Against All Odds 2008 Virtual Book Tour

From Dawn to Dusk
Niambi Davis
Parker Publishing, May 1st, 2008
$10.95 US; ISBN-10: 1600430368



Meet Bilal and Ayo, two people who are polar opposites in every way. He’s 32 and she’s 42. Bilal is ready to get married and start a family. Ayo, on the other hand, is a comfortably relaxed, in- her own skin widow with a 20 year old son. And she's certain her child-bearing days are over. Bilal is Muslim, and Ayo is most certainly not. Neither Bilal's father, nor Ayo's son are too happy about the relationship. These two, having nothing in common, would struggle to even hold a conversation, much less fall in love? And after their disastrous first encounter, you’d think it was impossible. Or is it?


Niambi Brown Davis, debut author of From Dawn to Dusk, has asked me this question, "Which of these issues - older woman/younger man, different faiths, disgruntled family members, late in life motherhood/infertility issues - has the potential to wreck the most havoc on Ayo and Bilal's relationship and keep them from walking down the aisle?"

Now, of course, you know that being the Diva that I am, I was more than up for the challenge. So, check out my heartfelt response below and watch how a Southern Diva smoothly sets the stage and then exits.

MY RESPONSE

Tina Turner asked the world "What's love got to do with it?" in the 80's. It became a mantra for many. She must have been talking about Ayo and Bilal. I'm mean really, how could she not have been? Getting to the love is just a small part of what these two characters have to deal with.

How about being on opposite ends of the spectrum on just about everything?

She: 42
He: 32
(Ok-not OPPOSITE ends of the spectrum, but a serious gap, at least)

She: Christian
He: Muslim

She: Has an adult child who ain't trying to hear no mess about his mama and some man
He: Has a daddy who ain't trying to hear no mess about his child and some cougar

She: Not sure if she can have anymore children
He: Definitely wants kids

So, what is the biggest obstacle in this relationship? What will keep them from getting across the broom?

Age ain't nothing but a number. But they have to make the decision to not let it get in the way.

Religion is a way to express spirituality. They have to make the decision to respect one another's beliefs.

While their respective family members may not like the person they are choosing to spend the rest of their lives with, Ayo and Bilal have to make the decision to live their own lives and be true to themselves.

As for children, they need to know what their options are and decide upon a course of action.

In short, the biggest obstacle to this relationship is not fully committing to it in every way. Falling in love is the easy part. Deciding to live life on your own terms- now that's a whole 'nother ball game.