Day 4 of celebrating Kwanzaa one day at a time

In the mid-'60s, Dr. Maulana Karenga created Kwanzaa, an observance that honors African heritage in African-American and Pan-African cultures. From Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, these days are dedicated to the seven principles — Nguzo Saba — focusing on African philosophy that encompasses the mutual and interactive relationship with family, community, environment and the world. For more information on Kwanzaa, the principles and symbols, visit the official Kwanzaa website.

Each day at HEA, an author will embrace one of these principles and share her thoughts. Join us in celebrating Kwanzaa and enriching our lives with its beauty and truths.

Today's author: Marcia King-Gamble

Ujamaa (cooperative economics): To build and maintain our own stores, shops, and other businesses and to profit from them together.

In Swahili, ujamaa, the fourth of the seven principles of Kwanzaa, means extended family. Family goes way beyond blood. It embraces readers and author friends. We are a "collective," an unbreakable circle. Authors write, fans read, and word spreads. To my extended family, a Happy Kwanzaa. Thank you for making it possible for me to continue to write!

Marcia King-Gamble celebrates her 2013 release of Mine Forever, a sequel to Truly Mine, the Reunion series, along with Baby, I Luv U and Just You.

Here's the blurb for Mine Forever:

First titled A Reason to Love, Mine Forever is the updated version. Dr. Niki Hamilton has given up on men and focusing her attention on her patients. After three kids in her care die, she is determined to get away from nasty threats and ugly reporters, Niki goes to the Jersey Shore to visit her friend, ex-playboy centerfold, Kim. She ends up running Kim's dating service, "Coffee Mates."

Cary Thomas, a hot gardener (or so Niki thinks), arrives with plants, a sexy smile, and lots of personality. Whenever he's near Niki's hormones go into overdrive. Common sense aside, Niki embarks on a relationship with a man she thinks she has no business being with. But can love survive long distance and the threats on her life?

Michelle Monkou is a best-selling romance author who lives by the motto "live, love, and laugh." Her recent release is Racing Hearts, with Harlequin Kimani. Her website is MichelleMonkou.com.

Don't miss HEA's earlier posts about Kwanzaa: