Books
PUBLISHED AND COMING SOON
The single parent chronicles
Living a life of Purpose
She wrote through the storm
The price of power
The price of power
In Seven Years
She wrote through the storm
In the midst of chaos, pain, and heartbreak, she found her pen—and refused to let go. UNSHAKEN is more than a book. It’s a testimony. A raw, powerful journey of a woman who dared to write through her storm when the world expected her to break.
Every chapter echoes her resilience. Every word bleeds truth. Through betrayal, abandonment, loss, and moments of deep silence, she kept going. She turned tears into ink, wounds into wisdom, and scars into strength.
This is not just her story—it’s every woman’s story who has ever been knocked down, silenced, or overlooked… but chose to rise anyway.
UNSHAKEN is a reminder that storms don’t last forever, and when your voice shakes—write anyway.
The Single Parent Chronicles
Read with Pela Chaps
EMBRACING THE JOURNEY – THE
STRENGTH IN YOUR STORY
Introduction: The Reality of Single Parenthood
No one dreams of becoming a single parent. Whether it
happens through separation, divorce, an unplanned
pregnancy, or even the death of a partner, single parenthood
is rarely a chosen path. Yet, here you are, carrying the weight
of raising a child alone, navigating a world that often feels
unforgiving and full of judgment.
The moment you realize that you are truly alone in this
journey, a mix of emotions floods in fear, uncertainty,
sadness, anger, and even guilt. Society often places unfair
labels on single parents, especially single mothers. You are
either “too strong” or “not strong enough.” You are pitied or
blamed. You are either struggling or “doing just fine”
because you have no other choice.
But the truth is, being a single parent is not a weakness it is
a testament to resilience. You are stepping up, doing what
needs to be done, and proving that you and your child
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deserve love, stability, and happiness, even if it looks
different from what you once imagined.
This chapter is about embracing your journey, accepting the
struggles, and recognizing your unbreakable strength.
- The Different Paths to Single Parenthood
Single parents come from all walks of life. No two stories
are the same, but the struggles often are. You may have found
yourself here because:
A Toxic or Abusive Relationship You had to leave for your
safety or your child’s well-being.
A Relationship Ended A painful breakup, separation, or
divorce forced you into single parenthood.
An Unplanned Pregnancy You made the brave choice to
keep your child, even when the other parent walked away.
A Loss You lost your partner, and now you’re left to raise
your child alone.
But his operations taken together are so insignificant, a little chipping, baking, patching, and washing, that in an impression so grand as that of the world on the human mind, they do not vary the result.
A Personal Choice You decided to have and raise your child
alone.
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Whatever brought you here, the reality remains the same:
You are parenting alone, and it is hard but not impossible.
The Judgment & Stigma of Single Parenthood
For many single parents, especially Black women, there is
an added layer of stigma. Society often romanticizes the idea
of two-parent households and sees single mothers as a result
of “bad choices” rather than strong individuals making the
best of a difficult situation.
You may hear things like:
“You should have picked a better man.”
“Maybe if you acted differently, he would have stayed.”
“A child needs both parents.”
“You’re strong you’ll be fine!” (As if you have no right to
struggle.)
These statements are not just hurtful they are harmful. They
ignore the complexities of relationships, the unpredictability
of life, and the fact that sometimes, you don’t choose to be a
single parent it happens to you.
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The shame society places on single mothers can create deep
feelings of guilt and self-doubt. It can make you feel like you
are failing, even when you are doing your best. But let’s be
clear:
Being a single parent does not mean you have failed.
It does not mean you or your child are incomplete.
It means you are strong enough to keep going, even when
life doesn’t go as planned.
