As I write this latest Blog I am beaming with pride and indescribable joy!!! My best-est of best friends, my BFF (X) a million is coming out with her own book! And for those of you who don’t know her name is Maryam Sousan.  I met this talented young lady in college and her life was so fascinating, her beauty so breath taking that I made her the star female in my first book Swift Killas and in Swift Killas: Vengeance.

For years Maryam and I would discuss story plots, ideas, read and write poetry but alas as we got older we both went our separate ways.  Thankfully the good lord saw fit to bring us together and our friendship continued. Now although I consider Maryam a crucial part of Unique Realities I must praise her for her journey in creating her own book and giving her God given talent to rest of the world.

If you thought I my books were a “Must Have” you must pick up her book Salem El RohIt is going to be available at BookSurge.com and in bookstores near you!!! For those non-believers or maybe those skeptics I have out there I would like to show you a snippet of her book. 

Salem El roh

Hayat 'Yaya' Najar is a 25 year old Arab-American living in Chicago, IL.  Unfortunately for Yaya, however, she is losing her struggle with cancer.  She lies on her deathbed trying to relive her life in order to understand her death.  She allows the reader to go into comas with her and share in her memories.  Yaya lets the reader experience the last five minutes before she ultimately dies.  In Yaya's word, "This is the story about the last five minutes until, Salemit Rohi."  The reader, thus, becomes an integral part of Yaya's existence.

 

        The reader accompanies Yaya's last minutes as she returns even to her childhood.  She dreams of her family and the effects of western society.  Yaya struggles with Muslim and Christian relations among Arabs and tries to find God on her journey.  It is up to the reader, however, to determine whether Yaya is Arab Christian or Arab Muslim.  Her journey into death takes her across the pages of the Quran and stories of the Bible.

          Yaya's grip on reality wears thin as the minutes pass.  As her health deteriorates, her vocabulary follows.  She is left struggling to even understand her own words.  The reader experiences Death through the eyes of a young woman on its brink.  She pulls the reader further into Death by even questioning the reader's 'sanity.'

The language is Arab-American slang because it is meant to represent the general Arab public and their assimilation to American life.  She discusses Arab men and their disassociation with Arabic culture.  Yaya further attempts to understand the Palestinian struggle.  Needless to say, Yaya can't seem to focus on any subject because her mind is beginning to die.  Yaya's life is like a train wreck, but she never falters in her attempt to pull her reader into Death.

 Salem EL Roh, by M. E. Sousan Coming soon! For a free chapter preview that is not to be missed go to AuthorHouse.com OR copy and paste this link.    

http://www.authorhouse.com/Bookstore/ItemDetail.aspx?bookid=63312
Erika Long
9/7/2009 12:32:05 pm

I was a big fan of Swift Killas and just finished part two which I believe was edited by Ms. Sousan. I was very upset over the ending of Swift Killas 2 and although I will check this book out when it's in book stores, I hope it had a much more statisfactory ending. Love the Maryam character in your books and since shes a real life person I look forward to seeing her own style of writing. Re-do the ending of Swift Killas or I ain't buyin another one!

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Sandra
9/7/2009 12:47:24 pm

Hi! I am a fan of your books Orlando and so far my favorites were the Petals of Rose and The Rake. I remember in Petals of Rose you had a moment where you mention a Swift. Well although I love a manly author I am drawn towards female writers and after you recomended M.E Sousan I went to the Author house web site and looked it up. Looks very interesting from what I read but there's no link to buy it! Let me know when it's avaliable and I will be sure to add that to my collection.

~Unity for all~

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Ali
9/8/2009 03:14:43 am

Because you say buy this Orlando, this will be bought. Especially since she is the famous Maryam from the Swift Killas books. You speak so highly of this young lady and our people that I would be proud and honored to have a work of hers in my home.
~God Bless you, Unique Realities and Maryam Sousan.

Ali

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M.E. Sousan
9/8/2009 11:29:58 am

Orlando,
We have come a long way, my friend, from scribbling ideas on college ruled notebooks. The written word will never falter in its ability to intrigue and flood the shelves of cascading bookcases. I would rather my literature crumble with use than lay dormant on a book shelf. Thank you for your "blog." Conforming to this internet wave of new generation bloggers has yet to dawn on my love of the good old fashioned type writer. Never-the-less, I am humbled and most grateful by your "blog" about my up and coming book. This will spark a chain of events that will change the world. I can feel it like an oracle feels predestined future. Thanks for climbing aboard the Sousan train. Buckle your seat belts and keep hands and legs inside the vehicle at all times. ENJOY!

