Mbinguni | Black Author

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Storyteller at Heart

Celestial Holmes, known by the pseudonym Mbinguni, is a renowned author and multifaceted professional. With a background in computer programming and 15 years of experience as an Instructional Designer, Celestial has seamlessly transitioned into the realm of writing. Under the banner of NEW Reads Publications, her debut novel, "Looking for Hope," captivated readers worldwide and has earned a prestigious 5-star rating on Amazon and GoodReads. Celestial's talent and dedication have been acknowledged through distinguished fellowships, including the 2022 Hurston Wright Screenwriting Fellowship, 2023 & 2024 Kimbilio Fellowship, and the 2024 Community of Writers Workshop.

In addition to her work as an author, Celestial is also known for crafting compelling narratives as a copywriter for various companies. She is also a celebrated freelance writer and celebrity interviewer for BlackGirlNerds.com, where she shares her unique perspectives on diverse topics. Furthermore, Celestial is widely recognized as a co-host on the immensely popular "Watch Dem Thrones" podcast, affiliated with the esteemed platform Black with No Chaser.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and adventure, Celestial pursues various hobbies, including archery, horseback riding, and scuba diving. Born and raised in Fernandina Beach, FL, she attributes her passion for storytelling to her grandparents, whose love for reading, film, and television inspired her from an early age.

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LOOKING FOR HOPE

January 26th, 2021

"Grief has a way of cementing our feet to the ground wherever we're standing when it hits us. It takes hard work to get unstuck from that place, but we have to be willing to dig in." - Mouse

In this coming-of-age tale, Mbinguni weaves a narrative about Hannah “Mouse” Maynard and her transformation from a shy, quiet, girl into a strong and assertive woman.

At 7-years-old, Mouse experiences a tragedy that forces her to face the evils of the world and leave behind everything she’s ever known. With their home destroyed, Mouse and her father travel from Maplewood, Georgia to Virginia and Michigan confronting their past as they move into their future.

Mouse encounters women along the way who help her find the strength to survive and thrive against all she's seen. Through these bonds and their fierce protection, Mouse not only finds her voice but a renewed sense of hope.

"I’ve been working on this novel for quite some time now, and I can’t wait for you to read it. This book started out very differently, but Mouse took over and told her story in her own way."

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"...she has a coterie of women looking out for her who quickly become like family—a theme that the author deftly evokes throughout the book."

"...quietly moving and beautifully rendered through fine dialogue and descriptions."

— Kirkus Reviews

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"What a stunning debut! Mbinguni writes with a sure hand and a pitch-perfect ear. And her heart for the world and the people she creates is true.

Mbinguni's novel has you saying, 'Oh my goodness, then what!?' Watch her. Mbinguni is a writer of achievement and promise."

Tina McElroy Ansa
-Author of Baby of the Family

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"Far from your typical coming-of-age story, Mbinguni's beautiful debut novel, Looking for Hope, will take you on a nail-biting journey guaranteed to leave you weeping, appalled, enthralled and breathless. Prepare to be a captive audience swept back in time by the unthinkable shattering of her young heroine's life. Yet, you will find in Hope a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, and a unique celebration of the gift of survival and perseverance."