Shifting Your Mindset: From Struggle to Strength
Being a single parent is hard, but how you see yourself in
this role will define your experience. You are not just getting by “you are rebuilding, reclaiming, and growing
/
THE BEGINNING OF THE CONSPIRACY
In the heart of London, nestled within a nondescript building, a covert team prepared to confront the shadows lurking behind the world’s power structures. Led by the unflappable Lex, the group had earned a reputation for unearthing truths that others feared to face. Tonight, they gathered to embark on a mission that would test their resolve and unity.
The dimly lit room buzzed with a palpable tension as Lex stood before her team, her presence commanding attention. Her sharp eyes scanned the faces of her colleagues: Melissa, the former journalist with an insatiable curiosity; Shawn, the tech genius whose fingers danced effortlessly across keyboards; Will, the seasoned field agent with nerves of steel; and Peggy, the master of disguise and infiltration.
“We’ve received intel about a clandestine meeting scheduled for tonight, involving high-profile individuals suspected of orchestrating a series of global manipulations,” Lex began, her voice steady. “Our objective is to gather evidence of their involvement without alerting them to our presence.”
Melissa leaned forward, her brow furrowed. “Do we have any specifics on the attendees?”
Lex nodded. “A prominent politician and a corporate magnate, both with ties to recent geopolitical events.” Shawn’s fingers paused over his laptop. “Security measures?”
“Sophisticated but not impenetrable,” Lex replied. “That’s where you come in.” Will exchanged a glance with Peggy, both understanding the gravity of the situation. “What’s our cover?”
.
“Peggy has secured positions for us as staff at the venue,” Lex explained. “We’ll blend in, observe, and extract without leaving a trace.”
The opulent ballroom of the Grand Meridian Hotel gleamed under crystal chandeliers, a façade of elegance masking the sinister dealings set to unfold. Guests in tailored suits and designer gowns mingled, unaware of the covert operatives in their midst.
Dressed as serving staff, Lex and her team navigated the crowd with practiced ease. Melissa balanced a tray of champagne flutes, her eyes and ears attuned to snippets of conversation. Shawn, stationed near the sound booth, discreetly accessed the hotel’s security feeds. Will monitored entry points, while Peggy, posing as the event coordinator, ensured their covers remained intact.
As the evening progressed, Lex noticed a subtle shift in the atmosphere. A group of men gathered in a secluded corner, their hushed tones and guarded expressions betraying the gravity of their discussion. Recognising the politician and magnate among them, she singled to Melissa.
Melissa approached the group, offering champagne with a disarming smile. As glasses were taken, she activated a discreet recording device concealed within the tray. Fragments of their conversation reached her ears—mentions of “leverage,” “influence,” and a cryptic reference to “Project Dominion.”
STAYING IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD
Living A Life Of Purpose
This soul-nourishing guide takes you on a journey into the heart of spiritual living, showing you how to nurture an intimate, daily connection with the Divine. Through a blend of personal reflections, scriptural insights, and practical spiritual exercises, the book unveils ways to recognize God’s guidance in every facet of your day—from the quiet moments of solitude to the rush of everyday challenges. It invites you to set aside time for meditation, prayer, and reflection, encouraging you to listen deeply for God’s voice in your heart. By cultivating these practices, you begin to live with greater clarity, purpose, and peace, stepping confidently into a life aligned with Divine will and love. Whether you’re seeking to overcome life’s hurdles or deepen your faith, this book is your companion on the path to a more purposeful and God-cantered life.
The Single Parent Chronicles
A Loss You lost your partner, and now you’re left to raise
your child alone.
A Personal Choice You decided to have and raise your child
alone.
A Toxic or Abusive Relationship You had to leave for your
safety or your child’s well-being.
Rebranding: Reclaiming Yourself
RECOGNIZING A TOXIC RELATIONSHIP
The First Step: Acknowledging the Truth
4
Denial keeps us stuck, but awareness is the first step to
freedom.
Admitting you’re in a toxic relationship isn’t
weakness—it’s strength.
The Illusion of Love
Toxic relationships often start with intense love and
affection (love bombing).
