About the Author
Chizellé T. Archie is an author, registered school nurse, mother and wife for thirteen years to her husband John Archie. She works for a private school and lives in Atlanta, GA with her family.
About the Book
Posh Manhattan investment banker Victoria Diamond Cartiér lives a life of ultimate success: owning an affluent estate in Harlem’s Hamilton Heights district, working on 5th Avenue, and having the love of her devoted husband Malcolm. But when Victoria discovers that her marriage is a lie, she uncovers a deadly horror that may threaten her belief in healing, second chances at love with Marcel and God’s providence over her diamond life.
Author Interview: Chizelle Archie
At what age did you first know that writing or becoming an author is what interested you?
To be honest, I’d say it was in middle school, it was then I was adamant about writing the class songs. [It was] coming up with lyrics for a song (rap) that would ultimately help me place as first runner up in the 8th grade talent show.
Do you have other stories you have not published?
Actually yes, as we speak I am working on the sequel to my current novel, “His Grace, His Blood, His Mercy!”
If you are already employed full or part-time what occupation/field?
I’m in, and have been for several years, the medical field, as a Registered Nurse.
Would you like to write full-time?
Yes I would.
When did you receive what you consider to be your first “big break?”
The day I heard the words congratulations, you are now a published author.
Where do you see yourself 5 years from now? 10 years from now?
Five years from now, I see myself, more stable in my writing career. Also I pray that I will have developed a more sound relationship with God, a lot stronger in my prayer life. By that time, I would hope that I would have proven myself to be a noteworthy and reputable author. And ten years from now, oh my goodness, I plan to be on an island somewhere enjoying the fruit of my labor, even though I realize my two year old daughter will not yet be a teenager yet! So please pray for me, though it would be nice by that time, if I would have written several novels, and better yet running my own publishing company. Huumm, that’s something to think about.
Were there any familial or educational influences that contributed to where you are today? Parents? Teachers?
My aunt Cynthia G. Williams first paved the way for me; she’s an author of four children’s books. “The Enid Series.” At that time when she first wrote her books, I didn’t even think it was possible for anyone such as myself to write a book, get a deal, or better yet self publish. She gave me great advice and wisdom along my journey to help me along the way, as always she would constantly let me know how much she loves me and that she is proud of me. Then there is my cousin Vincent T. Williams who did self publish his first book, titled “How to Reach Your True Destiny”, in which it is an Empowering-Motivational- Inspirational book. He too has provided countless moments of advice to help me, as well as let me know the what to do’s, and not to do’s. I love them both.
What has been your experience to becoming a published author? What would you recommend aspiring authors do to prepare for becoming a published author?
A great one, one I would not change for anything, even though in this process I have learned so much, yet, there is still so much more to learn. As far as the challenges I’ve faced, it would have to be finding the right editor. I didn’t realize so much goes into that. I thought all I had to do is just write a book, but no, there is reading and rereading, and rereading again, but first you must have a great editor from the start. Next because my book included medical facts I need it to be correct, and it had to be perfect, so this meant I had to research everything. There were times I felt as though I was in nursing school again, and in that I would recommend to anyone preparing to become published I would say, ask questions, read for yourself, find someone who has been down this road before that can help you. Furthermore, I would have to say don’t rush it; take your time, because the story is going to be there, you just have to do what it takes for it to stay there.
What other aspirations do you have?
To first be around long enough to see my little girl Freedom grow up and one day fulfill all of her dreams. To make sure she becomes the best she can be at whatever it is she chooses to be. Next, I would like to become a motivational speaker around the world, helping to bring health awareness to all of our African American sisters and brothers. Ensuring that they understand the absolute necessity of safe sex, and how important it is to take care of their physical, mental, and mainly spiritual being. Lastly, other than my writing career, I’ve always had a dream of owning a Bridal Saloon, with all the frills. A One Stop Shop!
Favorite authors?
Me of course, (laughing), Kimberla Lawson- Roby, Sistah Souljah, Eric Jerome Dickey, and Omar Tyree.
Last book read?
Honestly, it was my book. I had to read it again from beginning to end.
Do you have a favorite book? If so, what is it? (you can name more than 1)
Outside of my own, it is “The Coldest Winter Ever,” I have had it since forever; I have given it out for birthday gifts. It’s that one I can read over and over again.
Most memorable events of this year thus far . . . . and why?
The day I received my book in my hand, it was like, wow … it’s finally here. I had to caress it, love on it. It was almost surreal. Then there was my Book Premiere in my hometown of Mobile, Alabama. It was so much fun having my family and friends to share that day with me.
What’s next for you?
Prayerfully, the completion of the sequel. Watch out, because my teens I’m coming for you, too.
I am also scheduled to have a [book] signing on September 18th, at Nubian Book Store in Southlake Mall, Morrow Ga., 3-4 p.m. and I am really excited because I have my first Book Club Reading in Montgomery, Alabama with the Page Turners, can’t wait ladies!
