Today we’d like to introduce you to Leslie Dorsett.
Hi Leslie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I began storytelling as a child. I have fond memories of my youngest sister and I creating elaborate stories to tell each other as we lay in bed before falling asleep.
Those moments of creativity and imagination have stayed with me throughout my life, fueling my love for writing and storytelling. Although I have written many unpublished poems and short stories, it wasn’t until the untimely death of my parents (my mom passed away only four months after my dad) that writing became a form of therapy for me.
One day, I found myself amid a spirited debate between two close friends – one a devout Muslim, the other a committed Christian. They had quite different opinions on religion, and their witty banter and lively wordplay made me pause and state teasingly: “I could write a book about you two.” This sparked a creative flame within me. I went home and began penning a short story, capturing the essence of their exchange.
However, that short story took on a life of its own. As I continued to write, new characters emerged, each with their unique perspectives and experiences. What started as a simple anecdote evolved into a compelling narrative, weaving together themes of faith, forgiveness, identity, and the universal struggle with morality.
I considered other titles like “Forever Friends” and “Let it Go,” but as I tapped away at the computer keys, I could hear one of my mom’s infamous sayings: “Flesh is flesh, no matter whose bones it’s on.” Immediately, I knew that would be the title. And thus, “Flesh Is Flesh” was born – a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s not about my timing, but rather God’s timing. So, for that reason, yes! It has been a smooth road (lol). However, operating in the flesh… OMG, No! I’ve faced my fair share of challenges! I embarked on this journey twenty years ago. Yes, TWENTY! That’s when the first edition of “Flesh Is Flesh…No Matter Whose Bones It’s On” was published.
At that time, many fans deemed me the “up-and-coming Terry McMillan” (lol). By the way, I admire Terry and aspire to be as great an author as she is. Well, I soon discovered that promoting and marketing a book is a beast! Since there was no social media at the time, I had to travel extensively and I spent a lot of time away from my husband and two young children. It was a struggle, until I ultimately chose them and set Flesh Is Flesh… aside.
But here we are TODAY, and not only am I making a strong comeback with the revised edition of “Flesh Is Flesh,” but I am also reintroducing my fans to the beloved characters in preparation for the soon-to-be-released sequel, “Flesh Is Flesh II: It Could Happen to You!”
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I have a strong passion for helping others navigate life, which is reflected in my writing. I started my career as a high school teacher, then a School Counselor, before becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
During my counseling journey, I have assisted numerous youths and other individuals in finding their path to happiness and have worked with couples to heal broken relationships and mend families. If a relationship is beyond repair, I strive to help individuals find acceptance and become the best version of themselves so that they can find their joy in life. My writing incorporates self-help themes, where characters overcome painful events and find strength in their faith. I aim to creatively and entertainingly reach out to people who may not typically be open to therapy, inviting them to increase their knowledge, faith, and spirituality.
What am I most proud of? I am most proud of the primary mission of Flesh Is Flesh I and Flesh Is Flesh II… which is to inspire readers to deeply reflect upon the significance of forgiveness, compassion, and true friendship. I want readers to recognize that setbacks and disappointments are inevitable aspects of life, but they do not define us just as they do not define the characters in the novel.
Instead, setbacks and disappointments provide opportunities for growth and resilience. Readers must understand that even in the face of adversity, they can overcome their challenges and emerge stronger than ever. This realization fosters a sense of compassion, as we recognize that we are all imperfect beings striving to navigate the complexities of life- Flesh is Flesh, No Matter Whose Bones It’s On.
What sets me apart from others? I have always been a creative individual, with a vivid imagination. When I close my eyes, I can visualize people, objects, and places that exist only in my mind. I have pursued various creative endeavors throughout my life. Additionally, I am an inventor and have been issued a patent for Purse Props, a compact support device that resembles a wallet but can be opened into a stand for purses or other items.
My creativity fuels my writing and adds a unique touch to my storytelling.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I’ve always been creative, always been nurturing, and always been a peacemaker. Growing up, I was a precocious child. My grandfather called me “GrandLady” because of my maturity. I was quiet in public, however, due to a speech impediment.
I was the sixth of seven children, and although some called us sheltered because we had two parents who enforced family rules, our parents insisted on teaching us the importance of standing up for ourselves.
Let’s just say, that although I was quiet and appeared docile, I was NEVER one to be bullied. I have and always will fight for the underdog.
Pricing:
- $25 Amazon
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lesliejdorsett.com
- Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/lesliejdorsett/
- Facebook: Author Leslie J. Dorsett
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ljd-lesliejdorsett
- Twitter: @lesliejdorsett
Image Credits
Jai Simone Photography