The shift from kindness to control is gradual, making it
hard to notice.
You may feel emotionally drained, but still cling to the
hope that things will go back to how they were.
Signs You’re in a Toxic Relationship
Control – Your partner dictates your choices, from
what you wear to who you spend time with.
Emotional Manipulation – Guilt-tripping, gas lighting,
or making you feel like everything is your fault.
Isolation – They slowly cut you off from friends and
family .
Walking on Eggshells – You feel anxious about their
reactions and avoid conflict to “keep the peace.
”
Lack of Respect – Your opinions, feelings, or
boundaries are ignored.
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Hot-and-Cold Behaviour – One day , they make you feel
loved; the next, they are distant or cruel.
The Moment You Realize Something’s Wrong
You start questioning your happiness.
You feel exhausted and unfulfilled in the relationship.
You wonder why love feels more like a battle than a
safe place.
You might even blame yourself, thinking,
“Maybe I’m
the problem.
”
Why We Stay
Fear of Being Alone – You worry that leaving means
never finding love again.
Hope for Change – You believe they can go back to the
loving person they once were.
Emotional Manipulation – They convince you that no
one else will love you.
Cycles of Apology – After a toxic episode, they
apologize and promise to change, giving you hope.
Rebranding: Reclaiming Yourself
The Illusion of Love
Toxic relationships don’t always start toxic. If they did,
we wouldn’t stay . Instead, they start with intense
passion—grand gestures, deep conversations, and the
overwhelming feeling that this person sees you in a way
no one else ever has. It feels like fate. And that’s exactly
how they want you to feel.
Toxic partners often “love bomb” in the beginning. They
shower you with affection, attention, and promises of
forever. They make you feel special—like you are the
most important person in their world. You start to
believe this love is different, stronger, unbreakable.
But slowly , things begin to shift. The warmth turns cold.
The kindness turns into criticism. The love you thought
was unconditional starts to feel like something you have
to earn. And before you know it, you’re no longer in a
fairy-tale—you’re in a cycle of confusion and pain.
Signs You’re in a Toxic Relationship
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If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to take a
hard look at your relationship:
Control Disguised as Love – They don’t ask who you’re
with; they demand to know . They don’t suggest what you
should wear; they criticize your choices until you
change. What seems like a concern is control.
Emotional Manipulation – They twist situations to
make everything your fault. They gaslight you—
making you question your memory, perception, and
reality. They make you feel guilty for things that aren’t
your fault.
Isolation – At first, they don’t like your best friend.
Then they don’t trust your family . Slowly , your circle
gets smaller, and before you know it, they are the only
person you have.
Walking on Eggshells – You constantly censor yourself
to avoid setting them off. You hesitate before speaking,
afraid of how they’ll react. You feel more anxious than
happy around them.
Lack of Respect – They dismiss your feelings, make
jokes at your expense, or belittle you in front of others.
When you bring it up, they call you “too sensitive.
”
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Hot-and-Cold Behaviour – One moment, they are your
biggest supporter; the next, they tear you down. They
keep you emotionally off-balance, never knowing
which version of them you’ll get.
The Moment You Realize Something’s Wrong
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Strength in the Struggle – Trusting God’s Purpose in Every Season
Chapter 1: The Power of Contentment
📖 Philippians 4:11 – “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”
⸻
Contentment—it’s a word we hear often, but what does it truly mean? Does it mean settling for less? Does it mean ignoring hardships and pretending everything is fine? Or is it something deeper, something more powerful?
In Philippians 4:11, the Apostle Paul speaks from experience when he says, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” These are not the words of a man who lived an easy life. Paul endured shipwrecks, imprisonment, betrayal, hunger, and persecution—yet he discovered a secret: contentment is not found in circumstances but in God.
What is True Contentment?
The world often tells us that contentment comes from external success—more money, a bigger house, a perfect relationship. But biblical contentment is different. It’s about peace in every season, trust in God’s plan, and joy that isn’t dependent on circumstances.
