to you.

What do you do if you are ready for a commitment and the other person doesn't seem quite there yet?
Do you just wait for him or her to commit to you -- and to the relationship?

It's important to remember that while resistance to commitment can sometimes seem like your world has come to a standstill, resistance to commitment can also be healthy. It can act like brakes slowing it down and allowing you to see things more clearly (is this person right for you) and also manage the process at the pace that is comfortable to you emotionally and financially.

With that said, it's not a very good idea not to wait too long before bringing up commitment.
Things might just get too comfortable to change...

Sunday, June 21, 2009

Discussing Money Matters...

Men and women are always curious about how to engage each other in conversations about money. What questions are OK to ask? When do you start asking direct questions about money? Everybody wants to be sure they are financially compatible before they commit to a long-term partnership, but very few are comfortable talking about the issues. Being able to accurately assess financial compatibility is an essential aspect of the dating process and can also be a helpful skill in existing relationships as well. Money issues come up sooner or later so you might as well be up front from the start. Your money personalities do not have to be the same as the people you are dating or even the same as your ideal partner’s.

The critical question is how do the differences affect you? Can you live with the consequences that may result from the differences? Some differences can be easily accommodated. Some differences can cause uneasiness in your relationship resulting in resentments that outlive the love. Is it wise to discuss money matters while dating? If so, when is a good time?

Visit RL Taylor's website for exceprts,info, and free offers at - http://www.rltayloronline.com

What Others Have Said


Praise for

The Last Ms. Understanding


“RL's debut novel, The Last Ms. Understanding ignites a hope and belief in true love and the ability for anyone to change. This novel is for the lover in all of us. RL's ability to creatively describe a scene puts the reader smack dab in the middle of the drama. Awesome!”

-Ann Thomas, Founder of Mind, Body, and Soul Productions



“...promotes real emotions that reveal the power of what a true misunderstanding can unleash”

-Shana M. Jackson, Founder and President, Serenity Women’s Circle


“After reading this I agree that RL is the romance novelist of the future” -Demetrius Mannheim, author of Rise Beyond the Shadows


“The thing that amazes me is how real the story is. Anyone can relate to the experiences and emotion within each page. RL has captured the feelings and frustrations of being in love” -CeeGii, Contemporary Poet


Comments from Readers


“The Last Ms. Understanding was an excellent read. It kept my interest from beginning to end. The characters were so intriguing. Each time a new secret was revealed it added to the drama surrounding them all. RL you did it the right way - straight up good! I can't wait to read more from you”


“I loved The Last Miss Understanding! I loved the story and I like your style of writing. I'll definitely buy your other works!”


“I have to say that I really enjoyed your book. This book was a good surprise. I like the climax of the book and how it made me want to find out what happened to the characters. Lee was a character that most females can relate to dealing with…other authors better watch their back!”


“Great, sophisticated deep insights into relationships…”



Thursday, June 18, 2009

When Love Calls: Novel Soundtrack Song 2

In The Last Ms. Understanding a long phone conversation results in feelings of wonder. I'm sure all of us have spoken on the phone to that special someone for the first time and felt a connection. This weeks performance is by Kem and the lyrics to this song sum up what it's like to fall in love. There really is nowhere to hide when love calls... Please enjoy.
(Please check back to see how you can win this compilation CD) Each week another video will be released on this blog, until ten unforgettable performances are compiled. From there an opportunity will be given to win not only a free copy of the Shades of Romance Magazine 2009 Readers Choice Book of the Year (The Last Ms. Understanding), but also a Live Video DVD compiling all ten performances.

Serenity Women’s Circle President weighs in on the Mother/Son Relationship Factor

How many of us have heard the term momma’s boy? This usually has a negative connotation to it. The debate over this continues to rage on. It is natural for a mother and son to have a close relationship. But what happens if the opposite happens? So many times women are told that it is a bad idea to settle with a man who has a rocky relationship with his mother. It really can be cause for concern if he has no respect for his mother at all. Would you continue the relationship with your man if he seemed to have a lack of respect for his mother? What if he seemed like a good man overall?

