The Skeletons of Samantha's Closet

In her book, The Skeletons of Samantha's Closet, Monique Mitchell hopes to bring about the understanding that everyone is fighting at least one discreditable thing about themselves that they wish to keep a secret.

She explained to Family and Religion that people should understand that no matter how controlled they think their life is, it can suddenly change.

According to her: "It is an understanding that there's a greater power in the universe than human and knowing that anyone can get to the place where only God can take them out, no matter how much money, affiliation, or links they have - God has the final say."

The book tells the story of a pastor's daughter who is involved with a married man.

"Keeping it a secret wasn't the issue, being stalked, perplexed, and being driven insane by the wife is the main character's deepest issue. The thing is, as sure as Samantha is that she wants this man, she still tries to gain her father's trust and love which became harder when her skeletons began to come out. Samantha was also surprised when she realised almost everyone around her and in her life had skeletons," the 26-year-old explained.

The book, which was released on August 7, has raised many concerns, especially among her fellow Christians.

Too Raunchy for Christians'?

Mitchell noted that though the feedback has been mostly good, there are those who believe that the book is too 'raunchy for Christians'.

However, the first-time author begged to differ.

"It is good for everyone, especially women. But why Christians need to get a copy, it helps us to review ourselves and not be so taboo about sex because this is something we all are faced with, yet we keep on hiding the demons that are attached to it.

Sex isn't sin, practising it out of marriage is; yet we act like talking about it will send us to hell.

The novel is more than just Samantha being a sex addict. It shows how we hide the true us on many occasions just to fit in," she said, adding that the book is a must read.

Mitchell went on to talk about others who are completely smitten by the book, some describing it as a movie and demanding a part two.

She told Family and Religion that her next move will be a book signing and women's conference.

"As a woman, myself, I was thinking about my book signing and it came to me: Why don't you do something that will benefit your buyers apart from a signed copy and talking about my upcoming books?" said Mitchell.

She added: "I decided to do a women's workshop because being a woman who loves people can be very hard in today's society, especially when you are from parishes like St Thomas, where we are quicker to fight down each other and this is one of the reasons the place is the way it is today. However, there are still those who believe it can change and I want this change so I am becoming the change."

"I am planning on having financial advisers to speak on how to live within your means, counsellors to speak on controlling emotions and so on. It will just be a weekend of self love and evaluation. I will be also be seeking sponsorship from businesses that are willing to help make the dream come true," Mitchell said.