Paul didn’t say, “I have always been content.” He said, “I have learned.” Contentment is something we develop through experience, challenges, and faith. It’s not about being complacent—it’s about knowing that God is enough, no matter what we face.
📖 Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”Personal Reflection: The Israelites’ Discontent – When God’s Provision Feels Like Not Enough
The Israelites had witnessed one of the greatest miracles in history—their deliverance from slavery in Egypt.
✔ They saw the Red Sea part before their eyes.
✔ They were freed from years of oppression.
✔ They had a direct promise from God—a land flowing with milk and honey.
Yet, despite all this, they grumbled.
💔 “We had better food in Egypt!” (Exodus 16:3)
💔 “Why did God bring us here to die?” (Exodus 14:11)
💔 “We’re tired of this manna—we want something better.” (Numbers 11:5-6)
In Seven Years
CHAPTER 1: OPERATION BLACK DIAMOND
FLASHBACK – THE PROPOSAL
Scene opens in the garden of their new home. Early
evening. String lights hanging from the gazebo. The fire pit
is lit, glowing softly. There’s a quiet R&B instrumental
playing in the background. Melissa is barefoot, in a soft
robe, standing in the doorway with a wine glass in hand.
MELISSA (smiling):
“Frank, this is beautiful. You really outdid yourself.”
FRANK (grinning, walking toward her):
“You’ve done so much for me, Mel. This… this is nothing
compared to what you deserve.”
He takes the glass from her hand, sets it down, and holds
both of hers.
FRANK (softly):
“I still remember the first time I saw you. That church
camp. The way you were worshipping—eyes closed, hands
3lifted. I told myself, ‘That’s the kind of woman who brings
peace to a man’s life.’ And I was right.”
MELISSA (laughs softly, blushing):
“Stop it…”
FRANK:
“No. Listen to me.” (He looks her dead in the eyes.)
“I came from nothing, Melissa. And everything I’ve been
building… I couldn’t have done it without you. You
believed in me when I was nobody. You gave me more
than love—you gave me purpose.”
He reaches into his jacket pocket. Melissa gasps. He lowers
to one knee.
MELISSA (hands covering her mouth):
“Frank…”
FRANK:
“I’ve never met a woman like you. You’re the Proverbs 31
woman I prayed for. You’ve prayed with me, worked
4beside me, built with me… And if you’ll let me, I want to
spend the rest of my life building with you. As your
husband.”
He opens the box. The ring glitters.
FRANK (smiling):
“Melissa Matope… will you marry me?”
Melissa is already crying. Nods before she can even speak.
MELISSA (whispers):
“Yes. A million times yes.”
He slides the ring onto her finger, stands, and pulls her
into a tight embrace. Firelight dances behind them. The
music swells. The camera would hold this moment just
long enough for the audience to believe… this was real
love.
Cut to Present Day (Train)
Melissa closes her eyes. Her finger instinctively touches
the space where the ring once sat.
5“You gave me more than love—you gave me purpose.”
She exhales slowly and turns the page in REBRANDING.
Present Day – Back on the Train
FLASHBACK – Year 8
She stood at the kitchen counter, sorting groceries—
apples, oat milk, his favorite scotch bonnet sauce. It was
an ordinary moment. But the tension was already in the air.
Frank leaned in the doorway, arms folded, face unreadable.
FRANK:
“Did you change the password on our joint account?”
MELISSA (carefully, without turning):
“Yes… just a precaution. We agreed to move some savings
for the garden upgrade.”
He didn’t respond immediately. Just walked in slowly,
almost too casually. She could feel the shift in the air
behind her.
FRANK (quietly):
6“You should’ve told me first. We don’t do secrets.”
She paused, her hand hovering over the apples.
Secrets? That wasn’t what this was. Or… was it?