M.E. Sousan ~Eyes of Palestine~

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Erika Long
9/8/2009 01:12:34 pm

Wow this is Maryam? This girl can write!!!!

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Maria
9/11/2009 01:47:25 am

I love your character in the Swift Killas stories! Is there any truth to you and your character or did Mr. Santiago make up your character on a few basic personality points?
As I wrote in a different blog, I loved the scene where your character and Celena from Rogue Accord go at it and again when Swift is told that the 'Maryam' character had only two hours to live and Swift replied 'pleanty of time' that set the book for me!
I did notice that your style of writing is much different than Mr. Santiago's and that you seem to have a flair for words and I love that. I tried to look your book up at Author House and it said that it was not yet available. When it is, you will have a dedicated fan!
Any chance that the Maryam character will appear in Rogue Accord? And since Mr. Santiago is rather tight lipped about another Swift Killas book, could you maybe shed some insight?
-Maria

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M.E. Sousan
9/11/2009 05:53:38 am

Maria,

Although Santiago and I are colleagues, our styles of writing differ on a grand scale. I am hammered by your interest in my book. The style, however, is not how I write to you now. It has a slang/urban feel that is geared towards the average Joe and Jane that dominate our society. Your detection skills are undeniable fore I do have a flair for words. As for the "Maryam" character in Santiago's books, I have to say that Santiago is a master of preciseness. I will, however, reserve my opinions and allow you the opportunity of harnessing your detection skills. You be the judge. Unlike Santiago, I rarely write series novels. Salem El Roh is the only novella I have written that has a part II in the works. The book is listed as unavailable because it is currently in the production stage. Santiago prematurely blogged about its release, but fear not, you won't be disappointed. As the Maryam character would say, "It's on you, Slick. You either like it or you don't. I'm straight either way."

P.S. I LOVE your sly techniques to learn about Santiago’s “tight lipped” secrets. I regretfully inform you that my allegiance to Santiago reigns. I commend you, however, for trying. Way to go, Slick!

M.E. Sousan ~Eyes of Syria~

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Erika
9/11/2009 06:07:53 am

DAMN!!!! Did ol' girl lay down the law or what! How you just gonna up and ask for a secret of Swift Killas and not think the author's friend would shot you down. You crazy gurl.

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Ali
9/11/2009 06:13:07 am

I am curious, is the real Maryam of Arabic descend?

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Maria
9/11/2009 06:24:32 am

Wow, I did not expect Maryam to reply back!!! Let alone spark the first blog debate on this web site. That's awesome. First let me address Erika. Erika, I did not think it would hurt to see if maybe Maryam would be willing to spill a little something about her character and her role in another Swift Killas story.
Maryam, I love your style of words when you write. I have read your page on Author House twice and can not wait to see your book in my hands as well as another copy of Swift Killas. Who would have thought that I would like two authors back to back. More than anything I am honored to be called "Slick" LOL.
I trust Mr. Santiago will let us all know when your book will be available as well as any information on Swift Killas and this Rogue Accord saga he has coming. I, as a fan and as an avid reader can not wait and am shocked to read that you are already working on a sequel. That is brilliant!!!!!
-Maria

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John
9/12/2009 02:19:41 am

Wow O, seems like you have a battle of the blogs here! Love the site man! I can't believe you are promoting a fellow author, I thought you people hated each other. Mad props man. Guess the rumors of you turning over a new leaf are true. Just cause you said so I will nab this book when it comes out as I'm sure a lot of your fans will. As previously stated by one of your other bloggers, this M.E.Sousan chick can throw down with words. I don't even like to read and I swear to you, I'll read this! LOL Be cool!

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Aaron
9/15/2009 08:53:04 am

Yeah O, you got a kid with some mad talent here!!!

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Sue Horvath
9/30/2009 11:40:18 pm

So when is the book release?

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Reem 'O'
10/22/2009 01:50:03 pm

WOW, what a honor it is for me to personal know these two great authors!!! I would like to first say is Congrats Orlando on your success! The way you were able to capture the character Maryam was brillant, it couldn't have been easy unless you knew as well as you do!
You are truly a great man with great talents and deserve nothing but blessings! Thank you Maryam for introducing us!

