Prolific author Jacquelin Thomas has a passion for writing and for helping aspiring authors launch their writing careers. Thomas burst onto the literary scene in 1997 with her novel Hidden Blessings, and since that time has published more than 50 books, including her latest, Jezebel’s Daughter, which was released in June.
“I did not really pursue writing,” she said. “It was my gift that called out to me. I’ve been writing since I was in the third grade, Writing has always been my passion, and when I tried to walk away from it a few years ago, I was pulled back in by my love of written word. I also consider my writing a gift from God, and it is my ministry.”
That ministry has resulted in her expanding her career from writer to publisher.
“I have a new imprint under the Brown Girls Books banner: Jacquelin Thomas Presents. I am very excited about this venture because I get to work with new voices and fan favorites. I really love working with new writers and finding that diamond in the rough, so my imprint is more of a mentorship because I work closely with each new author to bring out the best in their projects,” she said.
Readers interested in being considered for publication can visit www.browngirlsbooks.com.
“Read the submission guidelines,” she cautions. “This is very important as I do not accept books with profanity and/or graphic sex scenes. Books published under this imprint can be classified as ‘clean reads.’”
No matter where her writing ministry leads, Thomas is very clear her first ministry is to her family.
“I tend to work Monday through Friday, reserving my weekends for family,” she said. “There are times when the two overlap, but I work hard to keep this at a minimum. My youngest is a junior in college, so it’s basically just me and my husband. I am also in grad school finishing up my M.B.A. program, so being organized is key. Time management is a strength for me and is vital to keeping my life balanced.”
Also vital is the support of her fans.
“I just want to say thanks to the readers who have stood by me for almost 20 years. I’ve published 50-plus titles, and I am just so grateful for the support of readers, book clubs, booksellers and churches,” she said. “There’s more to come.”