MELISSA:
“It’s not a secret, Frank. It’s a boundary. I just needed to…
keep track better.”
FRANK (soft laugh, but no warmth):
“Mmm. Sounds like a divorce move.”
He stepped closer. Close enough that she could smell the
cologne he always wore—sharp, calculated, just like his
tone.
FRANK:
“You planning something, Mel?”
She turned to face him, forcing a light smile she didn’t
quite believe in.
MELISSA:
7“No. Of course not. I’m just… I’m trying to be responsible.
I’m tired of things slipping through the cracks. I didn’t
mean anything by it.”
He stared at her—too long. Too still. His jaw shifted, like
he was biting back something worse.
FRANK (calm but cold):
“Careful, Mel. You start treating me like the enemy… you’ll
become one to me.”
Her stomach turned.
Something in his voice didn’t match the words.
She remembered how the apples bruised beneath her grip.
How the silence that followed felt louder than any scream.
She had apologized later. Said she was just anxious.
And he had forgiven her—with a smile that didn’t reach his
eyes.
She’d gone to bed that night thinking maybe she was
overreacting.
8Maybe she was too sensitive.
Maybe she was the problem.
But now, years later, sitting on a train with REBRANDING
open on her lap, she knew.
She wasn’t overreacting.
She was waking up.
The train hummed steadily as it passed York, the sky
outside bruised with soft clouds. Melissa hadn’t noticed
how much time had passed. She was already deep into
Chapter Three of REBRANDING—and just like the
countryside blurring by, the years she’d buried were
starting to resurface.
“The first step to breaking free isn’t physically leaving—it’s
mentally acknowledging that you deserve better.”
The sentence sat on the page like a quiet dare. Melissa
stared at it, her eyes suddenly glassy.
She leaned back in her seat, closing the book for a
moment—but not because she was done.
9Because she was remembering.
Feeling.
Facing.
Three chapters in, and her mind was already full.
Full of warnings she hadn’t seen.
Of signs she’d excused.
Of boundaries she hadn’t known how to set.
The couple beside her laughed softly over a phone screen.
A child down the carriage squealed in delight. Life was
happening around her, but inside, she was rewinding.
Back to church camps.
To that garden proposal.
To whispered apologies after louder arguments.
To camera wires hidden under the eaves
Coming Soon
Conspiracy Unbound. The web of lies.
CHAPTER 1: OPERATION BLACK DIAMOND
Johannesburg, South Africa – Midnight
The sky over Johannesburg was a thick blanket of storm clouds, the distant rumble of thunder echoing through the industrial outskirts. The Black Diamond Syndicate was at the height of its power—running illegal mining, weapons smuggling, and human trafficking operations under the radar of law enforcement.
But tonight, that would change.
The Sovereigns were coming.
Inside a dimly lit warehouse near the outskirts of the city, a deal was taking place. Kabelo “Ghost” Radebe, the ruthless kingpin of the Black Diamond Syndicate, leaned over a metal table stacked with millions of rand in dirty cash. Across from him, a Russian arms dealer unzipped a duffel bag, revealing an arsenal of untraceable weapons—assault rifles, sniper rounds, explosives. Enough to arm an entire militia.
“You get your shipment. I get my payment.” The Russian’s voice was thick with an accent, his eyes scanning the room warily. Something felt off.
Ghost smirked, grabbing an AK-47 from the bag and inspecting it like a man admiring a piece of art. “You do good business, comrade,” he said, loading a magazine with a loud click. “But tell me, how do I know you’re not screwing me?”
The Russian let out a tense chuckle. “You think I would try to cheat the Ghost?” His eyes darted around. Something wasn’t right.
And he was right. The Sovereigns were already inside.
⸻
INFILTRATION – THE SOVEREIGNS MOVE IN
Outside, Lex and her team moved like shadows. Angela was perched on a rooftop, lining up shots with her suppressed sniper rifle. Shawn, Faith, and Mel were positioned