Shana M. Jackson is the Founder and President of Serenity Women’s Circle. She is the guest blogger this week. Serenity Women's Circle is a nonprofit organization founded by women for women. They provide special programs in order to empower, educate, and serve the entire population of Mississippi. Serenity Women's Circle especially dedicates their organization to reach out to women and children due to the high percentage of women and children issues in the state of Mississippi. Serenity members are involved to help become positive role models for women and children. For more information or to get involved visit their website today: http://www.serenitywomenscircle.org/

Sunday, June 14, 2009

Dating a Successful Woman

Almost all men hate to admit that a successful woman intimidates them. A lot of men also find it extremely hard to even approach successful or wealthy women due to the fear of rejection. Not only is it about the wealth, but also the level of education. We live in an age of technology and competition, where more and more women are achieving more success than males. Not only can this hurt a man’s ego but it can also cause social insults.

Many men in this situation have found it difficult to mingle with colleagues and friends of their girlfriends, dates, or spouse. If he does not have the same status the he may fear being treated differently among her higher class social groups. This may cause a multitude of problems. Many times, if success levels are not equal, the relationship suffers in the long run, no matter the extent of the initial connection.

If you are a successful woman have you ever dated a man on a lower financial level than you? What do you think is the biggest reason that men are intimidated by a successful woman? Do financial or educational levels have to be equal for a relationship to last?


For a chance to win a free copy of The Last Ms. Understanding, all you have to do is comment on this blog post.

Random entries will be chosen weekly. The winner will be notified by email. The prize is listed for each drawing, no substitution may be requested. All entrants must be 18 years of age or older .Winner grants the right to use his or her name on the website to announce the winner of the contest. Privacy notice: Your information is NEVER sold or redistributed.

Friday, June 12, 2009

The Stage is Set: Novel Soundtrack Song 1


Eric Darius is seen here live performing "Steppin Up".
In my novel the scene largely revolves around a popular jazz nightspot (Charlie's Lounge) where people go to have a good time. It is there that the main characters Rita Clark and Lee Johnson meet for the first time. Smooth jazz is in the background as they conversate, and I imagine that they and you the reader would enjoy these sounds. I know that I do. Please enjoy this spectacular video from an amazing jazz artist. This is fittingly the first song from The Last Ms. Understanding Musical Soundtrack.
(Please check back to see how you can win this compilation CD)
Each week another video will be released on this blog, until ten unforgettable performances are compiled. From there an opportunity will be given to win not only a free copy of the Shades of Romance Magazine 2009 Readers Choice Book of the Year (The Last Ms. Understanding), but also a Live Video DVD compiling all ten performances. This, you will not want to miss. Check back each week to see what song will be chosen next....

Excerpt from The Last Ms. Understanding

The instant Lee lifted his head from staring into his drink, he saw her. His mind shifted expeditiously as he sat up trying to keep a cool look glued to his face. Keith and Uncle Charlie both already needed to wipe the drool from the corners of their dry chapped lips. Those two talked a good game but usually settled for local regulars who were odd shaped and low on intelligence.

He desired to meet someone with substance, a lady with classy style. Someone like this mystery woman who just walked in was exactly what he envisioned for himself. You could tell by the way she glided across the floor that she wasn’t from around there. He kept thinking to himself that she had to be lost. Somehow she just didn’t fit in with the crowd filled with locals who grew up together but never found the courage to leave. He knew if he didn’t act fast, that some ridiculous looking clown, clad with polyester pants and knock off cologne would approach her, equipped with an act of buffoonery within minutes.

Without speaking, he instinctively removed himself from the bar progressing towards the stranger whose enchanted face danced beneath dim light. Her body language exuberated confidence. Her face was to be desired. Everything about her from the way her wavy hair complimented her face, down to her model like shape was in perfect place. Even her feet were gorgeous as he watched her take a seat. She sat alone at a table near a window, looking slightly bored.

“Where’s he going? Where’s he going?” Keith asked as he and Uncle Charlie slap boxed playfully, bouncing up and down like children wanting to be picked up.