Now Maryam (mar mar), I truly can say that I am beyond proud off you!!! You have come a long way my friend and to be able to see you blossom as you have brings me nothing but tears of happiness. I have known Maryam for 15 yrs. and even though we missed out alot of years from each others lives, I thank God for placing you back into my life when he did.

Yes readers Maryam sure has a way with words that can stop you in your track! If it was up to her she would proably reinvent the english language!!! LoL, I've never seen her lose a agruement and that also goes with me! Maryam the word Master!!!!

I know people aspect to read things like this about their friends. For me it's more, to be in a talent person life like Maryam is a honor. She is not only a beautiful women that alot of you men refer to her as HOTTIE!! Although that is true it goes deeper then that, not only can this women write but was blessed with many more talents as singing, drawing, belly dancing and a great poet writer!! There you go the cat is out of the bag!

Once everyone reads this book, people will then understand better what I am talking about! I'm telling you all that you will not be disappointed in buying and reading this book. Maryam has a very skillful way to combine two different worlds into one. From the suspense the book gives out you never want to put it down. You never know which way the book will go!!!

You may be saying that I am trying to hype up the book, well duh won't you?? Of course you would finally someone to tell the truth of the life of a Arabic Female in todays society with the battles that one culture society can bring on another and that person is someone you not only consider a friend but sister in your life!!!

Can't wait for the release party, alot of people will get chance to meet a fanastic writter!!!

I know what your dreams are and to be around to see one come true, well it no longer becomes a honor but a blessing that only God can give and I am beyond thankful he's letting me see it!!! Don't ever stop doing the gift God gave you!!!

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Maria
10/23/2009 01:39:15 pm

Wow that was deep

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Syilvia Aguilar
11/10/2009 05:34:56 am

I am a huge fan of Orlando's books but if this Maryam girl is anything like her charcater in those books then this book will be off the chain!!!!

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fatima
11/15/2009 02:28:22 pm

Hello, my name is Fatima and a fan of swift killa. Reading the blogs about this book and the brief intro of it. it comes to no suprise This book sounds amazing but be amazing. I have group of friends that we get together to discuss books we read for the month. Reading a little about the book, it will be one for the group to read. It's finally nice to see a arabic women doing something like this. so, i liked to know when the book will be out. Thank you!

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E-mail M.E. Sousn
11/16/2009 02:32:26 am

Ladies & Gentleman,

It's about that time. For those interested in contacting M.E. Sousan about her up and coming book or any other book by this author, please submit any inquiries to the e-mail below. Keep your eyes open for Salem El Roh II and other works by this author. As you already know, this author is exceptionally tight lipped about her work. Please e-mail the below e-mail address in order to receive updates, release dates, or just to say hello to M.E. Sousan.

[email protected]

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April P. Allen
1/4/2010 03:35:18 am

I ran into Orlando at his office and talked to him about his book Swift Killas Vengeance. I must say he holds Ms. Sousan in the highest reguard and he is selling the hell out of this book everywhere he goes. Whatever Maryam is paying him it will be worth it when it comes out.

P.S HUGE FAN of Swift Killas and Rogue Accord

May You Have Much Success ~April

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M.E. Sousan
1/30/2010 05:02:51 am

Greetings,

A bit of delay in the publishing process. No cause for concern. The release is upcoming. Thank you all for your interest. You will not be disappointed. If you have any questions, comments, concerns or for a free preview, email [email protected]

Salem

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Aparicio
1/31/2010 11:22:28 pm

I am so excited to be contacting you right now. I have followed Orlando's work and find him to be an interesting writer but when I met him he told me his work fades in comparison next to yours. So I tried my best to hunt down something you’ve written only to find out that you have yet to release your first book. When I have more time I look forward to e-mailing you at your Gmail account. Never have I met someone who spoke so highly of someone other than the Lord. Orlando holds you in the highest of regard and I look forward to reading your work.

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Joe
3/2/2010 11:02:22 pm

Orlando must think highly of you! He never talks about any of his lady friends but your name always seems to come up from time to time. So HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the only female that makes my boy smile. Oh and since you ain't comment on the other site, who'd you think win in a lady wooing contest between Swift and the Rake?

