Author Spotlight (LaShanda Michelle)

This week's author spotlight is on my sister & fellow author LaShanda Michelle. I was privileged & honored to meet her through a mutual friend. If it wasn't for her, I probably would not have a book out to this day. Anyway, show this sister some love.

Born and raised in Huntsville, Texas, LaShanda Michelle always had a passion for writing. Every since her mother, now a retired school teacher, taught her how to correctly hold a pencil, she knew writing was what she was born to do. While in school her fourth grade teacher encouraged her to submit her work in a contest to become a published writer. When she didnt win, her teacher encouraged her to hold on to her creativity because her writing would surely take her far. LaShanda remained confident and concluded that one day her dream would come true.

Throughout middle and high school LaShanda studied journalism and served on the newspaper staffs of both schools. In her junior year of high school her hard work on the paper and undeniable writing ability earned her a coveted spot as a student columnist. Her senior year she served as Co-Editor-In-Chief, and was also a member of the student literary magazine staff. During this time she also won many awards that proved her writing ability.

After graduating high school in 2000, she studied journalism for one year at Sam Houston State University before enlisting in the United States Air Force as a medical supply specialist. Her enlistment privileged her to relocate to Anchorage, Alaska, where she spent the next few years honing her craft. While in Alaska she published four books, including a bible study that tackled many hot button issues that young adults face. She also wrote and produced a stage play entitled Let No man Put Asunder... Not Even You! She was also a part of Soulicitations, a creative arts ministry that toured the city promoting Christ through poetry, music, and acting. During this time LaShanda was also featured in Crusin' For Christ, a Christian entertainment cruise, hosted by best-selling author Kendra Norman-Bellamy.

In 2009 LaShanda released Casting Down Imaginations. It chronicles the lives of two young women who leave the supervision of their parents and live life on their own as college students. Along the way they experience a number of obstacles, including an abusive relationship, an unplanned pregnancy, and unforeseen family problems that threaten their futures.

LaShanda's latest novel, Sweeter Than The Honey, was released this past May. It tells the story of Kamilah, a high school senior who is forced to learn the hard lessons of life after falling into a same sex relationship with her new friend. Problems arise when her homophobic mother finds out, and Kamilah has to choose which love she will remain faithful to. The book is available through all major book retailers. 

LaShanda’s website is: www.lashandamichelle.com