Lee knew exactly where he was going and he wasn’t about to blow it by hanging around with his usual crowd. He dispersed from their vicinity, eager to approach her. Out of the corner of her eye, the lady noticed the well built former athlete moving in her direction. As a waitress passed by shouldering flutes of Moet & Chandon White Star champagne Lee grabbed two glasses and kept moving like you see in the movies.

Perhaps being Charlie’s nephew had its perks to go along with years of poor advice? Lee’s father died young and Charlie was his mother’s brother who to his credit stepped in to fill the void.

He stepped within a few feet when she glanced his way her eyes looking up at him, leaving him momentarily paralyzed. Her long eye lashes hovered over her light brown Asian inspired eyes.

Lee extended his hand. “Oh I’m sorry, can I sit down, I mean are you…” He stumbled over his words like an old drunk at midnight. Feeling sorry for his audible error, an invitation was extended to sit down by way of a hand gesture. She moved so gracefully, almost like she was below the oceans surface. Her jewelry shined radiantly, a tasteful mixture of gems and semi-precious stones adorned her neck, wrist, and fingers.

She shook his hand. “Rita Clark, nice to meet you,” she said. Her voice sounded better than she looked. The smoky sound was laced with proper tone and pronunciation.

“Lee Johnson. The pleasure is all mine,” he said. One thing was for sure, Lee had to step his game up, and it was unequivocally clear by the Burberry perfume that intoxicated his nose she wasn’t like the ladies from around town. He breathed deep to take in the fragrance again. She sipped her champagne slowly.

“I’ve been in town for a few weeks now,” she explained, “I bought one of the new lofts not far from here and commute to the city for work.”

Lee was familiar with the lofts she was referencing. He used to play baseball behind those once abandoned buildings as a youngster. He toured one of them at an open house when they first remodeled the once vacant furniture factory. Reality was he couldn’t afford half of a payment they were asking for the loft.

The brief conversation was moving along exceptionally. She was smiling and laughing at his usual charm while he continued to speak with confidence. Keep your cool he kept telling himself.

“What do you do for work?” Lee asked, doing his best to sound professional.

“I’m a CPA, I just started a job with a firm in the city but I wanted to live out a little. I’m tired of the hustle and bustle of the city. I needed a change,” she continued, “and when the opportunity came to head up Jackson & Fitz Accounting Division, I jumped at it.”

“You run the company?” Lee asked.

She laughed playfully with a sparkle in her eyes. “Oh, you don’t think a woman can handle her business?”

Even her teeth were perfect, along with her laugh. Perfect.

“I’m the first female COO in the company’s eighty-five year history and I’m proud of that,” she said. She took another small sip of champagne. Her glossed lips shined as Lee watched them closely. “Enough about me, what do you do?” she asked.

Lee froze. Panic stricken, he felt his body temperature rise and a little trickle of sweat slowly rolled down the center of his back. “I work at Home Towne Mailers as the first shift supervisor.” Lee looked down; his eyes fluctuated left to right.

“That’s great, have you been there long?” she asked with interest.

“Yea, ten years now,” he said while shrugging his shoulders. The player façade he once had was now removed, and Lee didn’t feel much like conversing. Somehow ex-baseball player and bulk mail supervisor didn’t seem so fascinating matched up with accounting firm COO.

“Stability…I like that in a man,” she said. Rita smiled as she talked. “I’ll tell you what Lee, I have an engagement in the morning and I just wanted to check this place out. A girl at work recommended it to me. Why don’t we exchange numbers and talk sometime.” She reached into her pecan brown leather Coach bag and handed him a business card.

“I’d love to talk again. You know what… I’m all out of business cards here’s my number.” Lee tried to sound cultured as he scribbled seven digits on a soiled wrinkly napkin. Within moments she was gone after politely thanking him for the champagne.

As he walked back towards the bar, he watched her pull out of the parking lot in a brand new silver two door Audi TT 3.2 coupe. Lee lethargically dropped his head, still rubbing the business card she gave him as if he was consoling it. Inside his head he was thinking, maybe this time he was in over his head, and perhaps out of his league. His good looks could always get his foot in the door, but this door wasn’t like any other he’d knocked on.

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