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Erika Long
3/2/2010 11:09:01 pm

Happy birthday Maryam, wish you all the best!

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Lulu
3/2/2010 11:38:54 pm

OMG!!! Happy Birthday Mary, that sucks that your birthday is on a wensday. Y couldn't it be on a friday? I hope you have a boat load of fun reguadless.

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John
3/3/2010 05:32:58 am

Happy birthday Maryam, wish you all the best! Can't wait for your book to drop!!!

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Aaron
3/3/2010 05:33:01 am

Happy birthday girl, PARTY TIME!!!!!

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M.E. Sousan
3/7/2010 10:38:31 am

Greetings,

As the sands of time trickle down like a soft discreet waterfall, the corners of my eyes speak of laughter and tears that have molded my character. With the onset of old age, I feel a sense of wisdom that has allowed me the gift of experience. I am neither disappointed nor disheartened with growing old. It is a sense of accomplishment and refreshment like that of a new piece of winter fresh bubble gum. Thank you for celebrating my years. Thank you for the birthday wishes. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

~M.E. Sousan~

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Will
3/23/2010 12:22:27 am

Just a quick question Mrs. Sousan,

Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Since 2005 when I read the first Swift Killas novel I have been hooked, then in 2009 when Vengeance came out I wanted to scream. With rumors and websites talking about an Origins story I must admit that I am a little scared, as many origin stories suck and really…don’t we already know about Swift’s past? But if you are writing it there must be plenty of things that we don’t know. PLEASE!!! PLEASE!!!! Tell me when the next Swift Killas book is coming out and if it will have ALL the main characters that I love. Maryam, Blood, Smooth and that bad ass Snowman character. SO I beg you to answer my question. Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins? Where is Swift Killas: Origins?

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joe
3/25/2010 07:04:00 am

big fan of santiago books, your book sounds great can't wait to read it. when is it coming out?

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M.E. Sousan
3/29/2010 09:35:54 am

Will,

I am a bit confused as to your statement regarding authorship, "But if you are writing it there must be plenty of things that we don’t know." Santiago remains the one and only author of the "Swift Killas" series. I can not divulge too much information, but I can tell you that there would be no Swift Killa were it not for these main characters. This saga follows closely the Star Wars saga in its technique and layout. Without substance there is no body, thus making any origins story a true element of plot. You merely know Swift the Assassin, but your understanding of Armando the Man is limited. Put aside your preconceived notions of other failed attempts at interesting origins stories. Trust Santiago's larger than life characters. No super hero is void of origins. Our interest in the origins of mythical creatures extends well beyond intrigue, yet we spare no criticism when discussing potentially realistic characters. It takes technique and wit to create an underground world minus the magic, sorcery, or UFO entities that often intrigue unbelievers. “Origins” builds a solid foundation to a man that could potentially be your next door neighbor. Killers are not born. They are made. What made Swift stray so far from Armando? Happy reading.

M.E. Sousan

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M.E. Sousan
3/29/2010 09:38:56 am

Joe,

Thank you for your interest. I've hit a couple of snags in terms of finding an adequate publishing company. I'll be sure to keep you posted if you'd be so kind as to forward your requests to the below email address. Happy Reading!

[email protected]

M.E. Sousan

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joe
4/1/2010 03:21:40 am

thank you and i will.

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11/23/2010 11:53:04 am

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11/23/2010 02:38:19 pm

About love, who understand how much?

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12/7/2010 10:55:10 am

不错,谢谢楼主分享

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12/10/2010 11:22:07 am

Well done and thanks to all.*

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12/19/2010 11:43:08 am

How wonderful! Break a leg*

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7/13/2012 01:56:25 am

Which is some inspirational stuff. Never knew that opinions might be this varied. Thank you for all the enthusiasm to supply such valuable information here.

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7/17/2012 02:56:06 pm

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Reem
12/20/2012 01:55:49 pm

Today I received your book and all I can say is WOW, I never cried or laughed as much as I did, you are a ARTIST all capitalized. Thank you on the dedication! Congradulations on your book, BRAVO may it be a hit!!!!

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M.E.Sousan
12/26/2012 11:43:29 am

Reem,

Thank you for the support. No need to thank me on the dedication. You were a part of its creation, and it was the right thing to do. Merry Christmas, and Happy 2013.

M.E.Sousan

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